Explore the rich heritage of the island nation by visiting the Cultural Triangle including the Sacred Cities of Anuradhapura and Kandy along with the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. Deep dive into the country’s ties to Buddhism, lose yourself in stories of kings and thrones, taste the tea plucked in lush hills, observe gems crafted by expert hands, stroll along golden beaches and witness breathtaking sunsets, take scenic train rides and engage in many more thrilling adventures.
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport where you will be welcomed by a Ceylon Trailblazer representative. Then, begin the journey to the Sacred City of Anuradhapura.
In the evening, visit Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, the southern branch of the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi in India, under which Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is the oldest known living tree planted by humankind in the world.
Stay overnight in Anuradhapura.
After breakfast, explore the ancient ruins of royal palaces, temples and more in the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, the very first kingdom of Sri Lanka, which stood strong for 14 centuries (437 BC–1017 AD).
Visit Ranmasu Uyana which holds within it Sakwala Chakraya – a Stargate. The symbols carved on the rock are said to be a code that opens the stargate and allows visitors to travel from this world to others in the universe. Directly opposite the star map, are four stone seats for the travelers to strap into before making the journey of their lives.
The stargate of Anuradhapura has been noted to have nearly identical shapes and symbols to those found at Abu Ghurab in Egypt and La Puerta de Hayu Marka in Peru.
Learn more by following the link below.
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210502-the-unsolved-mystery-of-sri-lankas-stargate
After navigating the wonders of Anuradhapura, transfer to Sigiriya and spend the night. On the way to Sigiriya, make a quick stop at the Avukana Buddha Statue which stands at an outstanding height of 40 feet.
Accommodation: Resort
After a hearty breakfast, make your way to Sigiriya, the 5th-century rock citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the time of King Kasyapa. This magnificent fortress embodies one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Sri Lankan urban planning and irrigation. Its rock carvings (specially the gigantic section of what remains of the ‘Lion Paws’) and beautiful frescos have become some of the most iconic showcases of national artistic heritage.
Once you’ve had your fill of Sigiriya, hop onto a bullock cart and take a tour of Sigiriya village. Get an inside look into the daily happenings of a local village and many other practices unique to Sri Lankan culture.
Following lunch, visit the sacred Dambulla Rock Cave Temple which has been a focal point for many rulers since the 1st century B.C. with its striking wall paintings and statues of Lord Buddha inside the Golden Temple.
In the evening, embark on a mini-safari of the Minneriya National Park, where close to 200 elephants roam freely.
Stay overnight in Habarana.
After an early breakfast, head to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, the kingdom that ruled the country from 1070 to 1232, and even expanded overseas during the reign of Parakramabahu the Great.
Witness ancient Sri Lankan sculpting and rock carvings by visiting Gal Vihara which showcases world-renowned statues of the Buddha: a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure, a standing figure, and a reclining figure.
Return to Habarana to spend the night.
Upon having breakfast, head to Mathale and explore the world-famous spice industry of Sri Lanka by taking a tour of a spice garden. Inhale exotic aromas that will rejuvenate your senses, learn about the production process, and how these spices are being used in concocting Ayurvedic medicine.
Then, on your way to Kandy, visit a porcelain factory and observe the way in which those delicate items are created.
Have a scrumptious lunch and make your way to the hotel in Kandy for some rest. Then, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses the most important Buddhist artefact in Sri Lanka: historically, it has played an important role in local politics due to the belief that whoever holds the relic is responsible for the governance of the country. Upon entering the temple, watch a cultural show before proceeding to navigate the hallowed halls.
Stay overnight in Kandy.
Have breakfast and begin your Kandy city tour. Go for a stroll at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, revered across South Asia for its luscious and carefully tended greenery. Spanning 147 acres, its origin dates back to 1371 AD.
Then, head to a wood carving factory to witness some amazing Sri Lankan craftsmanship.
Following lunch, enhance your knowledge and appreciation of gems and jewellery by visiting a local factory. Did you know the famous blue sapphire at the heart of the engagement ring worn by the Duchess of Cambridge came from Sri Lanka 35 years ago? Prince William presented this ring to Kate Middleton in remembrance of his mother, Princess Diana who wore it as her engagement ring too.
Afterwards, make your way to Nuwara Eliya, a delightful getaway from the tropical heat of the coastline. Pure mountain air, scenic vistas, majestic waterfalls, and the Victoria Golf Course (one of the finest golf courses in the whole of South Asia) await you. On the way, halt briefly and take a tour of a Sri Lankan tea factory – known to produce the best tea in the world!
Stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
After having breakfast, head to Nanu-Oya Railway station to catch the train to Ella: the most scenic ride you’ll ever take! On the way to the station, make a stop at a tea plantation by the side of the road and take in the magnificent view of the hill country.
Then, meet your tour director at the Ella railway station and head to the hotel for a scrumptious lunch. Enjoy a well-earned break from the road and an evening at your hotel.
A charming town surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, Ella is a great place for adventurous souls, offering many popular spots to hike or trek: summit Mini Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock to witness a stunning sunrise, then visit the architectural wonder that is the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and see a train pass which is always a delight.
After a filling lunch, head to Tissamaharama, making a stop along the way to view Ravana Falls.
Stay overnight in Tissamaharama.
Note: If you’d like to experience both Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak or if you want to add zip-lining and other activities to this tour, we encourage you to consider an extra night in Ella.
Have a hearty breakfast and head to Yala National Park for the safari of a lifetime: there’s a great chance you’ll spot a leopard since this park is known to be home to many! You may also spot large numbers of elephants, sloth bears, deer, and cheeky old-world monkeys endemic to Sri Lanka.
After lunch, transfer to a hotel in Mirissa and rest by the beach in the evening.
Wake up early and set sail with professionals, to witness pods of whales and dolphins frolicking in the heart of the ocean. Ensure you have your camera ready, as you’re about to embark on a voyage that will one-day become a treasured memory. Depending on the day, you’ll also be able to enjoy sightings of manta rays, sharks, flying fish and many more forms of ocean life.
After your exciting expedition, return to town and relax at one of the many beachside cafes, restaurants or luxurious hotels and sample the sensational local dishes. You will also find an active nightlife in the town offering plenty of fun once the sun sets.
Have breakfast by the beach and begin the journey to Galle. You can visit a turtle hatchery on the way too. In Galle, the Dutch Fort is a must-see. Originally built by the Portuguese and conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century, today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll along the paved roads, visit a museum, peruse some jewellery and other trinkets, grab some gelato at a cafe or restaurant, take in the view of the ocean from the ramparts… there’s something for everyone!
After lunch, transfer and stay overnight in Colombo.
After breakfast, proceed to the bustling heart of Colombo – Sri Lanka’s commercial capital – for some last-minute shopping. But, don’t forget to look around you in the rush and see what makes the city so unique!
It is a true metropolis where colonial buildings and places of worship exist alongside towering skyscrapers. Browse at department stores or exclusive outlets featuring local designers. Enjoy a meal at a fusion cafe or restaurant. Head towards Pettah and observe the inner workings of a local marketplace. Visit the Dutch Hospital Complex and listen to live music in the evening. Conclude your stay by experiencing Colombo’s dynamic nightlife.
Stay overnight in Colombo.
Have a local breakfast at the hotel and transfer to the Airport for departure, after what we trust was a memorable visit to this paradise isle we call home!
Bonus: you can customize this tour to match your needs. Get in touch with us and add any activities or destinations!
John Doe
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