Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century B.C and continues to play a central role in the lives of the majority of Sri Lankans. This journey gives you an insight into the Buddhist heritage and ancient kingdoms of this island. Your final days here will be spent on the sandy beaches of the south west where a relaxing beach holiday is blended with holistic wellness including Ayurveda, yoga and meditation.
Upon arrival you will be met by one of our chauffeurs at the Airport arrival lounge and then transferred to Colombo city, the drive will take around about 45 minutes from the airport. Relax after your long flight or if you wish to explore then you are free to discuss with your chauffeur and plan your city tour of Colombo, if time permits visit the Kingdom of Kotte which was the 07th Kingdom and there is still a very small number of ruins remaining.
Morning transfer to Anuradhapura, Explore the ruins of Anuradhapura – Sri Lanka’s first capital, which was the greatest monastic city of the ancient world and was ruled from the 4thcentury B.C. to 11th century A.D. by more than 100 Sri Lankan kings. Visit the many temples, the sacred Bo Tree – a sampling of the original sacred tree in Budda Gaya under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment — and Mihintale where Buddhism originated on the island in 247 BC. Stay at Palm Garden Village, the most tranquil hotel in the region.
Head to Polonnaruwa, the famous medieval capital. After visiting the museum here, explore the impressive ancient sculptures of Lord Buddha at the Gal Viahara, ruins of palaces and monasteries. Travel on to Sigiriya. Check-in to Sigiriya Village, situated at the base of the Sigiriya rock fortress. Rise early and climb the magnificent rock fortress. Dambulla Cave Temple is also a must-see with its rock ceiling covered in one large sweep of colourful frescoes and scores of ancient Buddha statues. If time permits you can also visit Pidurangala rock.
Head to the central hills. En route, visit Matale’s Aluvihara rock temple where the oral teachings of the Buddha were committed to writing for the first time in 3rd century AD. Once in Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth where a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha’s is enshrined. Travel in August and experience one of Asia’s finest cultural pageants – the magnificent Kandy Perehara when a tooth relic of Lord Buddha encased in a golden casket, is taken in procession along the streets of Kandy along with Kandyan chiefs in their traditional royal attire, thousands of dancers, and drummers. If you wish to add in a couple of nights we can take you see the veddha community in Maiyangana “people of the forest", are the minority indigenous inhabitants of Sri Lanka
Enjoy the southern highlands – a stirring land of lush tea plantations, majestic peaks and rushing waterfalls. Stay at Kelburne Mountain View Cottages where the spectacular views extend over five provinces. Stroll along the tea estate; visit the tea factory, and several waterfalls that surround this area. Also you can drive down to Ella or take a short train ride to Demodara and visit Ella, nine arch and little Adams peak on the way back.
Journey to the sacred town of Kataragama in the southeast. Check-in to Mandara Rosen, a convenient base for visiting the sights. Experience Kataragama’s Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Christian shrines and catch a mesmerizing pooja with the air of burning incense, oil lamps and clanging bells. Visit the tranquil temples of Tissamaharama. Consider a wildlife safari into nearby Yala National Park.
Your final days on the island will be spent on the South West Coast beaches. Visit the Galle Fort also known as the Dutch Fort, arrange a local cooking demo to learn and taste some of the local dishes and many spices used in cooking. Visit a turtle Hatchery or swim with the turtles, also you can do some Yoga, meditation and Buddhist discussions, or just relax on some of the nicest beaches in Sri Lanka After your beach stay Transfer directly to the airport to catch your flight home.
