Mystical Temples of the North
Discover a captivating and lesser-known side of Sri Lanka filled with devotion and timeless beauty on an incredible journey through the island’s rich spiritual and cultural north, from the ancient Buddhist capital of Anuradhapura to the vibrant Hindu temples of Jaffna – experience enlightening moments in the serenity of sacred sites: Mihintale, Thanthirimale, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, and the tranquil Madhu Church, all while traversing a landscape steeped in history and heritage.
Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Anuradhapura
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and travel directly to Anuradhapura, the island’s first capital and a revered spiritual city. Settle into your hotel and unwind. Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.
Explore Sacred Anuradhapura
Spend the day discovering the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, including the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Jetavanaramaya, Abhayagiriya Monastery, and Thuparamaya Dagoba. Enjoy the serenity of this living Buddhist pilgrimage site. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Excursion to Mihintale & Thanthirimale
Begin with a visit to Mihintale, considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Climb its scenic rock summit and visit ancient stupas and inscriptions. Later, head to Thanthirimale, a peaceful temple site nestled amid rocky outcrops and forest. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura to Jaffna
Drive north to Jaffna, a region rich in Tamil culture, Hindu temples, and colonial influence. En route, pass Elephant Pass and enjoy the shifting northern landscapes. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaffna.
Temples & Heritage of Jaffna
Explore the spiritual and cultural heart of Jaffna by visiting the grand Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, the ancient Naguleswaram Shiva Temple, and the Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple, all accessible by boat. Optional stop at the Jaffna Public Library or Jaffna Fort. Overnight in Jaffna.
Jaffna to Vavuniya via Kadurugoda & Madhu Church
Depart Jaffna and stop at Kadurugoda Vihara, a quiet and mysterious Buddhist site with small stupas. Then visit Madhu Church, a historic Catholic shrine set in peaceful woodland. Continue to Vavuniya, a cultural crossroads. Overnight stay in Vavuniya.
Vavuniya to Dambulla via Aukana Buddha Statue
Travel south to Dambulla, stopping at the impressive Aukana Buddha, a massive ancient statue carved from stone. Continue to Dambulla and visit the famous Golden Cave Temple, filled with stunning murals and centuries-old Buddha images, overnight in Dambulla or Sigiriya.
Departure via Colombo
Depending on your flight schedule, you can either transfer to Colombo for your onward departure or enjoy an optional city tour, if time permits. The tour concludes with treasured memories of Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural north.
- Colombo – Arrival and departure hub
- Anuradhapura – Ancient Buddhist capital and sacred city
- Mihintale – Spiritual site marking the origin of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
- Thanthirimale – Remote temple complex surrounded by nature
- Jaffna – Cultural capital of the north, with iconic Hindu temples
- Nainativu – Island temple site accessible by boat
- Kadurugoda – Quiet Buddhist stupa complex near Jaffna
- Madhu – Home to the historic Catholic shrine, Madhu Church
- Vavuniya – A Transitional town between the north and the cultural triangle
- Aukana – Site of the colossal ancient standing Buddha
- Dambulla – Location of the famed cave temple and murals