Off The Beaten Path

You will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Meet our representative and transfer to Kotugoda. You are free for the rest of the day.

Optional Activity – A city tour across the fishing village

Negombo is a major coastal city in Sri Lanka with a modest beach close to Bandaranaike International airport. Situated on the west coast of the island and at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon, Negombo is known for its massive age old fishing industry with busy fish markets and sandy beaches. In addition to the beaches for which Negombo is known, the town itself presents a style influenced by its colonial past and the Catholic Church. Attractions include holdovers from the Dutch period, including the Dutch Canal and the Old Dutch fort gate. There's a selection of centuries-old churches, small fishing villages in the immediate area and some interesting temples a bit farther inland.

Return back to the hotel and spend a relaxed evening.

Enjoy your welcome dinner with a glass of wine.

After a filling breakfast, experience a boat ride in Negombo Dutch Canal.

Then you will be heading towards Anuradhapura and on the way visit Yapahuwa ancient kingdom.

EXPERIENCE – A boat ride in Negombo Dutch Canal

The boat ride/safari that takes one along the old Dutch canal which runs through Waikkal presents visitors a glance at bird life, essentially comprising waders, stunning kingfishers, rare pied kingfishers, bee-eaters, Brahminy kites, etc. Water monitors bearing an uncanny resemblance to crocodiles are also bound to make an appearance.

Optional Activity – Vesak Lantern / Kite making for kids

Sri Lankans take kite flying very seriously. There are many structural variations in the designs. Some kites are compact and nimble while others such as the 'Naya' meaning snake in Sinhalese resemble a cobra is constructed with an entire saree attached to the bottom of the kite. When airborne these majestic kites are quite the sight. Around the island children and families gather to fly their kites and it is truly a celebration of harmony. You will have the chance to meet a local family and spend an afternoon making a kite with them. Then as evening draws near and the heat of the day dispels; head out to an empty field and fly your colorful creation.

Explore – Visit Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom

It was the capital of Sri Lanka for a brief period in the 13th century. It was built on a rock mountain similar to Sigiriya rock fortress. Several Chinese ceramics, coins and pottery pieces were found on excavation, which leads to believe that king had close ties with China. The intriguing history of the Yapahuwa rock is evident in the ruins lying in the premises. Due to being in an isolated side of the cultural triangle, visitors could observe the area undisturbed without the usual tourist crowds. Cultural lovers should not miss seeing this place.

Enjoy a scrumptious Breakfast at the Hotel.

EXPLORE - Ancient city of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura was made the first capital of Sri Lanka by King Pandukhabaya in the 4th century BC and it so remained till the 11th century AD known as the longest serving capitals, famous in ancient and modern times. Anuradhapura is a beautiful picturesque town located along a river bank which is popular for the fascinating ancient ruins and deep rooted Buddhist culture. There is plenty to see in Anuradhapura from ancient trees like the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest tree in the world, to ancient monasteries and ruins of historical importance. Anuradhapura is one of the eight historical heritage sites in Sri Lanka.

EXPERIENCE – Organic Garden Tour & Sri Lankan Cookery Demonstration

For the nature-loving gourmet: we offer a guided tour of Sri Lankan organic farming and of our organic herb and vegetable garden, during which you can pick fresh, juicy fruits and vegetables for your lunch. End your walk with a visit to our traditional healthy kitchen, where the herbs and vegetables you’ve selected will be transformed into delicious Sri Lankan dishes especially for you.

• Best time: At your convenience between 9.30 a.m. and lunchtime

• Duration: 2.5 hours

• Location: In Uga Ulagalla’s organic garden and rustic mud house

• What is included: We provide you with an Uga Ulagalla apron and recipes to take away with you. You can also enjoy your cooking for lunch

What to bring/wear: Comfortable, cool clothes, and your camera

In the late afternoon we visit Mihinthale where you can witness a beautiful sunset.

Optional Activity – Visit Mihintale Mountain Peak

Mihintale is a mountain peak situated east of Anuradhapura. It is a pilgrimage site with several religious shrines and abandoned structures, including ruins of a hospital medical bath at the foot of the peak. The area is fringed by jungle and rock boulders scattered around the mountainous area. There are also many caves which were believed to be used by monks for meditation. Ancient stone architecture is found on several dome shaped monuments, monastic complexes and other sacred places.

Optional Activity – Jungle Kayaking

Take to the waters of the Wannemaduwa Tank in a kayak at dawn or dusk, to experience the breathtaking wildlife at a time when it’s most active. Paddle quietly with your friendly staff guide through floating islands of lotus, strands of water reeds, and overhanging boughs. The soft light of the rising or setting sun makes for a picturesque setting for this excursion offered by our Anuradhapura resort.

• Time of departure: Best times to go 6a.m. or 4p.m.

• Duration: 1 Hour

• Distance: Wannemaduwa Tank is 10km long; it’s up to you how far you wish to paddle

• What is included: Kayaks and life jackets, binoculars, water bottles, a book on Uga Ulagalla birds, fresh juice, and cool towel on your return

What to bring/wear: Comfortable, cool clothes that you don’t mind getting wet, a sunhat, and your camera. No shoes to be worn in the kayak

Optional Activity – Village TUK TUK Tour or Village Bicycle Excursion

Explore your surroundings and take a ride through a local village. Embark on a thrilling journey in a three wheeler commonly known as a “Tuk Tuk”. Enoy the fresh air and excitement of travelling like a local and get an inside view of the daily life of a Sri Lankan village. The tour will take you through the rice fields, lakes and temples and finally to a village house to experience a traditional Sri Lankan meal. Learn some culinary tips and tricks and cook your lunch with the lady of the house, Mrs. Chandrapala, and create memories that will last a life time.

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Discover the humble simplicity of Sri Lankan village life with this two-hour guided bicycle excursion. Keep an eye open for exotic birds and small wildlife along the route – expect surprises on one of the best Sri Lankan bike tours!

Your destination is Veheragalla, a traditional farming village not far from the hotel. You’ll meet the residents and be welcomed at the home of the village headman. On your return journey, savour the tranquillity of the local ‘meditation rock’, where Buddhist monks and villagers gather for spiritual practice on full moon nights.

• Time of departure: Best times to go 7a.m. or 3p.m.

• Duration: 2 hours

• Cycling distance: 6km on the flat

• What is included: Bicycles, water bottles, a map of the village area, drink and snack at a village house, fresh juice, and cool towel on your return

What to bring/wear: Comfortable, cool clothes which are suitable for cycling and a temple visit, a sunhat, gym shoes, your camera, money if you would like to pop into the local ‘kade’ village shop.

After a filling breakfast, visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the Morning and you will partake on a safari ride in the wilderness of Minneriya National Park.

EXPLORE – The marvel of Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya is a fortress complex of a ruined palace and one of the World Heritage sites declared by UNESCO. The “Fortress in the Sky” is undoubtedly one of the most treasured historical monuments in Sri Lanka and probably the most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. The most looked forward features of the fortress are the frescoes of maidens which are intact for over 1,600 years and the remains of the Palace on the summit. Out of 1200, every step depicts a historical flashback hidden behind the core of this giant rock and the interesting surroundings make the tedious climb to the top relatively easy.

Optional Activity– A safari ride at Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population. Sri Lankan Leopards and Sloth bears which are rare and endangered species also inhabit this area. The park was declared as a wildlife sanctuary to protect the watershed of Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area. The tank is historically important for the country as it was built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD and is considered as a ‘Wildlife Spectacle of the World’ – the amazing event of the ‘Minneriya Elephant gathering’ that occurs during August-September.

Afterwards proceed to the Royal City of Kandy also the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Have an early breakfast at hotel and explore the Kandy city and visit Temple of the Tooth relic.

EXPLORE – The royalty amongst Kandyan Streets

Kandy, the charming hill capital of Sri Lanka and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, surrounded by hills, valleys, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. It is the cultural center of the island and a UNESCO heritage city. The sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined at the Dalada Maligawa, The Temple of The Tooth. Take a wander through the lively city streets and then visit the unique Gem Museum, where you will be captivated by the magical wonders of the exhibits' beauty. Make your city tour complete by visiting arts & crafts souvenir shops. Feel free to coordinate with your guide and even buy some of them if desired. Batik Factories are another interesting place to visit. Batik was originated from Indonesia but has been firmly established into the Sri Lankan culture for over a century now, and this style of dying cloths can be seen island wide. Observe the fine method of art that is used to fashion materials and make them colorful just like life. Visit the Bahirawakanda view point at the end.

EXPERIENCE - Taste of Ceylon Tea – Tea Factory visit

Giragama Tea plantation is located in the central province of Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka. The eponymous English “cuppa” might have been somewhat stronger if not for the 1865 coffee blight. Old Ceylon’s up-country plantations were devastated – but not so the spirits of the pioneering planters. They threw in a crop of tea and never looked back. You will visit a tea plantation and observe how the plant is grown and harvested. From here you will travel to a factory and learn about the whole processing procedure and how different types of teas are created.

Optional Activity – ‘Arts and Culture’

Mask factory - Masks have long been an important part of Sri Lankan culture and this hands-on craft session allows you to closely engage with the long-held tradition of mask-carving in Sri Lanka. Today, traditional masks are used mostly in dramas and dance performances, but in rural areas they are still believed to have healing and protective powers. After an introduction to Sri Lankan masks – the various types and their different uses – you can have a go at carving a Kolam mask yourself. Your host will help you draw outlines of typical designs and demonstrate the carving techniques for each section, and assist when needed.

Cultural show - According to the legend, the origins of Kandyan dance lies in an exorcism ritual known as the Kohomba Kankariya, which was originally performed by Indian shamans who came to the island, from which the locals adopted the dance. It was originally performed by dancers who were identified as a separate caste under the Kandyan Fudel system, they were aligned to the Temple of the Tooth and had a significant role to play in the Dalada Perahera (procession) held each year by the temple. The dance waned in popularity as the support for the dancers from the Kandyan kings ended during the British period. It has now been revived and adapted for the stage, and is Sri Lanka’s primary cultural export.

Optional Activity - Tea off at Victoria Golf Course

For golf lovers, the Victoria Golf Club presents a perfect opportunity to showcase and test their golfing skills as the continual change in elevation along with its treacherous surfaces and impressive natural outcrops of rocks make it fairly competitive. Aside from its spectacular backdrop of misty mountains is the tee box, which can be found perched on a peak 100 ft. above a magnificent fairway, lined with trees and flowering shrubs. Prepare for outstanding views as stately trees and several avenues of coconut palms offer something exquisite to behold.

EXPLORE – The religious icon, Temple of The Tooth Relic

The famous Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is an important pilgrimage site not just for the Buddhist in Sri Lanka but the world over. The temple is known as “Sri Dalada Maligawa” in Sinhalese which implies the English meaning of Temple of the Tooth Relic. The beautiful palace temple with its golden roof is located on Victoria Lake and is said to house the tooth of Lord Buddha. The temple itself stands as the pride of Kandy City which glamour the whole area while the traditional drummers beat their drums every morning and evening.

Today in the morning you will firstly enjoy a guided hike to the hidden Bambaragala temple and Pettigala Mountain.

EXPLORE – The hidden gem, Bambragala temple and meditation at Pettigala Rock

The trail up to Pettigala rock begins with a stroll through the Bambaragala Buddhist Temple. You will leave with a new-found astonishment and appreciation of the beauty and history of the Bambaragala temple. As soon as you arrive, you will be greeted by resident monks who told us of its long history, stretching back over 2000 years! Feel free to spend some time exploring the cobbled courtyards and appreciating the incredible cave statues and ancient paintings before continuing up the hill to Pettigala.

The Pettigala hike begins from the top of the stone steps of the Bambaragala monastery. Although not immediately obvious, there is a well-worn trail that continues into the forest just past the top level of the steps. The track consists of rooty undergrowth and is fairly steep in sections. Once you reach the top you will engage in a meditation session. The scenic and mind blowing views will just make you feel worth of all your sweat.

Then your journey will be continuing to Gal Oya.

Check in to your Hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure or Take part in Animal Monitoring Programme at the Lodge.

EXPERIENCE - Animal Monitoring Programme

We have an ongoing project to record and monitor the lodge’s resident species of animals. In order to understand them better and take necessary steps to conserve these animals, our team of naturalists regularly embarks on evening walks around the lodge to set up camera traps. If you wish to partake in our monitoring project or want to learn more about the animals you are welcome to join our naturalists on their evening walk as they do this.

Enjoy your breakfast with a steaming cup of delicious Sri Lankan tea and engage in some of the suggested activities.

Optional Activity - Boat Safari on Sri Lanka’s largest lake

Enjoy the only experience in Sri Lanka that allows you to spot wildlife from the water. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats. With a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. A 2-3 hour safari by boat and a scenic 40 minute drive from the lodge to the lake is perfect to explore the national park and surrounding villages.

Optional Activity - Bird Walks & Hikes through the local area.

Join a resident naturalist for a walk around the lodge, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings. The walk offers a number of possible routes through the trees and around the nearby lake, to observe a wide range of bird species such as Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and many aquatic birds. Please feel free to discuss your interests with your naturalist for a tailored trip to suit your preferences.

Optional Activity - Visit indigenous people of central Sri Lanka.

Gal Oya Lodge neighbours one of the last remaining communities of the Veddha – the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. We can invite the village chief to take you on a walk through the jungles of his ancestors. Discover and learn about local nature as he brings the forest alive, explaining his tribe’s use of medicinal plants, ancient hunting grounds and cave dwellings. It’s a fascinating insight into how the hunter-gatherers lived in the jungles of Gal Oya.

EXPERIENCE – Jungle Night Walk

Join one of our resident naturalists for a night walk in the forests surrounding the lodge, and have a chance to see some of our nocturnal neighbours as they emerge from their daily resting spots. Use a torch to spot eyes peering back at you that could belong to a number of different animals including amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. One of the highlights is a chance to spot the bizarre looking Frog Mouth bird or if you are really lucky the endangered thick-tailored Pangolin.

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and today you will proceed to the lesser known area, Wellawaya as your next destination.

Optional Activity - Jeep ride & walk through into Gal Oya National park

Gal Oya National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s undiscovered natural treasures. We offer a jeep ride into the forgotten Nilgala section of the park, once the protectorate of ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife unique to this ecosystem. Although shy and sometimes hard to spot, the park hosts most of the animals found on the island, some of the more likely species to look out for include herds of elephants, four species of deer as well as many bird species. Our more intrepid guests may also opt for the hike to the makara river mouth with one of our expert naturalists, to further experience the jungle and for the chance of seeing wildlife on foot.

EXPERIENCE – Ellewala Falls - Jungle Hidden natural pool

Ella Wala Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall lying hidden inside the jungle on the Ella – Wellawaya Road. This waterfall lies hidden inside the jungle about 5 km from Wellawaya Town and the natural pool at the base of the waterfall is the ideal location to enjoy a bath.

EXPERIENCE – Kamatha Candlelit Dining

Enjoy your dinner upon our agricultural pastures, under the starlit sky over mountains and paddy fields that serve as a stunning natural backdrop to your meal.

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel along with a hot cup of tea.

EXPERIENCE – Walk through the paddy fields in the morning and enjoy a home cooked meal.

Start your morning with a walk through the verdant paddy fields of Jetwing Kaduruketha, accompanied by our resident naturalist and learn the nitty-gritties of paddy cultivation and the many varieties of traditional rice, including how they are grown and their many health benefits.

Reveal the rest of day on leisure

After Breakfast, check-out of the hotel and continue your journey to Weligama.

Optional Activity – Hike to the Top of Diyaluma Falls

The foot of the Diyaluma Falls is located 1-hour away from Ella. This 220-meter high waterfall is the 2nd highest waterfall of Sri Lanka, has different levels and natural pools on the top. Water coming down with great force on the rocks is amazing to experience on the foot but exploring the top is new and you need to be a fit to reach this. Once you reach the first part of the waterfall, you will face a series of natural pools and the views are out of this world.

EXPERIENCE – Visit Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is run by the ‘Born Free Foundation’. The Transit home is located about 5km from the Udawalawe National Park and cares to elephants in need, intending to act as a halfway home, so that the elephants can be released back into the wild. We highly recommend you visit this organization!

EXPERIENCE – Soothe your body and soul at the Cape Weligama Spa

Enjoy the scintillating experience of famed Sri Lanka spa hotels, from the sanctity of your own suite or villa. For the ultimate Ceylonese indulgence, Cape Weligama’s experienced therapists come to your Suite or Villa where dedicated spa facilities allow us to pamper you or opt to have a ‘spa day’, at the resort’s dedicated Spa Villa. Organic homegrown Sri Lankan spice scrubs made from clove, nutmeg, sweet orange and sandalwood relieve stress and naturally attend to travel weary muscles while bespoke, essential oil massage blends incorporate Ceylon tea, which is renowned for its antioxidant, anti-ageing and calming properties.

Unwind with a blissful massage on your veranda, or with a fragrant scrub followed by an invigorating herbal steam treatment in your shower room and finally, a sleep inducing soak in your stone bathtub, with your bed just steps away. (To be paid directly)

Reveal the days on leisure! Feel free to have a sunbath by the beach or engage in some of the suggested activities.

Optional Activity - Whale watching in private cruise (7 hours)

We have planned for you a beautiful trip to discover whales in their natural environment. 60.30am departure towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast including fresh fruit, when whales are sighted guests are invited to the bow and upper decks for the best viewing of these incredible creatures.

After enjoying the whales we head towards Weligama Bay, where the yacht anchors near the snake and Taprobane islands- a lovely setting to enjoy swimming and lunch.

Ideal for families, small groups and friends.

Check in time: 06.30am to 01.30pm

Inclusion:

• Welcome Drink

• Breakfast

• Lunch

• Tea/Coffee

• Whale / Dolphins watching

• Swimming

• Stand-up Paddle board

Optional Activity - Whale watching in Shared Boat (3hours)

Mirissa and its breathtaking sandy beach, pretty much transforms your dreams and visions of a tropical paradise into an everyday reality. Located close to the Southern tip of the Island and only about 200 km from the Equator, this secluded crescent shaped beach is the perfect place to sit back and relax as well as Whale Watching.

Whale and dolphin watching is one of the most exciting water activities you can do in Sri Lanka during your holiday and Mirissa is the best place to start.

You can see whales ranging from Blue, Bryde´s, Sperm and Fin whales, the occasional Killer whale and dolphins from Common, Bottlenose, Spinner, Risso's and Striped dolphins. The ever smiling, mischievous dolphins will put on a show while some of the oldest and the largest sea creatures, the humpback and the blue whales, will nonchalantly glide past you, when you embark on a whale/ dolphin watching excursion.

Optional Activity - Customized Surfing Experiences

Take to the waves of Weligama for a memorable surf experience in one of the most beautiful and surf- friendly bays in Sri Lanka.

Take advantage of world-famous Weligama waves while staying here at Cape Weligama. We have customized programs for any keen surfer, from total beginners who want to get a taste of surfing, to those who have surfed before but struggle to catch waves with confidence, all the way to the advanced surfer looking to improve their style. All the surf coaches are International Surfing Association (ISA) certified. Both private and group lessons are available. Alternatively, surfboards are also available for rental.

EXPLORE - Visit Galle Dutch Fort

Galle, the beautiful colonial town along the southern coast that was once the chief port of Sri Lanka and houses the largest occupied Fort in Asia. It is still well known for hand-made lace which was introduced by the Dutch and the UNESCO world heritage site, the Galle Fort. Galle Fort originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663 spans over 90 acres. Asia's largest colonial-built fort has protected a wealth of interesting architecture, now housing galleries, cafes, and shops, or fulfilling their initial intended purpose as law courts and administrative buildings. Nearby beach towns provide an altogether different taste of life in the south of the country.

After breakfast coordinate with your guide and check-out from the hotel in order to your departure flight time.

TIPS:

* We recommend you check-out from the hotel early enough to allow you to reach the airport three hours prior to your departure flight.

* Please discuss the exact time of departure with your chauffeur, who will be happy to advise you based on your flight timing.