Honeymoon at the pearl of the Indian Ocean and in the Maldives.

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Colombo International Airport to Sigiriya (4 h drive)

  

  You are welcomed by your driver upon your arrival in Colombo. Here you are, arrived in tropical land. You take the road to the cultural triangle. On the way, discover the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka passing before your eyes, made up of rice fields, coconut plantations, and mountains. After settling into your hotel, you can rest from your long journey and enjoy the pool. You could end this day with a relaxing massage at the Athreya Ayurveda Ashram in Habarana! Sri Lanka is renowned for its Ayurvedic massages. Overnight in Sigiriya.

• day 2

  Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa, to Minneriya and Sigiriya (2h)

  

  The visit to Polonnaruwa, an ancient city that was the royal capital of Sri Lanka during the 11th and 12th centuries, covers about ten km². You can visit by bike or tuk-tuk the ruins of palaces, temples, but especially Kalu Gal Vihara, a set of 4 Buddha statues carved in granite. The archaeological museum is also worth a visit. Then, around 3:00 pm, set off for a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, renowned for its elephant population, which is close to 400. You can also see other wild animals: crocodiles, buffaloes, deer, monitor lizards, cormorants, pelicans, and a multitude of birds. The park is also interesting for its landscapes, between marshes, lakes, and mountains appearing on the horizon. Overnight in Sigiriya.

• day 3

  The Lion Rock of Sigiriya, in Dambulla, in Matale and in Kandy (2 h)

  

  We advise you to visit the Lion Rock of Sigiriya early in the morning to avoid the crowds, which overlooks the village from its 200 meters height. Your guide will show you the different parts of the site: from the gardens to the natural caves, from the frescoes of the Maidens to the ruins of King Kasyapa's palace at the top. This site owes its reputation to this megalomaniac king who built his residence there in the 10th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the most visited site in Sri Lanka. Or, if you prefer, you can climb Pidurangala Hill, right next to Lion Rock, which has archaeological significance. A walk in the heart of nature, which will allow you to enjoy a magnificent viewpoint once at the top, especially over the Sigiriya rock and the Minneriya park further away. At the top, you will see the ruins of a monastery, Buddha statues, caves, etc. A beautiful walk still little frequented and a very good moment to enjoy the sunrise! Your route passes through Dambulla, where you could visit the Golden Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Buddhist caves perched at the top of a hill. You can discover incredible mural paintings, Buddha statues, all scattered in 5 caves. Also enjoy the beautiful panorama of the surroundings. On the way down, you can stroll through the Dambulla wholesale market, the largest market in the country. On the way, you will have the opportunity to stop at Matale, to visit a spice garden. This visit is an opportunity to discover the virtues of the country's plants, fruits, and spices, and to learn more about their culinary uses and medicinal properties. You will see in particular: cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, clove, and also cocoa trees. Then, you continue your journey towards Kandy. Night in Kandy

• day 4

  Around Kandy

  

  Kandy is, due to its character and history, an essential stop. Former capital of the Sinhalese kings, you can discover the city center on foot, starting with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the very heart of the city is Kandy Lake (or Bogambara Lake), which attracts many walkers. You could then stroll through the vegetable market not far from the lake, which is very lively and sometimes crowded with touts, but is worth a visit for the diversity of products and the atmosphere. You can also stock up on souvenirs at Selyn, the only fair trade certified shop in Sri Lanka. There you will find plenty of lovely things made from organic cotton. Also go and discover the Batik artisans, or The Kandyan Arts & Crafts; you will find many wooden sculptures, clothes, jewelry, postcards, etc… We suggest later a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, which stretches over 60 ha along the Mahaweli River. Renowned for its rich collections of tropical and aromatic plants, the Peradeniya Garden is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world. Established in 1821 under British rule, this former royal park with 4,000 plant species covers an area of more than 60 hectares. It houses, among other things, a magnificent collection of orchids, including the Gramma To Thyllum Speciosum, the largest orchid in the world, as well as a splendid avenue of palm trees dating from 1950. At 5:00 pm, come and discover Sri Lankan culture by attending a performance of traditional Kandyan dances! Dating from the time of the Kandyan kings, these ritual and religious dances, with their splendid colorful costumes, are still an integral part of the island's cultural richness and are well worth seeing. Overnight in Kandy

• day 5

  Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella (4h)

  

  You are now on your way to Nuwara Eliya. On the way, stop to admire the Ramboda waterfalls, one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka. Arrival in Nuwara Eliya, the highest city in Sri Lanka, full of charm and British influences. It is renowned for being the country's vegetable garden. A former English colony, the city has a certain charm, quite original on the Asian continent. Many buildings indeed bear witness to a typically British architectural style, with the elegant post office as its masterpiece. In the city center, you will also find Victoria Park, named on the occasion of Queen Victoria's 60th year of reign. Board a train from Nanu Oya to Ella (seats subject to availability, about 2h30 by train). The most beautiful landscapes in Asia pass before your eyes, made up of endless tea plantations. Your driver will be waiting for you at the station, then you will continue on to your hotel in Ella, a small mountain village offering magnificent views over the valley below. Overnight in Ella.

• day 6

  Around Ella and tuk-tuk challenge in the tea plantations

  

  If you want to discover the region in a fun way, set off for a 4-hour tuk-tuk ride. Head towards the beautiful tea plantations, where you can meet the pickers and stroll through the fields. Your guide will inform you about the tea industry in Sri Lanka. Continue your ascent by tuk-tuk: you will take winding roads and pass through small villages. Stop to admire the view of the surrounding valleys and waterfalls. Go and meet the pickers in their village. Observe how the tea leaves are weighed and discover the daily workings of a plantation. Continue to the top of the mountain, to a breathtaking viewpoint. Then, head to Lipton's Seat, where the tea master liked to sit and contemplate his lands. Enjoy a good cup of tea in the small shop at the top. Then, you will visit the Dambatenne tea factory, an opportunity to learn more about the manufacturing process of this national beverage. Meet the pickers and watch a picking demonstration. Overnight in Ella.

• day 7

  Ella to Dondra, the Blow Hole and Mirissa (3H)

  

  This morning, you head towards the coast, considered one of the most beautiful on the island. You will discover hidden beauties along your route. A variety of excursions is possible in the surroundings, such as a whale watching cruise or discovering the beaches of Rekawa, where Sri Lanka's giant turtles come to lay their eggs. You could also visit the "Blow Hole" on the south coast, towards Tangalle. The spectacle is impressive, as this Blow Hole, a natural phenomenon, is caused when seawater rushes through a submerged cave and is projected upwards. Indeed, at a high but irregular frequency, you can see a huge jet of seawater shooting out from the rocks! You could simply lounge on the beach. Don't miss tasting fresh fish in the evening, served on the beach. Night in Mirissa.

• day 8

  Mirissa to Galle and Negombo (3h)

  

  This morning, as you go up the coast towards the north, you will also be able to see the stilt fishermen of Ahangama. We recommend visiting the city of Galle: going to Galle is like taking a step back several centuries into Sri Lankan history and its Portuguese, Dutch, and English colonial past. Located in the southwest of the island, the old city of Galle is surrounded by ramparts, like a fortified city by Vauban. Inside the fort, the streets intersect at right angles, with colonial-style houses with red tiles, baroque churches, etc. There is nothing better than a stroll on the ramparts to discover the fort. In the afternoon, we suggest a bike ride to discover the countryside near Galle, made up of rice fields and typical villages. Stop to refresh yourself and taste a "King Coconut" before continuing your journey to Negombo. This bike ride will let you discover another Sri Lanka, authentic and preserved! Night in Negombo

• day 9

  Negombo and Colombo International Airport (20 min)

  

  This morning, you fly to Malé, in the Maldives. You are welcomed by our representative and taken to your hotel by speed boat. Your journey continues on a paradisiacal atoll. Many activities are possible to plan your day's agenda: set out to sea and try your hand at fishing with a Maldivian fisherman? Meet the local population by exploring other islands? A dive into the fabulous aquarium? A catamaran ride? A windsurfing experience? Or simply stay on the island, go from the deckchair to the turquoise water and alternate between contemplation and a game of table tennis. A boat trip to Robinson Island could beautifully conclude this dream getaway in the Maldives! All included service in the Maldives

• day 10

  A wedding in paradise

  

  Soft white beaches, the azure sky and the endless turquoise ocean shimmer under the sun… One cannot imagine a more romantic setting for your honeymoon! On the agenda: massages at the hotel resort spa, a true Maldivian institution, combining body treatments and massages with essential oils. If you wish, we can organize a wedding ceremony. You will have the opportunity to experience a magical moment during your wedding on the white sand, facing the turquoise lagoon… All included service.

• day 11

  Relaxation on the beach

  

  While swimming, take advantage of the exceptional marine life that promises a truly magical show. Calm lagoons with translucent and warm waters, multicolored fish, paradise beaches, coral reefs. Or, enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling, which are of course the must-do activities on the island! Otherwise, you can relax on the pontoons, in the sun or in the shade: be careful, it gets hot here! SPF 50 is a must in your suitcase… Your resort organizes night fishing trips. Fishing at dusk will be a great activity after a day of relaxing on the beach. Why? Because the biggest fish are easier to catch in the evening, when they come out to feed, than during the day. How about a barbecue in paradise? All included service.

• day 12

  Malé International Airport and return to France

  

  Today, you reach the epilogue of your journey in the Maldives. While waiting for your transfer to the airport, you enjoy one last time this fabulous natural world: breathe, swim, walk on the sand to feel and engrave in your body, your mind, and your heart these unforgettable emotions. As the boat moves away from your island, you continue to soak in beautiful images. After 45 minutes, you reach the mainland and Malé airport, enriched by the wonderful memories of your double discovery of Sri Lanka and the Maldives. All good things must come to an end... Today, your driver will take you back to the airport so that you are there 3 hours before your flight to Frankfurt departs. We hope you will leave with plenty of beautiful memories in mind! ***END OF YOUR TOUR***