Ceylon Rhythms: 5 Days of Sri Lankan Highlights

Highlights of the Trip

Set off on an unforgettable 5-day journey through vibrant Sri Lanka, on a tour jam-packed with cultural highlights and natural beauty.

Your adventure begins with an optional visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll witness the heartwarming bond between rescued elephants and their caretakers. Next, you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temples, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with intricate cave art and sculptures that whisper tales of the island’s rich history. Your journey then takes you to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, where the sacred tooth of Buddha resides, offering a spiritual experience like no other. In Kandy, prepare to be enchanted by the remarkable Cultural Show, showcasing traditional Kandyan dance and music. Finally, delve into the heart of Colombo City, becoming immersed in the city’s architectural charm with a city tour, visiting landmarks such as the National Museum and Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct. Your journey isn’t complete of course, without a shopping tour in Pettah, where bustling markets brim with spices, textiles, and local crafts.

Get ready for a whirlwind of culture, history and flavours that will leave you with lasting memories of this beautiful island nation.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

En Route to Sigiriya

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (optional): A renowned sanctuary and conservation centre where visitors can witness the rehabilitation and care of orphaned elephants, fostering a connection between humans these majestic creatures.

• Dambulla Cave Temples: An UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting ancient rock cave complexes adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 statues, offering a spiritual and cultural journey through history.

Kandy

• The Temple of the Tooth Relic: Housing the sacred tooth relic of Buddha, this revered pilgrimage site and UNESCO World Heritage site, draws devotees and tourists alike to witness its cultural and religious significance.
• Kandy Cultural Show: A vibrant performance, featuring traditional Kandyan dance, music, and firewalking, providing a captivating spectacle that showcases the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Colombo

City tour and shopping tour, including:

• Gangaramaya Temple: A vibrant Buddhist temple with eclectic architecture, housing an intriguing blend of religious artifacts, statues, and a sacred Bodhi Tree.
• Independence Square: A historical monument commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence, featuring colonial-inspired architecture, beautiful surroundings, and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Galle Face Green Promenade: A sprawling promenade along the Indian Ocean, offering a scenic view, popular for evening strolls, local street food, and vibrant social gatherings against the backdrop of the sea.
• Pettah Market: A bustling, vibrant market, showcasing a kaleidoscope of goods from textiles to spices, providing a lively and colourful shopping experience.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Sigiriya Rock Exploration: Ascend the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, marvelling at ancient frescoes and the breathtaking view from the summit.

Village Safari: Take the opportunity to experience rural life with a village safari near Sigiriya, engaging in activities such as bullock cart rides and traditional cooking classes.

Elephant Safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla: You might like to incorporate an elephant safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park to witness large gatherings of elephants in their natural habitat.

Kandy Lake Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes and iconic structures like the Royal Palace.

Colombo Cycling Tour: Discover Colombo on a cycling tour, exploring historical landmarks, local markets, and the city’s diverse neighbourhoods.

Enjoy Traditional Cultural Performances: Attend traditional dance and music performances showcasing Sri Lankan culture, often organised by hotels or cultural centres.

Photography Tours: Capture the essence of Sri Lanka with photography tours, focusing on architectural marvels, religious ceremonies, and the vibrant local life.

Street Food Tours: Immerser yourself in the local culinary scene with a street food tour, sampling authentic Sri Lankan flavours and experiencing the bustling markets.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Sri Lanka

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, such as Sri Lankan Rice and Curry, a delightful medley of rice served with an array of curries, sambols, and chutneys. Indulge in the spicy goodness of Kottu Roti, a popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood. Don’t miss the aromatic and creamy Chicken or Fish Curry, infused with local spices and coconut milk. Hoppers, both plain and egg varieties, offer a crispy and bowl-shaped alternative to traditional flatbreads. For sweet notes, try Watalappam, a delectable coconut custard, or Kiri Pani (Milk Rice), a dish often associated with cultural celebrations.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Beira Lake Boat Ride: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Beira Lake, located in the heart of Colombo, surrounded by urban landscapes.

Colombo Harbour Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise in Colombo Harbour, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and port activities.

Victoria Reservoir Boat Safari: Experience a boat safari on the Victoria Reservoir near Kandy, providing opportunities for bird watching and scenic views.

Kandy Lake Boat Ride: Take a boat ride on Kandy Lake, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and views of the city.

Accommodation of this Tour

Colombo: Hotel in Colombo

Sigiriya: Hotel in Sigiriya

Kandy: Hotel in Kandy

Trincomalee: Beach Resort in Trincomalee

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Itinerary Details

Arrive in Sri Lanka. Clear immigration and collect your luggage. Meet your guide in the arrival area (they’ll wait with a paging board). Transfer from Airport to Colombo – approx. 1 hr. Check into hotel into Colombo for overnight stay.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transportation, accommodation, and meals at hotel included.

Day 2:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlights include an (optional) visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which both breeds wild elephants and nurtures and protects rescued elephants found in jungles, offering heartwarming encounter. Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO site, date back to the 1^st century BCE and house intricate Buddhist murals and statues, serving as a significant pilgrimage site.

• Itinerary Details

Breakfast at hotel. Travel to Sigiriya – approx. 4 hrs. Optional visit en route to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Travel to Dambulla. Visit Cave Temple in Dambulla. Continue to Sigiriya – approx. 20 mins. Check into hotel in Sigiriya for overnight stay.

• Cultural Experiences

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage offers a captivating cultural encounter, where visitors witness Sri Lanka’s deep connection with these majestic creatures. The Dambulla Cave Temples, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site, invite travellers to explore intricate cave art and sculptures, providing insight into the country’s rich religious and artistic heritage.

• Local Cuisine

For a taste of local cuisine try aromatic rice and curry dishes, spicy sambols, and tropical fruits.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage showcases the heartwarming sight of rescued elephants, Dambulla Cave Temples’ ancient art and Sigiriya’s iconic rock fortress immerse visitors in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and historical splendour.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transportation and accommodation included.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlights offer a terrific blend of history and culture. The Temple of the Tooth Relic is believed to hold a sacred tooth of Buddha since the 4^th century. The Cultural Show nearby showcases traditional dance and music, enriching the city’s heritage.

• Itinerary Details

After breakfast travel to Kandy – approx. 2.5hrs. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Enjoy the Cultural Show. Check into hotel in Kandy for overnight stay.

• Cultural Experiences

Witness traditional music, drumming, and Kandyan dance at The Cultural Show.

• Local Cuisine

Enjoy Kandyan rice and curry, indulge in creamy milk rice, and relish tropical fruits like mangoes and jackfruit.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

As well as The Temple of the Tooth Relic, discover Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and Kandy Lake, offering captivating cultural and natural sights.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All travel and accommodation included.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4:

• Highlights and Activities

Today, a tour of Colombo City unveils Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, with visits to iconic sites such as Gangaramaya Temple and Independence Square. Followed by a shopping tour in Pettah, where bustling markets offer everything from spices to textiles.

• Itinerary Details

After breakfast, travel to Colombo – approx. 3 ½ hrs. Enjoy a tour of Colombo city and shopping tour. Check in at hotel in Colombo and spend rest of your day at leisure.

• Cultural Experiences

Today’s tour of Colombo city immerses you in Sri Lanka’s culture. From the serene Gangaramaya Temple to the historic Independence Square. The shopping tour of Pettah adds a vibrant touch, letting you explore bustling markets brimming with spices, textiles, and local crafts.

• Local Cuisine

Colombo City’s culinary delights include seafood at Galle Face Green, fusion cuisine at Ministry of Crab, and exploring the tantalising street food in Pettah, from kottu roti to hoppers.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Colombo City has many landmarks. Where time allows, explore the stunning architecture of the Old Parliament Building, the peaceful Viharamahadevi Park, the National Museum, Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, and serene Beira Lake.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport, accommodation, and meals included.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 5:

• Itinerary Details

After breakfast travel to airport for your departure – 1hr.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transportation to airport, accommodation, and breakfast included.

✓ Breakfast

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £403
– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing
– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

FAQs

1.What transportation is provided during the tour?

All transportation is included in the tour package as per the itinerary. This includes transfers from the airport to Colombo, travel to various destinations such as Sigiriya and Kandy, and a city tour of Colombo.

2.Are meals included in the tour package?

Breakfast is included throughout the tour. Lunch and Dinner are also included on Day 4.

3.What are some cultural experiences included in the itinerary?

Cultural experiences include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples, witnessing a traditional Cultural Show in Kandy, and touring Colombo city to explore its cultural landmarks.

4.What types of cuisine can I expect to try during the tour?

There are many opportunities to try Sri Lankan cuisine, including aromatic rice and curry dishes, spicy sambols, tropical fruits, Kandyan rice and curry, creamy milk rice, and street food in Pettah.

5.Are there any specific landmarks or attractions included in the tour?

Yes, the itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Dambulla Cave Temples, Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, Gangaramaya Temple and Independence Square in Colombo, among others.

6.Is there free time available for personal exploration?

Yes, there is some free time available for personal exploration, particularly in Colombo. You can spend your leisure time exploring the city, shopping in Pettah, or relaxing at your hotel.

7.What should I wear during the tour?

It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for warm weather, as well as modest attire when visiting religious sites. Additionally, you may want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for outdoor activities.

8.What is the currency used in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Currency exchange facilities are available at the airport, banks, and authorised exchange offices.

9.What is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka for this tour?

Dry Season (December to March):This period is ideal for visiting the west and south coasts of Sri Lanka, including Colombo. The weather is typically dry and sunny, making it perfect for exploring cities, cultural sites, and beaches.

10.Are there any cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Sri Lanka?

Visitors to Sri Lanka should greet locals with respect, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, remove shoes before entering temples or someone’s home, and avoid public displays of affection. It’s also customary to offer and receive items with the right hand.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Sri Lanka, meet your guide at the airport, and transfer to Colombo for overnight stay.

Day 2: Explore the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Dambulla Cave Temples en route to Sigiriya. Check into Sigiriya hotel for overnight stay.

Day 3: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and enjoy a Cultural Show in Kandy. Overnight stay in Kandy.

Day 4: Tour Colombo city, including visits to Gangaramaya Temple and Pettah markets. Check into Colombo hotel for leisure time.

Day 5: Transfer to the airport for departure.