Encounter ancient empires and civilisations at Sri Lanka’s best known heritage sites, before expanding your understanding of Sri Lanka’s history through detailed exploration of its less-obvious archaeological sites. Expert guides are on hand to lead your journey of archaeological discovery.
Curious-minded explorer types wanting to learn about the rich and ancient culture Sri Lanka.
Welcome to Colombo. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your accommodation set in private coconut Estate, a journey of around an hour from the airport.Unwind and spend the remainder of your day at leisure
Depart to Thirappane in the area known as the cultural triangle and enroute visit the ephemeral ancient medieval capital, Yapahuwa, a journey of around 2 hours. Proceed to view Avukana Buddha Statue, a standing statue of the Buddha at a height over 40 feet carved in granite rock before proceeding to your accommodation in Thirappane. Your accommodation here is a stunning eco resort situated on a 23-hectare estate nestled among two sparkling reservoirs, lush green paddy fields and lily ponds with 150-year-old ancestral mansion of local nobility at its centre. Enjoy the remainder of your day at your property.
Early this morning drive to Sigiriya for an hour to climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress,a UNESCO Heritage site. This colossal Rock Fortress, also known as ‘Lion Rock’, is possibly Sri Lanka’s best-known attraction and one of its biggest drawcards.Thereafter visit Ritigala ancient archaeological monastery, One of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known and lesser-visited sites with an expert on a private guided tour. Return to your accommodation in the evening.
Depart to Anuradhapura ancient city for a guided walk with an expert. The ancientpolitical and religious city of Anuradhapura – known as ‘The City of Kings’ – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continuously inhabited for over two millennia, it was the seat of power in Sri Lanka until constant invasions forced a move.Later this afternoon discover the little known Kaludiya Pokuna Archaeological Forest Site containing a number of ancient ruins hidden beneath the forest canopy. Return to your accommodation in the evening
This morning travel to Polonnaruwa, a journey of around 2 hours. Once the medieval capital, this heritage site is the second-oldest kingdom of Sri Lanka with remarkable sculptures and temples with intricate carvings. After exploring the ancient ruins, enjoy a `Lordly Lunch' - a feast of typical Sri Lankan curries at a local restaurant. Return to your accommodation and be at leisure for the rest of the evening.
Depart to Kandy this morning, a journey of around 3 hours. Enroute visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the ‘Golden Temple of Dambulla’,one of Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is considered to be the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in the country, with an enviable collection of statues, stupas, carvings and paintings all packed together in a small space. Arrive in Kandy, the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kings is also known as the hill capital and check into your accommodation, a beautifully restored 18th century ancestral manor house.
Enjoy a leisurely morningand visit the Temple of Tooth in the afternoon.Built during the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage listed Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple located in the royal palace complex in the heart of the city. This is one the most important and highly revered places of worship for local Buddhists as well as for devotees from around the globe.
This morning take a break from the main tourist attractions and discover the beauty of the hill country on a gentle guided walk. Visit three ancient legendary temples, Embekka, Gadaladeniya and Lankathilake. This walk along rice fields bordering small villages with lovely views, also gives you an opportunity to observe locals working at their gardens and rice fields. Spend the afternoon at leisure enjoying the facilities at your accommodation.
This morning transfer to the railway station this morning to board a train to Nanu Oya in the tea country. This is a magical journey through Sri Lanka’s hill country with its lush tea plantations and smiling people. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your accommodation, just outside Nuwara Eliya. This recently renovated beautiful boutique property based on a working tea estate, has beautiful 360-degree views of the rolling hills beyond.
This morning discover the history of tea in Sri Lanka on a tour led by an expert, a retired tea planter.Enjoy a private tea tasting with him. This afternoon is at leisure.
Depart to Yala this morning,a journey of around 5 hours. Enroute visit Buduruwagala ancient Buddhist temple consisting seven Buddha statues carved in rock. Yala National Park is the most visited wildlife reserve in Sri Lanka. As the terrain is semi-arid, there's a better chance to see wildlife with less jungle hindering views. The park is home to a wide variety of animals – including herds of elephants, wild boar, wild buffalo, crocodiles, sloth bears and monkeys. Its most famous residents, however, are its elusive leopards. Your stay here is at an upmarket tented accommodation close to the Park’s buffer zone. Go on a jeep safari this afternoon with the in-house naturalist.
Embark on an early morning jeep safari. Return to your accommodation, refresh and drive to Tangalle, a picturesque beach town on the south coast on a journey of around two hours. Check in to your accommodation, the final masterpiece of world renown Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa for a quiet stay at the beach.
Explore Tangalle and area around today with its sleepy villages and agriculture-based households. The relaxed paced lifestyle and culture is strongly rooted on religion and heritage.
Today depart to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Galle on an hour drive. Galle Fortis considered to be the best example of a fortified city in south and southeast Asia. One of the most remarkable things about Galle Fort is that it is a living monument - families that have lived here for generations continue to inhabit the fortified streets and here’s your chance to experience the same.Discover the many faces of Galle with your driver-guide. He will help you to find a way to look beyond the touristy facade and discover the Fort’s true nature. Your accommodation in Galle Fort is a stylishly renovated 17th century townhouse superbly located in the heart of Galle Fort.
Spend some time exploring Galle Fort today, a pleasant place to wander with its quiet streets, inviting cafes and many boutiques and artisan workshops.
Today drive to Colombo's International airport for your departure flight, a journey of around two hours.
"We loved the generosity and friendliness of the Sri Lankan people. It is a beautiful country with so much diverse culture, history, monuments, religion, food and peoples. Thank you Sri Lanka Unbound for organising a memorable visit." Carol - August 2017
Prices are indicative only & subject to change.
Additional inclusions may vary from private tour to private tour. A full list of inclusions and exclusions will be provided with each individual enquiry/quote.