Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle
No matter where you’re going from, we take you there
DAY 1: Warm welcome to Sri Lanka at Bandaranayake International Airport by Serenite Lanka.
DAY 2: Arrive Colombo - Negombo
On arrival in Colombo you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Negombo where you will have the rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 3: Negombo - Sigiriya.
This morning transfer to Sigiriya. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the town, founded around the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (or Lion Rock). (D)
DAY 4: Sigiriya - Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Sigiriya.
After breakfast, a short journey through lush Sri Lankan countryside takes you to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city is considered sacred to the Buddhist world and is surrounded by monasteries. Your city tour takes in the well-preserved ruins of this area and the Sri Maha Bodhi (or Bo Tree), the oldest tree in the world with a recorded planting date. This remarkable tree was a sapling taken from the Jaya Siri Maha Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. Later, visit the pilgrimage site of Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya
This morning visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a giant magma plug which has served both as a long-standing Buddhist monastery and a fortress. Surrounded by a network of gardens and moats, it is a historical, geological and anthropological landmark. The ancient ruins of the upper palace can also be found on the summit, which at 656 feet above sea level and affords magnificent views of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside. On the way to the top, keep an eye out for the famous ‘Cloud Maidens’ frescoes painted on the rock wall. After lunch visit the ruins of Polonnaruwa, where you will see the remains of the Royal Palace, the statue of King Parakramabahu, the Thuparama Image house, and the captivating Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara – a well-preserved and fine example of ancient rock cut sculpture. Note: A number of steep steps must be climbed in order to reach the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: Sigiriya - Beach resort
Your fascinating cultural tour of Sri Lanka draws to a close today with a visit to the Dambulla Rock Cave Temples – five fantastically preserved caverns containing frescoes and statues of Buddha. Afterwards, transfer to your chosen beach resort. (B)
DAY 7 to 10: Beach resort
Relax at your beach resort. (B)
Accommodation on Tour
Negombo: Goldi Sands; Sigiriya: Sigiriya Village Hotel.
Note: Tour hotels will be as specified or alternatives of a similar standard.