Highlights of Sri Lanka and Maldives

Negombo is a bustling beach town with plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation! Nestled on the rim of Negombo Lagoon, the town boasts a long stretch of buzzing yet beautiful beach, and is located close to Colombo. Originally named as the Group of Bees in the local language of Sinhalese, Negombo enjoyed pride of place for centuries as one of the biggest and best producers of wild cinnamon. Traces of Negombo’s colonial history are still evident in the ornately crafted Roman Catholic churches that are strewn around the town. It's for this reason that the town is affectionately known as Little Rome. Negombo offers safe swimming and ample diving opportunities, including to a 50 year old shipwreck that houses coral reefs and an array of fish. There's also an abundance of fresh and delicious seafood for you to feast on.

Discover the sights and sounds of Negombo, a seaside town that showcases Sri Lanka's lively culture and heritage. Soak in the morning sea breeze as you saunter around its famed beaches, making your way to the 17th century Dutch Fort that now houses a prison. Walk past the picturesque Negombo lagoon till you arrive at the vibrant fish market where the day’s first catch of crabs, lobsters and prawns is auctioned off to the accompaniment of lively bargaining and customary jostle. Stroll along the historic Hamilton canal built by former Dutch rulers to facilitate trade and transport. Take in more of the city’s architectural heritage with a visit to St Mary’s Church that bears the distinctive Neoclassical mark of its Portuguese history. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that best time to visit fish market is 0630 hrs; Fish Market is partially closed on Sundays and Christmas Day)

Sigiriya is the ideal location if you wish to venture back in time! Unearth this UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back 5,000 years to the Mesolithic period. Built by King Kassapa I in the 5th century who decided to leave Anuradhapura, this palatial city was inspired by the mythical abode of Kuvera, the God of Wealth. Showcasing Sri Lanka’s architectural tradition, this ancient city center has been remarkably preserved and portrays the complexity and finesse of early urban planning. The fusion of symmetrical and asymmetrical elements are smattered through functional and spiritual buildings, water gardens and tree-lined pathways, with the world renowned rock fortress at its heart.

Kandy was established in the 14th century and was the last independent city and capital of the Singhalese kingdom. Despite successfully defying many invaders for over 300 years, including fierce Portuguese and Dutch colonialists, the city fell to the British in the 19th century. Today, Kandy stands proudly with its fusion of colonial, Buddhist and post-independent Bawa architecture that adorn its streets, whilst enveloping a manmade lake. The city’s outskirts are provincial and incredibly scenic, with abounding rubber and tea plantations and paddy fields. Each year, Kandy hosts the world renowned Esala Perahera, a magnificently regal parade, complete with decorated elephants, trumpet fanfare and costumed drummers.

Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, has something for everyone! A strategic port on the ancient Spice Route, the city is a potpourri of colonial influence, from the British to the Portuguese and Dutch. Verdant vistas, quaint old shops and chic bars vie for attention alongside colonial architecture and some of the swankiest hotels on this side of the world! The busy Pettah Market is a treasure trove for travelers and locals alike, while the fort offers a perspective on the city’s rich history. Lush gardens, designer boutiques and the ritual of high tea are hallmarks of local life, as is cricket, Sri Lanka's most popular sport! Explore the various cuisines that Colombo has to offer by visiting any of the several restaurants scattered across this beautiful city.

Discover the cosmopolitan capital on this leisurely walk through shaded boulevards, spotting heritage buildings and iconic landmarks. Excursions to various parts of Colombo are possible depending on the time available to you. Explore the Fort with its distinctive colonial architecture, before ambling down to the lively local markets at Pettah. If the streets are crowded, worry not! Your car is available to transport you to the varied attractions so you can avoid the rush. You can stroll along Sea Street or stop by Hindu temples and Muslim mosques that stand next to each other in this neighborhood. There is also the option of visiting the city’s landmark Town Hall and Old Parliament buildings, near Lipton Circle and Independent Square, for a better understanding of the history of this island nation. Take in the city’s posh neighborhoods around Cinnamon Gardens if you have time, or head straight for the beaches along the waterfront at Galle Face Green. (TOTAL DURATION: 3.5 hrs; TRAVEL TIME TO ACTIVITY: 1 hr; TIMINGS: 08:00 hrs- 17:00 hrs).

Male finds mention in almost every traveler’s wish list for being the gateway to the incredible Maldives’ islands. One of the smallest capitals in the world, the city’s appeal lies in its quaint avenues, squeaky clean streets and imposing skyscrapers. Compared to the relaxed ambience within the islands surrounding Male, the bustling city is something extraordinary! Herein lies the true Maldivian spirit, with bright lights, quirky bars, a maze of local markets that sell everything under the sun, and mosques that bear testament to the city's Islamic heritage. A word of caution, alcohol is prohibited on the island, although it is allowed within the private resorts.