Sri Lanka is an island-nation in the Indian Ocean separated from India by the Palk Strait. It is “almost” linked to India by a mostly underwater atoll called Adam’s Bridge. It is a very lush, tropical island sitting just north of the equator.

For over 2,000 years the island was ruled by a monarchy, which only ceased in 1972 with the appointment of a president. Sri Lanka’s population of around 22 million is multi ethnic with four main groups. Singhalese (mostly Buddhist) are the majority, followed by Tamils (mostly Hindu), Moors (with Arab origins) and Burghers – a mixed group of Portuguese and Dutch origin who are mainly Christians. About 30% of the island is covered by forest and about 10% of this is national park.

Generally speaking, it is a poor country but tourism is helping to change that. The quality of hotels and accommodation where we stay is extremely good. Apart from the tourist industry, Sri Lanka has a key source of income from tea exportations, spices, rubber textiles and petroleum refining. We’ll visit the temperate tea growing region with its rolling hills and tea plantations.

There are so many reasons to visit this country. There is much to see and do, yet it is a relatively small country, with each region wonderfully different. The indigenous and colonial history is fascinating. The food is fabulous. The scenery is spectacular. Plus, the abundance of wildlife, a drawcard for travellers, will take you by surprise. Visiting the national parks, you can spot sambar deer, Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo and hundreds of birds species.

It’s no wonder that a few years back, Lonely Planet rated this wonderful country as the “hottest travel destination on the planet”. Grab your camera and joins us.

INCLUDED

• All ground transportation as per itinerary
• Twin-share accommodation
• Transfers to and from hotels as per itinerary
• Meals as listed on the itinerary
• All tipping including drivers and guides
• Experienced English speaking local tour guide
• Escorted by an Australian host (subject to minimum numbers of 10 clients)

NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to the start and end of the tour
• Electronic travel authorisation or tourist visa
• Travel insurance
• Any meals not indicated on the itinerary
• Optional excursions
• Items of a personal nature, e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls
• Transfers to and from airports if not travelling on group flights

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Tour cost excludes international flights
• Tours depart with a minimum of 4 clients
• No more than 16 clients on any trip
• Tour extensions – before or after tour extensions can be arranged on your behalf
• International flights can be arranged by Blue Dot Travel
• To book and reserve your place on a tour, a deposit of $500 and a completed booking form is required

ITINERARY

TOUR MAP