Discover Sri Lanka
A timeless gem in the Indian Ocean. Lots of people talk about it. Many never taste it. Ancient kingdoms, Buddhist enclaves, lush rainforest, sandy beaches and elephants
Emerging from recent inner turmoil Sri Lanka is once again ready to share its splendour. Now is the time to see the gem of the Indian Ocean. An amazing blend of tropical landscapes, beach life and the austerity of a strong Buddhist culture. There are remnants of distinctive past civilisations to explore as well as one of the finest elephant sanctuaries in the world. Come with us as we unlock the secrets of this magical land
"What a trip with Global Drift! We had a wonderful Sri Lankan guide, a marvellous tour group and everyday there were surprises. From the cultural triangle through the mountains and tea plantations to the beautiful beaches in the south. We loved the food, the people were friendly and we have great photos to remind us of why we should return"
Leanne Hurley & John Mason, Australia
| 14 Day Itinerary | ||
| Departures: | 23rd November 2024 | (Saturday to Friday) |
|---|---|---|
| 30th November 2025 | (Sunday to Saturday) | |
| Price: | USD$2990 | |
***THIS TOUR CAN BE EASILY COMBINED WITH OUR BANGLADESH ENCOUNTER TOUR*** |
Day 1 - Colombo Arrival day, no activities planned however we will meet this evening for a group meeting Day 2 - Colombo to Habarana We depart by private minibus after breakfast heading for the imposing rock fortress of Sigirya where we can enjoy an invigorating climb for spectacular views. We plan to arrive in the afternoon in Habarana, our base for the next few nights perfectly located to visit the many regional sights. Time to settle into the pace of this beautifully relaxed country Day 3 - Habarana (Anuradhapura day trip) Today we visit Sri Lanka’s 1st Kingdom Anuradhapura, some say the most important of Sri Lanka’s ancient cities. On arrival we enjoy a cycle tour of the ruins and the ancient cities sights. We will also visit Mihintale which is feted as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and one of the most spiritually significant sites in the country Day 4 - Habarana (Safari and Polonnaruwa day trip) This morning we depart early for a Jeep Safari in one of the nearby parks. The location will depend on seasonal rains and factors relating to the movement of the ‘residents. Options include Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park or the compact Hurulu Eco Park. We try our luck spotting Elephants and other Sri Lankan wildlife. We continue on travelling to the 2nd historical capital of Polonnaruwa. We experience a sightseeing tour of the ancient city, another testimony to the strength and foresight of the medieval kingdoms. We return to our base in Habarana late afternoon Day 5 - Habarana to Kandy We depart south today to nearby Dambulla where we visit the great Cave Temple. There are many separate caves containing over 150 Buddha images. Continuing on we are in for a very special local treat enjoying a village visit experience including transport from the past and present. Ox cart, local boat and auto rickshaw bring us to a remote country location where we can participate in a village cooking experience helping to prepare and consume local delights grown in the fields nearby. From here we set off for Kandy, stopping en route at the fertile grounds at Matale to take look at a spice garden. We arrive in Kandy late afternoon after a full and amazing day Day 6 - Kandy This morning we have an opportunity to see the largest population of abandoned or orphaned elephants in the world at the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage. We visit the temple of the Tooth and enjoy an evening dance show to cap off a full yet rewarding day. You may have time to take a stroll amongst some of the rare specimens at the Botanical Gardens Day 7 - Kandy to Nuwara Eliya We take a step back in time today as we board a local train heading for the hills. Nuwara Eliya retains much of its British Colonial Heritage and we see where it all began with a visit to a Tea Plantation Day 8 - Nuwara Eliya Today we set out with a packed lunch to explore the Horton Plains on foot. At times reminiscent of a Scottish moor, but also compared to African savannah. Sri Lanka’s highest and most isolated plateau is certainly Mother Nature’s gift Day 9 - Nuwara Eliya to Yala National Park Leaving the hills behind we head south east to the famous Yala National Park which covers an area of nearly 130,000 hectares and consists of forests, grasslands and lagoons. It is home to many varieties of mammal and bird species and among its more famous residents are the world’s biggest concentration of leopards and majestic elephants. After settling into our stunning accommodation, we will enjoy an evening safari and hope to spot these beautiful creatures in their natural environment Day 10 - Yala National Park There are 2 game drives planned today. One in the early morning as the sun rises over the Park and a second late afternoon when animals are on the move to their places of rest.
During the day we can relax at out lodge and soak up the remote wilds of Sri Lanka. Day 11 - Yala to Galle There is time this morning for an optional second safari for those wishing to rise early and seek out the animals as they wake for the day. When we are finally able to agree to depart the Park, we have a leisurely drive along the south coast to Galle. We arrive late afternoon and enjoy an amazing sunset on the fort walls. A city of history and mystery, our 3 nights stay here will be enchanting and memorable Day 12 - Galle We enjoy a morning walking tour around the fort and exploring the old town. From the walls we overlook the beautiful and terrible waters of the Indian Ocean. There are museums and galleries all within easy walking distance of our centrally located hotel. In the afternoon there is an option to enjoy a cooking class with a chance to learn how to make many of the best curry dishes and also the ever present ‘hoppers’
The world famous cricket ground is also worth a visit where you can stand atop the walls and observe any action on the field, one of the only places globally where you can watch an entire International cricket match for free… Day 13 - Galle to Colombo Our journey returns us to Colombo with stops on the way at the haunting Tsunami Museum and the uplifting Turtle Sanctuary. We arrive in time to perhaps explore some unexpected delights of the capital city. A farewell dinner is a good time to reminisce about our amazing journey together Day 14 - Colombo Departure day |  |
Trip Options
| Single Travellers: | Inquire | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Accommodation: | Single USD$120 | Details |
| Double USD$150 |
***THIS TOUR CAN BE EASILY COMBINED WITH OUR BANGLADESH ENCOUNTER TOUR***
Local Payment
Your Local Payment is collected by your group leader in cash at your group meeting on Day 1 of the trip and is part of your tour price. The money is spent locally on your tour.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Extra Accommodation
Pre and post trip accommodation is offered on most journeys pending availability. Please indicate in your enquiry if you require any rooms before or after your tour and the amount of nights requested.
For tours where the start and finish points are different w can assist you with your arrangements in both locations.
Single Traveller
Global Drift encourages interactive experiences for all of our travellers. As such we presume that you will be happy to share accommodation with a same sex person should you be travelling alone.
However, for those that would prefer a single room for the tour we do offer a single supplement. This also applies to single travellers who we are not able to match up.
It must be stated however that on many of our tours we stay in small family owned guesthouse accommodation. In certain instances with full groups the passenger combinations may not always allow you to enjoy a single room. Please keep this in mind when booking your single supplement. We will however, always do our best to accommodate you.
Please make your request for this service a minimum of 3 months prior to your journey.
The quoted extra payment is for the entire trip.
Single Travellers
Global Drift encourages interactive experiences for all of our travellers. As such we presume that you will be happy to share accommodation with a same sex person should you be travelling alone.
Due to the exploratory nature of this journey no single supplement is offered.
Airport Arrival Transfer
Global Drift offers an optional arrival transfer to your hotel at the quoted fee.
In your trip dossier you will receive directions on how to make your way to your starting point hotel. It is quite easy and possibly cheaper than we are able to offer it.
Should you require this service please advise us at the time of your booking.