UK
Sri Lanka and the Maldives - Culture and Relaxation
17 days from £4360 per person
Route: Colombo – Sigiriya – Kandy – Galle – Kotugoda – Maldives
Few places have the heritage and cultural diversity of Sri Lanka. This small tear-drop shaped island at the southern tip of India is a tropical paradise and plenty can be seen in a relatively short amount of time. This journey focusses on the many different landscapes and histories of the island. There is an exploration of the ancient sites of the ‘Cultural Triangle’ whilst there are also visits to the charming hill capital of Kandy and the UNESCO protected fort at Galle. Sri Lanka naturally combines well with the neighbouring Maldives and this journey end with seven nights of relaxation at the Meeru Island Resort and Spa.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
The variety of archaeological remains and well-preserved historic sites in Sri Lanka’s ‘Cultural Triangle’ is astonishing with highlights including Anuradhapura and Sigiriya.
Sited on a promontory that juts into the sea, 400 year old Galle Fort is an important UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history entwined with Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial rule.
Located to the north-east of Male, an hour from the airport, the Meeru Island Resort and Spa is blessed with colourful coral reefs, pristine sandy beaches and enticing warm tropical seas.
CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS
01892 515966
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Pettitts guide to price for this itinerary would be £4360 per person
The exact cost of this itinerary will vary depending on the season of travel, standard of accommodation, flight class, activities included and the date the booking is made. Please speak to one of our experienced travel specialists who will create a completely tailor-made and personalized quotation based on your requirements and budget.
** The above price is based on two adults travelling together in economy, sharing accommodation, travel based on low season for this destination and advance booking approximately nine months prior to travel**
Itinerary: Sri Lanka and the Maldives - Culture and Relaxation
Arrive into Colombo where you will meet your driver-guide and begin the journey north-east towards Kandalama which is located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s acclaimed ‘Cultural Triangle’. This region is Sri Lanka's cultural centre and encompasses no fewer than five UNESCO World Heritage Sites including ancient cities and monasteries to rock-cut caves and free-standing Buddhas. Stay for three nights in the Cultural Triangle. (B)
Accommodation in the Cultural Triangle: Heritance Kandalama Hotel
Upgrade option: Jetwing Vil Uyana
Over the next two days explore the region with your driver-guide. Highlights include Sri Lanka's first capital Anuradhapura and nearby Mihintale. Explore the wonderful archaeological remains at Polonnaruwa, the island's medieval capital between the 11th and 13th centuries, and the astonishing frescoes and monumental rock fortress of Sigiriya. Time permitting, the Aukana Buddha and jungle-clad remains at Ritigala are well worth visiting as is Minneriya National Park, home to a large resident elephant population. (B)
Accommodation in the Cultural Triangle: Heritance Kandalama Hotel
Upgrade option: Jetwing Vil Uyana
Today leave Kandalama and begin the drive to Kandy. On the way stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dambulla to visit the richly painted caves of this important temple complex. Dating, at their earliest, from the 1st century BC, the frescoes and sculptures at Dambulla portray scenes from both religious and secular life. Later continue to Kandy, capital of the highlands and best known for the opulent Temple of Tooth. Later visit the temple where Buddha's tooth relic is housed. (B)
Accommodation in Kandy: The Kandy House
Alternative accommodation: Jetwing Kandy Gallery
Kandy is an attractive city of palaces, parks and gardens. The centre of town is known for its 19th century architecture and this morning spend time at the colourful bazaar and interesting Kandy National Museum. In the afternoon visit the magnificent Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, a former royal pleasure garden but converted into its current form in 1821. With over 4,000 labelled species, Peradeniya is one of the finest botanical gardens in the subcontinent. (B)
Accommodation in Kandy: The Kandy House
Alternative accommodation: Jetwing Kandy Gallery
After breakfast leave Kandy and drive south to the coastal city of Galle. Once the chief port of British Ceylon, today Galle is divided into two parts – the modern, bustling centre and the historic, colonial fort. The charming old town – now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site – was visited by Ibn Batuta during the 14th century and was subsequently controlled by the Portuguese, Dutch and British who finally captured the city in 1796. (B)
Accommodation in Galle: Fort Bazaar
Upgrade option: Amangalla
Today explore Galle’s old town and fort with your driver-guide. This important world heritage site is one of the best examples of a fortified city built by Europeans in Asia and is a wonderful place to explore on foot. The colonial architecture, bastions and city gates are incredibly well-preserved and highlights include the ramparts, Dutch Reformed Church which dates to 1754, the pretty old post office, All Saints Church built in 1868 and the old Arab Quarter. (B)
Accommodation in Galle: Fort Bazaar
Upgrade option: Amangalla
After breakfast leave Galle and follow the coast back towards Colombo. Stay overnight in Kotugoda at The Wallawwa which is ideally located close to the international airport. (B)
Accommodation in Kotugoda: The Wallawwa
This morning you will be met and transferred to Colombo Airport for the short flight to the Maldives. On arrival at Male Airport you will be taken by speedboat to the Meeru Island Resort and Spa where you will stay for the next seven nights. (B/L/D)
Accommodation in the Maldives: Meeru Island Resort and Spa (or similar)
Upgrade option: Baros Maldives (or similar)
Alternative upgrade option: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort
At leisure to relax and enjoy the Meeru Island Resort and Spa. (B/L/D)
Accommodation in the Maldives: Meeru Island Resort and Spa (or similar)
Upgrade option: Baros Maldives (or similar)
Alternative upgrade option: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort
**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
What's included
- International flights from the UK
- Private car with English speaking driver-guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
- Return speedboat transfers in the Maldives
What's not included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
Guide to Price
The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.
