The Local Way - Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
The Local Way - Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
$1052
Tour Overview
Discover the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Sri Lanka with "The Local Way" tour. This immersive journey takes you from the vibrant coastal town of Negombo, known for its exciting diving spots and delectable seafood, to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, where you can explore the historic Wilpattu National Park. Marvel at the stunning frescoes in the Dambulla Cave Temple, and experience the serene beauty of Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Conclude your adventure in Colombo, a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and the expertise of an English-speaking driver-guide throughout your 6-night stay. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL TO SRI LANKA
Location: Negombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel J or similar 3*
Meet and assist on arrival at Airport by Aitken Spence Travels Representative
Transfer from Airport to Negombo
(19 Mins + traffic/ 8 km)
Located within a close range to Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo - the cinnamon hub of the Colonization of Dutch - offers some of the most exiting diving stretches in the country. With quite a pleasant beach and lagoon, watch how Negombo dishes out some of the best lobsters, prawns and crabs found in the country, right on to your table or simply grab your kiteboards for an enthralling fly over crashing waves.
Today Negombo also represents an ultimate nightlife featuring bars, disco bars and clubs. So, jazz up to the rhythm of the West, and be ready for a night of 'fest', because at Negombo everything is 'best'.
Overnight in Negombo
Day 2 : TRANSFER TO ANURADHAPURA
Location: Anuradhapura
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the Hotel
Visit the local fish market & Fish drying area
The Negombo Fish Market is interesting because it takes place right on the beach, fresh from fishing boats. Crowds of fishermen are seen untangling their fishing nets, playing with their kids, and stretching out miles of fish to dry in the sun on Negombo's shore.
Take a stroll around the market to witness how the local fishermen handle the process of fish drying by the sea.
Transfer from Negombo to Chilaw
Visit Munneshwaram Hindu Kovil
Munneswaram Hindu temple is an important regional Hindu temple complex in Sri Lanka. It has been in existence at least since 1000 CE, although myths surrounding the temple associate it with the popular Indian epic Ramayana, and its legendary hero-king Rama. The temple is one of the ancient Pancha Ishwarams dedicated to Shiva in the region
Transfer from Chilaw to Anuradhapura
Overnight in Anuradhapura
Day 3 : VISIT WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
Location: Anuradhapura
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
Visit Wilpattu National Park
This is the land haunted by big cats of the island paradise. Recording a vast number of Sri Lankan Leopards - smarter looking than its Indian cousin - Wilpattu National Park has been named due to 'Willus' (Natural Lakes) studded throughout the park.
Apart from big cats & precious flora, the park is well known for a healthy population of elephant, sloth bear, spotted deer, mongoose and water buffalo. Do not be surprised if the squeal of a helpless wild boar pierce through your ears, just observe closer and you might be presented with a fantastic hunt because it is all action that speaks at Wilpattu.
Evening visit to Anuradhapura ancient kingdom
Commanding a rich Sri Lankan heritage, Anuradhapura – one of the greatest and oldest civilization in the world starring 113 kings and spanning over 1300 years in its peak, vows of being the greatest city of ancient Sri Lanka following its reign as the first capital.
The sapphire of its crown is certainly the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred BO sapling extracted from the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Standing more than 220 years in its pride. Stroll through the sacred trails of the venerated city to adore the legacy that interweaves Ruwanweliseya.
The heritage, Supremacy and culture arguably makes Anuradhapura the strongest kingdom of Sri Lanka.
Overnight in Anuradhapura
Day 4 : TRANSFER TO DAMBULLA
Location: Dambulla
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Danawwa Resort or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
Transfer from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
The 5th century rock citadel of King Kasyapa and World Heritage Site - Sigiriya - does not only boasts of ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy but also acclaims to be one of the finest monuments of art & culture. Step through the gigantic 'Lion Paws' - overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below - to comprehend the absolute splendor that once dominated this rock fortress. Surrounded by ramparts & moats the Lion Rock - resembling the mythological 'City of Gods' - is coated by frescoes that relate to Gupta style paintings found in Ajanta caves of India.
Visit Hiriwadunna village excursion
The scenic village of Hiriwadunna with its unpaved gravel paths and humble village folk. Shaded on either side by dry zone shrub forest, the dusty gravel path and subsequently the red soil of the tank bund will lead the visitors to an indigo reservoir which sets a stunning contrast of colors. A line of cormorants flying in formation will eventually stop to rest on a cormorant tree and the butterflies and dragonflies found at the edge of the shrubs create a kaleidoscope of color that rivals the equally vibrant wild flowers.
As you walk further the sight of Sigiriya rock fortress appears in the vicinity against the silent and still waters of the reservoir which is rippled only by a lone fisherman mounted on his catamaran. Soon it’s already time to take a catamaran ride! Across the reservoir awaits a Chena farmer’s modest home; a setting that takes you back a few decades to enjoy a black Ceylonese tea brewed by the farmer’s wife. Experience the simple pleasures of village-life as you walk across the Chena cultivations and through the nearby woods, to board a bullock cart – yet another ancient mode of the humble villagers’ transportation.
Transfer to Dambulla
Overnight in Dambulla
Day 5 : TRANSFER TO KANDY
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Oak Ray Heritage or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel
Visit Dambulla Cave temple
In the city of Dambulla lies a hub which has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today, an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in magnificently constructed 5 cave temples flanking the golden temple of
Dambulla. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country's economic and cultural uplifting.
Visit Dambulla vegetable market
Dambulla vegetable market and experience how the village folk trade the home grown vegetables that’s distributed around the island. Even if you’re not looking to buy a truckload of bananas, this vast wholesale market south of the centre offers a fascinating look at the vast range of produce grown in Sri Lanka.
What you see being carted about with manic energy (be careful and stay out of everybody’s way) will be sold in Colombo tomorrow.
Transfer from Dambulla to Matale
Visit a Spice Garden
An agricultural zone in the Central Province, Matale seldom drops off the maps due to its remarkable contribution through flagship crops of the island extending from tea, rubber & vegetables to spices. Spearheading the Rebellion back in 1848, Matale today takes immense pride in its story woven around spices.
Stop by the side of a spice garden - into which you will be most welcome - and observe the therapeutic values of spices & processes over a refreshing cup of herbal tea! Or spend some time idling on the hardened streets if you mean a real town adventure filled with voices and colors.
Transfer from Matale to Kandy
Overnight l in Kandy
Day 6 : TRANSFER TO COLOMBO
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel
Explore Kandy City
Last ruled by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe - before it was brought under the British rule in 1815, Kandy - the World Heritage Site & last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings - crafts an array of culture, history and heritage in the minds of visitors across the globe. Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
A stroll across this small lakeside town - cradled among the misty hills - will feature the Kandy City Centre - bundled with latest and world class brands, bazaar, an arts & crafts centre, as well as a gem museum & lapidary.walk in color as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Fine tube your evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music & drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka.
Transfer to Colombo from Kandy
Evening City tour in Colombo
The throbbing metropolis, Colombo - located in the West - is not only the country's commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP flanking Colombo's fancy urban development effort. Drive along the clean streets edging the crystal white Race Course - horse racing hub in 1893 & World War II airstrip - furnished today with lavish clothing, food & tea boutiques.
Meanwhile, ride to Pettah & tune into the Floating Market - an offbeat shopping experience - or feel the buzz surrounding the upcoming inspiration, the Colombo Port City - an offshore city - featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track.
Proceed along Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards 'Arcade' facing a historic way post, the Independence Square. Every designer boutique, top-notch cuisine outlet and even the 'walk-over fish tank', have revamped this colonial masterpiece into one of the trendiest shopping and hangout zones in Colombo. Have a chilled beer at the Dutch Hospital while gazing through fancy windows showcasing best fashion, jewelry & handicraft brands.
Smell the scent of incense while listening to the chiming bells of Gangarama temple. Or, jazz up to Colombo's night life spiced by night lubs & casinos that borderline its bustle. If you're lucky, head into an exhibition at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) before swaying your head to an opera or play at Nelum Pokuna that should just drive your day into perfection!
Overnight in Colombo
Day 7 : DEPARTURE FROM SRI LANKA
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for departure
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with English-speaking driver-guide
ACCOMMODATION:
- 6 nights' accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Hotel J or similar 3*
Day 2-3 Anuradhapura:
Standard Hotel Category = Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3*
Day 4 Dambulla:
Standard Hotel Category = Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
Day 5 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Oak Ray Heritage or similar 4*
Day 6 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Fairway Colombo or similar 3*
MEALS:
- 6 Breakfasts
TRANSPORT:
- Arrival/ Departure transfers from and to Colombo Airport
- Shared transport throughout the tour
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Negombo Fish Market visit, Munneswaram Hindu Temple visit, Wilpattu National Park visit, Anuradhapura tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress visit, Hiriwadunna village excursion incuding catamaran ride, Dambulla Cave Temple and Dambulla vegetable market visit, Matale Spice Garden visit, Kandy city tour, Colombo city tour
OTHER:
- Meet & Greet on day 1
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme.
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Departure Airport Transfer
Departure airport transfer is not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for driver and guide are not included.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees for all sights and attractions are not included.
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Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, etc. are not included.
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Permits
Video camera and photography permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy; video camera permits at Elephant Orphanage are not included.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours and activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay. Clients arriving on early morning flights will have to wait until the last tour participant has arrived.
Please Note
- Optional excursions and additional services could be provided for which we will charge additionally.
- Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice
- Visits to wild life parks will be at client's own risk
- Safari vehicles (none air-conditioned) available are very basic with basic insurance cover (not comprehensive as in the case of vehicles used for tours)
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo:
- Standard Hotel Category: Hotel J or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category: Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category: Danawwa Resort or similar 3*
- Standard Hotel Category: Oak Ray Heritage or similar 4*
- Standard Hotel Category: Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo:
- Standard Hotel Category = Hotel J or similar 3*
Day 2-3 Anuradhapura:
- Standard Hotel Category = Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3*
Day 4 Dambulla:
- Standard Hotel Category = Fresco Water Villa or similar 3*
Day 5 Kandy:
- Standard Hotel Category = Oak Ray Heritage or similar 4*
Day 6 Colombo:
- Standard Hotel Category = Fairway Colombo or similar 3*
Mode of Transport
Travel in air-conditioned comfort with transportation provided as stated in the programme, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your tour.
Accommodation
Enjoy 6 nights' accommodation in comfortable 3-star and 4-star hotels, including Hotel J in Negombo, Miridiya Lake Resort in Anuradhapura, Danawwa Resort in Dambulla, Oak Ray Heritage in Kandy, and Grand Oriental Hotel in Colombo.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking driver-guide.
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What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 nights' accommodation in standard hotel categories: Hotel J or similar 3* in Negombo, Miridiya Lake Resort or similar 3* in Anuradhapura, Danawwa Resort or similar 3* in Dambulla, Oak Ray Heritage or similar 4* in Kandy, and Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3* in Colombo. ...more ...less
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 6 breakfasts.
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What kind of transportation will be provided during the tour?
Air-conditioned transportation as stated in the programme will be provided.
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Is there a meet and greet service upon arrival?
Yes, there is a meet and greet service on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees for all sights and attractions are not included in the tour price.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional tours and activities are available but are not included in the tour price.
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What should I wear when visiting temples and religious sites in Sri Lanka?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc., is not included in the tour package.
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What is the official check-in and check-out time at the hotels?
The official check-in time at all hotels is 12:00 PM, and the official check-out time is 11:00 AM.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Low Deposit
Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
The Local Way - Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
7 Days Starting and ending in Sri Lanka
Visiting: Negombo, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Kandy, Colombo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
79468
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
8 - 15
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat