3 Days Ancient Capital Cities Tour From Colombo

Discover the captivating history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka on a 3-day Ancient Capital Cities Tour from Colombo. Explore the archaeological wonders and sacred sites of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, enjoying the country’s rich past. With transportation, hotel transfers, and expert guides included, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to uncover the timeless allure of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a cultural adventure, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island nation’s enduring legacy.

This experience made our list of the 19 Best 3 Day Tours In Colombo.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour focuses on exploring the ancient capital cities of Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy.
• The tour is priced from $278 per person and includes transportation, hotel transfers, English-speaking driver-guides, select meals, and entrance fees.
• Travelers must have a valid passport and follow COVID-19 protocols, such as quarantine or negative PCR test, depending on vaccination status.
• The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with health concerns.
• Visitors must adhere to the dress code for temple visits, which includes covering shoulders and knees and removing footwear and hats.

Tour Overview

This 3-day Ancient Capital Cities Tour from Colombo, Sri Lanka provides an immersive experience exploring the country’s rich historical legacy.

Priced from $278 per person, the private tour allows your group to discover the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy.

Inclusive of transportation, hotel transfers, English-speaking driver-guides, select meals, and all entrance fees, the tour offers convenience and value.

Visitors should note the requirements for travel, including a valid passport, potential quarantine or COVID-19 testing, and appropriate attire for visiting religious sites.

With moderate fitness required, this tour promises an insightful journey through Sri Lanka’s storied past.

Inclusions

What does this tour include?

This 3-day ancient capital cities tour from Colombo includes transport via air-conditioned bus, van, or car, as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off.

An English-speaking driver cum guide will accompany the group. Breakfast and dinner are provided on 2 days.

Bottled water and complimentary WiFi (subject to availability) are also included. All entrance fees to the sites are covered.

The tour doesn’t include any additional food or drinks, gratuities, or refunds for cancellations.

Travelers must have a valid passport and follow COVID-19 protocols based on their vaccination status.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and specific attire is required for temple visits.

Exclusions

The tour doesn’t include any food and drinks not specified in the inclusions.

Travelers are responsible for covering any gratuities they wish to provide.

This is a non-refundable tour, meaning no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

Participants must have a current valid passport to join the tour on the travel day.

Unvaccinated passengers are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine before the tour, while vaccinated passengers must stay in a Level 1 hotel and obtain a negative PCR report, with no quarantine needed.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and visitors to temples must remove their footwear and hats and cover their shoulders and knees.

Travel Requirements

For this tour, current valid passports are required on the travel day.

Unvaccinated passengers must complete a 14-day quarantine before the tour. Vaccinated passengers can stay in a Level 1 hotel and obtain a negative PCR report, without needing to quarantine.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and visitors to temples must remove their footwear and hats, as well as cover their shoulders and knees.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for travelers with heart problems, back issues, or pregnant individuals. A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this tour.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Wheelchair accessibility isn’t available for this tour, and it isn’t recommended for travelers with heart problems, back issues, or who are pregnant.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required. The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates may be offered if canceled due to poor weather.

The duration of transfers is approximate and depends on traffic conditions. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Visitors to temples should remove their footwear and hats and cover their shoulders and knees.

Itinerary

This three-day tour whisks travelers through Sri Lanka’s ancient capital cities, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The itinerary begins with a visit to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, known for its well-preserved archaeological ruins and the famous Sri Maha Bodhi tree.

Next, the tour moves to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, where visitors can explore the ancient palace, temples, and statues.

Finally, the journey concludes in Kandy, home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the serene Udawattekele Sanctuary.

Guests will enjoy a balance of guided sightseeing, culture, and free time to truly experience the essence of these captivating destinations.

Pricing and Booking

The Ancient Capital Cities Tour is priced from $278.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

The tour is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate. All transportation, hotel pickups and drop-offs, an English-speaking driver/guide, and entrance fees are included.

Breakfast and dinner for 2 days, bottled water, and complimentary WiFi (where available) are also provided. However, guests must cover the cost of any additional food, drinks, and gratuities.

The tour is non-refundable, and specific travel requirements, such as a valid passport and COVID-19 protocols, must be met. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Additional Information

Travelers should note that the Ancient Capital Cities Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with heart problems, back issues, or pregnant individuals, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates may be offered if canceled due to poor weather. Plus, the duration of transfers is approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Visitors to temples must remove their footwear and hats and cover their shoulders and knees.

1. Unvaccinated passengers must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine before the tour.
2. Vaccinated passengers must stay in a Level 1 hotel and obtain a negative PCR report, with no quarantine required.
3. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be fully customized, but travelers can discuss preferences with the tour operator. Adjustments may be possible within the set schedule, subject to availability and guide approval.

Can I Request a Different Language-Speaking Guide?

Travelers can request a different language-speaking guide, though availability may vary. The tour operator will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the request, subject to guide expertise and scheduling.

Do You Provide Child Seats or Booster Seats?

Yes, child seats and booster seats can be provided upon request at no additional cost. Travelers are advised to inform the tour operator of any child passengers when booking the tour.

Can I Leave My Luggage in the Vehicle During Site Visits?

Yes, you can leave your luggage in the vehicle during site visits. The tour provider offers secure storage for your belongings while you explore the ancient capital cities on this private tour.

Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Local Community?

The tour provides opportunities to interact with the local community. Travelers can visit local markets, chat with village elders, and learn about traditional crafts and customs during select site visits throughout the 3-day itinerary.

Recap

This captivating 3-day Ancient Capital Cities Tour from Colombo offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. Travelers will discover archaeological wonders, sacred sites, and cultural tapestry while adhering to health and safety guidelines. With inclusions like transportation, hotel transfers, and expert guides, this tour provides an affordable and comprehensive way to experience the country’s ancient capital cities.