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North Central Province
Archaeology

Archaeology

Our most recommended North Central Province Archaeology

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

1. From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

Depart Colombo and travel by a shared vehicle, in a small group, to the city of Sigiriya, and head directly to Sigiriya Rock on arrival. Gaze in awe at the massive column of rock that, according to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle The Culavamsa, was selected by King Kassyapa as the site of his new capital. Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress before getting a break for lunch at your own expense. Then, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region, such as wood carving and batik textiles, with time to purchase souvenirs before departing. Start the journey back towards Colombo via Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings of vivid colors and different shapes, painted from around the 2nd century B.C. up to the 18th-century Kandyan era. Optionally Can be done the Wild Life Safari at Eco Park or Kaudulla National Park or Minneriya National park charges for National Park very on Pax Count ( For solo Passengers $ 100 & $ 60 )

Colombo: Colombo Airport (CMB) and Negombo City Transfer

2. Colombo: Colombo Airport (CMB) and Negombo City Transfer

Enjoy a relaxing and comfortable private transfer from Sri Lanka's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to your hotel in Negombo. After landing at the airport, head to the arrivals lobby to meet your driver who will be holding a board with your name on it. If you are unable to locate your driver, a support team is on hand 24/7. Your driver will escort you and your luggage in a comfortable and safe vehicle so all you have to do is sit back and relax during the 1-2 hour journey. Rely on your driver's expertise to travel the safest, most traffic-free route possible. Feel free to let your driver know in case you need to stop for refreshments or emergencies.

Minneriya: Minneriya National Park Private Safari

3. Minneriya: Minneriya National Park Private Safari

With the grace of majestic giants and pristine tropical dry forest settings, Minneriya National Park is a perfect spot to spend a few hours witnessing one of the most astonishing wildlife spectacles on earth.  Renowned as a prominent stopover for wandering elephants searching for food during the August and September the dry season, Minneriya National Park attracts up to 300 giants from the neighboring national parks. Enjoy the flicker of monkeys swinging through the branches and search the forest for the sight of majestic elephants, leopards, sloth bears, mongooses, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, porcupine and Indian pangolins. Do not miss out on this quintessential safari destination in a strikingly beautiful forest.

From Negombo: Private Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya Tour

4. From Negombo: Private Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya Tour

Experience the ultimate Sri Lankan adventure on a tour of Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Minneriya National Park from Negombo. Travel in a climate-controlled vehicle with a licensed guide while exploring ancient sites and immersing yourself in the country's natural beauty. Your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 5th century A.D. Enjoy stunning views as you hike to the top of the fortress, passing through ancient frescoes and mirror walls along the way. Next, arrive at the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses numerous statues and paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha and his teachings. Admire the serene beauty of these sacred caves and learn about the ancient religious beliefs and practices of Sri Lanka. The tour culminates at the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy an open-air 4x4 Jeep safari in search of elephants, the park's most intriguing inhabitants. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants and observe the park's other wildlife, including a plethora of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The picturesque landscape of the national park includes a beautiful lake surrounded by jungle, making this stop a wonderful opportunity to relax and unwind amidst the breathtaking nature of Sri Lanka. Fully soak in Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage, history, and diverse wildlife before the end of your trip.

Minneriya National Park Safari in a 4x4 Vehicle

5. Minneriya National Park Safari in a 4x4 Vehicle

Explore pristine tropical dry forest settings on a guided safari through Minneriya National Park with hotel pickup and drop-off from Habarana included. See wandering elephants, spot swinging monkeys, and enjoy a view of the Minneriya reservoir. Meet your driver at your hotel and head to the Minneriya National Park. Enter the forest, and enjoy the flicker of monkeys swinging through branches. As you drive through the grassland, keep an eye out for the giant elephants who have wandered over in search of food from neighboring national parks. Search the woods for an array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, mongooses, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, porcupines, and Indian pangolins. Stop for a stunning view of the Minneriya reservoir before returning to your hotel.

Sri Lanka: Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour in a 4WD Jeep

6. Sri Lanka: Wilpattu National Park Safari Tour in a 4WD Jeep

After being picked up from your hotel in the Wilpattu area or Park Entrance you will enter Wilpattu National Park to explore the Willus, light forests, scrubs, grasslands, lagoons, and magnificent range of animals. With your private 4WD Jeep and expert guide, the ‘Golden Hours’ of the day will be used to focus on leopard spotting, either the first 2 hours or the last 2 hours of the day. Throughout this safari, you will search for the world’s most concentrated number of leopards, sloth bears, and elephants, as your knowledgable guide and driver expertly navigates the vast area and roads. The morning tour will begin at 5.30am from your hotel, to take in sunrise as the park opens at 6am. Whilst the afternoon option allows you to explore from 2pm until sunset when the park closes at 6pm. Leopards, elephants, water buffalo, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles can all be found in this rich environment.

Colombo: 3-Day Cultural Triangle 5 UNESCO Heritage Site Tour

7. Colombo: 3-Day Cultural Triangle 5 UNESCO Heritage Site Tour

Day 1 Explore the important historical monuments in Sri Lanka on this 3 days tour while visiting ancient Buddhist temples, museums, palaces, gardens, Buddha statues, and many more. Embark on an exciting and very rare 3-day cultural tour of Sri Lanka's holiest, the Cultural Triangle. Explore 5 UNESCO-listed sites where important historical monuments are to be found. Visit cultural triangle cities including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy. Stay overnight at a hotel in Sigiriya between private-guided sightseeing ventures. Get picked up in Colombo and head to your hotel in Sigiriya via Anuradhapura, the oldest city in Sri Lanka. The first activity of the 3 days tour is the hop-on hop-off city tour of the historical city of Anuradhapura. The tour covers a large number of historical places such as Buddhist temples, dagobas, palaces, gardens, and other remarkable structures in the city testify to the grandeur of ancient civilization. The city tour also includes the most sacred 8 Buddhist sites in the city, better known as "Atamasthana", Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, and Lankarama. Later in the day settle in for a good night's sleep at your hotel in Sigiriya. Day 2 After breakfast leave for the Sigiriya rock fortress, home to one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. Your Sigiriya tour starts early morning, allowing you to escape the mid-day heat. Climb the rock and reach the summit to see the site of the King's palace, swimming pool, and king's throne. Soak up in the breathtaking scenery from the top of the pinnacle. Later drive to Polonnaruwa and see the dozens of ancient temples, Buddha statues, and many ancient structures built by ancient Kings. Witness massive stone-cut Buddha statues, dagobas, an audience hall, and much more at the cultural museum of Polonnaruwa. Later in the day Minneriya safari on an open jeep. Enhance your experience with a wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park. Spot wild elephants, bears, wild boar, deer, buffalo, monkeys, and maybe even a leopard. Stay overnight in Sigiriya. Day 3 Depart early for Colombo via Kandy, visiting a spice/herbal garden en route. In Matale, spices and herbs are used for Sri Lankan cuisine and medicine. Hear about this history as you explore the site with your guide. Later visit Dambulla Golden Temple and Tooth Relic Temple are sure to add another level of sacrosanctity to your experience. Dambulla hosts more than 150 Buddha statues and a large number of ancient murals. The next stop will be Kandy city. Today Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most important cities because of the presence of the temple of the sacred tooth of the Buddha. This is the most visited Buddhist temple on the island, frequented by thousands of devotees every day. Return to your hotel in Colombo.

Kaudulla National Park Half Day Sri Lanka Jeep Safari

8. Kaudulla National Park Half Day Sri Lanka Jeep Safari

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the heart of Sri Lanka's wild landscapes with our Kaudulla National Park Safari. This unforgettable experience begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in the enchanting areas of Dambulla, Kandalama, Sigiriya, or Habarana. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide will ensure your journey is comfortable and informative from start to finish. As you set off towards Kaudulla National Park, you'll receive complimentary water bottles to keep you refreshed throughout the day. The park, located in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, promises an awe-inspiring encounter with the region's diverse and captivating wildlife. The main highlight of this safari is the spectacular Elephant Gathering, a mesmerizing phenomenon that occurs during the dry season when large herds of elephants congregate around the Kaudulla Tank. Witness these majestic giants in their natural habitat, an experience that is sure to leave you in awe. However, the wonders of Kaudulla extend far beyond the elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of other animals that call this lush jungle home, including crocodiles basking in the sun, graceful deer grazing in the meadows, majestic eagles soaring high above, mischievous monkeys swinging through the trees, and elusive water monitors gliding through the waterways. The park is also a bird lover's paradise, with a plethora of colorful avian species filling the skies and trees with their melodious calls. Our safari lasts for approximately three hours, allowing ample time to explore the park's diverse landscapes and encounter its remarkable inhabitants. Our experienced guides are well-versed in the park's ecology and will provide fascinating insights into the behaviors and habitats of the animals you encounter. After an exhilarating journey through Kaudulla National Park, we will safely transport you back to your hotel, ensuring your return is as comfortable and convenient as your arrival. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Sri Lanka's wildlife with our Kaudulla National Park Safari, a journey that promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of this remarkable island nation. #srilankajeepsafari #safarisrilanka #srilankasafari #kaudullanationalpark #kaudullasafari #elephantgathering

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Tour

9. From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Private Full-Day Tour

After pickup from your hotel, travel first to Dhambulla Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the caves, discover a collection of beautifully preserved ancient Buddhist statues and intricate wall paintings. After exploring Dhambulla Golden Cave Temple, the tour proceeds to Sigiriya, also known as the "Lion Rock." Ascend to the top, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Next, head to a local village to experience the traditional Sri Lankan way of life. Meet the locals, learn about their customs, and witness traditional activities like farming and cooking. Finally, visit the Minnariya National Park, famous for its large population of wild elephants and is known as one of the best places in Sri Lanka for elephant sightings. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the park, allowing you to get up close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Wildlife Safari to Kaudulla National Park

10. Wildlife Safari to Kaudulla National Park

Welcome to our immersive and captivating wildlife tour in Kaudulla National Park, a hidden gem of natural beauty and biodiversity that promises an exceptional journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's wilderness. Our tour revolves around an enthralling safari, designed to provide you with an up-close and personal encounter with the remarkable wildlife that calls this park home. Your adventure commences as you step onto our specially outfitted safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced guides who are not only knowledgeable about the park's ecosystem but also deeply passionate about its preservation. As we venture into the heart of Kaudulla National Park, you will be transported into a world of natural wonder and discovery The hallmark of Kaudulla is its awe-inspiring elephant gatherings. Witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as they roam freely through the park's grasslands, socialize, and engage in their daily routines. The sight of these gentle giants, often numbering in the hundreds, is an unforgettable experience that provides insight into their intricate behaviors and social structures. However, Kaudulla's treasures extend well beyond its elephants. Be on the lookout for the elusive and magnificent Sri Lankan leopard, a symbol of the untamed wilderness. The park also hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including graceful deer, agile monkeys, wild boars, and an assortment of mammals and reptiles that contribute to the park's rich biodiversity. For avid bird enthusiasts, Kaudulla offers a paradise of avian wonders. From the regal eagles that soar overhead to the vibrant kingfishers that grace the water's edge, the park is a haven for birdwatching. Our guides, with their extensive knowledge of bird species, will help you identify and appreciate the remarkable diversity of birdlife that thrives within the park. Throughout the safari, our guides will share their expertise on the park's ecology, the importance of conservation efforts, and the delicate harmony that sustains the wildlife and their habitats. As the sun sets over Kaudulla National Park, casting a warm and golden glow over the landscape, you'll carry with you cherished memories of the incredible wildlife encounters and the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world. Join us on this remarkable wildlife tour in Kaudulla National Park and allow the enchantment of nature and the magnificence of the animals to deepen your connection with the wilderness. It's an experience that will kindle your passion for wildlife and the great outdoors, leaving an indelible mark on your heart and mind

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North Central Province

North Central Province

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What people are saying about North Central Province

Aaron was very professional and made sure that we were comfortable throughout the trip, and also stopped at a cafe because we had not had any breakfast before the trip started. He also suggested different places to go to besides the two trips and recommended suggestions for us to do in Colombo. Strongly recommend this trip and Aaron as a tour guide!

Very reliable tour pickup operator. No drama, I been contacted via WhatsApp 1 day before , driver was already at my hotel lobby 15 mnt before the pick up time. Good condition and nice car and the driver are polite and good at communication and everything are clear and reliable. Must book when you are in Colombo

CJ was on time. Speaks good english and knows the area very well. He was very helpful and pleasant. Everything went as planned. Sigiriya is awesome. Prepare yourself for climbing the stairs! Great history in Dumbulla. Recommended.

Had excellent time, tour operators are second to none Driver Chris excellent fit for the job we are lucky to have him as driver and guide Me and my wife thanked Chris thousand times

It was a nice day spent in Sigiriya and Dambulla. Very flexible upon request. Good experience that I recommend