Unknown cultural treasures in Jaffna and Anuradhapura. Bavid on the pristine beaches of Passikuda followed by some of the country’s more famous cultural highlights and the tranquility of Kithugala’s forests. Check smber for agriculture and fishing in Sri Lanka.
A trip you can make both summer and winter. You will see Sri Lanka’s most famous sites such as the Lion Rock in Sigiriya, the cave temples of Dambulla and the ancient capital of Kandy with temples and Canadian dances. But also exciting places in the north like Anuradhapuara, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Jaffna. Swim on pristine beaches and visit the islands Delft and Nagadeepa. What an exciting and different journey!
Day 1: Departure from ScandinaviaDay 2: Negombo
On arrival at the airport you are welcomed and have a transfer to your hotel in Negombo, where you can rest after the long flight. ( F )
Day 3: Transfer to Jaffna
After breakfast, it’s off to Jaffna. Along the way you will visit the ancient city of Thanthirimale which is famous for its Buddhist temple. It was undiscovered until the beginning of the 19th century. You also stop in the city of Mannar, which every August is one of the most important destinations in Sri Lanka for Catholics. At the end of the day you arrive in Jaffna and can relax after the day’s long drive. ( F )
Day 4: Jaffna and visit the islands Delft and Nagadeepa
After breakfast, you will be taken to the local ferry to the windswept island of Delft. Along the way you can see when the local fishermen throw nets into the water. Delft is a flat island surrounded by shallow water and coral beaches. It is known for its wild horses and the unique walls that are built of dead corals. On the north coast there is also a small Tamil community. You get around the island by car. Later in the day, take off and take a boat ride to Nagadeepa Island, home to some of the region’s holiest temples. ( F )
Day 5: Tour of Jaffna
Today it carries off to the fortress which was built in Jaffna in 1680 and recently restored. You also visit Jaffna’s library, which was destroyed during the Civil War, but rebuilt with respect for the original architecture. Then you can go and see the holy Hindu temple Nallur Kovil. You spend the rest of the day on your own. ( F )
Day 6: Transfer to Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka. One of the highlights of the city is the sacred tree Sri Maha Bodhi. It is said to have been planted with a shoot from the tree where the Buddha received his enlightenment. Pilgrims and monks flock to the city, so it’s worth stopping by and enjoying the lively atmosphere. ( F )
Day 7: Past Mihintale and on to the beautiful beaches of Passikuda
Today you take your breakfast as a lunch bag and head to the mountains at Mihint Hale, east of Anuradhapura. It is a place visited by many pilgrims and they have long used the area’s rainforest, ruins and caves as havens for meditation. The journey continues along the coast towards the pristine beaches of Passikuda. Along the way you can see small temples, shops and eateries serving traditional Tamil dishes. ( F )
Day 8: Relax on the beach in Passikuda
Enjoy a dip in the sea and a walk along the beach. The area is quiet and offers complete relaxation. ( F )
Day 9: Cave temple in Dambulla
Today you head to Dambulla where you can see the rock temple built by King Walagambahu. Nowadays, the area is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here you will also find one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive cave temples, which has a large number of murals, as well as an impressive amount of Buddha statues. ( F )
Day 10: Visit to the ruined city of Polonnawaruwa and safari in Minneriya
The morning is spent in the stunning city of Polonnawaruwa, next to the great lake Parakrama Samudra and the many archeological sites. The city is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the afternoon it is time for a safari in Minneriya, which is known for its large elephant population. If you are lucky, you will see a leopard or a lip bear. ( F )
Day 11: Via Sigiriya to Kandy
Today the trip goes to Sigiriya where you can see the sacred rock formations. This city is also a World Heritage Site. You get your heart rate up properly on the steep steps, but the view from the top is worth the effort. Later, there is a departure to Sri Lanka’s Capital of Culture, Kandy. Once there, you can admire the beautiful lake and the colorful bazaar. In the evening, we recommend a visit to the “Temple of the Tooth”, which according to legend houses one of the Buddha’s teeth. You then have the opportunity to experience an entertaining performance with Canadian dance. ( F )
Day 12: On your own in Kandy
Spend the day just the way you want. Kandy is a charming old kingdom that is beautifully situated by a lake, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and jungle. Take a walk on the narrow and beautiful streets, stroll around the bazaar and explore the city’s craft center. ( F )
Day 13: End in the forests of Kithugala
At the end of the trip you drive to the wonderful forest landscape at Kithulgala. Here you have the opportunity to buy for an adventure with rafting, which is a challenge whether you are experienced or a beginner. Kithugala has become Sri Lanka’s center for outdoor activities, so if you are craving a bike ride, hiking or other excursion, you can take advantage here. ( F )
Day 14: Departure from Sri Lanka
You will be picked up at the hotel and driven to the airport for a return trip to Scandinavia. ( F )
Day 15: Arrival in Scandinavia
Overnight stays
Twelve nights in a standard hotel
