Heritage Tour: Central to North in 7 Days

Anuradhapura, a train ride to Jaffna and the rock of Sigiriya, finishing in Colombo.

Description

For years the north was off the tourist map. Today it is one of the most rewarding regions to visit. This week combines the ancient capital of Anuradhapura, Tamil villages and Hindu kovils in Jaffna, and the highlights of the Cultural Triangle. A three-hour train ride from Anuradhapura to Jaffna is a highlight in itself.

Your route

Anuradhapura
Jaffna
Sigiriya
Colombo

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival and transfer to Anuradhapura

Your English-speaking chauffeur drives you from the airport to Anuradhapura. Relax by the pool or in your room.

Overnight: Anuradhapura

Day 2

Anuradhapura ancient city

Explore Sri Lanka's first capital and its archaeological sites, including Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, Isurumuniya, Kuttam Pokuna and the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.

Anuradhapura Ancient CityRuwanwelisayaJetavanaramayaIsurumuniya ViharaKuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Overnight: Anuradhapura

Day 3

Train to Jaffna

Take the three-hour train from Anuradhapura to Jaffna. Your guide meets you at the station and takes you to your hotel.

Anuradhapura to Jaffna Train Ride

Overnight: Jaffna

Day 4

Jaffna and on to Sigiriya

Visit Nallur Kovil, Jaffna Fort and the archaeological museum, then drive to Sigiriya in the evening.

Nallur KovilJaffna FortJaffna Archaeological Museum

Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 5

Sigiriya, Pidurangala and Minneriya

Climb Sigiriya Rock for a bird's-eye view of the plains, then continue to Pidurangala and Minneriya National Park.

Sigiriya Rock FortressPidurangala RockMinneriya National Park Safari

Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 6

Sigiriya to Colombo

Transfer to Colombo and explore the city.

Colombo City Tour

Overnight: Colombo

Day 7

Departure

Your guide takes you to the airport.

Inclusions

Accommodation in hotels as listed, with daily breakfast
Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Welcome drink, local SIM card and welcome pack
Free drinking water in the vehicle
Entry ticket: Anuradhapura Ancient City
Entry ticket: Anuradhapura to Jaffna Train Ride
Entry ticket: Dambulla Cave Temple
Entry ticket: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Entry ticket: Pidurangala Rock
Entry ticket: Minneriya National Park Safari

Exclusions

Lunch
Dinner
Personal expenses, tips and travel insurance

Optional activities

Sigiriya Village Tour