10 Days of Cultural Discovery

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (Katunayake), you will be warmly greeted by a representative of We Ceylon Tours.

Begin your journey by heading straight to the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle — Sigiriya, known for its majestic rock fortress and tranquil surroundings. On the way, you’ll witness beautiful rural landscapes, lush paddy fields, and village life.

Check in to your hotel in Sigiriya and relax after your flight. If time permits, enjoy a traditional village tour with a bullock cart ride, catamaran experience, and a local cooking demo — a perfect cultural introduction.

📍 Overnight Stay: Sigiriya

Travel north to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the sacred capital of Sri Lanka's earliest kingdom. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura is a spiritual epicenter with awe-inspiring dagobas, monastic ruins, and historical depth.

• Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree (planted in 3rd century BCE)

• Marvel at Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiri Monastery

• Learn about Buddhist philosophy and monastic life through your local guide

📍 Overnight Stay: Anuradhapura

In the morning, climb the stone steps to Mihintale, the site where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka in 247 BCE by Mahinda Thera. This peaceful hilltop monastery offers panoramic views and a deep spiritual ambiance.

Later, continue your journey to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital filled with royal ruins, graceful statues, and reservoirs that still function today.

• Visit Gal Vihara, Parakrama Samudra, Royal Palace, and Vatadage

• Optional: Bicycle tour around the archaeological park

📍 Overnight Stay: Polonnaruwa

After breakfast, head to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century engineering marvel built by King Kasyapa. Climb to the top to explore ancient frescoes, water gardens, and stunning views.

In the afternoon, enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan village tour in the Sigiriya countryside:

• Bullock cart ride through paddy fields

• Boat ride on a lake

• Lunch prepared in a village kitchen using traditional methods

📍 Overnight Stay: Sigiriya / Habarana

Visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with over 150 Buddha statues and ancient murals within five spectacular caves.

Continue to Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka and a stronghold of Buddhist culture.

En route, stop at a spice garden in Matale and learn how spices like cinnamon and cardamom are grown and used in Ayurvedic treatments.

📍 Overnight Stay: Kandy

Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses one of the most sacred relics of the Buddha.

Later, explore:

• Royal Botanical Gardens – Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 plant species

• Kandy Lake and local craft centers for batik, gemstones, and wood carvings

• In the evening, enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance show with traditional drumming and fire-walking

📍 Overnight Stay: Kandy

Travel into the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" for its colonial architecture and cool climate. On the way, stop at a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka's iconic Ceylon tea.

Explore:

• Gregory Lake

• Victorian post office, colonial mansions, and racecourse

• Visit Seetha Amman Temple, linked to the Hindu epic Ramayana

📍 Overnight Stay: Nuwara Eliya

Take a breathtaking train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella (or drive), winding through rolling tea estates, mountain passes, and lush forest.

In Ella, explore:

• The Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural wonder from the British era

• Short hike to Little Adam’s Peak for stunning panoramic views

• Visit Ravana Falls, named after the mythical king of Lanka

📍 Overnight Stay: Ella

Descend to the south coast and travel to Galle, one of the best-preserved colonial towns in Asia. Walk along the ramparts of Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Visit:

• Dutch Church, National Museum, and Galle Lighthouse

• Local art galleries and handcraft boutiques

• Optional: Stop at Ambalangoda Mask Museum to learn about Sri Lankan devil mask culture

📍 Overnight Stay: Galle or Unawatuna

After breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight. If time permits, enjoy a short Colombo city tour covering:

• Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, Old Parliament

• Local markets or souvenir shops for last-minute shopping

📍 End of Tour