Description
Sri Lanka & Maldives: A Journey of Discovery
- Embark on a journey to the historic city of Anuradhapura.
- Ascend Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a majestic citadel perched on a towering stone pillar.
- Delve into the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and be awed by the Dambulla Cave Temple’s exquisite Buddhist imagery.
- Dive into the world of Sri Lankan spices and pay homage at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
- Retreat to the Maldives for a five-night stay on a serene tropical isle.
- Indulge in the plethora of activities and comprehensive all-inclusive offerings at your Maldivian resort.
- Snorkel among the effervescent coral reefs, home to a myriad of vibrant sea creatures.
This splendid 10-night escapade marries the cultural treasures of Sri Lanka with the serene beauty of the Maldives. Spend the first half of your tour uncovering Sri Lanka’s cherished landmarks, followed by a tranquil sojourn on the Maldives’ immaculate atolls. Explore the verdant ruins of Sri Lanka and submerge in the Indian Ocean’s azure waters, teeming with colourful coral gardens and diverse aquatic life.
Arrival in Sri Lanka:
Upon your arrival at Colombo’s airport, a local liaison will greet you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel via a private car. The picturesque drive to Sigiriya/Habarana is an estimated 4-hour journey.
Lodging Options:
Standard: Kassapa Lions Rock Hotel, Sigiriya
Superior: Habarana Village by Cinnamon, Habarana
Discovering Anuradhapura:
Embark on a tour of Anuradhapura, the ancient inaugural capital of Sri Lanka, dating back to the 5th century B.C. Begin with the Sri-Mahabodhi, a venerable fig tree, a direct descendant of the Buddha’s original “tree of enlightenment,” believed to be over 2,200 years old.
Next, explore the historic Lovamahapaya, or “Brazen Palace,” constructed in the 2nd century B.C., featuring 1,600 stone pillars, remnants of a bygone monastic abode. Proceed to the celebrated Ruwanweli Seya, Anuradhapura’s most renowned dagoba. Visit the Samadhi Buddha statue, a masterful representation of the Buddha in meditative repose. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Isurumuniya rock temple, Kuttam Pokuna, and the Thuparama Dagoba, the island’s oldest dagoba, which houses a sacred relic of the Buddha.
Accommodations: Standard: Kassapa Lions Rock Hotel
Superior: Habarana Village by Cinnamon
MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast
Journey to Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa:
Commence your day with a prepared breakfast and set out to the remarkable Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This 5th-century marvel rises 600 feet on a solitary rock column, dominating the terrain. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features an ancient pathway ascending to the summit, passing through what were once the jaws of a stone lion—of which only the paws remain. At the pinnacle, the ruins of King Kashyapa I’s royal stronghold await exploration.
Following Sigiriya, your adventure leads to Polonnaruwa, the medieval successor to Anuradhapura as Sri Lanka’s capital from the 10th to 12th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the Royal Palace complex, four colossal Buddha figures carved from a single granite block, and remnants of the island’s Hindu heritage, including Shiva Temples and myriad Hindu deity statues amidst the ruins.
Lodging Choices: Standard: Kassapa Lions Rock Hotel Superior: Habarana Village by Cinnamon
MEALS PROVIDED: Breakfast
Venture to Dambulla & Matale:
Post-breakfast, embark on a drive towards the storied city of Kandy, nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, a trip taking roughly 3 hours.
On your way, stop by the Dambulla Cave Temple, a sanctuary adorned with over 150 Buddhist statues and mural masterpieces. Additionally, explore the Matale Spice Gardens, a haven of diverse, fragrant spices that thrive in the island’s lush climate.
Lodging Choices: Standard: Hotel Topaz Superior: Cinnamon Citadel Hotel
MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast
Today’s itinerary includes a visit to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa. This temple is a pivotal Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, enshrining the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
Conclude your day with an enchanting Kandyan Dance Cultural Show, a spectacle of vibrant costumes, dynamic acrobatics, and rhythmic music.
Accommodation Options:
- Standard: Hotel Topaz
- Superior: Cinnamon Citadel Hotel
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Departure to the Maldives:
After your stay in Kandy, you will proceed to Colombo, setting the stage for your trip to the Maldives. The picturesque drive back to Colombo is estimated to last around 4 hours.
Upon arrival in the Maldives, a brief domestic flight and a subsequent speedboat ride will whisk you away to the seclusion of your island resort.
Resort Accommodation: Lily Beach Resort & Spa
INCLUDED:Breakfast
Leisure Time:
Enjoy the all-inclusive experience at your resort, where you have the freedom to indulge in the exceptional amenities, delectable culinary experiences, and an array of activities at your own pace.
Whether you’re basking by the pool or snorkeling amongst the vibrant coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offers an unparalleled slice of heaven.
Resort Stay: Lily Beach Resort & Spa
INCLUDED: All-Inclusive
INCLUDED: Breakfast
Leaving the Maldives:
Bid adieu to the idyllic island retreat as you embark on your departure. Traverse back to Male’s international airport via a picturesque speedboat ride and a brief domestic flight.
INCLUDED: All-Inclusive
Displayed prices are starting ‘from’ rates per person, applicable primarily for travel during the low season, unless indicated otherwise. The availability of tour features and flight seating is dynamic, influencing the ultimate cost. The presented lead-in price serves merely as an indicative benchmark.
For a customised quote that caters specifically to you and your group, we invite you to consult with our travel specialists without delay.
Deluxe Low Season 1st September 2024 – 30th September 2024
Prices begin at £3,299 per person
Inclusions:
- Accommodation
- Transfers
- specified activities Round-trip international
- domestic air travel
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