Vesak is Sri Lanka’s most significant Buddhist festival, celebrated with grandeur across the country. Marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha, Vesak is a time of devotion, reflection, and community spirit. During this festival, the streets of Colombo and Kandy transform into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights, lanterns, and artistic displays. Homes, temples, and public spaces are adorned with colorful Vesak lanterns (Vesak koodu), symbolizing enlightenment. Giant illuminated structures called Vesak pandals (thoran) narrate stories from Buddha’s life through intricate light displays and artistic illustrations. A heartwarming tradition during Vesak is Dansal, where locals set up free food stalls to offer meals and refreshments to passersby as an act of generosity and merit-making. Visitors can enjoy everything from rice and curry to sweet treats like ice cream. The festival creates an atmosphere of peace and unity, as families, devotees, and tourists alike join in the celebrations, walking through decorated streets, listening to Buddhist hymns, and embracing the essence of compassion and selflessness.
On arrival in Sri Lanka you will be met and assisted by Airport Representative, and will direct you to your guide who will transfer you to Colombo; with amazing cuisine and luxury hotels, Colombo has been earning itself a well-deserved reputation as a top destination for international travelers.
Colombo is a city with a rich history. Known the Greeks, Arabs, and Chinese for over 2000 years because of its natural harbour and as a centre of trade, it was colonized by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and then the British between 1505 and 1948. Each colonial power left a distinctive mark and contributed greatly to the character of the city.
Please note normal check-in time is @2pm at all the hotels
On arrival check into the hotel and relax
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Colombo
Experience: City Tour of Colombo
Today, After breakfast, you will proceed to explore the City of Colombo in the morning to catch a glimps of the preparation & what the city looks like before the sun sets and the splendorous lights start to illuminate every corner.
Your chauffeur guide will take you through the city and its many sights including a visit to the Lotus Tower which is as high as 350 meters (External visit only). It is a transmission hub that focuses on improving the broadcast quality and deliver clear transmission communication. Head next to Independence Square, the location where Sri Lanka proclaimed its independence from British rule in 1948. Drive past the Galle Face Green. Visit the Old Parliament (External visit only) Building which is reminiscent of the New-baroque architectural style. Make a stop at Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo.
Experience: Lantern Making Experience
In the Afternoon, engage in the art of Lantern Making; this is a cherished tradition symbolizing enlightenment & peace.
You will learn the delicate technique of crafting the intricate & colorful lanterns. This is not only just an art form but it also carries a deep connection with Sri Lanka’s Buddhist Traditions. Nothing speaks to the spirit of Vesak than seeing your creation illuminate in the night swaying to the calm winds. You may have the option to keep the Lantern as a memorable keepsake.
Experience: Vesak Sightseeing in Colombo
As night falls, immerse yourself in the breathtaking sights and sounds of Vesak in Colombo, where the city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of light and devotion. Stroll through streets illuminated by thousands of glowing Vesak lanterns, each telling a story of peace and enlightenment.
Witness the mesmerizing Vesak pandals (thoran)—massive, intricately lit displays depicting scenes from the life of Buddha. These artistic structures, adorned with colorful lights and narration, bring ancient Buddhist tales to life in a captivating way.
No Vesak celebration is complete without indulging in Dansal, the heartwarming Sri Lankan tradition of offering free food to all. Savor simple yet delicious meals, from rice and curry to warm bowls of porridge, generously shared by locals as a gesture of kindness. And don’t miss out on a sweet treat—refreshing ice cream, a Vesak favorite, enjoyed by families and visitors alike.
This unforgettable evening blends spirituality, culture, and community, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka’s most cherished festival
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Colombo
After breakfast proceed to Kandy; Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy was the capital of the last Sinhalese Kingdom and enjoys a scenic setting around a lake surrounded by green hills.
Experience: City Tour of Kandy by Tuk Tuk
On reaching explore the Kandy city by Tuk Tuk. Visit the Kandy Lake where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding town. The Kandy Lake was artificially constructed by the last king of Kandy – King Sri Wickrama Rajasingha. The man-made Kandy Lake; known as the Milky Ocean, a lovely centre piece to the town. Kandy Lake was created in 1807 by Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy. Go for a calming walk gazing at the enchanting man-made body of water, absorbing the daily life around.
After that Drive up to the Arthur’s Seat (Kandy View Point), you can observe the beauty of Kandy City. There is a nice metal stage for the viewers. Starting from the right side, you can watch a marvelous picture of the Tooth Relic Temple and Kandy Lake. Udawattakale Forest Reserve is situated just above the Tooth Relic Temple. The picture of Kandy Lake is absolutely beautiful, and that brings much relaxation to your mind. From the distance, you can view Hunnasgiriya Mountain Peak of the Knuckles Mountain Range. As well, you can observe some of the mountain peaks near Kandy City. On the left side, you can see Bahirawakanda Temple with its giant Buddha statue. Simultaneously, you can identify some of the most important buildings in the city.
Thereafter visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic or Sri Dalada Maligawa is a Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. The relic was historically held by Sinhalese kings. The temple of the tooth is a World Heritage Site mainly due to the temple and the relic.
Experience: Kandyan Dancing and Cultural Show
On completion watch a cultural show and embrace the unique dance forms and styles. It plays an important role in Sri Lanka’s culture and is one of the most revered features of the Perahera. Inbred with art and culture from the ancient Kandyan kingdom, Kandy plays an integral part of the country’s cultural identity with Kandyan dancing taking centre stage as the National dance of Sri Lanka. Kandyan dancing originated from the Nayakkar rulers of that era when dancing became regular in the Royal Court. The dance involves spectacular acrobatic movements while drummers walk beside them pounding out heart-thumping tribal rhythmic beats.
Once completed check in at the hotel & relax
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kandy
Today after breakfast, visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) which is a Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka to witness the morning pooja. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. The relic was historically held by Sinhalese kings. The temple of the tooth is a World Heritage Site mainly due to the temple and the relic.
Witness the morning pooja at 9:30 AM; please remember to dress in appropriate clothing in adherence to local customs.
Experience: Vesak Sightseeing in Kandy
As night falls, immerse yourself in the breathtaking sights and sounds of Vesak in Kandy, where the city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of light and devotion. Take a guided stroll through the beautifully decorated streets.
With the rhythmic chants of Buddhist Hymns filling the air and the mesmerizing play of lights reflecting on the serene Kandy Lake, catch a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s most cherished festival in the heart of the country. Don’t forget to indulge in the Dansal & Ice Cream as you did in Colombo!
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kandy
After breakfast proceed to your hotel in ‘Cultural Triangle’.
Commonly referred to as the ‘Cultural Triangle’, the central plains area boasts ruined temples and ancient cities combined with national parks and glistening reservoirs. UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the striking rock fortress of Sigiriya, Dambulla’s Royal Rock Temple and crumbling archaeological treasures of Polonnaruwa. The stunning setting and historic interest means a stay in this region is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka.
Experience: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
On reaching visit Sigiriya Rock. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. A spectacular pillar of rock visible from miles around, geologically Sigiriya is a hardened magma plug of an extinct volcano. Historically, the origins of the remains are disputed and thought to have been either a royal fortress built under the reign of King Kashyapa (477 - 495 AD) or a Buddhist monastery.
The climb up the rock and back down will take from 1.5 hours to 3 hours. (Depending on your fitness, age and the crowds.) There are some 1,200 steps to the top of the rock, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views and most certainly, a sense of accomplishment for completing the climb.
You will pass beautiful frescoes and a sheer ‘mirror wall’ before arriving at the massive stone lion’s paws, which lend the rock its nickname ‘Lion Rock’. The old stairway to the top led through the mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of the massive proportions of the head. The summit, covering an area of 1.6 hectares, was originally completely covered by buildings, but only remains of the royal citadel can be seen today.
Once completed check in to your hotel & relax.
Today; After breakfast, proceed to Mihintale. Visit the ancient remains of Mihintale, a sacred place which is regarded as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The rock is dotted with shrines and rock dwellings. A grand stairway of 1840 steps made of granite slabs, 5 meters wide leads to the summit with its splendid views of the surrounding countryside.
According to legend, it was at Mihintale – literally “Mahinda’s Hill” – that the Indian missionary Mahinda, met and converted King Devanampiyatissa in 247 BC, establishing Buddhism as the island’s state religion. Mahinda was the son of the great Mauryan emperor Asoka, sent by his father to bring word of the Buddha’s teachings to Sri Lanka. Buddhism was immediately embraced with fervour by the Sinhalese people and soon became firmly established in the island – unlike in India, its birthplace, where it would subsequently fall into terminal decline.
Experience: Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Afterwards, explore the sacred ancient city of Anuradhapura; which was founded in the 04th century B.C a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. It has the largest number of ancient monuments of the great Sinhala civilization which flourished in this region.
Once completed, head back to your accommodation.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Sigiriya
After breakfast visit the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa and take a cycling tour through it.
It is one of the better kept ruins of ancient Ceylon - the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa, which was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa history extended 1055 AC – 1215 AC. King Parakramapandu is the last king of the Polonnaruwa kingdom and again South Indian king Kalinga Maga invaded Polonnaruwa.
You will cycle in the Polonnaruwa with the guide and he will give you completely demonstration about the all buildings, statues, cultural values and variance with other kingdoms. The most important places to see in Polonnaruwa are Royal Palace, Audience Hall, Swimming Pool, Sacred Quadrangle, Pabalu Vehera, Rankot Vihara, Kiri Vihara Dageba, Lankatilaka Buddha statue and Gal Vihara Buddha Statutes.
Observing the century-old ruins of the ancient city through a bicycle tour adds the exotic factor. Cycle through the majestic ruins, then to the charming Parakrama Samudra, it’s never-ending soul satisfaction. When you are cycling, the breeze greets you, and you can get closer to the kingdom, resulting in more pleasure.
Experience: Minneriya National Park
In the afternoon commence a jeep safari in the Minneriya National Park by private jeep accompanied by a tracker.
Located between Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa the 8890 hectares of Minneriya National Park is an ideal eco-tourism location in Sri Lanka. The park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub areas.
However, the central feature of the park is the ancient man-made lake, Minneriya Tank -built in 3rd century AD by King Mahasena. During the dry season this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants that come to bathe and graze on the grass as well as the huge flocks of birds (cormorants and painted storks to name but a few) that come to fish in the shallow waters.
Making your way through the park, you will see elephants, Spotted Deer and also the Sambar, which is a deer with no spots and an apt scientific name, carves unicolor.
Depending on the movement of the elephants and the weather you may visit the nearby Kaudulla National Park or Eco Park instead.
Upon completion head back to your accommodation.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Sigiriya
Today, after breakfast, you will be transferred you to Negombo; which has developed into a bustling modern town with a handful of reminders of its colonial past. The wide golden sand beach is dotted with fishing boats and the inland resort road offers a selection of restaurants.
Situated close to the international airport, it makes a convenient rest stop before heading inland to explore or before an onward flight.
Experience: Boat Ride on the Lagoon – Gin Oya
In the afternoon indulge in a boat ride on the Lagoon – Gin Oya in Negombo. Only a few kilometres north of Negombo hotel suburbs, there is a quite charming stretch of the tropical island coastline, namely near the river mouth of the Maha Oya. It marks the northern border of the municipality of Negombo.
Your trip starts from the Dutch Canal, also known as the Hamilton Canal, is a fascinating waterway which functioned as a supply route to the Dutch administration during the time of colonization. Today, the renovated Canal features a suspension bridge for pedestrians designed like a castle tower and boats to hitch rides on.
The boat ride runs through Waikkal presents visitors a glance at bird life, essentially comprising waders, stunning kingfishers, rare pied kingfishers, bee-eaters, Brahminy kites, etc.
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