Introduction to Sri Lanka

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where King Kasyapa built his capital city and his brightly decorated palace. The site gets its nickname Lion Rock as the old stairway to the top of the rock led through the mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of how big the lion's head must have been.

Drive back to the hotel and spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure.

Depart to Kandy with an en-route excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dambulla Rock Caves. This series of caves are cut into a granite outcrop that’s 160 metres high, from here the views of the surrounding countryside are outstanding. It was used as a Buddhist monastery and is very decorative with many ornate murals and statues inside. Next you head to a Spice Garden to see spices growing in their naturaral habitat and learn of their use in Sri Lankan cuisine. The afternoon includes a sightseiingtour of Kandy including a visit to the much revered Temple of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha, a visit to a bazaar and a Gem Lapidary where you might want to buy a personalised gem or jewellery. This evening enjoy a cultural show with a display of several ancient and modern dance forms and drum rhythms.

Ater breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Gardensin Kandy, a lush 47 acres featuring 300 species of orchids and a variety of tropical birds. Followed by a scenic mountain climb passing waterfalls to Nuwara Eliya, a dense forest area with fantastic wildlife. Here you will see that the red or green roofed plantation bungalows, country style homes and hotels with manicured flower gardens, a fine 18 hole golf course and a racecourse give this town a decidely British feel. Onwards to a working tea plantation and a factory to watch the process of turning the green leaf into the familiar final tea product. Breakfast and Dinner are included.

Enjoy a scenic drive followed by a city tour of the fascinating city of Colombo including visits to the Commercial, Residential and Bazaar areas. Colombo has long been the traditional gateway to the Orient and the original traders and settlers. Here you will see the influences left behind by the the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and the British in the churches and monuments, names and religions, costumes and also food. This is where your tour will end.

Beruwala, located on Sri Lanka's stunning southwest coast, is a serene seaside town known for its golden beaches and rich cultural heritage. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, diving, and water sports, while the iconic Barberyn Island Lighthouse offers breathtaking views. Explore the Kande Viharaya Temple, home to a towering Buddha statue, or visit the bustling fish markets for a taste of local life. Beruwala is also renowned for its Ayurvedic wellness retreats and vibrant Moorish culture, reflected in the historic Kechimalai Mosque. This tranquil destination is ideal for relaxation, cultural exploration, and seaside charm.