Jaffna

Trincomalee

7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS

NORTH AND NORTH EAST SRI LANKA

Colombo

This tour ventures to the lesser explored northern Sri Lanka to uncover the secrets and rich heritage of Jaffna , the beautiful coastlines of the north-east and natural harbour of Trincomalee . In season , it is possible to incorporate a whale and dolphin-watching trip from Trincomalee .

Day 1 Arrive Colombo You will be met on arrival and driven by your Englishspeaking chauffeur guide who will accompany you throughout your tour of Sri Lanka . Transfer to the Uga Residence in Colombo for one night ( approximately 1 hour ). Spend the day at leisure , perhaps with some sightseeing and shopping in Colombo . The Pettah area , which is in the heart of Colombo , is a beehive of activity , with traders and hawkers selling some great bargains . It may also be possible to visit one of the world ’ s leading tea auctions , seasonal Buddhist and Hindu pageants or a cricket tournament .

Day 2 Colombo to Jaffna After breakfast , depart for Jaffna in the far north of Sri Lanka . It is possible to get to Jaffna by private flight or by road with an overnight stop . We will go through these options with you to discuss your preference at the time of booking . Jaffna has remained a mysterious destination . Very little was known about this city due to the 30 year civil war . Jaffna is etched with a rich heritage and history , with breath-taking scenery and monuments . Sightseeing will include Jaffna Fort , the library and Nilawari , a bottomless well where it is said that the Hindu God , Rama , shot an arrow to get water . Stay at the Jetwing Jaffna for three nights .

Day 3 Nagadeepa In the morning , take a public ferry trip with your guide to Nagadeepa . This is one of the most recognised landmarks in the area . It is believed that Lord Buddha had visited Nagadeepa to settle a dispute between two Naga Kings , Chulodara and Mahodara . After hearing Lord Buddha ’ s sermon , they offered him the throne . You will have the chance to visit a few Hindu Kovils in Nagadeepa , and in the afternoon head to the Keerimalai natural pond . Return to the Jetwing Jaffna for the evening .

Day 5 Jaffna to Trincomalee Today you will be taken to Trincomalee by road ( approximately 6.5 hours ). Later , enjoy some sightseeing in one of the world ’ s best natural deep water harbours that has attracted sea farers such as Marco Polo . Visit Trinco ’ s harbour , Swami Rock and the seven hot springs of Kanniya . Check in to Jungle Beach for three nights , 30 minutes from Trincomalee .

Day 6 Pigeon Island In the morning , enjoy a boat trip to Pigeon Island . This rocky islet got its name from the large number of blue rock pigeons that breed here . It is famous for its corals and colourful fish . Spend the afternoon at leisure on the beach before returning back to Jungle Beach .

Day 7 Trincomalee Early in the morning , embark on a whale and dolphinwatching trip by boat ( from May to October only ). Spend the afternoon at leisure on the beach .

Day 8 Trincomalee to Colombo for departure Depart Trincomalee by private flight or road with an overnight stop . We will discuss these options with you at the time of booking depending on your preference . Catch your flight to your onward destination from Colombo airport .

xxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Day 4 Delft and Jaffna Today you will be taken by public ferry to Delft , which was named by the Dutch after the town in the Netherlands . This island still has evidence of the Dutch and Portuguese presence in the area . Sightseeing on a trishaw will include the Dutch and Portuguese forts , Hindu temple , Delft hospital and the baobab tree . If you are lucky enough , you will also get the chance to see wild horses . In the afternoon , visit Casuarina Beach , which is one of the best beaches in the Jaffna area .

Pigeon Island

32 FOR EXPERT ADVICE AND TO MAKE A RESERVATION CALL OUR TRAVEL CONSULTANTS ON 01392 441224