Negombo

This bustling, fishing town on the west coast of Sri Lanka (and close to the Bandaranaika International Airport), had a rather turbulent colonial history involving the Dutch, Portuguese and British due to the cinnamon trade. In fact, the wild cinnamon that grew in the region was described as ‘the very best in the universe as well as the most abundant’. The remnants of this colonial period remain with the strong Catholic Church influence in the town. The Negombo Lagoon and the many canals offer superb birdwatching, the town’s Old Quarter is worth a visit, and the community is friendly and welcoming.

Day Itinerary

At the airport you will be greeted by our Jetwing Representative and your chauffeur guide who will take you to the beach resort town of Negombo. Rest and recoup from any jet lag. Negombo is a buzzing hub of contrasts and cultures. If you feel like exploring, your chauffeur guide will show you around some of the most interesting sights and landmarks and perhaps take a boat ride along the Dutch canal. Or, you can relax on the most famous golden sands of Negombo beach.

Overnight: Jetwing Beach Hotel       

Jetwing Beach is a landmark property of Jetwing Hotels. Designed by the internationally renowned Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel is a wonderful example of Sri Lankan design within a tropical paradise.

Features of the Jetwing Beach Hotel include a magnificent pool to swim in, a spa full of wellness treatments and elegant rooms to escape to at the end of an invigorating day. The guest rooms at Jetwing Beach reflect the ethos of beauty and comfort which the hotel is renowned for. All guest rooms have a private terrace on which to bask in ocean views and for private dining.

With 5 different options for dining, guests are assured of delectable dishes which feature delicious local and international cuisine. The Sands hosts magnificent buffets as well as scrumptious seafood BBQs. The Black Coral provides refined fine dining complete with haute cuisine. The Deck and the Terrace Bar serves a wide selection of wines and drinks. There is also the option of signature dining or even spa dining.

Optional

Negombo

This bustling, fishing town on the west coast of Sri Lanka (and close to the Bandaranaika International Airport), had a rather turbulent colonial history involving the Dutch, Portuguese and British due to the cinnamon trade. In fact, the wild cinnamon that grew in the region was described as ‘the very best in the universe as well as the most abundant’. The remnants of this colonial period remain with the strong Catholic Church influence in the town. The Negombo Lagoon and the many canals offer superb birdwatching, the town’s Old Quarter is worth a visit, and the community is friendly and welcoming.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Kandalama

Sitting pretty in the centre of pearl-shaped Sri Lanka is Kandalama Reservoir. The light tropical forest, caves and reservoir provide a natural habitat for a variety of fauna and flora including butterflies, deer, wild boar, porcupine and three species of monkeys. In addition, there are over 170 species of resident and migrant birds such as babblers, barbets, bulbuls, parakeets, woodpeckers and sunbirds. Not far off is the historic Aligala (Elephant Rock) jungle caves that date back to the third century BC and Sigiriya Rock, an ancient palace perched on top of a 200m rocky outcrop.

Day Itinerary

Pay an early morning visit to a ‘lellama’ – Negombo’s bustling fish market. Watch the fishermen bring in their night’s catch for sale. Leave the coast and head inland. Break your journey at Anuradhapura – the first capital of ancient Ceylon, reigning for over a thousand years. Take a walking tour with your chauffeur guide visiting the Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli seya and Mihintale. Later, arrive at Bawa’s iconic landmark, Heritance Kandalama. A tranquil haven built into the rockface and surrounded by jungle, blending in perfectly.

Overnight: Heritance Kandalama

Heritance Kandalama overlooks the rock fortress of Sigiriya. The hotel sits at the heart of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, close to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. All rooms are luxuriously designed and feature free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea-making facilities, air conditioning, and TVs. Offering a wide selection of dining options, guests can enjoy delicious cuisine from the on-site restaurants. Other amenities include three swimming pools, a library, a business centre, and a gym. Guests can also make use of the on-site spa and experience a range of relaxing treatments.

Activities

• Negombo Fish Market
• Anuradhapura

Negombo Fish Market

Negombo Fish Market takes place right on the beach in Sri Lanka. Vendors sell a variety of fish, such as tuna, cuttlefish, crab, and dried fish, that have all come straight off the fishing boat.

Anuradhapura

The capital of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Anuradhapura is an impressive major city set on the banks of the Malvathu River. This is an important heritage area, recognised by UNESCO. The city developed around the sacred, third-century ‘tree of enlightenment, Sri Maha Bodhi, said to be the oldest tree on earth, looked after for 2000 years. A massive collection of ancient ruins encompasses monasteries, palaces, and other monuments, and is surrounded by beautiful green jungle. Numerous sites are still used for religious ceremonies today. Must-sees include the massive Abhayagiri Dagoba, (‘Hill of Protection’), the stunning Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba, guarded by the statues of 344 elephants; and the Jetavanarama Dagoba, which was, at the time of construction, the third-largest building in the world (after the two pyramids), and was the site of one of the first Buddhist sermons.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Early morning, climb the amazing Sigiriya rock fortress – a World Heritage Site. This 5th Century marvel is an architectural masterpiece carved from a massive rock. In the afternoon, learn about the better kept ruins of ancient Ceylon at the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa – the medieval capital of ancient Lanka from the 11th to 13th century A.D. Take a walking tour of the ruins at Lankathilaka, Thuparamaya, Royal Palace, Rankoth Vehera and Gal Viharaya and Vatadage and be awed by their lasting grandeur

Activities

• Sigiriya

Recommended

• Morning – Polonnaruwa

Sigiriya

Situated in the northern Matale District of Sri Lanka, the small village of Sigiriya is best known for its proximity to the magnificent Sigiriya ‘Lion Rock’. The village offers some comfortable accommodations and a variety of restaurants for visitors to enjoy when stopping over to view the famous rock. This ancient rock fortress rises abruptly from the lush landscape and reaches over 200 metres in height. Crowning this massive outcrop are the ruins of an ancient civilisation, which are considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can walk through the lily-dotted moats, lush gardens and cave shrines, through the grand lion-paw entrance, and climb the series of steep staircases passing beautiful murals painted on the sheer rock walls, and enjoy exploring the ruins and soaking up spectacular views of the surrounds.

Polonnaruwa

In the North Central Province of Sri Lanka lies the extraordinary ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The city is comprised of two distinct parts: the New Town area, known as Kaduruwela; and the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa, the second oldest of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms. This rich archeological treasure trove contains countless fascinating ruins all conveniently grouped into one compact and easily accessible tourist site. Don’t miss the Minneriya and Kaudulla national parks where you can spot Sri Lanka’s legendary elephants and an abundance of exotic wildlife; and the Dalada Maluwa which is home to the Tooth Relic and some of the country’s most impressively ornate buildings.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Kandy

The second major city in Sri Lanka (the other being Colombo) lies at the centre of the Kandy Plateau, an area of beautiful tropical tea plantations. A magnificent must-see feature of the area is Kandy Lake, to the north of which lies the golden-roofed Temple of The Tooth (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important place for Buddhist worship, as it is said to house a tooth relic of Buddha). Other fascinating places to visit include the Ceylon Tea Museum, the Buddhist Publication Society, the Ayurvedic centre in the Amaya Hills nearby, the Kandyan Art Association and Cultural Centre, where craftspeople can be seen at work, and the Kandy Muslim Hotel, which offers the finest spiced curries served with naan or Rotis.

Day Itinerary

En route to Kandy, visit the Matale Heritage Centre to see the designs of Mrs. Ena de Silva – a close friend and collaborator of Geoffrey Bawa who contributed many pieces to his projects. Arrive in Kandy – eminent centre of Buddhism and the last stronghold of the Sinhalese kingdom. Pay homage to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic – a tooth of the Lord Buddha. Visit the bustling streets and market places. Take in the views from upper Lake drive.

Expert Tips

Ensure you wear proper attire below the knee. Shorts or sleeveless attire are not allowed in the temple

Overnight: Jetwing Kandy Gallery    

Positioned overlooking the Mahaweli River, the longest in the country, Jetwing Kandy Gallery is a luxurious getaway which situated guests amidst beautiful surroundings while being near attractions including the Temple of the Tooth, Victoria Rantambe Randenigala sanctuary and the Knuckles and Hanthane mountain ranges.

This modern oasis is home to 26 spacious rooms and elegant suites, each boasting plush furnishings, contemporary decor and modern amenities. When it comes to dining, guests can indulge in traditional cuisine at the Riverscape Restaurant, an intimate private experience at The Royal Table or a drink at the bar. Additional facilities include a swimming pool and a spa while leisure activities include yoga.

Activities

• Kandy
• Matale

Recommended

• Evening – Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Kandy

The second major city in Sri Lanka (the other being Colombo) lies at the centre of the Kandy Plateau, an area of beautiful tropical tea plantations. A magnificent must-see feature of the area is Kandy Lake, to the north of which lies the golden-roofed Temple of The Tooth (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important place for Buddhist worship, as it is said to house a tooth relic of Buddha). Other fascinating places to visit include the Ceylon Tea Museum, the Buddhist Publication Society, the Ayurvedic centre in the Amaya Hills nearby, the Kandyan Art Association and Cultural Centre, where craftspeople can be seen at work, and the Kandy Muslim Hotel, which offers the finest spiced curries served with naan or Rotis.

Matale

Resting in the folds of a verdant valley in the centre of Sri Lanka, Matale is an urban and agricultural town 105 kilometres from Colombo and 26 kilometres from Kandy. Known for its prolific tasty spices, the town also boasts captivating nature trails and enthralling temples. Travellers can visit idyllic plantations to see how vanilla, cocoa and cardamom thrive, and those with adventurous palates can try the region’s famous chillis. Explore the intriguing Buddhist caves filled with religious paintings and stupas at Aluvihara, or see the five massive, colourful chariots pulled along by devotees in the Theru festival, at the Sri Muthumariamman Thevasthanam. Thrill seekers will delight in the Riverston Peak Hike, also known as The World’s End, ’which ends in a sharp 300-metre drop with astonishing views of the Thelgamuwa Valley, the terraced rice fields, and the Knuckles mountain range.

Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka.  It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO world heritage site partly due to the temple.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Ella

Resting on the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s picturesque Hill Country, the small, sleepy village of Ella is known for its exceptional natural scenery, its wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, and its pleasantly moderate climate. This popular backpacker-hub has become a well-established, must-see tourist destination and an ideal base for travellers exploring the idyllic surrounding countryside cloaked in tea plantations and lush forest. With only a handful of essential stores and tourist facilities, Ella has managed to retain its rural charm and visitors will find a single street winding its way down the hillside past a few quaint cafés, guesthouses and cottages enclosed in neat, flower-filled gardens. At the edge of the escarpment, you will find a classic view past the renowned Ella Rock on the right and through a cleft in the hills – the so-called Ella Gap – to the plains far below.

Day Itinerary

Enjoy a scenic drive to the hills of Bandarawela through lush tea plantations. Drop by the Chapel of the Good Shepherd’s Convent – designed by Geoffrey Bawa and Ulrik Plesner. Continue to Ella – a small but popular town nestled high in the mountains and famed for its breathtaking views. Stop to admire the cascading Ravana Ella waterfall and the iconic Demodara Nine Arch Bridge. Continue to your stay for the night – the 98 Acres Resort & Spa; an elegant, chic hotel set amidst a sprawling tea estate.

Overnight: 98 Acres Resort & Spa     View iBrochure

Situated on a 98-acre tea estate in Ella in Sri Lanka, 98 Acres Resort & Spa blends well with nature and is an ideal option for leisure travellers and nature enthusiasts looking for a relaxing getaway surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The resort offers a number of charming chalets, all of which feature modern amenities such as LED TVs and free Wi-Fi access. Some also feature kitchens and private pools. During their stay, guests can enjoy ding at the on-site restaurant, while refreshing drinks are available at the bar. There are a number of activities available, including mountain biking, bird watching, and hiking.

Activities

• Nine Arch Bridge
• Ravana Falls

Nine Arch Bridge

Located in the village of Ella in Sri Lanka, the Nine Arch Bridge is a must-see when travelling to the country. The stone bridge is hidden between the green tea fields and features nine spectacular arches. Tourists can hike through the jungle to the bridge or embark on a train ride which runs six times a day.

Ravana Falls

The Ravana Falls is located within the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Lanka. Nature enthusiasts can take in the breathtaking sight as the water cascades over an oval-shaped concave outcrop to pool at the bottom of the 25-metre drop. The waterfall is at it’s most beautiful in the rainy season where the flow is said to resemble a flower with withering petals.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Galle

Resting on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle (Pronounced ‘gawl’ in English) is the best example of a walled city built by the Portuguese in South Asia in the 16th Century. It was extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. When you enter the old city gates of this World Heritage Site you can’t help but notice the grand colonial houses and boutique shops and of course the beautiful beaches on the fringes of town. Attracting many luxury travellers from around the world, the town is also a favourite with cricket fans who rate the Galle International Stadium to be one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world.

Day Itinerary

On the way to Galle, visit two lesser known Bawa creations: the Ruhunu University Campus and the Matara Post Office. Stop for lunch at Heritance Ahungalla – another Bawa inspired design. Continue to Galle – Sri Lanka’s oldest living city dotted with historic sites. A hive of activity, arts and culture it’s one of the few World Heritage sites where a bustling population continues to thrive with alleys lined with restaurants, art galleries and shops selling jewellery and antiques. Overnight stay at Jetwing Lighthouse – Bawa’s architectural masterpiece.

Overnight: Jetwing Lighthouse         

Jetwing Lighthouse is located on the immediate outskirts of Galle, upon a hillock overlooking the vast Indian Ocean. Designed by Geoffrey Bawa, all rooms feature a signature ambience with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, hairdryers, and minibars. Featuring an exquisite selection of six dining spaces, guests can enjoy delicious meals and drinks from the on-site restaurants. In addition, the hotel boasts a host of modern facilities and services, such as a tranquil Ayurveda spa, a tennis court, and conference facilities.

Activities

• Matara
• Galle Fort

Matara

Situated on the southern coast of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, the city of Matara serves as the main commercial hub of the region. Known for its Dutch architecture, vibrant street life and picture-perfect beach, the lively metropolis is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike as it provides a fascinating peek into modern Sri Lankan life. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities, including exploring the small and lush Crow Island; visiting the Paravi Dupatha Temple on Pigeon Island; and discovering the Star Fort, an old Dutch fort situated on the banks of the Nawali River.

Galle Fort

The Galle Dutch Fort is located in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Built in 1588 by the Portuguese, the fort was fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. This historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument is still polished after 423 years. The venue is used as an event venue.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Colombo

Colombo, a commercial and tourist hub on the west coast of Sri Lanka. The vibrant canal city boasts golden beaches and a photogenic promenade, gorgeous temples, and chic restaurants among impressive skyscrapers. Must-see attractions include the grand and atmospheric Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple, and Hindu Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil, known for its exquisite interiors. A historic Dutch quarter beckons to be explored – the Dutch Hospital and Dutch Period museum are quite fascinating, and the artisan colonnaded craft stores lend a special air to the area. Nature lovers will enjoy walking through the beautiful Talangama Wetland which fringes the city or taking a short break from the city bustle in the Viharamahadevi Park, known for its delightful flowering trees and local snake charmers.

Day Itinerary

On your way to Colombo, take a break for an alfresco lunch at the Lunuganga Estate – Bawa’s country home. Explore Colombo with your chauffeur guide: visit the Pettah market, the colonial side of Fort, the Hindu Temple at Sea Street, the Dutch Church at Wolfendal or head for the shopping malls for some bargains. Visit Bawa’s residence at No. 11 for a tour and continue the evening with dinner at his former office – the Gallery Cafe, perhaps in the company of Channa Daswatte, Bawa’s protege.

Overnight: Galle Face Hotel  

The Galle Face Hotel enjoys an enviable position within the business district of Colombo and is the only hotel to stand adjacent to the beach.

For generations, guests have come back again and again, seduced by the nostalgic charm of the rooms in the hotel. Distinctive comforts with subtle embellishments make your stay at the Galle Face Hotel an experience to look forward to. Upgrade to one of the Studio Rooms, Junior Suites or Suites and enjoy the unrivaled experience of the Long Room, a private lounge with elegant personal service.

The Galle Face Hotel takes pleasure in presenting some of Colombo’s finest cuisines in unique locations throughout the hotel whether elegant afternoon teas at The Veranda or an innovative modern menu at the 1864. A specially mixed Pimms cup on the Chequerboard or a spectacular seafood experience at Sea Spray.

Activities

• Lunuganga Estate
• De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa
• Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo

Lunuganga Estate

No place reveals the soul of Geoffrey Bawa, the acclaimed Sri Lankan architect, better than his country home, Lunuganga. When Bawa purchased the site in 1948, it was nothing more than a derelict rubber estate sitting on a promontory in the Dedduwa Lake, 2km inland from the Bentota coast. But over the next fifty years, he painstakingly transformed it into one of the most seductive, passionate pleasure gardens of the twentieth century.

From the heart of the estate, turn to the south, and a wide swathe of green field, fringed by thickets, swells gently upwards to Cinnamon Hill. Beyond, the lake glimmers and draws the eye to the hills in the distance. Turn to the north, and a glorious azure sweep of water and sky swings into view. Here, the edge of the land falls away in a dramatic cliff to reveal a water garden filled with lilies and ornamental rice paddies. This is the complex, Arcadian magic of Lunuganga: a single turn transforms an enthralling, idyllic perspective into an ecstatic, unrestrained panorama. To wander through Lunuganga is to be confronted with a palimpsest of influences, ideas, and memories.

The entire estate is now run as a country house boutique hotel offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the architect’s vision as he intended.

De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa

Located in the heart of Colombo in Sri Lanka, De Saram House by Geoffrey Bawa is set in the Cinnamon Gardens district and is an ideal option for leisure travellers looking for a relaxing and convenient accommodation option. The hotel offers a selection of rooms, all of which feature air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs. During their stay, guests can enjoy an a la carte breakfast served daily. Nearby attractions include the National Art Gallery, Viharamahadevi Park, and the Colombo National Museum.

Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo

Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo is a unique and private hotel located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and is renowned for its privacy, space and service. Accommodation at the hotel features tastefully furnished rooms equipped with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, mosquito nets, flat-screen TV, minibar, electric safe, and a hairdryer. Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo is housed in a stunning heritage structure of national importance, previously home to several Sri Lankan political leaders. The hotel also features a grand main lobby lounge with an alfresco dining space and a private swimming pool located on the ground floor within a walled courtyard.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

As all good things must come to an end, we bid you farewell as our Chauffeur Guide transfers you to the Airport to meet your departure flight home.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast