Culture and Heritage (9 Days)

The Golden Temple of Dambulla dates back to the 1st century BC, with murals depicting the life of the Buddha and hundreds of Buddha and deity figurines across five main caves, including the Cave of the Divine King and the Cave of the Great King. A giant golden Buddha statue stands a short distance outside the cave complex.

This orphanage in Sabaragamuwa province cares for young elephants displaced or lost from the wild, and is now home to one of the largest captive groups of elephants in the world.

Sri Lanka's second major ancient capital flourished between the 10th and 13th centuries AD. Highlights among the ruins include Gal Vihara, the Vatadage, the lotus bath, Lankathilaka Temple and a statue associated with King Parakramabahu.

A jeep safari through the park offers a chance to see elephants, along with other mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians across its scrubland and forest. Between May and October large herds gather here in what is known as the Great Elephant Gathering.

This 5th-century AD rock fortress was built by King Kasyapa, entered through an approach framed by giant lion's paws. Visitors climb past the famous unfading murals, terraced gardens and still-working cisterns, and through tunnels leading to the former palace.

A guided tour of a spice and herbal garden near Matale, known as the spice capital of Sri Lanka, introduces spices such as coriander, chilli, cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg and their uses, along with the basics of Ayurveda.

This hour-long evening show features traditional Kandyan dancing, fire and sword dancers, and drumming.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 16th century to house and protect the Buddha's sacred tooth relic, with painted halls, carved pillars and gilded statues.

A stop is made at Ramboda Falls, the 11th tallest waterfall in the country.

An evening walk through this former British hill resort takes in its cottages, villas and mansions, the old red-brick post office, Queen Victoria Park and the shores of Lake Gregory.

This hatchery on the south-western coast works to protect the nests of five endangered sea turtle species, and visitors can see, touch and sometimes feed baby turtles and injured adults in its care.

A boat ride through the mangrove-lined Madu River near Balapitiya passes basking crocodiles and water monitors, a small island where cinnamon is harvested, and a fish massage experience, with waterbirds visible along the way.

The old colonial city of Galle, once a Portuguese and Dutch stronghold, is one of the best-preserved fortifications in Asia, with museums, a lighthouse and cobblestone streets with Dutch names.

An evening in Colombo takes in landmarks such as the Old Lighthouse, the Old Parliament, Galle Face Hotel, Galle Face Green, Gangarama Temple and the National Museum, as well as shops around Independence Square and the Race Course.