Colombo - Habrana - Kandy - Colombo

Discover the persuasive charm of Sri Lanka, the Teardrop of India, or the Pearl of the Orient, on this short stopover that fits ideally into a longer trip around India. Explore the vibrant streets of Colombo, the capital established by the British, and then head further afield to enjoy the rich variety of birdlife that abounds across the island, while encounters with exotic creatures such as leopards spice up your exploring. Sri Lankans are unrivalled in their friendly and laidback attitudes towards visitors, and you will fall in love with the island's delicious seafood cuisine. Sri Lanka is a place that captures hearts: it evokes a special affection in its visitors that sees them returning year after year.

ITINERARY

DAY 01  COLOMBO 
On arrival you are welcomed to this tropical island by your guide and settled into your hotel. This afternoon we take a city tour to acquaint ourselves with the capital of this emerald isle. Colombo is a city with a diverse heritage. The many invaders of the island (the Tamils from South India, the Arab Moors and later, the Europeans) have all contributed to Colombo’s rich culture. Buddhism and Hinduism flourish here in harmony.

DAY 02  COLOMBO - HABRANA 
Departure by car to Habrana, visiting the Pinnawale Elephant Orphanage en route. Elephants used to be royal property on the island, and were protected from hunting accordingly. Now though, their numbers have plummeted and the island is making efforts to revive the population through programmes such as the one we find at this orphanage.   We check into the hotel and stay overnight at Habrana.

DAY 03  HABRANA - KANDY 
We take a morning excursion to the Rock Fortress of Sigirya. This is a ruined city of immense beauty and is modelled on the ancient god of wealth, Kuvera. King Kasyapa was the creator of this city, often referred to as the ‘artist’s soul’. We then continue our journey by road to kandy, and check into your hotel.

DAY 04  KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA 
Morning sightseeing tour of Kandy, visiting the famed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The Esala Peharaha festival is held here on the first full moon in July or August; if you are lucky enough to witness it you will see a fantastic procession of thousands of elephants and pilgrims. They come to honour the sacred tooth enshrined in the temple. In the afternoon we drive across terraced hills and past magnificent tea plantations on our way to Nuwara Eliya, where we transfer to your hotel.

DAY 05  NUWARA ELIYA - COLOMBO 
The rural scenery at Nuwara Eliya is nothing less than stunning. Wake in the morning to enjoy the peace and natural beauty of your surroundings before heading back to Colombo by car, where you transfer to your hotel.

DAY 06  COLOMBO  Transfer to the station or airport for your onward destination.  Tour ends.


TOUR INCLUSIONS
Accommodation on a room-only basis.
All transfers by car including pick-ups and drop-offs from station or airport.
All sight-seeing tours as specified.