Tales of Ancient Ceylon from Hikkaduwa (2 Days)

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Hikkaduwa > Dambulla > Minneriya
3 stops
1
Hikkaduwa
Start your journey at 0600 hrs from your hotel in Hikkaduwa. You will be met by a designated chauffer guide from Lakpura Travels. After the formalities at the hotel you will be escorted to your air conditioned vehicle and proceed to Dambulla and visit Cave Temple.
Admission ticket free
2
Golden Temple of Dambulla
Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
3
Minneriya National Park
This safari takes you on a ride through the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October. In addition to elephants, get a chance to also see many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in the scrublands, forests and other areas.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Sigiriya > Polonnaruwa > Hikkaduwa
8 stops
4
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress
After breakfast at the hotel check out and visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress. the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
5
Polonnaruwa
Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the second major capital of Sri Lanka. Walk through the ruins of the city that flourished between the 10th to the 13th century AD.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
6
Gal Vihara
Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is a marvel of ancient Buddhist sculpture. Carved from a single granite rock face, this sacred site features four colossal statues of Lord Buddha, each depicting different aspects of his enlightenment. The largest standing Buddha statue reaches a height of over 7 meters. These remarkable sculptures, dating back to the 12th century, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Sinhalese artisans and are revered as a masterpiece of Sri Lankan Buddhist art and architecture.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Polonnaruwa Vatadage
The Polonnaruwa Vatadage in Sri Lanka is a circular relic shrine, showcasing exquisite architectural craftsmanship from the ancient Sinhalese civilization. Built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (12th century AD), it served as a protective enclosure for the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Adorned with intricate stone carvings and surrounded by stone pillars, it stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and religious significance.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
Lotus Pond
Nestled in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, the Lotus Pond stands as a serene testament to the island's rich history. Carved out of stone centuries ago, this tranquil reservoir reflects the surrounding lush greenery and the remnants of royal splendor. Adorned with blooming lotus flowers, it whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
9
Lankatilaka Temple, nestled in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, stands as a majestic testament to the island's rich heritage. This ancient shrine, built in the 12th century, showcases exquisite Sinhalese architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and towering columns. Dedicated to Lord Buddha, its serene atmosphere invites contemplation amidst its historical splendor, making it a revered site for both locals and visitors seeking spiritual solace and cultural appreciation.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
10
The Polonnaruwa Statue of King Parakramabahu in Sri Lanka stands as a majestic testament to the island's rich history. Carved from a single granite block, this imposing 12th-century sculpture depicts King Parakramabahu the Great in regal attire, exuding power and authority. The statue, measuring over 12 feet in height, reflects the grandeur and splendor of the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, serving as a remarkable symbol of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and royal legacy.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
11
Hikkaduwa
On completion start your journey back to your hotel in Hikkaduwa.
7 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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