Compare Cultural Highlights Tour by Direct Traveller vs Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group, 2022 2023 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1:

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya

You will be met and assisted on arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Sri Lanka, by Direct Traveller representative and introduced to your English speaking chauffeur guide.Transfer from Airport to Sigiriya (approx. 4 hours) Overnight Stay at Hotel Sigiriya

(Two nights stay in a Standard room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 2:

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya

Climb Sigiriya, Sri Lanka's most popular historic site, Sigiriya is the 5th century rock citadel of King Kasyapa. This 200 meters citadel was home to his palace on top of the rock and derives its name as it appears to resemble the outline of a lion from distance. King Kasyapa built his palace and decorated its walls with colorful frescoes which can even be seen today. These frescoes, along with India¿s Ajantha cave frescoes are world renowned for lasting through the ages and their awe-inspiring beauty. When you climb along the side of the rock, about halfway up, you will encounter a gateway that although in ruins, resembles a gigantic lions paw. Today, Sigiriya is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site and remains as one of the best examples of ancient urban planning in Sri Lanka. Transfer from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa (approx. 1 hour & 15 minutes) Polonnaruwa became capital of Sir Lanka following the decline of Anuradhapura. It was declared a capital by King Vijayabahu the 1st who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070. Today, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa is a World Heritage Site. The golden age of this glorious city was under the reign of King Parakramabahu the 1st who oversaw the construction of one of the greatest irrigation systems the country has seen, the Parakrama  Samudhraya, which covers an area of 6,000 acres. The ruins of the Royal Palace and various buildings and structures can be seen even today. Other highlight of this city is the Gal Viharaya which has 3 splendid statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary' and 'Recumbent' postures carved out of rock, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, the statue of King Parakramabahu, the former Temple of Tooth Relic, Shivan Temple, Lankathilake, Watadage, Galpotha and Kiri Viharaya.Transfer from Polonnaruwa to SigiriyaOvernight Stay at Hotel Sigiriya

Day 3:

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya

Overnight Hotel Suisse.

(One night stay in a Standard room on bed breakfast basis)

A transfer from Sigiriya to Matale (approx. 1 hour & 30 minutes) Matale, known for its welcoming climate is world famous for its spice gardens.Here one may experience the intricate processes that result in Sri Lanka producing some of the best spices in the world. What is more, a cookery demonstration too will be held allowing visitors to learn to prepare traditional curries using local spices. Transfer from Matale to Kandy (approx. 1 hour & 30 minutes) Explore the city of Kandy which was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a World Heritage Site. The name 'Kandy' conjures visions of splendour and magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. Drive around the Kandy lake built by the last Sinhala king, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798. Visit the Kandy town, the bazaar, an arts & crafts centre and a gem museum / lapidary. Also visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and thereafter witness a cultural show.

Overnight Stay at Hotel Suisse.

(One night stay in a Standard room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 4:

This day you will proceed to the airport or to your beach stay resort.

Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka. A land of historic ruins, sweeping beaches and mouth-watering food, you’ve made it to paradise. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel, the Taj Samudra, Colombo. A contemporary, luxury build situated on the seafront, it provides an idyllic ambience at sunset. Unwind and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow travellers and Travel Director at 19:00, for a Welcome Dinner with drinks.

Day 2: Explore Colombo

There’s no better way to get to know a city than to walk through its back streets and experience it like a local. In the morning, head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the city's hidden treasures. Journey through a myriad of buildings that date back from 17th century and were erected mostly during Dutch and British rule. Visit Pettah Market, where locals head to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, garments and jewellery. This market place is older than the buildings around it and an area best explored with a local. Later, board your customised tuk-tuk and head out to explore the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in Colombo's oldest neighbourhoods. Cruise the city streets as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean and the city lights spring to life around a pulse of evening activity.

Day 3: Welcome to the Jungle Relaxed Start

After breakfast, begin your journey to Wilpattu National Park. A unique complex of over fifty wetlands and gravel roads that trace watering holes, the perfect place to observe wildlife. On arrival, check into your luxury safari camp located on the boarder of the park, a quintessential glamping experience and a satisfying blend of comfort and nature. Enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. In the evening, venture deep into the thick wilderness. Explore the park by jeep safari, taking the back roads in search for Sri Lanka's big four—leopards, elephants, sloth bears and deer.

Day 4: Jungle Safari

Enjoy journeying through the jungle on your morning and afternoon safaris. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, buffalos, mongooese and turtles.

Day 5: Wilpattu to Sigiriya

In the morning head south, making your way to Sigiriya. Stop on your journey at the Anuradhapura temple complex, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, sprawling and with a rich collection of archaeological wonders. Now a World Heritage site, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its ancient ruins with your Travel Director. Meet a practicing Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour of the Ritigala jungle’s enveloped paths. Hear the tales and secrets of the forest dwelling monks that once inhabited the reserve. Begin your gradual ascent, making your way through seemingly endless paths and flights of carved stairs. This was once a place of meditation, congregation, teaching and general life for a monastic community who today devote their lives to simple living in the forest.

Day 6: Exploring Sigiriya's Ancient Kingdom

Surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is steeped in history. Explore Sigiriya with Insight Choice. Choose to climb Sigiriya Rock.  Alternatively, visit Sigiriya Botanical Gardens. Later, visit the historic city of Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms. During a tuk-tuk ride, explore the ancient remains of temples and tombs. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Colourful Caves and Rainforests

Today you’ll visit the colourful Dambulla Caves. Also known as the Golden Temple caves, this World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Take in its mighty artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha as you explore with your group. S Stop at Tamarind Gardens for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This local farm has been working to supply community members with access to clean water, nutritional food, and supports the village towards a sustainable future. Later, arrive in Kandy. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest and tea plantations, this sacred city if famous for its Buddhist sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth shrine. Once here you’ll enjoy a cultural evening of drums and a dance performance. Your accommodation for the evening is, Mahaweli Reach. Located next to the mighty Mahaweli River, this traditional hotel is based in the hill capital of Sri Lanka and offers incredible culture, history and authentic dining options.

Day 8: Tea Country Hills Relaxed Start

In the morning head to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of Buddha is located here.Later meet Rahju, a local artist, at his contemporary art gallery. Enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea. Continue to Nuwara Eliya. A city in Sri Lanka’s tea country hills, this pretty destination is famous for Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu shrine and Galway’s Land National Park. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration. Learn to cook Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine with a local chef, before indulging in the fruits of your hard work.

Day 9: Exploring Nuwara Eliya

Rise early this morning for an excursion to Horton Plains for a trek to World's End, where a stunning escarpment that plunges 880 metres down to the jungle floor. World’s End is situated in one of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka and is the only one where you can are able walk freely as there are no elephants. Stand in awe and capture incredible views of the expansive plateau, before mist and cloud obscure the scene. In the afternoon, learn everything there is to know about Ceylon tea during a visit to a tea plantation and garden. Walk through the plantation during plucking time and spend time with a tea plucker to learn about their life, before enjoying a tasting session hosted by an expert. In the evening, toast to your travels with your new friends over a Celebration Dinner at your hotel.

Day 10: Goodbye Colombo

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers, as your journey comes to an end. You’ll be driven back to Colombo airport for your onward flight. A stop will be made in Colombo for those extending their stay.