Sri Lanka: A 15-day Cross-Country Odyssey

Experience Sri Lanka’s rich heritage on a 15-day adventure through Sigiriya’s ancient rock fortress, Jaffna’s vibrant temples, and Trincomalee’s tropical sea life.

Country
Sri Lanka
Duration
15 days / 14 nights
From
$4,050 /person
Book this trip

Your trip at a glance

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Preview:

Sigirya’s Iconic Rock Fortress and Famous Frescoes

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Overview

Yesterday, you saw the other side of Sigiriya, so it’s only fitting that today fills in the gaps. This morning, you’ll visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress: one of the area’s — nevertheless Sri Lanka’s — most notable and renowned landmarks. You’ll visit the historic rock fortress early to get ahead of both potential heat and the crowds, and embark on an incredible visit, unpacking a site that stretches all the way back to the fifth century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya allows visitors to summit its steps, so you can see the landscapes from above – and the rock from up close. If you so please, you’ll climb the steps to the top of this ancient rock fortress, where you’ll encounter palace ruins. The site also features beautiful gardens and elaborate frescoes that create a marvel of both natural and artistic significance. They date back to the centuries-old palace and capture the styles of historic Sri Lankan art. When you’re done here, you’ll head back to your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Highlights

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Now that you’ve gained context for Sigiriya, it’s time to visit its most beloved landmark. Today, you’ll see Sigiriya Lion Rock: a hulking rock fortress that stretches roughly 200 meters high. While the site speaks for itself, its story is equally compelling. Built by King Kashyapa I centuries ago, the fortress harbors the ruins of the Sinhalese Kingdom and overlaps with a variety of legends, myths, and histories that draw people to its fabled grounds.

Kumbukgaha Villa

You're staying in the same hotel for three nights, which gives you plenty of time to move at a slow pace, enjoying its amenities without sacrificing sightseeing. Take this opportunity to wade in the outdoor pool, stroll through the villa's verdant garden, or keep your terrace door open as you curl up in your plush bed. You're in a prime location to access Sigiriya, so you don't have to stray far from the villa to experience the area's best landscapes and sites.

Accommodations

Kumbukgaha Villa (or similar)

A rustic hideaway in rural Sri Lanka, this hotel is surrounded by wilderness and paddy fields where wild elephants, civet cats, and peacocks roam. The hotel is the perfect base to explore the ancient history and archeological sites of Sri Lanka. Designed with a contemporary Asian style, the villas and open pavilions are a tribute to traditional Sri Lankan architecture. Guests stay in bungalows or villas that provide all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Other facilities at the property include an outdoor swimming pool and a garden.

Location:

Kumbukgaha Villa Audangawa, Kimbissa, Sigiriya 21120, Sri Lanka

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How it works

01

Fill out request form

Provide your ideal trip dates and details to be matched with one of our local planning experts.

02

Meet your expert

Schedule a call with your expert to confirm dates, pricing and any recommended edits to the itinerary.

03

Book your trip

Once your itinerary is set, it’s time to pay the deposit to secure your trip.

04

Take-off

Let the journey begin! Your expert will offer real-time support and concierge service while traveling.

Ready to Go?

Let our local experts plan your dream trip.

What's included

Included in the final price

  • Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
  • 24/7 on-the-ground support
  • On-trip concierge service
  • Personalized trip crafting
  • COVID entry and exit information and assistance
  • Accomodations at all mentioned hotels (or similar)
  • All meals and activities listed in the itinerary
  • An air-conditioned car or minivan, with the services of an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Entrance fees to sites and monuments mentioned in the itinerary
  • Sigiriya cycling tour and boat ride
  • Sigiriya village tour with an expert local guide
  • Jaffna city tour with an expert local guide
  • Jaffna cooking experience
  • Snorkeling excursion in Trincomalee
  • Kandy tuk-tuk tour
  • A village tour in Galle with a cooking demonstration
  • A walking tour in Galle with an expert local guide
  • A half-day safari at Minneriya National Park (approximately three hours)
  • Train tickets from Anuradhapura to Jaffna on reserved seats, pending train availability
  • All applicable taxes at present

Not included in the final price

  • International flights tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Early check-in or late check-out at any of the hotels
  • Visa fees

Ready to see the full itinerary?

Submit a free request to talk with our local experts.

Let's Go
Day 1:
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Day 2:
Hidden Gems of Sigiriya
Day 3:
Sigirya’s Iconic Rock Fortress and Famous Frescoes
Day 4:
The Wonders of Wildlife: A Farm Tour and National Park Safari
Day 5:
The Journey to Jaffna
Day 6:
Treasures of Temples and Taste
Day 7:
Spiritual Grandeur and Natural Wonders of Northern Jaffna
Day 8:
To the East — to the Beach!
Day 9:
Trincomalee Beyond the Beaches
Day 10:
Snorkeling and Searching for Turtles Off Pigeon Island
Day 11:
Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth
Day 12:
Tuk-Tuks, Trees, and the Town of Talpe
Day 13:
Paddy Fields and Authentic Village Life
Day 14:
Beaches — With a Side of Culture
Day 15:
Until the Next Time!