Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) combines pristine beaches, rich culture, ancient temples hidden in the jungle, tea plantations, rain forests, tremendous nature reserves and Biblical scenery. All these have always been an integral part of this magical island, that lies on the coast of South - Eastern India.
Day 1: Arrival At Colombo - Transfer To Bentota
Arrive at Colombo airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to Bentota. Upon arrival at Bentota check-in to your hotel and relax for some time. Rest of the day is free for you to explore Bentota on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2: Bentota City Tour
After breakfast proceed for full day city tour of Bentota covering the Koskoda Turtle Hatchery and Maadu river. The Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda is a conservation project that is helping to sustain and enhance the stability of sea turtles.You can visit the Hatchery, observe its activities and learn about these fascinating creatures. The Maadu River offers very popular boat trips down the river where you can arrange to visit temples, cinnamon estates and other nature resorts. This area is a preserved wild life sanctuary. You can also enjoy water sports at Bentota's beaches (at extra cost). On completion return back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 3: Bentota - Colombo
After breakfast you will be transferred from Bentota to Colombo. Upon reaching Colombo check-in to your hotel. Relax for some time.
Day 4: Colombo City Tour
Colombo is the business and commercial center and the new capital is Sri Jayawardhanapura Kotte, only a few miles away. Colombo was only a small seaport, which came into prominence in the 16th Century with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 and the development of it as a major Harbor took place during the British period. Colombo became the capital of Sri Lanka in 1815 after Kandyan Kingdom was ceded to the British. The remains of the buildings during the period of the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule are found in every area of the city. None of the Portuguese & Dutch fortifications are found today but some of their buildings and churches could be seen in the Fort & Pettah areas. Visit Fort, the former British administrative center and military garrison, Sea Street - the Goldsmith’s quarters in the heart of Pettah, the Bazaar area where there is also a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, the Kayman’s Gate with the Belfry at the original gate to enter the Fort, the Dutch Church of Wolfendhaal dating back to 1749, Kelaniya Buddhist Temple dating to 6th C.B.C., Davatagaha Mosque, Colombo Museum and the Natural History Museum are some of the sites to be visited. Also visit the BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall), see the replica of Avukana Buddha in front and the Independence Memorial. Take out time for some shopping before returning back to your hotel.
Day 5: Colombo City Tour + Departure From Colombo
Today morning check-out from your hotel. Keep your bags in the reception and proceed for Colombo City Tour. Visit Fort, the former British administrative center and military garrison, Sea Street - the Goldsmith’s quarters in the heart of Pettah, the Bazaar area where there is also a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, the Kayman’s Gate with the Belfry at the original gate to enter the Fort, the Dutch Church of Wolfendhaal dating back to 1749, Kelaniya Buddhist Temple dating to 6th C.B.C., Davatagaha Mosque, Colombo Museum and the Natural History Museum are some of the sites to be visited. Also visit the BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall), see the replica of Avukana Buddha in front and the Independence Memorial. Once completed, you can do some shopping and later you will be transferred to the airport to catch your return flight back home.