andBeyond Sri Lanka

ESSENCE OF SRI LANKA - 14 NIGHTS/ 15 DAYS

Let your imagination soar

About andBeyond

AndBeyond is a pioneering, experiential travel company that offers forward-thinking, global travellers an exclusive experience of the world as it should be; a world that is in balance with itself. We go beyond mere luxury to enrich your guests’ experience through o ur core ethos of Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, and Care of the People. AndBeyond has 29 exquisite safari lodges and camps across Africa and South America, and we also design personalised, high -end tours in 15 African countries, India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador and Peru.

Welcome to Sri Lanka

The tear drop shaped island of Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean just off the southern tip of India. With its golden sandy beaches, azure blue waters and warm tropical climate, Sri Lanka is a year-round destination for holidaymakers seeking sun, sand and sea.

The island has a rich cultural heritage that dates back over 2,000 years which is linked to the origins of Buddhism in the country with magnificently constructed stupas and the ruins of ancient kingdoms. Controlled from the 16th century onwards by the Portuguese, Dutch and finally the British prior to gaining full independence in 1948, the influences of colonial powers remain visible in architecture and a number of forts across the country.

Sri Lanka is recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot with a rich variety of endemic flora and fauna, and incredibly for a small island, can boast of large iconic animals such as the Asian Elephant, Leopard and the largest animal to have inh abited our planet, the Blue Whale. From palm fringed beaches to scrub jungles and numerous man -made lakes in the lowlands to tropical rainforests, cloud forests and highlands laden with waterfalls at its centre, this resplendent isle is abundant in natural beauty.

Highlights of the Itinerary:

 Explore the ruins in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa

 Climb the world famous Rock Fortress in Sigiriya

 Visit Minneriya or Kaudulla national parks in search for wild Asian elephants

 Walk with pilgrims to the famous tooth relic temple in Kandy

At a glanc e Sri Lanka

14 nights / 15 days

AN ANDBEYOND CUSTOM-DESIGNED ITINERARY

Day 1

Arrive at Colombo’s Bandaranayake International Airport, Katunayake

Welcome on arrival and transferred to Colombo (approximately. 1 hour drive)

Arrive in Colombo and check in to the hotel

Overnight at The Kingsbury, Colombo – 02 Nights

ACCOMMODATION

Day 2

After breakfast, visit Geoffrey Bawa’s house and explore some of his designs Colombo

Have your lunch at Galley Café, Colombo - (Optional -cost not included)

After lunch, go on a walking tour of Colombo with a host

Overnight at The Kingsbury, Colombo

Superior City View – Breakfast Only

Superior City View – Breakfast Only

Day 3

After breakfast, proceed to Habarana (approximately. 3 ½ hour drive)

Check in to hotel and spend rest of the day at leisure

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana -3 Nights

Superior Room – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4

After an early breakfast, proceed to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes drive)

Arrive and climb the 5th century rock fortress of Sigiriya

Thereafter proceed to Polonnaruwa (approximately 1 ½ hours’ drive)

Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa on bicycles

Thereafter, have your lunch at a local restaurant in Polonnaruwa

Afterwards return to Cinnamon Lodge

Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana

After a leisurely breakfast, explore a remote village on bicycles

Day 5

Engage in an authentic local cooking class followed by lunch in a typical local house

After lunch, venture on a Jeep Safari at Minneriya or Hurulu

National Park to look for wild Asian elephants

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana

After breakfast proceed to Kandy (approximately 2 ½ hour drive)

Superior Room – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6

En route visit a tropical spice farm in Matale,

Have a traditionally prepared rice and curry lunch at the spice farm.

Continue the journey to Kandy

Arrive and explore the most sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy

Thereafter, check in to hotel in Kandy

Overnight at Jetwing Kandy Gallery, Kandy – 2 Nights

Superior Room – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7

After breakfast, explore the city of Kandy in local taxis known as Tuk Tuks

Afterwards proceed to Jacques Soulié’s arts centre

Go on a guided tour and have your lunch at the arts centre

Later in the afternoon, meet and interact with a traditional dancer and a drummer in the area

Deluxe Room – Breakfast Only

Day 8

Overnight at Jetwing Kandy Gallery, Kandy

Today after breakfast, board a train from Kandy and go on a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 2 ½ hour ride)

Arrive in Nanuoya Railway station and proceed to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Overnight at W15 Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya – 2 nights

Deluxe Room – Breakfast Only

Day 9

After breakfast proceed to Hakgala (approximately 30 minutes’ drive)

Visit and explore the Botanical Gardens.

Later, visit a working Tea estate and a factory in Nuwara Eliya

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight at W15 Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya

Deluxe Room – Breakfast Only

Deluxe Room – Breakfast Only

Day 10

Breakfast at hotel and then proceed on a long journey to Yala (approximately 4/½ hour drive)

Arrive in Yala and check in to Cinnamon Wild, Yala

Relax and unwind after a long drive, spend the rest of the day at leisure

Overnight at Cinnamon Wild, Yala – 2 nights

Morning and afternoon park drives at Yala National Park

Day 11

Overnight at Cinnamon Wild, Yala

Jungle Chalets - Breakfast and Dinner

Jungle Chalets - Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12

After breakfast, proceed to Galle (approximately 2 ½ hour drive)

Check in to your hotel in Galle and relax

Overnight at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle -3 Nights

Day 13/14 Days at leisure for independent activities

Overnight at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle

Luxury Sea View – Breakfast Only

Day 15

Transfer from Hotel to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight (approximately 2 ½ hour drive).

(We recommend you to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to the departure flight

***End of Tour***

Luxury Sea View – Breakfast Only

GLOSSARY

 Sri Lanka

 BB = Bed and breakfast

 HB = Room + Breakfast + dinner

 FB = Full Board basis (please check itinerary for specific includes and excludes per property)

 AI = Inclusive of all meals, drinks, and activities (please check itinerary for specific details per property)

ENTRY/VISA REQUIREMENTS

For travellers who have received the recommended (full/ complete) dose of the COVID-19 vaccination.

 As per the updated COVID-19 entry/visa policy in Sri Lanka, all visas must be applied online through the Immigration ETA portal (www.eta.gov.lk).

 Guests should carry the original vaccination certificate/ card with them (if the vaccination card details are not in English, should produce a translated certified copy).

 A valid passport, not less than 6 months, a confirmed return or onward air ticket and sufficient funds for the stay are other entry requirements to the country.

 Please note that the above details are subject to change when the government authorities revise their policies.

 Please click on the below links for more details on the new regulations

 Sri Lanka Travel | Hello Again

 Sri Lanka Tourism Safety Protocols

 SATELLITE PHONES AND DRONES ARE NOT ALLOWED IN SRI LANKA

Expect the extraordinary

Day 01 – Airport – Colombo

Arrive at Colombo’s Bandaranayake International Airport, Katunayake

Met on arrival and transferred to Colombo (approximately. 1 hour drive)

Colombo

Colombo is a bustling and vibrant city with a fascinating mix of 19th and 20th century colonial buildings and more recent modern architecture. Sri Lanka's former administrative capital has a 2,000 -year history as a port on an ancient East -West trade routes, mainly due to its large harbour and its strategic position. Ruled successively by the Portuguese and the Dutch since the early 16th century, Colombo was made the capital city of the country by the British in 1815. Today, Colombo is an inviting modern-day metropolis with many vestiges of its colonial past, an admixture of Asian anarchy and modern chic. The newly built modern steel and glass high-rises get along with old local cafés and shops, while the serene and colourful temples, churches and mosques co-exist peacefully next to each other .

Arrive in Colombo and check in to The Kingsbury, Colombo

The Kingsbury, Colombo

Bejewelled as one of the finest Colombo hotels located in -between Galle Face Green, the World Trade Centre and the Dutch Hospital Precinct. With easy access for your shopping, entertainment and business needs, Kingsbury will ensure your stay is perfect and your experiences are complete.

Day 02 - Colombo

Have your breakfast at Kingsbury and then take a tour of famous Geoffrey Bawa’s house and few of his designs in Colombo with an expert in architect.

Finding Bawa

The Legacy of Geoffrey Bawa is immortal. To this date his masterpieces amaze the world and inspire thousands of young aspiring architects. Embedded in his work are snippets of clues that gives you a hint of his character, his inspiration and what kept his spark alive. Understand the legend, appreciate the art and inspire your senses on our quest to find Bawa. During the tour, your host will cover Number 11, De Seram House, the Gangaramaya Temple and the famous Gallery Café.

We suggest you to have your lunch at Galley Café, which was the office of Geoffrey Bawa back in the day. (Optional - lunch cost is not included)

After lunch go on a walking tour of Colombo with a host.

Colombo City Walk

Go on an exclusive Colombo City Walk tour and explore the Colombo Fort and Pettah area. The best way of experiencing the thriving old city of Pettah is on foot. The area includes The Dutch Reformed Church, a Museum of Dutch involvement located in the 17th century residence of a Dutch Governor, and a visit to the country’s largest wholesale bazaar where you are encouraged to negotiate prior to purchasing. After a short break for a soft drink in a local cafe, you will continue up to York Street past colonial buildings such as Cargills in the Fort Area. Finally reaching the recently restored Dutch H ospital (the oldest surviving building in Colombo).

Overnight at The Kingsbury, Colombo

Day 03 - Colombo – Habarana

Today, after breakfast proceed to Habarana (approximately. 3 ½ hour drive)

Sitting on a major road junction almost in the midpoint between Polonnaruwa and Dambulla (Close to Sigiriya), the large village of Habarana is a convenient base from which to visit any of the Cultural Triangle’s major sights.

Arrive in Habarana and check in to Cinnamon Lodge

Cinnamon Lodge

Cinnamon Lodge, is blessed with a tranquil and picturesque 27 -acre wooded location next to a beautiful lake. The large gardens are filled with gigantic tropical trees and waterways that provide home to a variety of birds, grey monkeys and rock squirrels. Its architectural design was inspired by the remains of Ritigala which was - a monastery that dates back to the 6th Century. Luxurious two-storey chalets with verandas and balconies complete a feeling of comfort and relaxation

Rest of the day at leisure

Spend three nights at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana in Superior Rooms and your stay is on Half Board Basis

Day 4 – Habarana

After an early breakfast, proceed to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes’ drive)

Arrive in Sigiriya and climb one of the island’s most spectacular sight, the 5th century rock fortress of Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Referred to as ‘The Lion Rock’ by locals, Sigiriya became the capital during the reign of King Kashyapa in the 5th century CE. After slaying his own father, King Dhatusena of Anuradhapura to take the throne and fearing a retaliatory attack from the rightful heir Moggallana who fled to neighbouring India, the new King constructed his royal palace on the summit of this 200-metre-high rock within a fortress f or his own protection. Walk through the meticulously landscaped Royal Gardens and ascend towards the summit where only ruins of the royal palace now remain. A visit to the fresco gallery with its ancient paintings of the King's maids in waiting and the Mirror Wall with ancient inscriptions that closely match the modern -day Sinhalese language In 495 CE, Moggallana returned from his exile, defeated the usurping King, and reinstated Anuradhapura as the capital. Sigiriya was then used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century prior to being mysteriously abandoned.

From Sigiriya, proceed to Polonnaruwa (approximately 1 ½ hours’ drive)

Arrive and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the second capitol city of Sri Lanka.

The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

The ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa are rather refreshing, better preserved and spread in a smaller area compared to Anuradhapura. Remains of the ruin city are compact enough to offer an impressive and delightful image of the medieval Sri Lanka f or its visitors within a short period of time. In its heyday, the city was encircled by strong walls and inhabited by hundreds of people. At the centre of the city is the royal palace complex. The monuments around the terrace north to the palace complex ar e some of the most important religious buildings. It includes one of best-preserved example of a shelter house (Vatadage) in the country. It regarded as one the finest and advance architectural designs in this era. This historical city consists of over 30

remarkable ancient buildings. The royal shrine (Gal Viharaya), is the most fascinating monument. It contains numerous works of arts which represent the Sinhalese Buddhist art at its finest, and their mastery of rock sculpture. There are statues which displays in reclining, sitting and standing postures of the Buddha. The reclining posture represents the ultimate break from the endless cycle of life and rebirth by an enlightened soul, before attaining release or nirvana.

Thereafter, have your lunch at a local restaurant in Polonnaruwa, which serves many varieties of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, cooked over stone and wood fires. It’s a family run restaurant with large mud huts for seating.

Late afternoon return to Cinnamon Lodge

Overnight stay at Cinnamon Lodge , Habarana

Day 5 - Habarana

After a leisurely breakfast, explore a remote village on bicycles and then engage in an authentic local cooking class followed by lunch in a typical local house

Colours and Sounds of Habarana

Colours and Sounds of Habarana is not just a bicycle ride through a village, it is an experience created for visitors to get hands on experience and understanding of the livelihood, culture and way of life in a typical village. During this experience, guests will get an opportunity to meet the real villagers and discover the country side and local craftsmen community. The experience includes a visit to a place where villagers make broomsticks with coconut fibre, interaction w ith a local brickmaker who make bricks using the traditional methods (here, guests will be invited to make a brick using the traditional tools and techniques), an opportunity to observe and learn the traditional method of extracting Ayurvedic Medicinal Oil and to meet a young woman in the village who teaches traditional dancing to the children. Here, the dancing teacher will invite the guests to try few steps of traditional dancing following her guidance. At the end of the cycling

tour, you will be taken to a typical Sri Lankan village house and teach you to make a quick meal in Sri Lankan village style using the traditional utensils.

Enjoy the traditional Sri Lanka n meal that you have cooked with the help of the village ladies.

After lunch, venture on a Jeep Safari at Minneriya or Hurulu National Park to look for wild Asian elephant with your guide, in a shared jeep.

Elephants in Minneriya /Kaudulla national park or at Hurulu Forrest

Each afternoon, many individual elephants come out of the forest in to the open to graze on the fresh green pasture by the water’s edge at Minneriya and Kaudulla national parks or at Hurulu forest reserve . You have excellent opportunities here to observe the social dynamics of the Asian Elephant as the large bulls in musth compete among each other and seek the females within the herd, while young calves with carefree abandon get up to their mischievous antics often to the displeasure of its alert mothers within the herd.

Your guide will be knowledgeable on where the elephan ts are encountered. Which is dependent on the monsoon. During the wet season, the herds disperse from Minneriya and Kaudulla, moving towards nearby Hurulu National Park and are scattered amongst the tall grasses and scrub jungle vegetation. In any of these parks, a variety of birds found in the dry zone including Indian Roller, Sri Lanka Jungle fowl, Indian Peafowl, Blue -tailed and Green Bee -eaters along with raptors such as Changeable Hawk Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Shikra may also be seen.

Return to Cinnamon Lodge and relax

Overnight stay at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana

Day 06 – Habarana – Kandy

After breakfast at Cinnamon Lodge, proceed to Kandy (approximately 2 hour drive)

En route, visit a tropical garden in Matale and go on a guided tour with the planter and the owner of the garden.

This garden is actually a particularly picturesque farm spread over 15 and a half acres towards the top of a mountain so that it boasts incredible views of the Aluvihare Mount ains. You are greeted by your host with farm sourced fresh juice and taken on a guided walk where you can learn about the garden’s collection of Sri Lankan produce, from pepper to papaya, cocoa to coconut and mango to mahogany.

After observing these cr ops growing, enjoy the fruits of the planters’ labour with a traditionally prepared rice and curry lunch

Thereafter, continue the journey to Kandy

Kandy:

Kandy was established as a city by King Wikramabahu III from the Kingdom of Gampola in the 13 th Century BCE and was given the name ‘Senkadagalapura Siriwardhana Maha Nuwara’ which was shortened to ‘Maha Nuwara’ which means ‘Great City’ or ‘Capital’. Today, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city after Colombo and is given a UNESCO World Heritage status as a sacred city due to the importance of the Temple of the sacred Tooth Relic. Kandy was the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom.

Arrive in Kandy and walk with local pilgrims to explore the most sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic:

Referred locally as the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the most revered site in the country. The Temple was built in the 16th century AD and is located adjacent to the Royal Palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy and overlooks the expanses of the Kandy Lake. Housing the sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha, the building has held a significant role in local politics since ancient times, with a belief that whoever holds the relic has the right to govern the country. The sacred tooth was smuggled in to Sri Lanka from India by a princess in the 4th century AD and was initially kept in Anuradhapura and then moved across the country over time before being housed in Kandy. This sacred temple attracts thousand s of white-clad pilgrims on a daily basis bearing lotus blossoms and frangipani for their offerings, which are known as pujas. Ensure that you dress appropriately, wearing clothes that cover your legs and shoulders and please do remove your shoes before entering the holy temple.

After the temple visit transfer to Jetwing Kandy Galley, your hotel for the next two nights stay in Kandy

Jetwing Kandy Gallery

Set away from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city of Kandy, Jetwing Kandy Gallery boasts luxury rooms and suites, complemented with modern luxuries and around-the-clock butler service. Opening up to spacious terraces or balconies, each room offers awe -inspiring views of the Mahaweli river and the hill country.

Spend two nights at Jetwing Kandy Gallery in a Deluxe Room and your stay is on Bed and Breakfast Basis

Day 07 - Kandy

Have your breakfast at Kandy Gallery and then procced to explore the city of Kandy in the famous local taxis known as Tuk Tuks

City of Kandy

Kandy is a very special place In terms of uniqueness where its scenery is the defining factor. Surround by hills, mountains, and rivers that served as natural barrier for invaders. The host of your Kandy city tour will meet you at the lake and lead you on a short stroll around the lake and up to the Garrison cemetery, a colonial vestige of history from the 1800s. Listed here are some of Kandy's most important historical figures, as well as a brief history of the British and their involvement in the city's construction. Then explore the streets of Kandy, passing the busy shops of Ali Mudukkuwa and the city’s impressive clock tower. Afterwards drop-in for a drink at a local café and end your Tuk Tuk ride at Kandy market surrounded by local life and an excitin g array of exotic fruits and vegetables.

Afterwards, visit Suriyakantha heritage home and go on a guided tour of the arts centre.

This “home-museum” – in the Central Province - now includes an Art Gallery designed for temporary exhibitions of art and photography Was established by Professor Jacques Soulie’s, a French born psychiatrist by profession who has contributed immensely to established Franco-Sri Lankan relations over the years. The architecture of the house is a characteristic example of “Dutc h Style”, a style deriving from the construction influences brought to the island by the Dutch (1658-1798). It was however reserved for the residences housing indigenous aristocratic lineages. The determination of Jacques Soulié and Rohan de Silva reinforced by the contribution received from experts and local craftsmen made possible a total and respectful rehabilitation of this traditional house.

At the end of the guided tour, have your lunch at the Arts Centre

Later in the afternoon visit a residence o f a professional dancer cum drummer and learn few traditional dance steps and drumming lessons.

Day 08 – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

Today after the breakfast at Jetwing Kandy Gallery, you will be transferred to the Kandy railway station from where you will board a train to go on a scenic train journey to Nuwara Eliya through the beautiful hill country of Sri Lanka (approximately.3 hour train ride).

This 3 hour train ride to Nuwara Eliya is a wonderful way to see the rolling countryside from your compartment, as you climb into the hills and tea plantations. Sit back and enjoy the view as the train wind its way gradually up through Tea Estates and gain altitude.

(Note: Tickets for the train journey can be purchased and confirmed only 14 days prior to the train journey. Also note that there is a possibility for last minute cancellation of the train journey due to various reasons. In such situations, guests will be transferred b y road to the next hotel )

Once your train reach Nanu Oya railway station, you will be picked up from the railway station and transferred to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya. (Approximately 30 minutes’ drive).

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a cosy town located 18 90 m (6200 ft) above sea level in the midst of the tea plantations of the central highlands. It was developed by British planters in the late 1800s. Since then, Nuwara Eliya became the source of familiar Ceylon tea, European fruits, vegetables, milk and cheese for the population of Colombo and other coastal towns. Nuwara Eliya is locally nicknamed “Little England” due to its cool weather and its history of tea pr oduction. It is one the most preferred destination for local tourists. The town is a fascinating place with many colonial and modern buildings. The Cargills department store, Post Office, the Golf Club, racecourse, Holy Trinity Church and St. Andrews hotel are some of the land mark buildings from the colonial era in the Nuwara Eliya town. It is a base for visits to Horton Plains National Park and Hakgala botanical gardens.

Arrive in Nuwara Eliya and check in to W15 Lake Gregory

W15 Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya

A luxury boutique bungalow in the hill country of Nuwara Eliya overlooking Victoria lake. offering a sublime setting to experience relaxation and privacy immersed in luxurious surroundings and gardens

Rest of the day at leisure

Spend two nights at Lake Gregory By W15 , Nuwara Eliya in Deluxe Rooms and your stay will be on Bed and Breakfast Basis

Day 09 – Nuwara Eliya

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and then procced to Hakgala (approximately 30 minutes’ drive).

Visit and explore the Botanical Gardens in Hakgala which is famous for many varieties of flora, fauna , endemic primates and highland species.

Hakgala Botanical Gardens

Go on a walking tour of the Hakgala botanical gardens, which was originally established for the purpose of cultivating Cinchona (quinine) in 1884. The name comes from a legend which says that Hanuman, god of the monkey, was sent to the Himalayas for a specific herb. He forgot what herb he wanted and decided to take a piece of the Himalayas back in his jaw, hoping that the herb will grow thereon. The gardens grow atop a mountain called Hakgala, which means "jaw rock’. In the present day, thousands of flora varieties, including various orchids and roses, are planted here. With your naturalist guide you can look for wildlife such as coated shaggy bear' monkey and abundant highland avian endemics such as rufous-bellied eagle, pied thrush, large -billed leaf warbler, velvet-fronted nuthatch, various flycatchers, woodpecker’s and the Sri Lanka wood pige on.

Thereafter, proceed to Nuwara Eliya and visit a working Tea estate and a factory.

Tea plantations and factory visit

Sri Lanka is one of the world's largest exporters of tea with a history dating back to 1867 when it was first introduced to the country. The hill country is abundant with many tea plantations and factories along its picturesque countryside, which provides the ideal climate for high grown tea. Estate tea pluckers can be seen deftly plucking tea which they fill into large baskets carried on their backs. On the way, you will pass estate trucks, each embossed with their estate names, taking the freshly collected tea leaves to the factories for processing. Visiting a tea plantation and a factory is a rewarding experience as you will get e the opportunity to learn the whole process of the tea production and to taste a freshly brewed cup of world -renowned Ceylon tea. Walkthrough the tea fields and observe the tea pickers at work, carefully picking the leaves that go into making Ceylon tea. Then walk into the factory where the all-important conversion to black tea happens. The machinery used in this factory is of very traditional British design, some as old as 100 years. The process is a very artisanal one, unchanged for a century. The tour ends with a tasting of different grades of this great brew.

Rest of the day at leisure

Overnight stay at W15 Lake Gregory, Nuwara Eliya

Day 10 – Nuwara Eliya – Yala

Today, after breakfast at W15 Lake Gregory, and then proceed on a long, but scenic drive through the hills, valleys and remote villages to Yala (approximately 4 ½ hours’ drive).

Arrive in Yala and check in to Cinnamon Wild, Yala

Cinnamon Wild, Yala

Formerly known as Yala Village, Cinnamon Wild has a rustic chic, contemporary ambience that blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, a commendable transformation achieved by Sri Lankan architect ChannaDaswatte. The central feature is a meandering swimming pool with an expansive deck that spreads throughout linking the public spaces housed in several magnificent pavilions. Enter through the reception and lounge pavilion designed with cinnamon wood furniture, gigantic cinnamon stick ceiling lamps in the shape of bird’s nests, and dramatic photographs of Yala’s elusive leopards. Accommodation here is in luxurious Jungle and Beach chalets immersed in nature. Rise at dawn and head to the jungles of Yala national park famous for leopard, elephants, sloth bear and over 150 species of birds. Once back at the game lodge, cool off with a relaxing swim. There is much to do here by day including bird w atching and nature treks. By nightfall, sink into a comfy sofa at the roof deck and star gaze with the calls of the wild all around.

Take a rest after the long drive and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Spend two nights at Cinnamon Wild, Yala in a J ungle Chalets and your stay is on Half Board basis

Day 11 - Yala

It’s time to explore the wild life in deep south of Sri Lanka. Go on an early morning and late afternoon wildlife viewing and birding in Yala National Park.

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is located in the south -east corner of Sri Lanka and is the most popular destination for wildlife viewing. Leopards are the star attraction at Yala and Block I is believed to have the highest concentration of these big cats in the world. Leopards however are elusive by nature and we recommend a minimum of three to four park drives to have the best opportunities for good encounters. Asian elephant, sloth bear, jackal, sambar, spotted deer, buffalo, wild boar and the grey langur are among the other larger mammals that may be seen.

During the dry season which spans from June to September, large concentrations of mugger crocodiles can be seen in the dwindling waterholes. Yala is also an excellent birding destination with clo se to 300 avian species recorded; Indian peafowl and Sri Lanka jungle fowl, changeable hawk eagle, painted stork, malabar-pied hornbills, chestnut, green and blue-tailed bee-eaters are among the species seen regularly in Yala. The varied landscapes from la goons, beaches to rocky outcrops immersed among the scrub jungle are also a treat to the eye as you search out the park's wildlife.

Day 12 – Yala - Galle

Have your breakfast at Cinnamon Wild and then drive from Yala to Galle (approximately 2 ½ hour drive)

Galle

The historic garrison town of Galle also known as “Point de Galle” is the capital of the Southern region. The city, 120 km (74 mi) southeast of Colombo, has good road and rail conn ections. Galle was a key harbour city for centuries, hence its value to successive colonial superpowers. Galle is home to the famous 17th century Dutch Fort which houses many beautiful structures of colonial architecture behind its walls, as well as an absorbing collection of quirky shops and restaurants. The Galle Fort Mosque, the Lighthouse, the Anglican and Dutch-reformed Churches and the Maritime Museum are some of the must-see sites of the region. Galle is also home to the Galle International Stadium, which is considered to be one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world.

Arrive in Galle and check in to Jetwing Lighthouse

Jetwing Lighthouse

Jetwing Lighthouse is the inspired creation of the late Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's iconic architect, who was responsible for linking the island’s ancient architecture with modern minimalism. Located on a rocky headland overlooking the Indian Ocean and spread over seven acres of land, this elegant hotel conveys an immediate sense of Galle’s hist ory. The Portuguese landing at Galle is re -enacted in brass and bronze on the impressive main staircase and an ambitious batik of ancient coats of arms fills the ceiling of the restful main bar. The hotel design demonstrates Bawa’s skill at integrating architecture and landscape. Smart terraces sweep down to a small sandy bay, where a natural reef sometimes allows relatively safe swimming. Large swimming pools and sun decks have clear views of the ocean. Accommodation is in 85 luxurious rooms and suites of which 20 are set in the Spa Wing which was added in 2013. Jetwing Lighthouse is owned by the Jetwing group – a premier travel and leisure company owning several luxurious hotel properties in the country

Once you settle down, spend the rest of the day at leisure or take a walk to explore the hotel and the surrounding areas on your own.

Spend three nights at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle in a Luxury Sea View Room and your stay is on Bed and Breakfast Basis

Day 13/14 - Galle

Days at leisure for independent activities.

Overnight at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle

Day 15 – Galle - Departure

Transfer from Hotel to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight (approximately 2 hour drive). (We recommend you to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to the departure flight

Journey overview

RATES –BASED ON 2 GUESTS TRAVELLING TOGETHER 14 NIGHTS 15 DAYS

What’s included: -

 Accommodation at the Hotels and as per the meal plans mentioned above.

 All transport services using 01 Air -conditioned Car based on options provided.

 All sightseeing and related entrance charges as mentioned in the itinerary.

 We will be providing an English -speaking chauffeur guide throughout the tour

 Bottle water during sightseeing tours and long drives.

 All presently applicable government taxes.

What’s not included:

 Sri Lankan Visa

 Lunch and Dinner unless stated otherwise

 Beverages, unless stated otherwise

 Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls etc.

 Any hotel early check ins or late check outs unless stated otherwise.

 Any Insurance

 International and domestic airfare unless stated otherwise.

 Tips to guides, airport and hotel porters and restaurants. (Tipping is expected!)

 Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff.

 Any other item not explicitly mentioned under included price.

The Details are in the fine print

Errors and Omissions Excepted

andBeyond shall not be liable for any inadvertent delay in the issuing of an invoice or any supporting document related thereto (i.e. quotations, proposals, etc.), or any omission or error contained in such invoice or supporting document provided that such delays, errors or omissions be rectified by andBeyond as soon as reasonably possible after the discovery of the same.

Covid 19 andBeyond Disclaimer and Liability

When travelling with andBeyond your safety is of paramount importance to us. We have implemented various Covid -19 related safety measures, processes and procedures (“Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol”) at our lodges and camps to ensure we create an environment that is both safe and hygienic when you stay with us, which protocol was developed by taking guidance from guidelines and hygiene policies prescribed and published by the World Health Organisation, the South African National Department of Health and th e National Institute for Communicable Diseases of South Africa and all the relevant health authorities of the destinations we operate in. Should you wish to view our Infectiou s Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol, please request this information from any of sales or reservation team and we will share this information with you.

Your itinerary may include accommodation services at properties (i.e. accommodation at non andBeyond branded lodges and /or camps) and / or ancillary services such as transfers, tou rs, and activities that will not be provided by andBeyond but by independent third-party owners and / or operators that are not owned and / or managed by andBeyond (“Third Party Service Providers”). Whilst all Third-Party Service Providers of andBeyond hav e committed to implement similar processes

and procedures as to our Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol to try and protect guests making use of their services, andBeyond is not in a position to validate or dictate their health and safety protoc ols which will vary between Third Party Service Providers. As a result, we cannot confirm the standard to which Third Party Service Providers protocols adhere to and as such we cannot accept any form of liability (in the broadest terms) should you (or any member of your party) contract an infectious disease (including Covid -19) when using the services of a Third -Party Service Provider. The same will apply in respect of public areas (i.e. landmarks, public venues, sightseeing venues, etc.) which you may wish to visit whilst staying at either our lodges / camps or properties owned by Third Party Service Provider as neither andBeyond nor Third Party Service Providers have any control over health and safety protocols followed at public areas or any action(s) of a member of the public which may cause an infection of an infectious disease.

As with any protocol the measure of success in implementing a process or procedure under a protocol will be determined by the level of compliance and adherence to the relevant p rocesses and procedures prescribed by the relevant protocol. Whilst andBeyond will ensure full compliance by its management, employees and contractors with the Infectious Disease: Health and Safety Protocol, andBeyond cannot accept any liability in the event of a guest(s) contracting an infectious disease (including Covid 19) as a direct or indirect result of complying or adhering to andBeyond’s Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol.

 Prices are subject to change as per change in Government / Hotel / Airline policy without prior notice.

 Rates include only those items specified in your itinerary.

 Please note, the names of hotels mentioned in our proposal only indicate that our rates have been based on usage of these hotels. It is not to be construed that accommodation is confirmed at these hotels until and unless we convey the confirmations to you on receipt of your acceptance. However in the event of any of the above mentioned hotels not becoming available at the time of initiating the reservations, we shall book alternate accommodation at a similar or next best available hotel and shall pass on the difference of rates (supplement/reduction whatever applicable) to you.

 Hotel Check-In 1400 hrs, Check-out time 1200 hrs

 In case on any currency fluc tuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we reserve the right to adjust the tour price accordingly. The due increase or decrease will be communicated accordingly.

 Until such time as confirmation of services is received from andBeyond Asia this is a quotation only and is subject to availability as no reservations have been made.

 The rates quoted are subject to change without prior warning, should there be any increase in Fuel, Sales Tax or GST, third party services, or any other circumstances beyond our control in the regions featured in this quote/booking.

 All guests must take out comprehensive travel insurance covering them for personal effects, personal accident, medical and emergency travel expenses, cancellation and curtailment.

 In order to comply with international insurance requirements all airline tickets must clearly show the passenger’s title, surname, name and initial (as indicated in their passport). As this applies to both scheduled and charter flights we would be grateful if you could provide us with this information at the time of confirmation. Your internal flights have been organized by us. While we take the maximum care to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for you andBeyond Asia is not responsible for the fitness of the carriers or the safety standards of the carrier company.

 In order to comply with International Insurance requirements andBeyond Asia can only reserve seats, be it on a provisional or confirmed basis, on both domestic/scheduled or charter flights.

 Please note that airfares may increase between time of booking, time of payment and the ticket being issued. Any costs incurred due to amendments will not be borne by andBeyond South Asia.

 andBeyond Asia cannot be held responsible should airlines discontin ue flights on certain routings or change scheduled timetables, resulting in missed connections etc. Should an amendment in a routing or itinerary be necessary we will re-quote you accordingly

 Dietary Requirements: All dietary requirements can be catered for. When making your reservation, please advi se us of any specific dietary requirements that you may have and these will be communicated through to the respective establishment.

 Gratuities: Tipping is at your discretion. However management of the establis hment will be able to assist with guidelines.

 andBeyond Asia reserves the right to modify program itineraries, including arranged sightseeing, and substitute accommodations, including vessels and trains, at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond its control. Every effort will be made to op erate itineraries as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued.

 andBeyond Asia strongly recommends that the guests insure themselves against loss of deposit, cancellation charges, medical expenses and loss of personal possessions, and any other foreseeable loss or expense.

 Photography During Travel

A. andBeyond Asia reserves the right to take photographs or video during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them for promotional purposes during the program an d thereafter. By booking a program with andBeyond Asia, guests agree to allow their images to be used in such photographs. Guests who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify themselves to andBeyond representative at the beginning of their program.

 Guest Obligations:

1. Medical Conditions – the guest must notify andBeyond Asia of any pre-existing medical conditions that might reasonably be expected to affect the travel arrangements. The guest agrees and acknowledges that andBeyond Asia will not be liable for any loss or damage incurred by the guest as a result of any pre -existing medical condition or health issue of the Customer that may preclude, delay, affect or interfere with the travel arrangements.

2. Health Issues – It is the guest’s sole responsibility to

a) obtain any vaccinations or take any other health precautions applicable to the country of travel;

b) take all steps reasonably necessary (including, without limitation, the consultation of appropriate medical professionals) to identify whether they have any pre -existing medical conditions or health issues (whether known or unknown) that may preclude, delay, affect or interfere with the Travel Arrangements; and

c) notify andBeyond if the guest has any pre -existing medical conditions or health issues that may preclude, delay, affect or interfere with the Travel Arrangements.

PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICY

Booking made within 45 days of arrival

Booking made more than 45 days prior to arrival

Cancellation 60 days or more prior to arrival

Cancellation within 45 days of arrival.

100% payment at the time of booking (within 72 hours) nonrefundable

30% payment at the time of booking and balance 70%, 70 days prior to arrival

Applicable Administrative fee and bank charges will be charged. This will be advised in the event of c ancellation.

Retention of full deposit levied as cancellation charge.

andBeyond Asia reserves the right to cancel all services booked should full payment not be received 60 days prior to arrival date.

Should it be a last-minute booking, andBeyond Asia will allow for 3 days from time of confirmation until payment (100%) reaches us before andBeyond Asia will cancel any services booked. The amount is NON– REFUNDABLE.

Kindly note that payments may be processed wi th Visa and MasterCard credit cards. Payments may also be paid directly into andBeyond Asia account details.