Sri Lanka 2018 1
Itinerary Following a clockwise route across the island, we travel to the atmospheric ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Mihintale, and Polonnuara and then on to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, into the hill country for walks among tea estates and verdant valleys, before travelling back to the coast for a relaxing finale. Day 1: Depart UK Day 2: Arrival day Late afternoon arrival into Colombo where we ll be met and transferred to our hotel. Introductory briefing to the holiday. There may be time for a short walk by the Diyawanna Oya lake near the Parliament buildings or in Victoria Park. Accommodation: Hotel OZO, Colombo (1 night). (Meals included: dinner) Day 3: Anuradhapura The jewel of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is an island rich in history, where you can roam the magnificent ancient cities of the island s golden age, admire the beautiful gardens and tea estates from the days of British rule, and watch for wildlife in the nature reserves and rolling central hills. Wonderful walks reveal tropical panoramas, and the chance to see great wildlife, and explore the vast variety of landscapes that Sri Lanka has to offer. Every visitor is assured a friendly welcome from the famously hospitable Sri Lankan people. We start the day with a walk through a RAMSAR wetland reserve before travelling to the most northerly point of our journey through Sri Lanka, the ancient city at Anuradhapura (3.5 miles/6km, flat). This afternoon we enjoy a walking tour around the central area of Anuradhapura, the first capital and the grandest city of Ceylon, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the Brazen Palace, where 1,600 stone columns stand as the remains of a magnificent multi-storied residence for monks dating from 200BC. We will also see the ruins of the Ruwanweliseya Dagoba, the Samadhi Buddha statue 2
and the rock temple of Isurumuniya, all of these dating back over 2,000 years. Accommodation: Palm Garden Village (2 nights) Day 4: Mihintale This morning we will take a short journey to Mihintale. It is said that Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka at Mihintale in 247BC and since then various kings of the island have built magnificent pieces of architecture here. These include a hospital, a monastic complex, stupas and dagobas. While some of these structures are in an almost perfect state of preservation, others are in complete ruin. We walk around the atmospheric temples and jungle and see the spectacular Kantaka Chaitiya temple. Exploring the whole of Mihintale ancient city does involve a degree of climbing, although it is done at a leisurely pace. There is an optional climb to the summit of the rock, which involves an ascent of more than 1,800 steps to the temple, then a further 150 steps to the summit. This afternoon we enjoy a walk to the reservoir near the Palm Garden Hotel, a good spot for birdwatching (2.5 miles/4km, flat). years old and intricately carved out of a single rock. After lunch we take a chance to explore the local area and the surrounding villages, with a nature walk (3.5 miles/6km, flat) and a short canoe journey. Later there ll be an opportunity for a jeep safari to Minneriya Wildlife Park (payable locally) Accommodation: Aliya Hotel & Spa (2 nights) Day 6: Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa Today we will see more of Sri Lanka s ancient heritage and walk around mysterious sites surrounded by jungle. Our first stop is the impressive Sigiriya. The Sigiriya rock fortress was built in the 5th century in the reign of King Kashyapa and rises 200 metres from the scrub jungle. The Lion Rock was the innermost stronghold of the 70ha fortified town and was surrounded by a moat, rampart and extensive gardens, including some lovely water gardens. We explore the area around the rock and the gardens and visit the beautifully preserved frescoes of the Heavenly Maidens of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway and painted in earth pigments on plaster. Day 5: To Aukana and Habarana This morning we continue to the Dambulla area. We will enjoy a walk to the Aukana Buddha, a well preserved 13 metre statue over 1,000 3
seafarers and they are still central to the Sri Lankan way of life. Lunch can be taken here. This afternoon we arrive in Kandy, the easy-going city in the hills with a bustling centre of old shops, markets, guesthouses and restaurants and a rich and interesting history. After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa. It was the second capital city of Sri Lanka, built in the 11th and 12th centuries. Here we will explore the ruins of the Royal Palace, with four Buddha statues carved out of the rock, the Lotus Bath and the lake built by King Pararamabahu. The scattered temples and ruins are in relatively good repair and in a lovely garden setting. We will visit the intricate Gil Vihara statues before returning to the hotel. Day 7: Dambulla and to Kandy This morning we head towards the hill country. We stop off for a walk at Dambulla rock temple, dating from the 1st century BC. This complex of five cave temples with amazing painted walls and ceiling is the largest complex of painted caves in the world. The caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha, with one massive figure over 14 metres high carved out of the rock. After lunch, on the journey to Kandy, we stop off at a spice garden to see the cultivation of a variety of spices used in cuisine and medication. Spices attracted early merchants and This evening we will visit the Temple of the Tooth. According to legend the tooth relic was brought to Sri Lanka all the way from the mouth of the Ganges by Hemamali. It is said that the hills of Sri Lanka were chosen as the resting place for the sacred relic as Lord Buddha said that the religion would be safe in Sri Lanka for 2,500 years. Accommodation: Hotel OZO, Kandy (3 nights) (Meals included: breakfast, dinner) Day 8: Kandy This morning we will visit the lovely Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. The gardens are set on a loop of the Mahaweli Ganga River and hold a rich collection of flora from across Asia. The Royal Palm Avenue leads to the centre of the gardens, the centrepiece of which is the remnants of a giant Javan fig tree. 4
The gardens also have their wild places and you may see troops of macaque monkeys foraging in the bushes and a great number of flying foxes dangling from the trees. This afternoon will be at leisure. Stay and explore Kandy, take a dip in the hotel pool, or enjoy a walk along one of the tea trails that lead from the hotel. We will then be taken to see a performance of traditional Sri Lankan dance. Day 9: Kandy and the surrounding area This morning we take a walk to explore Embekke and Lankathilake devales. The walk winds its way from the exquisitely carved temple at Embekke, through the paddy fields and villages to Lankathilake temple. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife along the way. The walk involves no significant ascent and will take around 2-2½ hours. This afternoon is free for relaxation, or take a short walk from the hotel, exploring the surrounding hills. This morning we depart Kandy and take the train to Nanoya, near Nuwara Eliya, which takes approx 4 hours. In the afternoon, time permitting, we ll enjoy a leisurely walk, introducing us to Nuwara Eliya town. The town was built in the 19th century, its architecture mimicking an English country town with its country house styled properties, and mock-tudor timber facades. The cool mountain air makes a refreshing change for our walks. Accommodation: Grand Hotel (2 nights), Nuwara Eliya Day 11: Horton Plains & Pedro Estates An early start for todays walks which leads us through the mysterious and tranquil Horton Plains National Park. We will take a circular walk on the plateau, where a network of trails takes us through varied vegetation to Baker s Falls. There is interesting wildlife in this area, in particular native bird species. Keep your binoculars and camera handy. Distance approx 5 miles/9km with approx 100m ascent/descent. Day 12: Nuwara Eliya Day 10: Train to Hatton and onwards to Nuwara Eliya This morning we take a walk up through the tea and village trails along Gregory s Lake. In the afternoon, depending on access, we ll visit the Pedro tea plantations. In the afternoon, depending on access, we ll visit the Pedro tea plantations. 5
magnificent Duth fort is the most popular attraction of the town. 300 year old Dutch atmosphere is still very much alive around the fort and amidst its many buildings not invaded by skyscrapers. The beautiful beach of Unawatuna is just 6km east of the city center. The tea bushes of this highland region produce some of the world s finest Orange Pekoe tea. Day 13: To Galle via Kithulgala Today we travel to the coast. This is a long journey, but with some stunning visits and walks en route. Day 14: Optional visit to turtle hatchery and river cruise at Maadu Day 15: Departure day Early transfer to Colombo airport for our return flight. (Meals included: packed breakfast) This morning treats us to short walks for views of the St Clair and Devon s waterfalls. St Clair Falls is known to the locals as the Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, and though it may not be the biggest fall in Sri Lanka, it boasts being the widest. Both fall from heights of 80-90 metres, and are set amidst stunning scenery. We stop for lunch amidst the lush green scenery of the small town of Kitulgala. The town and its river were the setting for the film, Bridge on the River Kwai. We then continue on our journey to Galle. Accommodation: Hotel Amari, Galle (3 nights) Day 14: Galle The capital of the southern province is a city with a colourful history. UNESCO declared Wold Heritage Site the 6
Accommodation On arrival stay at the 4 star Hotel OZO (1 night) in the centre of the city, approx 45 minutes from the airport. is a fantastic location from which to explore the surrounding area. www.ozohotels.com www.ozohotels.com At Anuradhapura we stay at the Palm Garden Village Hotel (2 nights). Well equipped rooms are set in chalets in extensive gardens with a large swimming pool. A lovely place to relax after visiting the ancient cities. www.palmgardenvillage.com We then head to the relaxing Aliya Resort & Spa is located in the heart of Sri Lanka's 'Cultural Triangle' with panoramic and breathtaking views of Sigiriya the Lion Rock and Pidurangala Rock Temple. Each of the rooms is en-suite and offer spacious, comfortable rooms in a tranquil setting. There is also a large outdoor view. www.theme-resorts.com In Nuwara Eliya, we stay at the Grand Hotel (2 nights), a 4-star former colonial residence. The hotel is surrounded by lush green scenery and provides the perfect base to explore the surrounding countryside and tea trails. http://www.tangerinehotels.com/gran d-hotel-nuwaraeliya.html Overlooking the Indian Ocean the Amari Galle is a new (opened late 2016), 5 star hotel which features a private beach area, outdoor pool and spa. Each room has air conditioning and some feature a terrace or balcony from which you can enjoy the sunset. Three nights here provide the perfect finale to your holiday. We stay again at the 4 star OZO Hotel. This property is located in the historically rich setting of Kandy and offers views over the mist-covered mountains. Only minutes away from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic it 7
Before your holiday We hope you find this information comprehensive if not please visit our website for more details or contact us. All details correct at time of writing (July 2016). Passport and visa requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel. We would advise that you check your government s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check www.fco.gov.uk In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as follows: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm Tel +44 (0)345 470 7558 or +44(0)20 8732 1250 ( from overseas) Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am Tel +44 (0)7918 737777 Airport parking & accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote HX031 or book online at www.holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays Kit List Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel. Walking boots (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces Walking sandals/flip flops (shoes that can be easily taken on and off at temples Walking socks Lightweight fleece Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket Shorts Long trousers and long-sleeved light coloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun your clothing should ideally be pretreated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor) Sun hat Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing Sun protection sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection Water bottle at least 2 litre capacity Lightweight survival bag Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains Soap and hand sanitizer gel Insect repellent Universal adaptor plug Universal sink plug Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, 8
antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays registration form Optional: leech socks, temple socks (if you don t want to walk barefoot through the temples) trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars, swimming costume and towel. Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method. Please note that your HF Holidays leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety. Baggage allowance 1 piece checked-in luggage (max 30kg). Please check details of your airline s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked. Passports & visas Passports must be valid for six months from date of entry and have one blank page. ETAs are required. These need to be obtained in advance. To apply for your ETA visit http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The current cost is $40. Travel insurance If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. This should cover walking at altitudes of above 2,000m. Health advice This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Tetanus vaccinations are recommended. Malaria, Diphtheria and Rabies prevention are sometimes recommended too. Cases of Dengue Fever are on the increase in Sri Lanka, and all regions within the country are experiencing outbreaks of this mosquito borne disease. You should take steps to avoid being bitten. Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or overthe-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country s embassy/ consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution: Keep your medication in its original packet Take a copy of your prescription too If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country that you re visiting Dietary requirements Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements. We will do our best to accommodate you. If you require a specific meal on the flight, 9
please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel. Travel tips for a comfortable flight We ve put together a few simple tips to help make your flight as comfortable as possible, ensuring you begin your holiday in tip-top shape. Move about. Change position and avoid crossing your legs. Immobility poses the greatest risk in the development of clotting disorders. Get out of your seat and walk around as regularly as possible to improve circulation No pills. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take sleeping tablets on the flight; this will reduce your mobility and make you feel sluggish Protect your ears. If you experience discomfort due to the cabin pressure changes, suck a sweet, chew, or hold your nostrils and gently blow through your nose; this should equalise the pressure. If you still experience problems, speak to a member of the cabin crew Drink plenty. Ask a member of the cabin crew if you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee or carbonated drinks as these will dehydrate you. Instead, try to drink plenty of fruit juices or water Eat light. Avoid heavy meals and foods air expands at altitude and heavy meals will result in that bloated feeling Moisturise. Your skin, especially your lips and nostrils, may feel dry so moisturising creams may help. If you wear contact lenses, always carry your glasses with you, as your eyes may feel dryer than usual Stay loose. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shoes and clothes Flight socks are recommended to help prevent DVT on longhaul flights Lost/damaged luggage If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport. They will assess the damage and in some cases the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately. You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if settlement cannot be reached. In many cases baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport. HF Holidays with-flight guests For those travelling on our HF Holidays group flight, please proceed to the arrivals hall once you have passed through passport control, customs and baggage reclaim, when you arrive at your destination. Your leader or local leader will assemble the group in the arrivals hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. Independent travellers If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the 10
group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group. If your flight arrives before the group flight and you would like to join the transfer to the first hotel, please contact our Abroad Administration team on (0)20 8732 1271. They will have a list of the relevant transfer costs. Safety on your holiday Once you have made your booking, you will receive a pre-holiday questionnaire where we ask for details of next of kin, and insurance details. We need to have this from you at least 4 weeks before travel. Please also inform us of any medical situation which may affect your enjoyment of the holiday Please listen to any safety instructions from the leader Keep group members in view, especially if weather or visibility is poor If you become separated from the group, please stay where you are, the leader will retrace their steps to find you Each leader carries a first aid kit but is not allowed to supply any medication including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines, and antiseptic cream. You may wish to bring these items with you In the unlikely event that your leader is incapacitated, please use any emergency kit in their rucksack and call emergency services on 110(ambulance & fire), or 119 (police). Please then call our emergency number (see page 8) and let us know there is a problem. Tipping Tips have been included in your holiday price for key services such as local guides/ driver/restaurants. Any additional tips are at your own discretion. Climate Sri Lanka is warm and sunny year round with average temperatures of 27 C (80 F) on the coast and around 20 C (68 F) in the hills. It can rain at any time of the year, but the driest season in the west, south and central highlands is October to March. Local currency & money matters Sri Lankan Rupee (Rp). Credit cards are widely accepted. The tourist board urges caution when paying by credit card due to the potential for fraud. ATMs can be found in major cities, although not all will accept international cards. We would recommend bringing cash in Pounds Sterling or Sri Lankan Rupees as much of the holiday is spent outside towns and cities. Traveller s cheques are not advised. Suggested reading and maps Lonely Planet Sri Lanka 2015 John Gimlette Elephant Complex 2015 Maps can be obtained in advance from The Mapshop www.themapshop.co.uk Electricity 11
220V, either round 2 pin plugs or round 3 pin plugs. Group size Group size will be maximum 17 plus HF Holidays leader and local guides Time difference GMT/UTC +5.5 hours HF Holidays Ltd, Catalyst House, Centennial Court, Elstree, Borehamwood, WD6 3SY, UK 12