Authentic Sri Lanka 8D7N

Authentic Sri Lanka 8D7N

SRI LANKA

In the Indian ocean, south of India lies Sri Lanka. Perhaps the slightly less travelled roots of Southern Asia. This idyllic Buddhist Island resembles a place time forgot where cows roam the lands, ancient monuments and temples are to be found almost everywhere, and rugged landscapes is home to a wonderfully diverse range of animals, especially the elephants. Great explorers were enticed by the lush greenery, the fragrant spices and its tropical lifestyle. Some wrote chapters about it, some wrote books, and some never left after falling in love with the island and its many hidden treasures. 2000 years of cultural history is recorded at ancient sites and temples some of which are now listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The recent past includes the rule of the Dutch and British over this sovereign island later gaining independence in 1948. Today it’s famous for its delicious tea, turquoise beaches, exotic wildlife, ancient monuments, and many more. An island so small, yet so unexpectedly diverse from every point of view.

EXPLORE

Sri Lanka is an out of this world tropical island which is blessed with an exciting piece of everything possible on earth. Escape to a paradise on earth where you can trot along the golden sands sipping a fresh king-coconut, safari through the lush jungle to see mighty elephants and elusive leopards and perfect your golf swing on a stunning green golf course. This is an outdoor paradise somewhere to totally escape and fall completely off the grid. Buses, tuk-tuks and mopeds all noisily hurtling along the busy streets. Once known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka was a country that Sri Lanka is a country whose Buddhist past is as prevalent today as it was thousands of years ago. So, with such a lengthy heritage there’s a great array of temples, ancient monasteries and monuments to explore, both in the town and hidden away in the islands’ dense forests. Here you’ll find local artists taking their inspiration from Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Sri Lankan

craftsmanship has a long and vibrant history. Over the centuries the islanders have produced everything from lace work, elaborate metal works & carvings in wood. Buddha’s Hindu Gods, traditional Sri Lankan masks and elephants are among the most popular carvings. The people in Sri Lanka are what makes this wonderful island what it is. The smiles, the ever-so-helpful attitude, the laid-back lifestyle and the rustic architecture all tastefully lingers in your mind every step of the way.

WEATHER & BEST TIME TO VISIT

The weather in Sri Lanka is dictated by two monsoon seasons which bring rain to the west and south-west coasts from May to September; and the east coast and northern region between October and February. The rest of the year is sunny and dry. Temperatures are constant year-round, with coastal regions enjoying average temperatures of 25-30C and the highlands 15-18C on average.

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination since there is something for every discerning traveler. From pilgrim experiences to adventure, culture, honeymoon, or even special interest experiences, there is something you can do in Sri Lanka anytime of the year. With recent weather pattern changes, it is hard to predict when it would rain and when the sun is out, however, making a note that Sri Lanka is a tropical destination and rain is to be expected anytime of the day, any time of the year; always helps.

Our recommended best time of the year to travel is between November to April. However, its best to keep in mind that this period is also quite expensive to travel as the European winters and the festive year end generally attracts a lot of travelers to Sri Lanka.

VISA

VISA can be obtained online via the government e-visa website – www.eta.gov.lk - If you are a citizen of Singapore, Maldives, or Seychelles, you are exempt from the requirement of obtaining visa for 1 month. It could take up to 5 working days for a VISA to process depending on where you are from.

Day 01 - (Katunayake) Airport → Negombo
Accommodation - Negombo
Meal Plan - Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 30 Minutes

Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Arrive at the Colombo International Airport, you will be met by a designated guide from Fly 2 Ceylon. After the formalities at the airport, you will be escorted to your air-conditioned vehicle and then transfer to Negombo.

Transfer to the hotel & Check-in
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 02 - Negombo → Mihintale → Anuradhapura → Dambulla
Accommodation - Dambulla
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 5 Hours 30 Min

After an appetizing breakfast, proceed to Mihintale.

Visit *Mihintale is a sacred mountain peak located near Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. It is considered a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists as it is believed to be the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. The mountain is home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and other religious structures. Visitors can climb the stone steps leading to the summit and explore the various historical sites, including the Mahaseya Stupa, Ambasthala Dagoba, and Mihindu Cave, where the meeting between King Devanampiyatissa and Arahat Mahinda took place. The panoramic views from the top of Mihintale offer a serene and awe-inspiring experience, making it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

Transfer to Anuradhapura

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Visit *The sacred city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It was the first capital of Sri Lanka and served as a political and religious center for over a millennium. The city features numerous ancient monuments, including massive stupas, intricately carved stone pillars, and monasteries that reflect the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. The sacred Bodhi tree, the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world, is also located within the city's premises. The sacred city of Anuradhapura is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and an essential destination for visitors to Sri Lanka, showcasing the country's ancient history and culture.

Visit *Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya, a 3rd century BC Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is renowned for its intricate carvings and stunning rock formations. It houses a large Buddha image, elephant and lion carvings, and a museum showcasing Buddhist history. Visitors can explore the grounds, enjoy a serene lake, and enjoy the lush greenery, making it a must-visit for Sri Lankan history and culture. & *The Sacred Bo Tree, also known as the Sri Maha Bodhi, is a revered and ancient tree located in the city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is believed to be the oldest documented tree in the world and holds immense significance for Buddhists worldwide. The tree is a descendant of the original Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India. Buddhists consider it a sacred and spiritual site, and it serves as a focal point for devotion and meditation. Surrounded by a protective fence, the Sacred Bo Tree stands as a symbol of peace, enlightenment, and the enduring legacy of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Transfer to Dambulla & Check-in to the Hotel
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 03 - Dambulla → Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Dambulla
Accommodation - Dambulla
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 3 Hours

After an appetizing breakfast, proceed to Sigirya.

Visit *Sigiriya is a “UNESCO World Heritage Site” and the 5th Century “Fortress in the Sky” which is perhaps the most fantastic single wonder of the Island. It is also known as Lion Rock because of the huge lion that used to stand at the entrance to the Palace on the summit of the 600-foot-high rock. On its summit are the foundations of the Royal Palace, Water Tanks to supply water and all other buildings and at the edges the guardhouses. On one of the stairways the only known ancient work of Sinhala secular painting survived in the form of Frescoes of 21 life sized damsels still shining in their original colors. The Water Gardens, Fountain Garden, Summerhouses, Boulder Gardens, and the Caves within the enclosed area should not be missed.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Visit *The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It served as the capital of Sri Lanka during the 11th to 13th centuries and is considered one of the country's most significant historical and archaeological sites. The city features numerous ancient monuments, including palaces, temples, and colossal Buddha statues, reflecting the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. The ruins of the city showcase the impressive engineering and architectural achievements of the ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Visitors to Polonnaruwa can explore the ancient ruins, including the Gal Vihara, Thuparama, and the Royal Palace complex, and experience the city's fascinating history and cultural significance.

Transfer back to Hotel in Dambulla.
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 04 - Dambulla → Matale → Kandy
Accommodation - Kandy
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 3 Hours

After a scrumptious breakfast proceed to Dambulla cave temple.

In the Morning visit *Dambulla cave temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a complex of Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka's central province. Carved into a giant rock, it comprises of five caves adorned with over 150 statues of Buddha, frescoes, and paintings. The temple dates back to the first century BC and has been continuously maintained and expanded over the centuries. The largest cave, the Maharaja Vihara, contains a 14-meter long reclining Buddha statue, one of the largest in Asia. It is an important religious site and cultural landmark, attracting thousands of visitors every year and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Continue to Kandy,
En-route, *Spice Garden in Matale to see the different spices, which Sri Lanka is famous for. You will be introduced to different spices and shown how some of these spices are grown and processed &
Visit Alu Viharaya, also known as Aluvihare Rock Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple nestled in the town of Matale, Sri Lanka. It holds immense religious and historical significance as it is believed to be the place where the Pali Canon, the Buddhist scriptures, were first committed to writing. The temple is built into a natural cave complex, and its walls feature intricate and well-preserved ancient frescoes and rock carvings. Visitors can explore the serene temple grounds, admire the ancient artwork, and gain insight into the profound teachings of Buddhism. Alu Viharaya stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy of Sri Lanka.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic which was once a resplendent royal palace. The palace now houses one of the most sacred tooth relics of the Buddha and is considered one of the most symbolic icons of the Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka.

Sightseeing in *Kandy, including Upper Lake Drive, Market Crafts Centre, Gem Museum. Kandy the hill capital, venue of the annual Perahera The last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings was finally ceded to the British in 1815.

Late Cultural Show (Traditional Dances)

Transfer to Hotel
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 05 - Kandy → Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation - Nuwara Eliya
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 3 Hours

After a scrumptious breakfast proceed to Nuwara Eliya.

En-route visit Ramboda Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the central province of Sri Lanka, situated between the towns of Pussellawa and Nuwara Eliya. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the country, with a height of approximately 109 meters (358 feet), and is fed by the Panna Oya river. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and steep rock faces, making for a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can view the falls from a nearby bridge or take a short hike to get a closer look. Ramboda Falls is a popular tourist attraction and is considered to be one of the natural wonders of Sri Lanka. stop and *Walk Through a Tea Plantation. The plucking field where it all begins with the picking of “two leaves and a bud”. Originally introduced to the island around 1850 by the British, Ceylon Tea is world famous for its high quality and has remained a major contributor to the island’s economy for generations.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

*Nuwara Eliya, which is called “Little England of Sri Lanka” and is located in the dense, foggy hills of this paradise island. The colonial atmosphere remains preserved and resembles the British countryside filed with rose bushes.

Transfer to Hotel
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 06 - Nuwara Eliya → Yala
Accommodation - Elephant Reach
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 2 Hours

After an appetizing breakfast checkout from the hotel & proceed to Yala

Lunch at Local Restaurant

In the evening have Jeep safari at Yala National Park is a vast wildlife sanctuary located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, known for its incredible biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park is home to a wide range of animals, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the park on guided jeep safaris, which offer the opportunity to see the animals in their natural habitat. The park also features a variety of natural attractions, including beautiful beaches, scenic lakes, and stunning waterfalls. With its unique wildlife and natural beauty, Yala National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.

Transfer to Hotel
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 07 - Yala → Galle → Bentota
Accommodation - Bentota
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 5 Hours

After a scrumptious breakfast proceed to Galle.

En-route visit Still Fishing & Mirissa Coconut tree hill.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Visit *Galle is a historic coastal city located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. The city is famous for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, which is evident in its fortifications, buildings, and narrow streets. The old town of Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to various cultural attractions, such as the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church, and the Maritime Museum. Galle is also known for its stunning beaches, such as Unawatuna and Mirissa, where visitors can indulge in various water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. The city is a must-visit destination for those interested in Sri Lanka's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Continue to Bentota

Transfer to Hotel
Dinner & Overnight stay at The Hotel

Day 08 - Bentota → Colombo → Airport
Meal Plan - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Travel Time - Approx. 2 Hours

After a scrumptious breakfast proceed to Colombo

Visit *Gangaramaya Temple is a significant Buddhist temple located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. It was founded in the late 1800s and has since become a prominent center for Buddhist learning and practice. The temple boasts an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, including statues, paintings, and ancient manuscripts. One of its most striking features is a beautiful Bo tree, which is said to have been grown from a sapling of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple also hosts an annual procession called the Navam Perahera, which is a colorful display of traditional Sri Lankan music, dance, and costumes.

Have Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Evening, commence sightseeing of the commercial capital of Sri Lanka

COLOMBO CITY TOUR, drive through the city taking you to the busy commercial areas as well as the tree lined residential, Cinnamon Gardens, Visit Fort, the former British administrative Centre and military garrison, Lotus Tower, Sea Street – the Goldsmiths quarters in the heart of Pettah, the Bazaar area, where is also a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, and the Dutch Church of Wolfe dhal dating back to 1749. Colombo Shopping Tour: Take a fascinating journey in the capital of the isle paradise. This commercial and administrative hub of the country proves to be a blend of cultural texture, religions, and socioeconomic classes. Visit bargain markets, Independence Square, Odel Shopping Mall, Colombo City Center, One Galle Face, Shopping at Laksala state owned Handicraft’s emporium.

Transfer to Airport for the flight & go back to home.

 

Note: Some adventures might be subject to change due to weather conditions. If you wish, you can customize the packages according to your preferred destinations and activities, ensuring your trip is tailored to your interests.

End of the tour

Hi. I'm Chamara Rathnasiri, Founder of Fly2Ceylon. Contact me via WhatsApp (click the icon on bottom left) so that we can discuss further on this tour package.

Chamara Rathnasiri
info@fly2ceylontours.com
+82 10-5691-2655

 

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