Sri Lanka Tour: From Elephants to Temples: A 7-Day Adventure

Highlights of the Trip

Set off on an exhilarating 7-day Sri Lanka tour. Perfect for nature enthusiasts (particularly those with a love of elephants!), outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike, this 6-night, 7-day Sri Lanka trip is jam-packed with sightseeing highlights and cultural experiences.

Begin your journey in Colombo and head to Sigiriya, with the en route option of visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary and conservation centre dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting orphaned and injured elephants. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, an UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 1^st century BC. From Sigiriya head to Polonnaruwa to see the Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites and later take a jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, where you’ll see herds of wild elephants and other animals in their natural habitat. Travel onto Kandywhere you’ll visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and enjoy an evening Cultural Show, featuring traditional Kandyan music and drumming. Enjoy a city tour and overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England”, before adventuring on to Yala National Park where you’ll round off your trip with another jeep safari, seeing more elephants, as well as wild boar, leopards, bears, peacocks and more. A truly special adventure of a lifetime, this weeklong Sri Lanka package trip offers a real blend of wildlife and spectacular scenery, cultural experiences, and history, plus plenty of delicious local cuisine along the way.

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Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Colombo

Places to visit if you have the time:

• Gangaramaya Temple: Discover spiritual tranquillity at Gangaramaya Temple, an iconic Buddhist Temple adorned with intricate architecture and religious artifacts.
• Independence Square: Stroll through the serene Independence Square, a historical landmark surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
• National Museum of Colombo: Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture at the National Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• Viharamahadevi Park: Relax in this scenic park, a popular green space featuring jogging paths, fountains, and a peaceful lake in the heart of Colombo.
• Colombo Fort: Explore the bustling Colombo Fort area, a vibrant business district with colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and a blend of historical and contemporary elements.

Sigiriya

• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Witness the heartwarming interaction between orphaned elephants and their caretakers at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, providing a unique and ethical elephant encounter.
• Dambulla Cave Temples: Explore the ancient marvels of Dambulla Cave Temples, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing intricate cave paintings and impressive rock-cut Buddha statues.

Polonnaruwa

• Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites: Step into history at Polonnaruwa’s Cultural Sites, where ancient ruins and temples unfold the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital, offering a glimpse into its rich heritage.
• Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari: Embark on a thrilling Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, famed for its Elephant Gathering, where herds of elephants gather around the scenic Minneriya Tank.

Kandy

• Temple of the Tooth Relic: Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, housing the sacred tooth of Buddha.
• The Cultural Show: Enhance your cultural experience at the Temple of the Tooth Relic by watching the vibrant Kandyan Cultural Show.

Nuwara Eliya

• Guided Tea Factory Tour: Delve into the world of Ceylon tea with a guided tour of a tea factory in Nuwara Eliya. Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy scenic views of lush plantations.

Yala

• Yala National Park Jeep Safari: Embark on an adventurous Jeep safari in Yala National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a plethora of bird species, in the midst of breathtaking landscapes.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Witness the cultural preservation of Sri Lanka’s deep connection with elephants at this wonderful Elephant Orphanage, where the humane care and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants showcase the nation’s reverence for these majestic creatures.

Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari: Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation efforts during a Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari, offering a unique encounter with elephants and diverse fauna in their natural habitat, reflecting the country’s commitment to ecological heritage.

The Kandyan Cultural Show: Experience the vibrant traditions of Kandy through its Cultural Show, a colourful spectacle of dance, music, and rituals that convey the rich cultural heritage of the Kandyan Kingdom, celebrating the island’s artistic diversity.

Guided Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory Tour: Uncover the cultural heritage of Ceylon tea through a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory. Gain insights into the art of tea productions, steeped in Sri Lanka’s colonial history, reflecting the cultural importance of this globally renowned beverage.

Yala National Park Jeep Safari: Explore the cultural connection between Sri Lankans and their natural environment during this special jeep safari. Encounter diverse wildlife, including leopards, in this protected area, illustrating the nation’s commitment to preserving the ecological and cultural treasures.

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 rice & curry, a staple featuring aromatic rice served with an array of curries, including dhal, coconut, sambol, and various vegetable or meat curries; hoppers, thin bowl shaped pancakes made from fermented rice batter, often served for breakfast or dinner with different accompaniments; kottu roti, a popular street food made by chopping flatbread, vegetables, and meat (or eggs) mixed with a flavourful blend of spices and sauces; string hoppers, delicate steamed rice noodle nests served with curries, coconut sambol, and dhal; fish ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of tamarind), black pepper, and other spices, creating a unique and tangy flavour; Sri Lankan devilled chicken, a spicy and flavourful chicken dish stir-fried with onions, peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices; pol sambol, a fiery coconut relish made with grated coconut, chilli, lime juice, and other spices, often enjoyed as a side dish; wambatu moju, a sweet and sour eggplant pickle; and kiribath, a ceremonial dish of milk rice, often enjoyed during special occasional and festivities, symbolising prosperity and good fortune.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Colombo Harbour Cruise: Explore the vibrant cityscape of Colombo from the waters, enjoying a harbour cruise that offers stunning views of the skyline, port activities, and nearby landmarks.

Madu River Boat Safari: Take a boat safari along the Madu River, south of Colombo, to witness the mangroves, abundant birdlife, and traditional fishing techniques.

Sigiriya Lake Cruise: Experience the tranquil waters surrounding Sigiriya on a boat cruise, offering unique perspectives of the iconic Sigiriya Rock and its lush surroundings.

Parakrama Samudra Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on this ancient reservoir in Polonnaruwa and witness the historical landscapes and ruins along its shores.

Kandy Lake Boat Ride: Leisurely cruise on the scenic Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooked by the Temple of the Tooth Relic, providing a serene escape in the heart of Kandy.

Gregory Lake Boat Ride: Experience the charm of Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya with a boat ride, surrounded by misty hills and tea plantations.

Yala National Park Boat Safari: Explore the waterways within Yala National Park on a boat safari, offering a unique opportunity to observe wildlife, including crocodiles and various bird species.

Accommodation of this Tour

Colombo: Hotel in Colombo

Sigiriya: Hotel in Sigiriya

Kandy: Hotel in Kandy

Nuwara Eliya: Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Yala: Hotel or other accommodation in Yala/Tissamaharam

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Itinerary Details

Arrive at airport. Clear immigration and collect luggage. Head to arrival lobby where your guide will be waiting for you with a paging board. Transfer from airport to Colombo – approx. 1hr. Check in at hotel in Colombo for overnight stay.

Day 2:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlights include an optional visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a renowned sanctuary and conservation centre dedicated to the welfare of orphaned and injured elephants. You will also enjoy a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temples, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Itinerary Details

Have breakfast. Drive to Sigiriya – approx. 4hrs. Optional visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Continue to Dambulla Cave Temple. Continue to Sigiriya. Check into hotel in Sigiriya for overnight stay.

• Cultural Experiences

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage not only provides a haven for orphaned and injured elephants but also offers a special cultural experience for visitors. Daily rituals such as the elephants’ river bath, where these gentle creatures are bathed and scrubbed by their mahouts (keepers), provide an authentic glimpse into the deep-rooted bond between humans and elephants in Sri Lankan culture. The orphanage also showcases traditional craftsmanship, allowing visitors to witness the creation of handmade paper and elephant dung paper products, highlighting sustainable practices and age-old skills.

• Local Cuisine

The local cuisine is a burst of flavour and aromatic spices. Take the opportunity to try dishes such as “Kottu Roti” (stir-fried chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood served with a spicy sauce). Vegetarians can enjoy “Hoppers”, a bowl-shaped pancake made from rice flour and often accompanied by “Sambol”, a fiery coconut relish.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Carved into a massive rock formation, the Dambulla Cave Temples house a stunning collection of over 150 exquisite Buddha statues, along with intricate murals that depict scenes from the life of Lord Buddha. Dating back to the 1^stCentury BC, these five caves have served as a place of worship for over two millennia, making them one of the most ancient and well-preserved temple complexes in Sri Lanka.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transport and accommodation included.

Day 3:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlights include a visit to the Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites, an UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 12^th century. You’ll also enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, best known for its awe-inspiring “Gathering of Elephants”, as this park hosts one of the largest Asian elephant gatherings in the world during the dry season.

• Itinerary Details

Have breakfast. Drive to Polonnaruwa – approx. 1 1/2hrs. Visit Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites. Continue to Minneriya – approx. 35 mins. Jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. Drive to Sigiriya – approx. 1hr. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

• Cultural Experiences

The Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of Sri Lanka’s medieval period, making this spot a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The site boasts beautifully preserved temples, statues, and sprawling palace complexes, showcasing the remarkable architectural and engineering skills of the time.

• Local Cuisine

Why not give “Lamprais” a try? This is a Dutch-influenced meal featuring rice, meat, and vegetables, all wrapped in a banana leaf for an exciting blend of flavours.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

The Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites were once the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka and remain full of archaeological treasures. Look out for the Gal Vihara, with its colossal rock-cut Buddha statues, and the stunning ruins of the Royal Palace. Get ready to witness some incredible wildlife during your jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. Jeep safaris in this park offer an incredible opportunity to see not only elephants but also sambar deer, leopards, and a variety of reptiles and colourful birds in their natural habitat.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transport and accommodation are included.

Day 4:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlights include a visit to The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, one of the most sacred and revered Buddhist sites in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses a relic believed to be a tooth of Lord Buddha. In the evening, enjoy The Cultural Show,

• Itinerary Details

Enjoy breakfast. Drive to Kandy – approx. 2 ½ hrs. Check into your hotel in Kandy. Visit Temple of the Tooth Relic. Enjoy an evening Cultural Show. Stay overnight in Kandy.

• Cultural Experiences

The Temple of the Tooth Relic stands as a symbol of profound spirituality and cultural heritage. It plays a central role in Sri Lankan Buddhism, particularly during the annual Esala Perahera, a grand festival featuring a vibrant procession of elephants, dancers, and drummers to honour the tooth relic. The Cultural Show is a vibrant spectacle, showcasing traditional dance, music, and rituals, offering a vivid and immersive Sri Lankan cultural experience.

• Local Cuisine

Must-try dishes include “Kandyan rice and curry”, “Milk rice”, and “Jackfruit curry”.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

At The Temple of the Tooth Relic, the temple complex, known as the Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a stunning architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate woodwork and frescoes. Other cultural gems in Kandy if you get time, are Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and the scenic Kandy Lake.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transport and accommodation included.

Day 5:

• Highlights and Activities

Discover Nuwara Eliya today. Often referred to as “Little England” due to its cool climate and British colonial influence, this picturesque town is renowned for its lush tea plantations, producing some of the finest Ceylon tea.

• Itinerary Details

After breakfast drive to Nuwara Eliya – approx. 2 ½ hrs. City tour of Nuwara Eliya. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

• Cultural Experiences

Take a guided tour of a tea factory to learn about how tea is dried, pressed and produced. Some tours include visits to a tea tasting chamber to try different types of tea.

• Local Cuisine

Try “Kukul Mas Curry”, a curry made with chicken and coconut milk and usually served with steamed white rice, accompanied by sides such as dhal or cashew curry.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Explore scenic tea estates, visit the serene Victoria Park, Horton Plains, Bakers Waterfalls, or take part in activities such as golfing and boating on Lake Gregory.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transport and accommodation included.

Day 6:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlight is a Jeep Safari at Yala National Park, the perfect experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Itinerary Details

Have breakfast. Drive to Yala – approx. 5 hrs. Jeep safari at Yala National Park. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Yala/Tissamaharama.

• Cultural Experiences

Chat to your local guide during your Jeep Safari at Yala National Park to learn about the history of the park and their practices.

• Local Cuisine

Try “Kiribath”, a traditional breakfast dish with coconut milk and rice, usually served with “lunu miris” (onion chutney) and “seeni sambol” (sweet onions).

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Yala National Park is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in Sri Lanka, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and more. The jeep safari today will give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with these animals in their natural habitat.

• Transportation and Accommodation

All transport and accommodation included.

Day 7:

• Itinerary Details

After breakfast travel to airport for your departure – approx. 4 ½ hrs.

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £581
– 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.Is transportation included within this tour?

All transportation is included in the tour package. This includes transfers from the airport to Colombo, inter-city transfers, and transportation to various attractions and landmarks mentioned in the itinerary.

2.What cultural experiences can I expect during the tour?

Cultural experiences include visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples, visiting Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites, witnessing a Cultural Show in Kandy, and taking a tea factory tour in Nuwara Eliya.

3.What landmarks and attractions are included in the tour?

Landmarks and attractions included in the tour are Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Dambulla Cave Temples, Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites, Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, and Yala National Park.

4.Is there free time available for personal exploration?

Yes, there is some free time available for personal exploration, particularly during evenings or in destinations like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. You can use this time to explore the local surroundings, markets, or relax at your hotel.

5.What should I wear during the tour?

It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for warm weather during the day and cooler temperatures in places like Nuwara Eliya. Modest attire is advised when visiting religious sites.

6.When is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka for this tour?

The best time of year to visit Sri Lanka for this tour would be during the dry season, which generally occurs from December to March.

7.What is the accommodation of this tour?

The tour package includes accommodation in comfortable hotels. The accommodation is typically centrally located or near the attractions to provide convenience to guests.

8.What makes the Dambulla Cave Temples a must-visit?

The Dambulla Cave Temples house over 150 Buddha statues and intricate murals dating back to the 1st century BC, offering a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious history.

9.What wildlife can I expect to see during the jeep safari at Minneriya National Park?

Minneriya National Park is renowned for its “Gathering of Elephants” during the dry season, offering sightings of not only elephants but also sambar deer, leopards, and various bird species.

10.What’s special about the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy?

The Temple of the Tooth Relic houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of Lord Buddha, making it a revered Buddhist site. Additionally, it hosts the vibrant Esala Perahera festival annually.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive at the airport, meet your guide, and transfer to Colombo for check-in at the hotel.

Day 2: Drive to Sigiriya with optional visits to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Dambulla Cave Temples, followed by hotel check-in.

Day 3: Explore Polonnaruwa Cultural Sites and enjoy a thrilling jeep safari at Minneriya National Park before returning to Sigiriya.

Day 4: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy and experience the Cultural Show in the evening.

Day 5: Travel to Nuwara Eliya for a city tour and tea factory visit, then check in for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Embark on a Jeep Safari at Yala National Park before checking in at a hotel in Yala/Tissamaharama.

Day 7: Depart for the airport after breakfast.