Sri Lanka Tours: Unearth the North: A 9-Day Cultural and Coastal Tour

Highlights of the Trip

If you’re seeking Sri Lanka tour packages where history, culture and natural beauty converge to create an experience like no other, this is it.

Your adventure through the enchanting Northern Sri Lanka begins in the coastal town of Negombo, setting the stage for the rest of your journey. From there, delve into the history of Anuradhapura. Then continue your journey, travelling north to the vibrant city of Jaffna, where you’ll have the freedom to choose from a plethora of captivating sites to explore. Your adventure then takes you to Trincomalee, a coastal haven where relaxation meets discovery. Your journey culminates in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital.

This specially curated tour is one of our best loved Sri Lanka holiday packages and is tailor-made for those with a thirst for discovery, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a deeper connection with Sri Lanka’s fascinating heritage. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple in search of an intimate cultural experience, or a small group of friends, Sri Lanka trips like this tour offer a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.

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Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Anuradhapura

• Sacred Bo Tree: A revered fig tree believed to be a sapling from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.
• Brazen Place: A historic site featuring the remains of a massive ancient structure with over a thousand bronze pillars, reflecting the architectural grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan civilisations.
• Samadhi Buddha: A serene, revered statue representing the state of deep meditation, providing a tranquil spiritual experience amidst the ancient ruins of the sacred city.
• Mihintale: A sacred mountain where Buddhism was introduced to the island, featuring ancient monastic ruins, a grand stupa, and panoramic views, making it a significant pilgrimage and historical site.

Jaffna

• Jaffna Fort: A historical citadel showcasing Dutch and Portuguese architectural influences, providing a glimpse into the region’s colonial past, along with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Jaffna Clock Tower: An iconic landmark with British colonial architecture, symbolising the city’s historical and cultural significance while serving as a central point in the bustling heart of Jaffna.
• Jaffna Library: A cultural and intellectual hub, once ravaged by conflict and now rebuilt, showcasing its rich collection of literature, and serving as a symbol of resilience and knowledge.
• Jaffna Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil: A vibrant Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, featuring colourful architecture, intricate carvings, and serving as a significant religious and cultural centre in the northern part of the country.
• Jaffna Archaeological Museum: Housing a diverse collection of artifacts that narrate the cultural heritage and archaeological significance of Jaffna and its surroundings.

Trincomalee

Guided tour, including:

• Koneswaran Temple: A sacred Hindu temple perched atop Swami Rock, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, known for its ancient history, vibrant rituals, and architectural splendour.
• Bhadrakali Amman Temple: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, known for its colourful festivities, spiritual significance, and its role as a cultural landmark in the vibrant Trincomalee community.

Colombo

Optional Evening City 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

Bungee-jumping:

Bike Tours: Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura on a bike tour, allowing you to absorb the serene surroundings, visit remote ruins, and experience the local way of life.

Mihintale Pilgrimage: You might like to embark on a pilgrimage to Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, climbing the steps to the summit for panoramic views and a spiritual experience.

Attend Puja Ceremonies: Witness traditional Buddhist rituals and Puja ceremonies at temples like Ruwanwelisays, gaining insight into the religious practices of the local community.

Participate in Vesak Festival: If you are visiting during Vesak, experience the grand celebrations, illuminations, and cultural festivities that mark Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing.

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.

Koneswaram Temple Rituals: Witness traditional Hindu rituals and ceremonies at the historic Koneswaram Temple, perched atop Swami Rock, offering a spiritual and cultural experience.

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

Pigeon Island Snorkelling: Explore Pigeon Island Marine National Park for snorkelling, offering a chance to witness diverse marine life and pristine coral reefs.

Dutch Bay Tour: Take a boat tour around Dutch Bay, exploring its historical sites and gaining insights into Trincomalee’s colonial past.

Beach Yoga and Meditation: Embrace the tranquil beaches for yoga and meditation sessions, blending cultural relaxation practices with the serene coastal ambience.

Dolphin and Whale Watching: Take a boat excursion from Trincomalee to witness dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, particularly during the appropriate seasons.

Colombo Harbour Cruise: Enjoy a cruise in Colombo Harbour, providing scenic views of the city skyline, port activities, and possibly a sunset cruise.

Beira Lake Boat Ride: Take a leisurely boat ride on Beira Lake, located in the heart of Colombo, offering a tranquil escape amidst the urban landscape.

Accommodation of this Tour

Negombo: Hotel in Negombo

Anuradhapura: Hotel in Anuradhapura

Jaffna: Hotel in Jaffna

Trincomalee: Beach Resort in Trincomalee

Colombo: Hotel in Colombo