Ancient Wonders From Colombo (2 Days)

Uncover the ancient wonders of Sri Lanka with this captivating two-day tour from Colombo. Enjoy the country’s rich heritage as you explore iconic sites like the Dambulla Cave Temple, Polonnaruwa ruins, and Anuradhapura, guided by an expert. Marvel at the stunning Buddha statues and well-preserved ruins that bear witness to Sri Lanka’s storied past. With private transportation, comfortable accommodations, and inclusive entry fees, this tour promises a seamless and enriching experience. Delve deeper into the extraordinary history that lies hidden within these ancient wonders, and unlock the secrets that have captivated travelers for centuries.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Colombo.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, a 1st-century BCE site featuring Buddha statues and frescoes on a private overnight tour from Colombo.

• Discover the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ruins, including the impressive Gal Vihara and the remnants of the historic capital’s royal palaces and temples.

• Visit the sacred Anuradhapura city, an ancient administrative capital dating back to the 4th century BCE, home to the Ruwanwelisaya stupa and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.

• Enjoy the flexibility and personalization of a private tour, with a dedicated guide and private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and tailored experience.

• The tour package includes entrance fees, overnight accommodation, bottled water, and the convenience of pickup within 5 kilometers of Galleface Green, Colombo.

Tour Overview

Offering a private overnight experience in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this tour whisks travelers to remarkable ancient wonders.

Over two days, guests will visit the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, the historic ruins of Polonnaruwa, and the ancient city of Anuradhapura – all guided by a private expert.

Private transportation throughout ensures a relaxed and enjoyable journey, allowing guests to soak in the cultural and architectural marvels at their own pace.

With entrance fees, overnight accommodation, and bottled water included, this curated itinerary offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s illustrious past in complete comfort.

Inclusions

Included in this private overnight tour are the entrance fees to the Dambulla Cave Temple, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura – three of Sri Lanka’s most captivating ancient sites.

You’ll also enjoy overnight accommodation with breakfast, as well as a private guide dedicated to your group.

Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle is provided, including fuel, parking, and highway tolls.

To keep you hydrated, the tour includes two 500ml water bottles per person per day.

All prevailing taxes and service charges are covered, so you can focus on enjoying the rich history and culture of these remarkable destinations.

Exclusions

Typically, the tour doesn’t cover personal expenses, visa and related fees, tips and portages, or the accommodation for the chauffeur guide.

Travelers are responsible for their own personal spending, such as souvenirs, meals, and activities not included in the tour. Visa requirements and associated costs are also the traveler’s responsibility.

While the guide’s services are included, any tips or gratuities for the guide or other service providers are at the traveler’s discretion.

Plus, the accommodation for the chauffeur guide isn’t included in the tour package.

These exclusions allow the tour to maintain a competitive price while providing a comprehensive experience.

Pickup and Participation

The tour offers pickup from locations within 5 kilometers of Galleface Green in Colombo.

The start time and duration depend on the selected tour option. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.

Some key points about participation:

• Comfortable clothing and hats are recommended.
• Infant seats are available, but the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back issues or serious medical conditions.
• This is a private tour, so you’ll have the experience tailored to your group only.

Booking Information

Confirmed at the time of booking, or within 48 hours for last-minute reservations, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start of the experience.

Pricing varies based on group size, with a lowest price guarantee ensuring you get the best deal. With an overall rating of 5.0 from 1 review, this private tour of Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders is a popular choice.

Whether you’re booking for a small group or a larger party, the flexibility and convenience of this tour make it an excellent option for exploring Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura at your own pace.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Though carved into the side of a massive rock formation, the Dambulla Cave Temple complex dates back to the 1st century BCE, making it one of the oldest and most significant archaeological sites in Sri Lanka.

Visitors can explore five distinct cave temples, each housing stunning Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings that depict religious scenes and Sri Lankan history.

The complex includes:

• The largest and most impressive cave, known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, which features a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha statue.
• Numerous standing Buddha statues, some dating back over 2,000 years.
• Beautifully preserved frescoes covering the cave walls and ceilings.

Polonnaruwa Ruins

As one travels from the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, the next stop on the tour is the impressive Polonnaruwa ruins.

This ancient city was once the thriving capital of Sri Lanka, and its well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Visitors can wander through the remains of royal palaces, temples, and shrines, marveling at the intricate carvings and architectural details.

The Gal Vihara, a series of four colossal Buddha statues carved into a single slab of granite, is a particular highlight. With a private guide to provide context and insights, travelers can enjoy the history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Anuradhapura Sacred City

After exploring the impressive Polonnaruwa ruins, the tour continues onward to the Anuradhapura sacred city.

This ancient administrative capital of Sri Lanka dates back to the 4th century BC and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can expect to discover:

• The Ruwanwelisaya, a massive white stupa towering over the city skyline.
• The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree said to be the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
• The Abhayagiriya, an impressive complex of monasteries, temples, and stupas, once home to over 5,000 monks.

The guided tour provides valuable insights into the rich cultural and religious heritage of this awe-inspiring ancient city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Times of Year to Visit?

The best times to visit Sri Lanka are during the dry seasons – from December to March in the Cultural Triangle region and from May to September in the southwest region. The weather is generally pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, including exploring the Dambulla Cave Temple, Polonnaruwa ruins, and Anuradhapura sacred city. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and there are opportunities to rest between sites. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to your interests. The private nature of the tour allows you to work with the guide to modify the schedule and activities to better suit your preferences.

What Should I Pack for the Overnight Stay?

For an overnight stay, travelers should pack comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, any necessary medications, and personal toiletries. It’s also recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

How Do I Communicate With the Local Guide?

The private guide will be fluent in both English and the local language, making communication easy. Travelers can ask questions, get insights, and engage in conversation throughout the tour for a personalized experience.

Recap

This two-day private tour from Colombo offers an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders. Discover the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple, explore the well-preserved ruins of Polonnaruwa, and uncover the sacred sites of Anuradhapura – all while enjoying comfortable transportation and expert guidance. It’s an enriching experience that showcases the country’s remarkable historical and cultural heritage.