What to expect
Our iconic two country journey commences in emerald green Kerala exploring the historic fort town of Kochi, followed by leisurely days on the eastern shores of Lake Vembanad enjoying a remarkable day meandering through tranquil backwaters on an converted rice boat. Continue to Sri Lanka, the tear drop island to explore bustling Colombo, journey to the cultural triangle with its ancient cities, monuments and Buddhist stupas followed by a tea adventure on a working tea estate in the mist shrouded hill country.
Your Journey Begins
Arrive at Cochin International Airport and meet your Wildlife Safari representative for your private transfer to your boutique hotel located on the edge of the bustling harbour.
Overnight – Brunton Boatyard
Over two days explore the town on a guided walk visiting St Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was first buried, the Santa Cruz cathedral with its pastel coloured interior and the unique cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. Continue to the Jewish Synagogue and wander the spice markets and numerous antique shops. Spend the afternoon on a cruise of the busy working harbour for a sunset view from your boat.
Overnight – Brunton Boatyard
Depart for Kumarakom, a cluster of islands on the eastern shores of Vembanad Lake, to your eco lodge sheltered in the estate of a coconut plantation. Only accessible by boat cruise the canal to your resort. During your stay you may experience a variety of optional activities from a guided village walk, cruise the lake at sunset, visit the bird sanctuary, spend time in the Ayurvedic centre or simply sit by the lake and watch the passing scenery.
Overnights – Coconut Lagoon
Up early and travel to Alleppey. Board a converted rice boat for a private cruise along the languid backwaters lined with towering coconut palms, groves of mango, papaya and jackfruit and lush green paddy fields. A backwaters cruise is a quintessential Kerala experience as you drift past villages observing daily life. Travel by private vehicle to Cochin International Airport for your International flight to Sri Lanka. On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport a Wildlife Safari representative will meet you and escort you by private vehicle to your boutique hotel.
Overnight – Maniumpathy
Set off with your guide on sightseeing of Colombo. A vibrant city with modern buildings it also retains an old world charm with its historic Fort area of colonial buildings and the bustling Pettah bazaar crammed with shops and market stalls.
Overnight – Maniumpathy
Up early and depart Colombo with your driver heading north to the Cultural Triangle. Continue to the dry zone and your luxury eco lodge situated in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
Overnight – Jetwing Vil Uyana
Rise early in the cool of the morning to visit the Sigiriya rock fortress built by King Kashyapa during the 5th century AD. The dramatic Lion Rock rises up from the jungle floor and the climb to the top offers vast and spectacular views. Continue to explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s royal medieval capital.
Overnight – Jetwing Vil Uyana
Today with your driver travel north to Anuradhapura to your luxury village style resort spread across fields of organic gardens and acres of rice paddies.
Overnight – Uga Ulagalla
Today visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and architecture wonders of enormous dagobas, ancient pools and crumbling temples. As the first Buddhist capital the city is centred around the sacred Bodhi tree believed to be a shoot from the tree Buddha became enlightened.
Overnight – Uga Ulagalla
After breakfast depart for Dambulla, a UNESCO world heritage site, built by King Walagamba in the 1st century BC. Dambulla is the largest cave temple complex in Sri Lanka filled with colourful religious frescoes and carved statues. Continue along the spice route to Matale to visit a local spice farm. Travel south to the scenic town of Kandy to visit the island’s most revered Buddhist relic in the golden roofed Temple of the Tooth.
Overnight – The Kandy House
After breakfast drive to Peradeniya Railway Station to board the train on a scenic rail journey to the tea country. On arrival at Nanu Oya Railway Station your chauffeur guide will be there to meet you and continue to a tea estate and your home away from home.
Overnight – Ceylon Tea Trails
The day begins with tea served in your room. Spend the day relaxing in the colourful English gardens or learn the history of tea with a dedicated tea expert and visit a tea factory or meander along various walking trails throughout the working estate.
Overnight – Ceylon Tea Trails
Leave the hill country heading for the west coast to your boutique manor hotel to relax poolside, enjoy your surroundings of lush tropical gardens or indulge in the Z Spa.
Overnight – The Wallawwa
Transfer by private vehicle to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward travel arrangements.
Our team of Destination Experts can easily add extra days to a private journey, add longer stays at a particular destination or a desired hotel. You could enjoy the delights of Galle and spend your days on a golden palm fringed beach with easy access to explore the cobbled stone laneways of Galle Fort.
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For over 5 decades, Wildlife Safari has been curating luxury safaris and tours for the discerning traveler. We would love to chat about your next adventure. Leave us your details below to get in touch about this journey.
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Wildlife Safari established the Perth, Australia office in 1987 offering a portfolio of destinations within Africa, the Indian Ocean and India.
