You will be met at the airport by our representative and introduced to your chauffeur guide who will be accompanying you on your tour.
Transfer to Kegalle.
The drive time is approximately 3.5 hours to Anuradhapura.
Panala – Anuradhapura 70km.
After breakfast we start riding out from the hotel along B roads towards the Ancient city region of the island. These wending flat roads are a joy to cycle along, experiencing rural Sri Lanka that most tourist seldom see, the simplicity of everyday life and friendly smiles are the high lights of this ride. We end the ride after 70km with a picnic lunch before transferring 2hrs to Ulagala Resort with the afternoon free to relax and enjoy this tranquil resort and spa .
Tour Anuradhapura ruins 40km.
After breakfast we ride to 28km to Anuradhapura the first capital of Sri Lanka and grandest of all the ancient cities. We cycle tour the ruins starting at the Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bo-Tree) brought as a sapling from the original tree under which Prince Siddhartha (Buddha) attained enlightenment over 2,200 years ago and is the oldest historically documented tree in the world. The Brazen Palace (2nd century B.C), has 1600 stone columns and is all that left of a magnificent multi-storied Royal residence. Ruwanweliseya (2nd century B.C) is the most famous of all the giant Dagobas (stupas), and the enchanting Elephant pond and ''Samadhi'' Buddha statue (4th century AD) is one of the most admired Buddha statues, depicting the Buddha in a state of ''Samadhi'' or deep meditation. We have lunch at the former British governor’s house returning late afternoon to the hotel.
Transfer from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya. Transfer time is 1.5 Hours
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
This is one of the most amazing historical sites of Sri Lanka and a must visit. However, take heed, the climb to the top (about 1200 steps)takes about 1-1/2 hours. Not suitable for those who are unfit or cannot deal with heights. Take a moment to read our expert tips.
Sigiriya (Lion Rock) Referred by locals as the Eighth Wonder of the World this ancient palace and fortress complex has significant archaeological importance and attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is probably the most visited tourist destination of Sri Lanka. Sigiriya rock plateau, formed from magma of an extinct volcano, is 200 meters higher than the surrounding jungles. Its view astonishes the visitors with the unique harmony between the nature and human imagination. The fortress complex includes remnants of a ruined palace, surrounded by an extensive network of fortifications, vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains. In the 3th century BC the rocky plateau of Sigiriya served as a monastery. In the second half of the 5th century King Kasyapa decided to construct a royal residence here. After his death Sigiriya again became a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century, when it was abandoned. The main entrance is located in the northern side of the rock. It was designed in the form of a huge stone lion, whose feet have survived up to today but the upper parts of the body were destroyed. The western wall of Sigiriya was almost entirely covered by frescoes, created during the reign of Kasyapa. Eighteen frescoes have survived to this day. The frescoes are depicting nude females and are considered to be either the portraits of Kasyapa’s wives and concubines or priestess performing religious rituals. One of the most striking features of Sigiriya is its Mirror wall.
For those who are not comfortable with heights or have problems climbing we suggest the gardens of Sigiriya which are among st the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. They are located in the western part of the rock with bridges, fountains, as well as surface and underground water pumps.
