Tast of Pearl
OVERVIEW
The holiday covers off-the-beaten track Puttalam District, the sites of the cultural triangle as well as beach time in Trincommalee and the central hills near Kithugalla.
The weather is perfect for this holiday when the rest of the country is being hit by the south western monsoon during the months of May to July. While the beaches in the south and west coasts are hit by frequent rain and rough seas during this time, Trincomalee is generally bathed in sunshine, with great snorkelling and diving opportunities in the calm seas just off shore. The weather remains great for this tour right through to October.
It’s not just about the beach though. The Puttalam District is not often visited by tourists, but it’s a fascinating region, with interesting historical sites, fantastic bird and wildlife and a gentle pace of rural life. Horathapola and The Mudhouse are your bases here and while one is old fashioned luxury and the other ‘back to basics’ eco chic, both are wonderfully relaxing and give a unique insight into Sri Lanka.
We’ve included a few days of site-seeing in Sri Lanka’s famous cultural triangle – Sigirya, Polonaruwa and an elephant safari to see the famous ‘gathering of the elephants which takes place from July to September.
Then it’s a few days relaxing on Upaveli Beach Trincomalee, gleaming white sands in the old historical port.
Finally, back towards Colombo, via a few days in the hills – yet more contrasting scenery and a peaceful renovated colonial bungalow provides the setting.

Currency

Healthcare
Avoid drinking tap water and taking ice in drinks. Stick to bottled water (or boiled/ UV treated water available at the hotel) and ensure that the seal is opened by you/in your presence. Aerated waters (bottled soft drinks) are fine.
Eat moderately for the first few days. Allow your system to get used to the changes. Sri Lankan standard cuisine is spicy and it is advised to approach curries with caution. Yoghurt is advisable for weak constitutions or after a spicy food.
We recommend you carry with you a small supply of basic health care medication such as travel sickness tablets, anti-diarrhoea tablets, antacids for indigestion, insect repellent, sun creams and selected antibiotics after discussion with your doctor. Although most of these items are available in Sri Lanka, the security provided by brands one is used to, is reassuring.
We strongly recommend that all travellers are properly insured for the holiday. While taking insurance.

Clothing
Sri Lanka has an even, tropical climate with temperatures of around 29ºC throughout the year. Upland areas like Nuwara Eliya can be cool in January and February and some warm clothing is recommended. During the day it is best to wear light, comfortable cottons with a pair of good ventilated walking shoes. Sri Lanka has monsoons during May to July and October to November, rainwear is recommended. Please note, however occasional rain is not uncommon even in the drier months. For the sightseeing sessions you may find a good pair of sunglasses and a sun-hat handy. At some of the monuments/temples, it is advisable to avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts. You may also be asked to remove your shoes and hat. Most hotels, including the more exclusive ones, do not insist on formal wear in restaurants and smart casuals are acceptable.

Airports
For reasons of security you may be asked to remove batteries from your camera. Most airlines do not permit the carrying of sharp objects in the cabin and items like scissors, nail cutters, pen knives, etc., are best carried in the checked-in baggage. Batteries and any sharp objects, if asked to be surrendered, are seldom returned back.


Shopping
Sri Lanka provides splendid opportunities for the shopper especially for gemstones and handicrafts. If asked, our local agents will advise on where best to buy particular items.
When purchasing an expensive item, always check the level of duty payable in the UK on your import. Please remember Customs Duty and VAT is payable on all goods above the value of £340 per person, even if an item is exempt from other import duties. Please note that we, or any of our associate offices, are not responsible for any shopping and related problems, although we assure you of any help that we can provide.

Voltage
The electric voltage in Sri Lanka is 220 volts. Most English electric appliances work well in Sri Lanka but a universal adapter is needed.


Others
If you encounter any problem please have faith in our local associates and bring it to their attention.




All the foreign passport holders require to have a visa prior to enter the country. Please follow the link for details and online process of Visa. http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/

Above all, retain your sense of humour.