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8 DAYS SRI LANKA CULTURAL TRIANGLE TOUR ITINERARY

Discover the world for less.

Discover the world for less.

Itinerary HIGHLIGHTS A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya is an enormous rock boulder rising up 200 metres out of the surrounding jungle.

An interesting blend of archaeological monuments, Polonnaruwa was the second kingdom of Sri Lanka and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dating back to the first Century BC, Dambulla is a vast cave complex, converted into a rock temple which is still regarded today as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries.

The city of Kandy was the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka and has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city, is a blend of both historic value and modern vibes.

Dating back over 600 years,

‘At a glance’ ITINERARY Date day description accommodation meals *

DAY 01 – Airport – Sigiriya

Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3*, Standard Room, D

DAY 02 – Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa -

Siigiriya, Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 03 – Sigiriya

Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 04 – Sigiriya – DambullaMatale - Kandy,

Suisse hotel or Queens Hotel 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 05 – Kandy

Suisse hotel or Queens Hotel 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 06 – Kandy

Suisse hotel or Queens Hotel 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 07 – Kandy – Colombo or Wattala

Pegasus Reef 3*, Standard Room (B + D)

DAY 08 – Colombo or Wattala Airport, (B*) B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Itinerary DAY BY DAY DAY 01 1 DAY – Airport – Sigiriya

Upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be met by our Akorn Airport Representative and will be introduced to your English-speaking tour manager or driver guide. Transfer from Airport to your hotel in Sigiriya. (approx. duration - 4 hours - Distance 156 km). Check into your hotel and spend rest of the day at leisure enjoying all-inclusive facilities of the hotel.

Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3* - Standard room

DAY DAY 022 – Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, leave to Polonnaruwa (approx. duration 1.5 hours Distance 67km) and visit ancient sites.

An interesting blend of archaeological monuments, Polonnaruwa was the second kingdom of Sri Lanka and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic man-made reservoir was appropriately named “Parakrama Samudra”, or “the sea of Parakrama”, due to its enormous size.

Look out for the famous Gal Viharaya or “Rock Temple” where you will see four colossal statues of the Buddha cut into the stone, reflecting peace, serenity and strength. Polonnaruwa also boasts ruins of ancient palaces, intricately carved moon stones and royal baths. If you are feeling a bit more energetic, this whole site can also be explored on bike and your guide will be more than happy to arrange this for you.

Return to your overnight hotel and spend rest of the day at leisure enjoying all-inclusive facilities of the hotel.

Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3* - Standard room

DAY DAY 033 – Sigiriya

After breakfast visit to vegetable cultivations and local village.

After Lunch in the evening proceed to climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. approx. duration - 10 minutes - distance 2km) A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya is an enormous rock boulder rising up 200 meters above the surrounding jungle.

Incredibly, the rock fortress was built by King Kassyapa I in the fifth Century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years, something that seems more astonishing with every step you climb.

Pause occasionally during your ascent to admire the mirror wall, the sigiri graffiti, the famous Sigiriya frescoes (paintings) and the great lion paws.

Upon reaching the summit you’ll immediately see that it was worth the effort. Wander through the ruins and admire the courage and work it must have taken to build this palace all those years ago. Aside from the ruins, with the unparalleled 360 degree view of the surrounding jungle and hills, it will not be just be the climb that takes your breath away.

NOTE: Climbing up to the summit requires good fitness level and by no means mandatory.

Return to hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Kassapa Lions Rock or Fresco Water Villa 3* - Standard room

DAY DAY 044 – Sigiriya – Dambaulla – Matale – Kandy

After Breakfast this morning, leave to Kandy (approx. duration - 3 hours Distance 90km). En-route visit Dambulla golden rock temple. Dating back to the first Century BC, Dambulla is a vast cave complex, converted into a rock temple which is still regarded today as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries.

Covering the rock ceiling is the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple, and surrounding you is the highest number of Buddha statues found in one single place. As you wander through the temple, notice the serenity and the exceedingly well-preserved nature of the place. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route stop at a local spice garden in Matale where you will receive an introduction to the famous local spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and Ayurveda herbs. Afternoon check in at your overnight hotel in Kandy.

Spend rest of the day at leisure enjoying all-inclusive facilities of the hotel or join on optional excursions Suisse Hotel or Queens Hotel 3* Standard Room

Itinerary DAY BY DAY DAY 055 DAY – Kandy

After breakfast at the hotel explore the beautiful city of Kandy.

KANDY HERITAGE CITY - the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The city of Kandy was the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka and has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will notice a more comfortable temperature here, compared with the tropical climate prevailing throughout the rest of the island. The Sacred Temple of the Tooth is certainly the most revered and iconic place to visit in this cultural capital but other highlights include the historic Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the scenic Victoria Golf Club.

Whilst you are in Kandy, also look out for the silverware, brassware and gemstudded jewellery, carefully carved and designed by the Kandyan craftsman who are known to be the most skilled in the country. Kandy can be a bustling place in the day but there is nothing quite like a late evening stroll around the serene lake with a view to the Sacred Temple and the distant sound of drums in the background.

Later in the evening proceed to visit the SACRED TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH. Built during the 16th Century AD, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is one the most important temples for Buddhists as it houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha.

The Relic of the Tooth is kept in a twostory inner sanctum. The ‘Thevava’ or auspicious offering to the Sacred Tooth Relic takes place three times a day at preset times and a visit during this time is

quite an experience. The resident monks demonstrate this age-old tradition as you become surrounded by the sound of drums and the smells of lotus and jasmine flowers, as well as incense. In July and August the whole city comes to life as the Kandy Esala Perehara pageant takes place in honour of the Relic.

Return to the hotel. Suisse Hotel or Queens Hotel 3* - Standard Room Day 6 6 DAY

– Kandy – Giragama – Peradeniya –

Kandy Breakfast at hotel proceed to a TEA PLANTATION to learn the process of tea making. - Tea was introduced to the country in 1867 by the British planter James Taylor. Today, the industry plays a significant role in the country’s economy and in the world market. The island nation is the world’s fourth largest producer of tea and the second largest tea exporter.

The weather conditions in the central highlands; cool temperatures, rainfall and humidity are ideal for the production of high quality tea. Sri Lanka is reputed for its Pure Ceylon Tea. The production and cultivation of tea which is scientifically managed and skillfully processed, produces the finest, fragrant blends consistent in aroma, colour and flavor.

Witness the process of manufacturing the world’s finest tea with a visit to a tea plantation and factory.

LEAVE TO PERADENIYA – AND VISIT ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS - approx. duration- 1.5 Hours – distance 18km

Originally created in the 14th Century as a pleasure garden for the Queens, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya are located in the city of Kandy. Spread over 147 acres and bordered by the charming Mahaweli River - the longest in Sri Lanka - it is the largest botanical garden on the island. The garden is home to over 4,000 species of plants, ferns, shrubs, palm trees, spices and medicinal plants, all complemented by an array of butterflies and bird species. Take time to admire the incredible collection of over 300 varieties of orchids; certainly one of the garden’s highlights. The giant bamboo and double palm trees, both of which are imports to the island and many are over one hundred years old, create a natural canopy. A leisurely stroll through the immaculate lawns and along the quiet paths, perhaps stopping to enjoy a sumptuous picnic, is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Return to your overnight hotel. Suisse Hotel or Queens Hotel 3* - Standard Room Day 7 7 DAY

– Kandy – Colombo or Wattala

Breakfast at hotel and then proceed to Colombo for your final night.

(Approximate Travelling time – 3 Hrs) Check-in to your hotel and proceed for a Colombo City Tour in the afternoon.

THE CAPITAL OF COLOMBO - The city of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city, is a blend of both historic value and modern vibes.

Dating back over 600 years, Colombo

Itinerary DAY BY DAY was a trading hub for sea merchants and colonial rulers. One of the first things you will notice on your tour is how diverse the city has become. Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques and churches reflect the various beliefs practiced all over the island and the beautiful facades of the old, colonial buildings contrast with the modern but elegant shopping arcades that have been developed inside.

Your panoramic tour takes you past the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the Pettah bazzar area, the Wolfendhal Dutch Church, the Old Parliament complex, The Bandaranaike International Memorial Hall, Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park, the Independence Square and the National Museum. Before heading back to your hotel, perhaps take a stroll along the Galle Face green and enjoy afternoon tea or a sundowner (payable locally) at the iconic Galle Face Hotel, one of the oldest in South Asia, looking out across the glistening Indian Ocean.

Return to your hotel and spend rest of the evening at leisure enjoying all-inclusive facilities of the hotel.

Pegasus Reef 3* - Standard room Day 8 8 DAY

– Wattala or Colombo – Airport

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport in time to connect with the international flight for departure. (approx. duration - 1.5 hours – distance 44km)

Notes

Discover the world for less.