A 7 Day Cultural Tour of Sri Lanka will allow you to explore the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Below is an itinerary covering the island’s key cultural landmarks and experiences:
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
- Arrive in Colombo: The commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
- Explore Colombo: Visit Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, Colombo National Museum, Pettah Market, and the Dutch Hospital for shopping and dining.
- Overnight: Stay in Colombo.
Day 2: Colombo to Anuradhapura
- Morning: Drive to Anuradhapura (approximately 4-5 hours).
- Explore Anuradhapura: Visit Sri Maha Bodhi (the sacred tree), Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Isurumuniya Temple, and the Abhayagiri Monastery.
- Overnight: Stay in Anuradhapura.
Day 3: Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa
- Morning: Drive to Polonnaruwa (1.5 hours).
- Explore Polonnaruwa: Visit the ancient ruins of Gal Vihara (rock temples), Parakrama Samudra, Royal Palace, and Lankatilaka Temple.
- Overnight: Stay in Polonnaruwa.
Day 4: Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya & Dambulla
- Morning: Drive to Sigiriya (1.5 hours).
- Explore Sigiriya: Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and climb to the summit for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, known for its beautiful Buddha statues and murals.
- Overnight: Stay in Sigiriya or Dambulla.
Day 5: Sigiriya to Kandy
- Morning: Drive to Kandy (2.5–3 hours).
- Explore Kandy: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy Lake, and explore the Royal Palace and Kandy Market.
- Cultural Show: In the evening, watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance at the Kandy Cultural Centre.
- Overnight: Stay in Kandy.
Day 6: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
- Morning: Drive to Nuwara Eliya (2.5–3 hours).
- Explore Nuwara Eliya: Visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Gregory Lake, Tea Plantations, and the Nuwara Eliya Golf Course.
- Experience: Enjoy the cooler climate and colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England.”
- Overnight: Stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya to Colombo (Departure)
- Morning: Drive back to Colombo (5–6 hours) or take the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Colombo.
- Explore Colombo: Depending on your flight time, visit the Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo National Museum, or the Galle Face Green.
- Departure: Head to the airport for your flight back.
Tour Highlights
- Visit ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.
- Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temples.
- Experience the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
- Take a scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, known for its tea plantations and colonial charm.
- Immerse in traditional Kandyan cultural performances and ancient art.
This 7-day tour offers a balance of cultural exploration and scenic beauty, ideal for those wanting to experience Sri Lanka’s history, architecture, and natural landscapes.