Indian Ocean Family Adventure

Arrival into Colombo International Airport - Negombo

Day 1: Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport - Negombo

Arrival into Colombo International Airport
Shared Excursion: Welcome to Sri Lanka! A representative will meet you at the arrival lounge of Colombo International Airport to welcome you to Sri Lanka and answer any questions you may have about your trip.


Transfer from Colombo International Airport to Negombo
Car Transfer: Transfer to Negombo, a popular beach destination on the West coast, close to the airport and the city of Colombo. Estimated travel time: 15 minutes


At leisure in Negombo
Excursion: Soak up the sun and relax on the golden sand of Negombo beach. Though it isn't as paradisaical as some of Sri Lanka's other beach locations, it is perfectly spacious and tranquil. Find a beach spot and head in the water for a refreshing dip. If you would prefer to do some exploring, the town has an interesting old quarter so you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the colonial streets and Dutch fort to get a sense of the history of the place - which was once one of the most important sources of cinnamon. The South of Negombo town gives a beautiful insight into the area's history and the daily routine of its people. The old streets evoke a historic charm and there is a cheerfulness from the colourful boats clustered together on the sand. For a glimpse of coastal Sri Lankan life, you may want to wander down to the Negombo fish market and witness the energetic buzz of a traditional fishing port; locals call it 'Lellama'. While you walk on the beach, you can watch fishermen untangle their fishing nets. Negombo is well known for its traditional fishing industry which relies on the network of Dutch canals connecting to Negombo lagoon. You can approach the market from Munnakare Bridge, which boasts wonderful views. In the evening, the beach road in Negombo comes alive as locals and tourists head to the many bars, pubs and seafood restaurants in this area. Why not join them for an ice cold beer (or two)?

At Leisure At Habarana

Day 2: Habarana

Transfer from Negombo to Habarana
Car Transfer: You will be driven from the coastal city of Negombo to the small city of Habarana in the North Central Province. Estimated travel time: 4 hours


At leisure at The Other Corner
Excursion: The Other Corner is a collection of chalets and treehouses tucked away in the jungle-clad outskirts of Habarana. You will have a chance to enjoy the facilities at your leisure and get to know this peaceful portion of Sri Lanka. Here, the jungle is your back garden. With your free time, you can opt to take a revitalising dip in the outdoor pool which is encircled by a vivid selection of flora and a popular spot for butterflies. For those wanting to relax, there are plenty of hammocks along the verandas so lounge with a good book or nod off to the soothing sounds of the forest. Alternatively, take a short walk on one of the Lodge's many hiking trails where you can weave among the trees and keep an eye out for animals and reptiles - the Stripe-necked Mongoose and the Star Tortoise are among the inhabitants here.

Meet A Family Of Monkeys - Primate Study Tour - Polonnaruwa bicycle tour

Day 3: Polonnaruwa - Habarana

Transfer from Habarana to Polonnaruwa
Car Transfer: You will be driven from the small touristic city of Habarana to the ancient ruined kingdom city of Polonnaruwa. Estimate travel time: 1 hour


Meet a family of monkeys - Primate study tour
Excursion: Like humans, monkeys live in families, tribes and communities; they interact and build relationships just like us. On this tour you will have the chance to observe these fascinating creatures as they communicate with each other, following them through the jungle and watching them in their natural habitat. There are three species of primate for you to observe here: the Toque Macaque, the Grey Langur and the Purple-Faced Langur. The expert guides will inform you about the challenges these primates face and how you may help their conservation efforts to preserve the species and their habitat. N. B - It is required that you need to be present on site (Polonnaruwa) by 7am for this experience and you can expect the transfer time to Polonnaruwa from Habarana, Sigiriya and Dambulla areas to take approx 1 to 1.5 hours which means an early start on this day (wake up by 5am). Duration: Approximately 2 hours from 7am to 9am Inclusions: Polonnaruwa cultural sight entrance fee


Polonnaruwa bicycle tour
Excursion: Over 800 years ago Polonnaruwa was a thriving religious and commercial centre, a vibrant hub from where kings ruled the central plains. Following the destruction of Anuradhapura towards the end of the 10th century, the City became Sri Lanka’s royal capital, of both the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms, and continued its glorious reign until the 13th century. The City itself is split: sitting side by side is Kaduruwela, the industrialised New Town, with the ancient royal city of Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. You can still get a sense of the grandeur of the City from the ancient remnants which provide a window into the past and give you an idea of how impressive the Capital was in its heyday. There are hundreds of ancient structures to explore - tombs, temples, shrines and stupas - exemplifying exquisite examples of ancient craftsmanship which means that it is a 'must-see' for anyone interested in architecture, history or ancient culture. The sacred Quadrangle is just one of the highlights here - a compact group of buildings and statues raised up on a platform - with every stone surface ornately decorated with beautiful carvings. One of most effective ways of viewing these wonders is from the seat of a bicycle so that you can hop on and off at your convenience. Duration: Approximately 3 hours. We recommend you take plenty of water, sun protection lotion and a hat.


Afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park
Excursion: With its low-canopy forests, scrubland, grasslands, and swamps, Minneriya National Park boasts an unusually wide range of habitat types. You will have the chance to explore this park on an afternoon jeep safari. Minneriya National Park is considered an important feeding ground for elephants in the vicinity of Matale, Polonnaruwa and Trincomalee and is famed for its 'Elephant Gathering' -a spectacular phenomenon during the long dry seasons when hundreds of elephants can be seen feeding on the grasslands bordering the tank while others cool off in its refreshing water. This annual event (considered to be the largest wild elephant gathering in South Asia) is a unique spectacle attracting hundreds of wildlife fanatics every year but elephants are present here year round so you will have good chances of seeing them even if your travel dates do not coincide with the Elephant Gathering. In addition to elephants, the Park is home to 24 species of mammals, including endemic monkeys, sloths and the less frequently seen Sri Lankan leopard. The Minneriya Reservoir is also a welcome refuge for large water birds such as the Lesser Adjutant, the Painted Stork and Spot-billed Pelican in addition to resident and migratory bird species. Essentially, a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers! Duration: Approximately 3 hours starting from 3pm

Habarana & Sigiriya culture trip by Jeep - Treasure hunt in the wild

Day 4: Habarana

Habarana & Sigiriya culture trip by Jeep
Excursion: Today, you’ll be accompanied by a villager and taken on an exhilarating off-road jeep ride to explore the unsullied cultural delights of Sigiriya and Habarana. Our local experts can assure that this experience is stepping into Sri Lankan culture at its most genuine. Trace your fingers along the stones of ancient temples, discover a traditional village nestled behind the rock fortress of Sigiriya and get stuck into the abundance of handiwork which takes place here, such as carpentry, brick making and blacksmithery. If you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the town, meander through through the nearby forest and sit by the lake where you may spot water buffaloes wallowing in the water. You are also welcome to explore the vegetable gardens and rolling rice fields, whetting your appetite for a lunchtime feast cooked using these local ingredients. This will be lovingly prepared for you at a nearby village house. Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on the season/date (e.g. local markets are only open on Wednesdays) . This trip starts at 8am.


Treasure hunt in the wild
Excursion: An ultimate adventure for your kids - let them join us in a true adventure while you enjoy your free time! Or come along! The children will go on an exciting treasure hunt through the jungle/ village path on an ATV/chally bike. They will learn about nature and village life on their quest to find hidden treasure making this trip both educational and fun. Habarana is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike – an ideal destination for families wanting to play together in the outdoors. We explore this through a multitude of activities: walking in the forest, swimming in the tanks (optional and not always possible due to weather), doing outdoor tasks, spotting wildlife and searching for treasure. It is definitely the most unique and the best child-friendly activity that we know of in this area - provided they are happy to get wet and muddy! A guaranteed great time for the whole family. Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours, starting at 3.30pm,.

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress - Kandy

Day 5: Sigiriya - Kandy

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Excursion: Today you will climb one of the most famous historical sites in Sri Lanka. Declared by locals as the Eighth wonder of world, Sigiriya Rock is both a magnificent fortress and a true bastion of Fifth Century regality. Steeped in ancient history, the rock plateau was made the royal residence of King Kasyapa in the second half of the Fifth Century and the remains of the Fortress’s extensive network exist to the present day. After the King’s death, the Royal Palace was used as a Buddhist monastery up until the 14th century when it was abandoned. The Palace is surrounded by vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains so you will have some time to explore these too; it’s definitely worth the extra walk. Marvel at its western wall which is almost entirely covered in painted frescoes depicting beautiful women - it is believed that these images were a celebration of the female form. Chiselled into the Northern side of the Rock is the main gateway - an enormous lion - which is where the site got the name 'Sigiriya', originating from Sihagri, meaning Lion rock. One the most striking features of Sigiriya is the Mirror Wall, a section of the Rock that was so thoroughly polished that the King could admire his reflection in the stone. We would encourage you to check yourself out in the mirror too but bear in mind that your reflection will not be so clear as the Wall has since been decorated with personal poems and inscriptions painted by visitors of the City - some of the oldest dating back to the Eighth century. Take a closer look at these inscriptions and unveil some fascinating stories. N. B - the walk to the summit of Sigiriya Rock requires a good level of physical fitness as it is a steep ascend and descend. This is better done in the early mornings and late afternoons (between 8 -10am or 4-6pm when the sunlight is not too harsh). Children under 8 years old and very elderly people may find this somewhat challenging. However, that being said, many small children and senior people do this climb slowly so you will be the best judge of your group's capabilities. We recommend bringing water and a hat to wear. Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on the pace of the walk.


Transfer from Habarana to Kandy
Car Transfer: Travel from the small town of Habarana through the hill country covered in bright green tea plantations and forest towards the beautiful city of Kandy. Estimated travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Explore rural Kandyan villages including a waterfall bath

Day 6: Kandy

Explore rural Kandyan villages including a waterfall bath
Excursion: This trek is ideal for those wanting to experience village life and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. Your day will start with a 2km walk to the local school where you can distribute pens and exercise books before participating with the children and their teacher in a short lesson. After spending some time at the School, a short 20-minute local bus ride (which is not crowded) will take you to the jungle-path that leads to the hidden waterfall - you will feel like Tarzan & Jane as you explore these secret jungle gems! If you are a competent swimmer, swimming in the natural pool is encouraged and very refreshing after a walk in the heat. The excursion will draw to an end with a tuk tuk ride or safari jeep journey back to your lodge. Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours depending on your pace. This trip starts around 8am. Please note, if you wish to have lunch at the waterfall, please inform your guide before leaving the lodge so they can arrange this.

Bird Watching In Kandy - Traditional Cooking Experience At A Village House

Day 7: Kandy

Bird watching at Polwaththa Eco Lodges
Excursion: If you are keen on bird watching or would like to see some of the endemic birdlife here, we would suggest a walk in Polwaththa Eco Lodge’s compound of 13 acres. This is an excellent bird watching location with regular sightings. It is common for people to have as many as 5 to 10 sightings of endemics within a few hour period in this area. Endemics mostly seen here are: the Sri Lankan (SL) Yellow-fronted Barbet, SL Hanging Parrot, SL Grey Hornbill, Layard's Parakeet, Greater Flameback, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Sri Lanka Chestnut-backed Owlet, Indian Scimitar Babbler and the Sri Lanka Yellow-eared Bulbul. For children, we recommend making pictures of the birds you see to show to your friends when you get back home. Your friends will be amazed by your knowledge and the variety of bird species you can see in Sri Lanka. Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of walking, starting at 6.30am (the most common sightings are between 6am-9am)


Traditional cooking experience at Polwatha Eco Lodges
Shared Excursion: Learn to cook local Sri Lankan curry in the traditional way by our very own villagers while being immersed in nature just outside Kandy. Nature and food - what could be better? This local cooking lesson offers participants the chance to learn recipes for rice, vegetable curry (beans, aubergine, beetroot, carrot, potato or jack fruit), chicken or fish curry (or for vegetarians, an additional vegetable curry), Dhal (lentils), Pol (coconut) Sambol and Papadam. If you are a family with children, this experience is suitable and fun for the whole family. It is not just a cooking experience but you will also learn about the spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine and be given local culinary secrets from people who have refined these recipes over several generations. Duration: Approximately 2 hours, starting at 10.30am

Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nanuoya (for Nuwara Eliya) - Afternoon at leisure in Nuwara Eliya

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya

Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nanuoya (for Nuwara Eliya)
Shared Excursion: This train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya is an unforgettable experience - right from the moment you step onto the charming platform at a station which would not have looked out of place on the set of the Railway Children, to the moment you arrive at the picturesque mountain town of Nuwara Eliya. You'll bear witness to the most spectacular highland countryside on the whole island as you pass by, have the chance to admire the sprawling green stretches of Ceylon tea fields before arriving at a destination abundant with emerald forests and distant misty mountains. This sought-after excursion is as much about the journey as it is about the destination so enjoy it. Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours. Various departure times and carriage classes are available - please discuss your requirements with us so that we can make the most suitable reservations.


Afternoon at leisure in Nuwara Eliya
Excursion: Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Nuwara Eliya. You can opt to explore Nuwara Eliya town, admire the many British era-built buildings in this area including the Nuwara Hill Club and Nuwara Eliya Post Office or opt to take High Tea at The Grand Hotel.

Visit Horton Plains National Park

Day 9: Horton Plains - Nuwara Eliya

Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Horton Plains National Park
Car Transfer: A windy drive through mountain forests will take you to grassy Horton Plains. Estimated travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes.


Visit Horton Plains National Park
Excursion: Horton Plains is a bio-diversity hot spot in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and the climate here differs from the rest of the Country. The Park is comprised of grasslands, cloud forest and vast plateaus with stunning views. It is a great place to go walking and to spend time in nature as there are many endemic species to be found here. The misty and rain-swept landscape is breath-taking and the cool, wet climate has created the growth of a unique but fragile ecosystem. Some of the most famous sites here include 'Little World's End', 'World's End' and Baker's Falls. It is better to visit the Park early to avoid the views being obscured heavily by mist - we recommend being at the gate by 6am. Duration: Most walks take about 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace. It is mostly flat terrain but certain areas are hilly so require some uphill trekking. We recommend taking sensible, closed-toe shoes and water. We do not recommend this walk for children below the age of eight, those with mobility issues and the elderly.


At leisure in Nuwara Eliya
Excursion: You have some free time to explore Nuwara Eliya or if you prefer, relax at the hotel. Nuwara Eliya town has been heavily influenced by the English and Scottish settlers who pioneered the tea trade here and as such feels like an English village. You can hire a bicycle to take a cycle around the town or visit Victoria Park - the main recreational park here. Of course, you are in tea-country so you can choose to visit one of the many tea estates here instead or indeed there are several other farms open to the public. If you would prefer something more nature-focussed, St Clair's falls are nearby or you could learn more about the flora at the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. If you'd rather seek out some peace and quiet, why not stroll around nearby Lake Gregory? This small lake is surrounded by footpaths and walkways- these are punctuated with picnic tables and the odd snack bar which makes it a great way to wile away the hours. There is also the option to hire a pedal boat and get out onto the lake if you want to take in the view from a different angle.

White Water Rafting In Kithulgala - colombo

Day 10: Kithulgala - Colombo

Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Kithulgala
Car Transfer: You will be transferred from the picturesque hill capital, Nuwara Eliya, to the small city of Kitulgala which is well known for its adventure activities including white water rafting, canyoning and waterfall abseiling. Estimated travel time: 2 hours and 30 minutes


White water rafting in Kithulgala
Excursion: Experience white water rafting on the picturesque Kelani River in a modern raft - an exhilarating experience covering five major rapids and four minor rapids. The River and its surroundings are enchanting and this is not an experience that you are likely to forget! This activity is for anyone above the age of 10 years - safety gear is provided and a comprehensive safety briefing will be given by our instructors beforehand. Duration: Approximately 2 hours including orientation and briefing (approx 1 hour on the water).


Tea experience and tasting in Nuwara Eliya
Shared Excursion: Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its rolling hills and picture book aesthetics but will forever be connected to the tea trade. Against the swathes of undulating greenery which extends to the horizon, you will often see local workers breaking up the canvas as they earn their living picking leaves for the tea. During this tea experience which is led by local women, they will teach you the tricks of their trade including how the tea leaves are plucked, manufactured and processed through the large factory. At the end of the tour, you get the chance to taste a cup of pure tea - delicious! Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours


Transfer from Kithulgala to Colombo
Car Transfer: Travel from Kitulgala, a small city well-known for its adventure activities, to the capital city of Colombo. Estimated travel time: 3 hours

At leisure in Colombo - Sunset tuk-tuk safari in Colombo

Day 11: Colombo

At leisure in Colombo
Excursion: You have some free time to spend in Colombo so you can choose to relax at the hotel or visit some of the city sights including the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Independence Square or Viharamahadevi Park. For those who would prefer to do some retail therapy, we would recommend the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct or join a local food tour to try some street food.


Sunset tuk-tuk safari in Colombo
Excursion: Come and join us to feel the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in old Colombo town as it rolls into sunset on your very own tuk-tuk. Cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian Ocean and enjoy the chaos as the City comes alive. An informative guide takes you to visit significant highlights of Colombo such as Gangaramaya Temple, Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil (Hindu Temple), Jami-UI-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque), Pettah Market, Independence Square, Dutch hospital and the ocean-facing promenade of Galle Face Green. At the Galle Face Green, you will stop to sample some of the Island's best street food. (N.B. Food you order is not included in the price and will be paid locally). Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours, starting from 3pm.

International Flight From Colombo To Maldives - Local Island Walk And Traditional Hedika Experience

Day 12: Baa Atoll

Transfer from Colombo to Colombo International Airport
Car Transfer: You will be transferred from Colombo to the International Airport with plenty of time to make your flight. Estimated travel time: 1 hour


International flight from Colombo to Male (Maldives)
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: After checking in at Colombo airport, you will board your flight to the Maldives. You will fly West across the Indian Ocean, enjoying wonderful views if it is a clear day, before touching down in Male Airport. N.B. If you would prefer for us to arrange this flight for you then please let us know and we can do so. Estimated flight time: 1 hour


Domestic flight from Male International Airport to Dharavandhoo Airport
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: Our representative will assist you to get on board the domestic flight to Baa Atoll. This is approx 20 minutes flight. N. B - Domestic flight transfers will be as closely aligned as possible with your international flight arrival/departure timing. Check in times and safety procedures apply as per your International flight check in. Any excess luggage over 20 kg per passenger will be charged at US$1.00 per kg, which can be paid in cash or by credit card direct to the airline carrier at the domestic terminal. Excess luggage may be subject to delay. Hand luggage allowance is 5 kg per person. Please note that if the flight is full you may be requested to step on the luggage scales in order that both passenger and luggage weight is evenly distributed throughout the aircraft. Transfer rates are subject to increase if fuel surcharge increase. Baggage allowance is not applicable for infants.


Speedboat transfer from Dharavandhoo to Maalhos Island
Shared Boat Transfer: You will be greeted by our representative at Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll. A member of the guesthouse team will assist you to transfer by speedboat to the island of Maalhos - less than 10 minutes away.


Local island walk and traditional Hedika experience
Excursion: As the afternoon cools down, you will be accompanied by your guide as you explore Maalhos. This is a great opportunity to learn about the local way of life on the Island and the tour includes a visit to the Mosque. You will also stop by a local cafe to sample traditional 'Hedika' - Maldivian savoury and sweet short eats served with black tea. Duration: 1.5 hours which starts around 4pm.

At leisure in Maalhos Local Island

Day 13: Baa Atoll

At leisure in Maalhos Local Island
Excursion: Today you will have time to spend at your leisure - you can choose to relax on the tourist Bikini Beach, snorkel the house reef or explore the island to interact with friendly islanders. Your accommodation can assist you with booking excursions for diving, snorkelling, watersports etc. Baa Atoll, being one of the most unique Atolls in the world, is declared as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home of the Hanifaru Marine Sanctuary. The Atoll is known for the rare biodiversity of its coral reefs, birds and marine life. A particular attraction of this atoll is the Manta rays which can usually be seen in huge numbers from May to September.

Speedboat transfer to Dharavandoo Island and Dhoni (slow boat) transfer to Reethi Beach Resort - Day 1 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll

Day 14: Baa Atoll

Speedboat transfer to Dharavandoo Island and Dhoni (slow boat) transfer to Reethi Beach Resort
Shared Boat Transfer: You will be assisted to take the speedboat transfer to Dharavandhoo Island and from there to Reethi Beach Resort in the Baa Atoll. This speedboat ride is 10 minutes followed by a 35 minutes slow boat ride, which is quite an experience in itself.


Day 1 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll
Excursion: You can enjoy some leisure time today in this island paradise. If you are not sunbathing or relaxing by the beach, there are plenty of interesting activities available at the Resort. These include a variety of watersports such as windsurfing, kite-surfing, water skiing, wake baording, kayaking or traditional Dhoni sailing (Maldivian sailboat).

Day 2 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll

Day 15: Baa Atoll

Day 2 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll
Excursion: Hopefully you managed to get out on the water already so why not enjoy the land-based activities that the Resort has to offer. Make your way to the sports complex where you can take part in a game of tennis, squash or badminton.

Day 3 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll

Day 16: Baa Atoll

Day 3 At leisure on Fonimagoodhoo Island in Baa Atoll
Excursion: We expect by now that the Resort is feeling like a second home albeit in a tropical paradise. The Resort offers and can arrange excursions so why not take advantage of some of the experiences on offer? For example. you can have dinner at a neighbouring island or spend time exploring the culture of the Baa Atoll. For those who just want to unwind, make a reservation at the Wellness Center which boasts a beachfront spa.

Domestic Flight From Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport To Male International Airport - See You Soon! Have A Safe Flight Back Home From The Maldives

Day 17: Malé Atoll

Speed boat transfer from Fonimagoodhoo Island to Dharavandhoo Island
Shared Boat Transfer: You will be assisted to take the speed boat transfer from Fonimagoodhoo to Dharavandhoo Island. Estimated travel time: 15 minutes ride


Domestic flight from Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport to Male International Airport
Shared Scheduled flight Transfer: A 20 minute shared flight from Dharavandhoo Island to Male International Airport. N. B - Domestic flight transfers will be as closely aligned as possible with your international flight arrival/departure timing. Check in times and safety procedures apply as per your International flight check in. Any excess luggage over 20 kg per passenger will be charged at US$1.00 per kg, which can be paid in cash or by credit card direct to the airline carrier at the domestic terminal. Excess luggage may be subject to delay. Hand luggage allowance is 5 kg per person. Please note that if the flight is full you may be requested to step on the luggage scales in order that both passenger and luggage weight is evenly distributed throughout the aircraft. Transfer rates are subject to increase if fuel surcharge increase. Baggage allowance is not applicable for infants.


See you soon! Have a safe flight back home from the Maldives
Excursion: You have just finished your Maldvies Island life experience! We hope you had a wonderful trip and wish you a safe journey home.