CULTURAL TOURS
Walk the Footsteps of Kings – Discover the Soul of Sri Lanka
Cultural Tours
Embrace the charm of ancient capitals, golden temples, and time-honored traditions as you immerse yourself in the heart of Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture. This journey will take you from royal palaces and sacred relics to vibrant village life and traditional performances – a living museum waiting to be explored.
CULTURAL ESSENCE – 7 Days / 6 Nights
Day 1 – Arrival / Colombo to Kandy (via Pinnawala)
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of The Treasure Finders Travels. Begin your journey into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage by heading to the cultural capital, Kandy.
On the way, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – a heartwarming sanctuary that houses orphaned and injured elephants. Watch them bathe in the river and feed, while learning about their rescue stories and conservation efforts. It's a rare chance to see elephants up close in a safe and ethical setting.
Later, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Kandy. This revered Buddhist temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, enshrined since the 4th century AD. Its golden rooftops, intricate carvings, and daily puja rituals offer a spiritual experience unlike any other.
Overnight Stay at Amaya Hills Kandy
Located high in the hills above Kandy, this elegant hotel provides stunning views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and boasts traditional Kandyan architecture combined with modern luxury.
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Day 02 :Journey to Nuwara Eliya via Ramboda
After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 species of plants and the largest orchid collection in Asia. Walk among century-old trees and spice groves once reserved for Kandyan royalty.
Spend the afternoon on a Kandy city tour, visiting the Kandy Lake, the bustling market, and the Bahirawakanda Buddha statue that offers sweeping views of the city.
In the evening, enjoy a Kandyan Cultural Dance Performance featuring rhythmic drumming, fire-walking, and graceful traditional dances that reflect centuries of Sri Lankan heritage.
Overnight Stay at Amaya Hills Kandy
Located high in the hills above Kandy, this elegant hotel provides stunning views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and boasts traditional Kandyan architecture combined with modern luxury.
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Day 03 :Kandy to Dambulla via Matale
After breakfast, travel toward Dambulla. En route, visit a Spice Garden in Matale, where you'll see, smell, and touch aromatic herbs like cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. Learn about Ayurvedic uses and even try a head and shoulder herbal massage.
Continue to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a 1st-century BC masterpiece carved into a massive rock over 500 feet tall. Discover 5 mystical cave sanctuaries with over 150 life-sized Buddha statues, painted ceilings, and serene stupas. It's a breathtaking mix of art, faith, and natural wonder.
Overnight Stay at Heritance Kandalama
Heritance Kandalama is a renowned luxury hotel located near Dambulla, Sri Lanka, famous for its stunning design and eco-friendly architecture.
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Day 04: Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Village Experience
After breakfast, climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, this UNESCO-listed citadel rises 660 feet into the sky. Marvel at ancient frescoes of the Sigiriya maidens, explore water gardens, and gaze from the summit over endless greenery.
Later, experience authentic rural life with the Hiriwadunna Village Tour. Ride a bullock cart through rice fields, paddle across a lake on a catamaran, and enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal on a lotus leaf – all in a peaceful village setting.
Overnight Stay at The Treasure - Habarana
The Treasure Finders proudly owns and manages this private villa - perfectly located in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. The villa is a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, offering comfort, privacy, and easy access to some of the country’s most iconic attractions like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park.
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Day 05: Explore Ancient Polonnaruwa
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Today, visit Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cycle through the well-preserved ruins of ancient palaces, bathing tanks, and colossal stone Buddhas at Gal Vihara. Highlights include the Royal Palace, Vatadage (circular relic house), and the Parakrama Samudraya – a man-made lake that still irrigates the region.
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Polonnaruwa showcases the architectural brilliance and disciplined urban planning of a bygone kingdom.
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Day 6 – Dambulla to Colombo via Kurunegala
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After breakfast, begin your return to Colombo. En route, stop in Kurunegala, a royal capital in the 13th century surrounded by elephant-shaped rocky hills. Visit the towering Samadhi Buddha statue which offers peaceful panoramic views over the plains.
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Upon arriving in Colombo, enjoy a brief city tour exploring landmarks such as the Independence Memorial Hall, Gangaramaya Temple, and the Old Dutch Hospital shopping precinct.
Overnight Stay at Galle Face Hotel - Colombo
Galle Face Hotel in Colombo is a historic and iconic hotel, renowned for its colonial architecture and prime location along the Galle Face Green promenade. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s oldest hotels, offering luxury accommodations, fine dining, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean
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Day 7 – Departure from Colombo
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Enjoy your breakfast and reflect on the week’s journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural soul before being transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure.
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