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Tour Overview
Join this guaranteed departure tour, discover Sri Lanka’s central highlands, and behold a world of spectacular landscapes, picturesque lakeside cities, historic temples, and ancient citadels. Breathe in the fragrances of Sri Lanka in the local herb and spice gardens. Enjoy fascinating cultural shows, and spiritual experiences, and observe the mesmerising contrasts between the old-world charms and modernity of the capital, over five unforgettable days travelling across this idyllic island. ...more ...less
Highlights
Sigiriya: The ‘Lion Rock’ rises almost 200 metres above the jungle and offers stunning panoramic views
Kandy: This beautiful city is home to the outstanding Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its associated palaces and gardens
Dambulla: Discover an impressive cave temple consisting of five caverns decorated with painted walls and ceilings
Polonnaruwa: The breathtaking ruined medieval capital of Sri Lanka remains in excellent condition despite the ravage
Colombo: Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital is both a historic city packed with colonial architecture and a modern metropolis with soaring skyscrapers
Itinerary
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Accommodation Name: Sorowwa Resort & Spa or similar 3*, Thilanka Hotel or similar 4*, Cinnamon Lodge 5*
Arrive at the International Airport in Colombo. Our representative will meet and greet you, then transfer you to impressive Dambulla. Heading inland, the climate becomes cooler, the landscapes more verdant, and the countryside hillier. After this fun and wild interlude, continue to Dambulla and check in to your hotel. (You can arrive at Colombo Airport on or before 10.00 am).
Accommodation Name: Sorowwa Resort & Spa or similar 3*, Thilanka Hotel or similar 4*, Cinnamon Lodge 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a delicious breakfast, take to the road for a day steeped in Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. Begin with fearlessly climbing to the fifth-century Sigiriya fortress, which sits atop a rock that dramatically rises almost 200 metres above the rainforest. King Kashyapa built this citadel at the top of this giant boulder known as the ‘Lion Rock’. It used to be the innermost stronghold of a vast fortified city, but in the time it came to be abandoned and forgotten, covered by dense overgrowth until the British found it and began a painstaking archaeological exploration. Today, the remnants of this once thriving city offer a tantalising indication of what once stood here. Climb to the top and enjoy the breathtaking views over the paradisical landscape. In the afternoon, discover the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Built about 1,000 years ago, it features a large artificial lake feeding a network of irrigation canals, the remains of a royal palace, and a number of temples and administrative buildings. Admire the Gal Viharaya with its four captivating statues of the Buddha, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, and the statue of King Parakramabahu. Admire the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake, the Watadage, and the Galpotha before returning to your hotel.
Overnight in Dambulla on selected board basis.
Day 3
:
DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY (90km – 2 hrs)
Kandy, Sri Lanka
Location: kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Oak Ray Heritage or similar 3*, Earls Regent or similar 4*, Earls Regent or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a spiritual start to the day with a visit to the Golden Temple of Dambulla. Explore this 2,000-year-old sacred pilgrimage site carved deep inside a mountain. This awe-inspiring complex of five caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of metres of painted walls and ceilings and contains more than 150 images of the Lord Buddha as well as a few deities and Sri Lankan kings. Continue to Matale to visit a spice and herb garden. Sri Lankan spices such as turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, and lemongrass are considered among the best in the world. Observe the therapeutic values of spices and processes over a refreshing cup of herbal tea! Proceed to Kandy and visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, an enchanting historical place dating back to the 14th century. Passionate gardeners, the British gave them a structure and introduced a variety of plants and flowers, creating the blooming fields of orchids and fragrant spices you can see today. There’s even a tree planted by King George and Queen Mary in 1901. In the evening, enjoy a dramatic cultural show, which features 12 folk and traditional dances accompanied by ceremonial drums and a drum orchestra. And prepare for a sizzling fire walking performance that will have you on the edge of your seat!
Overnight in Kandy on a selected board basis.
Day 4
:
KANDY – COLOMBO (115km – 2.5 hrs)
Location: Gamini Hall
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*, Ozo Colombo or similar 4*, Cinnamon Grand or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kandy is a fantastic city famous for its beautiful lakeside location, framed by picturesque hills. Visit, after breakfast, the magnificent Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and let its beauty amaze you. This stunning complex, the holiest of all for Sri Lankan Buddhists, was built in the 16th century only to house a relic of one of the Lord Buddha’s canine teeth. The tooth relic is ritually cleansed every week, by monks, and the scented waters they use are considered holy. Other notable landmarks include the Golden Canopy, the New Palace and the Royal Palace, the old courthouse, the Queen’s Bathing House, the National Museum, and the sanctuary. Contemplate in peace the magnificent architecture and experience the tranquillity of the atmosphere. Continue to Colombo for an afternoon tour of the capital. Vibrant, bustling, and colourful Colombo offers a stunning contrast to the rest of the country. Here skyscrapers grow out of historic colonial era districts near the port but this modern metropolis never loses its old world charm. Visit the famous Pettah bazaar, admire the Hindu and Buddhist temples, and explore some of the city’s more affluent residential areas, where you'll find magnificent mansions and stately homes, and the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall. There is some free time for shopping before you are dropped off at your hotel in Colombo.
Overnight in Colombo on selected board basis.
Day 5
:
DEPART COLOMBO
Location: Gamini Hall
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel. Then, check out and continue with your individual travel arrangements.
Breakfast included.
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
Operated with English-speaking driver-guide
ACCOMMODATION:
4 nights' accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1,2 Dambulla:
Standard Hotel Category = Sorowwa Resort & Spa or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Thilanka Hotel or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge 5*
Day 3 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Oak Ray Heritage or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earls Regency or similar 5*
Day 4 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Colombo or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Grand or similar 5*
MEALS:
4 Breakfasts
TRANSPORT:
Shared transport throughout the tour
Inbound transfer from Colombo Airport
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Sigiriya Fortress, Polonnaruwa, Golden Temple of Dambulla, Matale spice and herb garden, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, cultural show in Kandy, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Colombo city tour
OTHER:
Meet and greet on arrival at Colombo airport
What's Not Included
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme.
Departure Airport Transfer
Departure airport transfer.
Gratuities
Gratuities for driver and guide.
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees for all sights and attractions.
Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, etc.
Photography Permits
Video camera and photography permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Optional Tours
Optional tours and activities.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
Day 1: We recommend arriving at Colombo Airport before 10.00 am
Local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1,2 Dambulla:
Standard Hotel Category = Sorowwa Resort & Spa or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Thilanka Hotel or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge 5*
Day 3 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Oak Ray Heritage or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 5*
Day 4 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Ozo Colombo or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Grand or similar 5*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1,2 Dambulla:
Standard Hotel Category = Sorowwa Resort & Spa or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Thilanka Hotel or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge 5*
Day 3 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Oak Ray Heritage or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Earls Regency or similar 5*
Day 4 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Grand Oriental Hotel or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Colombo or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Grand or similar 5*
Check out our Q&As
What kind of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking driver-guide.
What types of accommodation are available during the tour?
Accommodation options include standard, superior, and deluxe hotel categories. For example, in Dambulla, you can stay at Sorowwa Resort & Spa (3*), Thilanka Hotel (4*), or Cinnamon Lodge (5*). In Kandy, options include Oak Ray Heritage (3*), Earls Regent (4*), or Earls Regent (5*). In Colombo, you can choose from Grand Oriental Hotel (3*), Ozo Colombo (4*), or Cinnamon Grand (5*).
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 4 breakfasts.
What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Air-conditioned transportation is provided as stated in the programme, including an inbound airport transfer from Bandaranike International Airport in Colombo.
Is there a meet and greet service at the airport?
Yes, there is a meet and greet service on arrival at Bandaranike International Airport in Colombo.
What are some of the key attractions visited during the tour?
Key attractions include the Sigiriya 'Lion Rock' fortress, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. The tour also includes a visit to Colombo's Pettah bazaar and other landmarks.
Are entrance fees for sights and attractions included in the tour package?
No, entrance fees for all sights and attractions are not included in the tour package.
Is there any free time for shopping during the tour?
Yes, there is some free time for shopping in Colombo before you are dropped off at your hotel.
What should I wear when visiting temples and religious sites?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
What happens if my flight arrives early in the morning?
Clients arriving on early morning flights will have to wait until the last tour participant has arrived.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Reviews of this operator
Ewhite
Myanmar Delights, Private Tour
31-Jan-2022
Excellent guide tour, we choose superior category with a beach extension, we choose privat better to manage properly the time expend in the temples . The guide showed us the real live in markets.. just amazing . Good local restaurants ¡ really good value for money. we booked as well 1 hour bike ride through the temples.. and the ballon ( such a incredible feeling )
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Susana Patricio
Exclusive Tea Tour, Private Tour
23-Jan-2020
It was a fantastic experience, the country, the people, their entire culture. My driver was a charming person, very friendly, fun, always available and very professional. My only complaint is in relation to the hotels, as they are of low quality, taking into account that in my reservation I had made an extra payment for better accommodation, which in fact did not happen. Everything else was incredible and I highly recommend it
...more ...less
Silvia Thoma
The Pick of Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
16-Apr-2020
The itinerary was well designed and it was an unforgettable memory of Sri Lanka. Shall definitely visit again to experience more... Can't Wait...!!
AngelaMakowski's
Review for Sacred Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
17-Apr-2020
Wonderful Tour. Sri Lankan hospitality was amazing and people are super sweet. Thank you so much for everything. The gifts were amazing. Thank you...
Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of
20%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Sacred Sri Lanka - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available
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King Kashyapa built this citadel at the top of this giant boulder known as the ‘Lion Rock’. It used to be the innermost stronghold of a vast fortified city, but in the time it came to be abandoned and forgotten, covered by dense overgrowth until the British found it and began a painstaking archaeological exploration. Today, the remnants of this once thriving city offer a tantalising indication of what once stood here. Climb to the top and enjoy the breathtaking views over the paradisical landscape. In the afternoon, discover the well-preserved ruins of the <b>ancient city of Polonnaruwa.</b> Built about 1,000 years ago, it features a large artificial lake feeding a network of irrigation canals, the remains of a royal palace, and a number of temples and administrative buildings. Admire the<b> Gal Viharaya</b> with its four captivating statues of the Buddha, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, and the statue of King Parakramabahu. Admire the<b> Shiva Temple</b>, the Lankathilake, the Watadage, and the Galpotha before returning to your hotel.</p><p><b>Overnight in Dambulla on selected board basis. </b><br /></p>","lat":"7.874217","lng":"80.651129"},{"title":"Day 3: DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY (90km – 2 hrs)","name":"kandy","description":"<p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\">Enjoy a spiritual start to the day with a visit to the<strong> Golden Temple of Dambulla.</strong> Explore this 2,000-year-old sacred pilgrimage site carved deep inside a mountain. This awe-inspiring complex of five caves is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of metres of painted walls and ceilings and contains more than 150 images of the Lord Buddha as well as a few deities and Sri Lankan kings. Continue to<strong> Matale</strong> to visit a spice and herb garden. Sri Lankan spices such as turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, and lemongrass are considered among the best in the world. Observe the therapeutic values of spices and processes over a refreshing cup of herbal tea! Proceed to <strong>Kandy</strong> and visit the<strong> Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens</strong>, an enchanting historical place dating back to the 14th century. Passionate gardeners, the British gave them a structure and introduced a variety of plants and flowers, creating the blooming fields of orchids and fragrant spices you can see today. There’s even a tree planted by King George and Queen Mary in 1901. In the evening, enjoy a<strong> dramatic cultural show</strong>, which features 12 folk and traditional dances accompanied by ceremonial drums and a drum orchestra. And prepare for a sizzling fire walking performance that will have you on the edge of your seat!</p><p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\"><strong>Overnight in Kandy on a selected board basis. </strong></p>","lat":"7.290572","lng":"80.633726"},{"title":"Day 4: KANDY – COLOMBO (115km – 2.5 hrs)","name":"Gamini Hall","description":"<p>Kandy is a fantastic city famous for its beautiful lakeside location, framed by picturesque hills. Visit, after breakfast, the magnificent <b>Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic </b>and let its beauty amaze you. This stunning complex, the holiest of all for Sri Lankan Buddhists, was built in the 16th century only to house a relic of one of the Lord Buddha’s canine teeth. The tooth relic is ritually cleansed every week, by monks, and the scented waters they use are considered holy. Other notable landmarks include the Golden Canopy, the New Palace and the Royal Palace, the old courthouse, the Queen’s Bathing House, the National Museum, and the sanctuary. Contemplate in peace the magnificent architecture and experience the tranquillity of the atmosphere. Continue to Colombo for an afternoon tour of the capital. <b>Vibrant, bustling, and colourful Colombo</b> offers a stunning contrast to the rest of the country. Here skyscrapers grow out of historic colonial era districts near the port but this modern metropolis never loses its old world charm. Visit the famous <b>Pettah bazaar,</b> admire the Hindu and Buddhist temples, and explore some of the city’s more affluent residential areas, where you'll find magnificent mansions and stately homes, and the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall. There is some free time for shopping before you are dropped off at your hotel in Colombo. </p><p><b>Overnight in Colombo on selected board basis. </b></p>","lat":"6.927079","lng":"79.861243"},{"title":"Day 5: DEPART COLOMBO","name":"Gamini Hall","description":"<p>Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel. Then, check out and continue with your individual travel arrangements. <br /></p><p><b>Breakfast included.</b></p>","lat":"6.927079","lng":"79.861243"}]
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