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Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating private tour through the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with our "Kandy & Nuwara Eliya" adventure. Begin your journey with a visit to the spice gardens of Mawanella and the renowned Giragama tea factory, where you can savor freshly brewed Ceylon Tea. Explore the historic city of Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and vibrant cultural shows. Continue to Nuwara Eliya, a charming city reminiscent of an English countryside, complete with colonial bungalows and lush tea plantations. Conclude your trip with an exhilarating white water rafting experience on the Kelani River in Kitulgala. Enjoy private transportation, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations throughout this unforgettable journey. ...more ...less
Highlights
Giragama: name when it comes to Ceylon Tea, Giragama is always a household
Kandy: last ruled by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the World Heritage Site & last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings, crafts an array of culture, history and heritage in the minds of visitors across the globe
Nuwara Eliya: augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world
Kitulgala white water rafting: The Kelani River provides adventure seekers a treat with shooting rapids that facilitate white water rafting
Visit the spice garden in Mawanella
Experience the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha in Kandy
A cultural show featuring traditional music and drumming in Kandy
A walking tour around Nuwara Eliya with views of a buzzing countryside hamlet
Itinerary
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Day 1
:
BENTOTA/ KALUTARA/ M. LAVINIA – MAWANELLA – GIRAGAMA – KANDY (185km – 4hrs)
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: Hotel Topaz or similar 3*, Amaya Hills or similar 4*, Earl’s Regency or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast in your beach hotel, start your adventure to Kandy. On route make a stop at Mawanella and visit the spice garden. Then, visit a tea factory in Giragama for an authentic experience curled around a cup of tea. Watch how tea is being processed before they are graded, and send your taste buds to the edge with a fresh cup of Ceylon Tea just off the estate! Proceed to Kandy for lunch (included) and check-in. In the evening, savour dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 2
:
KANDY: TEMPLE & CULTURAL SHOW
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: Hotel Topaz or similar 3*, Amaya Hills or similar 4*, Earl’s Regency or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. In the late afternoon, proceed to visit the temple of tooth. Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. A stroll across this small lakeside town will feature the Kandy City Centre, bundled with latest and excellent brands, bazaar, an arts and crafts centre, as well as a gem museum and lapidary. Walk in colour as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Upon completion, proceed to witness a cultural show. Fine-tune your evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music and drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka. On completion returned to the hotel to savour dinner.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 3
:
KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA (80km – 2.5hrs)
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation Name: Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 3*, Blackpool or similar 4*, Heritance Tea Factory or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Nuwara Eliya. On route proceed to visit the tea factory Sri Lanka, Tea and Tourism are words which cannot be separated. Step into a tea factory processing the prestigious brand of Ceylon Tea, to observe a rich tradition kept alive up to date. As you observe the hissing and swishing of machines, inhaling the heavenly scent arising from these facilities, make sure to end your day in style over a perfectly blended cup of pure Ceylon Tea. Upon completion, proceed to do a small walking tour around Nuwara Eliya. A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls should present breath-taking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet. Lunch at Nuwara Eliya (included). Upon completion return to the hotel to enjoy dinner.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 4
:
NUWARA ELIYA – KITULGALA – BENTOTA/ KALUTARA/ M. LAVINIA (226km – 5hrs)
Location: Kitulgala
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, proceed to Kitulgala for white water rafting. As you progress on the thrilling journey, you will pass the scenic location of the river where the movie The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed. On completion, return to your respective beach hotel.
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
Operated with English-speaking driver-guide
ACCOMMODATION:
3 night’s accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Kandy
Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Topaz or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amaya Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earl’s Regency or similar 5*
Day 3 Nuwara Eliya
Standard Hotel Category = Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Heritance Tea Factory or similar 5*
MEALS:
3 Breakfasts
2 Lunches (Day 1, 3)
3 Dinners
TRANSPORT:
Private transportation in an air-conditioning vehicle
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES:
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Mawanella spice garden, Giragama tea factory (Day 1); Kandy Temple, Cultural show (Day 2); Nuwara Eliya tea plantation (Day 3); White Water Rafting (Day 4)
What's Not Included
Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are not included.
International Flights
International flights are not included.
Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
Optional Tours
Optional tours, if any, are not included.
City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Please Note
The pick-up time from Bentota hotels is around 07.00 am, Kalutara hotels is around 07.30 am, and Mount Lavinia hotels is around 07.30 am
The drop-off time at Bentota hotels is around 06.30 pm, Kalutara hotels is around 06.00 pm, and Mount Lavinia hotels is around 06.00 pm
One pax booking is assigned to a single room. For two adults and more, prices are per person sharing the double room. Single room supplement available upon additional cost (optional extra)
Visits to wildlife parks will be at client's own risk
Safari vehicles (none air-conditioned) available with basic insurance cover
We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed. The official check-in time at all hotels is from 12 to 14:00 pm, and check-out time at all hotels is at 11:00 am
No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Please note that alcoholic beverages will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious days
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Kandy
Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Topaz or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amaya Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earl’s Regency or similar 5*
Day 3 Nuwara Eliya
Standard Hotel Category = Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Blackpool or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Heritance Tea Factory or similar 5*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Kandy
Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Topaz or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amaya Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earl’s Regency or similar 5*
Day 3 Nuwara Eliya
Standard Hotel Category = Jetwing St. Andrews or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Heritance Tea Factory or similar 5*
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your tour.
Accommodation
Enjoy 3 nights of accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels. Stay at Hotel Topaz, Amaya Hills, or Earl’s Regency in Kandy, and Jetwing St. Andrews, Blackpool, or Heritance Tea Factory in Nuwara Eliya.
Check out our Q&As
What type of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking driver-guide.
What kind of accommodation options are available during the tour?
Accommodation options include Standard, Superior, and Deluxe hotel categories. In Kandy, you can stay at Hotel Topaz (3*), Amaya Hills (4*), or Earl’s Regency (5*). In Nuwara Eliya, options include Jetwing St. Andrews (3*), Blackpool (4*), or Heritance Tea Factory (5*).
What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches (on Day 1 and Day 3), and 3 dinners.
What activities and entrance fees are included in the tour?
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes visits to Mawanella spice garden, Giragama tea factory (Day 1), Kandy Temple and Cultural show (Day 2), Nuwara Eliya tea plantation (Day 3), and White Water Rafting (Day 4).
What should I wear when visiting temples and religious sites in Sri Lanka?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
What are the pick-up and drop-off times for the tour?
The pick-up time from Bentota hotels is around 07.00 am, from Kalutara hotels around 07.30 am, and from Mount Lavinia hotels around 07.30 am. The drop-off time at Bentota hotels is around 06.30 pm, at Kalutara hotels around 06.00 pm, and at Mount Lavinia hotels around 06.00 pm.
Are there any specific requirements or recommendations for clothing during the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is most suitable for traveling in Sri Lanka. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
What is the policy on alcoholic beverages during the tour?
Please note that alcoholic beverages will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious days.
Is there any risk involved in visiting wildlife parks during the tour?
Visits to wildlife parks will be at the client's own risk. Safari vehicles (non-air-conditioned) are available with basic insurance cover.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Reviews from travellers on this tour
Clara S
Thanks for this great opportunity!
07-Jan-2022
My parents, husband and I booked a private tour with Aitken Spence to travel to Sirigiya and the Central Highlands for a 5 day 6 night trip and we couldn't be more pleased. From start to finish the whole tour was very well organized thanks to a great organizer and great driver-guide Kusum who was very helpful and approachable throughout the trip. He was also very knowledgeable about Sri Lanka and was able to answer almost every question we asked him about the country! He was also, most importantly, a very safe driver who was highly skilled at driving (a useful skill when navigating the narrow roads of the central highlands).
Aitken Spence also booked us in on some of the most amazing hotels we've ever stayed at. The lake views and amazing room upgrade at Heritance Kandalama was particularly memorable. The service and atmosphere at the Heritance Tea Factory, located inside a tea plantation, was also unforgettable. 98 Acres, facing Little Adam's Peak, gave us a wonderful sunrise and star gazing opportunity.
Overall a great experience and I highly recommend it."
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Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of
20%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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