Kandy Heritage Escape

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, you will be welcomed by a representative of Lanka Sportreizen and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. After check-in, take some time to relax. Later, explore Negombo on a city tour visiting a traditional fishing village, the Old Dutch Fortress from 1678 (later converted to a prison), the historic Hamilton Canal built by the Dutch for cinnamon transportation, the Old Dutch Cemetery, and the lively Negombo Fish Market, providing a glimpse of local life and culture.

After breakfast, depart for Kalpitiya. En route, visit the Munneswaram Hindu Temple, a site famous in the Indian epic Ramayana. Continue to Kalpitiya and explore Talawila St. Anne’s Church, the Fisheries Harbour, and a traditional fishing village. Witness the diverse vegetation of the region including agricultural farmlands, salterns, mangroves, and coconut plantations.

After breakfast, depart for Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka dating back to the 5th century BC. Explore the city’s archaeological and historical highlights including Isurumuniya Temple, the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree (over 2,300 years old), Ruwanweliseya Stupa, Jethawanaramaya, Abhayagiriya, Thuparamaya, and the Samadhi Statue. These ancient monuments showcase Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and some have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After breakfast, travel to Passikudah, stopping at Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka (11th century AD). Explore its sacred city, visiting the Quadrangle, Royal Palace, Vatadage, Hatadage, Siva Devalaya, Gal Viharaya, Alahana Pirivena Complex, Lotus and Kumara Ponds, Thuparamaya, Rankoth Vehera, Pabalu Vehera, Thivanka Image House, and the museum. Many of these sites reflect the Hindu influence on Buddhist civilization. Continue to Passikudah for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing day at Passikudah. Spend the day at leisure exploring the pristine beach, soaking up the sun, or enjoying water activities.

After breakfast, depart for Kandy, traveling via the scenic 18 Hair-Pin Bends. En route, visit the Maha Oya Hot Springs, the hottest hot spring in Sri Lanka, with seven wells of varying temperatures. Upon arrival in Kandy, attend a cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dancers, drummers, and a devotional fire-walking ceremony. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

After breakfast, explore Kandy with a city tour including the Upper Lake Drive for panoramic views of the city and a visit to a Gem Museum to witness how precious gems are crafted from raw stones. After the tour, continue your journey back to Negombo for the evening.