SRI LANKA

SRI LANKA 

Beyond the ordinary

DEAR TRAVELLER 

As a child, I was privileged to travel the world, 

my senses overwhelmed by this beautiful 

planet’s beauty and diversity. Bitten by that 

bug, it is little wonder that today I dedicate my 

working life to making extraordinary travel 

experiences available to Transun guests. 

Transun is one of Britain’s longestestablished 

independent tour operators, with 

a 30-year pedigree of pioneering destinations 

both in Europe and the Near and Far East. 

We do not attempt to cover the entire 

globe. We would not pretend our expertise 

stretches that far. Instead, we prefer to 

operate to those destinations where we know 

our many years of personal experience, 

knowledge and enthusiasm can make a world 

of difference. 

Let Transun tailor your next long-haul 

holiday just for you. Providing you with 

highly attuned, personal service and travel 

arrangements that are exactly as luxurious 

as you require, our hand-picked team 

of like-minded travel experts will ensure 

your trip is unique, memorable and, most 

importantly, stress-free. 

NICO KOSTICH 

DIRECTOR OF TRADING

HAND-PICKED AND TAILORED TO YOU... 

Every itinerary in this brochure has been personally devised by a Transun executive through 

on-the-ground experience. And every hotel has been hand-picked for its unique qualities. 

Because at Transun, we are dedicated to taking the guesswork out of long-haul travel – by 

sharing our knowledge and expertise with you. 

Transun has been operating to the Near and Far East for decades and our understanding of 

the region, its people and its unique ways, means we can provide you with worry-free, 

tailor-made arrangements. 

Whatever your personal requirements, you will always sense we’re on your wavelength. In the 

internet age, that’s a rare and precious thing… like Sri Lanka itself, in fact. 

3

SRI LANKA: A SMALL UNIVERSE 

Few places in the world can match the 

attractions of Sri Lanka, once described by 

legendary explorer Marco Polo as the finest 

island in the world. 

The Sri Lanka coast is blessed with idyllic 

and unspoiled beaches, while the island’s 

interior offers landscapes that range from 

lowland jungles rich in wildlife like elephants 

and leopards, to cool, mist-wreathed hill 

country, home to immaculate tea plantations 

first established in Ceylon’s colonial days. 

For centuries, travellers have beaten a 

path here, from explorers like Marco Polo, 

to traders and adventurers attracted by 

the island’s rare spices, exotic wildlife and 

precious stones, to present-day romantics 

seeking the ultimate island idyll. 

Bathed by the waters of the Indian Ocean 

just north of the Equator, teardrop-shaped Sri 

Lanka has long been fabled for its outstanding 

natural beauty and tranquility. 

Early Arab traders gave the island the name 

Serendib, and there is little wonder this gave 

rise to the beautiful English word serendipity, 

which means ‘fortuitous happenstance’ or 

‘pleasant surprise’. 

Today, fortuitous happenstance has 

returned to Sri Lanka since its tragic civil 

wars ended some five years ago. Now its 

gentle, warm-hearted people, its astonishing 

land and seascapes and its extraordinary 

wildlife will combine to ensure your visit is 

indeed a surprise more pleasant than you 

can imagine… 

The island of Ceylon (Sri 

Lanka) is a small universe; it 

contains as many variations 

of culture, scenery and 

climate as some countries a 

dozen times its size. 

SIR ARTHUR C CLARKE 

n CALL 01865 566785 TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR SRI LANKA TRAVEL EXPERTS OR VISIT WWW.TRANSUN.CO.UK/SRI-LANKAA

SRI LANKA HIGHLIGHTS 

What makes Sri Lanka unique is the diversity 

that such a small island encompasses. And 

with Transun you can choose an itinerary 

that mixes the elements of Sri Lanka you 

most desire to sample. Whether you stay for 

seven nights or 21, there are so many unique 

experiences to choose from. 

And as you journey from one 

extraordinary experience to another, you 

are immersed in another way of life, with 

farmers working in the paddy fields, oxencarts 

at the roadside, and smartly-uniformed 

children setting out for school. 

1 

TEA COUNTRY 

High in cool hill country are the manicured tea 

plantations, greenly redolent of a colonial past 

and cloaked in the fragrant leaves millions in 

the UK turn to daily for refreshment. 

2 

CULTURAL TRIANGLE 

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is the setting 

for astonishing ruined ancient cities, spiritual 

monuments and an extraordinary medieval 

rock citadel, once the island’s capital. 

3 

KANDY 

At Kandy, there is the urban buzz of the last 

capital of the Sidahalese kingdom, with lively 

street markets, history and culture on tap. 

4 

BEACHES 

As if all the other superlative ingredients to a 

holiday in Sri Lanka were not enough, there 

is one further magical component that almost 

goes without saying: the golden, palm-fringed 

beaches, washed by the azure Indian Ocean. 

5 

GALLE 

At Galle on Sri Lanka’s south-east tip, the 

fascinating fort and surrounding area, built by 

the Dutch in the 17th century, is a UNESCO 

World Heritage Site. 

6 

COLOMBO/ 

AIRPORT STOPOVER 

Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, the busy 

and vibrant city of Colombo offers historical 

monuments, colonial architecture, festivals 

and events, beaches, fine dining, and 

shopping. Our airport stopover hotels are 

situated close to this lively city. 

7 

LIMITED EDITION 

Some accommodation simply defies definition 

and description. Unique, special, and 

courageously individual, they provide a holiday 

sanctuary unlike anything else, anywhere. 

Such properties are few and far between but 

in Sri Lanka, we are pleased to reveal, we 

have found two such havens... 

8 

YALA NATIONAL PARK 

Sri Lanka’s biggest national park, Yala is 

believed to be home to the world’s densest 

leopard population. 

9 

UDA WALAWE 

NATIONAL PARK 

The scenic Uda Walawe National Park is a 

sanctuary and important habitat for the Sri 

Lanka elephant, with a large population in 

residence, as well as numerous other species. 

10 

WHALE WATCHING 

Take a break from your beachside holiday to 

encounter blue whales, the planet’s mightiest 

creatures, up close in the blue waters of the 

Indian Ocean. 


ROAD 

RAIL 

JAFFNA 

NATIONAL PARK 

0 20 40MLS 

PUTTALAM 

6 

COLOMBO 

HIKKADUWA 

GALLE 

ANURADHAPURA 

RITIGATA 

NATURAL RESERVE 

5 

2 

3 

HATTON 

ADAM’S PEAK HORTON 

PLAINS 

SINHARAJA 

FOREST 

RESERVE 

UNAWATUNA 

7 

4 

SIGIRIYA 

DAMBULLA 

KANDY 

NUWARA ELIYA 

9 

10 

1 

UDA WALAWE 

NATIONAL PARK 

TANGALLE 

TRINCOMALEE 

MINNERIYA 

NATIONAL PARK 

POLONNARUWA 

BUNDALA 

NATIONAL 

PARK 

8 

YALA NATIONAL 

PARK 

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL 

Sri Lanka is a good year-round destination. 

The island is affected by two monsoons each 

year, one affecting the south-west coast and 

central hills from May until late September, 

and another that affects the north-east from 

November to February. While there is no bad 

time to visit Sri Lanka, the very best months, 

enjoying the longest hours of sunshine are 

from December until March. 

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL FACTS 

Fly to 

Flying time 

Time difference 

Visa requirements 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

SRI LANKA AVERAGE MAX TEMPERATURE IN ˚C 

DAY 

NIGHT 

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 

AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL (MM) 

88 96 118 260 353 212 140 124 153 354 324 175 

AVERAGE DAILY HOURS SUNLIGHT 

Colombo 

Approx 11 hours 

GMT + 6 hours 

UK passport 

holders need to 

apply for a visa or 

Electronic Travel 

Authorisation. Visit 

eta.gov.lk 

8 9 9 8 6 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 

7

A WILDLIFE WONDERLAND 

Sri Lanka is a nature-lover’s paradise, among 

the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots. Put 

another way, it is the best place in Asia for 

seeing wildlife. The island’s unique position 

and wide range of altitudes have given Sri 

Lanka the range of climate and biodiversity 

usually found only across entire continents. 

And Sri Lankans genuinely value their 

natural heritage. Large swathes of the island 

have been designated as national parks. And 

amazingly the first of these was created by 

Sri Lankan royalty in the 3rd century BC. 

In the south-east of the island, the Yala 

National Park is believed to be home to the 

world’s densest leopard populations. No 

fewer than 32 species of mammal can be 

spotted at Yala, including wild buffalo, wild 

boar and spotted deer, mongoose and the 

extremely rare sloth bear. 

As for elephants, as BBC Wildlife 

magazine notes: ‘Sri Lanka is the best 

place to see elephants in the whole of Asia, 

with the largest gatherings of the animal 

anywhere in the world, including Africa.’ 

The Uda Walawe National Park, just 

By staying in a national park 

campsite overnight, you will be out 

on safari among the wildlife long before 

other visitors arrive, maximising your 

chances of exciting encounters. 

south of the central mountains, is home to 

scenic landscapes and rare wildlife that rival 

the savannah reserves of Africa. It is an 

important habitat for Sri Lankan elephants, 

which are relatively easy to see in its open 

habitats. The park is also blessed with an 

abundance of birdlife, including assorted 

raptors such as the changeable hawk eagle, 

serpent eagle and grey-headed fish eagle. 

KULU SAFARI 

Kulu Safari operates complete mobile camps 

deep within Sri Lanka’s amazing national 

parks, giving the chance to witness the 

abundant wildlife and experience the jungle 

at night. Kulu Safaris are committed to 

promoting nature and conservation. Facilities 

include large comfortable tents, queen size 

beds, hot water showers and toilets. Chefs 

prepare delicious meals and ensure your beers 

are cold and there is an endless supply of ice. 

n Why we chose it: A Sri Lanka safari 

is an experience of a lifetime. You will live, 

feel, smell and hear the jungle in its purest 

form, truly becoming one with nature. The 

experience is a rare privilege and you will 

leave with a better understanding of nature … 

and of yourself. 

MAHOORA SAFARI 

Mahoora operate mobile camps within the 

Uda Walawe national park, bringing you 

as close as you can get to the wonderful 

nature there. Transun guests will enjoy the 

Elite package, providing a spacious tent with 

a raised bed complete with crisp linen, a 

partitioned en suite washroom and a toilet and 

small verandah area. Chefs provide breakfast 

and a seven-course dinner with unlimited local 

alcoholic beverages. 

n Why we chose it: On the Mahoora 

Elite package, every party has their own 

exclusive jeep for game drives, with a 

naturalist aboard. 


Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; 

we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life. 

JACK KEROUAC, ON THE ROAD 



Ceylon Tea Trails 

Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge 

TEA COUNTRY 

Tea is the UK’s favourite drink and to the 

connoisseur its taste is redolent of the lush green 

tea gardens of Sri Lanka, developed under British 

rule when the island was known as Ceylon. 

Today, Sri Lanka is the world’s fourth 

largest tea producer. The island’s central 

highlands – known as ‘Hill Country’ or ‘Up 

Country’ – are filled with vivid scenes of 

hillsides carpeted with carefully manicured tea 

gardens. These are accompanied by scenes 

of roaring waterfalls mingling with clouds and 

shimmering sunlight shifting and disappearing 

beneath the rising mist. Here too are to be 

found the historic plantation bungalows that 

were homes to the early tea barons. 

Situated over 6,000 feet above sea level, 

the temperature in Hill Country provides a 

beautiful contrast with the often sweltering 

lowlands, varying between 16C to 20C, and 

providing an ideal climate for exploring, your 

adventures taking you from tea plantations to 

temples to ravines and waterfalls. 

Today’s Tea Country centrepiece is Nuwara 

Eliya, overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest 

mountain in Sri Lanka. In colonial days, 

Nuwara Eliya was called Little England, where 

Britons would immerse themselves in leisure 

pastimes like polo, golf and cricket. 

Today, many of the town’s buildings are 

echoes of the past and visitors can wallow in 

the nostalgia of bygone days. Nearby Hatton, 

high up in the Hill Country, is surrounded by 

vast tea estates that carpet the rolling hills 

while to the south-east stands the curious 

pyramidal bulk of Adam’s Peak. 

Sri Lanka has a wonderfully 

evocative railway system. Sample it, 

with a memorable ride from Kandy up into 

the Hill Country, where your chauffeur will 

meet you at the station! 

MADULKELLE TEA 

& ECO LODGE 

Set high in tea country, the Madulkelle 

Tea and Eco Lodge offers revolutionary 

accommodation: 18 secluded lodges made 

of high quality tarpaulin canvas, the same 

material used by renowned safari camps 

in Africa. From your front door is one the 

most breathtaking views imaginable – mist 

covered mountains, lush green valleys, crystal 

streams and even the occasional deer or 

giant squirrel. Add to that top-class facilities 

that include a magnificent pool and organic 

vegetable and herb garden supplying the 

dining room. 

n Why we chose it: After a challenging 

drive, you relax with a pot of tea in your 

tranquil, luxury lodge and realise what a 

heavenly spot this is. 

CEYLON TEA TRAILS 

Sri Lanka’s first Relais & Chateaux resort 

comprises four luxurious colonial tea planters’ 

bungalows, Summerville, Castlereagh, 

Tientsin and Norwood, all connected 

by walking trails through stunning tea 

gardens. Built between 1888 and 1950, the 

bungalows, with 21 exquisite rooms and suites 

in all, offer a taste of gracious living thanks 

to butler service and period furnishings, 

accompanied by gourmet meals. From here, 

you can trek, bike or picnic at spectacular 

locations each day in cool comfort, while the 

resident Tea Planter will show you the tea 

making process at first hand. 

n Why we chose it: A stunning setting, 

impeccable service and memorable food. 

Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and 

things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one 

little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime. 

MARK TWAIN, THE INNOCENTS ABROAD/ROUGHING IT 

13

Jetwing Vil Uyana 

Ulagalla 

THE CULTURAL TRIANGLE 

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle in the northern 

central area of the island, is blessed with such 

astonishing historical and cultural treasures that 

it contains no fewer than seven UNESCO World 

Heritage sites. This was the land which saw the 

forging of Sri Lanka’s early Sinhalese civilisation, 

and the majestic monuments that are still to 

be seen here – often centred around mountain 

outcrops that dominate the surrounding plains – 

are potent symbols of a golden age. 

Once glorious townships, palaces, temples, 

monasteries, hospitals and theatres, all 

intricately carved and modelled out of stone, lay 

abandoned and forgotten for centuries amidst 

the soaring jungles until their rediscovery. 

Perhaps first among these is Anuradhapura, 

the earliest of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, 

dating back to the 4th century BC, which was 

once the greatest metropolis in South Asia, 

before falling into decay for 1,000 years. 

Other sites within the astonishing Cultural 

Triangle include the ruined palaces and temples 

of Polonnaruwa, the second of the ancient 

kingdoms of Sri Lanka, and the Sigiriya Rock 

Fortress, considered one of the wonders of the 

ancient world. Here at the site of the island’s 

former capital, dating back to the 5th century, 

you can witness world-renowned frescoes as 

well as remains of the ingenious fortifications 

that surrounded the Lion Rock, including moats 

once filled with crocodiles. 

And at nearby Dambulla is the best-preserved 

cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, with over 80 

caves, some used by meditating monks, with five 

caves in particular containing Hindu statues and 

paintings dating back centuries. 

From the moment you arrive in Sri 

Lanka, you will be driven around 

in comfort by your chauffeur/guide. 

Knowledgeable, friendly and eager to 

please, he will ensure your travels on this 

wonderful island exactly meet your needs. 

ULAGALLA 

Be treated like royalty at Ulagalla Resort in 

the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura in 

the heart of the ancient cultural triangle and 

birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Once 

the ancestral estate of local nobility, this 

luxury hotel features a 150-year-old mansion 

at its centre, with 20 private ecologically-built 

chalets, each with a private pool or plunge 

pool, across 58 acres of scenic, unspoiled, 

natural paradise filled with bird and animal 

life. As one of the Small Luxury Hotels of 

the World, Ulagalla is truly a unique boutique 

hotel. The cosy Liyawela restaurant provides 

the best of Sri Lankan cuisine, along with 

Eastern and Western dishes. 

n Why we chose it: The chalets are 

spread out providing the ultimate in 

peaceful seclusion in paradise. And to get 

around you can ride a courtesy bicycle or 

just call up a golf buggy! 

JETWING VIL UYANA 

Uniquely situated among reed beds and 

paddy fields in the shadow of the historic 

rock fortress of Sigiriya, Jetwing Vil Uyana 

was described by Harper’s Bazaar magazine 

as the Best Eco Luxury Hotel in Sri Lanka. 

Twenty-nine spacious open structures have 

been built on sturdy stilts above the water, 

each furnished sumptuously to provide 

21st-century amenities. You have a choice 

of four ‘dwelling’ locations : Water, Marsh/ 

Paddy field, Forest and Garden. The Aspara 

restaurant provides fine dining on authentic 

Sri Lankan cuisine with majestic Sigiriya 

looming in the distance. 

n Why we chose it: With deep stone 

baths big enough for two, rainwater 

showers and raised sleeping platforms, 

each ‘dwelling’ is individually designed but 

brings luxury and comfort to the very heart 

of nature. 

The journey of a 

thousand miles begins 

with a single step. 

LAOZI 


The Kandy House 

Ellerton 

KANDY 

Kandy was the last capital of the ancient 

kings of Sri Lanka, hidden away between 

high green hills, at the very heart of the 

island. It defied the Dutch and Portuguese 

invaders for three centuries, the last bastion 

of an ancient kingdom. But, in 1815, it 

finally fell to the British. 

Today Kandy still preserves its unique 

dance, music and architecture, making it 

aristocratic in atmosphere. In fact, the locals 

still see themselves as different (if not perhaps 

a little superior!) to people living elsewhere in 

Sri Lanka. The town enjoys a cooler climate 

being 500m above sea level. There is an urban 

buzz about Kandy, a bustling conglomeration 

of spontaneous street markets, graceful old 

buildings, restaurants and shops, all set around 

the city’s central lake. 

Kandy’s single most important landmark 

is Sri Dalada Maligawa – The Temple of the 

Tooth Relic – the resting place of the Lord 

Buddha’s tooth and therefore revered by 

Buddhists around the world. The present 

temple was built under Kandyan kings back in 

the 17th century and the relic itself is contained 

within seven golden caskets. Pilgrims are only 

allowed to view the containing casket from 

several feet away from the altar. 

Every July or August, Kandy stages 

its ‘festival of the tooth’, a Buddhist 

celebration consisting of fire-dances, 

whip-dances, Kandyan dances and 

colourfully decorated elephants. 

ELLERTON 

A boutique hotel high in the hills above 

Kandy, Ellerton was built for the manager of 

a large tea estate more than 100 years ago 

and retains the character and tranquillity of 

its colonial past. Set in beautiful gardens, 

Ellerton has seven comfortable double 

bedrooms, a spring-fed swimming pool and 

wonderful views. At 2,400ft, it is hot in 

the day, while the nights are relatively cool 

without the stickiness of the coast, nor hill 

country chill. Ellerton deliberately lacks some 

predictable hotel features but compensates 

with a relaxed and informal atmosphere. 

n Why we chose it: English country 

house atmosphere, with great G&Ts and 

excellent curries in open-air dining room 

with fine views across the valleys. 

THE KANDY HOUSE 

The Kandy House is an ancestral manor 

house, built in 1802, and now a boutique 

hotel providing serenity in a lush, tropical 

garden close to Kandy. The restoration 

blends modernised bathrooms with elegant 

antiques and traditional architecture, with 

its elegant arched verandahs. The Kandy 

House has only nine bedrooms, giving guests 

an experience more like staying in a private 

house than in a conventional hotel. The 

stunning infinity pool has views over rice 

paddy fields, while the cuisine is delicious 

European fusion and Sri Lankan. 

n Why we chose it: After the bustle 

of Kandy, here you will find seclusion, 

tranquility and the attentive services of your 

own butler. 


BEACHES 

As if all its other attractions were not enough 

to overwhelm the senses, Sri Lanka is also 

a nirvana for beach lovers. The island is 

endowed with over a thousand miles of 

beautiful golden beaches fringed with coconut 

palms. Whatever your idea of a perfect beach, 

you will find it here. Whether you want to 

witness whales and dolphins at play in the 

Indian Ocean, enjoy the vibes of a relaxed 

beach party, relax to the lapping of the azure 

waters on a virtually deserted arc of golden 

sand, windsurf, scuba dive or snorkel among 

beautiful coral, Sri Lanka has it all. 

Transun has selected just a handful of Sri 

Lanka’s beaches, in the south-west and south 

of the island, where, in our view, the perfect 

sand and crystal waters are fittingly matched 

with hotels we would recommend to you. 

Balapitiya is a small, picturesque village 

with golden soft beaches in the south of the 

Turtle conservation projects can be 

found on a number of Sri Lanka 

beaches. Arriving at around 8.30pm you 

have every chance of witnessing a turtle 

laying her eggs… an experience you will 

always remember. 

island, ideal for those who are looking for the 

‘real’ Sri Lanka, away from the mainstream 

tourist resorts. Hikkaduwa, once Sri Lanka’s 

hippy hang-out is now a thriving resort, with 

excellent surfing, diving and snorkelling, and 

a lively, youthful persona. Unawatuna is the 

most popular beach resort in the island’s 

south, flanked by a beautiful crescent beach 

fringed by coconut palms. And the palm-lined 

bay and picturesque coves of Tangalle are 

a natural treasure, with a lazy town littered 

with gentle reminders of 18th-century Dutch 

colonial days. 

SHINAGAWA BEACH 

Set on a beautiful and secluded stretch of 

Balapitiya beach, complete with rock pools, 

the Shinagawa Beach is a luxury resort of 

contemporary design with modern amenities, 

having only opened in late 2013. The hotel 

has two suites and 24 deluxe rooms, each 

with their own balcony and amazing views. 

The spa offers massage and Ayurveda rituals, 

while the chef’s cuisine fuses Sri Lankan 

curries with Western treats like mixed 

seafood grill and devilled fish burger. There’s 

a stylish pool, a gym and a game of beach 

volleyball is never far away. 

n Why we chose it: A perfect beach, 

amazing sunsets, attentive staff, delicious 

cocktails and cuisine… what’s not to like 


The Frangipani Tree 

Amanwella 

Shinawaga Beach 

Aditya Hotel Resort 

THE FRANGIPANI TREE 

An intimate beach sanctuary with just nine 

exquisitely furnished suites in three villas, 

the Frangipani Tree is located on a long 

stretch of secluded beach at Unawatuna and 

offers sun and sand combined with culinary, 

sensuous and spiritual indulgences. Each of 

the suites has elegant furnishings, including 

a four-poster bed, and stunning ocean views 

from covered terraces and verandahs with 

sunbeds and private dining tables. The 

hotel’s menu features fresh seafood and local 

produce for which its sister hotel, The Fort 

Printers, has received glowing reviews. 

n Why we chose it: Attentive staff, 

intimate atmosphere – a treat for anyone 

who appreciates peace, beauty and nature. 

ADITYA HOTEL RESORT 

Renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s most 

distinctive boutique hotels, the Aditya Hotel 

Resort on Hikkaduwa beach provides discreet 

service, a luxurious environment and an 

exquisite private beachside location. The 

hotel has just 12 suites, all decorated with 

art and antiques and with lavish amenities 

including a private plunge pool. Historic 

Galle and the surf and coral of Hikkaduwa 

are a stone’s throw away. Treatments are 

available in the Garden Spa or in your suite, 

while dining is unconventional: eat when and 

where you like, even on the beach! 

n Why we chose it: Aditya is committed 

to supporting the local environment and 

community which makes your pampering and 

indulgence feel even better! 

AMANWELLA 

Amanwella is situated in a mature coconut 

grove fronting a crescent-shaped beach 

close to the fishing town of Tangalle. All 30 

suites of this contemporary beachfront resort 

feature their own plunge pool and terrace. 

The resort’s architecture pays homage to Sri 

Lanka’s renowned architect Geoffrey Bawas, 

who brought together an appreciation of 

Western humanist architectural tradition with 

the lifestyle and culture of his own country. 

The contemporary suites all have their own 

private plunge pool, while the restaurant, 

offering Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, 

provides stunning views. 

n Why we chose it: Should you tire of 

the gorgeous beach and shady palms, the 

Amanwella’s stunning 47m pool and terrace 

provides equally excellent loungers and service. 

19

WHALE WATCHING 

If you are visiting Sri Lanka, don’t miss 

the best opportunity you will ever have for 

a close encounter with the greatest living 

creature in the world. 

Sri Lanka is considered the planet’s best 

place for watching blue whales, and you can 

set off in search of these mighty creatures 

from Mirissa, close to your beach hotel on the 

island’s south coast, on a memorable boat trip. 

During the season, from November until 

mid-April, the success rate for encountering 

whales on dedicated trips off Sri Lanka is 

around 90 per cent, so your chances of 

getting close to a blue whale are very high. 

Pause for a moment to think how privileged 

you will be. This is the largest animal to live 

on the planet, bigger than any dinosaur. 

The tongue of a blue whale alone can 

weigh as much as an elephant. These 

magnificent marine mammals are the largest 

animals ever known to have lived on Earth, 

weighing upwards of 200 tons. 

The blue whale was considered to be one 

of the hardest mammals to see in the world. 

But thanks to their migration route bringing 

them via Sri Lanka where they linger to 

feed on the abundant krill, you have every 

chance of seeing them breaching, fluking, 

blowing and surface rolling in waters close 

to your boat. 

During your trip there is also a strong 

chance of encountering sperm whales, the 

largest toothed carnivores on the planet. 

Sperm whales are the deepest divers in the 

animal kingdom, with depths recorded of up 

to three kilometres. Also commonly seen are 

spinning dolphins, which are seen to literally 

spin through the air as they leap from the 

ocean’s surface. 

With Transun, you can set out for a 

half-day or full day whale watching trip 

aboard a purpose-built whale watching 

vessel accommodating around 20-30 

people, with a specialist guide on board. 

Light refreshments are provided on the 

half-day trip, whole lunch is included on the 

full-day voyage. Should you require a 

private whale-watching trip as part of your 

tailor-made holiday with Transun, this too 

can be arranged. 


n CALL 01865 566785 TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR SRI LANKA TRAVEL EXPERTS OR VISIT WWW.TRANSUN.CO.UK/SRI-LANKAA 

The Amangalla

The Amangalla 

The Fort Printers 

GALLE 

Located in the south-western tip of Sri Lanka, 

the city of Galle is a living time capsule, 

home to the largest occupied fort in Asia. 

The 36-hectare fort was built by the Dutch in 

the 17th century, to help them defend their 

lucrative trade in spices and other precious 

resources during the heydays of Empire. The 

fort’s massive walls enclose a densely packed 

collection of Dutch colonial buildings. And 

so rich is this area in architectural interest, 

the Fort is a designated UNESCO Heritage 

Site. Visitors can bask in the picturesque 

surroundings and the fascinating history 

while walking through the narrow, cobbled 

streets, relish a meal from one of the many 

tempting restaurants within the Fort area or 

perhaps enjoy the cool sea breeze beneath the 

landmark lighthouse. 

Today, Galle has become a magnet for 

a community of creatively-minded people 

and visitors can browse among boutique 

shops, hotels and cafes run by artists, writers, 

photographers and designers. So great is 

the attraction of this special place to the 

artistically-minded, a third of the houses in the 

Fort area are owned by foreigners. 

If you can drag yourself away from all that 

history, architecture and creativity, there are 

other attractions nearby, such as a boat ride 

in the Koggala lagoon or a visit to one of the 

artificial turtle hatcheries along the coastline 

surrounding the city. 

Both blue whales and sperm whales 

feed just off the southern tip of Sri 

Lanka from December to April. We can 

organise a memorable whale watching trip 

for your party – and sightings are frequent! 

THE FORT PRINTERS 

An 18th-century mansion, situated within 

Galle’s historic fort area, restored as an 

elegant small private hotel/villa, with five 

opulent suites offering understated elegance 

and personal service in an intimate, friendly 

atmosphere. Once used as a printing house, 

the villa now has a slim pool and roomy 

interiors filled with Asian antiques, Tibetan 

carpets and vibrant Thai silks. The mainstay 

of the vibrant menu is fresh seafood and 

organic local produce. Guests can also 

luxuriate in the sun at The Frangipani Tree, a 

sister sanctuary on a secluded cove of nearby 

Thalpe beach. 

n Why we chose it: An intimate 

experience in a historic location, far removed 

from the larger resort atmosphere. 

THE AMANGALLA 

With a history dating back to the early Dutch 

colonial period, the Amangalla is located at 

the heart of Galle’s historic fort, offering a 

memorable and stylish stay in architectural 

splendour, surrounded by antiques, old prints, 

polished aged floors, crisp white linen and 

rich mahogany, with warm and welcoming 

staff. With all the style and panache of an 

Aman resort, the Amangalla offers a large 

courtyard swimming pool, a spa offering a 

wide range of relaxation and treatments, a 

tranquil library and a dining room providing 

a fine combination of Sri Lankan curries and 

home-cooked dishes. 

n Why we chose it: Quirky colonial 

grandeur combined with service that is 

discreet, attentive and sophisticated. 

The world is a book and 

those who do not travel 

read only one page. 

AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO 

23


Tintagel Colombo 

The Wallawwa 

COLOMBO/AIRPORT STOPOVER 

Sri Lanka has so much to offer. But before or 

after a long flight from the UK the first thing 

you need is an oasis of calm and tranquility. 

And with our two carefully chosen hotels 

close to the international airport, the priority 

is just that. Relax and enjoy the unadulterated 

pleasure of being taken care of in style. 

Whether you are excitedly anticipating the 

pleasures to come, or taking the time to relive 

the many highlights of a memorable holiday, 

our airport oases will provide the perfect 

setting. And with bustling Colombo right 

outside, there is plenty to divert you should 

you need a break from all that cossetting. 

THE WALLAWWA 

An old colonial manor house, The Wallawwa 

has been, lovingly restored to provide 17 

beautifully furnished bedrooms and suites. 

Nestled amongst three acres of magnificent 

manicured gardens, this luxury boutique hotel 

is just 15 minutes from the airport, making 

it a rejuvenating and enriching stopover 

after arriving or at the end of your holiday. 

Take a break from sightseeing, sit back and 

indulge in sumptuous cuisine, revitalising spa 

treatments, a leisurely swim and a superb 

night’s sleep. 

n Why we chose it: The perfect 

introduction to Sri Lanka. The spa is 

among the best we’ve seen and the pool 

is stunning. 

TINTAGEL COLOMBO 

Tintagel Colombo is unique: Situated 

in Colombo’s elite Cinnamon Gardens 

neighbourhood, it is a stunning heritage 

building, previously home to Sri Lankan 

prime ministers, offering 10 very tastefully 

designed suites. The Prince of Wales and 

Duchess of Cornwall stayed here in 2013 

during the Commonwealth Heads of 

Government meeting. The owner also owns 

Paradise Road, Colombo’s renowned home 

decor store. Guests get 10 per cent store 

discount and a free tuk-tuk ride there. A 

stylish airport stopover option. 

n Why we chose it: Central location in 

lively Colombo, within walking distance to 

Odel fashion store, with tuk-tuks and taxis 

easy to obtain. 

25

n CALL 01865 566785 TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR SRI LANKA TRAVEL EXPERTS OR VISIT WWW.TRANSUN.CO.UK/SRI-LANKAA 

Maya

Kahanda Kanda 

Kahanda Kanda 

Maya 

LIMITED EDITION 

Some accommodation simply defies definition 

and description. Unique, special, and 

courageously individual, they provide a holiday 

sanctuary unlike anything else, anywhere. 

Such properties are few and far between but 

in Sri Lanka, we are pleased to reveal, we 

have found two such havens, very special 

places that merit our Limited Edition accolade. 

Such sumptuous living, such attention to 

detail, comes at a cost, of course. But if you 

want to add a memorable night or two at 

one of these exceptional oases, we cannot 

recommend them enough! 

MAYA 

A 19th-century Sri Lankan manor house, 

built by one of Ceylon’s ruling elite, and 

brought back to life by interior designer Niki 

Fairchild. This five-suite villa now blends 

charm and heritage with contemporary 

design. Set in a two-acre garden with trees 

as old as the house, with a 20m L-shaped 

pool offering views to the rice paddy fields 

beyond. Situated in a rural village near 

Tangalle in the island’s lush southern interior, 

the Maya offers striking indoor and outdoor 

dining areas, with delightful Sri Lankan 

fusion cuisine from the resident chef. 

n Why we chose it: Enjoy evening 

cocktails watching wild peacocks dance at 

this slice of heaven on earth. 

KAHANDA KANDA 

One of southern Sri Lanka’s most stylish 

boutique hotels, offering the luxuries of a 

private villa combined with five-star service. 

Nine individual suites with breathtaking 

views of palm-fringed jungle and the KK tea 

estate, provide stylish, spacious interiors. 

Overlooking Kogalla Lake near Galle, KK 

has a spa nestling amid the tea plantation, a 

20m infinity pool, a gym, Living Pavilion and 

tropical garden. Fruits, vegetables and herbs 

are grown on the estate, supplemented with 

fresh local produce to create simple, fusion 

dishes and classic Sri Lankan curries. 

n Why we chose it: Elegant KK is ideally 

placed to sample the diverse delights the 

island has to offer. 

27

The traveller sees what he sees. The 

tourist sees what he has come to see. 

G.K. CHESTERTON 


THE CHOICE 

IS ALL YOURS... 

The four itineraries on this page are 

designed to give you just a flavour of what is 

possible. But as Transun provides you with 

an expert tailor-made travel service, your 

itinerary can be designed specifically to suit 

your requirements. 

Remember, from the moment you are met 

at Colombo airport, you will have the services 

of your own chauffeur/guide throughout your 

Sri Lanka stay. All journeys detailed in your 

personal itinerary will be included, while your 

knowledgeable chauffeur/guide will also be 

available to drive you to additional locations, 

by separate agreement. 

Just call one of our Sri Lanka specialists 

to learn how we can tailor your perfect Sri 

Lanka holiday. 

01865 566785 

COLOMBO 

GALLE 

UNAWATUNA 

TEA & BEACHES 

(SEVEN NIGHTS) 

NUWARA ELIYA 

From £1,699 per person, 

based on two sharing, 

including international flights 

Day 1 

Day 2 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Fly overnight from the UK 

to Colombo 

Your chauffeur/guide will meet 

you and drive you to your hotel in 

Tea Country where you will spend 

two nights. 

Visit to tea factory. Rest of day 

at leisure. 

Drive to your beach hotel for a few 

days’ relaxation. 

Drive to Galle, sunset walking tour 

and overnight stay. 

Early morning transfer followed by 

a flight to the UK. 

A man of ordinary talent will 

always be ordinary, whether 

he travels or not; but a man 

of superior talent will go to 

pieces if he remains forever 

in the same place... 

WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART 


ANURADHAPURA 

SIGIRIYA 

DAMBALLA 

KANDY 

COLOMBO 

LIMITED 

EDITION 

NUWARA ELIYA 

YALA 

NATIONAL PARK 

COLOMBO 

LIMITED 

EDITION 

NUWARA ELIYA 

UDA WALAWE 

NATIONAL 

PARK YALA 

NATIONAL PARK 

COLOMBO 

LIMITED 

EDITION 

NUWARA ELIYA 

UDA WALAWE 

NATIONAL 

PARK YALA 

NATIONAL PARK 

GALLE 

UNAWATUNA 

GALLE 

UNAWATUNA 

GALLE 

UNAWATUNA 

HILLS & THRILLS 

(TEN NIGHTS) 




SUN & SAFARI 

(14 NIGHTS) 




LEOPARDS & LEISURE 

(21 NIGHTS) 




Day 1 


to Colombo 

Day 1 


to Colombo 

Day 1 


to Colombo 

Day 2 




two nights. 

Day 2 




two nights. 

Day 2 

Your chauffeur/guide will meet you 

and drive you to your hotel in the 

Cultural Triangle where you will 

spend two nights. 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 6 

Day 7 


at leisure. 

Drive to your Limited Edition 

accommodation, where you will 


Drive to Yala National Park 

and overnight. 



Day 10 Drive to Galle, sunset walking tour 


Day 11 Early morning transfer followed by 

a flight to the UK. 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 7 

Day 8 


at leisure. 

Drive to Uda Walawe National 

Park and overnight. 




Drive to Yala National Park 

and overnight. 



Day 13 Drive to Galle, sunset walking tour 


Day 14 Drive to Colombo/your airport 

stopover and relax. 

Day 15 Morning transfer followed by a 

flight to the UK. 

Day 3 

Day 4 

Day 5 

Day 6 

Day 7 

Day 8 

Visit Sigiriya and Dambulla. 

Drive to Kandy and overnight. 

Drive to Tea Country where you 

will spend two nights. 


at leisure. 

Drive to Uda Walawe National 

Park and overnight. 



spend three nights. 

Day 11 Drive to Yala National Park and 

overnight. 

Day 12 Drive to your beach hotel for a few 


Day 19 Drive to Galle where you will 

spend two nights, including sunset 

walking tour. 

Day 21 Drive to Colombo/your airport 

stopover and relax. 

Please note: For more details of our Sri Lanka programme as well as FAQs and our 

terms and conditions, please visit our website transun.co.uk 

Day 22 Morning transfer followed by a 

flight to the UK. 

31

1A IFFLEY ROAD, OXFORD, OX4 1AS 

CALL 01865 566785 EMAIL HOLIDAYS@TRANSUN.CO.UK 

VISIT WWW.TRANSUN.CO.UK/SRI-LANKA 

PUBLISHED: JULY 2014

SRI LANKA

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