SRI LANKA & KERALA TOUR – 15 Days (Colombo, Kandy, Trivandrum, Kovalam, Kanyakumari, Kumarakom, Thekkady, Munnari, Cochin)

Depart: 10/11/2019 Return: 24/11/2019

Adult: from £1850 per adult on Twin / Double Sharing ITINERARY: Day 01: London to Colombo: Depart from London Heathrow and arrive in Colombo. Day 02 Arrival at Colombo airport., welcome by a representative of Lanka and transfer to Hotel Colombo.... is a fascinating city, not only for its comfortable blend of East and West, but also for its casy mixture of the past and the present .It is the Commercial Capital of the country, and is only 35 km south of the country's only International Airport. Many attractions, opportunities for shopping, availability of tasting a multitude of cuisine etc. makes it an interesting city

In the afternoon undertake a City Tour of Colombo including the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Dutch Wolvendhal Church, a Hindu Temple , Town Hall, BMICH(Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall) , Cinnamon Gardens - Prime residential area etc.

Shopping at ODEL & House of Fashion Dinner at the Flavours Restaurant Overnight stay at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo Day 03 After breakfast leave for Anuradhapura - the first Capital - 5th Century BC via Puttlam (north of Negombo) Anuradhapura … the most celebrated of Sri Lanka’s ancient ruined cities dating back to the 5th Century BC which formed the foundation for a magnificent civilization spanning over a few centuries .According to the Mahavamsa - the great Sinhala Chronicle, this was a model of planning with precincts set aside for different vocations as well as for foreigners. There were separate cemeteries for high and low castes, hostels

and hospitals and water supply was assured by the construction of reservoirs. Its greatest treasures are its dagabos constructed of small sun-dried bricks and are hemispherical in shape two of which have been identified by the UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The reservoirs used for storage of water formed the basis of the hydraulic civilization which later on spread to the entire island. Visit the Sacred City of Anuradhapura Visit many sites of the City of archaeological and historical interest including Isurumuniya - the first temple to be built in the island, Sri Maha Bodhi Tree- with an authenticated history of more than 2300 years which has been planted from a sapling from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment , Ruwanveliseya - the largest stupa in the island , Jethawanaramaya and Abhayagiriya - which in their original form have been equivalent in size to the Great Pyramids in Giza and have thus been declared as World Heritage Sites , Eth Pokuna (Size is 06 times larger than Olympic swimming pool) Twin Ponds, Thuparamaya- the first Stupa to be built in Sri Lanka enshrining the left collar bone of the Buddha, the Samadhi Statue - meditating posture etc. Lunch in a Restaurant Proceed to Dambulla

Dambulla... a collection of five caves of different sizes declared a World Heritage Site. Initial authorship is attributed to King Valagambahu who took refuge here after being driven out of Anuradhapura by invading armies, although the works span over all periods since then to the late Kandy Period in the 18th Century

En route visit the Dambulla Cave Temple considered to be the largest painted caves in the world with more than 22,000 sq. ft. of painted surfaces with many paintings, sculptures, statues of Lord Buddha, his disciples, Kings , Gods etc./ Dambulla Golden Temple Overnight stay and dinner at the Sorowwa Resort & Spa , Habarana OR Camellia Resort & Spa, Dambulla Day 04 After breakfast leave for Sigiriya

Sigiriya… a Royal Citadel for 20 years in the 5th Century AD - stark and forbidding, haunted by an epic story of murder and betrayal is attributed to King Kasyapa who found hiding here after killing his father more fruitful than meeting the wrath of the people who loved King Dhatusena much more before meeting his rival - Prince

Mugalan who had fled to India seeking reinforcements of his Army. This unique Rock Fortress or "castle in the sky" - a massive monolith of red stone that rises 600ft above ground , derived the name "Lion Rock" as the entrance to the climb to the summit is reached between the paws of a lion .

Climb the Rock Fortress of Sigiriya , a Royal Citadel for 20 years in the 5th Century AD built by King Kasyapa ,contemporary with the paintings of Ajantha and Ellora Caves in India , highlights being the Frescoes , Mirror Wall and the Lion's Paw, considered as the 8th Wonder of the modern world , thought to be equivalent to the "Alakamanda" - Celestial Palace of God Kuvera.

Continue to Kandy – “The Hill Capital” Lunch in the Gimanhala Restaurant

Kandy…literally the "City on the Hills" so named as it was protected by the nature - water , rocks and jungles. The last capital of the Sri Lankan kings before falling to the British in 1815AD which is a World Heritage Site. The name Kandy conjures vision of splendour of magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. The centre of attraction is the golden roofed Temple of

the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha .The Kandy Lake built by the last King Sri Wickramarajasinghe in 1806 holds a prominent view of the City. It is a City for arts and crafts as well culture and history Walk in to a Spice Garden and take part in a conducted tour to get some knowledge about the growth and use of spices in the day to day life Undertake a City Tour including the Upper Lake Drive - a place where one could have a bird's eye view of the city below, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha - by far the most important place of worship for Buddhists world over ,the Royal Botanical Gardens - one of the best of its kind in Asia with more than 5000 species of different varieties of flora which incidentally was the Headquarters of Lord Louise Mountbatten - the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces during the 2nd World War.

In the evening watch a Cultural Performance by traditional Kandyan Dancers and Drummers including devotional "Fire Walking"

Overnight stay and dinner at the Mahaweli Reach Hotel, Kandy Day 05 After breakfast leave for Nuwara Eliya - “The Little England" Nuwara Eliya… nestled in a wooded basin at the foot of Mount Pidurutalagala Sri Lanka’s highest peak, this region at 6,183ft above sea-level Has a cool, crisp climate unknown elsewhere in Sri Lanka. A serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Colombo, the town seems like a piece of the English Lake District. Unusual plants, birds and animals thrive here besides natural feature like waterfalls and caves. Tea, the glistening green leaves of this lovely shrub, along with neat rows of green, cloak ridges and valleys providing a lasting impression of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. The golf course – one of the most finest and picturesque in Asia – the serene Anglican Church of the Holy Trinity, beautiful parks and well-kept lawns and hedges give the place an air of nostalgia.

Visit the Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple which has Hanuman as the presiding deity where rituals are made on full moon days. This is thought to be the place where Hanuman was searching for Sita Devi.

Break journey to enjoy the beauty of the Ramboda Water Falls

Lunch in the Restaurant Also visit a Tea Factory and a Plantation to witness the manufacturing process of world famous "Ceylon Tea" and to taste a pure unblended cup of factory fresh tea before being sent to the Tea Auctions in Colombo leading to Export. Continue and visit the Sita Amman Temple - which is dedicated to all major characters Sita , Rama , Lakshman and Hanuman where the differently sized foot marks prove the immense powers of Hanuman passing through Sita Eliya where she was allowed to live a free life.

Proceed to visit and witness the beauty of the St. Clairs and Devon Water Falls

Time permitting visit the Gayathri Pedam , the first and foremost Temple devoted to Gayathri Amman in Sri Lanka built enshrining a lingam brought from River Narmada built at the place believed to be where Meghanath - King Rawana's son was blessed by God Shiva Return to Hotel Overnight stay and dinner at the Mahaweli Reach Hotel, Kandy Day 06 After breakfast leave for Colombo – “The Commercial Capital” En route visit the Elephant Orphanage to see the world's largest herd of domestic Elephants including babies Elephant Orphanage… established in 1975 as an effort towards education and conservation by way of scientific captive breeding. Located on the banks of the Maha Oya, the Elephant Orphanage provides shelter to house young elephants who find themselves displaced and lost from their natural habitats for various reasons such as environmental changes due to development projects, being abandoned by their parents when they fall into pits and ravines, etc. Lunch in a restaurant Visit the Vibishana Temple at Kelaniya Dinner at the Flavours Restaurant Overnight stay at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo Day 07: Colombo – Trivandrum: Early morning (Packed Breakfast) depart to airport for flight to Trivandrum. Arrival, Pickup and transfer for half day Sightseeing. Check-in at hotel. Overnight Stay. Day 08: Kovalam: After breakfast, morning free for leisure. Afternoon half day Guided tour of Kovalam Padmanabha Swami Temple, Kuthiramalika, Napier Museum, Art Gallery. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 09: Trivandrum to Kanyakumari: After breakfast day excursion to Kanyakumari. Full day Guided tour, visiting Kumari Amman Temple, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Vivekandha Rock. You will enjoy a short excursion to the famous Old Palace of the Rajas of Travancore at Padamnabhapura, their former capital. Visit the beautiful palace, displaying the fine craftsmanship, especially in woodwork characteristic of Kerala’s art and architecture. Later back to Trivandrum, arrival by approx. 7p.m. Overnight stay. Day 10 Trivandrum to Kumarakom/Allepey: After breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to Kumarakom. Afternoon enjoy Backwaters in Houseboat with Coffee / Tea and Biscuits. Overnight stay at Hotel. Day 11 Allepey/Kumarakom to Thekkady: Today your journey continues from the land of tea plantains to the spice land of Thekkady, the Heart of God’s own country. On arrival, check into your hotel, late afternoon enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Periyar, the watering hole within the sanctuary and spot wildlife in their natural environment. Overnight stay at hotel. Day 12 Thekkedy to Munnar: After breakfast drive to Munnar, on arrival check-in at hotel. Overnight stay Day 13: Munnar: Full day Munnar Sightseeing. Day 14 Munnar to Cochin: After breakfast drive to Cochin. Half day guided tour, visit the Chinese Fishing Nets, the St. Frances Church, Mattencherry Palace, built by the Portuguese and walk through the narrow cobbled streets, lined with antique & handicraft shops of the Jew Town to the Jewish Synagogue, the oldest living synagogue in the world. Transfer to hotel. Check-in. Overnight Stay. Day 15 Cochin - London: After breakfast, check-out and transfer to airport for flight back to London.

PRICE INCLUDES: International Economy Class air ticket Domestic Economy class air ticket Accommodation in good 3/4 star hotels in

standard room on twin / double / triple sharing basis (Wherever available, If not, best possible option. Triple room will have Mattresses for third person)

Daily Breakfast and Dinner All sightseeing as per Itinerary by Private A/c

Vehicle basis (A/c will be turned off on hilly areas)

All intercity transfer by private Vehicle Basis Services of Tour Manager /Local Guide ATOL

6178

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Visa Fee Travel Insurance Lunches Expenses of personal nature like laundry,

telephone bills, drinks etc. Any transfers not mentioned Any items not mentioned Tips and Porterages Any monument Entrance Tickets Camera Fee / Monument Charges Single Supplement £300

Booking Conditions

1) It is our most important aim that you enjoy your holiday and that we earn your trust. However, we are not

responsible for any cancellation due to any industrial disputes, Technical failure of any type of transport we use, loss of earnings, late arrivals or force majeure, or any items beyond our control

2) Our normal cancellation charges apply as a percentage of the total holiday cost. If you cancel the holiday we will require notice in writing for any cancellation: 56 days or more before departure Loss of deposit only 55 to 28 days before departure 30% 27 to 14 days before departure 50% 13 to 7 days before departure 65% 6 days or less 100%

3) If we cancel the holiday for any reason: Compensation per person: 56 days or more before departure Nil 55 to 28 days before departure £3 27 to 14 days before departure £5 13 to 7 days before departure £7 6 to the day of departure £10

4) We are not responsible for your luggage, personal money or belongings. We advise that if lockers are available in the hotel please use them. Do not have luxury or expensive items with you whilst you are on holiday.

5) During the tour, the tour manager’s decision will be final. We are not responsible for unavailability of any events or festival or attractions. Tours may be conducted without Baba Holidays tour manager subject to number of passengers per tour.

6) It is the passenger’s responsibility to have the appropriate documents. (i.e.: Passports & Visas)

7) We advise that you obtain travel insurance. Also obtain EHIC form from Post Office.

8) If due to any circumstances you no longer wish to continue the tour, there will be no refund. yna ro slaem ,moor elpirT

.noitadommocca ro sletoh detangised ta ytilibaliava ot ylno tcejbus dna ylno sisab tseuqer no smeti rehto

9) Luggage allowance only 20KG per person and 1 suit case per person.

10) If any surcharges, e.g. Fuel increase, airport taxes and/or any other costs not envisaged by us at the time of the booking are added by any government or transport provider will be passed on to you in the final invoice.

11) We have right to operate for seating rotating system during coach journey.

12) Non-refundable deposit per person is required at the time of booking.

Your Financial Protection: "When you buy an ATOL protected fight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong."

"We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the Services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable)."

"If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme."