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Arrive in Sri Lanka. Transfer to the Capital City Colombo 20 kms south west of the airport. Enjoy a fresh fruit welcome drink on arrival and our representative will meet in the hotel at a pre-arranged time to provide a formal brief on the destination, and guide you through the rest of the program. In the afternoon visit the highlights of the city. The Fort which takes its name from the former military garrison during Colonial rule, Pettah which is outside the Fort and a bustling bazaar for wholesale traders, Cinnamon gardens which was the residential areas for the rich and elite, Independence Square built to commemorate the country;s independence in 1948, the old Parliament which is now the Presidential Secretariat and Town Hall a replica of state buildings in the USA. Overnight is at the plush Cinnamon Grand Hotel.
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Drive to Pinnawela and visit the Elephant Orphanage established two decades ago. Pinnawela was formed to care for orphaned elephants and today has a herd of over 50. Visit the orphanage in time during feeding and bathing which is an enjoyable spectacle. Proceed to Sigiriya and visit the ruin of the rock citadel of King Kashyapa, built in 700 AD and has a niche in the history of the region. Overnight at the Amaya Lake Resort Dambulla, a serene location by the tranquil waters of the Kandalama tank.
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Early departure to Minneriya and in an open topped jeep visit the Wildlife Park which is popular for its herd of wild elephants. Proceed to Polonnaruwa, the 2nd capital of ancient Ceylon and famous for its “Sea of Parakrama” the vast man-made reservoir built by a famous Sinhala King who was known for his courage, valour and contribution to the country’s heritage. Visit a traditional Polonnaruwa wood carver at his craft just outside the ruined city walls. Overnight at Amaya Lake Resort Dambulla.
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Drive to Kandy the last capital of Sinhala Kings before the island was annexed to the British Empire in 1815. Enroute visit a wood carving centre and spice garden in Matale. Afternoon visit of Kandy including the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Temple where the Tooth Relic of the Buddha is enshrined and enjoy an evening spectacle of traditional folklore dances which originate from historical times. Overnight at the elegant Mahaweli Reach Hotel situated by the lazily flowing waters of the islands longest river.
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Drive along scenic winding routes through lush green tea-clad slopes towards Nuwara Eliya, referred to as “little England” during past era’s due to its cool salubrious climate reminiscent of the Scottish hills in the United Kingdom. Enjoy the spectacles of cascading waterfalls, busy tea-pluckers on the vast tea-estates and visit a tea factory is included to see Ceylon’s famous tea processed and to enjoy a warm cup of the unblended brew. In Nuwara Eliya unwind in the gardens of the hotel or explore the town on foot. Overnight is at the Colonial Grand Hotel.
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Leaving Nuwara Eliya, drive through scenic roads down to Colombo. Enroute stop at the scenic town of Kitulgala at the foothills of the central mountain range and enjoy a nature walk. Proceed to the coastal town of Kalutara and arrive at the deluxe Royal Palms Resort for overnight stay.
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Relax at the Royal Palms. The resort has an excellent spa facility offering a rejuvenating experience of Balinese massages, aromatic therapy and an outdoors jacuzzi pavilion.
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Departure to the airport and your return flight home or extend your stay in Sri Lanka either to relax by the beach at a resort of your choice or visit places not seen on your tour.
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