ROCS Bespoke Journeys 13 Day Sri Lanka

forward for the tour you are going to embark on, we make arrangements for this special dinner for you to enjoy the night. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 4 - DAMBULLA – SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards, prepare yourselves for a never before made experience to climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress! A resulted palace complex of a family feud in the ancient times which made Sigiriya the fortress in the skies. You can marvel each step you take from the entrance itself to the wonders this site beholds! On a lucky day, you may still witness the water fountain system functioning in the water gardens. Then walk through the boulder garden to the terrace gardens, and do not miss to climb and witness the beautiful frescoes which are protected to this date. You then walk along the Mirror Wall, where you can see the interesting verses inscribed by visitors who arrived at the rock since long time ago. Arrive at the magnificent Lion’s Paw, which will give you a glimpse of the wonders that are above. Take a minute to relax and capture few photos before heading to the top. When you reach the peak, you will have a 360-degree view of the area where you will realise the splendour of scenery on top, of the lush greenery, the lakes with views as far as you can imagine. Also viewing the historical ruins on the peak, take a moment to imagine yourself as the mighty ruler of this Kingdom and feel like Royalty! From here, travel back in time as you head to explore the second ancient capital of the island, in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The era of the Polonnaruwa kingdom is known as a golden

era in the island. You will learn the history and importance it holds and how this once self sufficient land gives lessons for life even today. The well preserved ruins will make you wonder the strength of the architects and the constructors back in the day, and the attention to detail of the craftsmanship will depict the massive talent which they held! Learn how foreign invasions influenced and changed the course of Sri Lankan citizens and how the land was won back. A timeless quote was made by an ancient ruler of this kingdom stating that “no drop of water falling from the heavens was to be wasted and each was to be used toward the development of the land”. See how the words were put into action, as this ruler constructed one of the largest lakes in the island. Take a moment to relax on the lake bund and refresh with some king coconut water before commencing the journey back. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner DAY 5 – DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards, commence the transfer to the central parts of the island. First visit of the day will be to the Dambulla cave temple. A temple built in appreciation by an ancient king for providing shelter during his period of exile. This is identified to be the best preserved cave temple complex in the island. Head inside the many revered caves where you will enter into a phase of tranquillity and see the insights of a not so often found cave temple. The surrounding scenery from the top will also offer breath taking views for you to take a moment and enjoy. En-route, the next stop will be at a spice garden in Matale. Sri Lanka was historically

attractive to the Western nations for its spice riches and the country is famous for a range of sought-after spices. Did you know, Sri Lanka produces arguably the best cinnamon in the world? Learn more about how the produce is cultivated and processed to achieve its high quality, and only if interested you have the opportunity to purchase them as required. Continue the journey to Kandy, and on arrival make way to explore the hill capital. Kandy, a city with great significance holds much importance for all Sri Lankans and foreign visitors alike. It was the last kingdom of the ancient kings of the island before it was finally ceded to the British. And being home to the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha, Kandy is an example of the Buddhism’s influence in Sri Lanka today. Head on an interesting city tour and walk navigating together with your guide through the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Travel to the various bazaars, mingle with the locals, experience local arts and crafts and enjoy some unique local food or drinks to keep you energized. The cool breeze that blows from the Kandy lake to the surroundings will create a refreshing climate making the experience that much nicer. The aptly named temple houses the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Since its arrival to the island in the ancient times, the relic had played an important role closely connected with the authority for Royalty. The visit is scheduled to be in-line of witnessing the daily service taking place. These rituals are carried out in a similar form as dedicated to Lord Buddha back then. The sound of the drums beating will notify you the start of the service. Ending an active day, head to the 5* Golden Crown Hotel for

ENCHANTING SRI LANKA 2026

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