Ramayana Trails of Sri Lanka

Ramayana Trails of Sri Lanka (7 Nights / 8 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Negombo

Arrive at Colombo International Airport. You will be greeted by your guide and transferred to Negombo, a coastal town (approx. 1 hour drive from Colombo). Afternoon Check-in to your hotel and relax. Later, visit Negombo Beach, Dutch Fort, and St. Mary’s Church. Evening spend time exploring the local area or enjoy a sunset walk along the beach. Overnight Stay in Negombo.

Day 2: Negombo to Anuradhapura (5-6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, depart for Anuradhapura,one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afternoon: Visit key sites connected with the Ramayana, such as:

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree: The sacred fig tree, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, is linked with the Ramayana as it is believed that the tree was planted by the daughter of King Ravana. Ruvanvelisaya Stupa: A sacred Buddhist site in Anuradhapura with a fascinating history. Tissa Wewa: The water reservoir mentioned in Ramayana. Evening Check-in to your hotel in Anuradhapura and enjoy a relaxed evening. Overnight Stay in Anuradhapura.

Day 3: Anuradhapura to Habarana – Visit to Dambulla Cave Temple

After breakfast, depart for Habarana (approx. 2 hours drive). Afternoon: En route, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple (also known as the Golden Temple), which houses numerous statues of Lord Buddha and paintings. This site is linked to the Ramayana as it is believed that Lord Rama stayed here during his quest to rescue Sita. Evening: Check-in to your hotel in Habarana. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the cultural triangle. Overnight Stay in Habarana.

Day 4: Habarana – Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa

Morning after breakfast, head to Sigiriya (approx. 30 minutes drive) to explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also said that Ravana used this rock fortress to imprison Sita. Afternoon Continue to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka (approx. 1 hour drive). Visit the Gal Vihara (temple with rock carvings) and other ruins. Polonnaruwa is connected with the Ramayana as it is believed to be a region under Ravana’s rule. Evening: Return to your hotel in Habarana for an overnight stay. Overnight Stay in Habarana.

Day 5: Habarana to Kandy (3 hrs drive)

Morning: After breakfast, head to Kandy . Kandy is a sacred city and holds a significant place in Sri Lanka’s history and culture. Afternoon: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Evening: Attend the Kandy Cultural Dance Performance, showcasing Sri Lankan traditional dance and music. Overnight Stay in Kandy.

Day 6: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (approx. 2.5-3 hours drive) – Visit to Seetha Amman Temple

Morning: After breakfast, depart for Nuwara Eliya (approx. 2.5-3 hours drive). Nuwara Eliya is known for its picturesque landscapes and cool climate, often referred to as “Little England.” Afternoon visit the Seetha Amman Temple, located in the village of Ramboda. It is believed that Sita was held captive here by Ravana. You can also see the Ramboda Falls, which is linked to the Ramayana epic. Evening: Explore Lake Gregory or take a stroll through Victoria Park in Nuwara Eliya. Overnight Stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya to Kataragama

Morning after breakfast, travel to Kataragama (approx. 5-6 hours drive), an important religious site for Hindus and Buddhists. Afternoon: Visit the Kataragama Temple. This ancient temple is associated with Lord Skanda and also tied to Ravana, who is said to have worshipped Lord Shiva at this site. Evening relax in the serene environment of Kataragama. Overnight: Stay in Kataragama.

Day 8: Kataragama to Colombo (4-5 hrs drive) & Departure

Morning after breakfast, depart for Colombo (approx. 4-5 hours drive). Afternoon: Upon arrival in Colombo, take a city tour visiting Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market, and Galle Face Green. If time permits, visit the Colombo National Museum or take a stroll through Viharamahadevi Park. Evening: Transfer to Colombo International Airport for your departure flight.