Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. When you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, you’ll be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel in nearby Negombo. Here, you’ll meet your leader and fellow travellers at a 6 pm welcome meeting. If you arrive early, maybe take some time to relax on the beach under the blue sky. After your welcome meeting, your leader will take you to a local restaurant for a seafood dinner. Sri Lankan food is famous for its rich scents, spices and flavours, and this evening you’ll find out why as you sample some local favourites like pol sambol (a tasty coconut dish) and roast paan (crispy roasted bread).
Rise early this morning for a visit to the Negombo fish market. Morning is the best time to visit the market – your leader will help you navigate the organised frenzy of vendors displaying things like crabs, lobsters and squid. Then, say goodbye to Negombo and make the drive to Dambulla, where you'll spend the next three nights. Settle into your hotel and in the late afternoon, head out for one of the highlights of any visit to Sri Lanka – the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site of the palace of Sigiriya (Lion Rock). This dramatic rocky outcrop, rising from the surrounding plains, is topped by a ruined palace. It's a good workout to get to the top, but the sight makes it well worth it. Your leader will share stories of the ancient civilisation who once lived atop the rock as you climb. In the evening, return to Dambulla for a Sri Lankan style barbecue. Tuck into a delicious array of fresh grilled fish, meat and vegetables, and watch a demonstration on how to make chilli and coconut sambol, so you can recreate the taste of Sri Lanka at home.
Discover a country that radiates warmth – from its glorious sunshine and scorching cuisine to the incredibly kind people, this is Sri Lanka. This 14-day Premium adventure through ‘the Teardrop of India’ will take you straight to the heart of the country. Explore the ancient ruins of past civilisations, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya, search for rare and beautiful animals like elephants and leopards, relax on palm-fringed beaches and soak up the hospitable welcome from the locals. From the spicy food scene to the Exclusive cooking class and high tea, this adventure sees all the best bits or Sri Lanka in style.