|
Sri Lanka + Maldives
Twin Centre Holidays
 We are finding that more and more of our customers are choosing to visit Sri Lanka as part of a twin centre holiday with the Maldives.
Hotels in Sri Lanka are fantastic value for money, and the scenery and wildlife are unforgettable, while on the coast there are fine golden sandy beaches, even if they don't quite compare to the perfection of the Maldives!
3 Ways to See Sri Lanka
There are basically 3 ways of seeing Sri Lanka - which is best is very much dependent on what sort of holidays you like best:
OPTION 1 - Stay at a Beach Hotel
The advantages of this are that with a week on a Sri Lanka Beach and a week in the Maldives, you get a change of scenery for much less than the cost of two weeks in the Maldives. The disadvantage is that most of the sightseeing, including the elephant orphanage at Pinnawela is several hours away. If you stay at the Fortress, a luxury hotel in the South of Sri Lanka, then you are very close to the unmissable city of Galle, with its fort, a UNESCO world heritage site.
OPTION 2 - Stay where the sights are
If you base yourself in the Habarana area then you're close to Sigiriya Rock, Dambulla Caves, and the old capital of Polonnaruwa. There are lots of nature activities such as boat safaris and trips to see wildlife, but remember that this is far from the beach. Even better is staying in 2 or 3 different places in Sri Lanka - Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are the other two places I recommend - that way you cover all the best bits. And the best way to organise a sightseeing holiday is to hire a car and driver - we can book these for you in advance - the driver will be at your disposal to take you wherever you wish to visit. Far easier than trying to get taxis or hotel excursions.
OPTION 3 - Go on an organised tour
We have a sample 6 night tour shown further down the page. This is a typical escorted group tour that takes in all the main sights. The disadvantages are that you get less freedom on where you go (unlike with your own car and driver) but the advantages are that all the sightseeing is arranged for you, and you can just sit back and enjoy without having to worry about missing anything. As well as this tour, we also have longer tours, family tours and luxury tours staying in boutique hotels. Please call for details.
How to choose where to stay in Sri Lanka? - for option 2 above
Because the driving distances can be quite long, it is worthwhile planning what you might want to see before you go. There is an enormous amount to see and do in the interior - such as wildlife (especially elephants!) and culture, plus the most spectacular scenery. Other attractions involve the Dambulla caves and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Option 1 - Habarana
One of the most popular options is to base yourself near Habarana, and from there take day trips to the surrounding area. There are two fantastic and atmospheric hotels in spectacular settings - the Heritance Kandalama and Cinnamon Lodge - both surrounded by amazing scenery, and both are well located so that you are in relatively easy distance from the major sights as well as being able to take elephant safaris and cycle trails. You can book excursions with the hotels, but don't forget that it is relatively cheap to hire a car and driver for the day which gives you maximum flexibility. A typical holiday would be say 5-7 nights at Dambulla and a week or so in the Maldives.
Option 2 - Habarana + Kandy + Nuwara Eliya
While Habarana is close to many sights, Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. As well as being close to the elephant orphanage, there is also the temple of the tooth and the botanical gardens. Plus there is a lovely lake which makes for a great drive around.
The scenery around Nuwara Eliya is very different from the places you will see near Habarana, but really it is just too far to get to in a day trip from Habarana. Here you will see rolling hills, tea plantations and waterfalls, and again there are a couple of wonderful hotels - the unique Tea Factory and the more personal Tea Trails. Again you can take excursions from both hotels. If you wanted to see this part of Sri Lanka then a typical itinerary is say 4 nights in Dambulla, 2 nights in Kandy, 2 nights in Nuwara Eliya and then 6 nights or so in the Maldives.
One thing to note is that we often need to add in a night near Colombo when you arrive in Sri Lanka, and also one night at the end of your stay. This is because of flight times and the length of transfers, however there is a great place to stay - the Mount Lavinia - a old colonial hotel by the sea, and indeed many people choose to extend their stay here.
Where to relax on the beach?
A few days or a week in The Maldives makes the perfect end to your stay in Sri Lanka, and to be honest nowhere quite compares in terms of the crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. However don't rule out a beach stay in Sri Lanka. For one thing, it will be much cheaper, however there are some fabulous new hotels that are very affordable. One in particular is The Fortress near Galle, a small boutique hotel with wonderful food and a very friendly atmosphere.
Beaches in Sri Lanka are golden - they span from Galle in the very South to Negombo which is North of Colombo. Again distances are quite long - it takes 4-5 hours to get to Galle from Colombo, whereas Negombo is much closer. If this is important to you the I would recommend The Beach, again a small boutique hotel but you do need to book early.
Map of Sri Lanka
How Much Does it Cost?
For a typical 2 weeks holiday expect to pay anywhere between £1500 and £2500 per person, although of course if you are staying in luxury hotels then it may well be significantly more than this. Please call us on 01462 677 111 and we will be happy to work out an estimate for you.
An Organised Tour
This is a wonderful tour because not only does it take in the best bits of Sri Lanka, but also because you stay in some wonderful hotels such as the famous Tea Factory and the beautifully located Kandalama hotel.
It is based on a group tour in an air-conditioned vehicle, however you can do a very similar itinerary with your own car + driver - please call us for the supplement.
Colombo (1 night)
Monday Overnight flight to Colombo with Sri Lankan Airlines - the flight departs on a Monday evening from Heathrow. The tour begins in Sri Lanka on Tuesday with your first night at the beach hotel of Mount Lavinia. If you wish to have one or two extra nights at Mount Lavinia before the tour, and depart the UK earlier, then that's OK - please let us know.
Tuesday on arrival in Sri Lanka transfer to the colonial Mount Lavinia Hotel by the beach. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy your surroundings - there is a good outdoor pool with a bar if you want to relax.Accommodation 1 night at Mount Lavinia, Colombo Coast Meals Breakfast
Your Hotel
Mount Lavinia is set in a wonderful location right on a sandy beach, and has and old colonial charm about it. There is a choice of bars and restaurants, and a charming coffee shop which opens out on to the swimming pool and terrace.
Habarana (2 nights)
Wednesday Morning start for the popular Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. After lunch continue on to Habarana for two nights.
Thursday In the morning there is optional sightseeing available at extra cost to Polonnaruwa the 12th Century Sinhalese capital. Later, visit the staggering rock fortress of Sigiriya. A climb to the top will reveal perfectly preserved frescoes and a spectacular view. The gallery of frescoes half way up is a definite highlight.Accommodation 2 nights at Chaaya Village (4*) Meals Breakfast on both days plus lunch and dinner on Wednesday
Your Hotel
Chaaya Village Habarana - a little over 100 cosy cottages set around a stunning lake. There is a large open restaurant with a view of the pool, garden and lake.
In the evening, there is an open lounge bar overlooking the pool, while the coffee shop serves hot drinks and snacks.
Kandy (2 nights)
Friday Drive to Kandy for two nights visiting the magnificent Dambulla rock caves, a spice plantation and batik workshop en route. This afternoon visit the famous Temple of the Tooth. Enjoy an evening visit to see a Kandyan dancing and culture show.
Saturday A full day to marvel at Kandy’s sightseeing. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens ablaze with colourful exotic plants. This afternoon enjoy a tour of the market square, a gem showroom and Upper Lake Drive.Accommodation 2 nights at Chaaya Citadel (4*) Meals Breakfast and dinner on both days
Your Hotel
Chaaya Citadel, Kandy - a wonderful position on the banks of the Mahaweli River. Sip a drink in the pool bar as you watch the world go by on the other side.
The bedrooms are very smartly designed and overlook the river. Each has a sitting area with a built-in couch and coffee table.
Nuwara Eliya (1 night)
Sunday Leave Kandy for your drive toward the hill country, with a stop en route to visit a tea plantation and factory. Then travel on to Nuwara Eliya, most celebrated of the hill stations set in a stunning mountain valley some 6,000 feet above sea level. Enjoy afternoon sightseeing of Nuwara Eliya with spectacular views of the beautiful green hillsides, rushing waterfalls and tea plantations.Accommodation 1 night at the Tea Factory (4*) Meals Breakfast plus dinner
Your Hotel
Tea Factory - a unique hotel which has been restored from an old tea plantation factory with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Special features include the fine dining restaurant which is actually a restored train carriage, a spa which specialises in tea treatments, and a miniature tea factory.
Yala or Udawalawe National Park (1 night) - OPTIONAL
Monday Leave Kandy for either Yala or Udawalawe National Park and enjoy a wildlife safari. This is an optional day, and if you prefer you can go straight to the beach. If you go to Yala or Udawalawe, just move the rest of the itinerary back by a day. Accommodation 1 night at the Yala Village hotel or the Centuria in Udawalawe Meals breakfast
Sri Lanka Beach (4 nights or more)
Monday Travel to the beach hotel of your choice for 4 nights or more for a relaxing end to your tour. You will check out on the Friday if you stay for 4 nights.
The prices listed below are based on the Bentota Beach Hotel which is an excellent friendly 4-start hotel in a beautiful setting between the river and the ocean. However we would be happy to recommend alternatives - please ask for details. Accommodation 4 nights at Bentota Beach Hotel (OR hotel of your choice - please call us for advice) Meals Breakfast - please note that some beach hotels offer half board, full board or all-inclusive packages
Your Hotel
This is a superb 4* choice for an end of tour beach stay due to its location and the rather delicious food they serve. On the one side is Bentota River, and on the other is the Indian Ocean. Within walking distance is Bentota Village where you can shop and try the local restaurants.
Back on site are plenty of facilities such as a choice of restaurants, lounge bar, freshwater swimming pool, and Ayurveda centre, while it is also one of the few hotels to offer and all-inclusive option.
Travel back to UK or on to the Maldives
Friday Travel back to the UK, or on to the Maldives. Please note that you may need a night at the airport hotel before your onward flight depending on the schedules.
If you wish to extend your holiday in the Maldives then we have an extensive selection of islands to choose from, depending on your budget and whether you would prefer a small and exclusive resort or an island with more facilities and entertainment. Please ask for details and prices. Meals Breakfast
Hotels near Habarana
4* Heritance Kandalama (Kandalama)
 This hotel is in a very special location, right in the jungle overlooking Kandalama Valley and the lake. It is a great base for the best inland sights of Sri Lanka such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Caves (so is Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana and the Elephant Corridor, Sigiriya by the way). As well as the facilities such as an infinity pool, indoor and outdoor bars, lounge, Six Senses spa, there are numerous excursions and activities such as elephant rides, bike rides, bird watching, horse riding, and elephant safaris in the Minneriya National Park. With the views, the great food, the inquisitive monkeys that are all around, this is a truly wonderful place to stay.
4* Cinnamon Lodge (Habarana)
 This is a wonderful base in easy reach of Sigiriya and Dambulla, where you will stay in luxurious chalet style accommodation surrounded by nature reserves, birds and elephants. Nearby is a beautiful lake, and here it is possible to help wash an elephant, or have a birdwatchers breakfast. Elephant safaris are available, plus picnic excursions, wine tasting, cultural sightseeing, boating, nature walks, and even hot air balloon rides (November - April). The hotel itself has a relaxing swimming pool, cycle trails, jogging track, and a tropical Ayurvedic spa. I would upgrade to the deluxe rooms which provide more space and comfort, and have recently been beautifully refurbished.
5* Elephant Corridor (Sigiriya)
 The Elephant Corridor is a unique, deluxe hotel in natural surroundings close to the rock fortress of Sigiriya and the Kandalama Hills in the centre of Sri Lanka. It is located in the path of elephants who can sometimes been seen from your room (best time is later in the afternoon), as they come to drink from the lake. There are only 21 suites, but are delightful, with 4-poster beds, DVD players, binoculars, plunge pool, day beds, and even an artists easel. During the day there are a number of nature trails to explore, plus horse riding, bike rides and bird watching. The hotel has a spa for Ayurvedic massages, fitness centre, steam and sauna rooms plus a swimming pool. Dining can be anywhere - in your suite, under a tree, or in the main and at any time.
Hotels by the Beach
This is a great way to get an extended holiday and yet keep the costs down. Hotels in Sri Lanka are fantastic value for money, so many customers choose a really nice hotel in Sri Lanka followed by a more affordable hotel in the Maldives.
5* The Fortress (beach)
 This is a small boutique hotel with a stunning design. The rooms are worth the trip in themselves, with massive beds, state of the art entertainment systems, open-plan bathrooms, and jacuzzi baths in the ocean rooms. But the most spectacular of all are the two ocean loft rooms with their own warmed, private pool! Food here is superb, and I rated this place no.1 for cuisine out of the many hotels I have visited in Sri Lanka. Nearby, you can see traditional fishermen on stilts or visit the excellent turtle sanctuary. Back at the hotel, there are swing chairs in the bar, a fibre-optic swimming pool, tea-tasting (which is very good!) and of course a spa.
5* the Beach (beach)
 This is the recommended deluxe hotel when you do not want a long transfer from the airport - it is located in the fishing village of Negombo with some shops, bars and restaurants within walking distance. Another nice thing is that it's a small and stylish hotel, with an open-air main restaurant, infinity pool and luxury spa. Many customers use this when combining Sri Lanka with the Maldives as you can quite easily visit the elephant sanctuary at Pinnawela from here during your holiday.
4*+ Taj Exotica (beach)
 This is a great hotel when you are looking for a good value rest after a tour of the island. As it is one of the larger hotels on the Sri Lanka coast with 160 rooms, there are plenty of things to do such as a couple of swimming pools, spa centre, an interactive grill, casual bar, disco and fitness centre. In the evening there are regular live shows and music. The standard rooms are fine, but I would go for an Orchid room - they are not that much more expensive, but are much newer and brighter and also include a FREE 30 minute spa treatment per person if you are staying for at least a week.
4* Bentota Beach (beach)
 This is our cheap and cheerful choice for a Sri Lanka beach stay due to its location and the rather delicious food they serve. On the one side is Bentota River, and on the other is the Indian Ocean, while within walking distance is the village of Bentota where you can visit a few shops and try the local restaurants. Back on site are plenty of facilities such as a choice of restaurants, lounge bar, freshwater swimming pool, and Ayurveda centre, while it is also one of the few hotels to offer and ALL-INCLUSIVE option.
Other hotels in Sri Lanka
4* Mahaweli Reach (Kandy)
 Mahaweli Reach is a great base when visiting Kandy - there are boat trips available on the Mahaweli River, plus excursions to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and further afield such as the Pinnawela elephant sanctuary and the Dambulla cave. As well as an Ayurvedic spa, there is a lovely swimming pool in front of the bar area.
4* The Tea Factory (Nuwara Eliya)
 A unique hotel which has been restored from an old tea plantation factory with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Special features include the fine dining restaurant which is actually a restored train carriage, a spa which specialises in tea treatments, a miniature tea factory on site with the full experience including a tea menu. As well as local excursions, there are great walks available in the hills.
5* Tea Trails (Nuwara Eliya)
 These are 4 unique bungalows set in the most glorious scenery - historic houses that have been superbly restored. When you stay here, all meals and drinks are complimentary, and each bungalow has up to 6 spacious and classically styled rooms. There is peace and quite, but also a number of nearby activities such as cycling or visiting nearby Nuwara Eliya. Please have a look at their website - the owners look after you well, and you can be assured of a wonderful time here.
Top things to do in Sri Lanka
1. Visit the Pinnawela Elephant Sanctuary near Kandy where every day elephants come down to the river to bathe.
2. Climb the rock fortress at Sigiriya - it takes about 1 hour, but the climb is well worth it for the incredible views from the top.
3. See the cave temples of Dambulla, but watch out for the monkeys!
4. Watch the silt fishermen of Galle, and visit the massive fort which dominates the city
5. Visit the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya - the scenery is quite spectacular, and the weather cooler here.
6. Yala National Park - one of the best places in the world to see leopards
The Weather in Sri Lanka
If you are completely flexible, then the best time to visit weather wise is from December to April, especially if you are staying on one of the beach resorts, and this is also the best time to visit the Maldives if you are considering a twin centre there. However, it is all very unpredictable. I last visited in October (supposed to be one of the two monsoon seasons) and experienced a couple of hours of rain all week. Towards late October the interior experiences a short monsoon season. There is more unpredictable weather on the coast around May and June.
Call us today on 01462 677 111 for prices and more details
Contact us!
Welcome!
Come and talk to us face to face about your holiday plans.
All the extra government taxes are INCLUDED in the prices quoted.
All Maldives holidays include Transfers. Unlike some travel companies, we do not charge a booking fee.
Payments by credit cards are charged at 2%, however there are no surcharges for payments by debit cards or Switch / Maestro.
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU HAVE FULL 10 YEAR BRITISH PASSPORTS WITH AT LEAST 6 MONTHS REMAINING
Please note that holidays at these offer prices are subject to availability the time of booking. Offers may be withdrawn without prior notice, and may be sold out before it is possible to update the website. However, all offers are correct and available at the time of writing. When they're gone, they're gone.
|
