Tropical Ceylon: Experience Culture, Wildlife, and Nature in Sri Lanka's Heritage Cities

Immerse yourself in the rich culture, wildlife, and natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s heritage cities. Explore Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and Colombo, and experience the breathtaking landscapes of Nuwara Eliya. Go on a thrilling safari in Minneriya and unwind at Galle Face Green. Your dream vacation awaits!

Duration: 8 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

Airport > Sigiriya

Dambulla - Meet your guide at the designated pickup location and proceed to Dambulla.

Dambulla Cave Temple - Explore the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. Admire the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Observe the numerous figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King, and the Great New Monastery. Don’t miss the giant golden Buddha statue located just outside the cave complex.

Sigiriya > Polonnaruwa > Minneriya > Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa - Discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the second major capital of Sri Lanka. Wander through the ruins of this city that thrived between the 10th and 13th centuries AD.

Gal Vihara - View significant monuments such as Gal Vihara.

Polonnaruwa Vatadage - Explore the Vatadage.

Lankatilaka Temple - Visit the Lotus Bath, Lankatilaka Temple, and the statue of King Parakramabahu, whose reign marked the golden age of Polonnaruwa. Learn more about Sri Lanka’s ancient history.

Minneriya National Park - Get ready to “Get wild” with a three-and-a-half-hour safari through Minneriya National Park. Witness over 150 elephants gathering during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which occurs in the dry season between May and October. Besides elephants, you may also spot various mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in the scrublands, forests, and other areas.

Sigiriya > Kandy

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - Climb the 5th-century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where King Kasyapa once ruled. Enter through the lion’s paws, fitting for its name, ‘the Lion Rock.’ Marvel at the beautiful, unfading murals that have made Sigiriya famous. Ascend the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-functioning cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace and experience a sense of times long past.

Euphoria Spice and Herbal - Located 12 km from Matale (the spice capital of Sri Lanka), this place is enriched with herb and spice groves and plants, with fragrant greenery shaded by tropical trees that enhance the unique aroma of each spice and herb. Enjoy a complimentary massage as well.

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show - Experience the renowned Cultural Dance Show at a stadium in Kandy, featuring captivating performances with fire and showcasing Sri Lankan culture.

Kandy > Nuwara Eliya

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 16th century to venerate and protect Lord Buddha’s sacred tooth. Stroll through the beautifully adorned passageways and elaborately painted halls in red, cream, and black. Lean against delicately carved pillars and be amazed by the stunning golden statues. Enjoy an unforgettable experience of history and art.

Bluefield Tea Gardens - Tour a tea factory and plantation to see how the world-famous “Ceylon Tea” is produced. In 1824, a tea plant was brought to Ceylon by the British from China and planted in the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya for non-commercial purposes. James Taylor, a British citizen, introduced commercial tea plantations in Sri Lanka (Ceylon).

Nuwara Eliya - Nestled in the heart of tea country, Nuwara Eliya is a charming town where the British successfully created a replica of the English countryside, with homes in styles ranging from Georgian to Queen Anne. Well-kept lawns with hedges, an Anglican church, a famous golf course, and beautiful parks give the place an air of nostalgia. Situated 6,200 feet above sea level, the air is cool and fresh, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Nuwara Eliya > Ella

Little Adam’s Peak View Point - Explore Ella’s most fascinating spots. Pass through vibrant green tea fields and rugged rock stretches to witness the magical views from Little Adam’s Peak. Walk over the historic Nine Arches Bridge and hear the story of its construction. Conclude your hike at the Demodara Railway Station with its unique loop-over track design. This tour offers a chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s best sights.

Ella > Yala

Yala National Park - This incredible safari provides the opportunity to visit Yala National Park, the second largest on the island, located off the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. Spot the famous Sri Lankan leopards, indigenous wild water buffalo, Sri Lankan sloth bears, and large herds of Sri Lankan elephants. The park is also home to many other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.

Yala > Colombo

Galle Fort - Galle Fort in Sri Lanka: A UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Galle Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort, is a fortification first built by the Portuguese on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The initial fortifications, constructed in the late 16th century, were quite basic. However, the fort underwent extensive modifications in the 17th century by the Dutch, making it one of the most important archaeological, architectural, and historic monuments illustrating European influence in Southeast Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries. According to UNESCO, the site was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its unique exposition of an urban ensemble that illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Colombo - Head to the urban commercial area in Sri Lanka and explore the bustling city life, including sightseeing at Pettah Bazaar, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Gangaramaya Temple, and more.

Colombo > Airport

What's Included
  • Minimum 2 persons per booking
  • Highway toll fees included
  • Driver accommodations covered
  • All local taxes and charges included
  • Experienced professional guide
  • Transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle
What's Not Included
  • Food and Drinks
  • Entrance Fees
Additional Information

Embark on your dream vacation. Discover the unique culture, heritage, exotic wildlife, and natural beauty. Explore Kandy, the City of Culture, Polonnaruwa, the City of Heritage and History, and Colombo, Sri Lanka’s modern commercial hub. Experience diversity in a single journey. Feel the cool wind of Nuwara Eliya while sipping on a hot cup of Ceylon tea. Experience wildlife in its natural habitat in Minneriya, where a multitude of elephants are seen wandering freely. Seize the opportunity to see many elephants at once. Unwind with a cool drink and watch the sunset over the horizon at Galle Face Green, marking the end of a memorable day.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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up to 3 guests
1
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October 2024
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