ROCS Guided Holidays 19 Day Sri Lanka, Maldives & Dubai 2024

providing shelter during his period of exile. This is identified to be the best preserved cave temple complex in the island. Head inside the many revered caves where you will enter into a phase of tranquillity and see the insights of a not so often found cave temple. The surrounding scenery from the top will also offer breath-taking views for you to take a moment and enjoy. En-route, the next stop will be at a spice garden in Matale. Sri Lanka was historically attractive to the Western nations for its spice riches and the country is famous for a range of sought-after spices. Did you know, Sri Lanka produces arguably the best Cinnamon in the world? Learn more about how the produce is cultivated and processed to achieve its high quality, and only if interested you have the opportunity to purchase them as required. Continue the journey to Kandy, and on arrival make way to explore the hill capital. Kandy, a city with great significance holds much importance for all Sri Lankans and foreign visitors alike. It was the last kingdom of the ancient kings of the island before it was finally ceded to the British. And being home to the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha, Kandy is an example of the Buddhism’s influence in Sri Lanka today. Head on an interesting city tour and walk navigating together with your guide through the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Travel to the various bazaars, mingle with the locals, experience local arts and crafts and enjoy some unique local food or drinks to keep you energized. The cool breeze that blows from the Kandy lake to the surroundings will create a refreshing climate making the experience that much nicer. The aptly named temple houses the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Since its arrival to the island in the ancient times, the relic had played an important role closely connected with the authority for Royalty. The visit is scheduled to be in-line of witnessing the daily service taking place. These rituals are carried out in a similar form as dedicated to Lord Buddha back then. The sound of the drums beating will notify you the start of the service. Ending an active day, head to the 5* Golden Crown Hotel for check in and

revitalize yourself preparing for the next day.

You then walk along the mirror wall, where you can see the interesting verses inscribed by visitors who arrived at the rock since long time ago. Arrive at the magnificent lion paw, which will give you a glimpse of the wonders that are above. Take a minute to relax and capture few photos before heading to the top. When you reach the peak you will have a 360-degree view of the area where you will realize the splendour of scenery on top, of the lush greenery, the lakes with views as far as you can imagine. Also viewing the historical ruins on the peak, take a moment to imagine yourself as the mighty ruler of this Kingdom and feel like Royalty! From here travel back in time as you head to explore the second ancient capital of the island, in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The era of the Polonnaruwa kingdom is known as a golden era in the island. You will learn the history and importance it holds and how this once self-sufficient land gives lessons for life even today. The well preserved ruins will make you wonder the strength of the architects and the constructors back in the day, and the attention to detail of the craftsmanship will depict the massive talent which they held! invasions influenced and changed the course of Sri Lankan citizens and how the land was won back. A timeless quote was made by an ancient ruler of this kingdom stating that “no drop of water falling from the heavens was to be wasted and each was to be used toward the development of the land”. See how the words were put in to action as this ruler constructed one of the largest lakes in the island. Take a moment to relax on the lake bund and refresh with some king coconut water before commencing the journey back. Learn how foreign DAY 5 – DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards commence the transfer to the central parts of the island. First visit of the day will be to the Dambulla cave temple. A temple built in appreciation by an ancient king for Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6 – KANDY – HEELOYA Breakfast at the hotel. What could be better than an authentic and exclusive experience for you to enjoy together! No matter your age, prepare yourself for a fantastic time in the rural areas to experience Sri Lanka in its purest tranquillity and to experience the pristine landscape. Your expert guide will meet with you at the trail head and guide you through the route. Falling through jungle patches, farmland, and uninhabited areas the village routes give you the opportunity to soak up the serene surroundings. As mentioned this will be a private experience just for you! Why rush? Make the walk at a pace you can enjoy this experience to the fullest and rest stops will be allocated to refresh yourself. During this experience we will extend the special chance to enjoy the cool, crystal clear waters of the area with a bathing session in one of the natural streams, depending on the water levels and safety. Then you arrive in the village, where you will be warmly welcomed. Interact with the villagers and learn about the simplicity of their life, how they live day to day and how the traditions are preserved in this rural village. After joining with a family, you will be invited to a delicious lunch in the village! With the experience you have gained, you are more than welcome to help cook the meal. Enjoy the meal together and make another worthy memory of your tour. Spending some quality time here, towards evening we say goodbye to the villagers and start our journey back to the starting point in a local mode of transport. Head back to the hotel. DAY 7 - KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA Breakfast at the hotel. Thereafter start the day on a relaxed and laid back pace. The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, a venue existing from the times of Royalty it was re-planned by the British to establish as a botanical garden. It offers a broad experience of Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SRI LANKA, MALDIVES & DUBAI 2024

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