The southern coast of Sri Lanka is a mesmerizing stretch of coastline known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. From bustling coastal cities to tranquil fishing villages, this region offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking sun, sea, and culture..
Highlights:
- Only Tea Factory situated by the sea and produces white virgin Tea.
- Pictures Stilt Fisherman.
- Old Colonial City of Galle.
During this tour, you will visit the following points of interest in the specified order.
Includes:
- Transport in an Air Conditioned Vehicle.
- Service of an English Speaking Chauffer Guide.
- Hotel Pick & Drop, All Taxes.
Excludes:
- Entrance Fees, Beverages.
- Gratuities (Optional).
- Expenses of Personal Nature
Experience:
You will be starting your tour at 8:00 am from your hotel in Ahangama, where you will be picked up by your chauffeur. The first stop on your tour itinerary will be the Handunugoda Tea Factory which you will reach by 10:00 am. Ceylon Tea has been highly sought after for centuries. However, this tea factory is famous for a different reason. The Handunugoda Tea Factory has reawakened the ancient Chinese tradition of creating Virgin White Tea which is untouched by human hands during the manufacturing process. During the one-and-a-half-hour tour of the factory, you will be getting to see how this mysterious process takes place to create one of the topmost luxury teas of the world.
At 11:30 am you will be travelling to Ahangama for a meetup with stilt fishermen, who are one of the most iconic figures of Sri Lanka. You will be able to see them fishing and learn how they do it by speaking to one of the fishermen.
You will be leaving at 2:00 pm for the next stop in your itinerary, Galle City. You will get there at 2:45 pm. This coastal city has withstood three foreign invasions; during which time, it grew from a bustling port which was a main stop for ships travelling east, to a fortified and yet beautiful city with many monuments which have withstood the ravages of time. You will be able to view the Galle Fort which is a World Heritage Site, the Galle Lighthouse, the National Maritime Museum, the picturesque cobblestoned streets with their Dutch names, and many more colonial remnants. You will be finishing your city tour by 4:15 pm.
Finally, you will be going to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. You will get there by 5:00 pm and spend an enjoyable half hour more about the 5 types of sea turtles that visit Sri Lanka for nesting, and how the nests are protected. You will be able to see and touch baby turtles, and view some of the fully-grown turtles that are getting treated for injuries.
You will be returning to the hotel after this and completing your excursion by 6:00 pm.
Notes:Comfortable Walking Shoes Recommended for this tour.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Udawalawe National Park?
Udawalawe National Park lies in southern Sri Lanka, on the boundary of the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, around the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River. From Ahangama on the south coast it is roughly a 2.5 to 3 hour drive, about 110 km each way.
Is transport from Ahangama included?
Yes. Return private road transport between Ahangama and Udawalawe National Park is included in every option, along with your safari jeep at the park.
What animals will I see on the safari?
Udawalawe is one of the best places in Asia to see wild Asian elephants, with herds visible throughout the year. You may also spot water buffalo, spotted deer, sambar, crocodiles, wild boar, jackal, mongoose, peacocks and a wealth of birds and raptors; leopards are present but rarely seen.
When is the best time to visit Udawalawe?
Elephants can be seen at Udawalawe all year round, which makes it one of Sri Lanka's most reliable safari parks. The drier months from May to September offer easier game viewing, while early morning and late afternoon are the most active and comfortable times for a safari.
How long does the trip take?
This is a full-day trip from Ahangama. Allow around 2.5 to 3 hours of driving each way, with the jeep safari inside the park lasting roughly 3 to 4 hours depending on the option you choose.
Is the safari private?
Yes. You travel from Ahangama in a private vehicle and explore the park in your own safari jeep with an experienced driver-tracker, so you set the pace and get the best positions for viewing and photographing wildlife. The vehicle scales with your group size, from a car up to a larger van.
Are park entrance tickets included?
It depends on the option you choose. Select a "with park tickets" option to include the national-park entrance and service fees in your booking, or a "no park tickets" option if you prefer to settle the park fees separately at the entrance.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, drinking water, a camera or binoculars, and light, neutral-coloured clothing. Mornings and late afternoons can be breezy in an open jeep, so a light layer is handy.
