Turquoise Seas

Galle
Said to be the famous Tarshish of the Bible where King Solomon obtained gems and spices, this “Living” UNESCO World Heritage Site is the port where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka in 1505. Captured and fortified by the Dutch who ruled maritime Sri Lanka in the 17th and 18th centuries, the city still retains the air of old Holland. Within the well preserved 90 acre fort and ramparts built in 1663 are Old Dutch churches and monuments with armorial bearings, an imposing crested and monogrammed gateway dated 1669, many well preserved Old Dutch houses and narrow alleys still bearing Dutch names. The New Oriental Hotel, built for a Dutch governor in 1684, a colonial gem now converted to the internationally renowned Amangalle Hotel and several other excellent boutique hotels are testimony to the importance of this location.

Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya is fast becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most sought-after holiday destinations, mostly for its undisturbed natural beauty, luxurious hotels and resorts and promise of seeing dolphins play around in its waters. Rich in biodiversity, owing to the sea and the Puttalam lagoon that border this village, Kalpitiya is a true paradise.

Divers can be ensured an enthralling experience in the waters of Kalpitiya, as corals and marine life make up a vibrant and fascinating sight. Boat rides can be arranged for dolphin watching, best season between the months of November and April. The spinner dolphins are fun to watch, as they playfully dive in and out of the water, delighting those who are lucky to spot them.

Unawatuna
The vibrant town of Unawatuna remains one of the top holiday destinations, even considered by some to have one of the best beaches in Asia. During the Dutch colonial period, the Dutch settlers, who fought for Galle in 1640, built houses for their officers in this town, some of which are seen to date, in their untouched exteriors.

Today, the town is alive during most times of the year, drawing tourists and fun-seekers to its tranquil beaches. The coral reef and shipwrecks in this area can be explored through the many scuba diving and snorkeling activities offered by various diving centres along the beach. Rich in biodiversity, Unawatuna is home many endemic birds as well as an enthralling variety of fish and turtles. The Turtle Hatchery of Habaraduwa gives visitors the opportunity to observe the hatching process of endangered turtle species.

Puttalam
The sleepy district of Puttalam lies on the west coast of Sri Lanka, lying serenely between the vast, blue sea and the tranquil Puttalam Lagoon. It is deeply embedded in the history of Sri Lanka as a significant destination of foreign settlers and explorers.

Prince Vijaya, who set foot in the island 2,500 years ago, found himself in the area of Puttalam when his boat washed ashore. Today, Muslims make up the majority of its population, and salt and coconut production, and prawn farming act as the main livelihoods of those living in the area. Puttalam is the second largest producer of both salt and coconut in Sri Lanka.

Arugam Bay
Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay has become one of the hippest travel destinations, especially amongst young, urbane globetrotters who are enchanted by its magical landscapes and big, bold waves. Arugam Bay has gained international fame as one of the best surfing destinations of the world and is home to the annual Arugam Bay Surf Competition, which draws is many pro-surfers from around the world.

The best time for surfing is between the months of May to November. The offshore and right hand breaks during this time period are ideal conditions for surfing. There are many excellent points of break in the area for surfers, including The Point, Pottuvil Point, Peanut Farm and Crocodile Rock.

Passikudah
Around thirty-five kilometers northwest of Batticaloa town on the east coast of Sri Lanka lies Pasikuda, a coastal town with a spectacular, blue bay and soft, sandy beaches.

Pasikuda is renowned because of its extended shallow coastline, making it a great spot for sunbathing and shallow swimming. The mesmerizing, azure waters are hard to resist and, along with the pristine, white-golden sand of the beach, create an incredible sight. Much of the town was destroyed during the 2004 Asian tsunami, but since then, tourism has gradually picked up. Today, Pasikuda is home to many stylish and luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that offer guests breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Trincomalee
More northeast of Sri Lanka, is the nation’s port harbor, Trincomalee. Apart from its commercial reputation as a strategic maritime location, the coastal city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country for both travelers and locals alike. Whether it’s traveling with children, loved ones, and friends or merely by yourself, the city has a lot to offer. Elements of spiritual experiences, natural wonders and elements of relaxation come together in serving guests the best journey they’ve made.

Price

Inclusions & Exclusions

The below cost includes:

• Accommodation on half board basis while at Kalpitiya. Bed & breakfast basis while at Trincomalee, Passikudah, Pottuvil, Galle, Kosgoda.
• Transport in an Air-Conditioned vehicle with an accompanying English speaking Chauffeur Guide.
• Government Tax (11%).

The below cost does not include:

• Early check-in & Late check-out.
• Entrance/excursion fees to the places mentioned in our itinerary.
• Tips and other expenses of a personal nature.

Availability at hotels is subject to confirmation of the tour and travel dates.

Payment Policy
Please note we require 50% of the payment on confirmation and the balance 2 weeks prior to arrival or the full payment can be settled on confirmation.

Payment Methods

• On-line payment using a personal credit card (Amex/Visa/Master). Log in details will be sent on confirmation.
• Bank transfer.