Negombo

Approximately 37 km north of Colombo at the mouth of the Negombo lagoon. The economy of this town is based on tourism and its centuries-old fishing industry. The name Negombo was first used by the Portuguese and was a trading port during the Portuguese and Dutch colonization. Negombo offers some of the best beaches on the West coast of Sri Lanka and draws tourists who stop over on their way to or from the airport.

Yapahuwa

Yapahuwa was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. The citadel of Yapahuwa lying midway between Kurunagala and Anuradhapura was built around a huge granite rock rising abruptly almost a hundred meters above the surrounding lowlands. In 1272, King Bhuvenakabahu transferred the capital from Polonnaruwa to Yapahuwa in the face of Dravidian invasions from South India, bringing the Sacred Tooth Relic with him. Following the death of King Bhuvenakabahu in 1284, the Pandyans of South India invaded Sri Lanka once again, and succeeded in capturing Sacred Tooth Relic. Following its capture, Yapahuwa was largely abandoned and inhabited by Buddhist monks and religious ascetics.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-known preserved ruins of ancient Lanka civilization. The city, now a UNESCO ''World Heritage Site'' and situated in Northern Sri Lanka and the capital of the North Central Province. Established in 4th century B.C it was the first capital of Sri Lanka and remained until 8th century A.D. ''THE SACRED BO TREE'' grown a sapling under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment is the oldest living tree in the documented history. The city is considered very sacred to Buddhists and home to some of the largest DAGABOS in Sri Lanka.
Three main monasteries Mahavihara, Abayagiriya, Jetawanarama was started with Royal patronage. Those monastery and King helped to develop civilians’ lifestyle, economy and health. According to ''MAHAWANSA'', Anuradhapura kingdom was self-sufficient. Most of were engaged in Agriculture, life was very simple and less worries

Mihintale

Mihintale is 11 km east of Anuradhpura and known as the ''Cradle of Buddhism'' A majestic flight of 1840 granite steps, 5 meters wide lead you to the summit with a splendid view of surrounding countryside. An atmosphere of serenity and peace lingers by the chants of the devotees and to date it is venerated daily. The Poson Full Moon Poya draws hundreds of Buddhists to commemorate the visit of Arahath Mahinda the great Buddhist missionary who preached the Buddhist doctrine to King Devanampiyatissa.

Aukana Buddha Statue

Visit the Aukana Buddha Statue – A remarkable stone statue of the Buddha 38ft. 10 inches in height and its image house are among the ancient remains at Aukana near the town Kalawewa. The statue is believed to be the work of King Dhatusena during the 5th Century B.C and today considered as one of the most historical images of the Island.

>Optional: Safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was mediaeval capital of Sri Lanka, and today it is one of the most beautiful centers of our cultural heritage. Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as capital of the island now called Sri Lanka at the end of the 10th century. The Indian Chola Dynasty ruled the island at that moment but after they were driven out Polonnaruwa remained the capital. The city had its cultural heyday under the leadership of King Parakramabahu 1 in the 12th century, the buildings, parks and the large tank date from this period. Visit the ancient ruins and the Gal Vihara Complex, where three very large Buddha statues are carved out of a single rock.

Sigiriya

Climb the 5th century Sigriya Rock Fortress – which is a UNESCO ''World Heritage Site'', built by 'King Kashyapa (477-495 AD)'. The ''Lion Rock'' is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 meters from the green scrub jungle, Its perhaps the most memorable place for visitors to Sri Lanka. The site was known from ancient times as a hermitage for Buddhist monks. A well-planned monastic complex includes caved temples, bathing pools, lovely ponds and Asia's oldest surviving landscaped gardens. Today Sigiriya is famous for its ''Frescos Painted'' in the pocket of the rock. The ''Lion Stairway’’, the ''Mirror Wall'' and the ''Water Gardens'' are the other highlights of Sigiriya.

Dambulla Rock Cave Temple

Visit Dambulla rock Cave temple also known as the Golden temple of Dambulla. Dambulla rock temple was built by 'King Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C and it is UNESCO ''World Heritage Site''. Comprised of 05 caves and a picturesque facade carved into the side of a steep rock face, the Dambulla Cave Temple houses ancient statues and paintings depicting Lord Buddha and his life. This is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.

Kandy

Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Kandy” conjures visions of splendour and magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. Evening visiting the Kandyan culture show.

Kandyan Culture Show

Witness the Kandyan Dance a pageant of traditional Sri Lankan dance that flourished in the hill country during ancient times. The dancers are attired in frilled costumes with glistening head-dresses and breastplates. They skip and whirl to the beat of the drums executing astonishing acrobatics in mid-air. The highlight of the performance is the fire-walking at the end of the pageant.

Gadaladeniya, Lankathilaka, Embekke temple

Gadaladeniya temple, Lankathilaka temple and Embekke temple are three temples dedicated to the teaching of Buddha. These are some of the most important places for tourist, who visit the city of Kandy during their Sri Lanka road trip. These three temples are considered as 3 major important Buddhist temples with historical background. The temples believed to be originated during the Gampola period. The temples showcase the highly advanced construction methods of the ancient craftsmen of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the temples are decorated with intricate floral designs and wood carvings. Especially the Embekke Devala is considered as a masterpiece of Ancient artisans.

Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa)

Visit the ''Dalada Maligawa'' – where the sacred Tooth Relic is placed and preserved is undoubtedly the greatest attraction of the city. It is one of the most sacred places for Buddhists all over the world. Watch the traditional rituals performed daily by the religious dignitaries of the temple in keeping with the cultural heritage of county. Next you will visit the ''Raja Wasala'' – the Royal Palace complex adjoining the Temple of Tooth where the Council Chamber known as the ''Magul Maduwa'' is seen. This is a unique wooden pillared hall dating back to 1784 and the Devale complexes are housed inside.

Colombo

Colombo is the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka and is a hub for visiting beaches in the south of the island. Its history involves successive rulings by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, and it was a major port on the eastwest trade routes during that era. This ancient heritage reflects on the city today in terms of its architecture consisting of colonial buildings as well as high rise skyscrapers and shopping malls. The cosmopolitan side of Colombo includes stylish theatres, cinemas, restaurants, cafes, museums and galleries. Modern day Colombo is emerging rapidly, and a Colombo city tour is a worthy item on your agenda either on the start or finish to your Sri Lankan tour.

Kelaniya Rajamaha Viaharaya

A Buddhist Temple with an astounding view as it is set on an elevated surface overlooking the Kelani River. Being one of the many temples in the country, this one stands out due to its exquisite sculpture. With a 2500year-old history, it is a much-respected temple by Sri Lankan citizens.

Gangarama Temple

Gangaramaya is a Buddhist temple with a fusion of modern architecture and a touch of culture. Being a popular landmark of the city, this complex is built on a lake and consists of a temple, a conference hall for Buddhist monks and a vocational training institute.