UK
Hidden Treasures of Sri Lanka
16 days from £4790 per person
Route: Colombo – Makandura – Sigiriya – Thirappane – Jaffna – Trincomalee – Passikudah – Colombo
Despite Sri Lanka's undoubted popularity, certain parts of the island remain both unknown and underexplored. Starting at The Notary’s House in Makandura, initially six nights are spent in the 'cultural triangle' visiting some of the less familiar sights of this historic region including Yapahuwa, Medirigiriya, Dimbulagala, Ritigala, Aukana and Sasseruwa. Travelling north head to the city of Jaffna which is located at the northern tip of the island and a stronghold of Tamil culture then follow the island’s eastern seaboard via Trincomalee before ending in Passikudah to relax beside one of Sri Lanka’s finest beaches.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
The UNESCO-listed ancient rock fortress at Sigiriya rises majestically out of the forest and is one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised sites. In 495 AD a palace was built on the summit and the sides decorated with colourful frescoes.
An island nation, Sri Lanka’s coastline harbours many beautiful beaches. Passikudah, with its soft golden sands and pristine turquoise seas is widely considered one of Sri Lanka’s finest.
Jaffna’s history is one of contest, created as a port by the Portuguese, it was lost to the Dutch, who then lost it to the British in 1796. After independence Tamils and Sinhalese disputed the city.
CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS
01892 515966
MAKE AN ENQUIRYGuide
to Price
to Price
Pettitts guide to price for this itinerary would be £4790 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: Hidden Treasures of Sri Lanka
Meet your driver-guide as you arrive in Colombo and continue north by car to Makandura and The Notary's House where you will stay overnight. This small six bedroom boutique hotel is surrounded by large gardens, has spacious bedrooms and an enticing outdoor swimming pool. The remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax after your flight. (N)
Accommodation in Makandura: The Notary’s House
Accommodation in Sigiriya: Jetwing Vil Uyana (or similar)
Accommodation in Sigiriya: Jetwing Vil Uyana (or similar)
Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's oldest wildlife reserve, is located to the north-west of Thirappane and can either be visited on day trips from Thirappane or incorporated en-route between Thirappane and Jaffna. Should you wish to incorporate Wilpattu National Park into your itinerary please speak to one of our travel consultants who will be delighted to advise you further.
Accommodation in Thirappane: Ulagalla Resort (or similar)
Accommodation in Thirappane: Ulagalla Resort (or similar)
After breakfast, leave Thirappane and drive north to Jaffna. Jaffna, at the northern tip of the island, is a stronghold of Hindu Tamil culture and this has shaped the make-up of the city, and surrounding region. Slowly re-opening to foreign tourism, the city remains very much 'off the beaten track' and provides an interesting alternative to the busier south. (B)
Accommodation in Jaffna: Jetwing Jaffna
Upgrade option: Jetwing Mahesa Bhawan
Today explore Jaffna with your driver-guide. The colourful Kandaswamy Temple is a particular highlight and is one of the most important Hindu temple complexes on the island. Believed to date from the 10th century, the currently structure is nearly two hundred years old and hosts the spectacular yearly 25 day chariot festival. Also visit Jaffna Fort, one of the island's oldest and largest, the interesting archaeological museum, St Mary's Cathedral and the church of St James. (B)
Accommodation in Jaffna: Jetwing Jaffna
Upgrade option: Jetwing Mahesa Bhawan
Today follow Sri Lanka's east coast to Trincomalee. One of the earliest Indian Tamil settlements in Sri Lanka, the coming of the colonial era and Trincomalee's magnificent natural harbour combined to make this port city one of the subcontinent's political and economic powerhouses. Later enter Fort Frederick, see Wellesley House and visit the colourful Konesvaram Temple. (B)
Accommodation in Trincomalee: Chaaya Blu Trincomalee (or similar)
Alternative option in Kuchchaveli: Jungle Bay Resort
Leaving Trincomalee, today drive to Sri Lanka's beautiful east coast. Located to the north of the city of Batticaloa, first landing point of the Dutch in 1602, Passikudah has one of the island's finest beaches of golden sand and gentle crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. (B)
Accommodation in Passikudah: Maalu Maalu Resort
Alternative option: Uga Bay Resort
Over the next two days relax and enjoy Passikudah. The Maalu Maalu Resort is located directly on the beach and has a large, welcoming swimming pool and its own Ayurvedic spa. For the more active, cycle or walk to some of the small neighbouring fishing villages, dive or snorkel the virgin coral reefs or visit the Portuguese fort in Batticaloa. (B)
Accommodation in Passikudah: Maalu Maalu Resort
Alternative option: Uga Bay Resort
Today transfer to Batticaloa Airport and fly to Colombo. (B)
Accommodation in Colombo: The Wallawwa (or similar)
**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
What's included
- International flights from the UK
- Domestic flights
- Private car with English speaking driver-guide
- Wildlife viewing with local naturalist
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's not included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
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.
