Madu River Boat Safari

Balapitiya is where one could just sit back and observe how ecology and culture combine under the sun! Cut through the clear water of Madu River, a lifeline of Balapitiya and head towards Kotu Duwa, the small Island housing a temple that dates back to ancient Sinhalese kings. Or, sail through tunnels of shady mangroves swaying alongside Madu River, hiding an ecological treasure to witness the tranquility of this bio-diversity hot spot which boasts of reptiles, mollusks and over 70 species of freshwater fish. Today the region, which is strong in observing rural folklife in the island does not only boast of cinnamon plantations in abundance but also has a fine ‘fish pedicure center’, one of the most potent & latest rejuvenation techniques. Apart from these amenities, Balapitiya has also become a household name in the minds of bird watchers ensuring a thrilling offshore experience.

Turtle Hatchery

Sea turtles are an endangered species, and as responsible citizens of this planet, it is our duty to protect them. Albeit the chance of taking part in such act maybe rare in our daily lives, holidaying in the South Coast of Sri Lanka will get you that chance. Kosgoda is a famous destination for various attractions, but in particular, it is famous for turtle hatcheries. Visitors are welcome at these hatcheries as these organizations are committed on raising awareness of the importance of preservation of sea turtles. These organizations collect turtle eggs from beaches, some employing contributions from local communities, and keep the eggs in safety until they are hatched. Even after the eggs are hatched, the baby turtles are kept under safe conditions until they are fit to be released into the nature.

Bawa Garden Tour

Geoffrey Bawa is Sri Lanka’s most prolific and influential architect. His work has had a tremendous impact upon architecture throughout Asia and is unanimously acclaimed by connoisseurs of architecture worldwide. Every turn and every bend in Bawa’s country home is an interesting experience – with so many exotic plants and trees and views to take in throughout the distinct homes and garden. The house itself is sparse but beautiful, full of impressive paintings and photographs of a bygone age. You have the option of sitting down to have some tea and biscuits.

Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka‘s bustling commercial hub, is located on the country’s west coast and with a population of between 800,000 and one million (estimates vary) is by far the country’s biggest city, as well as the most developed.

The city is a jarring mix of old and new, with a central cluster of high-rise office blocks and hotels overshadowing red-tiled colonial-era buildings and sprawling street markets which overflow with high-piled fruit and vegetables, colourful silks and cottons, and deliciously fragrant spices. On its crowded streets stand places of worship, symbolic of Sri Lanka‘s multiethnic heritage: graceful Buddhist viharas (temples), for instance, stand close to extravagant temples encrusted with Hindu statuary, along with Muslim mosques with minarets scattered along Colombo’s streets.

Scheduled visits:
• Gangarama Seema Malakaya – Gangaramaya Temple is the center for the most extravagant Vesak festivals in Colombo and Navam Perahara in February each year. Seema Malakaya Meditaion Center – Designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa and run by Gangaramaya Temple this small but eye catching meditation center is famous for it’s bronze Thai Buddha statues.
• National Museum, where you can watch some aspects of the history and culture of Sri Lanka.
• Independence Memorial Arcade & Independence Square
• BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall)

• Odel shopping
  • Cinnamon gardens
  • Shopping at Laksala state owned Handicrafts emporium
  • Lighthouse and Clock tower
  • Old Parliament
  • Beire Lake
  • Pettah – The chaotic Pettah markets definitely worth a visit to see the ordinary disorderliness. Pettah market is an amazing experience for bargain shoppers. It’s noisy, sticky, smelly, hot and crowded with it’s narrow streets and shops and stalls of merchandise.

INCLUSIONS

• Port pickup and drop-off for cruise ship/other ship passengers
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

EXCLUSIONS

• Tips, gratuities, and expenses of personal nature
• Entrance fees to Madu riverboat cruise, Turtle Hatchery, Bawa Gardens, Colombo Museum (Given in the entrance fees column)