7 Day -Cultural Heritage & Hidden Wonders of Sri Lanka

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Starting from $830 $705.5
Tour Type
round Tour
Pickup Location
Airport (BIA)
Duration
7 Days

Tour description


Discover Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and ancient wonders on this 7-day journey through historic cities and UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy to the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore centuries-old temples, intricate wood carvings, and the serene ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Witness breathtaking landscapes, from the lush Royal Botanical Gardens to the ancient rock fortresses of Yapahuwa and Dambulla. With scenic drives, vibrant cultural experiences, and guided tours, this itinerary offers an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s timeless beauty and history.

Itinerary


DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SRI LANKA & TRANSFER TO KANDY (Approx. 3.5-hour drive)
  • Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or pick-up from your hotel in Colombo, Negombo, or Mount Lavinia, your personal chauffeur guide from Sign of Lanka will warmly welcome you. You will then be transferred to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. After check-in at your hotel, unwind and enjoy the leisure facilities of the property.
  • Overnight stay in Kandy on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 2: EXPLORE THE HERITAGE TEMPLES & CITY TOUR OF KANDY
  • After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a cultural journey to visit three of Kandy’s most significant ancient temples:
  • Embekke Temple – renowned for its exquisitely carved wooden pillars, each featuring unique patterns on all four sides.
  • Lankatilaka Temple – a majestic temple built on a rock outcrop, painted a distinctive pale blue.
  • Gadaladeniya Temple – perched on a rocky hill, accessed by stone-cut steps, and known for its serene surroundings.
  • Later, return to Kandy for an insightful city tour. Pay homage at the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site. Enjoy a scenic tuk-tuk ride around Kandy Lake and visit the Bahirawakanda Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Stroll through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, home to diverse tropical flora. Explore Kandy’s vibrant streets, shop for batik, gems, and antiques, and sample local fruits. Cap off the day with a captivating traditional cultural show.
  • Overnight stay in Kandy on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 3: KANDY TO SIGIRIYA VIA NALANDA GEDIGE & DAMBULLA (Approx. 3-hour drive)
  • After breakfast, journey towards Sigiriya with your first stop at Nalanda Gedige, a remarkable fusion of Sinhalese and Tamil architecture, reflecting both Buddhist and Hindu influences from the 7th to 11th centuries.
  • Next, witness a live wood carving demonstration at a local workshop. Discover Sri Lanka’s rich craftsmanship as you observe traditional techniques and even try your hand at carving.
  • In the late afternoon, explore the Dambulla Cave Temple, one of Asia’s best-preserved cave temple complexes. Marvel at the intricate murals and over 150 statues of Buddha in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Overnight stay in Sigiriya on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 4: POLONNARUWA & SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS (Full-day excursion)
  • After breakfast, set off for Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including ancient dagobas, moonstones, royal palaces, and the majestic Sea of Parakrama, a vast reservoir built in the 12th century.
  • In the afternoon, conquer the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the “Fortress in the Sky.” Built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century, Sigiriya is famed for its advanced irrigation systems, frescoes of celestial maidens, and the imposing Lion’s Gate. The breathtaking views from the summit are a reward for your climb.
  • Overnight stay in Sigiriya on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 5: ANURADHAPURA & MIHINTALE EXCURSION (Approx. 2-hour drive each way)
  • After breakfast, drive to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore sacred landmarks such as the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the oldest historically documented tree in the world, and monumental stupas like Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya.
  • On the return journey, visit Mihintale, known as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. This serene site is where Mahinda Thero introduced Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa in 250 BC. Climb the ancient steps for stunning views and visit the Ambasthala Dagoba and Aradhana Gala.
  • Overnight stay in Sigiriya on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 6: SIGIRIYA TO NEGOMBO VIA YAPAHUWA (Approx. 4-hour drive)
  • After breakfast, head towards Negombo with a stop at Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, the 4th ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka. This 13th-century fortress, once the royal residence and home to the Sacred Tooth Relic, boasts impressive stone stairways, ancient Buddhist shrines, and breathtaking views from the summit. The architecture bears similarities to Sigiriya but remains a hidden gem for most travelers.
  • Continue your journey to Negombo, known for its sandy beaches and vibrant coastal charm.
  • Overnight stay in Negombo on a Bed & Breakfast basis.
DAY 7: DEPARTURE FROM NEGOMBO TO BANDARANAIKE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
  • After breakfast, enjoy some leisure time in Negombo. Your representative from Sign of Lanka will ensure you reach Bandaranaike International Airport on time for your departure, concluding your memorable cultural journey through Sri Lanka.

Includes


  • Paging and welcome with Garlands on arrival
  • Meeting and assistance at the airport on arrival
  • 500ml Mineral Water Bottle per day per person will be given during sightseeing tours
  • 06-nights’ Accommodation in 4 Star Hotels on Bed & Breakfast basis.
  • Sightseen on FOC Basis for Spice Garden & Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
  • Entrance Fees to Lankathilaka Temple, Gadaladeniya Temple, Embekke Temple, Kandy Tooth Relic Temple, Bahirawa Kanda Temple, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Nalanda Gedige in Matale, Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Ancient City of Anuradhapura, Mihintale Temple & Yapahuwa Rock only
  • Transportation will be provided in a luxury, air-conditioned private vehicle for a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
  • Service of an English-speaking Chauffeur Guide during sightseeing tours
  • All current taxes as on date
  • Parking and highway tickets

Excludes


  • Sri Lanka Visa Fees: Not included in the tour package.
  • Meals: Lunches and dinners unless specified in the itinerary.
  • International Airfare & Airport Taxes: Not included.
  • Tax Changes: Any increase in government taxes post-booking will be borne by the traveler.
  • Personal Expenses: Tips, laundry, phone calls, and personal shopping.
  • Camera Fees: Charges for still/video cameras at tourist sites are excluded.
  • Bar & Mini-Bar: Expenses on beverages, telephone usage, and room service are not included.
  • Tipping: Customary but not mandatory; tips for guides, hotel, and restaurant staff are at your discretion.
  • Unmentioned Expenses: Any services not explicitly listed under "Inclusions."

Conditions


  • Child rate applies only when sharing with 1 paying adult: The child rate for the tour applies when a child shares a room with one paying adult.
  • Children 4 years + 11 months and younger are complimentary: Children who are 4 years old or younger, up to 11 months, are eligible for complimentary accommodation when accompanied by a paying adult.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult: It is required that children are accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Know before you go


  • Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting sacred sites.
  • Vegetarian Meals: Available on request; inform at the time of booking.
  • Transfer Times: Approximate and may vary due to traffic and time of day.
  • Passport: A valid passport is required for travel.
  • Gratuities: Tips are not included in the tour price.
  • Accessibility: This tour is not wheelchair accessible