Magical Romance

A warm welcome to Sri Lanka! After clearing immigration formalities and having collected your baggage, you will be met at the airport by a Magical Paradise representative who will whisk you away to the bustling beach town of Negombo less than five kilometres away to relax and rejuvenate before embarking on a Magical Romance tour of Sri Lanka. Depending upon the time of your arrival, a tour of Negombo will be an interesting experience.

Some must see sights in Negombo:

The Negombo fish market| Negombo lagoon | Dutch Fort ruins | Catholic church locations | Hamilton Canal | Angurukaramulla temple |

An overnight stay is arranged at the fascinating 5 star beach hotel, Jetwing Blue Negombo, an original design concept by famed Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa.

Jetwing Blue Negombo

After breakfast, the day begins with an exciting air taxi ride to the famed Sigiriya Lion Rock in Central Sri Lanka. The air taxi will provide a unique bird’s-eye view of this 200 metre high rock edifice on top of which sits a ruined palace   a 200 metre high massive rock column, in central Sri Lanka. The air taxi ride offers a unique birds eye view of this awe-inspiring 5th century cultural site. Sigiriya is famed for its has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982 and is an excellent example of ancient urban planning. There are many things to see and learn in Sigiriya and its ancient civilisation.

The rock fortress of Sigiriya is a virtual 5th Century ‘fortress in the sky’. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as the ‘Lion’s Rock’, Sigiriya is famous for it’s palace ruins on top of a massive 200 meter high rock surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. It is regarded as an architectural masterpiece and 8th wonder of the ancient world.

Evening hours: Elephant safari at Minneriya and Kaudulla national parks

Minneriya is the place to witness the largest Asian elephant ‘Gathering’ known to exist on the planet.  Watch as elephants socialise, drink, play and snack on the lush grasses that have been exposed by the receding waters of the reservoir. Approximately 150-300 elephants may be seen on a good day during the dry season.  

Overnight stay at the Kalundewa Retreat.

Go on a romantic hot air balloon flight early in the morning!

Ballooning silently the surrounding jungle, you are sure to see wildlife including elephants, exotic birds, water buffaloes standing in the paddy fields and monkeys swinging from the trees…enjoy a spectacular sunrise across the Kandalama tank as it bathes the landscape in its rays. Spot the majestic seated Golden Buddha statue of Dambulla at one end and Sigiriya on the opposite end.

Evening hours: Explore Dambulla Cave Temple.

This temple complex dates back to the first century BCE.  It has five caves under a vast overhanging rock, carved with a drip line to keep the interiors dry. In 1938 the architecture was embellished with arched colonnades and gabled entrances. Inside the caves, the ceilings are painted with intricate patterns of religious images following the contours of the rock. There are images of the Lord Buddha and bodhisattvas, as well as various gods and goddesses.

The Dambulla cave monastery is still functional and remains the best-preserved ancient edifice in Sri Lanka. This complex dates from the third and second centuries BC, when it was already established as one of the largest and most important monasteries. King Walagamba of Anuradhapura is traditionally thought to have converted the caves into a temple in the first century BC. (Courtesy: Wikipedia)

Overnight stay at the Kalundewa Retreat.

After a hearty breakfast, ride on the road to the mountain region of the Knuckles Range. Then continue to a spice garden close to the town of Matale and learn about the many cosmetic and therapeutic uses of popular spices and herbs. There is time to immerse in a cooking class and enjoy a delicious lunch.

The winding road, with its sharp hairpin turns, offers some of the best views of the
surrounding countryside and is informally referred to as the ‘Mini World’s End’, offering breathtaking views of the natural beauty of the country.

Overnight stay at the Mountain Villa Riverston luxury bungalow.

After an early breakfast, take the opportunity to experience an exciting half-day trekking session in the eco-tourism hotspot of the Knuckles Mountains Range. This nature walk will help appreciate the diversity of flora and fauna in this protected area as well as breathtaking scenery.

After the morning session in the Knuckles range, continue on to explore Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka Kandy and the last stronghold of the ancient kings. There is much to be seen in Kandy and includes the Lake Drive, Market Square, Kandy City Centre (KCC), Gem Museum, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Overnight stay is arranged at the Santani Resort and Spa.

Immerse in an unforgettable day of relaxation and total seclusion at one of the latest wellness resorts in Sri Lanka.  The minimally designed 5 star Santani Resort and Spa is situated on a 48 acre abandoned tea estate in the highlands of Teldeniya, Kandy. Santani has won global acclaim for its unique approach to eco-tourism and ayurveda experience since its opening in 2016.  The temperature at the resort located 2800 feet above sea level is cool and comfortable. Engage in spa treatments that will rejuvenate your tired muscles and inner being. Santani is ideal to learn yoga or meditation or just do what you will.

Overnight stay at the Santani Resort and Spa.

Kitulgala is a small town in the west of Sri Lanka located in the wet zone rainforest. Drenched with two monsoons each year, the area one of the wettest places in the country.

Kitulgala is a popular base for white water rafting, which starts a few kilometres upstream on the Kelani river and is a hotspot for adventure based training programs. The 7 Kilometre rafting adventure that you could engage in is not very demanding and is ideal for beginners.

Kithulgala is also remembered as the location where the Academy award winning movie ‘Bridge on the River Kwai’ had important scenes filmed on the Kelani River near Kitulgala,in the 1950’s. (Wikipedia input)

After an adventurous day, relax and enjoy an overnight stay at the Palmstone Retreat in Kithulgala.

Overnight stay at the Palmstone Retreat in Kithulgala.

After an early breakfast, we will proceed towards Belihuloya, about a 100 Km drive away in the Ratnapura district.  Belihuloya is a romantic destination that has many noteworthy natural attractions to see including numerous waterfalls, trekking on nature trails etc. You will also visit ‘Ahaspokuna’ an all-suite camp that provides a unique experience via bush walks, guided by naturalists into the area wilderness.

Overnight stay at Palmstone Retreat Kithulgala.

After breakfast let’s continue towards Ella.

Ella is a small village located in the highlands of Sri Lanka. It is blessed with some of the most beautiful views.  This small town is used as a base for trekking voyages to the surrounding countryside. Once in Ella, catch the train to the Nanu-Oya railway station. This train ride is considered one of the most scenic in the world.

You could also decide to climb Ella Rock, the hikers’ paradise that affords many interesting treks and scenic sights. On the way, take the railroad tracks before reaching the top of the rock from where you will get a fantastic view. Continue through the eucalyptus forest with the possibility of reaching Ravana falls and taking a refreshing swim and a picnic lunch by the water. Do a fun tuk-tuk safari through the tea plantations of Haputale on the way to Lipton’s Seat…

Main Attractions of the area:

Nine Arch Bridge | Mini Adam’s peak | Ravana Falls | Ella Gap | Lipton’s seat

Overnight stay in Ella, at the 98 Acres Resort and Spa

After an early morning scenic tour in Elle, we will head towards the Udawalawe National Park located in the dry zone of the country. Get ready for a fun afternoon jeep safari

across the park that is reputed for its large population of elephants. You can also see a variety of other wild animals such as crocodiles, giant lizards and a variety of aquatic birds. The Udawalawe park often surpasses many of the famous East African national parks for elephant watching. It is the third most visited park in Sri Lanka.

Overnight stay at the Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort.

After breakfast, we will leave Udawalawe and continue the journey to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. It is an important national park and a biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka that has been designated a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Sinharaja Rain Forest is located in the south-west lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka. it was first declared a forest reserve in 1875. To explore Sinharaja, you must go by foot as it is not accessible by jeep or any other vehicle. A trekking trip through this hilly virgin rainforest is a unique experience.

The main focus when trekking through the rainforest are the insects, amphibians, reptiles birds and small mammals. Most species found here are protected and unique to the island.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Sinharaja.

Tangalle is a regionally important fishing port, situated in one of the largest bays in Sri Lanka. The bay is protected from the ocean by an enclosing reef. The Dutch and subsequently the British used Tangalle as an important anchorage on the southern coast of the island. The Dutch fort, Rest house and Court house are a few remaining examples of Dutch architecture in Tangalle.

Enjoy a leisurely day at the hotel where you can go surfing in the turquoise waters of Tangalle. Yoga lovers can engage in a rejuvenating session of relaxing exercise and meditation.  Explore the coastline and look for small creeks where you can swim in safety. Relax in the bay area with amazing ocean views.

Overnight stay at the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort.

After a relaxing time in Tangalle, let’s proceed to Mirissa.

Mirissa has a picture-postcard perfect beach along the south coast.

Mirissa and its breathtaking sandy beaches will change your perceptions of a tropical paradise! This secluded crescent shaped beach is the perfect place to sit back, relax and forget about the world!

A whale or dolphin watching expedition ia arranged for you at the Mirissa harbour at 6.30 am.

Whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa is one of the most exciting water activities you can do in Sri Lanka during your holiday. Whale watching season starts in July and ends in April. The ocean is warm and calm during these months.

Explore the Galle Dutch Fort

The Galle fort is situated in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka.  The fort was built initially in 1588 by the Portuguese and then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards.

It is a historical, archaeological, and architectural heritage monument that even after more than four centuries continues to maintain a polished appearance.  Extensive reconstruction and preservation work on the Galle fort has been undertaken by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.

Optional : Bicycle Tour of the Galle fort and vicinity.

Overnight stay at the W15 Weligama, a luxury beach boutique hotel in Weligama.

As your holiday in Sri Lanka winds down, it’s time to proceed with happy memories back to the airport to catch your flight back home.

En-route, if you wish to take a look at the conservation of turtles, a visit can be arranged. The turtle hatcheries are open from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm on most days. If you wish to release a freshly hatched three-day old turtle into the ocean, this is the place.

It is also possible to stop en-route to visit the Galle Dutch Fort.

The Galle fort is situated in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka.  The fort was built initially in 1588 by the Portuguese and then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards.

It is a historical, archaeological, and architectural heritage monument that even after more than four centuries continues to maintain a polished appearance.  Extensive reconstruction and preservation work on the Galle fort has been undertaken by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.