HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0)

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1 +44 (0) Sinhalese history can be traced back over three and a half millennia, with the arrival of Buddhism around 250 BC having a major influence on its culture and architecture. An influence that can still be seen today amongst its stunning World Heritage Sites. The later arrival of the Tamils and the Europeans enhanced this cultural mix, to create a unique island that was once described as the finest in all the world. This fascinating journey through the cultural heartland of Sri Lanka takes in the old capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya and the Buddhist treasures of Kandy and Dambulla. You ll also have a chance to explore the Jaffna Peninsula, watch pearl fishermen and discover the pristine coral reefs that lie off its east coast. Along Sri Lanka s beautiful south east coast, you ll then get an opportunity to explore the colonial splendour of Galle, visiting its magnificent coastal fortress and perhaps even enjoying some early morning whale watching, before the drive along the western coast to Colombo and journey s end. HIGHLIGHTS: Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites at Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy See the frescoes at Sigiriya and the pearl fishermen of Mannar Boat trips to Nainathivu Island and Pigeon Island National Park See the impressive temple in Trincomalee, a stronghold of Tamil culture Enjoy the colonial grandeur and beautiful beaches of Galle TOUR INCLUDES: 9 nights in 4 star hotels, 4 nights in boutique hotels and 1 night in a guest house 13 breakfasts and 13 dinners Accompanied by an experienced English speaking private driver-guide and vehicle Sightseeing programme including all entrance fees Private guided transfers to and from Colombo airport *Please note the prices shown above are per person based on two persons sharing a twin or double room

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3 ITINERARY DAY 1: COLOMBO - ANURADHAPURA Your journey begins in Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest city and its de facto capital. Flying into the city today we then head north, driving up towards Anuradhapura, the site of the country's first capital and one of the greatest monastic centres of the ancient world. On arrival in Anuradhapura the rest of the day is free to relax or enjoy some personal exploration before dinner. (D) DAY 2: ANURADHAPURA Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura lay at the heart of Theravada Buddhism for centuries. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth, it is home to some of the most revered religious sites in Asia including the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, believed to have been grown from a cutting from the original Bodhi tree under which the Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment. You'll also have a chance today to visit the Mirisaveti Stupa, Abhayagiri Dagaba and the Isurumiya Temple, the first to be built on the island. (B,D) DAY 3: ANURADHAPURA - MANNAR After breakfast this morning you will leave for the town of Mannar, a busy sea port that was once renowned as a centre for pearl fishing. Home to the historic Thiruketheeswaram Hindu temple, one of the main Eswara temples in the country, Mannar sits on an island overlooking the Gulf of Mannar and our journey takes us via the famous pilgrimage Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu, the holiest Catholic shrine in Sri Lanka. You'll also take in the Dutch fort and the Thiruketheeswaram Temple, before ending at 'Doric Bungalow' to watch the pearl fishermen. (B,D) DAY 4: MANNAR - JAFFNA Head for the historic city of Jaffna today, capital of Sri Lanka's northern provinces. Hemmed in to the south and the west by Jaffna Lagoon, the city served as the power-base of the Jaffna Kingdom of the 13th-17th centuries and in later years came under the influence of the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. The journey there today takes us via the newly built Sanguppidy Bridge, which connects the Jaffna Peninsula with the mainland. We'll also visit the Dutch fort at Pooneryn, before taking a tour of Jaffna's Public Library, its Nallur Kandaswamy Temple and its imposing Dutch Fortress. (B,D)

4 DAY 5: JAFFNA A boat trip to nearby Nainathivu Island provides an opportunity to visit the Naga Poosari Amman Hindu Temple and the ancient Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple, said to occupy a spot blessed by the Lord Buddha during his second visit to Sri Lanka. Other sightseeing today includes the Buddhist ruins at Kadurugoda, the therapeutic hot springs at Keeramalai and the temple at Dambakolapatuna, where the sacred Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura first reached Sri Lanka's shores. (B,D) DAY 6: JAFFNA - TRINCOMALEE Lying along the eastern coast, some 113miles south of Jaffna, is the port city of Trincomalee. A traditional stronghold of Tamil culture, the city is one of the oldest in Asia and was a major maritime trading centre during the island's long history of trade with South East Asia. A tour this afternoon takes in Fort Frederick and the city's famous Koneswaram Temple (The Temple of the Thousand Pillars). You'll also visit the Vilgam Vehera, one of the oldest shrines in the Eastern Province, where one of the first saplings of the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi was planted. (B,D) DAY 7: TRICOMALEE A boat cruise out to the Pigeon Island National Park today presents a chance to visit one of Sri Lanka's two maritime parks. Home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the country, the park provides a rich haven for more than 100 different types of coral, some 300 species of reef fish, black tip reef sharks, hawksbill and green turtles and breeding colonies of rock pigeons. (B,D) DAY 8: TRINCOMALEE - SIGIRIYA Turning away from the coast, we head next for the ancient city of Sigiriya, located in the central Matale District. On arrival we'll drive to its famous Sky Fortress and climb the imposing slopes of the Lion Rock to the summit. Built during the 5th century, this is one of Sri Lanka's major attractions and from its lofty heights the views out across the lush landscapes are truly spectacular. In the company of your guide you'll have a chance to enjoy the colourful frescoes of the famous Sigiriya Damsels and the ruins of the old palace of King Kassapa, before continuing to the hotel. (B,D) DAY 9: SIGIRIYA - POLONNARUWA - SIGIRIYA Visit the old medieval capital of Polonnaruwa today, a city that reached the height of its glory during the 12th century. Another of Sri Lanka's wonderful World Heritage Sites, the city is filled with a rich collection of ancient buildings and monuments. You'll visit the magnificent ruins of its Royal Palace, with its Audience Hall, Bathing Pool and Quadrangle. You'll also take in the curious Circular Relic House and the colossal carved figures of the Galvihara, hewn out of solid granite. After the visit you will return to Sigiriya. (B,D)

5 DAY 10: SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - KANDY The journey to Kandy takes us by way of the UNESCO caves at Dambulla, where you'll find a remarkable collection of temples and statues that date back to the 1st century BC. Filled with images of the Buddha and sculptures of the Hindu gods, the caves have become an important pilgrimage site for countless thousands of worshippers, with the largest of the caves containing some 48 statues of the Buddha. Continuing on to the Matale Spice Gardens, you'll then get a chance to join a tour to learn more about the use of spices in day to day life, before completing the journey to Kandy. (B,D) DAY 11: KANDY The last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, Kandy is one of the country's cultural jewels. Home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, the city still retains a sense of its old world charm and a guided tour of some of its highlights includes the beautiful Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, one of the finest of its kind in Asia. Home to over 5,000 different species of flora, during WWII this was the headquarters of Lord Mountbatten, supreme commander of the Allied forces in Burma. A visit to the Gem Museum is followed this evening with a traditional performance of Kandyan dancing. (B,D) DAY 12: KANDY - GALLE Another of Sri Lanka's impressive World Heritage Sites, Galle, on Sri Lanka's beautiful southwestern coast, is home to the largest European fortress left in Asia. Colonised by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it is still infused today with a graceful charm that perfectly encapsulates its European heritage and a wander through its meandering streets reveals a wealth of ageing colonial buildings. (B,D) DAY 13: GALLE There is an option this morning to join an early whale and dolphin watching trip at Mirissa (optional). The journey there provides an opportunity to stop off and watch some fishermen practicing the traditional art of stilt fishing, a custom unique to Sri Lanka and kept alive today by about 500 families that still fish these southern coastal waters. (B,D) DAY 14: GALLE - COLOMBO Driving back along the coast to Colombo this morning, you will arrive back at the city's international airport in time to catch your return flight home. (B)

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7 ACCOMMODATION ANURADHAPURA ALAKAMANDA HOTEL Alakamanda hotel is conveniently located close to the city of Anuradhapura, ancient capital of the Sinhala Kingdom, in Sri Lanka s cultural triangle. The hotel provides easy access to the other ancient Buddhist sites in the region. All of the 14 rooms either have a balcony or veranda overlooking the lush green exteriors. The rooms are simple and elegantly furnished. The restaurant offers Sri Lankan as well as multi cuisine food. GALLE 41 LIGHTHOUSE STREET This private villa located in the heart of Galle Fort has only three guestrooms, so guests can expect ultimate relaxation and privacy. The tastefully decorated rooms are all air-conditioned with private en suite bathrooms, king-sized beds and plush bedding. Relax by the pool in the quaint outdoor terrace, use the free Wi-Fi in the library, or enjoy a meal cooked freshly to order by your own personal chef. Located at just a short walk from the shops and restaurants, guests can look forward to returning back to the comforts of 41 Lighthouse Street after a day of sightseeing. JAFFNA MARGOSA VILLA Margosa Villa is only 10km from Jaffna City Centre however is far from the hustle and bustle of the city and is truly an oasis of tranquillity. Margosa Villa is a beautifully decorated 19th century colonial manor with a well maintained and landscaped one acre garden. The villa is made up of 6 spacious, air-conditioned rooms and also has an airy and spacious courtyard restaurant that offers a variety of western dishes and local delicacies. This sublime villa gives visitors the opportunity to unwind and relax in complete harmony and is a great destination for holiday makers and leisure seekers alike. KANDY THE CITADEL Nestled between the misty hills and meandering Mahaweli River is the four star Cinnamon Citadel retreat. Not far from Kandy, escape the bustling hill capital that was the last domain of the Sinhala Kings. The modern amenities paired with traditional Kandyan art make you feel as if you are still in the realm of the kings. Each room has panoramic views, air-conditioning and en suite bathrooms. The outdoor pool overlooks the river providing peace and serenity. Go up to the balcony terrace for even better views of the river and the surrounding lush forest. There is a restaurant serving a la carte food and a bar and games area. The hotel offers nature walks and boat rides in search of the forests natural inhabitants. MANNAR

8 THE PALMYRAH HOUSE The Palmyrah House is a simple yet comfortable guest house based on Mannar Island. The five rooms all have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms and access to either the upstairs or downstairs shared verandas a great place to relax and take in the view of the surrounding garden or jungle. In order to keep in line with the natural feel, the guest house tries to use local resources as much as possible and the verandas have been built using wood from the local Palmyrah tree. What s more, there are no TVs in the rooms, however guests can enjoy a swim in the outdoor swimming pool or try a Sri Lankan meal in the restaurant. SIGIRIYA SIGIRIYA VILLAGE HOTEL Offering splendid views of the Sigiriya rock fortress, the three star Sigiriya Hotel is ideally located in the heartland of the Cultural Triangle, which is rich in historical sites, archaeological treasures, primary works of art and scenic beauty. This exclusive jungle retreat boasts elegantly designed earth-toned cottages, well decorated with rustic village life themes. The management prides itself in its green initiatives and environmentally friendly projects are continually being introduced. The open-air restaurant serves both international and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a colourful and warm atmosphere. The swimming pool is located in a private courtyard with breath-taking views of the rock and wilderness. There is also an Ayurvedic health centre specially designed to offer guests a taste of indigenous herbal health care. TRINCOMALEE CHAAYA BLU Located on the water s edge, Chaaya Blu four star hotel offers beautiful views across the ocean with modern rooms. The hotel s 81 en suite rooms all have a clean and comfortable feel to them, as well as offering all the modern amenities that guests could need, including free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities and a minibar. When staying at Chaaya Blu, guests have plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the nautical setting; take a stroll along the beach, a dip in the infinity pool or simply enjoy a meal from one of the two restaurants, The Captain s Deck, The Crab or a cocktail at the hotel bar The Rum Hold. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0) info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com