Vegan Ventures - Sri Lanka Adventure

Airport - Hunumulla (Approx. 30 minutes)

Meals: Dinner

Ayubowan! - You have arrived! Welcome to Sri Lanka! 

On arrival, clear immigration and customs. Exit into the arrival area where you will be met by your private guide. 

“Sri Lanka is a place that does not come in the news too often and most people know very little about it. Yet this island on the Indian Ocean packs more than your average destination. 

Let’s see. Where can you find ancient archeological sites, wild elephants, hiking in Indiana Jones settings, beautiful tea country, spicy curries that will make you crave for more, train rides right out of a Paul Theroux novel, and last but not least friendly hospitable people with an innate welcoming nature. 

We can all agree that Sri Lanka is on the way to become a major travel destination so now is the best time to visit it before it becomes popular and inundated by tourists. At the moment traveling in Sri Lanka has all the flavor of discovery of mapping uncharted territory – join us for a journey to unveil the secrets of Ceylon.” 

Transfer to Ambarella Lodge, and check-in at the hotel to unwind from your travels. 

Located in the middle of a functioning coconut estate called Kotaliyadde Estate, Ambarella Lodge provides a perfect introduction into the Sri Lankan culture. The air feels so fresh during the night with the lovely surrounding with the coconut estate around the property. An inviting pool is a welcome invitation to cool off after walking and exploring the area. 

If you arrive early and have some free time in the afternoon walk around the lush gardens and explore different types of spices around the estate. One of your hosts will happily join to explain about the different varieties.

This evening, enjoy a lovely welcoming dinner at the Ambarella Lodge with Arrack Cocktails or Mocktails.

Overnight stay at Ambarella Lodge, Hunumulla – Superior & Deluxe Rooms  (or similar)

Hunumulla - Sigiriya (Approx. 3 hours 30 mins) – Polonnaruwa (approx. 1 hour) – Sigiriya 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Morning Yoga at 0700 HRS amidst nature at Ambarella Lodge Yoga Shala

After Breakfast, proceed to explore the cultural triangle.

On arrival to Polonnaruwa, you will get the opportunity to feast on a local lunch which is tailored for vegan cuisine. 

After your lunch, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and explore in bicycles. 

Grand Palaces? Check! Monumental Stupas? Check! Life carved into harsh granite? Check! These are the to look for things at Polonnaruwa, which showcases the divine right of the King and his ardent devotion to the philosophy of Buddhism. Recognized as one of the best planned archaeological relic sites of the country, Polonnaruwa will impress you with its remarkable sculptures and temples with intricate carvings. You’ll be surprised to see most of the ruins are still in good shape even after hundreds of years!

Another highlight of Polonnaruwa is its population of toque macaques. Some call it the Monkey Kingdom after some parts of the famous Disney movie was shot here. These monkeys have been residing in the ruins since human occupation and still continue to live there long after the humans left. Polonnaruwa is a sight to behold and after an eventful day, let the relaxing swaying waves of the Parakrama Samudra (literally translates to the “Sea of Parakrama”) take you down a lane of reverie.

Fun fact: Did you know Polonnaruwa was used as a backdrop to film scenes for the music video Save a Prayer by Duran Duran in 1982?

On completion, head to your overnight stay in Sigiriya, and take a well-earned rest. 

Seerock The Kings Domain is a nice mid-range boutique hotel which pays tribute with its name to the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress. With a spacious outdoor garden area, an inviting pool, well-designed rooms and personalized service, this is definitely one of the better places for your stay in the cultural triangle.

Overnight stay at Seerock Kings Domain, Sigiriya – Deluxe Rooms  (or similar)

Sigiriya  

Meals: Breakfast, Afternoon Snacks & Dinner

Today early morning visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. 

Sigiriya, the marvellous rock fortress also known as Lion Rock is a rare jewel among the many treasures in Sri Lanka. The site was the domain of King Kashyapa whose aim was to build an impregnable fortress and within it, a heavenly abode.

Rising over the dry plains of the Sigiriya district, the tough climb of 1200 footsteps up this flat-topped monodon ends with the most scenic bird’s-eye view of the emerald plains and leafy villages beneath. The skeletal layout of the ancient city within the fortress marvels its observers with the grandeur and complexity of 5th century urban-planning of Sri Lanka.

On the way to the top one can observe the famous Sigiriya frescoes of the buxom, wasp-waisted maidens bearing flowers, amidst the wilderness and ancient ruins. The smoothly glazed ‘Mirror Wall’ located a few steps away has sealed the expressions of ancient visitors, inspired by the vibrant frescoes.

The Sigiriya experience takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the pace at which you wish to ascent.

Tip: Suggest you reach here early around 7am in order to avoid the large crowds of tourists which come in later as well as the heat of the day. It makes the climb easier with the pleasant climate and this is the best time for photographs.

Later in the afternoon, you will head out to a scenic location in the outskirts of Sigiriya area where a picnic style Sri Lankan high tea will be served. 

High Tea (or afternoon tea as some call it) is a tradition that originated in England and it often features items like pastries, scones, sandwiches and not forgetting a good cup of tea. However, now that you are in Sri Lanka, let’s give it a local twist and do it the Sri Lankan way. This picnic high tea will feature Pol Roti as the main highlight since it’s a dish enjoyed by every Sri Lankan regardless of social status or income. Made out of shredded coconut mixed with flour, this is best enjoyed together with Seeni Sambol which is caramelized onions mixed with Chili flakes.

Also joining in on the feast would be Kokis, a deep-fried cracker-like delicacy made out of coconut milk and rice flour. Although it is now a Sri Lankan specialty, it is considered to have been passed on from the Dutch. To add the most sought-after sweet element, there will be pancakes stuffed with Pani Pol (Treacle mixed with coconut). 

You may then sip on some ginger black tea while enjoying your meal. What more could you want for when enjoying the stunning natural surroundings, food, and a refreshing breeze?

Overnight stay at Seerock Kings Domain, Sigiriya – Deluxe Rooms (or similar)

Sigiriya – Habarana (approx. 20 mins) – Sigiriya 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This morning you will set out on a village cycling tour which explores the lifestyle of the local villagers. This experience is all about the PEOPLE because after all, it’s people that make places beautiful. 

You start by going along the inner village roads where it’s good to keep an eye for birdlife. The experience doesn’t really have a script and is not staged, so you will be visiting different houses where certain cottage industries take place.

Some of the stops include a place where they make bricks out of clay, a house where coir brooms are produced, a quick stop at the house of the village dancing teacher to observe some of the traditional dancing steps and also a stop at a house where a grandma produces a traditional ayurvedic oil. Along the way, you will also stop for a local snack with a Tea served in a coconut shell. These are all local experiences which you probably won’t experience back at home.

The final stop will be at a village house where you get to taste a mouth-watering traditional Sri Lankan lunch inspired by vegan elements prepared by Dilini, a lady from the village.

On completion, head to Athreya Ayurveda Ashram for an introductory briefing by the experts at the property. You can choose to arrange treatments for yourself as you see fit (paid directly). 

Later in the afternoon, visit and explore the Ritigala Archeological Monastery for those who do not take any treatments at Athreya Ayurveda Ashram.

Think of Indiana Jones – well that is a bit exaggerated but Ritigala in a way has that feel of being undiscovered, a world away from the most famous sites in Sri Lanka. This is not just another visit to a cultural site but also a forest walk which comes in as a bonus that creates the perfect blend of history and culture! Make sure you take time to explore in-depth and walk to the higher part of the complex. The archeological site bears a certain mysterious nature owing to the long meditational pathways that open into the thick jungle and large stone-lined reservoirs. Take time to sit down and connect with nature in this ancient meditation sacred grounds. 

Overnight stay at Seerock Kings Domain, Sigiriya – Deluxe Rooms 

Sigiriya – Dambulla (approx. 30 mins) – Matale (approx. 45 mins) – Wattegama (approx. 1 hour)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This morning head to Dambulla Cave Temple after your breakfast. 

What can be gauged from a place that has been and still is a point of veneration for over 22 centuries? A place hewn out of a gargantuan rock converted into a cave temple complex of such intricate beauty and workmanship that defies belief, adorned with murals that depict the life and times of Lord Buddha which gives the observer a feeling of immeasurable awe and a fleeting sense of calmness. This is what to expect when you visit the Cave Temple Complex of Dambulla.

153 Buddha Statues along with statues of Gods and Goddesses and Kings who sourced their wealth and time for the betterment of the Temple so that it may remain a beacon of Buddhist Philosophy adorn the five caves that the temple of which the temple comprises. Several distinct and different architectural patterns can be discerned throughout and with an altitude close to 1118 ft, gives an unparalleled panoramic view bordering Ritigala to the North and the Kurunegala Plains to the South East. If you are willing to brave the climb, a wondrous experience awaits you while giving a chance for the photographer within you, to take home memories to last a long time.

Tip: There are two major things to look out for here. Firstly watch out for the noonday sun so an early start is encouraged as in Sigiriya, which means fewer crowds and a comparatively easy climbing experience. Secondly, do not try to feed the macaques that roam abundantly. It may be a fun activity but once the entire Simian neighborhood starts targeting you for food, it will be your wrongdoing. So please refrain from taking food items and be aware of personal belongings as we as human beings get our curiosity, from them.

On completion head towards Wattegama, en route make a stop on the outskirts of Matale for a lovely local lunch. This lunch is not your ordinary local lunch, this is a twist of Sri Lankan delicacies which are famous among Sri Lankans for entire meals and snacks in between. 

After your lunch, head to Wattegama for your overnight stay and check-in. 

Simpsons Forest is a nice mid-scale property tucked away in the outskirts of Kandy. The highlight of the hotel is the location which is away from the hustle and bustle of the Kandy town but close enough for a day of exploring. The incredible view from their infinity pool is the key feature that stands out and makes everyone go bonkers.

In the afternoon enjoy a mini nature trek with the inhouse naturalist. 

Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Simpson’s 100-acre tea and clove estate along the Mini Nature Trail, where vibrant tea bushes and towering clove trees await. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and the soothing sounds of native birds in the Hunnasgiriya Forest.

Discover the enchanting Simpson's Natural Pool, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and stunning rock formations. Take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters and relax in this tranquil setting, allowing the sights and sounds of nature to create an unforgettable experience of bliss and harmony.

Total Distance: 1.5 miles (2.5 km)

Hike Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Highest Elevation: 2,400 feet (730 m)

Overnight stay at Simpson’s Forest Boutique Hotel, Wattegama – Deluxe Tea Rooms (or similar)

Wattegama – Kandy (approx. 45 mins) - Wattegama

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This morning enjoy your breakfast at leisure, and head to the Kandy City. 

In the morning hours, we head towards a homestay in Kandy where the lady of the house is waiting with her arms wide open to take you through this unique Sri Lankan tradition. 

The sessional journey of Cookery starts with an in-depth introduction to the Sri Lankan spices and how best you can combine them to bring out the perfect vegan curries. The highlight here would be fired clay pots, which help to add to the flavor of the curries. The best part is that you will be involved in the whole process of chopping vegetables, mixing spices and stirring up the gravy.

At the end of it all, your efforts will be rewarded with a mouth-watering lunch. 

Note: This is a join-in cooking experience so please let us know in advance if you have any dietary requirements.

In the afternoon you can explore the town of Kandy, the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kings.  

Kandy belongs to the fabric of legends. While Sri Lanka was under Portuguese and Dutch rule the Kings of Kandy remained defiant and independent. It was much later during the British rule that Kandy finally fell to the biggest Empire in the world. 

Today Kandy is a big city that still retains touches of its colonial history in buildings such as the Queen's Hotel, a beautiful 19th century neoclassical beauty. Wander around the lake and the streets of Kandy getting a feel for this wonderful city and exploring the local markets.

We think that markets are the heart and soul of a place, after all that is where the locals shop! So instead of falling into the tourist trap of the Spice Gardens, take a look at the wonderful vendors inside the Kandy town market. Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Pepper and Turmeric; these names not only make us think of delicious food but also relate to the age of discovery and to 500 turbulent years in the history of Ceylon under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. In addition to spices, the vendors also sell a range of seasonal fruits which is a must try.

Later visit the Temple of the Tooth which is no doubt the city’s biggest pride. 

Located at the heart of the Kandy town, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is the most iconic building of the city and one could also call it the centre of attraction where the whole city revolves around. Back in the days of the kings, custodianship of the Sacred tooth relic symbolized the right to rule the island and it was the responsibility of the kings to safeguard it. Fast forward a few decades, it is still a revered place in the hearts of all Buddhists living in the country, just like back in the days

Overnight stay at Simpson’s Forest Boutique Hotel, Wattegama – Deluxe Tea Rooms

Wattegama – Kandy (approx. 45 mins) – Hatton (approx. 2 hours 20 mins) 

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Today you will experience the most magical train journey through Sri Lanka’s hill country. Lush Tea Plantations, Mountains covered in mist and smiling people, what more could you ask for! 

It’s also a fabulous way to see Sri Lanka’s hill villages and gain an insight into the daily lives of the local people. You will be picked up with the luggage at the Hatton Railway Station. It’s a hassle-free process, just sit back and enjoy the ride!

Note: Seats on the train will be confirmed only 21 days prior to the date of travel. Seats from any particular class compartment cannot be guaranteed and will be subject to availability. 

After the train ride, head to your hotel in the tea country and spend the rest of the day at leisure. 

Overnight stay at The Argyle, Hatton – Super Deluxe Rooms (Non-AC)    (or similar)

Hatton – Nuwara Eliya (approx. 1 hour 15 mins) – Hatton 

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner 

This morning experiences the full “Tea Leaf to Tea pot” process. Hatton is best explored without a plan, but here are some suggestions. Start with a walk through the tea fields, while you walk you will meet the tea pluckers and learn the secrets of tea plucking. Afterwards, head to the tea factory to see the magic behind the making of legendary Ceylon Tea, and conclude with a nice cup of tea. 

In the afternoon visit Nuwara Eliya, the horse race track, a golf course, Victoria Park, botanical gardens and an eclectic mix of neo-Tudor building and even Scottish bungalows. Also, lovely Hindu Temples and Seetha Amman Kovil are prominent among them.  En route to Nuwara Eliya, you will be able to see the Devon Falls and the St. Clarie’s Falls. 

 
Much has changed since the heydays of the town in the 20's and 30's yet the climate is still gorgeous even with a cool drizzle and sometimes fog. Today Nuwara Eliya is a town re-inventing itself. After the Civil War and with the advent of tourism colonialism became something to be embraced: at least in terms of a revival for commercial reasons. Old derelict bungalows got patched up, and the guidebooks dubbed the town as "Little England".
The reality is somewhere in between, with the right kind of eyes you can see the faded glories of the past, yet the present offers and interesting pastiche of a regular Sri Lankan town that wants to look at the past yet is not quite sure how to face the future. 

A must-read before coming to Nuwara Eliya is Running in the Family by Michael Ondaatje, it tells us the story of a, dysfunctional, family of tea planters it certainly will add perspective to the whole experience.

Overnight stay at The Argyle, Hatton – Super Deluxe Rooms (Non-AC)        (or similar)

Hatton – Colombo (approx. 4 hours) 

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After your breakfast, head to Colombo for your final night in Sri Lanka. 

This evening you will meet an insider from Colombo who will take you on a journey in search of the flavours which makes Colombo what it is; A Melting pot of different cultures.

While Sri Lanka is a multi-cultural country, there is no better sample slice of it than the Colombo City where there is almost an equal split of different ethnicities, each carrying their own specialties of food and cooking cultures which has come down from generations. As you go along you will realize how food can be a great form of insight into the socio-cultural facets and history of a country. 

From the South Indian influenced dishes of the Tamils such as Vadai and Dosai and fusion cuisine of Sinhalese food with international flavors. Each specialty dish that you try out will have a story of its own from the past. But don’t get it wrong, this is not a history lesson with a little bit of eating but pretty much the opposite - A lot of eating with a little bit of looking back at history which had made Colombo what it is today: A Melting pot of different cultures!

Note: The best part is that there is no set script for this experience since scripts are not for explorers. So before flying into Sri Lanka, please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions and if there are any particular dishes that you would like to try and your host will try the best to accommodate all or some of your wishes. Come prepared to eat with your fingers as we share the food portions.

After you wrap up the foodie tour, head back to your hotel and have a nice sleep before you head to the airport on the next day.

Overnight stay at Granbell Hotel, Colombo – Superior City View Rooms (or similar)

Colombo – Airport (Approx. 45 minutes) 

Meals: Breakfast 

Sadly, it’s time to leave our lovely little island. Bid farewell and head off to the airport to meet your departure flight home. Hope you had a wonderful time with us and to travel is to make memories. We hope you have lots of it!   

Up, up and away! 

Option to extend for a SAFARI Experience or to the BEACH - ask us - [email protected]

TBD

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Ashley (Vegan Ventures) - 

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