Travel through Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and Bentota, enjoying in-depth commentary along the way from special guests about the history, culture and spirituality of this small island nation.
Stay in the Historic Galle Face Hotel
One of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, it was built by four British businessmen and dates back to 1864. Settle in and relax, surrounded by history and old-world charm.
Visit an Elephant Orphanage
Native to the country, the Sri Lankan elephant is a recognised species of the Asian elephant. On this visit, come to understand more about the elephants and the work being done to preserve this species.
Tea Auction in Colombo
Witness the legendary Tea Auction of Colombo! While much of the local jargon will make little sense to a visitor, the atmosphere is amazing as each bidder tries to out-do the other - a real experience for the senses!
Cruise the Mahaweli River
All aboard for a relaxed cruise that showcases lush greenery and an abundance of birdlife and wildlife on Sri Lanka's longest river.
Learn about Sri Lankan Mask Making
Masks in Sri Lanka were used for a variety of purposes including healing rituals and theatre. Witness this creative and complex craft first hand.
Matt Wade, a senior writer and columnist for Fairfax Media, has reported on the subcontinent for more than two decades and was Fairfax’s South Asia correspondent based in the region between 2007 and 2011. During this period, Matt reported extensively from Sri Lanka, including the momentous conclusion to the nation’s long-running civil war. In 2014 he won the ACFID Media Award for his coverage of international development and humanitarian issues.
A noted Colombo-based wildlife advisor in Sri Lanka, Srilal is the author of Tranquil Footsteps, which tells the story of a herd of Sri Lankan elephants in a national park and their day-to-day life as told through the eyes of the matriarch elephant. Srilal has delivered talks and presentations to a wide range of local and international audiences on the subject of sustainable tourism, environment and wildlife issues in Sri Lanka.
Malik is a director of Sri Lanka’s world-famous Dilmah Tea and a son of Merrill J. Fernando, the company’s founder. Dilmah pioneered the branding and packaging of tea with the company recognised as an innovator in the multinational dominated tea category, with an emphasis on tradition and authenticity. The company has also expanded into tourism with its Resplendent Ceylon brand.
Marie Gnanaraj is the principal designer in hand loom weaving at Barefoot, the renowned Sri Lankan cultural institution specialising in vibrant textiles. Marie, who has also developed her own special style of weaving hand loom fabric, has held several exhibitions of her woven hangings and fabrics at the famed Barefoot Gallery in Colombo. Marie also designs and produces special commissions.
Note: While effort will be made to ensure the participation of the tour special guests, circumstances beyond Collette's control may result in changes to the guests or itinerary. Terms and conditions apply to all bookings.
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