UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour in Sri Lanka
UNESCO’s World Heritage Site List includes eight unique attractions in Sri Lanka that are considered part of the world’s heritage and should be safeguarded. These include the remains of Anuradhapura, which existed from the 5th century BC to the 10th century; the remnants of the successor kingdom, Polonnaruwa (9th to 14th century); and the spectacular Sigiriya Rock, which became a fortification in the 5th century.
Kandy (the seat of monarchs from the 16th to the 19th centuries) and its venerated temple are also World Heritage sites, as are the Dambulla caverns and temple from the 1st century BC. Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1588, is ranked 200 on the UNESCO list. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour also includes two natural landmarks: the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and the Central Highlands (Peak Wilderness, Horton Plains, and the Knuckles Conservation Forest.)
Boasting the pride of Sri Lanka, The UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour can be tailored according to your preference and shuffled around as you wish.
Main UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a SnapShot
Anuradhapura Ancient City
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
Sigiriya Lions Rock Fortress
Dambulla Caves Temple
Sacred City of Kandy
Central Highlands
Sinharaja Rain Forest
Galle Dutch Fort and Old Town
1
BIA to Negombo
- Airport Pickup & Transfer to Negombo
- Overnight stay in Negombo
2
Negombo to Anuradhapura
- Transfer to Anuradhapura
- Explore Anuradhapura Ancient City by Bicycles
- Overnight stay in Anuradhapura
3
Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa to Dambulla
- Transfer to Polonnaruwa
- Explore Polonnaruwa Ancient City by Bicycles
- Heading towards Dambulla
- Evening explore Dambulla Caves Temple
- Overnight stay in Dambulla
4
Dambulla to Kandy
- Morning Explore Sigiriya Lions Rock Fortress
- Transfer to Kandy
- Explore the Sacred City of Kandy including the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Overnight stay in Kandy
5
Kandy
- Explore the Knuckles Mountain Range
- Overnight stay in Kandy
6
Kandy to Nuwaraeliya
- Transfer to Nuwaraeliya
- En-route sightseeing of Ramboda Water Falls
- Visit Pedro Tea Factory and Enjoy the Tea Plucking Experience
- Overnight stay in Nuwaraeliya
7
Nuwaraeliya
- Morning visit Horton Plains and World’s End (A hiking tour around 9.5km)
- Rest of the Day Relaxing
- Overnight stay in Nuwaraeliya
8
Nuwaraeliya to Ella to Udawalawa
- Optional – The Most Scenic Train Journey from Nanu Oya to Ella
- Transfer to Udawalawa
- En-route sightseeing of Ravana Water Falls
- Overnight stay in Udawalawa
9
Udawalawa to Sinharaja
- Morning Jeep Safari in Udawalawa National Park
- Transfer towards Sinharaja
- Overnight stay in Sinharaja
10
Sinharaja
- Explore Sinharaja Rain Forest with Naturalist
- Overnight stay in Sinharaja
11
Sinharaja to Galle
- Transfer to Galle
- Explore Galle Dutch Fort & Old Town
- Overnight stay in Galle
12
Galle
- Leisure Day
- Overnight stay in Galle
13
Galle
- Leisure Day
- Overnight stay in Galle
14
Galle to BIA
- Airport Transfer
Journey Highlights
- Trip Length: 14 Days
- Taking a Bicycle Tour around Polonnaruwa
- Watching the vistas from Lions Rock
- Strolling around Kandy City
- On the night train in Sinharaja Rainforest
- A Bicycle tour around the Anuradhapura Kingdom
- A Herbal Massage after climbing Sigiriya
- The Sinharaja Night Trail
- Dambulla Caves Temple
Places you will stay
Sinharaja
Insightful Tips
- Sunscreen is a must when you are in the Cultural Triangle
- Bring clothes suitable for a hot & also cooler weather
- Carry a hat with you, this will come in handy
- Bring Leech socks for when you are in Knuckles
FAQ
How long does it take to climb up & down Sigiriya?
Approximately around 2 hrs but depends from person to person
What do you mean by special Guides for UNESCO Sites?
Special guides will be arranged by Blue Lanka Tours for every UNESCO site except for Galle. Special UNESCO site guides are knowledgeable in the specific UNESCO site and impart all related information and knowledge to clients.
How is the climate in Sinharaja?
It’s mostly chilled and could be wet.
Is the Sinharaja Night Trail a guided excursion?
Yes, It is guided by an expert naturalist.