Few countries can point to such an influential figure in the development of a stylish and successful tourist sector than can Sri Lanka with Geoffrey Bawa. Bawa was responsible for linking Sri Lanka’s ancient and modern architecture. He had a deep understanding and appreciation of the country’s cultural heritage – from the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, to the influences of the Portuguese and Dutch periods – and his travels worldwide also ensured an appreciation of more contemporary styles This specialist holiday has been put together to enable those interested in architectural design to experience the works of Bawa, as well as this island’s ancient architectural heritage and natural landscapes that influenced his creations.
About TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS
The company with over 28 yrs old experienced team is committed to bringing the best in both quality and value to small group journeys, private car guided tours and tailor-made tours to India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Being a leading travel wholesaler we introduce travellers to the amazing culture and offer tours at unbeatable prices and with unparalleled comfort. For your protections TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS is approved Destination Management Company by Ministry of tourism Govt of India and member of IATA, AFTA, TAANZ, IATO and PATA to name few. We are proud to say that our team is very experienced with in-depth knowledge of destination. Our reputation is built on providing world class service with real personal touches that make a difference to your holiday. We understand the importance of giving attention to even the smallest of details and care about the countries to which we take you and make sure that we have a positive effect on the environment. Respect for locals and their way of life is an essential part of travelling with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS.
“You Rely on us and we rely on experience”
The Architecural Gem of Geoffrey Bawa - 11 Days/10 Nights
Day 01: Arrive Colombo
Meet and assistance on arrival at the airport by tour executive and transfer to the hotel for overnight stay at Wallawwa. (No Meals)
Day 02 & 03: Wallawwa – Dambulla
Travel to Dambulla in the North central region where you will experience your first Geoffrey Bawa creation: Heritance Kandalama designed in 1994. During the next two days, you will also experience Sri Lanka's ancient architectural heritage, cave temples of Dambulla and the Sigiriya Rock fortress. Stay two nights in Heritance Kandalama. (B)
Day 04 & 05: Dambulla – Kandy
The journey from the cultural triangle to Sri Lanka's hill capital, the small lakeside city of Kandy, will occupy most of the morning. Afternoon the city tour includes Royal Botanical Gardens and Temple of the Tooth relic. Stay two nights at the Kandy House, a small boutique hotel located in the outskirts of the city. (B)
Day 6 & 7: Kandy – Galle
Travel along the coast to Galle where you will stay overnight at the Light House. In the evening we will have a city tour of Galle. (B)
Day 08 & 09: Galle – Bentota
Travel along the coast to Bentota where you will stay two nights at Lunuganga, visit the turtle hatcheries and teh temple of Galapata Vihara. Stay overnight at Lunuganga. (B)
Day 10: Bentota – Colombo
Today you head back to the capital city of Colombo for your final night where you will be staying at Tintagel. (B)
Day 11: Colombo Departure
After leisurely breakfast tour finish with transfer to the Colombo International airport to board your onward flight home. (B)
Tour Ends
Meals included
Being a seasoned traveller ourselves we have discovered the travelling time is unpredictable sometime you reach a destination so late that you are tired to go out for dinner or search for a proper dinning place around the vicinity of your hotel which may become a chore during your holiday, hence we have removed the hassle by including most of breakfast and dinners in all our brochure tour packages.
Pre & Post Tour Accommodation
Do some exploring before the trip begins or add couple of nights after the tour to relax before boarding your flight. We offer competitive rates in all destinations- book in conjunction with your main tour - ask TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS or your travel agent.
Add-On (Short Tour packages)
Make the most of your time away - after all, you have travelled all that way. Our Add-On can be used as short breaks in their own right or as pre/post tour additions. With all arrangements made for you they are the perfect way to discover more of your destinations - ask TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS or your travel agent.
Private Car Tours
Our private car tour is not about leaving you alone to explore destinations or country; it’s all about giving you to opportunity to choose your own dates and travelling on leisurely paced by your own privet car and driver. Your itinerary will be private, personalised and flexible which can be chosen from our selections or customised according to your request. Your private local English speaking guide will escort you in each destination during sightseeing tour; and when you want to explore town own your own; you are perfectly free to do so.
Tailor-made Tours
Our Group and Private Car tours have been designed to feature a selection of the destination’s highlights, but they may not meet all of your requirements. At TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS we are proud to offer expert tailor-made services that enable us to construct your perfect holiday. Perhaps you would like to vary the standard of accommodation or modes of transport. On the other hand, you may want to create an entirely individual itinerary that includes destinations and experiences not covered in the featured itineraries. Whatever your needs, we are happy to design a personalised itinerary and quote without obligation.
“The Holidays you dream are the holidays we pack”
Family Holiday
What better way to spend quality time with your loved ones than to get away from the daily hectic schedule and escape to a place of sheer relaxation and comfort.
A perfect family holiday is like a Pandora’s Box of excitement, relaxation, fun, good times and wonderful memories that will be cherished for a life time. Let us tailor your every wish for that ideal family time together a dream come true and an experience that will be passed on to generations.
This itinerary can be customised to create your family holiday.
What Makes Us Different?
Being your Local Travel wholesaler and one of the True Destination Specialists our team in Australia, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan ensures that every itinerary is well balanced and filled with amazing cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery and historical sites. Most must see and must do’s are included giving you opportunity to witness sights, taste delicious cuisine, visit bazaar for souvenirs, meet and experience life of locals at the same time have some free time to explore town the way you like.
Whichever itinerary you select all are included complete travel and transfer by charted air-conditioned vehicles, local English speaking guide, sightseeing, entrance fee to the monuments and parks, safaris, boat ride, elephant or camel or horse ride, cultural shows at the theatre or hotel, domestic airfare in economy class, train fare in best available air-conditions class and not to mentioned the current govt taxes of the county. For more details of inclusions please refer to the inclusions column of the itinerary.
Prices Guarantees
All prices shown are on per person basis on twin/double and apply when you share room with travel companion. For single traveller we do offer single room and price is available on request.
You don’t need to worry about currency fluctuations. Once we receive your full payment, your land tour price is guaranteed and protected against any increases.
100% Protected Holiday
We are a member of IATA, ATAC and AFTA which ensure that your holiday is 100% protected.
No Hidden Cost
We love transparency so the prices quoted by THO are almost all inclusive and help the traveller to budget their holidays accurately. All we ask you to do is relax and enjoy your holiday, knowing that all prepaid expenses have been included in your initial tour cost. Please refer to the tour inclusions for more details.
Value for Money
Being a local Travel Wholesaler, our huge buying power help us pass the discounted rates to our clients. We also do FREE hotel upgrade at some destination as a gesture of appreciation to our valuable travellers. Apart from this our local team of experts adds incredible value for your dollar.
Loyalty Rewarded 5% Off
Many of our clients choose to travel with us time and time again. As a valued client, we offer you a 5% discount off your second and onwards tour package. This offer applies only to the tour cost of your trip and conditions do apply. Speak to us for details when making your booking.
Multi Trip Discount 5% Off
If you have the time why not combine two or more of our tour and save? In any one holiday, we will discount your second and onwards trip by 5%. Tour package must be minimum 10 days or more from our brochure and discount applies on lowest price tour package. Discount does not apply to add-on pre & post accommodation, train journeys, flights and/or any small packages or services.
BIG SAVINGS when travelling with your friends and family
The advantage of a true specialist is their knowledge and confidence in assisting anyone who is keen to visit a destination but like to do things differently. Is a special occasion? Do you want to experience a festival, lead a culinary adventure, organise a yoga and wellness group or cycle the off beaten tracks of India or Sri Lanka with people close to you? Or do you find parts of one of our tours appealing but want to alter dates or itineraries to better suit your groups’ needs?
Please contact us with your wish list and our team will be glad to tailor-make your special tour ensuring all possible activities and ideas are incorporated, making a unique group tour.
(Best suited discount will be offered and any discount can not be combined with any other discount or promotions)
24/7 Helpline and assistance by THO Local Offices
We have a 24/7 Helpline number available in Sri Lanka and New Zealand at all times. We strongly advise you to contact us immediately if there is an issue regarding your tour, in order for us to resolve it as soon as possible so that you can enjoy the tour. Your co operation on this issue would be highly appreciated.
International Flights
The tour packages are usually “Land Only” and do not include international flights. We therefore recommend that you contact us or your travel agent to book your flights well in advance of travel, when you can generally gain access to specials and discounted airfares. This will ensure you can travel on the days that suit you and your tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our journeys. Speak to us or your travel agent about comprehensive insurance to cover your travel arrangements. This must critically cover medical expenses in case of an emergency. Note that travel insurance automatically provided with credit cards generally does not provide adequate cover. Its your responsibility to ensure that you have appropriate and comprehensive travel insurance.
Medical Information
Our elderly travellers who are aged 70 years or more, or with a per-existing condition that affects their fitness to travel or any medical dietary requirement, must be advised at the time of booking. We recommend all travellers should visit their Doctor for these aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour.
Type of Accommodation
As there is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka during the day therefore everyone deserves a good night sleep. We choose quality accommodation according to the category you are travelling in, based on providing a place of rest that offers not only comfort but also an authentic experience rather than staying in a hotel that could by anywhere in the world. Every hotel might be different according to location, amenities and services. While selecting hotel we consider great location, private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning to name few.
Hotel Grading
Comfort: 3 star hotels offering basic and clean private facilities.
Deluxe: 4 Star hotel, Palaces and Heritage properties offering above average to very good facilities.
Luxury: 5 star hotel, Palace and Heritage properties offering full range of facilities and exceptional services with unique feature.
Note:
The cities which do not have more choice of hotels, the best suitable category of hotel is provided.
It is also possible to take a combination of comfort, deluxe and luxury accommodation in one itinerary.
Nepal being adventure destination, choices of accommodation are limited hence basic 3* or best available hotel in the itinerary except at some location where 4* and 5* hotel options are offered.
In Bhutan itinerary basis 3* hotel accommodation is used unless requested.
Selecting Your Holiday Type
Most of our journeys are suited to those with normal fitness and mobility levels. To assist you in choosing a journey best for you we have graded our tours;
Easy Paced: These programs are set at a comfortable pace. Walking and climbing of stairs involved is generally in and around major tourist attractions though you may require walking from road till boat jetty while embarking or disembarking boats.
Moderate: These tours are not strenuous but you will require good amount of fitness as they may include days with long periods of walking or soft trekking, climbing of stairs, embarking and disembarking boats and where longer distances may be travelled by uneven roads.
Adventurous: These refer to programs where your physical fitness needs to be on highest level. Trekking, cycling, climbing, walking and more adventurous activities may be included.
Travelling In Sri Lanka:
The key to travelling is patience! Distances can sometimes be vast, roads are often congested and rustic and time is not necessarily of the essence. With many different options of travel, each will bring with it a different perspective of this fascination country.
We recommend that you carry a roll of toilet paper from your hotel before you start your sightseeing tour or train journey as in emergency stop some of the public toilets may not have sufficient toilet rolls and also to avoid any inconvenience to yourself.
Passport & Visas
India: Visa is required for all foreign nationals and you must obtain an Indian visa prior to leaving home as visa processing varies country to country. Passport must be valid for at least six months before you commence travel in India. Travel to Sikkim requires a special permit; application may be made when applying for a standard Indian visa at the local Indian High Commission.
As of 25 Sep 2013 nationals and passport holder of New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Finland, Luxem Bourg, Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia and Myanmar can avail visa-on-arrival (VoA) facility upon disembarking at international airports Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi and Trivandrum only. You will require to pay fee along with require documentation and is subject to verification and satisfaction of the Immigration. Please contact high commission of India for updated information.
Sri Lanka: Every tourist visiting Sri Lanka required visa prior to departure. Visa must be obtained atleast 01 months prior to arrival in Sri Lanka by visiting www.eta.gov.lk The Tourist visa is valid for stay within 30 days. Passport must be valid for at least six months before you commence travel to Sri Lanka. Fee will apply.
Nepal: Visa is required for all foreign nationalities and the best way to apply for visa is from the Royal Nepalese diplomatic missions in your home country. Tourist Visa also can be obtained on arrival. Passport must be valid for at least six months before you commence travel in Nepal. Fee will apply.
Bhutan: All foreign nationals require visa for Bhutan.
Visa can be arranged by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. To process this we require clear readable colour copy of passport (page containing passport no and face picture in JPEG or PDF format) and current colour passport photograph and at least 30 days prior to date of entry into Bhutan. Remaining validity of passport should be at least 6 months from the date of exit from Bhutan.
Tourism Council of Bhutan issues visa clearance letter closer to travelling date which we email or fax you or your local travel agent. Travellers are required to produce aforesaid visa clearance copy at the time of check-in for their flights while those entering Bhutan by surface via Phuentsholing or Samdrup Jonkhar, they are required to produce this Visa Clearance letter at the Immigration counter. Actual visa is stamped at passport on arrival in Bhutan.
Visa only service is not offered in Bhutan, you would have to book a service tour package from TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS that includes accommodation, guided tours, transfers etc
Myanmar: Visa is required for all nationalities.
Visa can be arranged by TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS. To process this we require international flight details, clear readable colour copy of passport (page containing passport no and face picture in JPEG or PDF format) and current colour passport photograph and at least 30 days prior to date of entry into Myanmar. Remaining validity of passport should be at least 6 months from the date of exit from Myanmar.
HOW TO BOOK
You can contact our associate travel agent, call our local office, email us or book online. Booking forms must be completed to ensure TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS has on file all the necessary information such as passport details, travel insurance policy details and emergency contacts etc. Travellers over the age of 65 and those with pre existing medical conditions will also be required to provide a medical certificate to certify they are fit to travel. By booking through travel agent or online means you have read and agreed to the TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS booking conditions. For more detail please click here.
Team at TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS wishes you a wonderful holiday!!!
Day 01: Arrive Colombo – Wallawwa
Upon arriving in Sri Lanka, transfer to the Wallawwa in Kotugoda, a boutique colonial-style bungalow just 15 minutes away from the International Airport. Relax after your long journey. (No Meals)
Day 02 & 03: Wallawwa – Dambulla
Travel to Dambulla in the North central region where you will experience your first Geoffrey Bawa creation: Heritance Kandalama designed in 1994. Bawa conceived the hotel 'as an austere jungle palace’ located on the bund of an ancient 3rd century tank (reservoir) and captures the surrounding magical views from every angle. Kandalama is a naturalist’s dream hidden within the edge of a jungle, filled with numerous species of birds, butterflies and plenty of monkeys. During the next two days, you will also experience Sri Lanka's ancient architectural heritage – ruins of cities, palaces and temples built by kings of the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods dating back to the 3rd century BC. In Dambulla, visit the ancient Buddhist cave temples and the Sigiriya Rock fortress. You also have the option of visiting Aukana, where the Buddha stands 42 feet high, the best-preserved statue in Sri Lanka. If you wish, climb 1,840 steps, high above the palm trees, with the pilgrims to the summit of Mihantale rock. Thereafter, visit the fabulous 'Mahakanadarawa' stone bridge, which dates back to the 7th century and is situated in the midst of the forest. Within the cultural triangle, you will also see Sri Lanka’s ancient hydraulic heritage: irrigation works consisting of tanks (reservoirs), sluices, and canals built by Kings 2,500 years ago. This system still serves the surrounding villages today. (B)
Day 04 & 05: Dambulla – Kandy
The journey from the cultural triangle to Sri Lanka's hill capital, the small lakeside city of Kandy, will occupy most of the morning. In the afternoon, a city tour includes the fabulous Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya and the Temple of the Tooth where a sacred tooth relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined since 4th Century A.D. We recommend spending two nights at the Kandy House, a small boutique hotel located in the outskirts of the city. The Kandy House is a brilliant small boutique hotel capable of offering stylish and private accommodation, personal service, and delicious food - all in a stunningly beautiful natural setting. The freshwater infinity pool in the garden provides an irresistible opportunity to unwind and relax under the shade of tropical trees. (B)
Day 6 & 7: Kandy – Galle
Travel along the coast to Galle where you will stay overnight at the Light House. En route, you will pass several of Geoffrey Bawa’s creations including Ruhuna University in Matara, an inspiring creation by Bawa built between two hills; this university campus consists of pavilions and courtyards with breath taking views of the Indian Ocean.
In the evening we will visit the Galle’s 17C Fort – a UNESCO protected World Heritage Site. Experience the Portuguese and Dutch period architecture within this fort. The thick, high ramparts that protect and distinguish the Fort are today used for romantic evening strolls and convenient viewpoints to catch the sweaty action of local 'village' cricket games and the international games held in the adjacent Galle cricket stadium. Another highlight of Galle is the Dutch Reformed Church built by a Dutch Army officer at the site of a previous Portuguese church and completed in 1754 the church is situated close to the new entrance to the fort. The church contains record of marriages since 1748 and baptism from 1678. The other significant of the building is there are no pillars inside the building and the weight of the roof is supported by the walls. We stay overnight at the Lighthouse Hotel designed by Geoffrey Bawa in 1994. This elegant boutique hotel is located on a rocky headland overlooking the Indian Ocean. The architecture conveys an immediate sense of history with the Portuguese landing at Galle is re-enacted in brass and bronze on the impressive main staircase and an ambitious batik of ancient coats of arms fills the ceiling of the restful main bar. Lighthouse hotel, like Kandalama, demonstrates Bawa’s skill at 'integrating architecture and landscape, and his stenographic manipulation of space. (B)
Day 08 & 09: Galle – Bentota
Travel along the coast to Bentota where you will stay two nights at Lunuganga - a garden retreat that was originally an old rubber plantation that Geoffrey Bawa transformed into a haven of peace. Continuing further south west you reach Bentota, the city is graced by palm trees and a serene atmosphere. We visit the temple of Galapata Vihara dating from the 12th Century. It is said to have been built by Parakramabahu the Great, who also built the city of Polonnaruwa. Also visit the turtle hatcheries a must visit if you wish to take a look at the conservation of turtles. The turtle hatcheries are open from 06:00 in the morning to 18:00 in the evening. If you wish to release a freshly hatched three-day old turtle into the ocean, you can here.
Once at Lunuganga, you will have an opportunity to experience Bawa’s personal space. Lunuganga is a garden retreat that inspired him and was closest to his heart. The Lunuganga gardens were a lifelong project cherished by Bawa and designed with numerous varieties of foliage, many pavilions and statues. Bawa continued to develop the gardens for almost 50 years – a personal journey which helped to inspire his creativity. (B)
Day 10: Bentota – Colombo
Today you head back to the capital city of Colombo for your final night where you will be staying at Tintagel – a luxurious boutique hotel housed in one of Sri Lanka’s most famous ancestral residences belonging to the family of Sri Lanka’s former president. The hotel is a short ride away from several public buildings designed by Geoffrey Bawa including Sri Lanka’s parliament building in Kotte, which the president at the time commissioned Bawa to design in 1979. For your final night, we recommend dinner at the Paradise Road Gallery Café, which housed Bawa’s office. The entire workspace lies between two courtyards with columns, walkways and open pavilions – hallways that inspired a creative genius. The Gallery – as it is locally known – now provides for a memorable dining experience that also serves as an art gallery that promotes the creative talents of young artists. (B)
Day 11: Colombo
After breakfast the tour finish with transfer to the airport to board your onward flight home. (B)
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LUXURY | STATUS | |||||||
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2014 - 2015 |
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| 2014 | 2015 | A | ||||||||||
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Make this your Family Tour - Child under 5 years old stays free. During festival and New Year surcharge may apply |
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Starts: Colombo
Ends: Colombo
Grade: Easy Paced
Departs: Daily
05 Nights accommodation at the hotel with private facility
Service of an English speaking chauffer guide
Meals on Bed and Breakfast
Entrance fees to the sites namely:
- Kandy Temple of the tooth Relic
- Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
- Sigiriya Rock fortress
- Polonnaruwa Ancient city
- Anuradhapura Ancient city
- Aukana Buddha Statue
- Mihintale Temple
- Garden tour in Lunuganga hotel
Garlands on arrival
Meet and greet at the airport
Dinner at Gallery Cafe on the last day
Return Airport Transfers
Colombo city and shopping tour
Personal expenses
Extras on tour
Meals which are not specified above. (Lunch and Dinner on tour)
Services which are not specified above
Entrance to the site visits which are not specified above
Camera Fees where applicable
Tips and Poter-age
Entry Visa Fees, please visit www.eta.gov.lk for more details / submit your individual visa application
Overland travel by private air-conditioned car with driver
Itinerary can be customised to suit your requirements
Order sightseeing may vary according to local conditions
Normal Hotel check-in/out 1200 hours
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Electricity: Current is 220V, 50Hz -Type C (European 2-pin), Type D (Old British 3-pin)
Time Zone: GMT +5.5 hours
Ask for pre and post accommodation