Undiscovered Sri Lanka
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Sinhalese history can be traced back over three and a half millennia, with the arrival of Buddhism around 250 BC having a major influence on its culture and architecture. An influence that can still be seen today amongst its stunning World Heritage Sites. The later arrival of the Tamils and the Europeans enhanced this cultural mix, to create a unique island that was once described as the finest in all the world.
Sinhalese history can be traced back over three and a half millennia, with the arrival of Buddhism around 250 BC having a major influence on its culture and architecture. An influence that can still be seen today amongst its stunning World Heritage Sites. The later arrival of the Tamils and the Europeans enhanced this cultural mix, to create a unique island that was once described as the finest in all the world.
This fascinating journey through the cultural heartland of Sri Lanka takes you to the Jaffna Peninsula in the far north, and on to the east where you can watch pearl fishermen and discover the pristine coral reefs that lie off its less-visited coastline.
From the old capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya and the Buddhist treasures of Kandy and Dambulla, you can then enjoy some downtime along Sri Lanka’s beautiful south east coast where you’ll get an opportunity to explore the splendour of Galle, visit its magnificent coastal fortress and perhaps even enjoy some early morning whale watching, before the drive along the western coast to Colombo and journey’s end
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE COLOMBO - ANURADHAPURA
Day 1 ARRIVE COLOMBO - ANURADHAPURA
Your journey begins in Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest city and its de facto capital. Flying into the city today we then head north, driving up towards Anuradhapura, the site of the country's first capital and one of the greatest monastic centres of the ancient world. En route visit the fascinating Yapahuwa Rock Fortress. On arrival in Anuradhapura the evening is free to relax.
Day 2 ANURADHAPURA
Day 2 ANURADHAPURA
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura lay at the heart of Theravada Buddhism for centuries. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth, it is home to some of the most revered religious sites in Asia including the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, believed to have been grown from a cutting from the original Bodhi tree under which the Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment. You'll also have a chance today to visit the Mirisaveti Stupa, Abhayagiri Dagaba and the Isurumiya Temple, the first to be built on the island.
Day 3 ANURADHAPURA - MANNAR
Day 3 ANURADHAPURA - MANNAR
After breakfast this morning you will leave for the town of Mannar, a busy sea port that was once renowned as a centre for pearl fishing. Home to the historic Thiruketheeswaram Hindu temple, one of the main Eswara temples in the country, Mannar sits on an island overlooking the Gulf of Mannar and our journey takes us via the famous pilgrimage Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu, the holiest Catholic shrine in Sri Lanka. You'll also take in the Dutch fort and the Thiruketheeswaram Temple, before ending at 'Doric Bungalow' to watch the pearl fishermen.
Day 4 MANNAR - JAFFNA
Day 4 MANNAR - JAFFNA
Head for the historic city of Jaffna today, capital of Sri Lanka's northern provinces. Hemmed in to the south and the west by Jaffna Lagoon, the city served as the power-base of the Jaffna Kingdom of the 13th-17th centuries and in later years came under the influence of the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. The journey there today takes us via the newly built Sanguppidy Bridge, which connects the Jaffna Peninsula with the mainland. You’ll visit the Dutch Fort at Pooneryn, before taking a tour of Jaffna’s Public Library and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, as well as the fabulous Chunnkam market where you can browse beautiful handicrafts and fresh produce. Finally reward yourself with a visit to Ammachi Unavagam where you can sample some of the country’s most fabulous food.
Day 5 JAFFNA
Day 5 JAFFNA
A boat trip to nearby Nainathivu Island provides an opportunity to visit the Naga Poosari Amman Hindu Temple and the ancient Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple, said to occupy a spot blessed by the Lord Buddha during his second visit to Sri Lanka. Other sightseeing today includes the Buddhist ruins at Kadurugoda, the therapeutic hot springs at Keeramalai and the temple at Dambakolapatuna, where the sacred Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura first reached Sri Lanka's shores. En route visit Karainagar village where you can see the women weaving Palmyrah leafs into baskets and handicrafts – a traditional craft that’s sadly disappearing.
Day 6 JAFFNA - TRINCOMALEE
Day 6 JAFFNA - TRINCOMALEE
Lying along the eastern coast, some 113 miles south of Jaffna, is the port city of Trincomalee. A traditional stronghold of Tamil culture, the city is one of the oldest in Asia and was a major maritime trading centre during the island's long history of trade with South East Asia. A tour this afternoon takes in Fort Frederick and the city's famous Koneswaram Temple (The Temple of the Thousand Pillars). You'll also visit the Vilgam Vehera, one of the oldest shrines in the Eastern Province, where one of the first saplings of the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi was planted.
Day 7 TRINCOMALEE
Day 7 TRINCOMALEE
A boat cruise out to the Pigeon Island National Park today presents a chance to visit one of Sri Lanka's two maritime parks. Home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the country, the park provides a rich haven for more than 100 different types of coral, some 300 species of reef fish, black tip reef sharks, hawksbill and green turtles and breeding colonies of rock pigeons.
Day 8 TRINCOMALEE - POLONNARUWA - SIGIRIYA
Day 8 TRINCOMALEE - POLONNARUWA - SIGIRIYA
Turning away from the coast, we head next for the ancient city of Sigiriya, located in the central Matale District. En route visit the old medieval capital of Polonnaruwa today, a city that reached the height of its glory during the 12th century. Another of Sri Lanka's wonderful World Heritage Sites, the city is filled with a rich collection of ancient buildings and monuments. You'll visit the magnificent ruins of its Royal Palace, with its Audience Hall, Bathing Pool and Quadrangle. You'll also take in the curious Circular Relic House and the colossal carved figures of the Galvihara, hewn out of solid granite. Continue on to Sigiriya where you can relax for the rest of the day.
Day 9 SIGIRIYA
Day 9 SIGIRIYA
The unique Rock Fortress, or 'castle in the sky' as it is sometimes known at Sigiriya, is a massive monolith of red stone that rises 600ft above ground. Its common name - Lion Rock - is derived from the way the entrance to the path that ascends the mountain is reached between the paws of a lion. The ruins of this 5th century fortress completely dominate the landscape and are one of Sri Lanka's major attractions. Spend some time with your guide exploring this splendid site, as you climb to the top where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, as well as the remains of what is left of the palace of King Kasyapa. Halfway up, accessible by a spiral staircase and tucked beneath a sheltering overhang of rock, are the famous frescoes - the Sigiriya Damsels. Reward yourself with lunch at Heritance Kandalama, Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic hotel, before enjoying an afternoon at leisure.
Day 10 SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - KANDY
Day 10 SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - KANDY
The journey to Kandy takes us by way of the UNESCO caves at Dambulla, where you'll find a remarkable collection of temples and statues that date back to the 1st century BC. Filled with images of the Buddha and sculptures of the Hindu gods, the caves have become an important pilgrimage site for countless thousands of worshippers, with the largest of the caves containing some 48 statues of the Buddha. Continuing on to the Matale Spice Gardens, you'll then get a chance to join a tour to learn more about the use of spices in day to day life, before completing the journey to Kandy.
Day 11 KANDY
Day 11 KANDY
The last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, Kandy is one of the country's cultural jewels. Home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, the city still retains a sense of its old-world charm and a guided tour of some of its highlights includes the beautiful Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, one of the finest of its kind in Asia. Continue on a culinary walk, exploring local markets and visiting Hela Bojun Hala, a spacious open-air food court set up with the aim of not only providing delicious Sri Lankan food at subsidised prices, but also providing employment opportunities for local women.
Day 12 KANDY - GALLE
Day 12 KANDY - GALLE
Another of Sri Lanka's impressive World Heritage Sites, Galle, on Sri Lanka's beautiful southwestern coast, is home to the largest European fortress left in Asia. Colonised by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it is still infused today with a graceful charm that perfectly encapsulates its European history and a wander through its meandering streets reveals the ageing colonial era buildings. Explore on foot with your guide.
Day 13 GALLE
Day 13 GALLE
There is an option this morning to join an early whale and dolphin watching trip at Mirissa. The journey there provides an opportunity to stop off and watch some fishermen practicing the traditional art of stilt fishing, a custom unique to Sri Lanka and kept alive today by about 500 families that still fish these southern coastal waters. Alternative options are to visit a Cinnamon tea plantation or enjoy some mask making at the nearby town of Ambalangoda.
Day 14 GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
Day 14 GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
Drive back along the coast today towards Colombo. For those interested in Geoffrey Bawa you can stop along the way to explore his iconic country home and gardens - Lunuganga Estate. Continue on to Colombo airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Sigiriya Village, Sigiriya
Offering splendid views of the Sigiriya rock fortress, Sigiriya Village is ideally located in the heartland of the Cultural Triangle, which is rich in historical sites, archaeological treasures, primary works of art and scenic beauty. This exclusive jungle retreat boasts elegantly designed earth-toned cottages, well decorated with rustic village life themes. The management prides itself in its green initiatives and environmentally friendly projects are continually being introduced. The open-air restaurant serves both international and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a colourful and warm atmosphere. The swimming pool is located in a private courtyard with breath-taking views of the rock and wilderness. There is also an Ayurvedic health centre specially designed to offer guests a taste of indigenous herbal health care.
Cinnamon Trinco Blu, Trincomalee
Located on the water’s edge, Trinco Blu offers beautiful views across the ocean in luxurious comfort. The rooms, suites and chalets are inspired by Sri Lanka’s idyllic beaches, styled using a whitewashed blue colour scheme and beautiful mosaics. The accommodations overlook the sea or gardens and feature a private balcony or terrace. When staying at Trinco Blu, you will have plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the seaside setting; take a stroll along the beach, a dip in the infinity pool or simply enjoy a meal from one of the two restaurants or a cocktail at the bar. The spa offers massage treatments, best enjoyed between activities such as scuba diving, whale watching and surfing.
41 Lighthouse Street, Galle
This private villa located in the heart of Galle Fort has only three guestrooms, so guests can expect ultimate relaxation and privacy. The tastefully decorated rooms are all air-conditioned with private en suite bathrooms, king-sized beds and plush bedding. Relax by the pool in the quaint outdoor terrace, use the free Wi-Fi in the library, or enjoy a meal cooked freshly to order by your own personal chef. Located at just a short walk from the shops and restaurants, guests can look forward to returning back to the comforts of 41 Lighthouse Street after a day of sightseeing.
Palmyrah House, Mannar
Palmyrah House is a simple yet comfortable guest house based on Mannar Island. The five rooms all have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms and access to either the upstairs or downstairs shared verandas – a great place to relax and take in the view of the surrounding garden or jungle. In order to keep in line with the natural feel, the guest house tries to use local resources as much as possible and the verandas have been built using wood from the local Palmyrah tree. What’s more, there are no televisions in the rooms, giving you more time to swim in the outdoor swimming pool, work out in the gym, read a book in the library or try a Sri Lankan meal in the restaurant.
Forest Rock Garden, Anuradhapura
Forest Rock Garden is an eco-friendly hotel set within 50 acres of tree-filled gardens, well placed for visiting Anuradhapura and Wilpattu National Park. The rooms and buildings are connected by a series of walkways that weave through the grounds, standing six metres high in order to protect the natural surroundings, and the architecture gives guests a real taste of the tradition and history behind the Anuradhapura region. The rooms keep a traditional feel, despite the modern-day comforts such as a four-poster bed, air-conditioning and private plunge pool (suites only). Guests can unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the setting, most likely joined by native wildlife going about its daily activities, with a dip in the outdoor pool or during a meal in the Forest Rock Garden vegetarian restaurant.
Northgate By Jetwing Jaffna, Jaffna
The North Gate by Jetwing is located in Jaffna and features 44 rooms – the majority of which are Deluxe Rooms, followed by four Family Rooms and four Suites. Every room is fitted with a private balcony that looks over the city of Jaffna and beyond, while the modern interiors have been inspired by the rustic earthen tones that complement the waters of the peninsula. This elegance extends to every corner of our rooms, including the bathrooms – which feature a luxury rain shower and a range of complimentary amenities.The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and a telephone with IDD facilities, a TV with satellite channels to keep you entertained, and even a mini bar, bottled water, and tea/coffee making facilities.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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