History & Cultural Escapade of Sri Lanka - 13 Nights / 14 Days

2N Colombo 1N Thanthirimale 2N Sigiriya 2N Kandy 1N Nuwara Eliya 1N Ella 1N Udawalawa 1N Galle 2N Bentota

Flights
Breakfast
Hotel
Sightseeing
Transfers
Wi-Fi

Overview

This 14-day History & Cultural Escapade of Sri Lanka is designed for travellers from Europe, the UK, Australia, and the USA who seek a deep, meaningful exploration of the island’s remarkable heritage.

Blending ancient capitals, sacred temples, forest monasteries, royal botanical gardens, inspiring landscapes, and colonial charm, the journey unveils the timeless story of Sri Lanka through its most treasured sites.

Your adventure begins with visits to the forest monastery of Arankele and the impressive rock fortress of Yapahuwa before continuing to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital.

Explore historic stupas and cultural marvels before journeying to Thanthirimale, a serene temple with legendary links to the Sri Maha Bodhi.

Move onward to Aukana’s giant standing Buddha statue and the mystical Ritigala forest monastery, a peaceful refuge of ancient monks.

In Sigiriya, ascend the world-famous rock fortress before discovering the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, renowned for its beautifully preserved ruins and rock-carved Buddha statues.

Continue through Dambulla’s rock cave temples and Matale’s historic Aluvihara before arriving in Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Spend a full day exploring the 3 - temple loop, museums and Peradeniya’s lush Botanical Gardens.

A scenic train journey delivers you to Nuwara Eliya’s colonial charm, followed by visits to Sita Amman Temple, Bogoda Temple and the mountain oasis of Ella. Discover Buduruwagala’s rock carvings, enjoy a safari in Udawalawa, explore Mulkirigala rock temple, wander through Galle Fort and relax on Bentota’s golden beaches.

Conclude with a vibrant city tour of Colombo, blending modern energy with colonial heritage.

This carefully curated itinerary ensures a balance of culture, nature, archaeology and leisure, offering an enriching, memorable exploration of Sri Lanka’s unique identity.

Itinerary

This tour package is carefully curated by Cholan Tours to ensure all travellers get to witness the best of Sri Lanka. Travellers get to experience the capital city, Colombo, along with Arankele, Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, and Thanthirimale. In addition to this, one also gets to enjoy the natural beauty, serenity, and ancient heritage of Sri Lanka.

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo - Arankele - Yapahuwa - Anuradhapura−

When you arrive at Colombo airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. Later you will travel to Arankele (approx. 3h drive - 95 km). After arrival, visit the forest monastery of Arankele, a famous archaeological site believed to be Sri Lanka’s premier forest monastery.

The monks who once lived here were called “Pansukulika,” meaning “rag-robes,” referring to their vow to wear only robes made from rags. They lived isolated lives in mountain caves and forests, drawing inspiration from ancient Sylvain hermits who renounced worldly life.

After visiting Arankele, proceed to Yapahuwa (approx. 1h - 35 km). Once the capital of medieval Sri Lanka in the 13th century, Yapahuwa was built as a rock fortress naturally protected by a massive granite outcrop.

It once safeguarded the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, and its ruins, including the Lion Gate, still resemble aspects of Sigiriya.

After the visits, continue to Anuradhapura for overnight stay (approx. 1.5h - 75 km).

Day 2: Excursion to Thanthirimale+

After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Thanthirimale, famous for its ancient Buddhist temple situated in a rocky landscape. The site has historical significance connected to the arrival of the Sri Maha Bodhi from India; a sapling is believed to have sprouted here during the sacred procession.

After the visit, have lunch at a local restaurant and proceed to explore the ruins of ancient Anuradhapura. Founded in the 5th century BC, it was Sri Lanka’s first capital and the birthplace of recorded Buddhist history.

Visit the monumental stupas of Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanarama and Abhayagiri, second in size only to the Great Pyramid of Giza. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Anuradhapura - Aukana - Ritigala - Sigiriya+

After breakfast, proceed to Aukana to visit the giant standing Buddha statue (approx. 1h10min - 50 km). Carved from a single granite rock and standing 12 meters tall, it showcases exceptional 5th-century craftsmanship, though its artisan remains unknown.

Continue to Ritigala forest reserve (approx. 1h - 30 km). This monastery complex features stone paths, ponds, meditation platforms, ancient hospital structures and tranquil forest surroundings. After the visit, proceed to Sigiriya for overnight stay (approx. 1h - 35 km).

Day 4: Excursion to Polonnaruwa+

After an early breakfast, visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fort. This massive rock fortress features ancient monastic complexes, cave temples, water gardens, frescoes, the Mirror Wall and the Lion Stairway.

Later proceed to Polonnaruwa (approx. 1h15min). As the medieval capital, it preserves beautifully intact ruins, including the Gal Vihara with its three colossal Buddha statues carved from a single rock. Return to Sigiriya for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Sigiriya - Matale - Dambulla - Kandy+

After breakfast, travel toward Kandy, stopping first at Dambulla Rock Cave Temple (approx. 25 min - 17 km). This 1st- century BC complex houses Sri Lanka’s finest collection of Buddha images and murals.

Continue to Matale to visit Alu Vihara, where the Pali Canon (Tripitaka) was first transcribed in the 1st century BC.

Proceed to Kandy (approx. 50 min - 30 km). In the evening, enjoy a city tour and visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic during a puja ceremony. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 6: Visits Around Kandy+

After breakfast, visit the 3-temple loop, Gadaladeniya, Embekke and Lankathilaka, dating back to the 14th century. Gadaladeniya features unique architecture and stone sculptures, Embekke is renowned for its intricate wooden carvings, and Lankatilaka combines Buddhist and Hindu influences.

Next, visit Suriyakantha Art & Cultural Centre, showcasing heritage collections curated by a French scholar passionate about Sri Lankan culture.

In the afternoon, explore Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, home to vast subtropical flora. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 7: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya by Train+

After breakfast, board the scenic train to Nanuoya (approx. 3h - 90 km). Enjoy sweeping views of valleys, meadows, and tea plantations.

Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 20 min, 10 km). Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Nuwara Elizya.

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya - Sita Amman Temple - Bogoda Temple - Ella+

After breakfast, enjoy a drive around Nuwara Eliya, with its English-village ambiance, colonial buildings, golf course and racecourse.

Visit Sita Amman Temple, then proceed to Bogoda Temple, linked to a remarkable 400-year-old wooden bridge built entirely from a single tree. After the visits, travel to Ella for an overnight stay (approx. 3h).

Day 9: Ella - Buduruwagala - Udawalawa+

After breakfast, proceed to Buduruwagala, featuring seven rock-carved figures, including a 51-foot Buddha statue in Abhaya Mudra. These Mahayana-style carvings are believed to date between the 8th-10th centuries.

Continue to Udawalawa for an afternoon safari at Udawalawa National Park. Overnight in Udawalawa.

Day 10: Udawalawa - Mulkirigala - Galle+

After breakfast, visit Mulkirigala Rock Temple, carved into a massive boulder and filled with ancient murals and statues.

Proceed to Galle, and after some rest, enjoy a walking tour of the Galle Dutch Fort. Overnight in Galle.

Day 11: Galle - Bawa Gardens - Bentota+

After breakfast, visit the famous Bawa Gardens created by Bevis Bawa. The 10-hectare estate features colonial architecture, artistic collections, and lush landscaping.

After the visit, continue to Bentota for an overnight stay.

Day 12: Bentota+

Enjoy a full day of leisure on the beaches of Bentota. Overnight in Bentota.

Day 13: Bentota - Colombo+

After breakfast, proceed to Colombo (approx. 1h45min - 90 km).

Enjoy a city tour covering its mix of colonial architecture, modern high-rises, bazaars and cultural diversity.

After sightseeing, enjoy shopping in Colombo’s busy markets. Overnight in Colombo.

Day 14: Departure+

As per your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Colombo Airport for your flight back home.

FAQs on History & Cultural Escapade of Sri Lanka Tour Package

What is the best time of year to take this cultural tour of Sri Lanka?

The ideal time for this itinerary is between December and April, when the cultural triangle, tea country, and southern coast enjoy pleasant weather. These months offer comfortable temperatures, clearer skie,s and smoother travel conditions, making your historical explorations and outdoor visits more enjoyable and relaxed.

Is this itinerary suitable for older travellers or slow-paced explorers?

Yes. Although it includes several heritage sites, monastery walks and rock temples, the pace is balanced and manageable. Most visits allow flexibility, and travellers can skip optional climbs such as Sigiriya if needed. Comfortable transport, thoughtful scheduling and ample rest time make it ideal for mature travellers.

What type of clothing should I pack for this culturally focused trip?

Pack light cotton clothing for warm regions, a light jacket for Nuwara Eliya’s cooler climate and modest attire for temple visits, covering shoulders and knees is essential. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hats and a small daypack will help you enjoy historical sites comfortably.

Are train tickets in Sri Lanka guaranteed and what class is recommended?

Train tickets, especially on the scenic Kandy-Nuwara Eliya route, often sell out early. We arrange them in advance, usually in 1st or 2nd-class reserved compartments, offering comfort and excellent views. Early booking ensures smooth travel and a memorable rail experience.

How physically demanding are the excursions included in this itinerary?

The itinerary includes light to moderate walking through archaeological sites, uneven stone paths and occasional stair climbs. Sigiriya and certain temples require more effort, but these climbs are optional. With proper footwear and pacing, most travellers find the physical level quite manageable.