5 Days 4 Nights - Exploration Journey

Day 1: Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa:

• Description: Explore the ancient city, which served as Sri Lanka’s capital from the 11th to 13th centuries. Known for its well-preserved ruins and historical significance.

Highlights:

• Royal Palace: Explore the remains of the grand royal residence.
• Gal Vihara: Admire the impressive rock-cut Buddha statues.
• Archaeological Museum: View artifacts from Sri Lanka’s ancient history.
• Parakrama Samudra: Enjoy a sunset by this massive ancient reservoir.

Additional Visits:

• Lankatilaka Vihara: Visit this large, ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical importance.
• Rankoth Vehera: Explore this large stupa, one of the most important monuments in Polonnaruwa.

Activities:

1. Check into a luxury hotel and enjoy the amenities.
2. Tour the ancient city, including the Royal Palace, Quadrangle, and Gal Vihara.
3. Visit the Archaeological Museum.
4. Sunset at Parakrama Samudra.
5. Optionally visit Lankatilaka Vihara and Rankoth Vehera.

Day 2: Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress:

• Description: Climb the iconic rock fortress, known for its frescoes, the Lion’s Paw entrance, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights:

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Explore the ancient ruins and climb to the summit.
• Pidurangala Rock: Offers a challenging hike and alternative panoramic views.

Additional Visits:

• Sigiriya Village Tour: Experience local village life with traditional activities.
• Habarana Lake: Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the lake.

Activities:

1. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and explore the frescoes.
2. Optionally hike Pidurangala Rock.
3. Visit a local village or Habarana Lake.

Day 3: Kandy

Kandy:

• Description: Visit the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, known for its sacred temple and vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Temple of the Tooth Relic: Explore the sacred shrine and its rich history.
• Kandy Lake: Enjoy a serene stroll around the lake.
• Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: Explore this expansive garden with diverse plant species.

Additional Visits:

• Kandy View Point: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
• Cultural Arts Center: Visit this center for traditional crafts and performances.

Activities:

1. Travel to Kandy.
2. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
3. Stroll around Kandy Lake.
4. Optionally visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and Kandy View Point.
5. Attend a traditional cultural show.

Day 4: Ella

Ella:

• Description: Discover this charming hill town known for its stunning natural beauty and cool climate.

Highlights:

• Ella Rock: Hike to this peak for spectacular views.
• Little Adam’s Peak: Enjoy a relatively easy hike with rewarding views.
• Nine Arch Bridge: Visit this picturesque railway bridge.

Additional Visits:

• Ravana Falls: Explore this beautiful waterfall, located near Ella.
• Ella Spice Garden: Learn about local spices and their cultivation.

Activities:

1. Travel to Ella.
2. Hike to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak.
3. Visit the Nine Arch Bridge.
4. Optionally visit Ravana Falls and Ella Spice Garden.

Day 5: Yala National Park

Yala National Park:

• Description: Experience one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife parks, known for its leopards and diverse fauna.

Highlights:

• Wildlife Safari: Enjoy a thrilling safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.

Additional Visits:

• Ruhuna National Park: Explore additional areas within the Yala complex for more wildlife sightings.

Activities:

1. Enjoy a full-day wildlife safari in Yala National Park.
2. Optionally explore Ruhuna National Park.