East Coast Splendor

Drive Time –  Approximately 55 minutes

Accommodation – Galle Face Hotel (Landmark Room)

Meal Basis – Bed & Breakfast basis

Arrive in Sri Lanka in the style you deserve, greeted by your chauffeur guide and transfer directly to Galle Face Hotel; an iconic landmark situated in the heart of Colombo along the seafront and facing the infamous Galle Face Green!

Although it’s unlikely it will reclaim its 19th-century moniker ‘the garden city of the East’, Colombo has nevertheless emerged as a must-see stop in Sri Lanka. No longer just the sprawling city you have to endure on your way to the beaches, it has become a worthy destination in its own right and makes an excellent start – or finish – to your Sri Lankan adventures.

Drive Time –     Approximately 4 hour drive

Accommodation –    Ulagalla Resort (Chalet with Pool)

Meal Basis –   Bed & Breakfast basis

Set off from coastal Negombo to experience the inland delights of Sri Lanka. Your journey will take you along a picturesque route passing rice paddy fields. En route pass the salt pans of Puttalam lagoon and the Anawilundawa bird sanctuary.

Upon checking into your exclusive resort, have some lunch and then go ahead to explore the ruins of Anuradhapura which are one of South Asia’s most evocative sights. The expansive complex contains an opulent collection of archaeological and architectural wonders: gigantic dagobas (brick stupas), ancient pools and crumbling temples, built during Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over the island. Today, many of the sites are preserved in use as sacred places and temples; frequent ceremonies bestow Anuradhapura as a city of vibrancy. Also you can climb the nearby Mihintale rock and absorb the history of the destination.

Drive Time – Approximately 4 hour drive both ways

Accommodation – Ulagalla Resort (Chalet with Pool)

Meal Basis –  Bed & Breakfast basis

A hike to Pidurangala in the early morning can be a more memorable experience. A climb of 20 minutes will be well rewarded with the majestic view of Sigiriya Lion’s rock, picturesque lakes, greenery and land vistas. You also have the option to climb Sigiriya rock fortress instead.

En-route, stop at a village home for “Plain Tea” with Treacle and “Helapa”, a traditional Sri Lankan snack that can refresh you.

Afterwards take an exhilarating jeep safari with the company of an expert naturalist guide to the Minneriya or neighboring Kavdullah National Park. In the dry season, more than 300 elephants converge on the retreating waters of the Minneriya Tank. This massive meeting of elephants – popularly known as ‘The Gathering’ takes place from July to October; where these gentle giants travel to drink, eat, socialize and search for mates. While you are waiting, ask your driver if he/she can roll back the canvas top so that you can stand up for a better view of the 40 to 50 beautiful, happy, wild and free herds of elephants hanging out in the plains.

Drive Time –  Approximately 3 hour drive

Accommodation –  Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes (Beach Cabin)

Meal Basis –  Bed & Breakfast basis

Before breakfast, we suggest that you take a quiet morning cycle ride around the resort area and visit the small village nearby.

Then commence your beach escapade by heading to the historic town of Trincomalee (Trinco). Renowned for having one of the most picturesque natural harbors in the world, Trinco has some charm, plenty of history and an interesting blend of people. It’s easy to spend a day or more exploring the ins and outs of the numerous waterfronts, the Fort, multitude of ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples and the off-shore Pigeon Island. Simply strolling along the beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli, bathing in the ocean, watching the handful of fishermen going about their daily business and soaking up the scene is a brilliant way to relish your beach escape.

So put on your travelling boots, sprinkle some wanderlust and join us to explore the best places to visit in Trinco in the next few days!

Accommodation –   Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes (Beach Cabin)

Meal Basis –   Bed & Breakfast basis

Want to float on blue waters and lose yourself in a dream world of fairy colored corals, hundreds of reef fish, turtles and fish? Take a 20 – 30 minute boat ride out of Nilaveli Beach to the Pigeon Island; a small island with super clear water, a small white sand beach, glittering rocks, pools and shallow turquoise waters ideal for a snorkeling adventure! A veritable open-air aquarium, the island is home to more than 300 species of fish, but also several varieties of turtles and sharks; namely the harmless black tip reef shark!

If you wish you may also explore the sea world in the open waters off of the pristine coast of Trinco. Other than sea turtles and sharks you can also swim with a colorful assortment of fish including a neon parrot fish and many varieties of butterfly fish, angelfish, blue-spotted rays and more!

Alternatively, if you haven’t gotten your fill of wildlife, set off on an early morning expedition to encounter the activity of Whales and Dolphin watching where one can easily spot whales playing, swishing and if you’re lucky their acrobatic skills. You could also spend a morning sailing and snorkeling on a catamaran and taking part in watersports in the middle of the ocean!

If you can tear yourself away from the pristine shoreline, explore the Trinco town in the afternoon. Start your quest by exploring the 17^th Century Dutch Fort; Fort Frederik. Within the fort, you can see many deer and escape the heat of the day as most of the fort is covered by trees! From Fort Frederik, you can follow the road until the viewpoint area and meet the Hindu temple Koneswaram; perched on atop of the famous Swami Rock. The Temple is famous for its soaring Shiva shrine and the surreal panoramic views of the surroundings including the Trinco Bay. Complete your day by the small cross dug into the rock that runs along the side of the cliff over 100 meters high whilst enjoying a sip of a coconut drink and street vade.

Accommodation –  Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes (Beach Cabin)

Meal Basis –Bed & Breakfast basis

Today continue your adventures in the Trinco town by commencing a visit to a beautifully colored Hindu temple; Sri Pathrakali Amman Kovil. It even might be your lucky day to experience a ceremony!

Drop by the Kanniya (Seven Hot Wells) for a fun bathing experience with water varying from temperatures of lukewarm to extremely hot or take a peek at the Commonwealth war cemetery; WWII cemetery. Alternatively why not try your hand at a little fishing among the mangroves in Sri Lanka? A quiet boat ride along a tranquil lagoon, allows one to experience the simple lives of the local fishermen at dusk! Marvel at the abundance of endemic and migratory birdlife and other wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys and possibly elephants in the beauty of an untouched paradise!

Besides exploring the towns, lazing on the beach and going for a swim are two other activities you must do. Take a dip at the Manayaweli Bay: a stunning secluded beach with absolutely no one on it or the Nilaveli Beach: an ultimate a tropical getaway for those looking to romance the soft, white sands and the gentle tides spewing out from the ocean.

You won’t be short of dining options either! If you’re a seafood lover, do not miss the Jaffna Chili crab at The Crab restaurant at Trinco Blu or head over to chill at Fernando’s for some good drinks, music and enjoy the sunset in a hammock!

Drive Time – Approximately 2 hour drive

Accommodation – Karpaha Sands (Palam Suite)

Meal Basis –  Bed & Breakfast basis

Continue your beach escapade to Passikudha; a small undiscovered fishing village, offering its natural and cultural treasures, including the country’s most wonderful beaches and its rich Tamil culture. Home to fragile coral reefs, the beaches are made up of soft translucent sand, lapped by crystal-clear shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling!

Enroute to your beach sojourn, we suggest you drop by the vibrant city of Batticaloa on a half-day tour and visit some Hindu temples, the Old Dutch fort, Kallady Bridge, the Lighthouse, and perhaps a local market. Why not end the afternoon with a paddle boat or kayak ride in the Batticaloa Lagoon to take in the views and observe the local birdlife. Alternatively you could explore the southern part of Batticaloa, biking along the beach to visit a fish market, a local organic garden or perhaps meet some handloom weavers!

Late afternoon retreat to your luxurious abode to unwind in your spacious tented suites with their intimate gardens and panoramic ocean views or pamper your way to enjoying a soothing massage or Ayurvedic treatment!

Accommodation – Karpaha Sands (Palam Suite)

Meal Basis –   Bed & Breakfast basis

Enjoy long walks along the bay or simply laze on the beach and soak in the stupendous views! Alternatively channel your inner adventures by partaking in some water sports from jet skis, kayaking/windsurfing, snorkeling in the beautiful corals or enjoy a hike to the top of the steep rocky outcrop of Kudumbimalai also referred to as ‘Baron’s Cap’. There are plenty of options for scuba diving and sailing further away from shore!

You could also explore the local area on a fun tuk-tuk excursion into neighboring villages and nearby Passikudha. Take a peek at some colorful temples, hidden ruins in the jungle, followed by a visit to the old British harbor, the “spiritual art gallery” and end your visit atop of the Elephant Rock for a breath-taking view of the Bay!

Drive Time –     Approximately 3 ½ – 4 hour drive

Accommodation –  Jetwing Surf (Cabana)

Meal Basis –    Bed & Breakfast basis

Your last stop for the beach sojourn is the charming little village of Arugam Bay; home to some famed point breaks that many regard as the best surf spot in the country. It’s a small city with a population of a few hundred, and everything is speckled along a solitary road which parallels the coast. So in other words, this is the epitome of the laid-back beach scene that first drew surfers and sun-seekers to the eastern coast. Besides its famed big breaks, nature lovers can also enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside, or even head further afield to the south coast national parks.

Whilst the beaches are great, don’t forget to spend an afternoon wandering the streets and poking your heads into the local stores. The village is made up of one strip, which is abundant in surf-shops, thatch roofed smoothie and juice bars, beach front cocktail bars and beautiful homely cafes. Alternatively, the best way to experience the serenity of this village is by canoe or kayak on the Pottuvil Lagoon; a few miles away from Arugam Bay. You can encounter crocodiles, birds, and monkeys, whilst along the edge of the lagoon you will witness local fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

Late afternoon retreat to your humble abode – Jetwing Surf; located on an exclusive stretch of untouched beach with the waves of Pottuvil Point located two minutes away whilst Arugam Bay is found just next-door.

Accommodation –  Jetwing Surf (Cabana)

Meal Basis –  Bed & Breakfast basis

Imagine you walking onto the untouched sand to head out on your surfboard to watch the sunrise from the water. You will feel the power of the ocean swish against, across and underneath your body as you float, glide and ride over the waves. You should not leave without trying your hand at it, even if you haven’t surfed before! The shifting formation of the waves, we think is best months for surfing are July, August and September. The waves are pleasant enough for all types of surfers, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, so ensure you don’t leave this place without a surf session!

During the season, it can get busy, and learners should stick to the gentle beach break further inside of the point known as Baby Point – a great setup for beginners and long boarders! The months of August & September allow for learners and all-levels alike at the Pottuvil Point as the breaks are gentle and sandy. Waves are guaranteed all season along at Whiskey Point as a result of its unique setup favorable for surf lessons of if you are just getting back into the water after a while and need to regain confidence! To the south; the Elephant Rock is another favorite for beginners as a result of the sandy bar and shallow waters whilst more advanced surfers will certainly enjoy the deeper drop into the wave. The Crocodile Rock and Peanut Farm – the latter has two breaks (one of which is advanced) is favorable for all levels whilst the Main point is recommended for intermediate to advanced surfers – this wave can get pretty gnarly on low tide! Further south, accessible via a dirt track, are Panama and Okanda, which many consider the best of the lot and favorable for all levels!

After your surfing rendezvous, catch the Sunset in Elephant Rock! Located on the East of the bay, climb to the top and you are rewarded with one of the best vistas in the area!

Accommodation –  Jetwing Surf (Cabana)

Meal Basis –  Bed & Breakfast basis

If you need a break from the beaches and surfing then the green landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Kumana National Park is the place to visit! Located to the south of Arugam Bay, (a day trip) the park is best known for its extensive bird habitats, spectacular lagoons Sri Lankan elephants, wild boar and much more or why not take a peek in the neighboring Lahugala National Park; a hidden gem that has long been the watering hole and feeding area for a large population of Sri Lankan elephants.

Alternatively you can tear yourself away to exploring the city by accommodating a visit to the Muhudu Maha Vihara; a distinctive Buddhist temple located along the coast OR visit the sleepy little village of Panama – a wonderful place to see local life as it really is! You could also catch the chimes of the bells around 3-4pm atop the Kudumbigala Monastery – it may not be the easiest of climbs, but it’s certainly worth it!

Just because you’re not surfing, it does not mean you can’t relax on the beach; the favorite spot being Whisky point! There are many beachfront restaurants that offer delicious food and cool drinks whilst you can relax on the beds and watch the surfers catch some waves!

Drive Time –     Approximately Approx. 3 ½ hours

Accommodation –     Dream Cliff Resort (Luxury Beehive)

Meal Basis –   Bed and Breakfast Basis

End your stay in the next day nestled in the perfect hill climate of Beragala; a hidden treasure located in the highlands of Sri Lanka near Haputale and Ella. This tranquil village is snuggled in a valley gazing straight through the Beragala Gap to the plain nearly 1,000m below! Apart from the mesmerizing natural views, take a peek at the hilly countryside of Haputale which is perfect for walks, through tea plantations, waterfalls, ancient temples and artifacts.

Your retreat in the next two days offers a very scenic vantage point with a bird-eye view of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Drive Time –   Approximately Approx. 5 ½ hours

Accommodation –   Galle Face Hotel (Landmark Room)

Meal Basis – Bed & Breakfast basis

Take a diverse observation to the Ceylon tea culture by visiting the Amba Tea Estate; small organic farm that specializes in a scale production of hand-rolled tea! Commence a tour of the tea estate; visit the tea factory and learn of artisanal tea making, experience tea tasting (from green teas to lemon grass and black teas) and take a peek at the range of artisan teas, coffee, cinnamon and lemongrass growing side by side.

Get back to the main city to be near the airport for the next day, perhaps part of it by the scenic train. Wind down your stay back at the lavish confines of the iconic Galle Face Hotel! Alternatively if time permits you could engage in an enthralling city tour which entails a short visit to interesting features such as the old city of Fort, the main markets of Pettah, the Hindu Temple at Sea Street, the Dutch Church at Wolfendal, the historic Davatagaha Mosque and the Seema Malaka Temple.

Drive Time –  Approximately 55 min drive

Enriched in a beach sojourn escapade, we bid you farewell as your Chauffeur Guide transfers you to the Airport to meet your departure flight home.