Day 02: Whale Watching and Beach Exploration

After an early breakfast, you will embark on an exciting whale-watching excursion in the deep sea off the coast of Mirissa. This area is renowned for offering some of the finest whale and dolphin sightings in the world. Board a special boat for a shared dolphin and whale-watching tour, where you may be fortunate enough to spot Blue Whales, the largest creatures on Earth, as well as Bride’s Whales, Sperm Whales, Killer Whales, and Fin Whales. In addition to these majestic whales, you’ll also have the chance to see playful pods of dolphins such as Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, Risso’s Dolphins, and Striped Dolphins, as they dance and somersault across the ocean waves. Keep an eye out for other marine life, such as flying fish, turtles, manta rays, and even sharks. Whale watching is best between November and April, and this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

After your unforgettable whale-watching experience, you will head to Unawatuna, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous beach destinations. This lovely, banana-shaped beach is known for its golden sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the surrounding green palm trees. Unawatuna also boasts vibrant coral reefs, making it a great spot for eco-tourism. A local attraction, the Kadolana Mangrove (marshland), was once considered for development into a hotel by a German hotel chain, but the project was never completed, leaving the area shrouded in local lore. Many locals believe that the site was cursed due to its proximity to the Wella Devalaya temple.

Next, you'll visit Weligama Beach, known for its iconic stilt fishermen. These fishermen, often perched on a single pole in chest-deep water just offshore, practice an ancient method of fishing that dates back to just after World War II. Despite the challenges of balance and skill, stilt fishing remains a fascinating traditional method still practiced along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, particularly in towns like Koggala, Kaththaluwa, and Ahangama. While the 2004 tsunami temporarily halted this practice, it has since resumed, offering visitors a unique and picturesque sight of fishermen working at dawn, noon, and dusk.In the evening, you’ll return to your hotel for an overnight stay on a Half Board (HB) Basic basis, ready to rest after a day full of adventure.

? Overnight Stay: Hotel in Mirissa ? Meals: Breakfast /Dinner Included

Plan for Tour Itinerary Activities:

• ·         Early Morning: Depart for a thrilling Whale & Dolphin Watching excursion.
• ·         Experience the awe-inspiring sight of Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, and playful dolphin pods in the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Mirissa.
• ·         Visit Weligama Fisherman’s Bay, where you can witness the traditional stilt fishing method in action. Watch the fishermen skillfully balance on poles as they cast their lines into the sea.
• ·         Relax and enjoy some leisure time at the beach. Take a refreshing dip in the sea or sunbathe on the soft sands, soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
• ·         Evening: At 7:00 PM, meet with your tour guide to discuss the activities for the next day
• ·         Return to your hotel for a peaceful night’s rest.
• ·         Enjoy your overnight stay on a Half Board (HB) Basic basis,

Day 03: Bentota - Via Galle, Meetiyagoda, Ambalangoda, and Balapitiya

After breakfast, you will depart for Bentota, with scenic stops en route at key cultural and historical sites. Sri Lanka is renowned for its stunning tropical beaches, kissed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Here, you’ll have ample time to relax on the pristine white sandy beaches, listening to the soothing sound of the waves after a day of travel

Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle Fort is located in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588, it was later extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Despite being over 432 years old, the fort remains beautifully preserved due to restoration work by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. Explore its historical and architectural significance as you walk through its cobbled streets and charming buildings.

Moonstone Mine – Meetiyagoda: Located just 4 km from the ocean, Meetiyagoda is famous for its moonstone mines. Moonstone, a gemstone with a rich history, has been used in jewelry for millennia. The ancient Romans believed the stone was made from the rays of the moon, while it became popular again during the Art Nouveau period. Visit the mines to learn about the fascinating history and significance of this precious stone.

Marks Factory – Ambalangoda: Visit the Ambalangoda Mask Workshop and Museum, a place renowned for its mask-making tradition. Masks in Sri Lanka are deeply tied to the country's culture and history, used in traditional dances and performances. The Ambalangoda area is home to expert mask artisans, and the workshop offers an opportunity to witness this centuries-old craft and learn about its cultural significance.

Madu River Safari – Balapitiya: The Madu Ganga (Madu River) is the second largest wetland in Sri Lanka, spanning over 900 hectares. It is home to 64 islands, of which 15 have larger landmasses. Rich in biodiversity, Madu Ganga features mangrove forests and is home to 300 species of plants and 250 species of wildlife. Explore this serene ecosystem on a boat safari, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

Turtle Hatchery: Visit a Turtle Hatchery where you can learn about the conservation efforts for the Green Turtle, the most commonly found turtle species in Sri Lanka. These turtles play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, and you’ll have the opportunity to see baby turtles and learn about the important conservation work being done to protect them.

Once you reach Bentota, you’ll have plenty of time to unwind on the stunning palm-fringed beach, relax by the pool, or explore the area at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful tropical surroundings of Sri Lanka.In the evening, relax at your hotel for an overnight stay on a Half Board (HB) Basic basis.
? Overnight Stay: Hotel in Bentota ? Meals: Breakfast /Dinner Included

Plan for Tour Itinerary Activities

• ·         7:00 AM: After breakfast, depart for Galle. Visit the historic Dutch Fort and lighthouse,
• ·         explore the charming streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• ·         En route, stop by a Spice Garden to learn about the rich spice heritage of Sri Lanka.
• ·         Continue your journey to Meetiyagoda, famous for its Moonstone Mine.
• ·         Discover the fascinating history of moonstones and their importance in Sri Lankan jewelry.
• ·         Next, visit Ambalangoda to explore the Marks Factory.
• ·         Learn about the traditional craft of mask-making, a cultural art form deeply embedded in Sri Lankan heritage.
• ·         Afterward, take a relaxing Madu River Safari to explore the lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife of the Madu Ganga.
• ·         Visit the Turtle Hatchery in Ahungalla, where you'll learn about the conservation
• ·         efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s endangered turtle species.
• ·         In the evening, sit down with your tour guide to discuss the next day's itinerary and activities at 7:00 PM.
• ·         Relax and unwind at your hotel in Bentota, followed by an overnight stay.

Day 04 - Bentota

Bentota is a historically significant area mentioned in ancient messenger poems (Sandeśa Kāvya). One of the notable sites here is the Galapatha Viharaya, part of a cluster of five ancient temples in the region. During the 17th century, the Portuguese built a small fort at the mouth of the Bentota River (Bentara Ganga), known as Parangi Kotuwa in Sinhala, which translates to the "fort of the Portuguese." This river marked the southern boundary of Portuguese-held territory in Sri Lanka.

The Dutch later allowed the fort to fall into disrepair, converting one of its large buildings into a colonial rest house for Dutch officers traveling between Colombo and Galle. The British subsequently turned the rest house into a coastal sanatorium. In his book, Ceylon: An Account of the Island (1859), Sir James Emerson Tennent (1804-1869), the Colonial Secretary of Ceylon, described the Bentota rest house as "one of the coolest and most agreeable in Ceylon," situated within a small park shaded by lofty Tamarind trees, where the river meets the sea.

In the early 19th century, the British introduced the railway, primarily to transport coconut produce from the Deep South to the capital. They also built a permanent bridge, the Bentota Palama, to cross the river. Overnight stay at the same hotel in Bentota, HB (Bed and Breakfast/Dinner Included)

? Overnight Stay: Hotel in Bentota ? Meals: Breakfast /Dinner Included

Plan for Tour Itinerary Activities:

• ·         After breakfast, visit Galapatha Viharaya, one of the five ancient temples in the region.
• ·          Explore the Bentota Palama, a permanent bridge that crosses the Bentota River.
• ·         Visit Lunuganga, the estate and gardens of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, known for its scenic beauty and architectural design.
• ·         Take a Bentota city tour, exploring local attractions and shopping for souvenirs.
• ·         Relax on the Bentota beach, unwind, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
• ·         In the evening, plan the next day's activities by discussing the tour with your guide (7:00 PM).
• ·          Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05: Colombo

Colombo, the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition. Known for its bustling streets, historical landmarks, and thriving culture, it offers a perfect final chapter to your Sri Lankan journey.

After a fulfilling tour, you'll be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport, approximately a 4-hour drive from Colombo, depending on traffic. The journey will give you a last glimpse of Sri Lanka's scenic beauty before you catch your flight back home.

As your tour comes to an end, you’ll depart with fond memories of your travels in Sri Lanka.

 Transfer to BIA in Colombo ? Meals: Breakfast Included

Plan for Tour Itinerary Activities:

• ·         Based on your flight schedule, start with a Colombo City Tour, visiting key attractions such as the Colombo Water Temple and the scenic Galle Face Green Terrace, where you can enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful views.
• ·         Explore the historic Old Parliament House, an iconic colonial-era building, and take a brief visit to Galle Face Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Sri Lanka with a rich history.
• ·         After the tour, head back to Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight departure.
• ·         End of Tour.