Cultural Journey

Cultural Journey

Embark on a captivating leisure journey through the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, where ancient history and cultural treasures await. Explore the mesmerizing temples, ruins, and stupas in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy with the expert guidance of a local guide, unlocking the mysteries of this island’s rich heritage.

Tour Highlights

  • Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle – Explore the temples, ruins and stupas of Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy under the expert guidance of your local guide.
  • Yala National Park – Look out for crocodiles, elephants, monkeys and the ever-present leopard under the cover of darkness.
  • Nuwara Eliya – Discover the secrets of tea production with a visit to a tea plantation and factory
  • Galle – Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial city

Included

  • Breakfast and dinner daily
  • 13 nights 4-5 star hotels or heritage properties in a double room
  • All entrance fees and national park fees according to the program
  • Escorted by an English-speaking professional chauffeur guide
  • Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 14
  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles

Not Included

  • International flights and visa
  • Meals and drinks not mentioned
  • Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$3-6 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture
  • Recommended attractions not included in the itinerary
  • Personal

Others

  • Please be aware that there is no guarantee of the animal sightings reported for this trip. These are close-up encounters with wild, free-ranging animals whose actions are unpredictable. Should there be no sighting, which is improbable, there will be no reimbursement for the airfare. However, to maximize the odds of being spotted, our local partners and I make use of all of our expertise and experience.
  • If you would like to upgrade your room or prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, we will be happy to arrange it for you.
  • Please note that you may need to get up early at times and that hot weather are to be expected.
  • The national parks’ roadways can be incredibly uneven at times, with numerous washed-out pits and bumps. A cushioned or air-filled seat cushion could be advised if you have disc issues.
Day 1 Negombo

Our professional representative will greet you at the Bandaranaike International Airport and transport you to your hotel in the neighboring Negombo. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil spot to relax, enjoy a swim, or witness the vibrant activity of the local fishermen, Negombo’s beaches are good places to relax.


Day 2 Fish Market – Anuradhapura

Today, get up early and visit the fish market in Negombo. The market is best visited in the morning, when your guide will help you make your way through the orderly maze of sellers offering seafood specialties including crabs, lobsters, and squid.

After that, we driver to Anuradhapura. The city boasts a vast complex of ancient monuments, including stupas, monasteries, palaces, and other structures that date back to a bygone era. Among its most famous attractions are the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest historically documented tree in the world, and the Ruwanwelisaya stupa, an imposing structure that has become an iconic symbol of the city.


Day 3 Anuradhapura – Polonnaruwa

Today we continue to explore Anuradhapura. It was the center of Sri Lankan civilization for over a millennium, from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD. The city is renowned for its monumental dagobas (stupas), ancient monasteries, reservoirs, and a rich heritage that reflects the glorious history of the island. One of the most significant landmarks in Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi.

In the afternoon, our tour of Polonnaruwa city begins. Visiting Polonnaruwa is like stepping into a living museum, where history, art, and culture blend seamlessly to create a captivating and educational experience.


Day 4 Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya

After breakfast, head to Polonnaruwa to continue your cultural exploration. It served as the second capital of Sri Lanka, following the decline of Anuradhapura. Its history dates back to the 11th century when it was the royal seat of several Sri Lankan kings. the Gal Vihara, which features four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. These sculptures are considered some of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese rock art.

Head to Sigiriya, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its history dates back to the 5th century when it was transformed into a royal citadel by King Kasyapa. One of the most exhilarating aspects of visiting Sigiriya is the ascent to the summit. A series of steep steps and staircases take you on a journey through beautifully landscaped gardens, ancient frescoes, and the famed Lion Gate, which was once adorned by a massive lion statue. As you ascend, you’ll encounter the Mirror Wall, a polished surface that was once so smooth and reflective that it was used by the king’s courtiers. The Sigiriya Frescoes, on the western face of the rock, feature stunning depictions of beautiful maidens. Its terraced gardens are a marvel of ancient landscaping and hydrological engineering.


Day 5 Dambulla Cave Temple – Matale spice garden – Kandy

The temple complex is located atop a massive rock hill, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Dambulla boasts a complex of five stunning cave temples, each adorned with intricate paintings, statues, and religious significance. These caves have been places of worship and meditation for over two millennia, making them one of the most well-preserved cave temple complexes in Asia. Within the cave chambers, you’ll encounter a collection of over 150 intricately carved statues of Lord Buddha in various postures.

You’ll make a stop in the town of Matale along the way to explore a local spice garden and discover the significance of spices to Sri Lanka’s cultural legacy. After that, we continue to Kandy, where you have a free evening to explore.


Day 6 The Royal Botanic Gardens – Temple of the Tooth Relic

This morning your guide will take you around the Royal Botanic Gardens, which is in Peradeniya, situated just outside Kandy, is a haven of exotic flora, enchanting landscapes, and colorful orchid collections. It’s a delightful place to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

After that, we will visit Temple of the Tooth Relic. This splendid temple houses one of the most sacred relics in Buddhism, a tooth relic believed to belong to Lord Buddha. The relic has a storied history, with legends of its journey from India to Sri Lanka. One of the most famous and spectacular events associated with the temple is the annual Esala Perahera, or the Kandy Perahera. This grand procession features beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, fire dancers, and a ceremonial casket carrying the sacred tooth relic. It is a cultural extravaganza


Day 7 Nuwara Eliya

You depart from Kandy and travel to Nuwara Eliya by morning train. It is often referred to as “Little England,” this enchanting town is renowned for its stunning landscapes and a rich tapestry of natural beauty, making it an idyllic retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and exploration. Situated at an elevation of 1,868 meters above sea level, Nuwara Eliya boasts a refreshing and cool climate, a stark contrast to the island’s tropical warmth. The lush tea plantations that carpet the hills create a serene atmosphere, making this town a delightful escape from the coastal heat.

Recommended attractions: the Old Post Office, St. Xavier’s Church, Nuwara Eliya offers activities like golf, horseback riding, and boat rides on Lake Gregory.


Day 8 Tea Estates

Nuwara Eliya is renowned as the “Tea Capital” of Sri Lanka, home to some of the world’s finest tea estates. A visit to a tea plantation and factory is a must-do experience, where you can witness the art of tea production and enjoy a refreshing cup of the world-famous Ceylon tea. The colonial-era architecture and beautifully manicured gardens add an air of historic elegance to Nuwara Eliya.


Day 9 Ella Gap – Tissamaharama

Today you will stop in Ella, a charming little village in the hills, en route. This is the location of Ella Nine Arch, which offers stunning views over the plain.

After enjoy Ella’s scenery, Tissamaharama is our next destination.


Day 10 Yala National Park

Today you will experience safari in Yala National Park, which is renowned for being home to the highest population density of leopards in the world. These enigmatic big cats roam freely amidst the park’s diverse landscapes, making it a premier destination for leopard sightings. For wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, Yala is a treasure trove of incredible moments. As you venture through its diverse ecosystems, you’ll encounter elephants, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boar, along with a wide variety of bird species. This park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous avian species to be spotted. The park’s terrain offers an incredible mix of lush forests, serene lakes, and expansive grasslands.


Day 11 Kataragama Temple – Galle

You have the choice to visit Kataragama Temple in the morning to see the temple of Kataragama Deviyo, the local deity. Later on, you make your way to Galle, a stunning seaside city located on Sri Lanka’s southernmost tip. After checking into your accommodation, have a walking tour of the city—which is regarded as Sri Lanka’s best-preserved colonial city—with your guide. The city’s center is a fort constructed by the Dutch that is encircled by the sea on three sides. The streets are lined with historic churches and mosques, museums, and shops.


Day 12 Galle

This morning, a tour guide will accompany you to the farmers’ market to introduce you to the fresh ingredients for Sri Lanka’s tasty and fragrant recipes.

The afternoon is at your leisure. 

Recommended Attractions: Galle Fort, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Beaches


Day 13 Colombo

Bid farewell to Galle and make your way to Colombo, the dynamic city of Sri Lanka. Take a walking tour with your guide through the busy streets of Colombo Fort in the afternoon. Witness merchants and customers going about their business as you take in the sights, sounds, and scents of Colombo at the Pettah Fruit and Vegetable Market. See the magnificent Red Mosque, which is visible from all across the city thanks to its imposing minarets. Further exploration will reveal buildings with British and Dutch influences, a holdover from the city’s colonial past.


Day 14 Departure

We say a kind goodbye and make arrangements for a transfer to the airport so you may leave in time for your next journey after breakfast.


Trip Type

Group Tours

Starts

Negombo

Ends

Colombo

Hotel Rating

4-5 star & heritage hotels

Arr. Transfer

Yes

Dep. Transfer

Yes

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 25

Tour Guide

Yes – escorted by a tour guide

Meals

Breakfast & Lunch/Dinner: 13

Countries

Sri Lanka

Minimum Age

12 years, accompanied by an adult.