Day /1
Fly to Colombo
Depart London Heathrow on an overnight flight to Colombo. You will be met on arrival, assisted through immigration and shown to the Silk Route arrival lounge for a warm welcome with flower garlands and refreshments.
Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Hatton, Colombo /Itinerary
Day /2
Negombo
Take a short 15 minute transfer to Negombo for an overnight stay at The Wallawwa. This lovingly restored manor house is a welcome retreat for the travel-weary; take high tea on the lawn, slip into the shaded pool hidden away in the tropical gardens and revive mind and body at the signature spa. (BB)
The WallawwaDay /3 - 5
Sigiriya
Travel through rural villages and coconut groves to Sigiriya for a 3 night stay at Water Garden Sigiriya. From here, venture to the top of Sigiriya Rock, passing remarkable frescoes and carvings, where the views of the surrounding landscape from its summit are well worth the effort – the best time of day is early morning when the forests, water gardens and shrines are shrouded in mist. Further experiences include exploring the ruins at Ritigala monastery, taking part in an alms giving ceremony with a local family to a group of forest dwelling monks and a trip to Minneriya National Park for the chance to spot deer, crocodiles and wild elephants. (BB)
Water Garden SigiriyaDay /6 - 7
Kandy
En route to The Kandy House for a 2 night stay, stop to visit Alu Vihare rock temple with its numerous cave shrines, followed by a cooking class and lunch at a private spice garden. Arriving in Kandy, the best way to explore is a panoramic city tour via tuk tuk and a guided walk through the markets. Here you can also learn about the origins of Kandyan dance with a visit to the home of a local dancing master; and about Sri Lankan botany at Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, the largest on the island. (BB)
The Kandy HouseDay /8 - 9
Hatton
Journey through the tea country on a scenic train ride to Hatton for a 2 night stay at Ceylon Tea Trails, passing through dramatic landscapes including lush tea plantations, majestic peaks and rushing waterfalls. A stay here must include a visit to a tea factory to learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea; and exploring the area further on guided hikes or on the complimentary mountain bikes. You can also receive a blessing at a Hindu Kovil. (AI)
Day /10
Colombo
Return to Colombo for an overnight stay at Residence by UGA. Spend time with resident host Mark Forbes as he takes you through the Colombo heritage area and Pettah districts with a focus on photography, architecture and history. Dinner at the Gallery Café or Ministry of Crab comes highly recommended. (BB)
Residence By Uga EscapesDay /11
Return to the UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to London Heathrow.