The Cultural Triangle Tour
Discover Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle: A Journey Through Ancient Heritage
Explore the heart of Sri Lanka’s rich history with the Cultural Triangle Tour, a 4-6 day journey through the island’s most iconic ancient sites. Visit the sacred cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, where ancient ruins, majestic stupas, and revered temples tell the story of a once-great civilization. Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, and witness the beauty of the Temple of the Tooth Relic. This tour offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural heritage, making it a must-do for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Experience the rich cultural legacy of the island, with guided tours of ancient stupas, cave temples, and royal palaces. Stay in luxurious heritage hotels and indulge in an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka's glorious past.
Activities
The Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, comprising the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the island's rich history and spiritual heritage. This tour offers an immersive journey into Sri Lanka's ancient past, featuring sacred temples, iconic ruins, and magnificent palaces.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Sigiriya
- Highlights:
- Transfer to Sigiriya and check into a heritage hotel or resort.
- Evening visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century marvel. Climb the fortress to explore its frescoes, water gardens, and the iconic Lion’s Paw entrance.
- Accommodation: Stay at Water Garden Sigiriya or Aliya Resort & Spa.
- Activities: Guided tour of Sigiriya Rock and its surroundings.
Day 2: Anuradhapura – The Sacred City
- Highlights:
- Travel to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visit the ancient ruins, including Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi (the sacred Bo tree), and Isurumuniya Temple.
- Explore the vast network of monasteries, palaces, and reservoirs.
- Accommodation: Return to the hotel in Sigiriya or stay at a heritage hotel in Anuradhapura.
- Activities: Full-day guided tour of Anuradhapura’s historic sites.
Day 3: Polonnaruwa – The Medieval City
- Highlights:
- Morning drive to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's second ancient capital.
- Visit the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara (rock temple), and the Lotus Pond.
- Explore the ancient ruins of temples, stupas, and carved statues, including the iconic reclining Buddha.
- Accommodation: Stay overnight in Polonnaruwa or return to the hotel in Sigiriya.
- Activities: Guided exploration of Polonnaruwa's medieval structures.
Day 4: Dambulla Cave Temple and Minneriya National Park
- Highlights:
- Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a vast complex of cave temples filled with ancient statues and paintings of Buddha.
- Optional afternoon safari at Minneriya National Park to see elephants gathering near the reservoir.
- Accommodation: Stay at a luxury resort in Sigiriya or Dambulla.
- Activities: Cultural tour of Dambulla followed by an optional wildlife safari.
Day 5: Kandy – The Last Royal Capital
- Highlights:
- Travel to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a sacred Buddhist temple.
- Stroll around Kandy Lake and visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
- Accommodation: Stay at The Kandy House or a luxury hotel in Kandy.
- Activities: Guided city tour, including a traditional cultural dance performance.
Day 6: Departure
- Highlights:
- Enjoy a relaxing morning in Kandy before departure.
- Transfer to Colombo or the airport for your onward journey.
Tour Inclusions
- Private transportation with a chauffeur-driven car.
- Entrance fees to historical and cultural sites.
- Guided tours with an English-speaking guide.
- Accommodation in luxury hotels and heritage properties.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.
Estimated Cost:
- Mid-Range: $600 - $1200 per person.
- Luxury: $1500 - $2500 per person.
This Cultural Triangle tour provides an enriching glimpse into Sri Lanka's ancient civilization, offering a mix of cultural heritage, religious significance, and breathtaking scenery.
