Cultural Triangle

Dive deeper into the cultural history of what was once called Ceylon, former kingdom of Sinhalese Kings & Queens, the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, cave temples, the ancient ruins of Lion Rock and other ruins. Come travel the triangle with us!

See for yourself why clients are calling their private trip to Sri Lanka “amazing”…..

Day 1 Arrival / Colombo

Your arrival in Colombo marks the start of your experience on the Isle of Serendib. In the arrival hall of Bandaranayake International Airport you will find your English speaking host and driver. We take pride in selecting professional and personable drivers to set you immediately at ease.

Once outside the airport you’ll be enthralled with warm temperatures and the whisper of palm leaves colliding in the gentle breeze. Visually you’ll be pleasantly overwhelmed with color and greenery.

You’ll be taken directly to your hotel to refresh yourself before your Colombo city tuk-tuk safari. While touring you will visit the magnificent stone edifice at Independence Square which commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948. Then take a tour of Gangarama Temple which is the oldest Buddhist temple in Colombo.

If time permits, the Red Mosque in the bustling market area known as Pettah is a must-see. Nearby the Dutch hospital is considered to be the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area dating back to Dutch colonialism. Now newly refurbished to offer the best of dining, shopping and spas; stay to enjoy high tea at the world-famous Galle Face hotel. You may choose to wrap up the city tour by taking a stroll oceanside on the Galle Face Green as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

Day 2 Colombo

Today a private guide will take you more into the depths of the history of Colombo. You will visit the Colombo Museum which was established by the British in 1877. There are many artifacts and interesting exhibits that highlight the history of Sri Lanka.

You could choose an afternoon massage or ayurvedic treatment at your hotel. In addition, you could cool off in the swimming pool or enjoy a cool drink poolside. For dinner you’ll be pleasantly surprised by all Sri Lankan fare as you discover different varieties of curry.

Day 3 Kandy

Imagine waking up on the coast of the Indian Ocean in your exotic island paradise.

Today you’ll be winding your way to Kandy by private vehicle. As the city fades you’ll begin to see agricultural and village life. Your driver may stop on the way for you to taste fresh cashews that are sold along the roadside just before you begin the climb up into the mountains to the largest city in the Central province. On the way you may choose to take a detour to walk alongside the majestic Asian elephant at the Millenium Elephant Foundation.

You’ll now enjoy the Royal Botanical Gardens which are the largest gardens in Sri Lanka. The climate of Kandy allows for hundreds of species of fauna and flora at about 500 meters above sea level. Imagine being surrounded by nature and clean mountain air that inspires.

Following the gardens you’ll be transported to your hotel for the evening. Be sure to try a King Coconut water or Elephant House Ginger Beer which are both favorite beverages here.

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Day 4 Kandy

The magic of the former Kandy Kingdom comes alive as you visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhalese kings. This Buddhist temple is a UNESCO world heritage site that is within the royal palace complex. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in the local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic of the Buddha’s tooth holds the governance of the nation. Take a few minutes to visit the Sri Dalada Museum also on the same site and keep an eye out for monkeys who prowl around this area.

Following the temple and museum, your private guide will take on a tour of the town of Kandy including the famous Kandy Lake. Be sure to make a few stops along the way and enjoy a cold drink or ice cream offered by the many vendors along the paved route. Also, don’t miss the newly renovated Queens’ bathing house situated on the west side of the lake.

If you’re visiting during the month of August you’ll be in for the experience of a lifetime with the Esala Perahera. This annual procession of dancers, drummers, costumed participants, silk gowned elephants, spearmen and flag bearers parade around the city with great flair!

Day 5 Dambulla

The journey today takes you north from Kandy into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. In Dambulla, you’ll see the best preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka. Cave #2 will impress you with over 150 life sized statues of the Buddha along with extravagant murals.

After your cave temple tour, you’ll draw closer to the area of Sigiriya Rock. Enjoy some down time at your hotel and get a good nights’ rest in preparation for your early morning hike tomorrow.

Day 6 Sigiriya Rock / Minneriya National Park

Beat the heat and set out early for your ascent 200 meters to the top of this former citadel of Sri Lanka known as Lion Rock. There are beautiful caves and water gardens around the base of this mountain. While hiking and winding up the staircase to the top you’ll see the famous damsel frescoes. Enjoy a short rest and the beautiful view at the top while looking over the footers for the once famous palace.

After your morning Sigiriya adventure you’ll take part in a jeep safari in Minneriya. This park is known for lots of bird species, sambar, spotted deer, macaque, monkeys, sloth bears and even leopards. It is one of the best parks to observe elephants as well.

Day 7 Pollonnaruwa

The morning starts early as you are transported to the former capital of Sri Lanka in Pollonnaruwa where you’ll be introduced to the most preserved ruins from the 11 th & 13 th centuries that the country has to offer. After your private tour you’ll travel to the eastern coast city of Trincomalee.

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Day 8 Trincomalee

On this particular leg of the tour, get ready to soak in the sun, enjoy the ocean view and take in the beauty of the east coast as you lounge on the perfect white powdery sand of Nilaveli Beach. Another favorite is Marble Beach, a cove where white sands join turquoise water awaiting your arrival.

For those wanting to explore, you can venture out to the Koneswaram Temple. Situated on a cliff above the Indian Ocean, this is a Hindu temple dating back to 1580 BC located inside Fort Frederick. The Temple was built by the Portuguese in 1624 from the ruins of an ancient Hindu temple. Take some time to learn about the history of the east coast of Sri Lanka. After the morning of adventure and exploration you may want to play a round of golf at Eagles Golf Links nearby.

Day 9 Trincomalee

You will have the chance to snorkel at Pigeon Island where some of the best coral reef in the Indian Ocean lies undisturbed. If you choose to scuba dive, you can also view underwater ancient Hindu statues. There are many great sites for diving and snorkeling where you can see fish, sharks and sea turtles. Take a private boat out to see Blue Whales, Sperm Whales and dolphins. Recently the world’s largest mammal, the Whale Shark, has been seen here!

Day 10 Anuradhapura

This morning you will travel through the cultural triangle to Anuradhapura. This was the island’s first ancient capital dating back to 380 BC. Today you’ll get to see this UNESCO world heritage site for yourself. You’ll be able to view the ruins of 3 great monasteries along with what is believed to be the world’s oldest living tree under which the Buddha was enlightened. Many will choose to take in these sites on our guided cycling tour.

The evening will be a time of rest & relaxation at your hotel in Anuradhapura as you consider what you’ve seen thus far.

Day 11 Negombo/ Departure

This morning you will set out toward Negombo. Dependent upon your departure time you could enjoy a walk on the beach or any number of beach activities. If you’re wanting to interact with the local culture, you could explore the Negombo fish market. Catamaran rides are also available before you get ready for your return home.