Overview
"Cultural and Wildlife Highlights: 6-Day Sri Lanka Discovery" is a journey that combines Sri Lanka’s rich heritage sites with its extraordinary wildlife experiences. Starting from Colombo, the tour takes you to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to interact with rescued elephants, followed by an immersion into the spiritual atmosphere of Kandy at the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The following day, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, where intricate murals and serene Buddha statues await, and spend the night near the historical Sigiriya.
The tour’s wildlife highlight is a thrilling safari at Minneriya National Park, famous for its large elephant gatherings. From here, delve into the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, a city rich in sacred relics and architectural grandeur. After exploring Sri Lanka’s first capital, you’ll return to Kandy for a cultural show and some relaxation, concluding your trip with a scenic drive back to Colombo. This 6-day adventure encapsulates the essence of Sri Lanka, blending cultural depth with awe-inspiring wildlife experiences.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Colombo (arrival and departure)
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Kandy
- Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Kandy Lake
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens (optional)
- Evening cultural dance performance
- Dambulla
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Sigiriya
- Minneriya National Park
- Wildlife safari (elephants, leopards, birds, and more)
- Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
- Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
- Isurumuniya Temple
- Jetavanaramaya Stupa
NK Lanka Tours:
See something you don't like or want to change? You can choose the duration and type of trip that best suites you: summit hikes, cultural communities, charming hotels, rafting, beach, diving... Let us design the perfect trip for you.
OVERVIEW:
Start/End: Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (or alternative location - additional cost)
Duration: 6 days/ 5 nights
Included/Excluded
- Specialized bilingual guide
- Private Transport
- Entrance fees (Cable and car and Moon Valley)
- Box lunch water, banana apple and chocolate
- Departure Taxes
- Entry Fees
- 5 Star Accommodation
- Airport Transfers
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo and Transfer to Kandy
- Arrive in Colombo and transfer to Kandy.
- En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe elephants up close, including feeding and bathing times.
- Arrive in Kandy and explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.
- Evening stroll around Kandy Lake and free time for local shopping.
- Overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 2: Kandy to Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya
- Depart from Kandy to Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Buddha statues and intricate murals within the caves.
- Continue to Sigiriya for an afternoon visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (optional), or enjoy a free evening in the lush surroundings.
- Overnight stay in Dambulla or Sigiriya area.
Day 3: Sigiriya to Minneriya National Park
- Morning at leisure to explore more of Sigiriya, or take a village tour nearby.
- In the afternoon, head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting wildlife safari. Look out for the famous “Gathering” of wild elephants, as well as spotted deer, leopards, and an array of birdlife.
- Overnight stay in the Sigiriya or Dambulla area.
Day 4: Explore Anuradhapura
- Travel to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital filled with magnificent stupas, monasteries, and ancient relics.
- Visit significant sites such as Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Isurumuniya Temple, and Jetavanaramaya Stupa.
- Explore the serene atmosphere and learn about the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
- Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.
Day 5: Back to Kandy and Relaxation
- Return to Kandy with stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
- Afternoon free for relaxation or an optional visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
- Enjoy an evening cultural dance performance, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan music and dance forms.
- Overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 6: Return to Colombo and Departure
- Depart Kandy for Colombo.
- En route, make any last-minute souvenir or handicraft purchases.
- Arrive in Colombo in time for your onward journey, bringing an end to your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural and wildlife treasures.