12 DAYS/11 NIGHTS
UTTERLY SRI LANKAN
We are local at every level, from concept to implementation.
RESPONSIBLE & SENSITIVE
To understand and care is to be responsible and sensitive, to the green environment.
BEYOND THE OBVIOUS
The much travelled path in Sri Lanka gives so much delight, imagine the joys of the hidden places.
TOTALLY
YOURS
This is about you, the traveler, not us the host. Tell us your calendar, your interests, your joys and limitations.
EXPERIENCE
HIGHLIGHTS
We have explored our island home for decades, and we know that unpacking and repacking every day is no fun, neither are long drives without some adventure in the middle of it! So we minimize our logistics times by picking delightful and central accommodation to explore from… Bird songs and kids going to school early in the morning, farmers working the land, women at the lake…these are all experiences as you will love as we slowly move on by cycle, walking, and of course by vehicle.
While ensuring that you will not miss the iconic sites, let’s hike to ruins still lying in the tangled forest, with barely a traveler in sight, see the sun set over the giant man-made lakes with the rays hitting stupas and ruined monasteries that are thousands of years old, check out what village life is really like, and experience how nature is part of our heritage.
- Spend the 11 nights and 12 days in beautifully located personalized accommodation right where history happened.
- Pick the pace you want to keep, take time to explore the little curves in history that excite you.
- Be inspired by knowledgeable local guides that have a passion for their country and its past.
- Immerse yourself Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa – the King’s Country – in the North-Central Plains of Sri Lanka, the seat of power for over 15 centuries.
- Explore Yapahuwa and Gampola, the Kingdoms of troubled medieval Sri Lanka.
- Follow through history to its end – Sri Lanka’s 300 year struggle against European forces till it finally gave in.
- In Sri Lanka, nothing stands in isolation…History Buff you maybe, but we will show you the stunning beauty of our land, its waters, forests and wildlife, its hills and villages.
- And, the mainstay of our land – the people! Meet Sri Lankans for whom history is not the past but the foundation of the present.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Negombo
- Arrive in Negombo, unwind, and explore the charming seaside town.
- Take a Lagoon Boat Ride and visit the vibrant Negombo Fish Market.
- Overnight Stay: Negombo.
Day 2: Anuradhapura
- Visit the Sacred Bodhi Tree (Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi), a revered pilgrimage site and the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
- Explore the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, one of the most magnificent stupas in Sri Lanka, and the nearby Jetavanaramaya, the largest stupa in the ancient world.
- Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, known for its intricate rock carvings, including the famous “Lovers” sculpture.
- Explore the Abhayagiriya Monastery Complex and the Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna).
- Take a serene walk or bike ride around the ancient city walls and reservoirs.
- Overnight Stay: Anuradhapura.
Day 3: Yapahuwa and Mihintale
- Drive to Yapahuwa, a 13th-century rock fortress and former capital. Climb the impressive stone staircase to the summit for panoramic views.
- Return to Anuradhapura for lunch, then proceed to Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
- Climb the sacred mountain, visiting landmarks like the Kantaka Cetiya, Ambasthala Dagoba, and Aradhana Gala, which offers breathtaking sunset views.
- Overnight Stay: Anuradhapura.
Day 4: Kalu Diya Pokuna and Departure to Sigiriya
- Discover Kalu Diya Pokuna, an ancient monastic site surrounded by serene nature. Enjoy the tranquility and historical insights.
- After a late breakfast, visit other lesser-known ancient sites in the area or enjoy a leisurely morning.
- Depart for Sigiriya (approximately 2.5-hour drive).
- Check in to your accommodation and relax in the evening.
- Overnight Stay: Sigiriya.
Day 5: Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Pidurangala Rock
- Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, marveling at its frescoes, mirror wall, and summit ruins.
- Alternatively, climb Pidurangala Rock for stunning views of Sigiriya and the surrounding landscapes.
- Visit the Sigiriya Museum to gain deeper insights into the site’s history and significance.
- Enjoy a village tour or a traditional Sri Lankan cooking demonstration.
- Overnight Stay: Sigiriya.
Day 6: Kala Wewa and Ibban Katuwa
- Take a trip to Kala Wewa, an ancient reservoir with a massive Buddha statue (Avukana Buddha) nearby.
- Explore Ibban Katuwa, a quaint local village known for its cultural charm and scenic beauty.
- Relax at your accommodation or take a bike ride around the Sigiriya countryside.
- Overnight Stay: Sigiriya.
Day 7: Ritigala
- Visit the Ritigala Monastic Reserve, a serene ancient forest monastery with mysterious ruins and natural beauty.
- Return to Sigiriya and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying your accommodation or exploring the local village.
- Overnight Stay: Sigiriya.
Day 8: Polonnaruwa and Dambulla Cave Temple
- Take a day trip to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital. Visit key sites like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and the Lotus Pond.
- On your way back to Sigiriya, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. Explore the stunning murals and Buddha statues.
- Overnight Stay: Sigiriya.
Day 9: Travel to Kandy
- Depart for Kandy (approximately 3-hour drive).
- Check in to your accommodation.
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the holiest places for Buddhists.
- Witness a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance.
- Overnight Stay: Kandy.
Day 10: Three Temples Circuit
- Explore the Three Temples Circuit:
- Gadaladeniya Temple, known for its Dravidian architecture.
- Lankathilaka Temple, a blend of Sinhalese and Dravidian styles.
- Embekke Temple, famous for its intricate wood carvings.
- Visit a local craft village to see traditional Kandyan artisans at work.
- Enjoy a quiet evening stroll by Kandy Lake.
- Overnight Stay: Kandy.
Day 11: Royal Botanical Gardens or Hill Trek
- Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, renowned for its extensive collection of orchids and exotic plants.
- Take a short trek in the surrounding hills, such as the Hantana Mountain Range, for panoramic views of Kandy.
- Relax at your accommodation or enjoy a quiet dinner in a garden setting.
- Overnight Stay: Kandy.
Day 12: Departure
- Conclude your journey and depart from Sri Lanka, taking back cherished memories of a vibrant cultural and natural experience.
