Heritage – 17 Days Tour

Heritage Tours are tours that focus on exploring the historical and cultural heritage of a destination. These tours typically take you to famous landmarks, historical sites, and museums, where you can learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the destination. You will have the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, iconic monuments, and religious sites, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions. Heritage Tours are led by expert guides who are passionate about the destination’s history and culture and can provide you with in-depth information about the sites you visit. These tours are perfect for those who love history, architecture, and art, and want to gain a better appreciation for the cultural heritage of a destination.

Tour Details

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Itinerary

Day 1: Airport to Negombo

Upon your arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be met by your driver/guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Negombo. Negombo is a coastal city located just a short distance from the airport, making it a convenient stop for travellers arriving in Sri Lanka. Once you reach your hotel, you can relax and unwind from your flight and explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Day 2: Negombo to Anuradhapura

After breakfast, you will leave Negombo and head towards Anuradhapura. This ancient city was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE and is home to a wealth of archaeological sites and ancient ruins. Along the way, you can stop at a few interesting places such as the Aukana Buddha statue, the Ritigala Forest Reserve, or the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, one of the oldest living trees in the world. Upon reaching Anuradhapura, you can check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 3: Anuradhapura (Atamasthana)

Today, you will explore Anuradhapura and its many ancient sites and monuments, including the Atamasthana, which are the eight sacred places visited by Buddha during his three visits to Sri Lanka. These sites include the Sri Maha Bodhi, the Ruwanwelisaya, the Jetavanaramaya, and the Abhayagiri Dagoba, among others. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can provide you with information and insights about the history and significance of each of these sites. After a full day of sightseeing, you will return to your hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 4: Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel and head towards Polonnaruwa, another ancient city in Sri Lanka that was once the capital during the 11th and 12th centuries CE. Along the way, you can stop at the Aukana Buddha statue or the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you reach Polonnaruwa, you can check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 5: Polonnaruwa full day and Minneriya

Safari Today, you will explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, including its many ruins and temples such as the Royal Palace, the Lotus Pond, and the Gal Vihara. After lunch, you will head to the nearby Minneriya National Park for a safari tour, where you can see a variety of wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds. You will then return to your hotel in Polonnaruwa for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Polonnaruwa to Dambulla and Sigiriya

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Polonnaruwa and head towards Dambulla, where you can visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features ancient cave paintings and statues of Buddha. From there, you will continue to Sigiriya to climb the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring Sigiriya, you will check into your hotel in the area.
Day 7: Dambulla to Kandy

After breakfast, you will be driven to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. You can visit the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, and the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha statue.
Day 8: Kandy - Maligawa, Lake, Bahirawakanda

This day will be dedicated to exploring Kandy, including a visit to the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy Lake, and the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha statue.
Day 9: Kandy, Ambuluwawa, and Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, you will be driven to Ambuluwawa, a scenic viewpoint near Kandy. Later in the day, you will drive to Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations and cool climate.
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya to Yala

After breakfast, you will be driven to Yala National Park, one of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and birds.
Day 11: Yala Safari

This day will be dedicated to exploring Yala National Park on a jeep safari. You can observe wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Day 12: Yala to Galle

After breakfast, you will be driven to Galle, a coastal town known for its colonial history and charming atmosphere. You can explore the town's historic fort and relax on the beach.
Day 13: Galle Fort

On the thirteenth day of the itinerary, travellers will explore the historic Galle Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Fort has a rich history and is a mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture. Travellers will have the opportunity to stroll through the Fort's cobblestone streets and visit attractions like the Dutch Reformed Church, the National Maritime Museum, and the Old Dutch Hospital, which has been converted into a shopping and dining precinct.
Day 14: Galle Whale Watching

On the fourteenth day, travellers will embark on a thrilling whale-watching adventure off the coast of Galle. The waters around Galle are home to a variety of whale species, including blue whales, sperm whales, and humpback whales. Travellers will board a boat and set out into the open ocean in search of these majestic creatures. Along the way, they may also spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life.
Day 15 and 16: Colombo

Days 15 and 16 will be spent in the bustling capital city of Colombo. Travellers can explore the city's many attractions, including the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and the National Museum. They can also shop for souvenirs and try out the city's delicious street food. In the evening, they can head to the waterfront to enjoy the sunset and a refreshing sea breeze.
Day 17: Colombo to Airport

On the seventeenth and final day of the itinerary, travellers will depart from Colombo and head to the airport for their flight back home. They can reflect on the amazing experiences they have had in Sri Lanka and bid farewell to the beautiful island nation.