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Your Holiday Proposal

PROPOSAL ID: 20250205-SL-1422

On this grand tour, you’ll visit Sri Lanka and Bhutan, two of the most enchanting and hospitable countries of the Indian subcontinent. Sri Lanka’s tropical warmth and natural beauty provide an exotic backdrop for its traditions, history and culture. Bhutan has remained an exotic enigma for long, and is winning hearts with its unique culture and values.

Sample the best of Sri Lanka, including the Cultural Triangle with some of Asia’s greatest archaeological treasures, the lush slopes of the Hill Country with its expansive vistas of rolling tea plantations and beautifully renovated British-era tea bungalows, and the historic cities. This relaxed trip not only takes in some of the island’s best historical sights but gets you up close and personal to Sri Lankan life. Spend time at a picture-perfect beach, watch wildlife at the best National Parks, go whale watching in one the best whale watching spots worldwide, and let the gentle evening breeze soothe your mind as you sip cold beer in your hotel on relaxed evenings. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with warm welcomes and smiles, as much a part of Sri Lankan experience as its ancient monuments, wildlife and fine teas.

Fly across India into Bhutan a magical Kingdom, where we focus on Western Bhutan – the heartland of the Drukpa people, home to the treasures of Paro and Thimphu, and of the most spectacular dzongs in the kingdom. As you fly into the dramatic, mountain-bound Paro valley, it soon becomes clear that you have arrived at a special destination. Prayer flags fluttering everywhere, people dressed traditionally, chortens and stupas dot the landscape, and fortress-like monasteries command the craggy mountains.

Amidst peaceful scenery and welcoming smiles, your adventure awaits.

Created/Updated: February 5, 2025
Route:
Negombo – Wilpattu – Cultural Triangle – Hill Country – Yala – Mirissa – Galle – Negombo -Delhi – Paro – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro
Themes:
Activity Levels
Leisurely Active
WHAT'S INCLUDED
  • Activities and excursions as specified in itineraries
  • Entrance fees/tickets for all monuments, safaris etc
  • All in-destination transfers & transport in A/C vehicles with safe and experienced driver
  • Accommodation & Meals as specified
  • English speaking experienced guides and naturalists
  • 24/7 support throughout your holiday

Your itinerary in detail

Day 1:
Arrive in Sri Lanka, at Colombo’s international airport. You’ll be met by our representative and transfer to your hotel in Negombo.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Hotel- Arie Lagoon or Similar (BB basis)

Day 2:
Take in the colours and sights of Negombo. Journey the streets of Negombo on foot. Here, fishermen bring fresh catch at the Negombo fish market. Temples and churches attest to the multi-faith community of the island. The remains of a Dutch fort show colonial remnants – much to explore on your morning city tour.
Later, drive to Wilpattu (4 hr)
Hotel – Thimbiri wewa Resort or Similar (BB basis)

Day 3:
Morning and afternoon safaris in Wilpattu for wildlife watching.
Unspoilt and beautiful Wilpattu is one of the largest and oldest National Parks in Sri Lanka. Wilpattu’s most famous residents are leopards and sloth bears. Chances of sightings are good. It is also possible to see Elephants, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Pig, Asiatic Buffalo and Crocodiles. There are several species of butterflies, endemic birds, reptiles, snakes and amphibians to complement the big game.
Hotel – Thimbiri wewa Resort or Similar (BB basis)

Day 4:
Hiriwaduna Village Experience with Lunch, enroute to Sigiriya (2.5hrs)
Experience Hiriwadunna Village Experience to discover the charm of Hiriwadunna village, where tranquil rural life comes alive amidst lush greenery and serene waterways. Immerse yourself in authentic traditions, scenic walks, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Drive onwards to Sigiriya.

Hotel – Amara Forrest or Similar (BB basis)

Day 5:
Visit Dambulla Cave Temples which is famous for rock paintings and sculptures. Dambulla is considered as the oldest art gallery of the country. The paintings found on the rock ceiling shows the influence of Kandyan School of paintings became prominent in the 18th – 19th century in Sri Lanka.

Afterwards, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. From the tenth century AD the capital of the most powerful kingdom in the island shifted to Polonnaruwa from Anuradhapura. The greatest king of Polonnaruwa was Parakramabahu I (1153 –1186 AD). In his ‘golden reign’ the whole area flourished and several new building projects were started. The buildings were grand and impressive such as the Royal Palace and the Lankathilaka image house. The Gal Vihara with its great sculptures of the Buddha was created.
Hotel – Amara Forrest or Similar (BB basis)

Day 6:
This morning, begin with a visit and climb up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress which dominates the landscape and was both a military refuge as well as an aesthetic refuge for king who was a patron of the arts. Sigiriya became world famous for the frescos found on the western surface of the rock about 100 mts above the ground level. Ancient gardens from the 5th century survive at the foot of the rock.

Enjoy an afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park. Minneriya is dominated by the Minneriya tank and surrounding flood plains, forest and wooded hills. A wetland of international importance, Minneriya is home to Asian Elephants and is exceptionally rich in bird and wildlife.
Hotel- Amara Forrest or Similar (BB basis)

Day 7:
Drive to Kandy (3 hrs).

Visit the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy’s famous landmark and holiest shrine in the island.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural dance show in Kandy
Hotel- Hotel Thilanka or Similar (BB basis)

Day 8:
This morning, you’ll experience the most scenic train journey in Sri Lanka. Your guide will drop you at Kandy railway station and pick you again from Nanu Oya railway station. (3 hours train ride). Depending on the availability, we will provide you A/C first class/observation class train tickets.

Hotel- Araliya Red or Similar (BB basis)

Day 9:
This morning, visit Horton Plains National Park. Horton Plains National Park is the only National Park in Sri Lanka where visitors are allowed to walk freely inside. It is situated 2200 m above sea in the central highlands of SriLanka, approximately 20 km south of Nuwara Eliya and covers 3162 hectares in extent. The climate here is a wet montane climate with a mean annual temperature of 15 centigrade. The vegetation in Horton Plains is defined as Montane Rainforests or Cloud Forests which shows gnarled and stunted growth not exceeding 15 meters in height. Horton Plains is famous for the World’s End, a stunning viewpoint, which is a sheer drop of 870 meters hidden in clouds, and Baker Falls.

This afternoon, visit a tea plantation and the tea factory to learn all about tea estates and cultivation of one of Sri Lanka’s finest exports. A relaxed evening back at the hotel.
Drive to Nuwara Eliya.
Hotel- Oak-Ray Ella Gap or similar (BB basis)

Day 10:
Explore the breath-taking beauty of Ella, where lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and iconic landmarks like Ella Rock and Nine Arches Bridge await. This picturesque hill town offers a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and stunning views.

Check into your hotel in Yala and relax for the evening.
Hotel- Tamarind Tree (BB basis)

Day 11:
Morning and Afternoon Safari at the Yala National Park, looking for leopards, sloth bears, elephants and other wild animals.
Hotel- Tamarind Tree (BB basis)

Day 12:
After a relaxed breakfast, leave for Mirissa (2 hrs drive)
Enjoy the rest of the day at the Mirissa beach.
Hotel – Mandara Mirissa or Similar (BB basis)

Day 13:
Early morning whale watching by a shared boat.
Later, drive to Galle (1hrs), get a guided tour of World Heritage Galle city and Fort.

Hotel- Jetwing Galle Heritage Villa

Day 14:
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your last day of your holiday. Walk along Galle’s streets and enjoy the sea breeze.

You’ll be driven to the airport in time to catch your flight (2.5hrs). The Sri Lanka Airways flight  to Delhi departs at 1410, arrives in Delhi at 1745.

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will transfer to your hotel near the airport and relax for the night.

Hotel -Lemon Tree Aerocity or similar (BB)

Day 15:

Fly from Delhi to Paro (Druk Air 1230-1520), On your fight into Bhutan you will have breath-taking views of the High Himalayan peaks. At Paro airport you will be welcomed by our representative.

Drive east into Thimphu (2 hrs) on well-maintained roads, through the beautiful Paro valley.

Hotel  – Thimphu (FB)

Day 16:

Today, you’ll explore Thimphu’s cultural delights, starting with Cheri Goemba where there are great photography opportunities. Returning to Thimphu city, visit Motithang Takin Reserve to meet one of Bhutan’s most enigmatic mammals, the Takin. If the Rhododenrons are in bloom, you’ll visit to the Royal Botanical Park.

Later, you’ll visit the Thimphu market, a colourful and interesting place where you will find many photographic opportunities.. Then proceed to Trashi Chho Dzong, and Kuensal Phodrang for the giant Buddha statue.

Your guide will be able to tailor your day based on your interests, and plan visits to the museums and places of interest.

As time permits, visit some of Thimphu’s many cultural sights: choose from the Textile Museum, the Institute of Traditional Medicine, Folk Heritage museum, the School of Fine Arts; the National library; the Post Office; and the National Memorial Chorten. On our way back to the hotel, stop by Changlimithang Stadium, the national archery ground to see the Bhutanese practicing their archery skills!

Hotel- Thimphu (FB)

Day 17:

An early morning drive (3hrs) east to the milder and warmer climate of Punakha climbs through apple orchards and forests of blue pine before entering pristine mixed forests. The pass at Dochu La (3,116m), is an awe-inspiring sight; with prayer flags strewn across its width. Sip warm tea until dawn breaks over the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Proceed down to the green terraced fields, famous for growing red rice around Punakha. A gentle walk to the temple of Chemmi Lhakhang; perhaps in time to hear the monks at prayer in this tranquil rural landscape. In the afternoon walk around Punakha Dzong (1637). This pristine environment is also a nature-lovers paradise where we may catch sight of the rare and endangered White-bellied Heron. Punakha Dzong is considered to be one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. Inside the dzong is the Kuenrey, a beautiful temple housing the ‘hundred-pillar’ assembly hall with exceptional murals, enormous 18th century golden statues, and most surprising of all is the high ceiling, exquisitely painted with hundreds of dragons.

We have chosen the afternoon when the light is perfect to bring the richness of the paintings and a quieter time to enjoy the ambience of this remarkable dzong.

Hotel – Punanka (FB)

Day 18:

Day trip to Gangtey and Phobjika Valley
After breakfast, drive to Paro (3.5 hrs) and check into your hotel. After lunch, visit the National Museum and the Rinpung Dzong. Walk around the city streets and markets.

Hotel – Punakha (FB)

Day 19:

Drive to Paro (3 hrs), and explore the city.

  • Ta Dzong : Built in 1656 as a watchtower for Rinpung Dzong is now used as the National Museum which is a repository of not only precious works of art but also costumes, armour and other hand crafted objects of daily life that provide a good snapshot of the rich cultural traditions of the country. It opens 7 days a week except on National Holidays.
  • Rinpung Dzong: Built in 1646 by Lama Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal and strategically located to thwart Tibetan incursions into the rest of the country, this Dzong became one of Bhutan’s strongest and most important fortresses.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: It was built in 659 by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The temple fell into disrepair but was superbly restored in 1839 by the 25th Je Khempo (Chief Abbot). He also contributed the outstanding statue of Avalokiteshwara, with eleven heads and thousand arms, which is located in the sanctuary.

Hotel – Paro(FB)

Day 20:

Today, we visit the Taktsang Monastery, Tiger’s Nest! This is probably the most iconic Bhutanese image. We will walk up the steep uphill walk through the shade of dappled woodlands for approximately 1½-2hrs to reach the cafeteria and have refreshments before continuing to the top. Should you not wish to continue to the top, you will be able to wait in this area. There are mules available if you wish to ride to the top, but you’ll have to walk down on foot.

A further half hour’s ascent above the tea house brings you to another viewpoint directly across from the monastery. The final section of the walk takes you from this viewpoint steeply down 100m/330ft into the gorge that separates you from the monastery and then climbs back up to reach the gate – Taktsang was designed to be isolated!

The monastery has four main temples and several buildings to house monks. Painted white with golden roofs, with interconnected steps carved into the rock and balconies with breath-taking views. The temples are extremely impressive with gold-plated domes, flickering light that dances off the golden images of Buddha, the paintings and sculptures of the Bhutanese saints. Perhaps the most impressive of all is the Hall of One Thousand Buddhas, carved into the rock with a large statue of a tiger, the respected symbol of Taktsang and the legend of that this location was chosen by the tigress that brought the Padma Sambhava to the country.

Returning to the tea-house, we will stop for lunch and enjoy the magnificent view of Taktsang before continuing down through the wooded hillside to our waiting vehicles and drive into Paro town where you will have some free time to wander around quaint shops that sell everything from groceries to textiles.

Hotel – Paro(FB)

Day 21:

Transfer to Paro airport and board your flight to Delhi (1155-1345). Connect to your departure to UK

 

Please let us know how you feel about this itinerary, remember we'll be more than happy perfecting it to your satisfaction.

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Includes:
• Hotel Accommodation
• All transfers with A/C Car
• English speaking chauffeur
• Breakfast
• Train tickets- A/c first class/observation
• All entrance fees for site visits
• 1 Airport transfer each way
• Government taxes

Bhutan Visa, and SDF are included.

EXCLUDES:

  • Any Flights

City – Hotel Name – No of Nights

  • Negombo – Arie Lagoon – 1
  • Wilpattu – Thimbri Wewa – 2
  • Sigiriya – Amari Forrest – 3
  • Kandy – Thilanka – 1
  • Nuwara Eliya – Araliya Red – 1
  • Ella – Oak-Ray Ella Gap –
  • Yala – Tamarind Tree – 2
  • Galle – Jetwing Galle Heritage Villa 1
  • Delhi  -Lemon Tree Aerocity or similar 1
  • Thimphu – Hotel Thimphu or similar 1
  • Punakha – Zingkham Resort or similar 1
  • Paro – Hotel Olathang or similar 1

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Our Accommodation Ratings

Opulent: Exceptional, unashamedly the best of sheer luxury. (£££££)

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