Tales of Ancient Ceylon from Hikkaduwa (2 Days)

Tales of Ancient Ceylon from Hikkaduwa (2 Days)

Tales of Ancient Ceylon is a short, single night, 2-day tour into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites beginning from the historical Dambulla Golden Cave Temple complex that once served as both an ancient kingdom as well as monastery for Buddhist monks and pilgrims. This site dates back to the 1st Century BC and has a mesmerizing story to tell. Climb the Sigiriya ‘Lion Rock’ Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortification of stone was home to King Kasyapa during the 5th Century AD. The ruined city of Polonnaruwa is the next site on the list and has a history dating back as far as the 10th Century AD. It is considered one of Sri Lanka’s prime examples of ancient culture and heritage. You will also go on a Wildlife Safari in Minneriya National Park.

SKU: LK10011200

Itinerary

Day 1: Hikkaduwa > Dambulla > Minneriya

Pass By: Lakpura LLC, Colombo Sri Lanka
Lakpura LLC

Stop At: Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, Kandy - Jaffna Highway, Dambulla 21100 Sri Lanka
Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Minneriya National Park, Maradankadawala-Habarana-Thirukkondaiadimadu Highway, 50150 Sri Lanka
This safari takes you on a ride through the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October. In addition to elephants, get a chance to also see many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in the scrublands, forests and other areas
Duration: 3 hours

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at 3 star Hotel in Sigiriya

Day 2: Sigiriya > Polonnaruwa > Bentota

Stop At: Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress, Sigiriya 21120 Sri Lanka
Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka
Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the second major capital of Sri Lanka. Walk through the ruins of the city that flourished between the 10th to the 13th century AD. View important monuments such as Gal Vihara, Vatadage, the lotus bath, Lankathilaka Temple and the statue of King Parakramabahu whose reign was considered the golden age of Polonnaruwa. Get to know more about Sri Lanka's ancient history.
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast: At your Hotel
No accommodation included on this day.