CULTURAL
Known by such names as Taprobane, Serendib and Ceylon in times past, Sri Lanka lays claim to a fascinating history. Cultural tours in Sri Lanka offer a glimpse of the rich heritage and help find the meaning behind local traditions and folklore. As a premier among travel agents in Sri Lanka, we customise your tour package to unravel everything from ancient ruins to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
3 Days/2 Nights
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport where you will be welcomed by a representative of Lanka Leisure Travels or a tour guide. After your welcome, begin the journey to the hill capital, Kandy.
In the evening pay a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy which is one of the main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Thereafter you can witness a cultural show at a local auditorium.
As the day draws to a close, indulge in an authentic Sri Lankan dinner at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
DAY 3 - KANDY | PERADENIYA | PINNAWALA | SELECTED BEACH RESORT
After a delectable breakfast, proceed on a tour of the city of Kandy.
The city of Kandy lays claim to a vibrant culture, a rich heritage and a unique charm of its own. Pay a visit to its many iconic attractions and discover the sense of tradition which pervaded it and captures the hearts of visitor from around the world.
One of its foremost attractions is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, home to what is believed to be a sacred relic of Lord Buddha. Traverse across the town’s streets where you will find shops selling intricate souvenirs and international brands, a gem museum, and lapidary as well as an arts & crafts centre. Drive towards the Victoria Golf Course, one of the finest gold links in all of South Asia and appreciate some panoramic views and the game of golf. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Kandy Market after which you will be able to enjoy a cultural show which showcases the traditional drumming and dancing which form a major part of the Kandian identity.
Thereafter visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya located just four miles from Kandy town. Walk into a 147 acre haven, passing manicured lawns as well as pavilions and an octagon conservatory; immerse yourself in vast and lush gardens, perfect for a break amidst nature’s tranquillity. North of the entrance is a cafeteria along with some of the highlights here like a giant Javan fig tree and the Orchid House.
On completion of your Kandy adventures transfer to a beach hotel. En route visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage; amidst this large 25 acre property, you have a chance to witness baby elephants being bottle fed as well as get up close to them. It is an amazing sight to observe how these orphaned and sometimes injured gentle giants are taken care of at this orphanage that was established in 1975. Over 20 calves have been born here, and it is interesting to note that some of the elephants here have even seen their “grandchildren” being raised here over the decades! Milk feeding time is at 09:15 am and 01:15 pm, while bath time for the elephants at the nearby river takes place at 10:00 am and 02:00 pm daily; both these activities offer a truly unforgettable experience.
Transfer from Pinnawala to a beach resort up to Beruwala in the south or Marawila in the northwest coast.
DAY 2 - KANDY | SIGIRIYA | DAMBULLA | MATALE | KANDY
After a scrumptious breakfast head to Sigiriya, the fifth century rock citadel built during the time of King Kasyapa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent fortress not only showcases the ingenuity of Sri Lankan engineering with the planning of the ancient town but is also one of the island’s finest monuments, interlinked with art and culture. Make the ascent and pass through the gigantic section of what remains of the 'Lion Paws. Feast your eyes across rolling land and lake vistas and relish the cool winds that sweep across the region.
Take in the iconic frescoes of the lovely cloud maidens, walk along the famed Mirror Wall on the west side of the fortress and take time to admire an artistic creation that showcases creative verses and poems left by ancient visitors. After which one can head to the museum located by the entrance which will offer a more comprehensive understanding about the significance of this colossal masterpiece and the rather advanced irrigation system which was incorporated into the infrastructure of the citadel.
After your visit to the rock fortress return to Kandy. En route, stop at the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, a historic and sacred site which was also a focal point for many kings since the first century B.C.
This site is home to distinctive paintings which can be found in five magnificently constructed cave temples beside the Golden Temple of Dambulla. Observe how these exquisite cave paintings are drawn along the walls along with over 150 statues of Lord Buddha. While you explore this sanctuary make sure to take in the massive gold Buddha statue as well.
Thereafter, visit a spice garden in Matale, and learn about the therapeutic values of spices and the various cultivation process employed, after which one can enjoy a revitalising cup of herbal tea.
The more adventurous type in need of a more authentic town experience can look forwards to wandering through the bustling streets filled with exotic sights and sounds.
Head back to your hotel for a hearty dinner and reminisce about the adventures of the day.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
5 Days/4 Nights
If living in rural Sri Lanka feels like a lot like love at first sight, a week in Colombo would feel like a blissful love affair. Slowly but surely, the busy streets will give way to the city’s great beauty.
Lying by the scenic Beira Lake, not far from Galle Face, is one of the most important temples of Colombo. The Gangaramaya Temple is a stunning mix of Sri Lanka’s proud culture and modern architecture. For a chance to learn a bit about the country’s history, visit the National Museum. It is the island’s largest museum and is housed in a historical building. The perfect place to end a tour of Colombo, the large public expanse known as Galle Face Green is right by the sea and is an ideal spot to take in a magical sunset.
Overnight stay in Colombo.
DAY 02 - COLOMBO | PINNAWALA | DAMBULLA | KANDALAMA
Sri Lanka’s tropical and sub-tropical landscapes provide an exhilarating adventure for those interested in exploring wildlife and nature at its most authentic. Pay a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphange to spend some time ineretaring with some friendly jumbos.
Head off on an Indiana Jones-like adventure as you discover the treasures of Sri Lanka’s Dambulla Temple. Considered the country’s best preserved and biggest cave temple, the Dambulla Temple has a rich history. Its origins go back to the first century BC, Also referred to as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this destination has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.
Savour a delectable dinner in Kandalama.
Overnight stay in Kandalama.
DAY 03 - KANDALAMA | SIGIRIYA | POLONNARUWA
The principal cultural attraction of Sigiriya is the spectacular Lion Rock which features the remnants of a royal palace on its summit. While ascending the rock, one will get the chance the take in frescos of lovely maidens, the mirror wall and a series of other features.
Declared as the second capital of Sri Lanka, replacing Anuradhapura, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Till today, the city remains as being one of the best s archaeological sites in the country and stands as a great testimony to the greatness of the Kingdom’s rulers. Some of the key ancient attractions in the city to keep an eye out for are the Palace and Statue of King Parakramabahu, the Potgul Vehera and Shiva Devale.
Savour a delectable dinner in Kandalama
Overnight stay in Kandalama.
DAY 04 - KANDALAMA | MATALE | PERADENIYA | KANDY
Matale is known as an agricultural zone in the Central Province, due to its outstanding contribution through leading crops of the country, extending from rubber, tea to spices.
Peradeniya is a small suburb located approximately 5.5 km away from the historic and famous city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Situated close to the Mahaweli River, the country’s largest river, the region of Peradeniya is a fertile area known for its flourishing plantations. Given this reputation, it is no surprise that an extraordinary garden such as the Royal Botanical Gardens can be found in Peradeniya.
Savour a delectable dinner in Kandy
Overnight stay in Kandy.