From Colombo: 5-Day Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry with this 5-day tour from Colombo. Enjoy the grandeur of iconic sites like the National Museum, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Savor delectable local cuisine and relax in the comfort of 4-star accommodations, all while enjoying the convenience of a professional chauffeur guide. With flexible booking options and a wealth of included amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s renowned heritage. Discover the wonders that await as you explore the heart of this enchanting island nation.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Dambulla.

Good To Know

• This 5-day Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour from Colombo offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s rich heritage and landmarks.
• The tour includes visits to the National Museum, Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
• Accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry tickets to all major attractions are included in the $590 per person package.
• The tour features a professional English-speaking chauffeur guide and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Moderate walking is required, and the tour may not be suitable for individuals with severe mobility issues or accessibility needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This immersive 5-day Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the island nation’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Starting at just $590 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a convenient "reserve now, pay later" option.

Visitors will discover Colombo’s National Museum and Independence Memorial Hall, marvel at the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and uncover the grandeur of Polonnaruwa’s UNESCO-listed ruins.

The package also features 4-star accommodations, breakfast and dinner, and complimentary amenities like bottled water and a local SIM card.

With an English-speaking guide and wheelchair accessibility for select activities, this tour provides an unforgettable cultural journey through Sri Lanka.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, visitors arrive in Colombo and explore the city’s National Museum, home to an impressive collection of Sri Lankan artifacts and artwork. They also visit the Independence Memorial Hall, a monument commemorating the country’s independence. The next day, they travel to Sigiriya and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, with its ornate murals and statues. Climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, they enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. In Polonnaruwa, an ancient capital, they wander through the remarkably well-preserved ruins. Later, they visit Kandy’s Royal Botanical Gardens and the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Destination	Highlights
Colombo	National Museum, Independence Memorial Hall
Sigiriya	Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Polonnaruwa	Ancient city ruins
Kandy	Royal Botanical Gardens, Temple of the Tooth Relic

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour offers a range of inclusions and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience.

Travelers will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking chauffeur guide who’ll provide invaluable insights throughout the journey. Guests will stay in 4-star accommodations and enjoy daily breakfast and dinner.

All parking and highway tolls are covered, ensuring a seamless experience. Bottled water and a free SIM card are also provided for convenience.

Entry tickets to the tour’s highlighted attractions, such as the Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, are included.

While the tour involves moderate walking, it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Important Information

Certain aspects of the Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour may not suit individuals with mobility impairments. While the tour give you an immersive cultural experience, some sites and activities may involve moderate walking or uneven terrain. To ensure a comfortable journey, it’s recommended that participants wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen. A 3×3 table below outlines further important information to consider:

Mobility Considerations	Walking Requirements	Recommended Attire
Not suitable for those with severe mobility issues	Moderate walking involved at some sites	Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
Some wheelchair accessibility available	Be prepared to navigate uneven surfaces	Hat and sunscreen advised
Tour pace may be challenging for some	Guests should pack accordingly	Stay hydrated throughout the tour

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Transportation and Accessibility

Pickup and drop-off locations for the Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour are provided at Bandaranaike International Airport and various points in Colombo.

The tour offers wheelchair accessibility for some parts, allowing guests with mobility impairments to participate.

Travelers should come prepared with:

1. Comfortable walking shoes to navigate the historical sites and nature reserves.
2. A hat and sunscreen to protect against the tropical sun.
3. Flexibility, as moderate walking is involved throughout the tour.
4. An open mind to fully experience the cultural richness of Sri Lanka.

This well-rounded tour is designed to provide an accessible and immersive journey through the island’s captivating highlights.

Arrival in Colombo

Upon arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport, guests embark on their Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour.

They’re greeted by their friendly, English-speaking chauffeur guide, who assists with luggage and leads them to a comfortable vehicle. The drive to their Colombo hotel takes about an hour, providing an initial glimpse of the vibrant city.

Once checked in, guests have time to freshen up before their first exciting activity – exploring the National Museum and Independence Memorial Hall.

These landmarks offer a captivating introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and history.

With the tour now underway, travelers eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead in the days to come.

Exploring Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The next stop on the Sri Lanka Cultural Highlights Tour is the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Towering 200 meters above the surrounding landscape, this ancient rock citadel dates back to the 5th century.

Visitors can ascend the steep staircases, passing by the famous frescoes that adorn the rock’s western face. At the summit, they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the lush, tropical surroundings.

The highlights include:

1. Exploring the ancient fortifications and the remnants of the royal palace.
2. Admiring the stunning mirror wall, once polished to a high sheen.
3. Climbing the final set of steps, known as the "Lion’s Staircase".
4. Soaking in the serene atmosphere and the sense of history that permeates the site.

Visiting Polonnaruwa and Kandy

From Sigiriya, the tour proceeds to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital.

Guests explore the well-preserved ruins, marveling at the colossal statues, ornate stone carvings, and majestic palaces that once housed Sri Lankan royalty.

Next, the tour visits the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, renowned for their stunning collection of tropical flora, including rare and endemic species.

The final destination is Kandy, the cultural heart of the island, where travelers visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site that houses a revered tooth of the Buddha.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alcohol Permitted During the Tour?

Alcohol is not included as part of this tour. The focus is on exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural highlights, so the tour itinerary does not feature alcohol consumption. Guests are recommended to enjoy the local cuisine and attractions during their stay.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour operator offers the flexibility to customize the itinerary to fit the traveler’s preferences. They’ll work with you to adjust the activities, accommodations, and pacing to ensure an enjoyable and personalized experience.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour typically has a small group size, usually between 6 to 12 participants, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience. This ensures comfortable transportation and allows the guide to provide ample attention to each traveler’s needs.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Solo Travelers?

The tour doesn’t charge additional fees for solo travelers. All travelers, regardless of group size, pay the standard starting rate of $590 per person. Solo travelers enjoy the same inclusions and amenities as those in larger groups.

Can I Extend My Stay in Sri Lanka After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Sri Lanka after the 5-day cultural highlights tour. The tour operator can provide assistance with booking additional accommodations and activities to suit your interests and schedule.

The Sum Up

This 5-day cultural tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. Visitors will marvel at the breathtaking Sigiriya Rock Fortress, discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and experience the cultural heart of Kandy. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a professional guide, this tour provides a seamless and memorable journey through the island’s captivating history and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: