Description

This new short Sri Lanka itinerary takes in some of the must-see highlights in Sri Lanka. Climb to the top of the spectacular Sigiriya Rock Fortress, go on a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, see the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, visit a tea plantation and explore small villages on foot.

Highlights

• Climb the incredible Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
• Spot wildlife in Minneriya National Park.
• Catch a bullock and cart through rural Sri Lanka.
• Explore the hillside city of Kandy.
• Learn about Buddhist practices in ancient temples.
• Take a tour of a working tea factory.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Dambulla/Sigiriya/Minneriya National Park

A big town near the centre of the island, Dambulla is a great base to explore the wide array of natural wonders and historic sites in this fascinating area. Built as a royal citadel on top of a 200m high rock mass, Sigiriya is an impressive fortress with some fantastic views, glorious water gardens and 5th-century frescoes. Minneriya National Park plays host to some of Sri Lanka's favorite creatures - sambar deer, wild boar, peacocks, water buffalo, crocodiles and, of course, elephants.

Day 3 Dambulla

Dambulla's most famous attraction is a beautifully preserved complex of cave temples, which contain paintings and ancient Buddha statues, some carved from the solid rock.

Days 4-5 Digana

The village of Digana is home to Tamarind Gardens, a unique homestay on a working farm - experience rural life and join in as many activities as you wish.

Days 6-8 Negombo

Get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka in Negombo - a historical commercial centre surrounded by a fascinating network of canals teeming with rural life.

Circle Sri Lanka

15 days

Description

A jewel in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating culture, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches. From ancient Anuradhapura city and the well-preserved Polonnaruwa ruins, to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the impressive Sigiriya rock fortress, Sri Lankan culture spans more than 2,000 years and still remains vibrant and alive today. Trek through lush tea plantations, indulge in seafood feasts in quaint fishing villages and dip your toes in the calm, clear waters of Mirissa beach on this all-encompassing adventure for those seeking a unique travel experience.

Highlights

• Bliss out beachside in Mirissa.
• Learn the secrets of Sri Lankan cuisine in Bandarawela.
• Shop up a storm in Colombo.
• Walk the ramparts of Galle.
• Witness elephants bathing in the river in Kandy.
• Visit the sacred Bo Tree in Anuradhapura.
• Feast on fresh seafood on Negombo beach.
• Work up a sweat trekking to Sigiriya rock.
• Cycle through the ancient Polonnaruwa ruins.

Itinerary

Day 1 Negombo

Get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka in Negombo - a historical commercial centre surrounded by a fascinating network of canals teeming with rural life.

Days 2-3 Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka's most extensive and important ancient city, Anuradhapura was ruled by Sinhalese kings when it rose to its glittering greatness over 2,200 years ago.

Day 4 Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was the ancient capital of the Indian Chola Dynasty and its 1000-year-old remains feature beautiful palaces, temples, stupas and massive stone Buddhas.

Day 5 Dambulla Caves/Sigiriya

Dambulla's most famous attraction is a beautifully preserved complex of cave temples, which contain paintings and ancient Buddha statues, some carved from the solid rock. Built as a royal citadel on top of a 200m high rock mass, Sigiriya is an impressive fortress with some fantastic views, glorious water gardens and 5th-century frescoes.

Days 6-7 Kandy

Sri Lanka's culture capital, Kandy is a pleasant city surrounded by lush green countryside - it's home to a picturesque lake, old shops, a bustling market and some great restaurants.

Days 8-10 Bandarawela/Haputale

Another hill town once popular with British plantation managers, Bandarawela sits amidst picturesque vegetable gardens in the cool, green highlands. Set in Sri Lanka's lush central highlands, Haputale is surrounded by picturesque tea plantations, misty cloud forests and epic views.

Days 11-12 Mirissa

The beautiful beach town of Mirissa is set on a long curve of sand with lovely calm clear waters for swimming and stunning sunsets.

Day 13 Galle

Used by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British during its colourful history, the port town of Galle features an impressive Dutch fort with extensive walls containing many interesting buildings.

Days 14-15 Colombo

Sri Lanka's commercial heart, Colombo is a cosmopolitan mix of vibrant street markets, colonial buildings, interesting museums, fine restaurants and great shopping opportunities.