Spirit of Sri Lanka

Unearth history and glance into what life in a 16th century port city would have been like as you experience the legends and myths of Galle Fort as you amble around. There are many archaeological artefacts on display at the Maritime Museum, including 800 year old items salvaged from shipwrecks. Witness how today’s locals live within this colossal Dutch fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site. There is an abundance of chic and boutique shops, where you can purchase gems, handmade lace and antiques. Unwind in pretty garden and terrace cafés, and admire the coastal beds of pure blue ocean and coral reefs.

Enjoy trekking into the UNESCO World Heritage Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve in Sri Lanka.

Discover Jaffna and its local environs highlights! Venture to Nagadeepa Temple, located on small island (which is also known as Nainativu). The island is just 56 kms from India and holds historical records of Buddha’s second visit to Sri Lanka almost 3,000 years ago! Allegedly, the Buddha came to this location after a vision inspired him to settle a regal family feud over a gem studded throne. Head to the Keerimalai fresh water springs, located in Jaffna’s suburbs, which is known locally as a bottomless well. The local Hindu people believe that this well has miraculous powers. You will then visit Jaffna Library, which is reputedly one of South Asia’s best, with its collection of 100,000 priceless books and centuries old manuscripts. In the early evening, wander around the local market, before visiting Point Pedro, which is 35 kms away from Jaffna, and an ideal location to watch the sun set. (Full Day Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate as it includes some walking.)

Uncover an ancient world with your tour of what was once a sacred capital city over one thousand years ago. Observe some of the largest bell-shaped dagobas (Buddhist stupas) in the country, made of small sundried bricks. There are also ancient drinking water reservoirs, various sculptures, palaces and temples to explore. Witness the sacred Bo (Bodhi) tree, that was grown from a sapling of the very tree that Lord Buddha sat under when he attained enlightenment 2,5000 years ago. Today it’s recorded as the oldest tree in history! Visit Isurumuniya Vihara, a temple and monastery, where you can admire fascinating stone carvings of lovers, elephants and a royal family. There’s also a reclining Buddha that has been cut from the rock. This culturally-rich is generously surrounded by lakes, paddy fields and undulating rocks.