Tales of Ancient Ceylon from Hikkaduwa (2 Days)

Start your journey at 0600 hrs from your hotel in Hikkaduwa. You will be met by a designated chauffer guide from Lakpura Travels. After the formalities at the hotel you will be escorted to your air conditioned vehicle and proceed to Dambulla and visit Cave Temple.

Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex.

Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October. In addition to elephants, get a chance to also see many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in the scrublands, forests and other areas.

After breakfast at the hotel check out and visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress. the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.

Walk through the ruins of the city that flourished between the 10th to the 13th century AD.

Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is a marvel of ancient Buddhist sculpture. Carved from a single granite rock face, this sacred site features four colossal statues of Lord Buddha, each depicting different aspects of his enlightenment. The largest standing Buddha statue reaches a height of over 7 meters. These remarkable sculptures, dating back to the 12th century, showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the ancient Sinhalese artisans and are revered as a masterpiece of Sri Lankan Buddhist art and architecture.

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage in Sri Lanka is a circular relic shrine, showcasing exquisite architectural craftsmanship from the ancient Sinhalese civilization. Built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (12th century AD), it served as a protective enclosure for the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Adorned with intricate stone carvings and surrounded by stone pillars, it stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and religious significance.

Nestled in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, the Lotus Pond stands as a serene testament to the island's rich history. Carved out of stone centuries ago, this tranquil reservoir reflects the surrounding lush greenery and the remnants of royal splendor. Adorned with blooming lotus flowers, it whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This ancient shrine, built in the 12th century, showcases exquisite Sinhalese architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and towering columns. Dedicated to Lord Buddha, its serene atmosphere invites contemplation amidst its historical splendor, making it a revered site for both locals and visitors seeking spiritual solace and cultural appreciation.

Carved from a single granite block, this imposing 12th-century sculpture depicts King Parakramabahu the Great in regal attire, exuding power and authority. The statue, measuring over 12 feet in height, reflects the grandeur and splendor of the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, serving as a remarkable symbol of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and royal legacy.

On completion start your journey back to your hotel in Hikkaduwa.