What to expect
Sri Lanka is extraordinarily rich in archaeological, cultural and heritage sites. Its early Kings established and built vast kingdoms with many now classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore a number of ancient sites in this significant region of the island’s rich history, culture and religion to discover important and lesser-known sites, manmade reservoirs and monuments in a region known as the Cultural Triangle.
Your Journey Begins
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where a Wildlife Safari representative will warmly welcome you and escort you by private vehicle to your hotel in nearby Negombo.
Overnight – Jetwing Blue
After a leisurely breakfast drive north east heading for the famous Cultural Triangle. Continue through the dry zone to Habarana in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
Overnight – Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
Up early to visit the dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress built during the reign of King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD. The rock citadel rises from the jungle and the climb to the summit offers extraordinary views. Admire the Heavenly Maiden frescoes and Mirror Wall with its ancient graffiti, continue to the Lion Paws to reach the summit and ancient ruins of the palace complex. In the afternoon travel to Polonnaruwa, the royal medieval capital from 1073 century to explore the ancient ruins and admire the significant statues of Buddha carved from massive slabs of granite.
Overnight – Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
Depart for Dambulla, a UNESCO world heritage site, the largest and best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka containing religious frescoes and carved colourful statues. Continue along the spice route to Matale to visit a spice farm to see spices growing and learn about the flavours of Sri Lanka cuisine. Continue south to the scenic town of Kandy to visit the island’s most revered Buddhist relic in the golden roofed Temple of the Tooth.
Overnight – Amaya Hills
Today travel the scenic route heading for Colombo, the capital. The coastal city with its colourful history dates back as far as the 5th century at a time when Colombo’s small but significant port was ideally located for the prosperous east west sea trade.
Overnight – Taj Samudra
Today meet up with a local Colombo resident on a walking tour of the Pettah market district and around the historical fort area. A vibrant city with modern buildings, Colombo has a delightful charm with its historic fort area, colonial buildings and bustling Pettah bazaar.
Overnight – Taj Samudra
Today your chauffeur guide will transfer you to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward travel arrangements.
Add a few extra days to our Cultural Sojourn for a more in-depth journey and get to explore Anuradhapura, the largest of the ancient cities with its vast ruins, crumbling temples and stupas. Or add a safari for a wildlife encounter in Wilpattu, the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Ask our Indian Ocean Experts to custom design your perfect Cultural Sojourn.
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For over 5 decades, Wildlife Safari has been curating luxury safaris and tours for the discerning traveler. We would love to chat about your next adventure. Leave us your details below to get in touch about this journey.
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Wildlife Safari established the Perth, Australia office in 1987 offering a portfolio of destinations within Africa, the Indian Ocean and India.
