Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour

Day 01: Arrival at Colombo – Chilaw – Dambulla

After your arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be greeted by an Esna Holidays representative and guide. You will be taken through all formalities before proceeding to Dambulla in your air-conditioned vehicle.En-route Visits:

Munishwaram Temple:

Your sojourn begins with Munishwaram Temple. A place rich in legend and history. After winning his fight against the king of Lanka, King Ravana, it is said in Ramayana, Lord Rama returned from the sky back to Ayodhya riding Ravana’s Vimana, also called a chariot. It is then he found he had suffered the Brahmahatya Dosham: that incurs due to the death of a Brahmin on the battle. By eliminating himself from that brahmahathya, Lord Rama visited Munishwaram for seeking help from Lord Shiva. Shiva told him to consecrate and worship four sacred lingams to free himself of the curse. These lingams were installed at significant sites, including Munishwaram in Sri Lanka, and Rameshwaram in India.

Manavari Temple:

Then you will go on to the Manavari Temple, which lies near the banks of Deduru Oya, about 5 kilometers from Munishwaram. Significantly, this temple houses the first lingam, known as Ramalinga Shivan, installed by Lord Rama himself. This lingam is deeply religious because it marks the first of the four consecrated lingams intended to lessen the curse placed upon Rama.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress:

Proceeding towards Dambulla, your next destination is Sigiriya Rock Fortress also known as Lion Rock. This ancient rock fortress towers nearly 200 meters above the ground, and it was once the royal citadel of King Kasyapa who ruled from 477 to 495 AD. The unique architecture and engineering of this fortress are highlighted by the Water Gardens and by the frescoes of beautiful women along the way. As you climb up to the crest of the rock, all you would see are panorama views around the landscape below.

Sigiriya has deep connections with the Ramayana. The top of the rock is said to have been the location of Ravana’s palace, which Kubera, the God of Wealth, built using solid gold. There are caves that are said to be the location where Sita was kept after being abducted by Ravana. Frescoes of the Ramayana and pictures of Ravana’s wives still adorn the cave walls.

After visiting Sigiriya, you will drive to your hotel in Dambulla for check-in and relaxation.  Overnight stay at your hotel in Dambulla.

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Day 02: Dambulla – Trincomalee – Dambulla

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will proceed on your journey to Trincomalee, a port city on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast.

Visit Koneswaram Temple:

The Koneswaram Temple, popularly referred to as the Temple of the Thousand Pillars, is situated on top of Swami Rock and has magnificent views of Trincomalee. It is an important pilgrimage site for Saivites, and it also carries great historical importance. There are several ornate shrines with a massive statue of Lord Shiva.

Shankari Temple

Shankari Devi Temple-Visit this one out of the 18 temples of Devi that lie in Sri Lanka. This is linked with the LANKAAYAAM SHAANKARI DEVI composed by the great Adi Shankaracharya. The location has a deep history connected with it, and not to forget its beautiful surroundings have a peaceful feeling to offer.

Kanniya Hot Springs:

Later, visit the Kanniya Hot Springs, located in Trincomalee. The site features seven natural hot wells arranged in a square shape, with each spring having different temperatures. The wells are shallow and provide an exciting experience for visitors. In the evening, return to your hotel in Dambulla and spend time there. Overnight stay at your hotel in Dambulla.

Day 03: Dambulla – Nuwara Eliya

Following a wonderful breakfast at your hotel, you continue your sightseeing trip.

Spice Garden of Matale

You visit the Spice Garden of Matale where Sri Lanka produces world-class herbs and spices. Here you get to know more on the eco-friendly farming systems of cinnamon, vanilla nutmeg, pepper and such other spices. To enjoy the best spice from this particular place, you could obtain it at the very appropriate souvenir shop towards the end.

Visit Sri Muthumariamman Temple

Visit Sri Muthumariamman Temple, Matale. This temple is very popular for its massive Gopurams and its sculptures which are intricately detailed. The goddess is said to be related to fertility, healing, and rain-bringing blessings.

Visit Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple

Proceed to the Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple, where it is said that Lord Hanuman searched for Sita. The temple houses a gigantic 40-foot granite statue of Lord Hanuman and a pond called the ‘Sita Tear Pond,’ which was formed by the tears of Sita. The place is historically important as it is part of the Ramayana legend.

Understand Tea Production

Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about the meticulous process of tea production. You get a chance to see how tea is cultivated, plucked, and processed with ancient machines, followed by a tea-tasting session where you can sample the local varieties.
Arrive in Nuwara Eliya:
Nuwara Eliya, the “City of Lights,” is a cool climate with beautiful valleys, meadows, mountains, and lush greenery. It is often called “Little England.” The town was built by the British to resemble an English village, with colonial architecture like the old Post Office, Hill Club, 18-hole golf course, and horse race course.

Proceed to check into your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 04: Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Nuwara Eliya

Take an enjoyable breakfast at your hotel before leaving for sightseeing.

Gayathri Pedam

Gayathri Pedam is believed to be the place where Meghanath, the son of King Ravana, performed penance and prayers to Lord Shiva, as a reward to which he got supernatural powers.

Visit Seetha Amman Temple & Ashoka Vatika:

Explore the Seetha Amman Temple, where the stream flowing from the hills is said to have served Sitadevi during her stay at Ashoka Vatika. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Sitadevi, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. The stream is historically important because it is said to be the place where Sitadevi bathed. Incredibly, footprints believed to belong to Hanuman of different sizes are found along the river, which represents his transformation powers.

Visit Divurumpola Temple:

This temple is supposed to be the place from where Sita has undergone Agni Pariksha, that is, to prove her chastity by fire to Lord Rama. This place is still visited by many villagers to take an oath. It is an abode of rich culture and history. Transfer to Ella

Continue your journey to Ella, a small village in the mountains near Bandarawela. This area is associated with local legends from the Ramayana, particularly where Ravana is said to have hidden Sita. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Ravana Cave, located at the base of the stunning Ravana Ella Waterfall.

Visit Ravana Cave:

Ravana Cave is believed to be where King Ravana imprisoned Sita. Hidden by the thick forest earlier, the cave is today easily accessible. It is 1370 meters above sea level. Human activity here dates back to as early as 25,000 years according to archaeology studies. The Ravana Cave is close to the Ravana Ella Falls. The place is of significant history and culture.

Ravana Waterfall:

Marvel at the Ravana Waterfall, which cascades 82 feet from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. The falls are said to resemble an areca flower during the wet season, but in the dry season, it is reduced. It forms part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and gives a breathtaking view in its surroundings.

Explore Nuwara Eliya City:

Back to Nuwara Eliya for an ambling stroll around this town, once the favorite retreat for holiday-making British in the 19th and early 20th century. Enjoy the views of quaint little cottages, villas, and mansions. And, of course, post a card at the very red-bricked Post Office. Relax in Queen Victoria Park or along the shores of Lake Gregory, both great spots for a peaceful break. Return to your hotel and relax after a day of exploration. Overnight at your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 05: Nuwara Eliya – Colombo

Breakfast at your hotel then drive to Colombo.

Kelaniya Temple

After the death of King Ravana, his brother Vibeeshana was crowned as the King of Lanka by Lakshmana at Kelaniya Temple. The temple features beautiful murals depicting the crowning of Vibeeshana, adding cultural and historical significance to your visit.

Explore the City of Colombo:

City tour of Colombo: Start by driving through the commercial hubs and tree-lined residential neighborhoods of Cinnamon Gardens. Major attractions are:

• Fort: Former British administrative center and military garrison.
• Sea Street: Also known as the Goldsmiths’ quarters, in the heart of Pettah, Colombo’s bustling bazaar area.
• Dutch Church of Wolfendhal: The oldest church in Colombo, dating back to 1749.
• BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall): A prominent landmark in Colombo.
• Avukana Buddha Replica: A replica of the famous Buddha statue.
• Independence Square: A symbol of Sri Lanka’s independence.

Visit Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple:

This unique temple is the only one in the world that has a chariot for Anjaneyar (Hanuman). It holds cultural importance in both South and North India, where Hanuman is referred to as Anjaneyar in South India, due to his mother, Anjan, giving him this name.

Evening Shopping in Colombo:

Go to Galle Face Green, a 5-hectare open space, which is the place of both tourist and locals gathering. Having admired the view, go ahead to visit some of Colombo’s shopping best spots including:

• Cotton Collection, House of Fashion, and Odel: Stylish clothing places and good sources of souvenirs with Sri Lankan flavor.
• Beverly Street, Noritake Showroom, Barefoot, Laksala, One Galle Face, and Colombo City Center: Explore diverse shopping options ranging from local handicrafts to high-end retail.

Check into your hotel in Colombo and unwind after a day of exploration.Overnight stay at your hotel in Colombo.

Day 06: Colombo – Airport

Enjoy a final delicious breakfast at your hotel before checking out.

Transfer to the Airport: After having your breakfast, you will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight back home. The journey to the airport takes about 1 hour.

End of Tour: As you depart, take with you the cherished memories of your incredible journey through Sri Lanka, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic landmarks. Safe travels and hope to see you again soon!