Day 1 – Arrival and booking in to a hotel in Negambo
Most-Highlighted Places to Cover
As per your Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, today you will reach Bandaranaike International Airport.
Your Lanka Budget Tours representative will meet and greet you at the airport. You will then board your car and go to your first location, the Negombo Beach Hotel. You are expected to stay the night at this hotel.
Day 2 – Negombo to Anuradhapura and Mihintale
On day two of your Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, we’ll go to Anuradhapura. First, we’ll go to Mihintale, a place renowned for its multi-religious population, monarchy, history of battle, and military might. Anuradhapura is 12 kilometers away from Mihintale. Mihintale, a Buddhist monk who thrived in the eleventh century, was known as Mahinda’s Hill in the Sinhalese language. The oldest wildlife sanctuary in the world is located in this city, which has been designated as such for more than 2,200 years. Sri Lankans hold this monument in high regard as the location of a meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa that officially established Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Next, we’ll travel to the Atamasthana, also referred to as the “Eight Sacred Places,” which the Buddha visited throughout his three trips around Sri Lanka. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, and Lankarama are a few of the holy sites. They are located in Anuradhapura, which served as the Anuradhapura Kingdom’s previous capital.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya: Asoka the Great of India sent his daughter Theri Sangha Mitta to the island with a branch of the Sacred Bodhi, which was cut from the main stem of the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya, beneath which Buddha obtained enlightenment after Mahinda Thero, brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka in 250 BC. In 249 BC, King Tissa took the sapling and placed it where it is now.
Ruwanwelisaya: Ruwanwelisaya was constructed by the famous king Dutugamunu, who ruled from Anuradhapura from 137 BC to 119 BC. The Ruwanweli Seya temple is the most revered Buddhist shrine in Anuradhapura, second only to Sri Maha Bodhi. Despite the fact that Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not the largest nor the oldest of the stupas built in Anuradhapura, Buddhists hold it in greater respect than any other important stupa. The largest collection of Gautama Buddha items ever maintained in a Dagaba is located on the island.
Thuparamaya– Since Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, this is the first stupa to have been constructed there. During the reign of King Devanampiyatissa (250 BC–210 BC), this complex was built, and it had both a stupa and an aramic structure (monastery). More than 3 1/2 acres still contain the complex’s ruins. Thero, who introduced Buddhism to the island, gave the order to erect the stupa to house Lord Buddha’s right collarbone.
Lovamahapaya- Lovamahapaya is a location located halfway between Ruwanweli Seya and Sri Maha Bodhiya. Due to its bronze-tiled roof, it is also known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasadaya. King Dutugamunu first erected it more than 2000 years ago, but over the decades, it underwent multiple renovations, each time with a less lavish design. Archeological evidence indicates that this magnificent palace, which had nine storeys and could accommodate about 1000 monks and attendants, only has the remains of 1600 of its majestic columns.
Abhayagiri Dagaba – It was constructed throughout King Wattagamini Abhaya’s reign (commonly known as King Valagamba). It is one of the world’s largest archaeological sites as well as a holy Buddhist pilgrimage destination. It was formerly a significant monastic center and the seat of the monarchy, with magnificent monasteries rising to several levels and roofs made of burnt clay tiles painted with exquisite glazes or gilded metal.
The Jetavanaramaya, a stupa located among the remnants of the Jetavana Monastery, is located in the historic Sri Lankan city of Anuradhapura, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.When Mahavihara collapsed, King Mahasena (273–301 AD) began building the stupa, and his son Meghavanna finished it. According to legend, the artifact kept here is a piece of a belt or sash that the Buddha fastened.
Mirisaveti Stupa– After defeating King Elara, King Dutugamunu constructed the Mirisaveti Stupa. He left the Buddha artifacts within the sceptre after placing them there and traveled to Tisawewa to take a bath. After taking a bath, he went back to the location of the sceptre, but it is claimed that it remained still. A stupa stood where the sceptre had formerly stood. According to reports, he had a hot dinner but did not share it with the sangha.In order to exact revenge, he built the Mirisavetiya Dagaba.
Lankarama– On the ancient location of Galhebakada, King Valagamba built the stupa known as Lankarama in the former Sri Lankan kingdom of Anuradhapura. The stupa’s original appearance before it was renovated is unknown. The fragments reveal rows of stone pillars, indicating that a building was built to encircle and cover the stupa (vatadage).
For a long time, the hallowed city of Anuradhapura significantly influenced the country’s architectural advancement. In 1982, the city was included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. Afterward, you will be driven to the hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 3 – Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa, Minneriya and back to Sigiriya
On the third day of your tour, you will be guided to the historic city of Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa is the second-oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. After Anuradhapura was destroyed in 993, Sri Lanka’s second capital was Polonnaruwa. Along with the Chola-constructed Brahmanic structures, it also has the breathtaking remains of Parakramabahu’s magnificent garden city, which was erected in the 12th century. Temples, shrines, castles, and ruins are among the city’s many archaeological gems. Find out about King Parakramabahu I’s royal residence (1153–1186). The 50-room building, which was formerly very large, still has solid walls. Intricately carved stone elephants flank the walls of the king’s audience hall, while lion sculptures stand watch. In the king’s swimming pool, there are giant freshwater-spitting crocodile mouth statues. The Shiva Devale No. 2 is made of stone and is nestled away in a little forested location. It is the second-oldest Hindu temple in Polonnaruwa.
We are heading for the Minneriya National Park after exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Many tourists come to this wildlife reserve to observe Sri Lankan elephants. During the dry season, 150–300 wild elephants may gather close to Minneriya Tank. The 888.4-hectare Minneriya National Park is home to several wild animals, including the Sri Lankan Leopard, Sloth Bear, Sri Lankan Sambar Deer, Buffalo, and local monkeys. After that, you’ll be taken to Sigiriya for the night.
Day 4 – Sigiriya to Kandy through Matale
On day four of your Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, you will get the chance to engage in some climbing activities before heading to Kandy, which is famous for its rock fortress, Sigiriya. Sigiriya, sometimes known as the “lion rock,” served as the seat of government and the citadel of King Kashyapa. The rock is 180 meters high. The legend surrounding Sigiriya claims that King Kashyapa constructed a gateway in the shape of a massive lion halfway up a cliff. It was known as the “lion rock” because of its form (Sigiriya). The castle was abandoned as a result of the king’s passing. It was still being used as a Buddhist monastery in the fourteenth century. The fortress’s remains are still visible today and have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
We shall next go in the direction of Kandy. Our first visit will be to the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Dambulla Golden Temple, which is our ultimate destination. The structure, which has five chambers, is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple. A total of 2100 m2 of the walls are covered in murals. There are 157 sculptures in all in the shrine. The existence of the temple is a natural wonder due to the enormous 150 m-tall rock that serves as its ceiling. After substantial repair work, the massive, 15-meter-tall golden statue and pagoda were constructed. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our next trip will be to the Spice Garden, a wonderful place brimming with scents and vegetation. Additionally, you will have the chance to discover the numerous applications of spices in both cuisine and medicine. Our next trip is to the Matale Muthumariamman Temple. The name Muthumariamman is a combination of the words Muthu, which means pearl, Mari, which means rain, and Amman, which means mother. It is a temple dedicated to Mariamman, the Hindu god of fertility and rain. A trip to the temple is enjoyable. Numerous people come to the temple for weddings and religious ceremonies. The chariot festival, which is a happy celebration, is the biggest religious event held in the temple throughout the month of March. We shall then proceed to Kandy for the night.
Day 5 – Kandy City Tour
On your fifth day of travel, you are free to explore the lovely city of Kandy; we’ll also transport you to a few nearby locations. Our car will pick you up at the hotel after breakfast. One of the places we will visit is the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist attractions. It is a very significant and revered location for all Buddhists worldwide. It is the temple where the Buddha’s left canine tooth is revered. UNESCO recognized it as a global cultural treasure in 1988. Your next visit will be to the Bahirawakanda Temple, a popular tourist attraction on the Bahirawakanda hill that is renowned for its magnificent Buddha sculpture. Later on, we’ll travel to the Kandy viewpoint, which offers a comprehensive overview of the city. The neighboring market is the next stop, where you may buy a range of things, including organic goods and presents.
The National Gems and Gemmological Museum, a museum where you may learn about the gems in Sri Lanka, will be the destination of our upcoming excursion. Additionally, it provides comprehensive details about Sri Lanka’s ancient past, which dates back 4.6 billion years. Some of the most incredible minerals ever discovered are also on display. We’ll then proceed to the Kandy Cultural Dance Show. This breathtaking performance features a showcase of Sri Lankan dancing, emotion, and cultural heritage. You shouldn’t miss it since the dancers from the Kandy Lake club have been presenting it since about 1982. Its main goal is to perform every dance from Sri Lanka on a single platform. The Kandy retail mall is the last destination. You would spend the full day exploring each location and then be dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 6 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
On day six, you will go to Nuwara Eliya, a fascinating city in the Central Province’s highland country. Kandy is around 76 kilometers away from the “city of lights,” Nuwara Eliya. Astonishing mountain falls and incredible plant life are all around you on the mountain expedition. You can stop at a few places along the route. One such waterfall is the Ramboda Falls, which cascades over a cliff with a stratified stone wall just off the Nuwara Eliya road. The Ramboda Falls, which plunge from a height of 358 feet, is the eleventh-tallest cascade in Sri Lanka (109m). The Kothmale Oya’s Panna Oya feeder stream creates the cascade. The fact that it is surrounded by an emerald forest, which gives it an astounding perspective, renders it incomprehensible.
After that, we’ll head to the Damro Labookellie Tea Center and Tea Garden, one of the tea estates we visit on our trip to Nuwara Eliya. This Sri Lankan tea shop has been around the longest and was once called Mackwoods. It is a sizable 5000 hectares of opulent tea estates. Due to the fact that every tea has a different method of production, you will get to learn about both high-contrast tea methods. The tour of the industrial plant is free, and it is followed by a delicious tea tasting. You will then be taken directly to your accommodation in Nuwara Eliya for the night.
Day 7 – Nuwara Eliya to Ella by Train
On day seven of your Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, you will go to the fascinating Ella city, but first we will see several well-known locations in Nuwara Eliya, including Gregory Lake, which is located in the southern part of the town. The lake provides a tranquil atmosphere and a lovely view. It is a distinctive vacation spot that bears Sir William Gregory’s name; it was given that name in 1873. Visitors may take horseback rides, boat tours, leisurely strolls along the pathways, or visit the lake park, which is also a stunning location for a day trip. The Nuwara Eliya post office will be our next stop. In the center of the city is where the post office is located. The fact that the post office is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka is what makes it special. The building, which was built by the British in 1894, is a two-story redbrick edifice in the Tudor style with a clock tower. Vacationers can use the mailing station’s top level as a convenience.
Then, you will travel to the wonderful Ella city on the most spectacular train excursion. After being driven there, you will board the train at Nanu Oya Railway Station. The journey is one of Sri Lanka’s most romantic by rail. A must-do activity in Sri Lanka is to take in the breathtaking views of the country’s opulent green tea estates, mountains, bridges, valleys, and dense wildness. Additionally, it’s the best way to experience Sri Lankan culture. On the train, chat with friendly locals, wave to children running along the rails, and consume the hot snacks offered by vendors who board at each stop. You will be picked up at the Ella station and transported to Ella for your overnight hotel at the conclusion of the trip.
Day 8 – Ella City Tour
On day eight, we are scheduled to have a city tour around Ella. After breakfast, we’ll go to the Nine Arch Bridge, which you may have already seen on your train ride but is still worth visiting for its views and architecture. The Bridge in the Sky is another name for the Nine Arch Bridge. It is a building from the Colonial era with a viaduct bridge structure. We will next proceed to Little Adam’s Peak. Due to the summits’ similarities, Little Adam’s Peak, sometimes known as Mini Adam’s Peak, was awarded the illustrious Adams Peak moniker (Sri Pada). A simple climb to Little Adams Peak, where you can observe employees picking tea, leads to a spectacular peak covered with tea plantations. In the deep jungle, the sight is breathtaking. You won’t soon forget this ascent.
We’ll proceed to the Flying Ravana next. This is situated amidst the lush green estates of Ella and is the first gigantic twin zip-line ever constructed in Sri Lanka. The two-wire zip-line is more than 550 meters long, glides at a maximum speed of 80 kilometers per hour, and provides a birds-eye perspective of the island’s stunning highlands. Then we will be heading to Ella Rock. The Ella Rock Hike is a well-known cliff that rises 1041 meters (3415 feet) above sea level, high above the settlement of Ella. You are rewarded with the most beautiful vista across the nation’s hills when you reach the summit. The 8 km (or two-hour) Ella Rock walk is not particularly challenging. The grade isn’t too steep either. You travel past distinctive tea plantations, railroad lines, and the breathtaking Sri Lankan landscape as you ascend. Afterward, we will head back to the hotel for the night.
Day 9 – Ella to Yala
You’ll be on an adventure to Yala National Park on day nine. After breakfast, we’ll be traveling to the Ravana Falls, also called Ravana Ella and named for the mythical king Ravana. It is said that King Ravana abducted Princess Sita and kept her in a cave beneath the waterfall. It is the country’s largest fall. The waterfall takes on the appearance of an Areca blossom in the wetter months.
We will then head straight to Yala National Park, the nation’s second-largest national park and one that is flanked by the Indian Ocean, for your safari excursion. Only two of the park’s five blocks, Ruhunu and Kumana national parks, are accessible to the general public. Yala was designated as a refuge for animals in 1900. You will be driven to the hotel for supper and a night’s stay after the safari.
Day 10 – Yala to Mirissa
You’ll be driven directly to Mirissa on day 10. When you arrive in Mirissa, let’s go to Coconut Tree Hill. It’s possibly the most well-known site in Mirissa. Near Mirissa, there is a mineralized headland that borders the Indian Ocean. From the street, it takes around 10 to 15 minutes to stroll down to the beach. You have to take a picture in this stunning frame as you reach the top, which offers a breathtaking view of the beach and Mirissa Bay. You might then browse the town before retiring to your accommodation for the night.
Day 11 – Mirissa Whale Watching Tour
You will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see whales on the eleventh day since we have planned a whale-watching trip for the morning. These wonderful creatures allow you to get quite close to them. Whale and dolphin watching, which is possible in Mirissa, is one of Sri Lanka’s most thrilling aquatic sports. The warm waters around Sri Lanka are home to a variety of marine life, including killer whales on occasion, blue whales, Bryde’s whales, sperm whales, fin whales, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins. Spinner dolphins, striped dolphins, and Risso’s dolphins can also be sighted. The whale-watching season runs from November to April when the seas are calm and warm. You can stay at the beach hotel for the remainder of the day after the whale-watching trip.
Day 12 – Mirissa to Bentota through Galle
On the twelfth day of your Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, we will go to Bentota. We will go via Galle on the route to Bentota and stop to see the well-known Galle Fort, which is located on the Galle Coast. The Portuguese built it in 1588, and the Dutch renovated it starting in 1649. Despite being over 432 years old, it still retains a beautiful aspect and is today recognized as an important architectural landmark. Our next trip will be to the See Turtle Hatchery Farm in Galle, which aims to increase the baby turtles’ robustness. A guide, starting at the front entrance, will give you a tour of the building. We’ll then travel to the lovely Madu River in Balapitiya town for a boat trip. Numerous islands are formed by the nearby stream, and a stunning wetland is also produced by the area’s biological system. You will be driven to the hotel because it is the end of the day.
Day 13 – Departure
On day twelve of your fantastic Sri Lanka 13 Days Sightseeing Tour, our guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you back to the airport in time for your departure. The Sri Lanka 13 days sightseeing tour you booked with Lanka Budget Tours will be spectacular and gorgeous.
