Sri Lanka Ancient Temple, Wildlife, Hill Country Train

Embark on an exceptional journey to uncover the captivating wonders of Sri Lanka. This island nation offers a rich tapestry of ancient temples, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking hill country train rides that transport visitors to another era. From the awe-inspiring Dambulla Golden Temple, adorned with stunning murals and towering Buddha statues, to the thrilling safaris in Minneriya National Park where elephants roam freely, the experiences await. But the true gem lies in the scenic train journey through the lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls of the hill country, a transcendent encounter that lingers long after the trip has ended. Prepare to be enchanted by the diverse delights that Sri Lanka has to offer.

Good To Know

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a well-preserved ancient palace complex with stunning frescoes.
• Witness diverse wildlife, including elephants and sloth bears, during a safari in Minneriya National Park.
• Experience the rich cultural heritage at the Dambulla Golden Temple, home to over 150 Buddha statues.
• Set out on a scenic train journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country, passing by tea plantations and waterfalls.
• Discover the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya, featuring a variety of tropical flora and the iconic Cannonball Tree.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Duration and Pricing

The tour offers a compact 3-day itinerary, providing travelers with an immersive experience of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural highlights.

Priced from $295 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore the country. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "pay later" option, booking’s hassle-free.

Groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized journey. Pickup’s available from Colombo hotels and addresses.

Speaking Arabic, English, and German, the tour caters to diverse travelers.

Whether you’re seeking historical monuments, wildlife encounters, or scenic train rides, this 3-day adventure packs a punch.

Itinerary Highlights

Over the course of the 3-day journey, travelers will enjoy Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

On the first day, they’ll climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and explore its ancient palaces, gardens, and Buddha statues. They’ll then embark on a wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, where they might spot elephants, bears, and other fascinating creatures.

The second day brings a visit to a spice and herbal garden, the awe-inspiring Dambulla Golden Temple, and the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya.

The final day features a scenic hill country train ride to Nuwara Eliya, where they’ll tour a tea factory and garden and witness the stunning St. Clair’s and Devon waterfalls.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Wildlife

Visitors begin their journey by scaling the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history.

This ancient palace complex, perched atop a 200-meter-high rock, offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Guests can explore the well-preserved ruins, admire the stunning frescoes, and marvel at the sophisticated water gardens.

The tour then ventures into Minneriya National Park, a prime spot for spotting Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.

Travelers may encounter:

1. Majestic elephants roaming the grasslands.
2. Playful sloth bears foraging for food.
3. Vibrant birdlife, including the iconic peacock.

This immersive experience blends Sri Lanka’s natural wonders with its remarkable cultural heritage.

Dambulla Golden Temple and Tooth Relic

From the majestic Sigiriya Rock, the tour ventures deeper into Sri Lanka’s spiritual heartland, stopping at the awe-inspiring Dambulla Golden Temple. Carved into the side of a mountain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 1st century BC and features five caves filled with stunning Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of Buddha. Nearby, the Temple of the Tooth houses Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic – a tooth believed to belong to Buddha himself. Devout pilgrims flock here daily to pay their respects, creating a powerful atmosphere of reverence and devotion.

Cave 1	Cave 2	Cave 3
40 Statues	50 Statues	60 Statues

Cave 4	Cave 5
Stunning Murals	150+ Statues

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Kandyan Cultural Dance and Botanical Garden

After exploring the ancient Buddhist temples, the tour shifts its focus to the vibrant cultural traditions of Sri Lanka.

In Kandy, the group attends a captivating Kandyan cultural dance show. They witness the graceful movements, rhythmic drums, and vibrant costumes of this centuries-old art form.

The tour then visits the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya, a lush oasis featuring:

1. Stunning collections of tropical flora, including rare and endemic species
2. Tranquil walkways and pavilions that offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city
3. The famous Cannonball Tree, known for its unique spherical fruit

These cultural and natural wonders provide a well-rounded understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

Hill Country Train Journey

As the tour heads into the heart of Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country, travelers embark on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The all-inclusive train trip winds through verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and misty mountains, offering a breathtaking panorama of the island’s natural beauty. Along the way, guests can gaze out the window at quaint villages, historic stations, and the lush, rolling landscape.

Must-See Sights	Highlights
St. Clair’s Waterfall	One of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful waterfalls
Devon Falls	A magnificent 97-meter-high waterfall
Tea Plantations	Witness the process of tea production

This unforgettable train journey is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Inclusions and Transportation

The tour package covers a comprehensive suite of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enriching travel experience.

Accommodation in standard hotels with breakfast, hotel pickup and drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation with a driver/guide are all provided.

The tour also includes:

1. An all-inclusive hill country train trip, offering travelers a chance to witness the breathtaking scenery of Sri Lanka’s lush highlands.

2. Guided walking tours at significant sites, such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, providing in-depth exploration of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

3. A thrilling wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, where guests can spot elephants, bears, and other fascinating wildlife.

Important Information and Restrictions

Travelers venturing on this Sri Lanka tour should come prepared with a few essentials. Comfortable shoes and clothing are a must, as the tour involves a considerable amount of walking. While photography is generally permitted, there are certain sites, such as the Sigiriya frescoes and Buddha statues, where it is prohibited. Silence and reverence are expected inside temples, and smoking or alcohol consumption is not allowed. To ensure a seamless and enriching experience, travelers should familiarize themselves with these guidelines.

What to Bring	Restrictions
Passport	No Shorts
Comfortable Shoes	No Photography at Specific Sites
Comfortable Clothes	Silence Required in Temples
	No Smoking or Alcohol Consumption

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes hotel breakfast, and participants are not allowed to consume alcohol or smoke during the tour. All meals and personal expenses are not included in the pricing.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Temples?

There is a dress code for visiting temples in Sri Lanka. Visitors are expected to wear modest, covered clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Shorts and revealing outfits are not allowed out of respect for the sacred sites.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. You can discuss your interests with the tour operator and they’ll work to personalize the itinerary to match your needs and ensure you have an exceptional experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for participants on this tour. Travelers of all ages can enjoy the cultural sightseeing, wildlife safari, and scenic rail journey through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country.

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specifically mention whether Wi-Fi is available during the tour. However, many hotels in Sri Lanka offer complimentary Wi-Fi, so participants may be able to access the internet at their accommodation between activities.

The Sum Up

Sri Lanka’s ancient temples, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring hill country train journeys create an unforgettable travel experience. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich spiritual heritage, witness captivating elephant encounters, and marvel at the lush, verdant landscapes. This captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders makes Sri Lanka a must-visit destination, offering travelers a truly unparalleled adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: