SRI LANKA: ISLE OF SERENDIPITY 6 DAYS
Colombo - anuradhapura - Giritale - Sigiriya - kandy - colombo

Sri Lanka, the natures treasure chest is the home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Sri Lanka’s written history exceeds 2550 years. Its pre-history consist of planned cities, magnificent palaces, and expansive man made reservoirs, stunning temples and monasteries, green gardens, hard to believe monuments and works of art are characteristic of the rich and jubilant lives the celebrated monarchy of Sri Lanka lived. Sri Lanka is one of the most delightful destinations in the world to visit.

itinerary & prices

Day 1: Arrive Colombo
Arrive this evening in Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital city. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to Galle Face hotel.

Day 2: Colombo
Enjoy your sightseeing tour of Colombo including drive through the commercial and city center area known as the "Fort," built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Visit the local markets of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art, the Bandaranayake Memorial and the sacred temple of Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 3: Colombo / Anuradhapura / Giritale
Travel to Sri Lanka's first and oldest capital Anuradhapura. Visit the sacred Sri Mahabodhi Tree, planted over 2,255 years ago and authenticated as the world's oldest tree, the bell shaped pagoda built 1,500 years ago over a relic of Buddha, the Brazen Palace, the Royal Baths and the Aukana Buddha. Later, drive to Giritale and check into Giritale Hotel or similar. (B)

Day 4: Giritale
Today visit Polonnaruwa, which became the medieval capital following the invasion of Anuradhapura. Visit Kings Palace, which once stood 7 stories high and covered 25 acres. Also visit Gal Vihara, with some of the most impressive sculptures in Sri Lanka, including four ornate Buddha statues carved from rock and Lankatilleka Vihare, a grand brick structure. (B)

Day 5: Giritale / Sigiriya / Kandy
Drive to Sigiriya, the 5th-century royal rock citadel modeled on the mythical abode of the God of Wealth. Later, continue through lush countryside on your way to the picturesque hill capital of Kandy. This evening, visit the Temple of the Tooth to witness the elaborate evening prayer ritual carried out to the accompaniment of traditional Kandyan drums. Later, enjoy a colorful rendition of Kandyan dance. Overnight at Amaya Hills Hotel. (B)

Day 6: Kandy Sightseeing / Colombo/ Depart
Today, tour the lovely mountain resort of Kandy, which overlooks a spectacular lake. Your tour includes a scenic drive with views of the lake, a daylight return to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the world's most photographed buildings enshrining the sacred relic of Buddha and the Arts and Crafts Center. Enjoy a stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya. Afternoon return to Colombo airport and use a day room at an airport hotel followed by transfer to the airport for your flight back home. (B)

INCLUSIONS
• Accommodations as listed or similar
• Meals as indicated
• Transfers - arrival & departure
• Sightseeing as indicated with English-speaking local guides
• Entrance fees to monuments and included features

EXCLUSIONS
• Personal expenses, International airfare, Visa fees
• Customary gratitude to your guide and driver