Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich tapestry of history and culture with our curated experiences that take you on a journey through time. Wander through the colonial heritage of Colombo, where every corner tells a story, from the bustling bazaars of Pettah to the serene Independence Square. Discover ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where stupas and ruins echo the grandeur of a bygone era. Climb sacred mountains and explore ancient cave temples that have witnessed centuries of devotion and spirituality. Each step you take unveils layers of Sri Lanka’s multifaceted past, offering a deep connection to the island’s unique blend of traditions, religions, and architectural wonders.
Take a leisurely walk through the city’s commercial heritage, reflecting back to the practices of the Portuguese, Dutch and English, giving its citizens a unique accent, a distinctive swagger, and a unique palette. The main focus, a myriad of buildings from 17th century (erected during Dutch & British rule) to the present. The post-conflict growth & development of the modern era is evident in the new High-Rise structures dotting the city’s skyline.
Explore the Pilikuththuwa Cave temple on a Forest Tour in Gampaha. This 200 acre Archeological site has over a hundred natural caves, plus many natural ponds, tunnels, heritage buildings and mural paintings of great archaeological value. It’s the largest cave complex in the western part of Sri Lanka. Prathini, an expert on heritage & culture, will take you through the evolution of Sri Lankan Buddhist Culture and it monastic architectural nuances based on cave complexes. Feel the serenity of the forest as you explore the ancient monastic cave complex to the symphony of bird calls around you.
Join your guide Rashika on a journey through Colombo, unravelling stories of the city’s entrepreneurial zeal through culturally diverse markets. Witness murals portraying its multicultural heritage and visit artisans preserving traditional craft. Hear the serene call to prayer of the Mosque, and stop at the Murugan Kovil, Buddhist Temple, and Church to see the varied faiths coexisting in harmony. Savour the mouth-watering street food and explore Slave Island & the Fort Railway Station. Experience the bustling Pettah Bazaar & Colombo Fort Gold Market. Visit the historic Clock Tower and Lighthouse, and finish off by relaxing at Port City.
The ancient city of Anuradhapura is the first capital of Sri Lanka (4 BC-11 AD). A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Stupas rising tall above the trees, and monuments doting the landscape. Visit places of veneration, gigantic Stupas and the sacred Bo tree of the Buddhists. Stroll past the ruins of ancient palaces, administrative buildings, hospitals and ancient bathing tanks and some of the most complex irrigation systems of the ancient world. The evening tour allows relief from the hot sun and creates a tranquil setting, allowing for deeper appreciation of these historic marvels.
Explore Thiriyaya, a small village north of Trincomalee, home to the Girihandu Seya temple claimed to have been built by the merchant brothers Thapassu and Bhalluka, housing bodily relics of the Gautama Buddha. Experience the beauty of a Vatadage, an ancient stone structure, built around the stupa using granite pillars. Being atop a hill, the temple offers beautiful vistas of the verdant valley below.
Explore the rich history & culture of Batticaloa. Venture into the cultural & religious diversity of the local communities by visiting places of worship belonging to four different faiths, and gain insightful knowledge of Dutch, Portuguese and British architecture. Meet a local family and be hosted to Lunch and relish the taste of traditional Batticaloa food. Afterwards, get a glimpse of the scars of the recent conflict and tsunami, and visit the Heritage Museum of Kattankudy.
Take a guided walk-through Galle’s historic 17th Century Dutch Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the narrow cobblestone paths lined with colonial period buildings still in use, and old merchant houses where generations of Moorish families live to his day. Walk along the ramparts for a great view out to sea and later visit colonial era churches, the lighthouse and museums. Stop for a cup of refreshing Ceylon Tea or fresh king coconut. A memorable glimpse into life within Galle Fort – one of the best-preserved Colonial Fort’s in Asia.
The ancient Citadel & City of Dambadeniya (13thCen), Sri Lanka’s third capital after Polonnaruwa. Only four kings reigned here. The most famous being Parakramabahu the 2nd, a great poet and writer. Explore the ruins of the fortress and palace complex. Experience the legendary ancient temple of the Tooth Relic, the second best-preserved after Kandy. A glimpse of ancient history steeped in culture and shrouded in mystery.
Discover ancient hidden temples in the hills exhibiting masterpieces of Sri Lankan Architecture & Sculpture. Built on a little hilltop, the 14th Century Temple of Gadaladeniya offers beautiful views of the landscape around it. Composed of one large Stupa encompassed by four small Stupas, some structures feature aspects of South Indian architecture. The Lankatilaka Temple also 14th Century, is built atop a natural rock and features outstanding architecture, embellished with magnificent works of sculpture. The intricate carved pillars of the Drummers’ Hall in Embekke are sure to etch a lasting memory, a Masterpiece of Sri Lankan Arts & Architecture.
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