Masterpieces of Heritage (8 Days)

Enjoy the sandy beaches of Negombo on the west coast and watch its centuries-old fishing industry at work. Options include water sports and diving around a 50-year-old shipwreck just off the coast, home to many varieties of fish.

An important regional Hindu temple complex in Chilaw dating back at least to 1000 CE, linked in local myth to the Ramayana and its hero-king Rama, and one of five ancient temples dedicated to Shiva in the region.

Explore the northern peninsula and its capital city, including the architecture of ancient Hindu temples such as Nallur, Nainativu and Mavittapuram. Other sights include Jaffna's Dutch Fort, war memorials, the Saraswathy Mahal Library, Nagadeepa Vihara and the palace of Jaffna's last king, Cankili I.

Known to the Sinhalese as Nagadeepa and in ancient times as Manipallavam, this island is linked to the Naga people, who are believed to have worshipped the snake, or Naga.

One of only sixteen of the holiest Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, believed to be the place Buddha stopped at during his second visit to the island, with its own distinct architecture and legends.

A Hindu temple with a documented history of at least two millennia, referenced by Ptolemy, known for its Dravidian architecture with four Gopurams, several mandapams and chariots, and counted among the 64 Shakthi Peedams worldwide.

Sri Lanka's second major ancient capital, flourishing between the 10th and 13th centuries AD. Walk among its ruins, including the Gal Vihara, the Vatadage, the lotus bath, the Lankathilaka Temple and the statue of King Parakramabahu, whose reign marked the city's golden age.

Climb the 5th-century rock fortress built under King Kasyapa, entering through the paws of the lion that gives the rock its name. See the fading frescoes, the terraced gardens, the still-working cisterns and the tunnels leading up to the former palace.

Go on safari through the park's scrublands and forests, home to mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Between May and October the park is known for the Great Elephant Gathering, when over 150 elephants congregate in one place.

Enter the caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating to the 1st century BC, to see murals depicting the life of the Buddha and hundreds of Buddha and deity figurines across its 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 complex.

A guided tour of a spice and herbal garden near Matale, Sri Lanka's spice capital, covering coriander, chilli, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and other spices, along with their uses and links to Ayurveda.

An evening of traditional Kandyan dance and music, including fire dancers, sword dancers and drumming, alongside tours of local arts such as gem crafting, woodcarving and batik.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 16th century to house and protect the Buddha's sacred tooth relic, with painted halls in red, cream and black, carved pillars and golden statues.

Tour the capital's landmarks, including the Old Lighthouse, the Old Parliament, Galle Face Hotel, Galle Face Green, Gangarama Temple and the National Museum, along with shopping around Independence Square and the Race Course.