Arrival and welcome at the airport by a representative of the local agency Ceylon Best Holidays. Transfer to Colombo. After lunch – city tour of Colombo.
Founded by Arab traders, fortified by the Portuguese, conquered by the Dutch, and later developed by the British as a significant colonial capital – Colombo combines a colonial past with a modern, dynamic business district.
Over 1 million people live here. The architecture is elegant and at times eccentric: – a lighthouse in the middle of the business district, – the over 500-year-old Pettah Market, surrounded by skyscrapers and colonial buildings.
After breakfast – drive to Anuradhapura and sightseeing.
Anuradhapura was the capital of the first Sinhalese kingdom and is considered a “Holy City” for Buddhists worldwide. It is famous for its dagobas (stupas), including:
Anuradhapura is still considered the religious center of Buddhism today.
The city’s most important pilgrimage site. It originates from a branch of the tree in Bodh Gaya (India, Nepal border) under which Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment. This sapling was brought to Sri Lanka by the nun Sanghamitta – daughter of the Indian Emperor Ashoka.
Since the original tree no longer exists, the Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura is the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
After breakfast – climb the Sigiriya rock.
A 180 m high rock with the legendary “Sky Fortress”. Via stairs between the giant lion paws, you reach:
Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Sri Lanka’s most visited landmarks.
After lunch – visit to Polonnaruwa.
The medieval capital of Sri Lanka (1070–1293). Today, the city is an outstanding center of cultural heritage. To be seen are:
The most famous temple complex in Polonnaruwa with four Buddha statues carved into rock: – sitting – standing – reclining – meditating
UNESCO World Heritage site, the largest and best-preserved cave temple in the country. Over 80 documented caves, the main attractions are located in five of them:
The frescoes depict scenes from Buddha’s life, including the temptation by Mara. 2700-year-old graves were discovered in the area – evidence of early settlement.
Insight into the cultivation of cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, etc. Explanation of medical and cosmetic use, shopping opportunities.
After lunch – city tour of Kandy and visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth.
The last Sinhalese capital – picturesquely situated between hills. Known for:
The Tooth of Buddha arrived in Sri Lanka in 311 AD and became a symbol of royal power. In 1590, King Vimaladharmasuriya I built the current temple.
Every year in August, the magnificent Esala Perahera takes place here.
One of the best in Asia, founded in 1821. Worth seeing: – 750 species of indoor plants – 100 species of orchids – 175 species of palms – Avenue of memorial trees
Sri Lanka – Rathnadweepa (“Island of Gems”). Famous for sapphires, rubies, cat’s eyes, alexandrites, and many other gemstones. Numerous world-famous gemstones originate from here.
Tour and tea tasting of the best Ceylon tea.
Another visit possible (if time permits in the program).
Afterwards – return trip to Colombo.
⚠️ For a subsequent beach holiday in the south, southwest, or northwest, an additional transfer surcharge is required.
– Accommodation in a double room (half board) – Air-conditioned transfers – Russian-speaking tour guide – Entrance fees according to the program – Taxes
– Lunch – Early check-in / Late check-out – Personal expenses – Photo/video permits – Tips
03.07.2026 
