Day tour of Kandy
This historic Buddhist monument, widely known as Senkadagalapura, was the final capital of the Sinhala rulers, whose patronage allowed the Dinahala culture to thrive for more than 2,500 years until the British takeover of Sri Lanka in 1815. It is also the location of the Temple of the Tooth Relic (the holy tooth of Buddha), a popular pilgrimage site. A day trip to Kandy may be scheduled from either Colombo or the South Coast, and we recommend leaving Colombo at 7 a.m. or the South Coast at 6 a.m. This allows you to make the most of your day excursion while avoiding traffic.
Locations covered
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – The Wildlife Department of Sri Lanka created the Elephant Orphanage in 1975 on a 25-acre plot of land around 90 kilometers from Colombo. The orphanage’s objective and general mission is to offer care and protection to many of Sri Lanka’s orphaned elephants found in the jungle as a result of habitat destruction and poaching. It has become a big tourist attraction over the years, allowing tourists to see and even feed or bathe the Elephants.
- Kandy city tour – This is the country’s second biggest city and one of the greatest spots to visit if you want to get away from the noise and bustle of Colombo. Kandy is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site and is wonderfully tucked in the highlands. It also holds the world-renowned Kandy Perahera, which has been held for over 1500 years.
- Kandy Temple – The temple, known locally as the Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a sacred site of prayer for all Therawada Buddhists in Sri Lanka and across the world. It was constructed within the royal palace compound, which houses Lord Buddha’s solitary remaining relic. The relic was crucial in local politics in ancient times, and it was thought that anybody who possessed the tooth relic had the authority to dominate the land. For these reasons, the ancient Kings made considerable efforts to keep it safe from outside invasion.
- Royal Botanical Gardens – The botanical gardens, which are located near the Mahaweli River, are said to date back to 1371. (the longest in Sri Lanka). The garden has about 4000 plant varieties and receives over 2 million visitors each year. This breathtaking site will delight your senses.
- Kandy view point – Climb the hill near Kandy Lake to reach a renowned tourist destination with one of the greatest vistas on the island. Prepare to be surrounded by a big number of peddlers selling various types of souvenirs. Visitors may enjoy spectacular views of the lake and Kandy from this fantastic vantage point.
- Spice Gardens of Matale – A fantastic opportunity to sample Sri Lanka’s world-renowned spices, with aromas of cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, and much more filling your senses. Visitors are transported back in time to an age-old spice business that drew many international traders to Sri Lanka.
- Free visit to a gem Shop / wood Carving and batik Shop – Sri Lanka is world famous for its amazing variety of precious and semi-precious gem stones. The country is also home to fantastic wood carvers and batik designers that create incredible handicrafts that will no doubt bring back memories of your stay here.
Inclusions
- Transport to Kandy from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
- Entrance fees to: Pinnawala / Kandy Temple / Dance Show / Botanical Gardens
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Galle
Galle, around 116 kilometers from Colombo, is a unique treasure of a town in Sri Lanka’s southern area. The old Galle Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also located in the town, making it a popular destination for everyone who appreciates the beach and sea. The area provides a multitude of gorgeous views and activities for every enthusiastic tourist. A day trip of Galle may be organized from either Colombo or the South Coast, and we recommend departing from Colombo at 8 a.m. or the South Coast at 9 a.m. This allows you to make the most of your day excursion while avoiding traffic.
Locations covered
- Galle Fort – This fortified city is regarded as the throbbing center of Galle’s history. It was erected by the Portuguese after the city was taken from the Sinhala Kings in the 16th century. Later, in the 17th century, the Dutch overcame the Portuguese, capturing and expanding the Fort. It is a UNESCO World Heritage monument that illustrates the extraordinary fusion of European and South Asian civilizations.
- Madhu River – A river safari on this popular river is a must for any nature lover. It flows through a unique landscape, surrounded by swampy marsh lands rich with mangrove forests, thus creating a large number of islands that enrich the eco-system, forming a beautiful wetland filled with a wide variety of animal species.
- Turtle hatchery- Visit the Turtle Hatchery in Galle to become a nature fighter and learn more about sea turtle protection. It rescues turtles who have become entangled in fishing nets or have been killed for flesh.
- Unawatuna Beach – One of the top beach spots in Sri Lanka and the world, the bay is surrounded by a reef and therefore a safe place to swim and snorkel. This is a must-see place for everyone who enjoys the sun, the sea, and having a good time.
- Stilt Fisherman in Weligama – This form of fishing is unique to Sri Lanka and was once a traditional manner of fishing that is being used today. The fishermen are seated across a wooden bar known as a “Petta,” which is attached to a rope tied to a vertical pole driven into the sand.
Inclusions
- Transport to Galle from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
- Entrance fees to: Madhu River Boat Ride / Turtle Hatchery
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Colombo
This bustling metropolis serves as the country’s capital and financial center, as well as the focus of all modern-day activity. It has excellent restaurants, retail centers, and an exciting nightlife. Nobody remembers how the city received its name. The name is derived from the coconut palm, according to popular belief. Whatever the narrative, any modern tourist will find much to see and do in Colombo. A day trip of the city may be booked from either Colombo or the South Coast and takes roughly 5 hours to accomplish.
Locations covered
- Kelaniya Rajamaha Viaharaya -This temple, located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Colombo, is one of the most valuable temples in the country. It is also said that Lord Buddha came here to resolve a quarrel between two kings competing for the crown. The shrine, which is located on a tiny ridge near the Kelani River, is historically and religiously significant to all Buddhists.
- Gangarama Temple — Built in the late 1800s, this temple combines contemporary style with cultural expression. It is very important to all Buddhists, and the shrine comprises a variety of spectacular buildings. It is located not far from Beira Lake on a tract of ground that was previously marshy.
- Manning Market – The Pettah Market, also known as Manning Market, is an open market in the Colombo neighborhood of Pettah, Sri Lanka. The Khan Clock Tower, a large landmark in the center of a roundabout, marks the ceremonial entry to the Pettah Market. At the end of Pettah lies Sea Street, Sri Lanka’s gold market, where people from all over the country come to buy jewellery. It is a lengthy boulevard lined with jewellery stores, with hundreds of them adjacent to one another. In addition, there are a few jewellery stores on Main Street Gaspa Junction.
- Fort – This is Colombo’s core commercial or financial area, and it is home to many wonderful corporations, hotels, government agencies, and even eateries. The region became notable in the 16th century as the site of the first Portuguese landings, which established it as an important commercial base. In order to extend their dominance throughout the nation, the invaders established a fortified fortress and harbour in the area.
- B.M.I.C.H. -The Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall is a conference facility in Colombo that was built in the early 1970s. The center was a gift from the People’s Republic of China in commemoration of Mr. Solomon Dias Bandaranaike, one of Sri Lanka’s late Prime Ministers. Many of the country’s high-profile events are staged here.
- Independence Square – The Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence from British control in 1948. It was constructed on the site of the ceremonial event, and at the top of the monument is a statue of the country’s first Prime Minister, Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake, known as the “Father of the Nation.”
- Galle Face Green — This is a 12-acre oceanfront urban park in the centre of Colombo that spans roughly 1600 feet down the shore. Sir Henry George Ward, the British Governor at the time, laid it out in 1859. The Galle Face Green was utilized for horse racing and as a golf course back then. Football, cricket, polo, rugby, and other sports were played here.
- Old Parliament Building – This Neo-Baroque-style building was built during the time when the British ruled the country and was the idea of Sir Henry McCallum, to house the Parliamentary Council of Ceylon. It is located in Colombo Fort, facing the sea and is in close vicinity to the President’s House. The building kept the country’s legislature for 53 years until the new parliamentary compound was opened at Sri Jayawardenepura in 1983.
Inclusions
- Transport to Colombo from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is the most visited town in the hill area, and the British who conquered Sri Lanka fell in love with the scenery, naming it “Little England.” This is the ideal place for both locals and tourists looking to escape the heat and bustle of Colombo. It is studded with colonial buildings and scenic beauty. It is straightforward to book a day excursion to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo or the South Coast. It is strongly encouraged that we depart for the highlands at 5.30 a.m. from Colombo or 5 a.m. from the South Coast.
Locations covered
- Tea Factory and Tea Plantation – Nuwara Eliya is well-known for its tea production, and you may enjoy visiting a tea plantation while inhaling the wonderful fragrances of genuine Sri Lankan tea at a well-known tea factory.
- Ramboda Falls is the 11th tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and the 729th highest waterfall in the world. It is not far from Nuwara Eliya and is a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
- Lake Gregory – Sir William Gregory created the lake in 1873 from a marshy region at the foot of the little hills that border the town. The reservoir is located in the middle of town and was built to make more area accessible for Nuwara Eliya’s growth.
- Victoria Park – Originally the Hakgala Botanical Garden’s study field, the Park was formed with the planting of its first tree, an oak, by a visiting German Princess. However, it was renamed Victoria Park in 1897 to honour Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The Nanu Oya River flows through the park, forming a series of tiny lakes that serve as a safe refuge for uncommon bird species. As a result, it is a very popular tourist site.
- Seetha Amman Hindu Temple is a Hindu temple in Seetha Amman. The shrine is around 5 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya and is said to be the location where King Ravana imprisoned Sita. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, this was also the location where she prayed every day for Rama to come and save her.
- Old Post Office – Located in the centre of the town, this post office is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka. The Tudor-style, red-brick structure with a clock spire, was built in 1894 by the British. In 2012 changes were made to make the former living quarters of the Post Master on the upper floor, to accommodate tourists
Inclusions
- Transport to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Yala National Park
Yala National Park is undeniably one of the most popular in Sri Lanka. It is the country’s second largest and is famous for having the greatest proportion of leopards in the world. It covers approximately 979 square kilometers and is well-known not only for its leopard population, but also for the incredible variety of animals that call it home. It is highly recommended that we leave by 6.30am if you are staying in Negombo or Colombo, or by 7.30am if you are staying on the Southern Coast, in order to experience all of these unforgettable memories.
Locations covered
- Yala National Park – Located approximately 300km’s from Colombo and about 170km’s from Galle, Yala National Park is a nature lover’s dream destination. The park contains five blocks, two of which are open to the public. The park is rich with all kinds of animals from leopards to wild boar, elephants, crocodiles and water buffalo, to even a huge variety of birds.
- Galle City Tour – This seaside town located approximately 116km’s from Colombo and is a very popular destination for anyone who loves the sand and sea. Galle is a town rich with history, great sceneries and activities for any eager traveller. A place where the past and modern life, live in relative harmony and an exciting place to make to wonderful memories.
Inclusions
- Transport to Yala from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
- Entrance Fees to Yala National Park inclusive of the Jeep Hire
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Sigiriya & Dambulla
Anyone interested in archeology will love this place. Dambulla, a tiny village in Sri Lanka’s North Central district, is home to the “8th Wonder of the World,” an ancient attraction. After killing his father to capture the kingdom, King Kashyapa is claimed to have erected the Sigiriya rock stronghold in the 5th century A.D. Any keen tourist will be enthralled by the trek to the summit of Sigiriya, which is rich in history and wonderful anecdotes.
Locations covered
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress – A massive rock fortress and King Kashyapa’s stronghold that demonstrates the extraordinary architecture and ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankans. The moat that surrounds the stronghold, as well as the walk to the top, will undoubtedly astound you.
- Dambulla Cave Temple – This UNESCO World Heritage site is Sri Lanka’s biggest and best-preserved ancient cave temple complex. There are around 80 known caverns in the vicinity, some of which include old statues and murals.
- Tour of Hiriwadunna Village – Unplug from electronics and take a stroll around this charming village. Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s countryside and travel back in time to experience the traditional village lifestyle.
- Garden of Spices – A chance to sample Sri Lanka’s world-famous spices, where smells of Cinnamon, Pepper, Cardamom and so much more, will fill your senses. Visitors are taken back in time to an age old industry of spice production, which attracted many foreign merchants to Sri Lanka.
Inclusions
- Transport to Sigiriya & Dambulla from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
- Entrance Fees: Sigiriya / Dambulla
- 01 Authentic Hiriwaduna Village Experience
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Kithulgala (White Water Rafting)
Famed for being one of the wettest locations in Sri Lanka, the small town of Kithulgala is approximately 70km’s from Colombo and is dotted with lush forests and rivers, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure junkies. It is also the white-water rafting capital of the island and is celebrated for being the backdrop for the Academy Award-winning movie, “Bridge on the River Kwai”, which was filmed on the Kelani River near the town.
Locations covered
- Kithulgala White Water Rafting – You can be a hardened adventurer or a traveller who is new to the experience. However, no visit to Sri Lanka is complete without a heart pumping, adrenaline-fueled white water rafting experience in Kithulgala. You will be equipped with modern rafts and safety gear to ensure your well-being at all times. All that, coupled with some stunning tropical sceneries, will make it an unforgettable moment for any eager traveler.
Inclusions
- Transport to Kithulgala from Colombo / South Coast and back
- Lunch on tour
- 01 Round of White Water Rafting
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Sinharaja Rain Forest Trekking
Trek across gorgeous trails and glistening streams while admiring mother nature’s lush flora. There are so many trails to explore in the forest reserve that no one would know where to begin — it’s that vast. Walking these pathways has proven to be a really intriguing and eye-opening experience, with the landscape and surroundings being magnificent – Mother Nature at her ultimate finest, some would say. When you are ready to begin on the excursion, you must have a skilled guide. They are both beneficial and important. Trekking through these woodland pathways may be an exciting adventure, but it is not for the faint of heart. It might be challenging for professional trekkers as well, so you’ll have to be patient. This tour can be arranged from Colombo or the South Coast. We would have to commence the trip at 4.00 am from Colombo and 5.00 am from the South Coast.
Locations covered
- Sinharaja Trekking – Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka’s major and only surviving virgin rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is ideal for nature enthusiasts. It is a vast region rich in biodiversity of flora and fauna, trees, endemic species of animals, birds, insects, reptiles, and more that has been classified as a global biosphere. Because the forest’s foliage is so dense, there isn’t much wildlife save for a few elephants and leopards, which are extremely unusual to witness. Engage on hiking trips through the forest that will cover all of the key sights. Because Sinharaja is a birder’s paradise with numerous bird species, you may enjoy bird watching and witness various birds.
Inclusions
- Transport to the above mentioned locations and back
- Packed Breakfast & Lunch on tour
- Entrance Fees: Sinharaja Rain Forest
- Professional Trakker
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Day tour of Anuradhapura & Wilpattu National Park
Explore Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s biggest and most celebrated. The park is approximately 130,000 hectares in size and borders three cities (Mannar, Anuradhapura, and Puttalam). It also boasts enormous Sri Lankan coasts. The park emphasizes natural fresh water lakes known as ‘Villus,’ which serve as breeding areas for animals to drink and bathe. Wilpattu is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and may be reached through jeep safaris. The greatest time to visit the park is from February to October, however there is usually a throng. You will be driven on a jeep safari around Wilpattu National Park for a day trip to see Sri Lanka’s wild species such as elephants, jackals, sloth bears, leopards, and wild buffalos.
Locations covered
- Anuradhapura – When you get in Anuradhapura early in the morning, you will first go to The Sacred Bo Tree, or Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is the seedling of the Sacred Bodhi carried by Sanghamitta, daughter of Emperor Ashoka, from the main stem of the Bodhi Tree in India, beneath which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. This sapling was given to King Devanampia Tissa, who planted it ceremoniously at this location. Then you’ll go to the Lovamahapaya, or Brazen Palace, which is a nine-story palace framed with stone pillars created by King Dutugemunu. Because of its copper or bronze tiled roof, this monument was termed ‘Brazen Palace.’ The palace’s goal was to house 1000 monks and nuns.
- Wilpattu National Park – Wilpattu Sanctuary was designated a National Park in 1938. It is located on the west coast, near to the historical city of Anuradhapura. The dry zone jungle is densely forested. Wilpattu National Park is home to several villus, or natural lakes that dot the terrain. These lakes, with the exception of two, contain rainwater and are consequently significant for both resident and migratory waterbirds. Wilpattu National Park’s past is also interesting, with ancient ruins uncovered there. A queen named “Kuweni” (regarded as the mother of the Sinhala people) is claimed to have resided at Kalli Villu. Historical evidence also indicates that Prince Saliya, King Dutugemunu’s son, survived in Wilpattu about 2,000 years ago.
Inclusions
- Transport to Anuradhapura / Wilpattu from Colombo and back
- Lunch on tour
- Entrance Fees: Anuradhapura & Wilpattu National Park
- Jeep Hire at Wilpatthu National Park
Exclusions
- Anything that is not mentioned above
Transport section
- Fine Care Tours to provide a taxi service.