Heritage of Sri Lanka
ANCIENT CITY OF SIGIRIYA
Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, stands as a testament to ancient Sri Lankan ingenuity and artistry. This iconic rock fortress, located in the heart of the island’s Cultural Triangle, boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 5th century AD. Constructed by King Kasyapa, Sigiriya served as both a royal palace and a fortress adorned with exquisite frescoes, gardens, and water features. The highlight of Sigiriya is the dramatic ascent to the summit, where visitors encounter the remnants of the palace complex and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The site’s cultural significance, coupled with its architectural marvels and natural beauty, has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, making Sigiriya a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to uncover the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka.
ANCIENT CITY OF POLANNARUWA
Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. Established in the 11th century AD, Polonnaruwa flourished as a center of power and prosperity under the reign of King Parakramabahu I. The city’s archaeological sites showcase remarkable feats of engineering and architecture, including grand palaces, intricately carved temples, and colossal statues of the Buddha. Notable landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Parakrama Samudra reservoir offer insights into the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Today, Polonnaruwa is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the globe to marvel at its awe-inspiring ruins and immerse themselves in the legacy of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital.
SACRED CITY OF ANURADHAPURA
Anuradhapura, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, holds immense historical and cultural significance in Sri Lanka. Founded in the 4th century BC, it served as the island’s first capital and a prominent center of Buddhism. The city is renowned for its magnificent stupas, monasteries, and ancient ruins, which stand as a testament to its illustrious past. The Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to be a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, is a revered symbol of Anuradhapura’s spiritual heritage. Other iconic landmarks include the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa and the Abhayagiri Monastery, which once housed thousands of monks. Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike to experience its profound cultural legacy and timeless spirituality
RANGIRI DAMBULLA CAVE OF TEMPLE
The Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Carved into the towering rock face of a massive granite outcrop, this ancient temple complex dates back over two millennia, with its origins tracing to the reign of King Valagamba in the 1st century BC. The temple is renowned for its five cavernous chambers adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 stunningly preserved Buddha statues, including a towering 14-meter-long reclining Buddha. These magnificent cave paintings and sculptures depict various scenes from the life of the Buddha and serve as a vivid testament to the island’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple continues to be a revered pilgrimage site and a captivating cultural landmark, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its spiritual and artistic splendor.
SACRED CITY OF KANDY
The Sacred City of Kandy, nestled amidst the scenic hills of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, holds a special place in the island’s cultural heritage. Established in the 15th century, Kandy served as the last capital of the Sinhalese kings, preserving a rich legacy of Buddhism and traditional arts. At the heart of the city lies the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Buddhism’s holiest shrines. Housing the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, the temple is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s enduring faith and spiritual significance. Kandy’s cultural heritage extends beyond its religious sites to include vibrant festivals, such as the Esala Perahera, a spectacular procession featuring ornately decorated elephants, drummers, dancers, and fire performers. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural splendor, the Sacred City of Kandy continues to enchant visitors with its timeless allure and rich heritage.
OLD TOWN OF GALLE & ITS FORTIFICATIONS
The Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications stand as a testament to Sri Lanka’s colonial past and architectural heritage. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fortified city of Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that retains its historic charm and cultural significance. Enclosed within sturdy ramparts, the old town features cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. The iconic Galle Fort, with its towering ramparts and bastions overlooking the Indian Ocean, offers panoramic views and serves as a reminder of the city’s strategic importance in maritime trade. Inside the fort, visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Dutch Reformed Church, the Galle Maritime Museum, and the iconic Galle Lighthouse. With its blend of European colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and scenic coastal vistas, the Old Town of Galle continues to captivate visitors with its timeless allure and historical significance.
SINHARAJA FOREST RESERVE
The Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a pristine tropical rainforest nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s southwest lowland region. Covering an area of approximately 11,187 hectares, Sinharaja is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rich flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the island. The forest’s dense canopy shelters a remarkable array of plant species, including rare orchids, towering hardwoods, and exotic medicinal plants. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elusive mammals such as the purple-faced langur and the Sri Lankan leopard, as well as numerous bird species, reptiles, and insects. Sinharaja’s ecological importance extends beyond its biological diversity, serving as a vital watershed for several major rivers and providing essential ecosystem services to local communities. As one of the last remaining primary rainforests in Sri Lanka, Sinharaja Forest Reserve stands as a living heritage, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature and witness the conservation efforts aimed at preserving this invaluable natural treasure for future generations.
Adventure Tour (4 Trips)
Family Tour (4 Trips)
Cultural Tour (3 Trips)
East Coast Season (3 Trips)