Following the relaxation of the FCO advice on travelling to Sri Lanka new areas of the island have opened up to UK visitors. The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau are organising a press trip visiting two areas now accessible - Yala National Park, home to the world�s largest density of leopard or the dramatic East Coast and the historic port of Trincomalee.

The trip will also include an opportunity to discover why Sri Lanka continues to remain a popular Indian Ocean destination due to its diverse range of unspoilt beaches, spa havens together with some of the most spectacular cultural and historic sites in the world.

Itinerary One will start in Kandy home to the Temple of the Tooth. The next day after visiting the Pinawella Elephant Orphanage, head north towards the famous cultural triangle visiting the cave temples of Dambulla. After a climb to the top of the imperious Sigiriya Rock, continue to the undiscovered port of Trincomalee. Home to the Seven Hot Springs known for their healing properties, it�s also the world deepest natural harbour and has played a major role in the maritime and colonial history of Sri Lanka. The nearby beaches have perfect shallow water for novice snorkelers and divers. The trip will return to Colombo via the ancient ruined city of Polunnaruwa.

Itinerary Two will also start in Kandy, and continue to the south west of the island. The tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya are a piece of preserved colonial history, enroute to Sri Lanka�s premier eco tourism destination, Yala National Park. Home to the highest density of leopards, wildlife also include sloth bears and an array of birdlife, making Yala a wildlife haven. After visiting the surfing paradise of Arugam Bay, the return journey to Colombo will take in the historic Dutch fort of Galle and the beaches of the south west coast.

RSVP:

Please respond as soon as possible with firm commission details and indicating which itinerary you prefer to julia@representationplus.co.uk