The Ramayana Trail

Trace the footsteps of epic legends across Sri Lanka’s sacred sites, historic landmarks, and natural wonders, uncovering the stories behind the Ramayana’s timeless tales. This carefully curated journey blends mythology, culture, heritage, and scenic beauty, taking travelers from the island’s northern coast to its southern shores while exploring temples, ancient forts, and natural landscapes associated with the epic.

Legends of Ancient Lanka - 12 Days / 11 Nights

Duration

11 Nights / 12 Days

Theme

 Heritage · History · Culture

Route

Chilaw > Sigiriya > Trincomalee > Kandy > Nuwara Eliya > Ella > Kataragama > Galle > Bentota > Colombo

Day 01 – Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Chilaw / Ramayana Sites / Overnight in Chilaw

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your private guide for a transfer to Chilaw. Visit Punchi Kataragama Temple, Manvari Temple, and Munneshwaram Temple, sacred sites connected to the Ramayana legend. Spend the evening relaxing and reflecting on the epic tales before overnighting in Chilaw.

Day 02 – Sigiriya / Rock Fortress & Cobra Cave / Overnight in Sigiriya
Travel to Sigiriya and explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Cobra Cave, linked to the Ramayana saga. Optional visit to Nilaveli Beach provides a serene coastal interlude. Overnight stay in Sigiriya, immersed in the historic atmosphere of the region.
Day 03 – Trincomalee / Kinniya Hot Water Wells & Thiru Koneshwaram Temple / Overnight in Trincomalee
Drive to Trincomalee and visit the Kinniya Hot Water Wells and Thiru Koneshwaram Temple, sacred Ramayana landmarks. Enjoy local sightseeing in Trincomalee, taking in its coastal charm and cultural sites. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.
Day 04 – Transfer to Kandy / Temple of the Tooth & Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple / Ramboda Waterfall & Tea Plantation / Overnight in Kandy
Depart for Kandy, stopping to visit the Temple of the Tooth and Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple, a Ramayana site. En route, admire the Ramboda Waterfall and explore a tea plantation and factory. Overnight stay in Kandy, surrounded by the hill country’s lush landscapes.

Day 05 – Nuwara Eliya / Ramayana Sites & Botanical Garden / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Drive to Nuwara Eliya and visit Seetha Amman Temple, Asoka Vatika, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Gayathri Temple, all connected to the Ramayana. Explore the scenic highlands and colonial charm of “Little England.” Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 06 – Transfer to Ella / Ramayana Sites & Temples / Overnight in Ella

Journey to Ella and explore Istripura and Konda Kattu Gala, significant Ramayana sites. Visit Divurumpola Temple and Dowa Temple, blending heritage with spiritual insight. Overnight stay in Ella, surrounded by dramatic mountain vistas.

Day 07 – Full Day in Ella / Waterfall, Ravana Cave & Ella Gap / Overnight in Ella

Spend a full day discovering Ella’s natural and mythological highlights, including Ella Waterfall, Ella Ravana Cave, and Ella Gap. Enjoy hiking and photography opportunities, immersing in both the legend and the scenic charm. Overnight in Ella.

Day 08 – Travel to Kataragama / Kataragama Temple / Overnight in Kataragama

Drive to Kataragama and visit the sacred Kataragama Temple (Kadirgamam), a major Ramayana pilgrimage site. Explore the surrounding town and its spiritual atmosphere. Overnight stay in Kataragama.

Day 09 – Galle / Ussangoda Rock / Leisure at the Beach / Overnight in Galle

Travel to Galle and visit Ussangoda Rock, a site tied to Ramayana tales. Enjoy leisure time at the southern coast’s beaches, soaking in the sun and ocean views. Overnight in Galle.

Day 10 – Bentota / Galle Fort, Rumassala Sanjeewani Drops, Turtle Farm & Madu River Safari / Overnight in Bentota

Transfer to Bentota and explore Galle Dutch Fortress, the Rumassala Sanjeewani Drops, Turtle Farm, and enjoy a scenic Madu River Boat Safari. The day combines heritage, legend, and natural beauty. Overnight stay in Bentota.

Day 11 – Colombo / Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple, City Tour & Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya / Overnight in Colombo

Return to Colombo and visit Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple, a Ramayana site. Explore Colombo’s highlights including Independence Memorial Hall, Old Parliament, Galle Face Green, BMICH, and local shopping. Conclude with a visit to Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, another Ramayana landmark. Overnight in Colombo.

Day 12 – Transfer to Colombo Airport / Departure

Enjoy a final morning at leisure before your private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure. Take home memories of Sri Lanka’s sacred landscapes, legendary sites, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation with daily breakfast as per the itinerary
  • Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
  • English-speaking guide for all excursions
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned attractions and Ramayana sites
  • Madu River safari and other optional guided activities included
  • Tea plantation and scenic sightseeing stops

Exclusions

  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, or phone calls
  • Optional activities not listed in inclusions
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Travel insurance or additional services not specified