Ramayana Trail – Sri Lanka (6 Nights / 7 Days)

Arrival in Sri Lanka – Transfer to Sigiriya Morning/Afternoon: Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by your English-speaking chauffeur/guide. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred to Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations. Drive time: Approximately 4-5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Sri Lanka’s countryside, lush landscapes, and rural villages along the way. Evening: Check-in at Sigiriya Village (4-Star) Upon arrival, check into your Sigiriya Village hotel (4-star), where you can unwind after your journey. The evening is free for you to rest or take a leisurely walk around the hotel grounds. Optional: If you're feeling energetic, take a brief walk to the nearby Sigiriya Rock Fortress to catch a stunning sunset view over the surrounding landscapes. Accommodation: Sigiriya Village (4-Star) Meals: No meals included on this day (Optional dinner at the hotel). Optional Evening Activities: Leisure time: Relax in your hotel’s peaceful surroundings or enjoy the vibrant Sri Lankan nature near Sigiriya. Local experience: Explore local markets or shops near your hotel for handicrafts and souvenirs. Overnight Stay: Sigiriya Village (No meals included)

Sigiriya → Trincomalee Morning: Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (also known as Lion's Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sigiriya Rock is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks, known for its ancient ruins and breathtaking views. The climb to the top (approximately 3 hours) will take you through a series of staircases, frescoes, and historical remains, with panoramic views of the lush greenery and nearby lakes. The fortress is historically significant and believed to have been the site of King Kassapa’s royal palace. The fascinating frescoes of beautiful damsels are a must-see on this climb. Ramayana Connection: Sigiriya is sometimes linked to the Ramayana epic as a potential site where Ravana had hidden Sita in his palace. Late Morning: Drive to Trincomalee After the visit to Sigiriya, begin your journey to Trincomalee. Travel time: Approx. 2-3 hours, driving through the picturesque countryside, with views of local villages, plantations, and coastal areas. Afternoon: Check-in at Trinco Blu (4-Star) Upon arrival in Trincomalee, check-in to your Trinco Blu (4-Star) hotel, where you can relax and unwind. Take some time to enjoy the beach or simply relax in the hotel’s comfortable surroundings. Evening: Visit the Koneswaram Temple Koneswaram Temple, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the ocean, is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the Ramayana, Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple, seeking divine favor. It is also associated with the legend of Ravana’s kingdom. The temple is a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance, making it an ideal spot for reflection and quiet contemplation. You can also explore the Swami Rock area, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. Evening at Leisure After the temple visit, enjoy the serene beaches of Trincomalee, which are among the most beautiful in Sri Lanka. You can relax by the shore or indulge in a peaceful walk along the beach. Optional: Enjoy a local seafood dinner at your hotel or at a beachside restaurant. Overnight Stay: Trinco Blu (4-Star) Meals: No meals included (Optional dinner at the hotel)

Trincomalee → Kandy Morning: Visit Koneswaram Temple After breakfast at your hotel, take some time to explore Koneswaram Temple further if you wish. This is one of the most historically significant Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Shiva. As per the Ramayana, Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple to gain strength and divine favor for his conquest. The temple’s cliff-side location offers magnificent views of the Trincomalee Bay. Late Morning: Drive to Kandy After exploring the temple, check out of your hotel and start your journey to Kandy. Travel time: Approximately 5-6 hours, passing through scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and the rich countryside of Sri Lanka. Afternoon: Arrival in Kandy – Check-in at Topaz Hotel (4-Star) Arrive in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, and check-in at your hotel, Topaz Hotel (4-star). Take a break and refresh yourself after the long drive. Late Afternoon: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic In the late afternoon, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists. This temple houses the Tooth Relic of Buddha, which was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century and remains an important part of the island’s religious history. Ramayana Connection: Kandy is not directly connected to the Ramayana, but it is often associated with the ancient Kingdom of Lanka where Ravana ruled. Some local myths suggest that Ravana’s kingdom extended to this region, and it is believed that Lord Rama may have passed through this area in his pursuit of Sita. Evening: Explore the Kandy Lake and Local Markets After visiting the temple, take a peaceful walk around the Kandy Lake, which lies next to the temple, and enjoy the tranquil environment. You can also stroll through Kandy's local markets, where you can find souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and local delicacies. This is a great opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of Kandy. Optional: Kandy Cultural Dance Performance In the evening, you may choose to attend a cultural dance performance, showcasing traditional Kandyan dances. These performances are a vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, accompanied by drumming, colorful costumes, and intricate movements. Overnight Stay: Topaz Hotel (4-Star) Meals: No meals included (Optional dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant)

Kandy → Nuwara Eliya Morning: Visit Ramboda Hanuman Temple and Sita Tear Pond After breakfast, begin your journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 3-4 hours). En route, stop at the Ramboda Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, one of the central figures in the Ramayana. This temple is located at Ramboda Pass, offering a scenic view of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. The temple marks the spot where Hanuman is believed to have leapt from the mountains to Ashoka Vatika in Sri Lanka to search for Sita. Not far from the temple, you can visit Sita Tear Pond, also associated with the Ramayana. It is believed that Sita wept while being held captive by Ravana at this location, and the pond is said to have been formed from her tears. Afternoon: Continue to Nuwara Eliya After your visit to Ramboda, continue your drive to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" due to its colonial charm and cool climate. Travel time: Approximately 1-2 hours from Ramboda to Nuwara Eliya. Check-in at Araliya Red (4-Star) Arrive in Nuwara Eliya and check in at Araliya Red (4-Star), your comfortable hotel for the next two nights. Nuwara Eliya offers a picturesque setting, and the cool climate makes it a perfect place to relax. Evening: Explore Nuwara Eliya In the late afternoon, take a stroll around Nuwara Eliya’s town. Visit the Victoria Park, a beautiful park where you can enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature. You can also visit the Nuwara Eliya Post Office, which is a colonial-era building with a lovely atmosphere. If time allows, explore Gregory Lake, a serene lake with boat rides and scenic views. Overnight Stay: Araliya Red (4-Star) Meals: No meals included (Optional dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant) Additional Options: Tea Plantation Tour: Nuwara Eliya is famous for its tea plantations, and you can take an optional visit to one of the many tea factories where you can learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea and enjoy a fresh cup of tea. Ramboda Falls: If you have extra time and energy, you may also visit Ramboda Falls, located near the Hanuman Temple, where the picturesque waterfall adds to the natural beauty of the area.

Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Nuwara Eliya Morning: Visit Seetha Amman Temple & Ashoka Vatika After breakfast at your hotel in Nuwara Eliya, start your day by visiting the Seetha Amman Temple, one of the most significant Ramayana sites in Sri Lanka. This temple marks the spot where Sita was held captive by Ravana during his reign. The temple is dedicated to Sita and houses a beautiful idol of the goddess. The surroundings are peaceful, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and connection to the Ramayana legends. Close by is Ashoka Vatika, the garden where Ravana kept Sita during her captivity. This garden is significant in the Ramayana and is said to be where Lord Rama arrived to rescue Sita. Late Morning: Hakgala Botanical Garden After visiting Seetha Amman Temple and Ashoka Vatika, head to the nearby Hakgala Botanical Garden, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous botanical gardens. The garden is home to a variety of exotic plants, including a well-known rose garden, and offers beautiful walking paths amid lush greenery. The cool climate of the area and the serene environment make it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature walks. Historically, Hakgala is said to have been part of Ravana’s palace complex, and some believe this was the area where Sita was held captive. Afternoon: Travel to Ella After lunch in Nuwara Eliya, travel to Ella (approximately 2-3 hours). This scenic drive offers panoramic views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and stunning mountain landscapes. Ella: Visit Ravana Falls & Ravana Cave Upon arrival in Ella, visit the beautiful Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous waterfalls. The falls are associated with the Ramayana, as Ravana is believed to have hidden Sita near this waterfall. It is a spectacular sight, particularly during the rainy season when the water is at its fullest. Next, visit the Ravana Cave, which is believed to have been the place where Sita was kept imprisoned by Ravana. The cave offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and is an important site for Ramayana enthusiasts. Evening: Return to Nuwara Eliya After visiting Ravana Falls and Ravana Cave, you will return to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 2-3 hours). The scenic drive back to Nuwara Eliya allows you to enjoy more of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes and picturesque hill-country views. Overnight Stay: Araliya Red (4-Star) Meals: No meals included (Optional dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant) Optional Activities in Ella: Hiking to Ella Rock: If you’re up for a hike, take a short trek to Ella Rock, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Nine Arches Bridge: One of the most photographed spots in Sri Lanka, this iconic bridge is an excellent place for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Nuwara Eliya – Colombo (Departure) Morning: Explore Nuwara Eliya Start your day with a relaxing morning in Nuwara Eliya. If you haven’t already, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Gregory Lake. The calm waters and beautiful surrounding hills provide a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the town. Alternatively, you could take a stroll around Victoria Park, a lovely park that’s ideal for bird-watching and enjoying the local flora. Late Morning: Optional Tea Factory Visit If you’re interested in Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea, you can opt for a guided tour of a tea factory. Nuwara Eliya is known for its tea plantations, and visiting a factory gives you a deeper understanding of the Ceylon tea production process. You’ll also have the chance to taste some freshly brewed tea while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding plantation. Lunch: Traditional Sri Lankan Meal After your morning activities, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at one of the town’s local restaurants or at your hotel. This is an opportunity to try local dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers, or kottu roti. Afternoon: Travel to Colombo After lunch, check out from your hotel in Nuwara Eliya and begin your journey to Colombo (approx. 5-6 hours). The scenic drive will take you through tea plantations, valleys, and rural towns, giving you one last chance to enjoy Sri Lanka's natural beauty. You can also stop for a brief visit to St. Clair’s Falls and Devon Falls, two of the largest and most scenic waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Evening: Colombo City Tour Upon arrival in Colombo, take a brief city tour. Explore the commercial capital and its blend of modern and colonial architecture. Fort: This area once housed British administrative buildings, and today it is home to many shops and offices. Pettah Bazaar: A bustling market with a wide variety of goods, from local produce to street food. Dutch Church of Wolfendahl: Visit this historical church dating back to 1749. Late Evening: Shopping at ODEL Unlimited End the day with some shopping at ODEL Unlimited, one of Colombo’s largest shopping malls. ODEL offers a wide range of designer clothes, accessories, local crafts, and souvenirs, making it the perfect spot to pick up gifts or mementos from your Sri Lanka journey. Overnight Stay: Grandbell Hotel (4-Star) After the tour and shopping, check in at your hotel in Colombo for an overnight stay. Meals: No meals included (Optional dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant)

Colombo – Departure Morning: Leisure Time or Optional Sightseeing Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel in Colombo. Depending on your flight schedule, you can: Take a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Go for a short walk along Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade in Colombo. Visit a souvenir shop or local market to pick up any last-minute gifts or handicrafts. Optional (Time Permitting): Visit to Kelaniya Temple If time allows before your departure, consider visiting the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, an important Buddhist temple linked to the Ramayana. According to legend, after Ravana’s defeat, Vibhishana was crowned King of Lanka at this location by Lord Rama. The temple features beautiful murals and is a peaceful spiritual site just outside Colombo. Midday: Hotel Check-Out & Transfer to Airport After breakfast or your optional morning activities, return to your hotel to check out. You will then be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport in time for your return flight. The drive from Colombo city to the airport takes approximately 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Meals: Breakfast (if included in your hotel package) Accommodation: None (Departure Day)