(SKU: LK10346011)
Tales of Ancient Ceylon from Colombo (3 Days)
Tales of Ancient Ceylon is a short, 3-day tour into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites beginning from the historical Dambulla Golden Cave Temple complex that once served as both an ancient kingdom as well as a monastery for Buddhist monks and pilgrims. This site dates back to the 1st Century BC and has a mesmerizing story to tell. Climb the Sigiriya ‘Lion Rock’ Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortification of stone was home to King Kasyapa during the 5th Century AD. The ruined city of Polonnaruwa is the next site on the list and has a history dating back as far as the 10th Century AD. It is considered one of Sri Lanka’s prime examples of ancient culture and heritage. You will also go on a Wildlife Safari in Minneriya National Park.
Includes
- Transport in a Private Vehicle, Fuel, Parking & Highway tolls.
- Service of English-Speaking Chauffeur Guide.
- All prevailing taxes and service charges.
- 2 x 500ml Water Bottles per Person per Day.
Excludes
- Hotel Accommodation and Meals.
- Chauffeur Guide's Accommodation.
- Entrance fees to the respective sites.
- Any expenses of personal nature.
- Visa and Related Expenses.
What to Expect
Day 1
Colombo > Dambulla > Sigiriya
1 Stops
Dambulla Cave Temple
Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Admission Ticket Free
Day 2
Sigiriya > Polonnaruwa > Minneriya > Sigiriya
2 Stops
Polonnaruwa
Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the second major capital of Sri Lanka. Walk through the ruins of the city that flourished between the 10th to the 13th century AD. View important monuments such as Gal Vihara, Vatadage, the lotus bath, Lankathilaka Temple and the statue of King Parakramabahu whose reign was considered the golden age of Polonnaruwa.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Admission Ticket Free
Minneriya National Park
This safari takes you on a ride through the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Admission Ticket Included
Day 3
Sigiriya > Colombo
2 Stops
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress
Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns.
- Duration: 2 hour
- Admission Ticket Included
Sigiriya
Get a chance to go on an oxen cart ride. Have a relaxing catamaran safari through a calm lake. Walk through the golden fields ripe with their harvest of paddy. Delight your taste buds with a home-cooked lunch; made over a wood-fire and served on fragrant lotus leaves placed over woven trays. Enjoy the life of a Sri Lankan villager, just this day.
- Duration: 2 hour
- Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 3 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Comfortable clothes and hats recommended.
- Infant seats available
- Most travelers can participate.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.