Exploring Sri Lanka
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Day 01 |
Yapahuwa |
| We will be leaving direct to Yapahuwa from Colombo. This rock fortress is situated in the North – West province of Sri Lanka, and midway between Kurunegala and Anuradhapura. Yapahuwa served as capital of Sri Lanka in the latter part of the 13th century. Built on a huge 90 meter high rock boulder in the style of Sigiriya, It was a palace and a military stronghold against foreign inwaders. The ornamental staircase is its biggest attraction. In that era Yapahuwa was seat of government and home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Today it is one of the country’s most unique and important sites of historic interest containing abundant traces of ancient settlements and remnants. | |
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Anuradhapura |
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From this place we will start to go to Anuradhapura, capital city of the first kingdom of Sri Lanka which was built with a time span of the 03rd century and the 08th century. It is famous for its well preserved ruins of the ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The reservoirs, canals, and irrigation channels which were built during these times convey the advanced technology of the Ancient Aryans which is still a mystery to the modern scientist. The city was also a center of the Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. The city is now a world heritage site under the UNESCO. |
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Day 02 |
Sigiriya |
| Early next morning we will proceed to Sigiriya the famous rock fortress. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 meters (660 ft) in height. According to ancient chronicles, King Kashyapa selected this place as his kingdom and built the palace on the top of the rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes and also a mirror wall. A gate way was also built in the form of an enormous lion. A gate way was also built in the form of an enormous lion.The name of this place derive from this structure – Singhagiri – the LION ROCK, which was abandoned after the king’s death. Today it is a UNESCO listed world heritage site. Polonnaruwa After enjoying the amazing cultural inheritance of the Sigiriya rock we will visit Polonnaruwa, the ancient city. It remains one of the best planned archeological sites in the country. The ancient city Polonnaruwa has been declared a world heritage site. Best known as one of the cleanest and most beautiful cities in the country, the green environment amazing ancient constructions, the Parakrama Samudra (Lake built in the ancient period 200) and attractive tourist hotels and also hospitable people. The world famous “Gal Viharaya” is also situated here which consists of colossal Buddhist statues carved out of rock.We will be spending the night in this ancient city. |
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Day 03 |
Dambulla |
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Dambulla is the largest and the best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160 meters over the surrounding plains. There are over 80 documented caves in the surroundings. Major attractions are spread over 5 caves which contain statues and paintings. The main paintings and statues are related to the Lord Buddha’s life. Kandy Your last place of visit for today will be Kandy, the hill capital, picturesquely located and without doubts the most beautiful city in the island. Regarded as Sri Lanka’s cultural center and the final kingdom of the country. Kandy is home for the unique Sri Lankan dancing style which is known as Kandyan dancing. You can also visit the DaladaMaligawa, the golden roofed temple which homes the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. It is one of the most sacred places of worship of the Buddhist world where you shall witness a pooja that is done to worship the relics and you can also listen to the kandyan drumming. Peradeniya botanical gardens is another beautiful location known for its’ bio-diversity. Kandy is also an ideal shopping location for gems, jewellery and traditional handcrafts gems, jewellery and traditional handcrafts. The city was declared a world heritage site by the UNESCO in 1988. |
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Day 04 |
Colombo |
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After spending night in the beautiful hill country we will be returning back to Colombo. You can go sightseeing in Colombo during the last day of the tour. The capital city of Sri Lanka, it has lot of attractions for tourists. Galle Face green is ribbon of green space located in the heart of the Indian ocean coast and is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. The Galle Face hotel is a historic landmark on the southern edge of the promenade. The Gangaramaya temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo. The architecture demonstrates an eclectic use of Sri Lanka, Indian and Chinese architecture. The Viharamahadevi ( formerly Victoria park ) park is also a place you can pay a visit. Colombo is also a city where there is a fine blending of the old and the new of architecture. Ideal location for shopping designer wear, handloom products, cotton and linen wear hand made leather handbags and shoes, Gems and jewellery. |