Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Asia sticks to you. From the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan to the frenetic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent so full of intrigue, adventure, solace & spirituality that it has fixated & confounded travellers for centuries. Wrapped in rainforests, edged by golden sands, crowned by volcanoes, studded with ruins of lost civilisations: this is Asia as you have always imagined it. The joss sticks lit for the household shrines in Thailand impart a sweet perfume to the thick air & the heavenly aroma of Indian spices follows you for days

Welcome to idyllic Sri Lanka - with its endless Beaches, timeless Ruins, welcoming People, oodles of Elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun Trains, famous Tea & flavourful Food. You might say Ceylon has been hiding in plain sight. Few places have as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites (8) packed into such a small area. Sri Lanka's 2000 plus years of culture can be discovered at ancient sites where legendary Temples boast beautiful details even as they shelter in caves or perch on prominent peaks. More recent are evocative colonial Fortresses, from Galle to Trincomalee. Across the Island, that thing that goes bump in the night might be an Elephant heading to a favourite waterhole.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant Colombo, with its ‘erstwhile’ 19^th century moniker of 'the Garden City of the East'. It makes an excellent start - or finish - to your Sri Lankan adventures.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & introduce you to the Driver. You will then be transferred Horathapola Estate (1 hour away) in the suburbs.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

On the way from the Airport stop for a delicious Tambili (King Coconut) to quench your thirst & rehydrate after a long flight.

Reach Horathapola Estate nestled within the balmy vibe of rural Sri Lanka, amidst idyllic surroundings. It has received mention in leading travel publications like Conde Nast and Travel & Leisure etc.

Check-in & unwind & soak up the essence of Island living. Balancing local charm with quiet serenity, it is the perfect place to unwind & recharge.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the many options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions for “optional’ programs & make arrangements).

Nestled within an expansive 50 acres organic Coconut Plantation & lush tropical Gardens, with a peaceful rural Sri Lanka backdrop, the Estate is a tastefully appointed, meticulously renovated Mansion with a history that spans over a century, offering contemporary comforts coupled with local charm that will entice you from the moment you step onto the stylish heritage Bungalow.

Built in 1922, the Bungalow is an ancestral home which has been lovingly restored into a Holiday Villa, featuring touches of modern luxury that compliment the stateliness of its colonial architecture. The past heritage is reflected in the priceless collection of unique Sri Lankan antique furniture found within, some as old as the Bungalow itself, which features 5 spacious Bedrooms with en-suite, airy oversized bathrooms with hot water, each beautiful, light-filled, expansive room, lovingly decorated with the finest linens, has its unique view of the verdant Garden, gently shaded Balconies, Patios & Verandas.

All rooms have their own design aesthetic with high ceilings, hand-carved large 4 poster beds, air-conditioning as well as fans & each room extends into a spacious, private sitting area that looks out to a vista of foliage.

The Bungalow has multiple common areas as well as ample nooks & crannies to quietly curl up with a book. The Library & large, common dining area are downstairs looking out across the garden & the cuisine is a riot of colour & flavour. So, in true colonial style, afternoon tea is a celebrated event at Horathapola. From homemade cheesecake with a pot of organic tea, to a chilled brew to go with ‘cheese-toast’, the Chef takes all meals seriously.

Sri Lankan cooking is more art than science – recipes are mere guidelines. Fragrant, delicious, wholesome & nourishing, it is no wonder that it is among the top global food trends year after year. Making curry requires a deft touch to balance the heat of the spices with the sweetness of coconut milk, a well-measured tinge of acidity from tamarind & lime, to the perfect combination of fresh herbs that give the flavours a slight lift onto the palate all so that the complex flavours of the cuisine can be appreciated to the fullest. The kitchen uses typical rural techniques – fresh spices are ground on a stone, curries are cooked in clay pots over earthen fires & most of our ingredients come straight from the Garden.

The vast, immaculately manicured emerald green Garden extends into the Plantation, where Pepper, Cashew, Clove, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Lemongrass & many more tropical Herbs & Spices are grown. Neatly planted rows of organic Coconut & an abundance of tropical Fruits & Vegetables - Jackfruit, Soursop, Tamarind, Mango & Guava while Rice paddies skirt the periphery, all grown organically & sustainably, supporting around 30 families in the adjacent village.

The Garden that skirts the building, features a salt-water swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, walking trails & vibrant birdlife

The Estate provides an encounter with rural Sri Lankan life & engage in a truly local experience. Those interested in experiencing the true essence & slow, peaceful lifestyle, can grab one of the complimentary bikes & take a ride around the well-manicured, immaculate Estate or along gravel roads, into the villages & rural countryside where smiles are plentiful on sunburnt faces, where food is cooked on earthen stoves, where green is the dominant colour in the landscape, where life is lived slowly. Explore village trails as you ride by the village Temples & paddy-fields. Stop & visit an organic Coconut Oil manufacturer.

If you feel adventurous, accompany one of the Staff on a visit to the local “Pola” (Farmers Market), a weekly village affair that is a riot of colours & smells. The open-air Markets are the centre of trade & have a vibrant buzz of activity, with vendors trying to out-yell each other while buyers jockey for position at their favourite Stall to get to the freshest produce. See sacks of red chillies & garden-fresh greens, vividly coloured & shaped vegetables & fruits and more types of grain that you can possibly imagine. The scent of hot, spicy, freshly made street food wafts through, tempting you to try some of the famous “Vadey” or dhal-fritters. You will notice there are no digital weighing scales & the old-fashioned balance scale with weights is still the primary instrument of measure. Get to know the people who are benefiting from your purchase (by just staying at the Plantation).

Or you can hop into the complimentary Bungalow bullock cart for a unique & enjoyable ride, exploring the nearby Plantations.

Walking along the paddy fields at magical sunset or sunrise, accompany by Staff, is especially enjoyable. You will be able to see how rice is grown in Sri Lanka, meet the farmers & have a chance to snap some beautiful photos. As you walk along the trails under the shade of swaying coconut trees, you will learn all about the coconut industry, products made using coconuts as well as the observe the fascinating day to day operations of the Plantations.

Visitors can also visit & interact with one of the local families producing Cashews, grown in Sri Lanka for centuries & now considered a delicacy across the world. The locals use it for their daily cooking & roasting.

Come back to the Bungalow in time for Lunch.

Evening, let the love affair with Sri Lankan cuisine begins!

Time to experience the most delicious Black Pork curry & an array of home cooked curries of the local area which is largely Christian. All ingredients are freshly picked from the Estate’s Gardens, including a lot of the Spices used.

Retire to your balcony with a good book and a cup of Ceylon Tea.

Early morning, depart for Kandy.

Enroute, stop in the town of Dambulla, one of Sri Lanka's biggest wholesale Market town.

Dambulla, is an often forgotten destination & for the most part, remains off the tourist trail. However, it is a true typical Sri Lankan city & offers a more authentic experience. The Streets are busy & there are 100s of Restaurants to try out.

At the cheerful Dambulla Fruit & Vegetable Market, that provides a lively & colorful spectacle, with the intense movement of people & goods, even if you are not looking to buy a truckload of bananas, this huge Wholesale Market south of the centre, offers a fascinating look at the vast range of produce grown in Sri Lanka. What you see being carted about with manic energy (be careful & stay out of everybody’s way) will be sold in Colombo tomorrow.

Major attractions of the area include the largest & best-preserved Caves, Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, famous for being built in just 167 days.

There is a small beautiful Nature Reserve which is home to the largest Rose Quartz Mountain Range in South Asia & Sri Lanka’s largest Iron wood forest (or Na Uyana Aranya).

Anyone interested in a unique, off-the-beaten-path activity, can climb on the Rose Quartz Mountain.

From the entrance gate, one has to walk amongst this old Ironwood Forest, along a well-maintained Path, completely shaded from the hot sun, dodging hundreds of butterflies.

After around 15 minutes, visitors arrive at some ancient ruins & a Golden Buddha Statue. From here, begins the climb on to the Rose Quartz mountain. The entire mountain is a light shade of pink & you can literally pick up huge junks of Rose quartz from the floor beneath you. The hike takes around 30 minutes each way.

But the town is more famous for UNESCO World Heritage listed Cave Temple, known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla which was donated by King Valagamba in the 1^st century BC to Buddhist Monks.

The area is thought to be inhabited from as early as the 7^th - 3^rd century BC. It was earlier known as Dhamballai & was ruled by Kings like Raja Chola & Rajendra Chola during their tenure in the late 10^th   & early 11^th centuries.

The Caves in the city, at the base of a 150 meters high rock, provided refuge to King Valagamba (also called Vattagamini Abhaya) in his 14 year long exile from the Anuradhapura Kingdom in the 1^st century BC. Buddhist Monks meditating in the Caves of Dambulla at that time provided the exiled King protection from his enemies.

When King Valagamba returned to the Throne at Anuradapura, he turned these Caves into a magnificent Rock Temple as a thank-you offering in gratitude to the Monks of Dambulla.

At the Ibbankatuwa Prehistoric 2700 years old Burial Site near the city, the ancient human skeletons, when scientifically analysed, provided evidence of Civilisations & prehistoric Sri Lankans living in the Caves in this area long before the advent of Buddhism in the area. Archaeological findings prove evidence of ancient people subsisting on agriculture around 750 BC.

Proceed to Sri Lanka’s largest & best-preserved Cave Temple Complex on a on a rocky Hill towering 160 meters above the surrounding plains, offering stunning views of the countryside. You can even see the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress some 20 km distant.

Initially, the excursion requires a bit of a hike & it takes approximately 10 minutes to climb the 200 stone Steps on the vast, sloping rock face that leads to the Caves & spend time enjoying the breathtakingly intricate Sculptures.

The iconic Royal Rock Temple (also known as Dambulla Cave Temples) are ancient Buddhist Temples located right in Dambulla. A cultural phenomenon & a sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this Cave Monastery, with its 5 Sanctuaries is carved out of rock.

There are 2 entrances on either side of the rock. The main part of the Temple is made up of 5 Caves.  The natural folds of the rock have been skillfully designed, giving the illusion of a cloth like texture. Further Paintings were made by later Kings, including King Nissanka Malla, who had the Caves’ interiors gilded, earning the place the name Ran Giri (Golden Rock).

There are more than 80 documented Caves in the surrounding area but the Temple complex comprises of only 5 Caves which are allowed to be accessed by the public.

The Caves transformed into Shrines, house about 157 absolutely stunning carefully carved out Statues of Buddha, intricate Paintings & some of Sri Lanka's most important & evocative religious art. Depictions on the walls of the Caves include the temptation by the demon Mara & Buddha's first sermon. With over 2,100 m² of Buddhist mural paintings on walls & ceiling, it remains the largest area of Paintings found in the world.

Buddha images were first created here over 2000 years ago. Many other Kings added to & embellished the Cave art & by the 11^th century, the Caves had become a major religious centre & still are. Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa gilded the Caves & added about 70 Buddha Statues in 1190. During the 18^th century, the Caves were restored & painted by the Kingdom of Kandy. 

In 1938, the architecture was embellished with arched Colonnades & gabled Entrances. Inside the Caves, the Ceilings are painted with intricate patterns of religious images following the contours of the rock. The Dambulla Cave Monastery is still functional & remains the best-preserved ancient edifice.

The 1^st Cave called Devaraja Viharaya (or Cave of the Divine King) consists of a 14 meters wide Statue of Lord Buddha. The detailing of this Statue includes Ananda, a disciple of Buddha at his feet & Vishnu at his head.

The next Cave, secondary with its proportions is a dedication to the Kings. Identified as Maharaja Lena (or Cave of the Great Kings), the interior preserves 2 grandiose Statues depicting King Nissankamalla of Polonnaruwa & King Vattagamini of Anuradhapura.

Displaying over 50 Statues of Buddha & exquisite murals, the 3^rd Cave is fittingly called Great New Monastery (or Maha Alut Viharaya). The artistic motif found in the Paintings is said to be an influence of the Kandyan era.

Considered to be the most attractive, the 4^th Cave in the complex, Paschima Viharaya (also known as the Western Temple) is considered to be the oldest Cave here. It maintains 10 Statues of Lord Buddha & a small a Dagoba named Soma Chethiya in reverence to Soma Devi, the wife of King Walagamba.

A relatively recent addition to the complex, the 5^th Cave is called Devana Aluth Viharaya, home to Statues of Lord Buddha & a few Hindu deities.

The exterior of the Temple embodies the tranquillity of its surroundings & its beauty is further enhanced with a picturesque Pond. To experience unparalleled Buddhist architecture set amidst one of the most beautiful locations in the country, a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple is a must!

Statues & Paintings in these Caves date back to the 1^st century BC. But, the Paintings & Statues were constantly repaired & repainted in the 11^th, 12^th, 18^th century AD.

After exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples, you will want to hike down & arriving at the foot of the hill, you can gaze at one of the biggest Statues you may see. The Golden Buddha here denotes an East Asian influence in its appearance.

The 30 meters high Golden Buddha, actually plated with real gold, is seated on the roof of the great Golden Temple of Dambulla & Buddha Museum, surrounded by other Artwork & Statues including elephants.

From the ground floor, you can walk up the side of the Museum to the base of the Statue. Nothing great, it is a very rudimentary Museum that holds old Artifacts & Statues of Buddha.

After spending a couple of hours, say bye to Dambulla & continue your drive.

But 1 more Stop before the final destination. Dambulla is also famous for its spice gardens, with over 30 dotted along the road.

Stop at a Spice Farm in Matale, to see the different Spices, which Sri Lanka is famous for. You will be introduced to different spices & shown how some of these spices are grown & processed. The Tour-guide will explain the merits & health properties of Herbs, Spices & Plants including Cocoa, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Cloves, Coriander, Coffee, Nutmeg, Pepper, Cardamom, Aloe vera & the Henna plant.

Most visitors enjoy the tours & find them educational, but at some point you will be guided towards the Gift Shop, selling all kinds of Creams, Potions & Lotions that are said to help everything from sleeplessness to low sex drive. Staff is welcoming & there is a Restaurant where Cooking Workshops take place at specific times. Some of the prices asked for products can be steep; be prepared for a medium to hard sell & accept it as your contribution for the tour.

Continue on to your final stop.

Arrive by afternoon at the historical & sacred City of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site & Check-in at the hotel.

Some say the beautiful, laidback Kandy is the only other real ‘city’ in Sri Lanka, other than Colombo. A large city in central Sri Lanka, set amidst forested hills on a plateau surrounded by mountains, which are home to Tea Plantations & bio-diverse Rainforest.  Locally, Kandy is known as either Maha Nuwara (Great City) or just Nuwara (City), which is what some conductors on Kandy bound buses call out.

The name Kandy conjures visions of splendor & magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions & folklore are still lovingly kept alive. The easy-going capital of the Hill Country has a lot to offer - history, culture, & a touch of urban buzz. Only 115 km inland from the Capital, climatically it is a world away due to its 500 meters altitude.

Kandy served as the Capital of the last Sinhalese Kingdom, which fell to the British in 1815 after defying the Portuguese & Dutch for 3 centuries. It took the British 11 years to build a road linking Kandy with Colombo, a task they finally completed in 1831. The town & the countryside around it, is lush & green & there are many pleasant walks from the town & further afield. The town centre, close to Kandy’s picturesque Lake set in a bowl of hills, is a delightful jumble of old Shops, Antique & Gemstone specialists, a bustling Market & a very good selection of Restaurants. As night falls the city becomes eerily quiet.

History & Culture are on tap. Yes, the City is renowned for the great Kandy Esala Perahera Festival (held annually in July/August), but its vibrant cultural life & attractions more than justify a visit at any time of year. The city's heart is scenic Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake), which is popular for strolling & its vibrant cultural life & attractions more than justify a visit at any time of year.

Some days Kandy’s skies seem perpetually bruised, with stubborn mist clinging to the hills surrounding the city’s beautiful centrepiece lake. Delicate hill-country breezes impel the mist to gently part, revealing colourful houses amid Kandy’s improbable forested halo. In the centre of town, 3 wheelers careen around slippery corners, raising a soft spray that threatens the silk saris worn by local women. Here is a City that looks good even when it is raining.  And when the drizzle subsides, cobalt-blue skies reveal a City of imposing colonial-era & Kandyan architecture.

After freshening up, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby & proceed for short sightseeing tour to discover the former Capital of the Sri Lanka.

Stop at Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens - the finest of its kind in Asia, located just outside the town.

As Sri Lanka’s largest & most impressive Botanic Garden in a spacious 147 acres plenty of time is needed to stroll through Peradeniya’s imposing Avenue of Royal Palms which displays an amazing variety of Trees, Plants & Flowers

Originally built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala King & then expanded by the British, these beautiful Gardens were reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty. Today, even commoners are allowed. In the Mediterranean climate of Kandy, the gateway to the Central Highlands, the Gardens, at an elevation of 500 meters above sea-level, were tightly bounded on 3 sides by a loop of River Mahaweli (Great sandy river), the largest river of Sri Lanka.

The many highlights include a fine Collection of Orchids & a stately avenue of Royal Palms. Another big hit is the century old giant Javan fig tree on the great lawn. Its tentacle like roots spread across the enormous area of about 1,800 square meters a massive central trunk beneath the tree’s vast canopy ‘umbrella’, like a giant, living geodesic dome.

There are some 4,000 different species of Plants at Peradeniya Gardens. The 10,000 or so Trees, which are the stars, are mature, lofty giants, many of them tropical timber trees. Highlights of the collection include the Giant Bamboo of Burma, capable of growing to 40 meters height with a 25 centimetres stem diameter. And it can grow by a rapid 30 centimeters a day (12 inches).

The Cannonball tree is also intriguing, with its cannonball like fruit hanging off the trunk & large open, waxy pink-white flowers. So is the Double Coconut Palm, one of 200 types of Palms displayed at Peradeniya - originating from the Seychelles, this Tree produces the largest seed known & its fruits take 5 years to mature.

The Gardens showcase all of Sri Lanka’s Flora & representative species from around the tropical world. Luminaries as varied as Queen Elizabeth II, Marshal Tito & Yuri Gugarin have planted Trees to mark their visits to the Garden.

The Orchid House offers the visitor a captivating display of exotic blooms of Cattleya, Dendrobium, Arachnis, Oncidium, Phalaenopsis, Vanda & their hybrids. Around the Orchid House may be seen several hardy tropical orchids including the largest orchid in the world.

The shady Spice Garden situated on the right of the Main Entrance has a representative selection including cinnamon - the main spice exported from this country, pepper - the most demanded spice in the world, cardamom & nutmeg. Some of the oldest nutmeg trees planted in 1840 are still in full bearing. Savor the aromas of some of the island’s most famous crops.

There are over 200 species of palms in the Gardens. The most remarkable amongst these is the Double Coconut (Lodoicea maldivica) from the Seychelles. This palm produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom - the fruits take 5 years to mature.

There are three magnificent Palm avenues, viz., the graceful Cabbage Palm Avenue (Roystonia oleracea) flank-in the River Drive - the palms in this avenue are over 21m in height; the Palmyrah Palm Avenue (Borassus flabellifer) which joins the Flower Garden with River Drive & the Royal Palm Avenue along the Main Central Drive (Roystonia regia).

The bamboo collection is along River Drive to the right of the Lake. The giant bamboo of Burma (Dendrocalamus giganteus) is the largest known in the world. The stems attain a height of 30 - 40m & up to 20 - 25 cm in diameter. The average growth rate of new shoots is about 30cm a day. Others are the yellow building bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris), the feather – leaved bamboo (Dendrocalamus membranaceus), the prickly bamboo (Bambusa spinosa) & the Dwarf Chinese bamboo.

The Flower Garden, near the Orchid House, is laid out with beds of flowering annuals & perennials. The most striking feature here is the ribbon border of showy coleus varieties traversed by a path which leads into an octagonal conservatory. Here you may find a collection of shade-loving plants.

Come back to the hotel.

In time, meet the Rep again & walk down to the Kandy House Restaurant to enjoy authentic Kandyan Curries that are recipes handed down family to family over 100s of years. Kandyan cuisine, typical for Sinhalese, is considered the most superior of Island food by the Kandyans themselves! The food has a distinct flavor & is rich, cooked in coconut milk & often fried in coconut oil.

Come back to the hotel.

Morning, at 07.30 am, drive back to Matale to participate in a 4 hour Cooking workshop on Kandyan Village cuisine.

The city of Matale which is well known for its Vegetation & Spices. With estates filled with various Sri Lankan spices, you can be sure to come across delectable cuisine when travelling around the city as well.

Arrive at the Aluwihare Kitchens at the Matale Heritage Centre. You will be welcomed by the team which manages the Workshop

The Centre draws on the rich traditions of the area, producing quality Batik, Embroidery, Carpentry & Brass-work & occupies a sprawling compound of Bungalows, Workshops & Gardens up in a forest. By the end of the class, you will have experienced multiple Kandyan curries

The Centre’s Kitchen offers the Cooking class, which used to be hosted by the founder, Sri Lanka’s leading Artist Ena De Silva (till she passed away recently). Her design work was inspired by traditional Sri Lankan Art & Crafts and she trained the villagers in Carpentry, Wood Carving, abstract Hand Painting, Brass Foundry, Weaving, Tie & Dye and Needlework.

You have already visited a Spice Farm yesterday & savored the aromas of some of the Island’s most famous crops.

Accompanied by the Host, walk to the nearby Bazaar & explore a variety of Fruits & Vegetables, as she explains about the features of the available produce & ingredients & their use. Host will decide on the ingredients & fresh fruits & vegetables that will be required for preparing some traditional Dishes during your Class.  You can also avail the opportunity to practice some of your haggling / bargaining skills.

Come back to the Centre. Enjoy the Gardens as you walk around the house & browse through some of the finest Batik on the Island before proceeding to the Kitchen to commence your adventure.

Sinhala Cuisine is a blend of spices, flavors, colors & the Chef will be delighted to share her passion for Sri Lankan cuisine. You would learn to cook some famous local dishes such as Dhal (Sri Lankan lentil curry), Coconut Sambol, Chicken Curry or anything else you wish to learn, using the traditional Clay Pots & Coconut Spoons.  You would be introduced to the curries & watch & / or assist the Chef as she prepares a range of dishes.  Learn about the spices & herbs and how they are used in preparing the traditional dishes.

Finally, armed with a wealth of knowledge about the spices & ingredients used in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, enjoy a delectable sumptuous lunch, albeit a slightly spicy one, that you have just learned how to make yourself, once you get back home.

The session ends & you are transferred back to Kandy.

Reach the hotel by late afternoon & freshen up.

Immediately after, meet the Tour-guide & proceed on a 6 hour sightseeing of Kandy.

Drive in a Tuk Tuk around the Kandy Lake built by the last Sinhala King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798, as an additional feature for the beautifully laid out Temple of Tooth complex.

Also called the Milky Ocean, the Lake remains partially incomplete due to the British invasion in 1815. Several legends are connected to the Lake & it is believed that the King installed a secret Tunnel from its Island to the Palace. Nowadays, it remains one of the most highly regarded sights in the country &, despite its location in the center of the bustling city, the lake makes for a wonderful stroll & a respite from the noise of motorbikes & market vendors.

Proceed to one of the holiest places in Sri Lanka, Sri Dalada Maligawa (or the Temple of the Tooth Relic), a highly revered, Buddhist Temple, one of the most important in the Buddhist world.

The UNESCO World Heritage listed golden-roofed Temple houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic. It is supposedly home to the left canine tooth of Buddha, which was recovered from his funeral pyre in Kushinagar.

According to mythology, the tooth was kept in Kalinga (India) following the Mahaparinirvana (death) of Gautama Buddha & was brought to the Island by Princess Hemamali who concealed the artefact in her hair. She arrived on the Island of Lankapattana during the rule of Sirimeghavanna of Anuradhapura (301-328), & delivered the tooth artefact to the King.

The Monarch had it placed in Meghagiri Vihara (now called Isurumuniya) in Anuradhapura. From that moment, the Monarch was in charge of protecting the artefact. As a result of the Kings having custody of the artefact, it came to represent having the authority to control the Island. So, it was believed since the beginning, that the relic in possession of Sinhalese Kings, has been crucial to local politics & that whoever controls the Tooth relic would also be the rightful Governor of Sri Lanka.

King Wimaladharmasuriya constructed the first Dalada Mandira (Temple that holds the Sacred Tooth relic) at Kandy, which held the sacred Tooth relic between 1592 & 1604. However, the Temple was obliterated by the Portuguese during their conquests.

Then, during his rule from 1635 until 1687, King Rajasinghe II built the 2^nd Temple on the same site, which the Dutch later burned down. King Wimaladharmasuriya II erected a 3 story Dalada Madura in 1687, which eventually fell apart.

Later, during his 1707 & 1739 reign, his son King Sri Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe (Vira Narendra Sinha) built the present Temple in the royal Palace complex, which encompasses several other Temples & a Museum,to keep the ancient artefact for protection. Finally, King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe (1734 - 1782) meticulously refurbished & embellished the Temple to give it its current beauty.

A simple Complex in the beginning, many more additions were put in place by successive Kings. The revered main Temple, with intricate gold, silver, bronze & ivory carvings, which combines elements of the Dalada Mandira with the distinctive Kandyan architectural style, embellish the Temple. The Complex includes a series of smaller Temples, Shrines, Museums & several other artefacts, along with architectural masterpieces of the Kandyan Kingdom.

There is a Museum on the upper 2 floors of the Alut Maligawa building, that contains a stunning array of gifts donated by several Presidents & Buddhist leaders from across the world, to the Temple of the Tooth. Letters & diary entries from the British time reveal the Colonisers’ surprisingly respectful attitude to the Tooth relic.

Alut Maligawa is a large Shrine Hall displaying dozens of sitting Buddhas donated by devotees from Thailand. Its design resembles a Thai Buddhist Temple, reflecting the fact that Thai Monks re-established Sri Lanka’s ordination lineage during the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha.

Thousands of years after Buddha's death, the Tooth, already about 4 times the length of the average human tooth, is continuing to grow because of what are believed to be its special powers.

During Puja (offerings or prayers), 3 times daily at dawn, at noon, in the evenings, the heavily guarded room housing the Tooth is open to devotees & tourists. However, you don’t actually see the Tooth as it is kept in a gold Casket shaped like a Dagoba (Stupa), which contains a series of 6 Dagoba Caskets of diminishing size. But, religious followers are able to inspect the gold Casket in which it is guarded. Every Wednesdays, there is a symbolic bathing of the Sacred Relic with a herbal preparation made from scented water & fragrant flowers, called Nanumura Mangallaya.

Rituals & Processions are organised to pay homage to the relic of the Lord Buddha. One notable Procession is the Kandy Esala Perahera, which occurs in the months of July or August during which the Tooth is paraded for 10 days, around the streets of the city, accompanied by around 65 colourfully decorated elephants.

The Complex can get crowded as it receives many worshippers & tourists & backpackers & Thai Monks all jostle for space. Your visit here would give you insight into how intertwined the faith of Buddhism is with the lives of the people of Sri Lanka.

Move on after spending an hour here.

Continue on to visit the impressive Lankatilaka Vihara Buddhist Temple, just outside the city, considered to be the most magnificent architectural edifice on the entire Island. Its importance in Sri Lanka can be illustrated by its image shown on the 500 Rupee note!

Built in the 14^th century by King Bhuvanekabahu IV who ruled from 1341 to 1351 AD, during the Gampola era, it is often described as one of the most remarkable Temple as it fuses Hindu & Buddhist traditions, depicted in carvings of the structure done by Pandya sculptors brought from Tamil Nadu (India).

Lankatilaka is a most unique structure in itself, 4 storey building having been built entirely atop an imposing uneven rock surface called Panhalgala Rock, overlooking the Hantane mountain range & rising upto a height of 80 feet. It is divided into 2 sections - one Buddhist & one Hindu - & features a seated Buddha, Kandy period Paintings, rock-face inscriptions & stone elephant figures.

Based on inscriptions to be found on the Temple’s copper plaque, one learns that the foundation of granite was laid on the rock surface & rest of the structure was made of bricks. Beautiful Arches & Sculptures enhance the thick outer walls, making this an architectural marvel of that era. There are many inscriptions in both Sinhala & Tamil languages cut into the solid rock which describe the facilities provided to the Temple & the land gifted by Kings who ruled then. Its brick walls with 2 polygonal Piers that flank the entrance, give it a majestic ambience

Among the vihara buildings, the Image House possesses characteristically outstanding architectural features, embellished with traditional Sinhalese sculptures. According to the facts recorded in the Lankatilake copper plaque, this Image House was originally constructed as a 4 storey Mansion with a height of 80 feet.  The walls & the ceiling of the Image House have been adorned with the Kandyan era Paintings & Sculptures. Rock curved inscriptions found in the premises with both Sinhala & Tamil sections, proclaim about the initiators & the facilities gifted to this temple by the Kings.

Spend an hour here before driving back to the hotel.

Also pass by the 14^th century Embekke Temples, with its carved wooden pillars & intricate designs and the Gadaladeniya Temple with its South Asian flavour.

You may also visit the Gem Museum & a Lapidary (depending on the time & discretion of the Tour-guide).

Stop at the Bazaar & visit the Arts & Crafts Centre where you can browse for bargains on good-quality Lacquerware, Brassware & other craft items and pick up some interesting handicrafts. You will see some Craftspeople working on site,

The sightseeing concludes & you return to the hotel.

But the day is not over yet.

After you freshen up, meet the Rep again at 04.30 pm & proceed to the Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Center for a spectacular Cultural extravaganza with its rhythmic Melodies, mesmerizing Costumes & transcendent Performances.

The Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Center was formed in 1882 by the British Government agent for the Central Province, to revitalise traditional Kandyan arts & crafts (such as weaving, wood carving, painting, jewelry making, music & dance) & support the traditional craftsmen by providing them a Sales Centre displays & sells handicrafts obtained from traditional crafts people who are members of the Association.

Artists & Craftsmen in the Kingdom of Kandy were well organised into Guilds, with knowledge & skills passed down from generation to generation. Even marriages were within the same group so that the craft was closely guarded. These Guilds all operated under the patronage of the King.

When the Kingdom was absorbed into the British Empire as a Protectorate, following the Kandyan Convention of 1815, without a royal household most of these Artists & Craftsmen lost their livelihood & the Guilds were disbanded, with only a few families continuing their crafts.

Initially, it operated from a small room in the Government Agent’s Office. In 1904 the Association moved to the building known as the Palle Vahala (Lower Palace), where the King's spouse & children resided. The building now houses the National Museum of Kandy. In 1919 the Association was incorporated as a public trust & is now administered by the Government Agent of Kandy District & a Management Committee.

As the last Capital of the Sinhala Kings, Kandy holds immense cultural significance, making it the perfect setting for this captivating display of traditional arts.

Experiencing new cultures & traditions is one of the reasons why people travel, and this Show is an illustration of that, with the various components of Sri Lanka’s rich & diverse cultural history all on display

The Association organises a daily 1 hour traditional Kandyan Dance & Music Performance. Be prepared to be enthralled by a feast for the senses. The vibrant Costumes, resplendent with vivid colors & intricate details, create a visual spectacle that transports you to the regal era of the Kandyan Kingdom.

These Dances are performed by local families & products of the country's Dancing Institutions. The Show encompasses a variety of dance forms from throughout the country, each with its own unique symbolism & storytelling.

The rhythmic traditional Drumming & melodious Music, accompanied by traditional Wind instruments, create an immersive auditory experience that echoes the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Believed to be originally performed by Indian Shamans who came to the Island many centuries ago, Kandyan dancing is a celebration of the rich traditions of Sri Lankan culture. The soul-stirring ancient ritual dance Kohomba Kapkariya, focuses on dynamism, powerful footwork, leaps & whirls that imitate several movements from birds & animals. The entire Performance is graced by colorful costumes, masked dances & thrilling fire acts! To make the show more exciting, some men perform a series of acrobats & stunts such as plate-spinning.

From the graceful movements of the Udarata Natum (Kandyan dance) to the energetic Fire & Demon Dancers, the Performance offers a glimpse into ancient legends, religious narratives & moral values deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture.

The skillful Dancers, with their expressions & gestures, bring these stories to life, leaving the audience captivated & enlightened. The Performance provides a profound insight into the country’s cultural heritage, fostering appreciation & understanding & uniting the past & the present, reminding us of the importance of preserving & celebrating our diverse traditions. The mesmerising spectacle covering various aspects of Sri Lanka’s traditions, captivates your imagination with spectacular displays of local culture & art.

Admire the enthusiasm & gusto of the Dancers & marvel at the subtle expressions, elegant sways, slaying dance moves, & brisk eye movements. Experiencing new cultures & traditions is one of the reasons why people travel & this Show is an illustration of that, with the various components of Sri Lanka’s rich & diverse cultural history all on display

The Show ends & you proceed to a Restaurant to enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan cuisine dinner.

You might also get an opportunity, depending on the time, to visit Kandy Arts & Crafts Centre where we can buy Kandyan silver & brass ware, metal work, lacquer work, wood & bone carvings, pottery & hand- woven fabrics and see a Gem Museum & a Lapidary.

Come back to the hotel.

Early morning, transfer to the Railway station to board the train to the highlands of Nuwara Eliya.

A fabulous way to see Sri Lanka’s hill villages & Tea country & see the daily lives of the local people. Train travel in Sri Lanka can be an adventurous experience & a fabulous way of exploring.

A fabulous way to see Sri Lanka’s hill villages & tea country & see the daily lives of the local people. Train travel in Sri Lanka can be an adventurous experience & a fabulous way of exploring.

Embark on a magical train journey through the Tea country with prime seats in the Observation Carriage, climbing uphill upto 6,000 feet above sea level, enjoying the dramatic landscape of the highlands that stirs the senses as you wind past lush Tea Plantations, majestic Peaks & rushing Waterfalls.

Meeting on arrival at Hatton Station.

Set in the heart of the “Tea country” hails the modest town of Hatton, a major center of the Sri Lankan Tea industry. The town & the countryside surrounding it, lies to the west of Nuwara Eliya, in Sri Lanka's glorious hill country, an area of outstanding beauty & undulating hills draped in verdant Estates dotted with Lakes, Pine Forests & ancient Tea factories.

Named after the little village of the same name in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. A number of the surrounding Estates are also named after Scottish villages.

Founded during the British time, the colonial Planters set up Coffee Plantations & later, Tea Estates, carpeting the central hills with high grown Tea, which became known all over the world as “Ceylon Tea”, the best cup that cheers after a hearty breakfast.

The town itself is nothing to write home about, but it does lie close to Adam’s Peak; a conical mountain & focal point for Pilgrims. Little has changed in this area since the British started growing Tea in the late 1800’s. Tea is still the major employer in the area so it is common to see women out plucking the Tea leaf in the fields, during the day.

But, you are not staying here. You will be transferred to the next town in the charming Tea country.

Meeting on arrival at Hatton Station & transfer to Dickoya, blessed with a cool climate, breathtaking views of Valleys, Meadows, Mountains & Greenery.

Reach Castlereagh Bungalow located within a Tea Estate, by early afternoon & Check-in. 

Here, 4 classic colonial Bungalows, built for British Estate Managers in the days of the Raj, have been caringly restored..

Enjoy a superb 3 course Lunch overlooking the beautiful Castlereagh Lake. For those that would like a break from Sri Lankan curry, we recommend you enjoy the Tea encrusted lamb! It’s tea-delicious

Balance of the day is at leisure. Read a good book & enjoy making your way through the incredible Tea menu.

After the meal, put on your walking shoes & stride out into the picturesque Tea country (on your own). It is right at your doorstep - with so many incredible walks from 20 minutes to 4 hours.  The choice is yours.!

In central Sri Lanka, lies the Golden Valley of Tea, the old Ceylon. Set at 4,000 feet, the Hills here are luminous green embroidery of neatly arranged rows of Tea bushes. Their lush leaves create an air of permanent spring that is complemented by a decorous tableau of misty Lakes, peaceful Woods, Victorian Churches & grand 1920s Bungalows that are now Guesthouses.

Nestled in a wooded dell close to a lake, this century-old Castlereagh Bungalow, offers unrivalled water views & superb Garden Suites. Elegant parquet floors with open Fireplaces in the Dining & Drawing rooms evoke recollections of a bygone colonial era. It includes a Swimming Pool, Library & Croquet & various indoor games. The grounds are extensive and include Summerhouses where Ceylon’s finest Tea will be served.

Imagine spending a night in an authentic colonial Bungalow that was once belonged to the British Planters who managed the Plantations in the region. Enjoy the evening chitchatting by the fireplace before sitting down to a formal Dinner in keeping with the traditions of a bygone era, prepared by the ‘Appu’ or Housekeeper / Chef.

Delicious meals can be served up by a Butler in your room, in the Dining room, or on the Terrace overlooking the Pool. The Chef will discuss with you about your evening meal.

Wake up to a glorious sunrise surrounded by Tea bushes spreading across the mountains like carpets rolled out in the sun.

Formerly known as ‘Ceylon’, Sri Lanka was once the world’s largest producer of Tea & now is the 4^th largest. Tea drinking culture within this country is strong, with Sri Lankans drinking on average 3 cups per day. In an attempt to compete with China‘s production, the British introduced Tea cultivation to Sri Lanka in 1867 & since, the country has become the producer of some of the world’s finest Teas, from single origins to mixed fruit blends.

The majority of the Tea Gardens in Dickoya, are situated in the south-west of the Island at a height of between 1,000 & 2,500 metres, which is where this Dickoya Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP) Tea originates, with the finest Teas grown at the highest altitudes where the cool & slightly misty climate results in a slow growth of the Tea bushes, giving these superior quality Teas their uniquely colourful liquor & intense flavouring.

Tea production is one of the main sources of foreign exchange for Sri Lanka & is its major export. It accounts for 2% + of its Gross Domestic Product. The Industry indirectly employs over 2 million people & directly employs nearly a quarter of a million people on Tea Plantations & Estates alone.

Tea is cultivated in Sri Lanka using the ‘contour planting’ method, where all the bushes are planted in serried rank following the contours of the land surface, usually on slopes given that most Tea grown there is in the South West hilly regions. Generally, 2 leaves & a bud, which have the flavour & aroma, are carefully plucked, usually at some considerable speed by women. Sri Lanka is one of the few countries where each Tea leaf is picked by hand rather than through mechanised means.

Morning, at 08:00 am, embark on a guided tour to learn how Ceylon Tea is made. The experienced Guide will introduce you to the process of growing & harvesting, whilst providing in depth information about Sri Lankan tea culture

Head for the Pedro Tea Estate which lies nestled amongst the scenic beauty of the hill country,

You will gain an insight into Sri Lanka’s Tea making history by seeing how the newer Factories function,

exploring their process of producing some of the finest single origin Tea in Sri Lanka.

Walk through the fields & watch closely how the nimble fingers of the colorfully clad Tea Pluckers carefully pick the prized “2 leaves & a bud” that go into making the world finest Pure Ceylon Tea.

You may also try your hand at this skilled process, picking the leaves as you indulge in a chit-chat with the friendly the Pickers (using hand gestures for they may not understand the language you speak) & let them show you how it is correctly done. Watch the leaves being collected, weighed & then transported to the nearby Factory.

Next, take a guided tour of the Factory that specializes in producing some of the finest single origin Tea in Sri Lanka. The Factory stands as one of the largest, in the region.

The full process involves Plucking, Withering, Rolling, Fermentation, Firing & Sorting/Grading before it is bulk packed to be sent to the Tea Auctions in Colombo.

Watching & understanding the process will take a couple or more hours, at the end of which you will have acquired a good knowledge of Tea processing, its intricacies & the workings that goes into making the Pure Ceylon Tea, known as the finest in the world.

They responsibly promote sustainability through their production process, in addition to their engagement with Tourism. The knowledgeable Staff gives you the inside scoop into the bustling & varied work of growing Tea for the rest of the world to enjoy.

You will also have the opportunity to observe & learn about the intricate Tea types & how they are graded by size of the leaf - the large leaf Teas fetch higher prices in comparison to the dust grades - & then tasted for strength, flavor & aroma before being bagged & sent to the Tea Auctions in Colombo.

At the outdoor Cafe, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of wholesome Ceylon Tea accompanied by freshly baked cake, while enjoying the panoramic view. You can also buy some Pure Ceylon Tea to take back home.

Also, visit the local Tea Pluckers creche that is supported by the Non-profit MJF Foundation.

As the tour concludes, Visitors learn that the Tea they are enjoying or purchasing is enfolded in an intriguing story of hard work, commitment, passion & success. The Tea Center on the Estate is a good place to purchase some of the area’s best quality Teas.

Next, see typical old British Church architecture at the Christ Church Warleigh, more popularly known as the Warleigh Church, constructed in 1878 by early Planters. This quaint & beautiful Church, in one of the most stunning locations, offers an amazing panoramic view of distant mountains merging poignantly with the blue skies.  

Visitors can also sail in the expansive waters of the Castlereagh Reservoir in a native Catamaran (dugout canoe) as they enjoy the breathtaking expanse of clear blue tranquility spread around & the green jungle that surrounds it.

Return to the Bungalow.

Balance of the day is at leisure. If you have been out walking you will love nothing more than to slip into a hot bath. We recommend you try one of optional (direct payment) Tea Trails healing tea baths! Or enjoy pears poached in cinnamon tea.

Early morning, depart for Buttala, enroute stopping at Nuwara Eliya.

Located at the heart of Sri Lanka's Tea country, producing a significant share of the world's best Tea, the summer resort town of Nuwara Eliya (meaning ‘City of Light’ in the local lingo) is mostly famous as the centre for Tea production in Sri Lanka, producing a significant share of the world's best Tea.

The earliest written account on Nuwara Eliya is by Dr. John Davy who came here in 1819 for a Trekking expedition. During those days, the uninhabited Nuwara Eliya Valley & the hill sides were covered with undisturbed thick forest on the slopes, frequented by vast herds of elephants & other wild animals.

As it is situated at a high altitude, the town is colder than anywhere else in Sri Lanka. With its unique chilly climate & often covered with an early morning mist, cold tangy air & fresh, invigorating atmosphere offers a typical English environment. Nicknamed “Little England”, this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era Bungalows sporting twee names, Tudor-style Hotels, well-tended hedgerows & pretty Rose Gardens at an elevation of 1,868 metre in the misty hills of central Sri Lanka. In fact, most foreign visitors to Sri Lanka always make it a point to visit Nuwara Eliya to enjoy its ‘Home away from Home” feeling.

The ‘City of Light’ keeps its colonial hill station atmosphere more completely than any place in the sub-continent. Indeed, Nuwara Eliya was once was the favoured cool-climate escape for the hard-working & hard-drinking English & Scottish pioneers of Sri Lanka’s Tea industry. It was a favoured stomping ground for the Tea Planters - the ‘wild men of the hills’ as one British Governor called them.

The well-planned town still retains its English style. The Town Centre is a concrete tangle but the outskirts still keep the atmosphere of a misplaced British village

Apart from the Tea Estates, there are many places to see in the town & the vicinity.

The old pink brick Victorian Post Office is a sure reminder of the British era. One of the best rated 18 Hole Golf Course at the Royal Nuwara Eliya Golf Club (dating back to 1889), blends well with the surrounding Plantations on one side & the Fauna, Flora & tiny streams on the other side, running in between.

The verdant surrounding countryside of Tea Plantations, carefully tended vegetable plots & craggy hills is highly scenic. Nuwara Eliya’s fair assortment of country-style houses with large Gardens have now been turned over to vegetables, making this one of Sri Lanka’s main market-gardening centres.

Enjoy the hospitality & the smiling faces of the local people, belonging to diverse races & religions a mixture & blend of Eastern & Western cultures, old & new. Fashionably dressed affluent folks go about in caps & jerseys while the migrant labour force, who blend Indian & Sri Lankan cultures, where men dress in colourful Hindu kovils & women wear colourful saris.

Most popular season is from March to May & August to September when people flock to Nuwara Eliya in search of a cool climate & fun. Many fast-food stalls line the streets, women strut along the streets fashionably dressed & street festivals are organized by the Authorities.

See the English country house styled Hill Club with its hunting pictures, mounted fish & hunting Trophies.

Nuwara Eliya Race Course is now the only surviving horse racing track in the country. Situated 1,868 metres above sea level, it is one of the highest in the world & the inaugural Race was held in 1875, organised by the Nuwara Eliya Gymkhana Club.

Seetha Amman Kovil Temple, a colorful Hindu Shrine, is decorated with religious figures. Of great mythological importance to Hindus worldwide, it is believed that after the Sinhala King Ravana captured Sita, the wife of Rama, one of the main Hindu Gods, she used to come here to pray.

Right next to the Temple is the naturally landscaped Hakgala Botanical Gardens which displays roses & fern trees & shelters Monkeys & blue Magpies.

One can take a leisurely walk around beautiful Lake Gregory & enjoy stunning scenery & panoramic vistas, with rugged mountains outlined against clear blue skies making a breathtaking back drop. The cascading Waterfalls dotting the region further accentuate its beauty & offer picturesque views of the landscape with the blue sky as the background amidst endless green pastures of Tea.

There are several numerous National Parks in Sri Lanka. Densely forested Galway's Land National Park is a small sanctuary spread across an area of 27 acres known for its 30 native endemic & 20 rare migratory bird species, including Bulbuls & Flycatchers.

There are many Farms here & travelers can enjoy the large open spaces. One of the famous is Ambewela Farm, generally referred to as Little New Zealand, due to its lush greenery. Spread over a very large area, travellers enjoy the soft grass when they walk bare feet on this Farm, amidst the Cows & other cattle. At certain time, one can witness the milking of the Cows. Visitors can also buy & taste fresh dairy products.

A great backdrop for the Photographers trying to capture the scenic beauty of the city, especially during the strawberry season, are the enchanting Strawberry fields. Visitors can walk around & can pick up their own strawberries (for a small charge).

Stop by the unique Bale Bazaar, popularly known as the winter market, one of the interesting places to visit in the town. The market offers cheap winter-related products & Souvenirs.

Sri Lanka's highest mountain Pidurutalagala (8282 feet) is also in the area.

Visitors who are staying here, can treat themselves to a round of Golf or a few frames of Billiards, & soak up the town’s unique bygone heritage.

Continue on to Buttala, a unique oasis in Sri Lanka’s south-east.

On arrival by late afternoon, Check-in at Galapita Eco Retreat where you will stay in a wonderful mud Hut & fall asleep to the sound of the river.

Balance of the day is at leisure.

What began as an idealistic rural retreat for friends & family is now the ultimate escapist Retreat for a small selection of independent travellers. Life can hardly be more natural than this.

Galapita Healing Garden which is one of those rare & magical places built atop a magnificent rock that soars like a huge bathing elephant out of the water of the Menik Ganga (Gem River).  There are 4 ecological Pavilions reflecting a contemporary interpretation of traditional Sri Lankan style, each built using local materials such as stone, wood, mud & thatched roofs. Your bedroom on stilts will be 1 of 4 Huts with have a straw roof, bamboo walls, a futon bed, mosquito nets & a little driftwood furniture, nothing much else, perched on the rocks. Like a Tree House that peers over paddy fields.  

Galapita is one of the Island's best hideaways, a property blessed with a stunningly beautiful location & a relaxed atmosphere. This is the place to unwind & recharge away from the stresses of the modern world. Spend your day having a Massage, Reading, or swimming in the river, eating superb curries, Canoeing or enjoying the magnificent Herb Garden or the 50 feet tall cascading Pigeon Falls, swinging in your Hammock by the river or just bliss out!

Meals are served in the thatched mud-hut Restaurant & this is also a central place where you can spend your time enjoying the jungle views & socialize with other guests as well as the staff team. You can try more of those delicious organic vegetable curries & string hoppers.

Galapita grows its own rice, vegetables & culinary herbs using organic methods. The fish & seasonal prawns come from the surrounding rivers & east coast.  Meat eaters will not be disappointed as the flavours are awesome and Dhal provides plenty of protein. Only vegetarian food made from their home grown veges is served. There is a diverse array of Sri Lankan delicacies cooked using traditional cooking methods.  The kitchen is open plan, for all to learn, featuring clay pots on wooden fires. There is plentiful fruit & local buffalo curd & treacle (rather like Greek yoghurt).

The landscape is tremendously varied with abandoned Chena fields, Irrigation Tanks, dense tall dry zone forests, thorny scrub jungle, many flowering trees & rare tropical woods. Little more than an overgrown crossroads, Buttala is ideal for viewing the lovely scenery & visiting the uncrowded Temples & ruins in the vicinity.

This is elephant country where valiant warriors of the past once strode. Brace yourself for checkpoints manned by lone elephants that will let you through in return for some tropical fruit, an experience of the wildest kind as a significant stretch of the 40 km Buttala - Kataragama access Road winds through Yala National Park.  

Buttala may have received its name as a pit-stop for the King’s army but the history has left us many profound clues to believe that it has also been a place of refuge to the human mind & a center of enlightenment - evident in its many places of worship & well-appointed Monasteries, in the vicinity.

There is history strewn all over - a story that dates back to the 2^nd century, to the time of King Dutugamunu, when a glorious Civilization reigned with a royal lineage at the top. It was known as Guthala, then. Their handiwork, from towering Stupas to massive Irrigation Tanks that baffles modern-day Engineers can only give us a glimpse of life.

According to the 5^th century Buddhist chronicle “Mahavamsa”, Buttala was part of the ancient Ruhunu Kingdom & is believed to have been an important staging point before King Dutugemunu’s much hyped battle with the Tamil King Elara. Thus, making it a location of considerable cultural & historical importance (as well as a prime eco tourism destination in modern times). The names of many places are derived from ancient times, often from the names of the Generals in the Kings’ armies, as in the case of Buttala.

The name means ‘Rice Mound’, in reference to the area’s agricultural bounty. Today, Buttala is the home to the largest Sugar Mill in Sri Lanka, established in 1981, which employs approximately 4,200 employees & buys from over 300,000 sugarcane farmers.

From farmlands of mouth-watering tropical delicacies to natural vistas & ancient wonders, perhaps, Buttala’s biggest surprise is its virgin culture & that it has somehow managed to remain lost from the rest of the Island.

Full day at leisure for independent activities (we shall be only too happy to offer suggestions).

Spend the morning swinging in a hammock listening to the sound of the river with a good book or for the more active go gem panning in Galapita’s river, filled with semi-precious stones such as garnets & quartz. Many a guest have departed with some superb stones & headed straight to the jewelers to have them cut and polished. Try your luck!

Have a treatment (direct payment) in the Mineral Spa which provides relaxing Ayurveda therapies that rejuvenate the mind & body. The medicinal herbs used for the therapies are all from Galapita’s own herbal gardens & the surrounding forests. Daily yoga sessions are conducted at the Yoga Sala surrounded by natural lotus filled ponds.

Venturing out, there are many Options (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

It is worth strolling up to picturesque little Temple Road to visit the idyllically peaceful Dolapeela Vihara (a Buddhist complex), with its small whitewashed Dagoba (Stupa), 800 year old bodhi tree & worn old moonstone.

Driving out on the Kataragama Road, just outside the town, you will see the landscape change rapidly to a winding, hilly terrain with lush greenery. You will be greeted with a vast valley with mountains in the background; a valley of rice fields on either side of the narrow road. On your right, will be the unmistakable sight of a fascinating landmark - an ancient brick-colored Stupa of Dematamal Viharaya, hugged by a green canvass of paddy. The Temple is credited to King Mahanaga & as it lay ruined through times of sojourn, King Kavantissa, whose sons will later ensure a colorful place in the history books, refurbished it.

Going further on the same road, you may want to experience the serenity of a 6^th century Budugallena Hermitage & Monastery. Off the beaten-track & away from the crowded tourist trail, this ancient Monastery is proof to a truly authentic & inclusive experience Buttala holds offers to an intrepid traveler. The 14^th milepost on this road is the turn off to this ancient widely spread jungle complex. You get off the vehicle & then embark on a short & easy trek to the Monastery. It is a climb through virgin forest, a good country mile that leads you to the staircase of serenity - 117 Steps that will usher you into the stillness of the ancient Monastery. You will be greeted by tell-tale signs of an ancient Civilization & an area dedicated to meditation. Ruins include rock pillars, moonstones & ancient Brahmian scripts. The Meditation Chamber remains intact & in use, adorned with a special feature - a path of meditation marked in sand. Each tenant Monk engages in walking meditation, eyes closed in a ritual that promotes mind-fullness.

Another place not to be missed is the 9^th or 10^th century Buduruwagala Buddhist Rock Temple complex consisting of 7 ancient Buddhist figures, belonging to the Mahayana School of Thought which enjoyed a brief heyday in Sri Lanka during this time, carved into the large Cliff face.

It is speculated that Buduruwagala (which roughly translates to for Buddha (Budu), Images (ruva) & Stone (gala)) was a Hermitage for Mahayana Monks, but no information other than the approximate age of the carvings has come to light so far. These days, a modern building houses a small number of Monks, who reside here.

The beautiful, 1000 year old, rock-cut figures of Buduruwagala are the region's biggest attraction. The gigantic ‘standing’ 51 feet high Buddha is the tallest Statue in the country. It still bears traces of its original stuccoed robe & a long streak of orange suggests it was once brightly painted.

The giant figure is situated at the center of the cliff face, flanked by smaller carved figures, from the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, on both sides. On the right are depictions of the white-painted figure Avalokiteshvara (the Bodhisattva of Compassion), the Goddess Tara & Prince Sudhana. Of the 3 figures on Buddha’s left-hand side, the crowned figure at the centre of the group is thought to be Maitreya Bodhisattva, the future Buddha. To his left stands Vajrapani Bodhisattva, who holds a Vajra (an hourglass-shaped thunderbolt symbol) – an unusual example of the Tantric side of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The 3^rd figure to the right may be either Vishnu or Sahampath Brahma.

Several square niches are carved into the rock above the statues, their use is not known. Several of the figures hold up their right hands with 2 fingers bent down to the palm - a beckoning gesture. By the right foot of the Buddha is a 4 feet high hole shaped like a flame. The deepest reaches of this hole are always wet with a substance that smells like mustard oil.

Then, there is a Christian Adisham Monastery, one of only 18 Monasteries in the world belonging to the Sylvestrine Congregation, a suborder of the Benedictine fraternity founded in the 13^th century.

The beautiful building once belonged to Tea Planter Sir Thomas Lester Villiers. To recreate his English lifestyle, he developed some English country-cottage Gardens, which are still enchanting visitors today. Inside, visitors are allowed to see the Living Room & Library, which is filled from floor to ceiling with dusty Tomes. There is a small shop selling produce from the Monastery’s lovely Gardens & Orchards.

There is another tall Buddha Statue amidst the extensive remains of Pathma Vihara, among the trees. Once part of a grand Monastic complex, the site is delightful, set in an appealingly shady forest glade.

Sitting atop 5 crumbling, moss-covered flights of stairs, shaded by a banal corrugated canopy, is the 10 meters high Maitreya Bodhisattva (Avalokitesvara), which was rebuilt / reconstituted between 1989 & 1991 from over 100 fragments unearthed in the 1950s.

A few minutes’ walk under the thick canopy of trees in the opposite direction, is another magnificent 11 meters tall Buddha Statue, carved by devotees in the 7^th century considered by some to be among the tallest free-standing ancient Buddhas in existence. Carpeted in thick green moss & with its feet often adorned in flowers left by pilgrims, this is a very beautiful Statue.

Many more options for those who are staying longer.

Early morning, depart for Tangalle, enroute stopping at Katagarama - one of the holiest city & home to thousands of Hindu & Buddhist pilgrims in August each year.

The story of Kataragama centres on the repeated descent & exploits on earth of a hero Kataragama & his battles with the forces of darkness. According to this basic symbolic framework, a number of themes are woven in depending on the perspective taken - whether it be Buddhism, where Kataragama is the Bodhisattva or Buddha to be or Hinduism where according to legend, Skanda, the Hindu God of War arrived in Sri Lanka & received 2 gifts from the Sinhalese - a house of leaves & a beautiful wife. It is the romantic union of Skanda & his wife that is commemorated annually.

This most holy of towns is a compelling mix of pomp & procession, piety & religious extravagance. Along with Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), Kataragama is the most important pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka; a holy place for Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus & Veddah people and is one of the very ‘rare’ religious sites in Sri Lanka that is venerated by all. People from South India also go there in high numbers to worship.

It is one of those wonderful destinations where the most outlandish of legends becomes solid fact & magic floats in clouds of incense. It is difficult to reconstruct the factual history of the place & the reason for its popularity amongst Sri Lankans & Indians, based on legends & available archaeological & literary evidence alone, although the place seems to have a venerable history. The lack of clear historic records & resultant legends & myths fuel the conflict between Buddhists & Hindus as to the ownership & more important, the mode of worship here.

Although Kataragama used to be a small village surrounded by difficult to access jungle during the ancient & medieval period, it slowly developed into a multi-religious sacred city after becoming a popular pilgrimage site famous for Kataragama Temple. Many believe that King Dutugemunu built a Shrine to Kataragama Deviyo (the resident God of War) here in the 2^nd century BC, but the site is thought to have been significant for even longer. The story of Kataragama centres on the repeated descent & exploits on earth of a hero (Kataragama) & his battles with the forces of darkness. He is denoted as Murugan or Kartikeya by Tamils & Kandasamy or God Skandha Kumara by Hindus.

Another major attraction of Kataragama is the Buddhist Stupa Kiri Vehera, which was built around 6^th century BC. by a regional King Mahasena. According to this basic symbolic framework, a number of themes are woven in depending on the perspective taken - whether it be Buddhism, where Kataragama is the bodhisattva or Buddha to be or Hinduism where according to legend, Skanda, the Hindu God of War arrived in Sri Lanka & received 2 gifts from the Sinhalese - a house of leaves & a beautiful Vedda princess. It is this romantic union of Skanda & his wife that is commemorated annually in July & August through the Eshele Perehera Festival in the city.

Some believe that the Temple stands on ground that has been considered hallowed for around 2,500 years - said to have been consecrated by Gautama Buddha himself. The Priests of the Temple are known as Kapuralas & are believed to have descended from Vedda people who too have a claim on the Temple.

According to Hindu & some Buddhist texts, the main Shrine is dedicated to Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Kumara, Skanda, Saravanabhava, Visakha or Mahasena, the celestial Tamil God of War.  A Tamil rendition of the Skanda Purana or Kandha Puranam written in the 14^th century also expands on these legends.

The people visiting this holy place take bath in a river nearby, also known as Manik Ganga. Surprisingly this Ganga is linked to pre Hinduism & Buddhism era & it is believed that this deity was originally residing on the top of the Waedahiti Kanda Mountain, well known to be the residence of the indigenous Veddah people.

The sprawling religious Complex across the Menik Ganga also has an Islamic Mosque & unlike many pilgrimage sites, Kataragama promotes secularism. The Shrines & the nearby Kiri Vehera are managed by Buddhists, the Shrines dedicated to Teyvaṉai & Shiva are managed by Hindus & the Mosque by Muslims.

Consequently, the Complex contains buildings of all 3 main religions & it is difficult to sort fact from fiction and if these ancient works are to be believed, then this town is more of a historic town, rich in pilgrimage sites.

Up until the 1940s a majority of the Pilgrims were Tamil Hindus from Sri Lanka & South India who undertook an arduous padayatra or "pilgrimage on foot". Since then, the cult of Kataragama deviyo become the most popular amongst the Sinhalese Buddhist pilgrims.

After spending an hour strolling around, drive on to another exciting place.

You will also stop at Rekawa Turtle Hatchery & Conservation Centre, a Turtle conservation site that aims at protecting the Sea Turtles that visit the coastline.

Being regarded as a tropical paradise, Sri Lanka is an Island that that plays host to some of the rarest & astonishing natural spectacles. The equatorial location, the idyllic climatic conditions & its environs support a multitude of natural events that cannot happen anywhere else in the world. One such amazing event is the Nesting of Sea Turtles.

It all happens on a quaint Beach located off the coast of Tangalle, known as the Rekawa Beach. It boasts a surreal ambience with stunning scenery & due to its ecological significance, a lot of locals do not frequent the Beach as they know it would disturb the Turtles.

The Rekawa Beach is one of the few places on the Island where you could see Turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Though this is a rare sight to be seen up close, the Conservation Centre, has designated a location that allows you to witness this event without disrupting the gentle creatures.

As Sri Lanka’s beaches attract 5 out of the 7 endangered Turtle species, it became imperative to safeguard the Nesting sites & aid in the conservation of the species. The main species that visit the golden shores of the Island to nest & lay their eggs & are under watch are the Loggerhead, Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley & the Leatherback Turtle.

Conservation Centre can be visited year round. However, for Nesting views, the ideal season is between April to July where 5 to 15 Turtles visit the shores each night. Sightings are rare from of October to January when only 1 to 2 Turtles are spotted at night. Nesting happens only between late evening hours & dawn. Once they lay their eggs, they are then collected & are taken to the safe confines of the Centre where the eggs are incubated until they are ready to hatch. In some cases, the eggs are left undisturbed in the sand & are protected in situ.  Some lucky visitors might even be able to release a few hatchlings back to the Big Blue!

Since all the Turtles which arrive at the beach are listed as endangered species, the excursion to see these creatures are bound by strict regulations. These feeble creatures are always under the watchful eyes & protection of local environmentalists & government officials & lot of volunteers, too.  Entry is limited to no more than 20 individuals at a time, during the Nesting season & they are not allowed to get too close to the turtles as well. Visitors are asked to refrain from making loud noises & their mobile devices should be put on silent or be turned off. Also, no bright lights or camera flashes.

Continue driving on towards your hotel in Tangalle, a short drive away.

Arrive by afternoon & Check-in at the hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day at leisure (we shall be only too happy to offer suggestions).

With an old world charm, Tangalla (or Tangalle) is a lush tropical paradise located on the Southern coast of Sri Lanka, famous for its endless sandy shores & wide-open Beaches, turquoise blue water, magnificent Bays & the Mangroves along with a few culturally important sites.

Strung out along one of the South's most stunning stretches of coastline, Tangalla is among the region’s more developed beach destinations with a handful of upmarket Hotels & Villas dotted along the coves and beaches which line the oceanfront here.

The name of the town in Sinhala means "projected rock", a reference to the rocks which form the coastline in the town area, which contrasts with the sandy beach of the surrounding areas. Another story is that the name is derived from ran-gala (or "golden rock"), which relates to a local legend that a Holy-man once ate a meal there & the rock was turned to gold.

Tangalle is a regionally important Fishing Port, situated on one of the largest Bays in Sri Lanka, which is protected from the ocean by an enclosing Reef & the town has an easygoing lazy atmosphere. A wonderful place for Surfing, Whale watching, Diving & of course, perfect for spending your days lounging on one of the various beaches, all with beautiful views over the warm Indian Ocean.

A popular holiday destination for the locals, the Town Centre features an old Dutch Fort which is used as a Prison today. The Dutch & subsequently the British used Tangalle as an important anchorage on the southern coast of the Island. The Fort, Rest House & Court House are a few remaining examples of Dutch architecture in the city.

What gives Tangalle added appeal, however, is the number of rewarding attractions in the surrounding countryside, including the Hoo-maniya blowhole, the giant Buddha & the gaudy Shrines of Wewurukannala & the magnificent Rock Temples of Mulkirigala. Dedicated ornithologists might also fancy a trip to the little-visited Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, which can be combined with a visit to the mysterious plateau at Ussangoda.

Early morning, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to the Beach & watch or even help the local Fishermen pull in their daily catch!

You may swim for an hour, if interested.

Then, it is now time to learn about traditional Sri Lankan village Cuisine & a Market to Table cooking experience designed to fully ingrain you into Sri Lanka’s unique culinary culture. Cooking Classes in Tangalle are a unique opportunity to experience Asian cuisine.

Proceed to the nearby venue to arrive by 11.00 am & meet the friendly Host.

Your class begins with visit to the local Fruit, Vegetable, Fish market, travelling by a private Tuk-tuk, accompanied by the Chef / Host.

The Host will guide you through the market, helping you choose fresh local ingredients to make your curries with while learning the art of exchange & bargaining from friendly faces.

Back to the venue with your bountiful harvest & let the excitement begin. In the fully equipped Kitchen, the Host will crack open a Coconut for you to sip the refreshing coconut beverage & show you that coconut is an integral part of the cooking & how they use the rest of it.

Cooking time! This is where the magic happens. You are allowed to choose 3 items from a Menu of traditional Island recipes. Watch or assist as the Chef goes ahead preparing delicious dishes, explaining the steps & use of traditional ingredients.  

Curries are that are cooked in clay pots over a cinnamon wood fuelled fire results in authentic & far superior taste compared to ones cooked on conventional gas or electric cookers.  But in this Demo, you will be using electric cookers.

Observe carefully as you learn the spicy secrets, new techniques & recipes you came to discover.

And finally, it is time to partake the efforts of your labour. Enjoy a sumptuous meal you just helped to cook.

Take leave from your Host & transfer back to the hotel.

Balance of the day free to relax at the beach or hotel or for Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions or / & make arrangements).

You may want to check out the serene Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara (Rock Temples of Mulkirigala), dangling off a rocky crag, nestled away among a green forest of coconut trees 16 km northwest of Tangalla.

According to ancient inscriptions carved on the rock, Mulkirigala dates back almost 2,000 years when it was the site of a Buddhist Monastery. The Complex built upon a 673 feet high rock, is made up of 7 Cave Temples on 5 separate descending Terraces.

The Lower Terrace (Patha Maluwa), Bo Tree Terrace (Bodhi Maluwa). Great King’s Temple Terrace (Raja Maha Vihara Maluwa), Upper Bo Tree Terrace (Uda Bodhi Maluwa) & Chetiya Terrace (Chaitya Maluwa). All 5 Terraces & their Cave Temples are easily accessed via granite paths & 500 or so Steps - be prepared to work a little to make it to the top.

Housed in the Caves located at different levels while ascending the Rock, are a number of large reclining Buddha statues interspersed with smaller sitting & standing figures & Devalayas.

Vying with the Statues, are some fantastic ancient Murals depicting sinners pleasuring themselves with forbidden fruit on Earth & then paying for it with an afterlife of eternal torture - apparently it was worth it! Further on up & perched on top of the Rock 673 feet high from the base, is a small Dagoba with fine views over the surrounding country.

One of the Cave houses a Library in which, a most important discovery was made in 1826 by a British Administrator, George Turnour, who found a number of Olas (palm-leaf Manuscripts) containing the key to translating the Mahawamsa, the 'Great Chronicle of Sri Lanka'. Turnour's discovery of the Tika (or commentary), made it possible for the Mahawamsa to be translated from Pali first into English & then into Sinhala. This translation then enabled European Scholars to study the history of the Island from 543 BC to comparatively modern times & unlocked Sri Lanka to the Europeans.

Temples, in some form or another, have been located here for over 2000 years, but the current incarnations & their paintings, date from the 18^th century. Nearby is a Buddhist School for young aspiring Monks.

Also worth visiting is a natural wonder of Hummanaya Blowhole, 11.2 km north of the town in the Fishing village of Kudawella.

The quiet Village is dotted with local Vendors selling handicrafts, street food & refreshing beverages. Enjoy scenic views of the beautiful blue coast as you walk along the Pathway leading to the attraction. From the main entrance & Ticket Counter, walk through rugged terrain before reaching the Viewing Point for this natural attraction. The Blowhole attracts locals & tourists from around the world to witness its magnificence.

Visitors have to climb up to a rocky outcrop with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Once at the summit, you will get a clear view of this natural wonder.

This is the only known Blowhole in Sri Lanka & is considered to be the 2^nd largest in the world, that sprays a jet of sea water into the air between 2 giant rocks; sometimes reaching heights of over 80 - 100 feet, with a loud "hoo" sound, that can be heard quite a distance away. It was formed when a crack appeared between rock cliffs & waves causing water to spurt through.

Be amazed at this phenomenon, once in every 10-20 minutes, The best time to see this is during High Tide, as you can experience the salty spray on your skin as seawater jets towards the sky and falls back on its wide-eyed audience.

Can be visited at any time during the day but the best time to see this is during High Tide. Feel the salty spray on your skin as seawater jets shoots towards the sky & then falls back on its wide-eyed audience.

The best time to see the natural water firework is during the South-West Monsoon in between the months of April-September. However, it cannot be guaranteed that you will witness the event.

Another amazing Temple is Wewurukannala, home to the largest golden Statue of Buddha figure in Sri Lanka.

The Wewurukannala Vihara Temple is dominated by 160 feet high Statue of a seated Buddha. It dates back to the time of King Rajadhi (1782 - 1798).

The Temple has 3 Sections, the oldest being about 250 years old. The next Section has life size models of Demons & Sinners, shown in graphic detail, illustrating what can happen to those who do not follow the path of enlightenment.  Punishments depicted include being drowned in boiling cauldrons, sawn in half, disemboweled & so on. Finally, in the 3^rd Section, there is the enormous seated Buddha that is as high as an 8 storied building. To reach the Buddha, visitors must first pass through that Hall of creepy statues of Demons & Sinners suffering their ill fate. The route implies a welcome relief at the end of the journey when you reach Buddha.

The Temple walls show you the path towards enlightenment by depicting hundreds of comic strip representations of events in the Buddha’s life. One of the episodes is, the Chulla Dhammapala Jataka which tells the story of how King Maha Prathapa of Varanasi on entering the Palace found the Queen cuddling 7 month old child & she ignored the King. The enraged King ordered that the infant Prince be executed & the body be thrown into the air. One depicts the Kattahari Jataka showing Prince Kastavahana, son of King Brahmadatta resting with his entourage.

The Temple Museum is also interesting for those who have the time to spare.

There is an impressive large Clock in front of the Temple building. The mechanism of the Clock is protected inside a glass cubicle.

It was built by a local craftsman called W. Elaris De Silva from Maggona in 1926 & purchased by the Priest in 1928 for a sum of 3000 rupees. This mechanical masterpiece still works today & rings at the Puja time every morning & evening.

There is also the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, first declared as a protected area in 1938, originally with 2,500 hectares & it has been a haven for wildlife since. The Sanctuary is a diverse mix of habitats such as coastal Lagoons, Mangrove swamps & open Grasslands making it a perfect home for both Marine life & Bird life. It makes a peaceful & laid-back trip for those who wish to birdwatch & more active trip for those who love to trek through jungle paths. The area is recognised as being home to 4 nationally threatened bird species - Indian Reef Heron (Egretta gularis), Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus), Black-capped Purple Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata), Sri Lankan Junglefowl (Gallus lafayettii) as well as other Birdlife & 38 species of Reptiles.

Morning, depart for Galle.

Enroute, stop in Matara at a local Bakery to taste some of Sri Lanka’s delicious short eats from fish buns to vegetable rolls & uludu wade’s.

Reach Galle & Check-in at the hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Shortly after, meet the Tour-guide & embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic city.

The quaint town of Galle, situated on the southwestern corner of the Island, close to Colombo, was once the chief Port of Ceylon & is a living time capsule. Most travellers are utterly seduced by Galle's ambience & it is undoubtedly southern Sri Lanka's one unmissable sight.

Galle, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic, given its historical value, cities, is the place to go when you need to return to a simpler pace of life and the rush of Colombo has you longing for beautiful coastlines, delectable food & traditions of Craft passed down through the generations.

The administrative Capital of Southern Province, Galle (pronounced 'gawl'in English & 'gaar-le' in Sinhala), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a jewel - the big unmissable destination in the south.

Once endlessly exotic, bursting with the scent of spices & salty winds & yet also, with its wonderful collection of iconic architectural landmarks, which include the city’s natural Harbour, the National Maritime Museum, St. Mary’s Cathedral founded by Jesuit priests & one of the most prominent Shiva Temple on the Island.

Imposing Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient Mosques & Churches, grand Mansions & Museums, is a delight to explore on foot. Classic architecture melds with a dramatic tropical setting to create a reality that is endlessly interesting. Galle is a jewel - the big unmissable destination in the south and is a Cty of Trade & increasingly, Art.

There are 2 explanations as to how Galle ended up with its name today. One suggests that the City is said to have been named after the Sinhala term, Gaalla, which directly translates to the place where cattle herd gather. This could be directly related to the City’s identity as a gathering point for citizens from all over the country who travelled to Galle by bullock cart, which resulted in hundreds of carts & cattle being stationed all around the city.

Another alternate explanation is derived from the city’s Dutch colonial past & the Dutch word “Gallus”, which means rooster which was the symbol used by the Colonizers around the City. No matter where the City’s name originates from, one thing is for certain and that is that the City is one of the Island’s most recognized in many parts of the world. The city’s rich Cricketing history & famous Cricket Stadium, located under the shadow of the renowned Galle Fort.

It was initially known as Gimhathiththa prior to the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16^th century, when it was the main trading Port for spices & other goods for over 200 years. There is a distinct Portuguese influence in the Architecture, Temples & Cuisine.

Galle rose in significance during the 17^th & 18^th centuries, during the Dutch & Portuguese colonial period, when it became one of the best examples of a fortified city built by the Portuguese in the whole of South & Southeast Asia. 

But, Galle's core is the UNESCO World Heritage listed Fort, the 36 hectare walled enclave forming the older part of the city, surrounded on 3 sides by the ocean, initially built by the Portuguese in the 16^th century during their conquests & later fortified by the Dutch when they controlled it in the 17^th century. Later, it fell to the might of the British. Today, it is the largest remaining colonial era Fortress in all of Asia. Made up of crooked alleyways, the tropical Fort is a melting pot of past & present influences.

Described by the notoriously hard-to-please Paul Theroux as being ‘garlanded with red hibiscus & smelling of the palm-scented ocean, the Fort is an amazing collection of structures & culture dating back through the centuries.

A key part of the Fort’s allure is, it remains a working community: inside there are administrative Offices, Courts, export Companies, Schools & lots of regular folks populating the streets & a definite buzz of energy in the air.

The Dutch Reformed Church, originally built in 1640, the present building dates from 1752. Its floor is paved with gravestones from Dutch Cemeteries, while other impressive features include the Organ & an imposing Pulpit made from calamander wood & topped by a grand hexagonal Canopy. You may encounter the friendly Caretaker who will likely point out the (slightly bizarre) carved wooden Memorial dedicated to a former Commander of Galle, Abraham Samlant - the tiny cotton shirt is said to be the one he was baptised in.

Above all else, Galle is a city of Trade & increasingly, Art. Galle is still well known for its hand-made lace. Today, the historic Fort area is crammed full of little boutique Shops, Cafes & excellent boutique Hotels owned by local & foreign Artists, Writers, Photographers, Designers & Poets.

A 3^rd of the houses are owned by foreigners & speculators as the locals are busy selling their often amazing unrestored vintage buildings to them.

In addition to its important historical & religious sights, the region is also known for its significant natural & geographical features, which includes Rumassala, a large Hill that forms the eastern protective barrier to Galle Harbour. Local lore links the Hill to some of the Ramayana’s major events – one of Hinduism’s greatest stories.

The tropical Rainforests at Hiyare & Kanneliya, close to Galle, provide opportunities for nature walks where you can see some of the Island’s endemic flora & fauna. The golden sandy Beaches along the southern coast & a number of luxurious Retreats makes Sri Lanka’s south coast an ideal escape from frenetic everyday life.

The city is also home to the famous Galle Literary Festival in January, which draws Authors from all over the country & the world.

Commence your exploration.

Begin with a visit to Galle’s natural harbour & historic Dutch Fortress - Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, originally built by the Portuguese & later extended by the Dutch in 1663. Still as polished & new, the Fortress holds more than 400 years of history housing a Museum, towering Light House & imposing Ramparts. Pass through one of the Fort gates & you are transported back to the Dutch colonial era.

Pass by the Old Gate, the entrance with a beautifully carved British coat of arms on top, to the buildings on the other side. Inside, the letters VOC, standing for Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (Dutch East India Company), are inscribed in the stone with the date 1669, flanked by 2 lions & topped by a cockerel.