6 Nights Ramayana Tour Sri Lanka

Day Itinerary: Arrival in Sri Lanka & Kandy Exploration

Morning
- Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport:
- Upon landing, you will be greeted by our representatives who will assist you with your transfer.

- Transfer to Kandy via Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:
- Begin your journey to Kandy with a visit to the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
- Enjoy the scenic drive as you head northwest of Kegalle, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:

1. Overview of the Orphanage:
- Established in 1975 on a sprawling 25-acre coconut estate along the Maha Oya River, this orphanage was created to provide care for abandoned and injured elephants.
- Learn about the conservation efforts being made here and witness how these gentle giants are rehabilitated.

2. Elephant Interactions:
- Depending on timing, observe feeding sessions and watch baby elephants play.
- Take plenty of photos while enjoying this unique experience with one of nature's most magnificent creatures.

Afternoon
- After your visit, continue your journey toward Kandy. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you enter Sri Lanka's hill country.

Check-in at Hotel:
- Arrive at your hotel in Kandy for check-in and some time to relax and freshen up before evening activities.

Evening

1. Visit to Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa):
- In the evening, depart for one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites—the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic believed to be a tooth from Buddha himself.
- Understand its historical significance; it has been central not only religiously but also politically throughout Sri Lankan history since whoever holds it is considered a rightful ruler.

2. Cultural Performance:
- After visiting the temple, enjoy an entertaining cultural performance featuring traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers.
- These performances reflect ancient traditions that were once held before kings during royal ceremonies but saw a decline during British rule; however, they have been revived today!
- Marvel at colourful costumes and rhythmic music that capture Kandyan culture beautifully.

Night
- Following an exciting day filled with exploration and cultural immersion:

Transfer Back to Hotel:
- Return to your hotel after enjoying both spiritual enlightenment at the temple and vibrant local entertainment.

Dinner & Overnight Stay:
- Savor dinner at your hotel or nearby restaurant offering traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Unwind for an overnight stay in Kandy as you prepare for more adventures ahead!

Day Itinerary: Visit to Seetha Kotuwa

Morning
- Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel in Kandy.

- Departure to Seetha Kotuwa: After breakfast, check out and set off for your visit to Seetha Kotuwa, also known as “Sita’s Fort.”

Visit to Seetha Kotuwa:

1. Arriving at Seetha Kotuwa:
- Upon arrival, explore the historical site where it's believed Sita Devi was held captive during her time in Lanka.
- Learn about the significance of this location in epic narratives, particularly its connection with Queen Mandodari's palace.

2. Historical Significance:
- Discover remnants of ancient ruins that hint at a grand civilization that once thrived here.
- The area is rich in legend; it is said that Lankapura—an opulent city adorned with waterfalls and diverse flora—was home to beautiful landscapes and lush gardens surrounding Mandothari's palace.

3. Cultural Insights:
- Gain insights into the local traditions and stories associated with Sita Devi's time here, including how her captivity led her journey through other significant locations like Ashoka Vatika.

4. Exploration & Photography:
- Take time to wander through the ruins, noting any remnants of structures that evoke images from ancient tales.
- Capture beautiful photographs of the landscape adorned by natural beauty typical of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Afternoon/Return Journey

- After exploring Seetha Kotuwa thoroughly and soaking in its history and legends, begin your return journey back to Kandy.

Late Afternoon
- Depending on your schedule or interests, you may have some leisure time upon returning to Kandy before dinner.

Evening
- Enjoy dinner at your hotel or select a nearby restaurant offering local cuisine so you can experience more flavours from Sri Lanka’s culinary offerings after an adventurous day filled with exploration.

Overnight Stay
- Relax for the evening at your hotel and prepare for another exciting day ahead!

Day Itinerary: Nuwara Eliya Exploration

Morning
- Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Nuwara Eliya.

- Travel to Nuwara Eliya: Set off on your scenic drive, taking in the lush landscapes that Sri Lanka is famous for.

En Route Stops:

1. Hanuman Temple:
- Visit the Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, located in the hills of Ramboda. This temple commemorates Hanuman's search for Sita and is an important pilgrimage site visited by thousands of devotees each year.
- Take time to explore the temple's serene surroundings and appreciate its spiritual significance.

2. Ramboda Waterfall:
- Next, visit the stunning Ramboda Waterfall, one of Sri Lanka’s beautiful cascades surrounded by lush greenery.
- Enjoy a brief stop here to capture some photographs and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

3. Tea Plantation & Tea Factory:
- Continue your journey with a visit to a local tea plantation, where you can learn about Sri Lanka’s world-renowned tea industry.
- Tour the accompanying tea factory, witnessing firsthand how tea is processed from leaf to cup. Take this opportunity to sample some freshly brewed local teas.

Midday
- Now head towards Nuwara Eliya itself:

4. Explore Nuwara Eliya Town:
- Drive through the charming town of Nuwara Eliya and admire its well-maintained colonial architecture reminiscent of British influence.
- Stop by the bustling local market where tea plantation workers bustle about purchasing their daily provisions—an excellent chance for cultural immersion!

5. Lake Gregory:
- Visit picturesque Lake Gregory, built during British colonial times primarily for hydropower but now serves as a stunning feature enhancing the beauty of Nuwara Eliya.
- Relax along its banks or take part in recreational activities such as boating if time permits.

Afternoon/Evening
- After exploring these attractions, check into your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Evening Leisure
- Spend some leisure time at your hotel; unwind and enjoy the amenities offered or simply relax after an adventurous day exploring history and nature.

Dinner & Overnight Stay
- Gather for dinner at the hotel restaurant before enjoying an overnight stay amidst cool mountain air—a perfect way to wrap up your day filled with discovery!

Day Itinerary: Exploring Ramayana Sites

Morning
- After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Sita Amman Temple, located en route to the magnificent Hakgala Botanical Gardens.
- Marvel at the prominent temple architecture adorned with intricate sculptures and paintings depicting the tale of Rama and Sita. The ancient statues of Rama and Sita will surely catch your eye as you learn about their significance in local lore.

Legend: The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Seetha Devi, Lakshmana, and Hanuman and was built near a stream where Seetha Devi once bathed.

Mid-Morning
- Continue your journey to Divurumpola Temple, a sacred site revered by thousands. This is where Sita performed her Agni Pariksha (trial by fire) to prove her chastity.
- Discover how this place has been respected through the ages as villagers continue the tradition of pledging their fidelity or taking oaths here—oaths that are recognized legally.

Legend: Divurumpola translates to “place of oath” in Sinhala, making it an important site for locals seeking justice or resolution.

Afternoon
- Proceed towards Ella, a charming mountain village near Bandarawela rich in Ramayana lore.
- Visit Ravana Ella Cave, situated close to Ella Falls—a stunning waterfall cascading down 1,080 feet.
- Explore local folklore indicating that King Ravana took refuge here while keeping Sita captive. Nearby natural pools are believed to be where she bathed during her time with Ravana.

Early Evening
- Wrap up your day at the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, which not only boasts an impressive array of flora but also serves as a historical site connected deeply with Ramayana legends.
- Wander through these lush gardens known for their orchids while learning about its history as King Ravana’s pleasure garden.
- Discover how Hanuman visited Sita here bearing Rama’s ring—a poignant reminder of love amidst distress—and how he offered help which she graciously declined out of respect for Rama.

Evening
- After exploring these captivating sites intertwined with mythology and nature, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Dinner & Overnight Stay
- Enjoy dinner at the hotel before settling down for an overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya. Take this time to reflect on the day’s adventures filled with stories from Sri Lanka's illustrious past against stunning landscapes that enhance every legend told.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll proceed to Negombo, a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and rich history.

Check-in at the Hotel

Upon arrival in Negombo, you will check in at your hotel. Take some time to settle into your room and refresh yourself after the journey. The hotel typically offers various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Evening Leisure at the Hotel

In the afternoon, feel free to enjoy some leisure time at the hotel. You can relax by the pool, indulge in spa services, or take a stroll along nearby sandy beaches. If you're feeling adventurous, consider exploring local shops or cafes for a taste of Negombo’s culture.

Dinner and Overnight Stay in Negombo

As evening falls, you will have dinner at the hotel or perhaps venture out to experience local cuisine—Negombo is known for its fresh seafood and vibrant flavours! After dinner, return to your room for an overnight stay in Negombo. This peaceful coastal atmosphere provides an ideal setting for relaxation as you prepare for more adventures ahead on your journey through Sri Lanka.

After enjoying breakfast, your day will begin with a visit to the revered Muneshwaram Temple and the nearby Manavari Temple, both of which are steeped in rich history and mythological significance.

Muneshwaram Temple

Muneshwaram is believed to be one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, predating even the events of the Ramayana. The name "Muneshwaram" translates to "the first temple for Shiva" (Munnu + Easwaran), signifying its ancient roots. According to legend, when Lord Rama visited this sacred site after his victorious battle against King Ravana, he encountered a Shiva Lingam that was already present there.

As he journeyed back towards Ayodhya with Sita in one of Ravana's vimanas (flying chariot), Rama sensed a malevolent presence known as "Brahmahasthi Dosham," which haunted him due to his killing of Ravana—a Brahmin king. Concerned about this curse following him, he decided to stop at Muneshwaram, believing it was a place where this dark shadow could not reach him.

Here, Lord Rama prayed for guidance from Lord Shiva. In response, Shiva blessed him and instructed him on how to alleviate the Dosham by installing and praying at four significant lingams located in various places: Manavari (in Sri Lanka), Thirukoneshwaram (in Sri Lanka), Thiruketheeswaram (in Sri Lanka), and Rameshwaram (in India).

Manavari Temple

Continuing your spiritual journey from Muneshwaram brings you to Manavari Temple. As Rama’s vimana passed over Muneshwaram during his flight back home, it began vibrating—a sign that indicated Brahmahasthi Dosham was not following them anymore at that spot.

Recognizing this divine moment as an opportunity for purification, Rama stopped again and sought further advice from Lord Shiva. Following Shiva's guidance once more, he installed the first lingam at Manavari approximately 5 kilometres away near the banks of the Deduru Oya River. This lingam is revered today as "Ramalinga Shivan," symbolizing Rama’s devotion.

It’s worth noting that Rameshwaram is recognized as another prominent location housing a lingam named after Lord Rama—making it unique among other sites worldwide.

End of Your Tour Day

Upon completion of your visits to these sacred temples filled with historical importance and spiritual energy, you will transfer back to your hotel in Negombo.

In the evening enjoy dinner before settling down for an overnight stay in Negombo—reflecting on a day enriched by mythology and cultural heritage that connects deeply with ancient narratives surrounding Lord Rama's journey.