Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle
Discover the history of this fascinating country on a tour of its cultural triangle, from the dominating Sigiriya Rock Fortress to enchanting Gal Vihara.
Your Itinerary
DAY 1: Depart UK.
DAY 2: Arrive Colombo - Sigiriya.
On arrival in Colombo you will be met by our representative and transferred to Sigiriya. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the town, founded around the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (or Lion Rock). (D)
DAY 3: Sigiriya - Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Sigiriya.
After breakfast, a short journey through lush Sri Lankan countryside takes you to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city is considered sacred to the Buddhist world and is surrounded by monasteries. Your city tour takes in the well-preserved ruins of this area and the Sri Maha Bodhi (or Bo Tree), the oldest tree in the world with a recorded planting date. This remarkable tree was a sapling taken from the Jaya Siri Maha Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. Later visit the pilgrimage site of Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya.
This morning visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a giant magma plug which has served both as a long-standing Buddhist monastery and a fortress. Surrounded by a network of gardens and moats, it is an historical, geological and anthropological landmark. The ancient ruins of the upper palace built by King Kasyapa can also be found on the summit, which at 656 feet above sea level affords magnificent views of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside. On the way to the top, you will see the famous 'Cloud Maidens' frescoes painted on the rock wall. After lunch visit the ruins of Polonnaruwa, where you will see the remains of the Royal Palace, the statue of King Parakramabahu, the Thuparama Image house, and the captivating Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara - a well-preserved and fine example of ancient rock cut sculpture.
DAY 5: Sigiriya - Beach resort.
Your fascinating cultural tour of Sri Lanka draws to a close today with a visit to the Dambulla Rock Cave Temples - five fantastically preserved caverns containing frescoes and statues of Buddha. Afterwards, transfer to your chosen beach resort. (B, L, D)
DAY 6 to 9: Beach resort.
Relax at your beach resort. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Beach resort - Colombo - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
DAY 11: Home landing in the UK.
Accommodation on Tour
Colombo: Ramada Colombo; Sigiriya: Sigiriya Village Hotel.
Note: Tour hotels will be as specified or alternatives of a similar standard.
Avani Hotel, Bentota
The Avani is a superb choice for a relaxing and peaceful finale to your tour. Situated on a glorious stretch of beach and encircled by tranquil gardens.
Location: Directly on the beach about 66 kilometres to Colombo and 1 kilometre to the main resort of Bentota.
Facilities: Swimming pool; restaurant serving both Sri Lankan and continental food; 3 bars; spa centre offering a variety of health and beauty treatments; watersports available nearby (separate management) include windsurfing, jetskiing, waterskiing, diving and snorkelling; laundry; lounge area with TV; internet kiosk; 24 hour room service.
Price includes: Bed & breakfast in a twin room with private facilities, air-conditioning; balcony or terrace.
Options: Superior Room.
Official category: 3 star plus.
Things to note...
Guide
As a minimum you will have the services of a driver/guide.
Visa Information
All tourists have to purchase a tourist visa online prior to travel at www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The cost online is USD$30. There are additional fees for the purchase of a visa on arrival.
Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle 8 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
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Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle
Price from £1639
Prices are per person
What's Included
- Flights UK - Colombo - UK
- Accommodation on tour in a twin room with private facilities
- Meals on tour 8 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 8 dinners (D)
- Travel on tour by minibus
- English speaking guide on tour and local representative in resort
- Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
- All local and airport taxes/service charges
Holiday highlights
- Anuradhapura
- Mihintale
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara
- Dambulla Rock cave temple
Departures from
- London Heathrow
- Manchester
- Birmingham
- Glasgow
- London Gatwick
Departures on:
- Sundays - 2013
- Sundays - 2014
Departures between
25 Aug 2013 to 16 Mar 2014
