Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka with our “Time Out in Sri Lanka” 9-day tour. Begin your adventure in the bustling city of Colombo before heading south to explore the historic city of Galle and the sacred town of Kataragama. Continue to the serene beaches of Arugambay, and delve into the natural beauty of Kumana. Experience the cultural richness of Batticaloa and the pristine shores of Passikudah. Journey through the ancient ruins of Thiriyaya and Trincomalee, culminating in the tranquil coastal haven of Nilaveli. Explore the historical marvels of Anuradhapura before concluding your trip on the picturesque East Coast. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and relaxation, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience in Sri Lanka.
When you arrive at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and check into the hotel. Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital, has evolved into a multifaceted metropolis over the years. Despite its modernization, the city still retains the colonial past. You'll visit a century-old bell tower, charming colonial buildings, the Pettah Bazaar, as well as Hindu and Buddhist temples. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
After breakfast, set off for Galle and explore this city tour of galle. Known as the "Pearl of the Southwest Coast," Galle's old town is encircled by a fort built by the Dutch over 350 years ago. Walk along the impressive fortress walls and take in stunning views of the city and the sea. The town's picturesque architecture, cozy cafes, and churches create a unique atmosphere. From Galle, continue your journey to Kataragama, one of Sri Lanka's most significant pilgrimage sites, located in the forest near Yala National Park. This sacred site is revered by three major religions: Buddhists flock to the Dagaba, Hindus visit the Kataragama Deval Temple, and Muslims have their own mosque within the temple district.
Travel to the east coast to Arugam Bay, a picturesque bathing and fishing town known for its fine sandy beaches, coconut palms, and world-class surfing waves. The surrounding forests are home to freely roaming elephants and monkeys. In the afternoon, embark on a two-hour canoe tour through the Pottuvil lagoon, paddling through enchanting mangrove forests.
Before sunrise, embark on a jeep safari at Kumana National Park, for bird watchers with over 430 species of birds to discover. This park is also home to a variety of mammals and reptiles. And easy to watch elephants, wild boars, golden jackals, black turtles, crocodiles, or even leopards. In the afternoon, visit the stunning sand dunes of "Panama" and unwind on the serene beach.
As you journey towards Passekudah, make a captivating stop in Batticaloa, the second largest city on the east coast. It sits gracefully on a headland and an island within its expansive 54 km long lagoon. Batticaloa captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, serene harbors, and rich historical sites. Offshore, you might encounter the intriguing "singing fish," a unique species known for producing melodic sounds underwater.Continue your adventure to Passekudah, where you'll find one of the world's shallowest coastlines, where the sea remains just centimeters deep for kilometers. This beach is perfect for endless strolls and offers a surreal underwater world to explore through snorkeling adventures.
Next we head to Thiriyaya, a Tamil village renowned for its historical significance. Here, you'll delve into the ancient ruins of Girihanduseya Temple, believed to be Sri Lanka's oldest Buddhist temple. Â Next, your journey continues to Trincomalee, one of the world's largest and most natural harbors. Throughout history, this harbor has had colonial ambitions due to its strategic importance. Explore the Koneswaram Temple, standing for over 2500 years as one of Sri Lanka's five sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva.
Today, Explore yourself in ancient Anuradhapura, one of the UNESCO cultural Heritage of Sri Lanka where the impermanence of existence becomes apparent. For over a millennium, Anuradhapura stood as Sri Lanka's formidable capital until its decline after a devastating 993 AD invasion. Explore Jetavana Stupa, towering at 120 meters, once the world's third-largest structure in 300 BC. Wander through a sprawling 40 square kilometer field of enchanting ruins, remnants of the city's glorious past.
Make your way to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to catch your flight home, already anticipating your next adventure in Sri Lanka with Soul Ceylon Travels.Â
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