From Ruins to Relics
Journey through the timeless heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilisations – explore the majestic ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, discover sacred cave temples in Dambulla, forest monasteries hidden in Ritigala and the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy – and unveil the stories etched in stone and sacred relics that continue to shape Sri Lanka’s spiritual soul.
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Dambulla
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and begin your journey towards the Cultural Triangle. Stop briefly in Kurunegala before reaching Dambulla. Settle in and relax—optional evening visit to a local temple. Overnight stay in Dambulla.
Day 2: Explore Dambulla & Sigiriya
In the morning, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with golden Buddha statues and ancient frescoes. Later, climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an architectural wonder with landscaped gardens and legendary frescoes, overnight in Dambulla or Sigiriya.
Day 3: Day Trip to Polonnaruwa
Travel to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, a treasure trove of well-preserved ruins. Explore the Royal Palace, Vatadage, and the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara Buddha statues carved into stone. Return to Dambulla for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Dambulla to Anuradhapura via Ritigala
Journey to the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura, stopping en route to visit the mysterious Ritigala Forest Monastery, hidden amidst a nature reserve. On arrival, visit Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Day 5: Explore Ancient Anuradhapura
Spend the day exploring more of Anuradhapura’s vast archaeological sites, including Jetavanaramaya, Abhayagiriya, and Samadhi Buddha. Learn about monastic life, ancient irrigation, and religious rituals that still echo through the centuries. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Day 6: Anuradhapura to Kandy via Nalanda Gedige
Depart for Kandy, stopping at Nalanda Gedige, a unique ancient structure combining Buddhist and Hindu architectural elements. Arrive in Kandy and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic for the evening Puja ceremony. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 7: Departure via Colombo
Enjoy a morning stroll by Kandy Lake or visit a local craft market. Then travel to Colombo or directly to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure, completing your journey from the grand ruins to Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic.
- Colombo – Arrival and departure point
- Dambulla – Home to the famous cave temples and a central location in the Cultural Triangle
- Sigiriya – An Iconic rock fortress and ancient palace complex
- Polonnaruwa – Medieval capital with well-preserved archaeological ruins
- Ritigala – Forest monastery and ancient meditation retreat
- Anuradhapura – Sri Lanka’s sacred ancient capital and spiritual hub
- Nalanda Gedige – Hidden temple blending Buddhist and Hindu architecture
- Kandy – Hill capital and site of the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic