Arrival at Sri Lanka’s international airport. Welcome by a representative of Ceylon Best Holidays. Transfer to Colombo. After lunch – city tour of Colombo.
Founded by Arab traders, fortified by the Portuguese, conquered by the Dutch, and developed into a powerful colonial capital by the British – Colombo combines historic colonial architecture with modern business districts.
Over 1 million people live here. Architectural highlights include: – a lighthouse in the middle of the business district, – the over 500-year-old Pettah Market, – ultra-modern skyscrapers next to magnificent colonial buildings.
After breakfast – drive to Sigiriya. On the way, visit the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawala.
Founded in 1975. Over 90 elephants live here – orphans, injured animals, or young animals that have lost their parents. The elephants receive care and “training” here before being handed over to zoos or used for work on the island.
The best time to visit: feeding and bathing. With a bit of luck, you can even see baby elephants being fed with a milk bottle.
Spectacular rock (180 m) with the legendary “Sky Fortress,” a UNESCO World Heritage site. To see: – ruins of the royal palace – royal water tank – the famous frescoes of the heavenly maidens – lion paws and rock inscriptions from the 8th century
One of the most significant landmarks in Sri Lanka.
UNESCO World Heritage site, the largest cave temple in the country. In five main caves, there are: – 153 Buddha statues – 3 royal statues – 4 statues of Hindu gods – over 2100 m² of wall paintings
2700-year-old burial sites were found in the surrounding area.
You will see how cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, and other spices grow. Explanation of their medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary uses.
After lunch – city tour of Kandy, visit the arts and crafts center and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha.
The last capital of the Sinhalese kings, today the cultural center of the country. The city is picturesquely situated by Kandy Lake and the Mahaweli River.
The most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka – the Tooth of Buddha – arrived on the island in 311 AD. The temple consists of intricately carved wooden elements, painted ceilings, and doors made of silver and ivory.
The famous Esala Perahera in August is one of the most magnificent processions in Asia.
One of the most beautiful gardens in Asia. To see: – over 750 species of indoor plants – 100 species of orchids – 175 species of palm trees – Avenue of memorial trees
Sri Lanka – known as Rathnadweepa (“Island of Gems”). Famous sapphires like “The Blue Belle” and the “Star of India” originate from here.
Popular highland resort at an altitude of 1884 m, with a mild climate, green hills, and colonial flair.
After breakfast – drive to Ella, stop at Ravana Waterfall.
Despite its low height (<10 m), one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island. Its name comes from the Ramayana epic.
After lunch – Jeep safari in Yala National Park.
Largest protected area in southeastern Sri Lanka (1259 km²). Home to: – Leopards – Elephants – Deer – Buffalo – Crocodiles – Monkeys – Peacocks, pelicans, herons
The best time for wildlife viewing is early in the morning and shortly before sunset.
UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest remaining colonial forts in Asia. Built in 1640 by the Dutch. Famous for Portuguese-Dutch architecture and historic merchant alleys.
Here, eggs are collected, protected, and the hatchlings are strengthened before being released into the ocean.
Continue to Colombo.
– Accommodation in a double room (half board) – Air-conditioned transfers – Russian-speaking tour guide – Entrance fees according to the program – Taxes
– Lunch – Early check-in / Late check-out – Personal expenses – Permits for photo/video recording – Tips