Hill Country
Overview
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, a UNESCO World Heritage region that encompasses some of the island's most magnificent ancient cities and sacred sites. This 5-day tour takes you back in time to explore the golden age of Sinhalese civilization, from the 8th-century rock fortress of Sigiriya to the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
Discover architectural marvels that have stood for over a millennium, witness traditional cultural performances, and immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Buddhism. Your expert guide will bring history to life as you explore cave temples adorned with centuries-old frescoes, climb to breathtaking viewpoints, and walk in the footsteps of ancient kings.
Highlights
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and see the famous frescoes
- Explore the golden cave temples of Dambulla with over 150 Buddha statues
- Discover the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa by bicycle
- Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
- Enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance
- Stroll through Kandy's Royal Botanical Gardens
- Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and hospitality
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival & Transfer to Habarana
Upon arrival at Colombo International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to Habarana in the Cultural Triangle region (approximately 4 hours). En route, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to see rescued elephants bathing in the river. Check into your hotel and relax after your journey. Evening at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple
Early morning climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Ascend 1,200 steps to the summit where ancient palace ruins offer panoramic views. Marvel at the 5th-century frescoes of celestial maidens along the way. After lunch, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and magnificent ceiling paintings dating back 2,000 years.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Journey to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's medieval capital from the 11th-13th centuries. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site by bicycle, visiting the Royal Palace complex, Gal Vihara's impressive rock-carved Buddha statues, and the ancient Parakrama Samudra reservoir. Discover well-preserved temples, stupas, and stone sculptures that showcase the grandeur of ancient Sinhalese civilization. Return to Habarana for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Transfer to Kandy via Spice Garden
Depart for Kandy, stopping at a traditional spice garden in Matale. Learn about Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and other spices that made Sri Lanka famous. Continue to Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses Buddha's tooth relic and is Buddhism's most important pilgrimage site. In the evening, enjoy a vibrant Kandyan cultural dance performance featuring traditional drumming, acrobatics, and fire walking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Royal Botanical Gardens & Departure
Morning visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, featuring over 4,000 plant species including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and the famous Giant Java Fig tree. Stroll through the stunning landscaped gardens established in 1843. Enjoy scenic views of the Mahaweli River before departing for Colombo Airport (3.5 hours) or continuing your Sri Lankan adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included in Tour
- 4 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels
- All meals as specified (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking chauffeur guide
- Entrance fees to all monuments and attractions
- Bicycle rental in Polonnaruwa
- Kandyan cultural dance performance tickets
- Government taxes and service charges
- Bottled water during transfers
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and tips
- Meals not specified in itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
- Camera and video permits at some sites
Services
Accommodation
4 nights in selected hotels
Meals
All meals included
Transportation
Private A/C vehicle
Guide
English-speaking guide
Entrance Fees
All site tickets included
Activities
Cultural shows & tours
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (lots of climbing)
- Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)
- Sunhat and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- Light jacket for air-conditioned vehicles
