Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle + Sri Lanka Beach (7 nights) staying at The Surf Hotel, Bentota

Your Itinerary

DAY 1: Depart UK.

DAY 2: Arrive Colombo - Sigiriya.

On arrival in Colombo you will be met by our representative and transferred to Sigiriya. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the town, founded around the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (or Lion Rock). (D)

DAY 3: Sigiriya - Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Sigiriya.

After breakfast, a short journey through lush Sri Lankan countryside takes you to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city is considered sacred to the Buddhist world and is surrounded by monasteries. Your city tour takes in the well-preserved ruins of this area and the Sri Maha Bodhi (or Bo Tree), the oldest tree in the world with a recorded planting date. This remarkable tree was a sapling taken from the Jaya Siri Maha Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. Later visit the pilgrimage site of Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya.

This morning visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a giant magma plug which has served both as a long-standing Buddhist monastery and a fortress. Surrounded by a network of gardens and moats, it is an historical, geological and anthropological landmark. The ancient ruins of the upper palace built by King Kasyapa can also be found on the summit, which at 656 feet above sea level affords magnificent views of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside. On the way to the top, you will see the famous 'Cloud Maidens' frescoes painted on the rock wall. After lunch visit the ruins of Polonnaruwa, where you will see the remains of the Royal Palace, the statue of King Parakramabahu, the Thuparama Image house, and the captivating Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara - a well-preserved and fine example of ancient rock cut sculpture. Note: This day is of a strenuous nature as a number of steep steps must be climbed in order to reach the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Sigiriya - Beach resort.

Your fascinating cultural tour of Sri Lanka draws to a close today with a visit to the Dambulla Rock Cave Temples - five fantastically preserved caverns containing frescoes and statues of Buddha. Afterwards, transfer to your chosen beach resort. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 to 12: Beach Resort.

Seven full days to enjoy your Sri Lanka beach resort.

DAY 13: Sri Lanka Beach - UK.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK

DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.

Accommodation on Tour

Colombo: Ramada Colombo; Sigiriya: Sigiriya Village Hotel.

Note: Tour hotels will be as specified or alternatives of a similar standard.

Lihiniya Surf
Lihiniya Surf

The Surf Hotel, Bentota

Charmingly set between the Bentota River and glorious Bentota Beach, The Surf is perfect for a relaxing stay at the end of your tour. You will enjoy a warm welcome in pleasant and well-cared for surroundings.

Location: Directly on beautiful Bentota Beach, 66 kilometres south of Colombo.

Facilities: Swimming pool; restaurant; beach bar; reading lounge; Ayurveda centre offering massage, facials, thermo therapy, herbal oil and steam baths; TV area; laundry service; minibar and safe in bedrooms.

Price includes: Half board in a twin room with private facilities.

Official category: 3 star.