3 Days Glimpse Of Sri Lanka

Exploring the vibrant cultural tapestry and stunning natural landscapes of Sri Lanka can be a captivating experience, even in a brief 3-day glimpse. This compact tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the island’s ancient traditions, from the serene Ayurvedic Herbal Garden to the sacred Temple of the Tooth. Along the way, visitors will uncover the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress and venture into the lush Minneriya National Park, where they might spot the majestic Asian elephant. With a blend of history, spirituality, and wildlife, this itinerary provides a tantalizing introduction to Sri Lanka’s diverse wonders.

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

Key Points

• This 3-day "Glimpse of Sri Lanka" tour offers a compact itinerary for first-time visitors to experience the country’s diverse cultural and natural wonders.
• The tour covers cultural cities, attractions like Ayurvedic gardens and ancient temples, as well as wildlife encounters at Minneriya National Park.
• The package includes private transportation and a professional guide to enhance the overall experience and provide insights into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
• Highlights of the tour include the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and a village safari experience.
• The tour is priced from $358.40 for groups of up to 4 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Tour Overview

The 3-day "Glimpse of Sri Lanka" tour provides first-time visitors or those on a short stay an opportunity to explore the cultural cities, sightseeing attractions, elephants, temples, rock fortress, village life, and cultural shows of this vibrant island nation.

Included in the package are a private air-conditioned vehicle, a professional English-speaking chauffeur guide, local taxes, food, drinks, and entrance fees.

Priced from $358.40 per group (up to 4 people), the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

This compact itinerary is ideal for those looking to get a taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural and natural wonders.

Detailed Itinerary

On the first day, the tour begins with a visit to an Ayurvedic Herbal Garden, where the group meets the guide and explores an Elephant Orphanage and Spice Garden (30 minutes, admission not included). The group then continues to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic for a guided city tour, a visit to the Kandy Temple, and a cultural show (4 hours, admission not included).

Day	Destination	Activities
1	Colombo to Kandy	Ayurvedic Herbal Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
2	Kandy to Sigiriya	Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Minneriya National Park
3	Sigiriya to Colombo	Village Safari, Colombo Fort

The second day takes the group to Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and Minneriya National Park for a jungle safari. On the final day, the tour explores Sri Lankan culture through a Village Safari before returning to Colombo or the airport.

Ayurvedic Herbal Garden

Upon arriving at the Ayurvedic Herbal Garden, the group meets their knowledgeable guide.

The guide leads them on a tour, showcasing the diverse array of medicinal plants and herbs used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Visitors learn about the unique properties and applications of each botanical specimen, from cinnamon to turmeric.

The guide enthusiastically shares insights into the centuries-old practice of Ayurveda, explaining how these natural remedies are cultivated and utilized for holistic wellness.

The group explores the serene garden, senses piqued by the aromatic plants and the guide’s engaging commentary.

This stop provides a captivating introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of natural healing and traditional medicine.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Bidding farewell to the aromatic Ayurvedic Herbal Garden, the group now heads to the renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

This revered Buddhist site is home to a sacred tooth of the Buddha, believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century. Accompanied by the guide, the group explores the intricate architecture and learns about the temple’s rich history and cultural significance.

They witness the captivating cultural show, which showcases traditional music, dance, and drumming. The visit to this iconic landmark provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s profound spiritual heritage and the country’s enduring Buddhist traditions.

Dambulla Cave Temple

After their visit to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the group now heads to the Dambulla Cave Temple.

This impressive cave complex features five distinct caves, each housing remarkable statues and paintings. Visitors can explore:

1. The largest cave, which contains an impressive 153 Buddha statues.
2. Intricate wall paintings depicting the life of Buddha.
3. Ancient rock carvings and inscriptions.
4. Stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the temple’s hilltop location.

With its rich history and cultural significance, the Dambulla Cave Temple provides a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Next, the group explores the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rising 660 feet above the surrounding plains, the dramatic rock fortress was once the palace of an ancient king.

Visitors climb the steep staircase, marveling at the frescoes, water gardens, and the massive lion’s paws carved into the rock. At the summit, they’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views across the verdant landscape.

This impressive archaeological site offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and the engineering feats of its past rulers. With its combination of natural beauty and cultural significance, Sigiriya is a must-see destination for visitors seeking to uncover the wonders of this island nation.

Minneriya National Park

Following the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the group then makes its way to Minneriya National Park for a thrilling jungle safari.

The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including:

1. Majestic elephants, which can be seen roaming the grasslands and drinking from the park’s watering holes.
2. A variety of bird species, such as the vibrant peacocks and the elusive leopards that call the park home.
3. Breath-taking landscapes, from the serene lakes to the dense forests teeming with life.
4. The opportunity to take in the natural beauty and serenity of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

The safari provides an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the wonders of Minneriya National Park firsthand.

Village Safari

Concluding the Sigiriya Rock Fortress visit, the tour then takes guests on a captivating Village Safari experience.

Travelers can enjoy Sri Lankan culture, riding in traditional Tuk Tuks and cow carts. They’ll enjoy a delightful traditional meal and try their hand at canoeing on the village’s tranquil waters.

This 2-hour excursion offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and customs of the local community. Guests depart the Village Safari with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lankan heritage and an unforgettable cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can cancel their reservation without penalty as long as they do so at least one day in advance.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized?

The tour can be customized or personalized, as it’s a private tour where only your group participates. You can work with the tour operator to modify the itinerary or request specific activities to cater to your interests.

What Type of Cuisine Is Served During the Meals?

The tour includes a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at the Oak Ray Restaurant during the visit to Sigiriya. The meal showcases the local cuisine, featuring a variety of rice, curry dishes, and other authentic Sri Lankan fare.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Included in the Price?

The tour price does not include admission fees for the attractions visited, which must be paid separately. However, all other costs like transportation, guide services, and meals are covered in the quoted price.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private experience, with only the customer’s group participating. The itinerary does not specify a maximum group size, so the average group size likely varies based on each booking’s needs.

Recap

This 3-day tour offers an enthralling introduction to Sri Lanka’s captivating cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Travelers will explore renowned sites like the Temple of the Tooth and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, enjoy a village safari, and encounter wildlife in Minneriya National Park. It’s an ideal way for first-time visitors to discover the diverse wonders that make Sri Lanka a truly enchanting destination.