Cultural Capitals Tour
Discover the true essence of Sri Lanka through its cherished cultural landmarks! Embark on a journey through the island’s ancient cities and sacred sites – from the magnificent ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the stunning artistry of Sigiriya, and the tranquil beauty of Kandy – an immersive journey into the vibrant heritage of the island that allows time for exploring serene forest monasteries, fascinating rock temples, lively village life, and traditions that beautifully define the island’s identity. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport. Travel to the coastal town of Negombo. Relax on the beach or explore its colonial churches and canals. Overnight stay in Negombo.
Negombo to Anuradhapura
Head north to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit key sites, including Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiri Monastery, and the holy Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Mihintale & Aukana Excursion
Explore Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and climb its sacred rock. Later, visit the towering Aukana Buddha Statue, carved from a single granite rock in the 5th century. Return and overnight in Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa via Ritigala
En route to Polonnaruwa, stop at the mystical forest monastery ruins of Ritigala. Then explore the second ancient capital, Polonnaruwa, with its intricate stone carvings, royal palace ruins, and Gal Vihara Buddha statues. Overnight in Polonnaruwa.
Sigiriya & Village Experience
Drive to Sigiriya and climb the Lion Rock Fortress, known for its ancient frescoes and dramatic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional village tour with a bullock cart ride, canoe trip, and local lunch. Overnight in Sigiriya.
Dambulla & Nalanda Gedige – Transfer to Kandy
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, famous for its Buddhist murals and statues. On the way to Kandy, stop at Nalanda Gedige, a unique fusion of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Arrive in Kandy, the hill capital. Overnight in Kandy.
Cultural Sights of Kandy
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most sacred shrine. Walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. In the evening, enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance performance. Overnight in Kandy.
Kandy to Matale – Spice Gardens & Aluvihara
Travel to Matale to visit a local spice garden and learn about traditional herbal remedies. Explore the Aluvihara Rock Temple, where the Pali Buddhist scriptures were first written down, and spend the night in Kandy or Matale.ourney.
Kandy to Colombo via Pinnawala
En route to Colombo, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to witness the feeding and bathing of elephants. Arrive in Colombo for a brief city tour covering Independence Square, Galle Face Green, and Gangaramaya Temple. Overnight in Colombo.
Departure from Colombo
Enjoy breakfast and some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward j
- Negombo – Colonial coastal town with relaxed charm
- Anuradhapura – Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital and Buddhist centre
- Mihintale – The birthplace of Buddhism on the island
- Aukana – Home to the ancient standing Buddha statue
- Ritigala – Mystical forest monastery with archaeological ruins
- Polonnaruwa – Medieval royal city and UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Sigiriya – An Iconic rock fortress and frescoes
- Dambulla – Cave temple complex with centuries-old murals
- Nalanda Gedige – Fusion temple of Hindu and Buddhist design
- Kandy – Cultural capital and sacred Temple of the Tooth
- Matale – Known for spice gardens and the Aluvihara rock temple
- Pinnawala – Elephant orphanage and conservation centre
- Colombo – Sri Lanka’s dynamic commercial capital