Historical Sri Lanka 5 Days Tour

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating past with this meticulously curated 5-day historical tour. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where the island’s cultural heritage comes alive. Scale the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress and uncover the secrets of the Dambulla Cave Temple, both UNESCO-listed wonders. Experience the sacred rituals at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and witness the gentle giants of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich history and stunning landscapes, leaving you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the island’s remarkable past.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Historical Tours In Dambulla.

Good To Know

• This 5-day tour explores Sri Lanka’s ancient ruins, rock fortresses, and cultural treasures, including Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy.
• The tour is priced at $732 per person and offers payment flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
• The tour is suitable for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with a comprehensive itinerary showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
• Participants should be aware of health restrictions and travel essentials, such as comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and travel insurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Historical Sri Lanka 5-day tour offers an immersive journey through the island nation’s captivating past.

Priced at $732 per person, this tour allows you to explore the ancient ruins, rock fortresses, and cultural treasures of Sri Lanka without the need for an upfront payment.

The best part? You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the added flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this 5-day itinerary promises an enriching exploration of Sri Lanka’s remarkable heritage, from the first capital of Anuradhapura to the sacred relics of Kandy.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors embarking on the Historical Sri Lanka 5-day tour will be immersed in a captivating journey through the island nation’s remarkable past.

The first day takes you to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital, where you’ll explore the ruins and the sacred Mihintale. Next, you’ll ascend Sigiriya, a 5th-century rock fortress, and visit Polonnaruwa, the second capital.

On day three, you’ll discover the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple and the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

The final day includes a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the historic Kelaniya Temple Complex before transferring to Colombo.

This comprehensive itinerary immerses travelers in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival and Anuradhapura

Arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport, travelers embark on their captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history.

They’re whisked away to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the first capital of the island nation. Wandering through the ruins, they marvel at the well-preserved sites, including the spectacular Mihintale, considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

The grand dagobas, or dome-shaped shrines, and the iconic Samadhi Buddha statue inspire awe.

As the sun sets, the group settles in Dambulla, ready to explore more of Sri Lanka’s cultural wonders the next day.

Day 2: Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa

Bidding farewell to the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, the group sets their sights on the renowned Sigiriya, a 180-meter rock fortress that stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history.

Ascending the iconic rock, visitors are treated to breathtaking views and the remnants of a once-thriving civilization.

After exploring this remarkable site, the tour continues to Polonnaruwa, the country’s second capital.

Here, guests marvel at the impressive ruins, including the Gal Vihara, a series of Buddha statues carved directly into the rock.

From ancient palaces to intricate temples, this day offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s captivating past, leaving the group in awe of the island’s enduring cultural heritage.

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Day 3: Dambulla and Kandy

The tour now ventures to Dambulla, home to the remarkable Cave Temple complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains over 150 images of Buddha, along with intricate murals depicting his life and teachings.

Visitors are awestruck by the five main caves, each adorned with stunning paintings and statues that have been preserved for centuries.

After exploring this cultural gem, the group transfers to the historic city of Kandy. Here, they visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, which is believed to house a relic of Buddha’s tooth.

Wandering the serene grounds, they gain insight into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. As the day draws to a close, the group settles in for a tranquil overnight stay in Kandy.

Day 4: Pinnawala and Colombo

After their tranquil stay in Kandy, the group departs for the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they witness the remarkable rehabilitation and care of Sri Lanka’s gentle giants.

Watching the elephants bathe in the river and interact with their caretakers is a truly captivating experience.

Next, the tour continues to the Kelaniya Temple Complex, a sacred Buddhist site featuring exquisite murals and architecture.

As the day draws to a close, the group transfers to Colombo, the vibrant commercial capital, to explore its bustling streets, colonial-era landmarks, and diverse cultural offerings, capping off an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and natural wonders.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This curated tour includes a wealth of amenities to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. From accommodation in charming tourist-class hotels with half-board meals to air-conditioned vehicle transfers, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and stress-free journey. The tour also includes the services of a licensed guide, entrance fees to all the iconic sites, and a visit to a captivating Spice Garden and the serene Kelaniya Temple. Plus, you’ll receive refreshing mineral water throughout the day. While the tour covers these essentials, you’ll need to budget for any additional meals, personal expenses, tips, and the mandatory gala dinner payments on special occasions.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Accommodation in tourist-class hotels (half-board)	Additional meals
Air-conditioned vehicle transfers	Personal expenses
Licensed guide	Tips
Entrance fees	Visa for Sri Lanka
Visits to Spice Garden and Kelaniya Temple	Mandatory gala dinner payments on December 24 and 31
Mineral water (1 liter per day per person)
Local taxes

Participant Restrictions and Travel Essentials

Not everyone may be able to fully enjoy this historical tour of Sri Lanka. Those with certain health conditions, such as heart problems, epilepsy, or severe weight restrictions, may find some activities challenging. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year and individuals over 95 years.

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, travelers should pack essentials like:

1. Passport, comfortable shoes, and lightweight, breathable clothing to withstand the tropical climate.
2. Travel insurance and personal medication in case of emergencies.
3. Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun’s rays.

The tour also has restrictions on oversize luggage, drones, smoking, and military-style attire, so participants should review the guidelines carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Beyond 5 Days?

Absolutely! The tour can be extended beyond 5 days to accommodate your travel plans. Simply inquire with the tour operator about adding extra days to explore more of Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural attractions.

What Mode of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour’s transportation is an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfortable and convenient travel between the tour’s destinations. Guests will enjoy the scenic Sri Lankan landscapes in the safety and comfort of their private vehicle.

Is There an Option to Add More Sites to the Itinerary?

The tour offers a set itinerary, but travelers can customize it by adding more sites to explore Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. Speak with the tour provider to personalize the experience and make the most of your time in the country.

Do I Need to Arrange My Own Travel Insurance?

The tour includes travel insurance, though travelers may wish to purchase additional coverage for their own peace of mind. The policy provided covers the essentials, but supplemental insurance can offer more comprehensive protection during the journey.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Menu?

According to the itinerary, the tour provides mineral water and does not exclude additional meals. Guests can request vegetarian or special dietary menus upon booking and the guide will happily accommodate any dietary needs.

The Sum Up

This captivating 5-day Historical Sri Lanka Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to uncover the island’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. From the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress and the sacred Temple of the Tooth, this meticulously curated itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating past, catering to both history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: