Sri Lanka Buddhism Pilgrimage Covering Anuradhapura Dam Bulla Kandy Temple of Tooth Polonnaruwa from Europe London Paris Frankfurt

Sri Lanka Buddhism Pilgrimage Tour

Covering Anuradhapura  Dam Bulla Kandy Temple of Tooth Polonnaruwa

From Europe London Paris Frankfurt

Srilanka Buudhist Tour Package from Europe- USA

This Great Srilanka Tour Package is especially custom made From Europe to visit Srilanka including Colombo, Anuradhapura, Dam bulla, Kandy Temple of Tooth, and Polonnaruwa.

This package is carefully designed with 7 nights stay in Srilanka, Starts from Europe, London Paris Frankfurt ETC. with select world Class hotels to suit the family needs. We offer you 2 Night Stay in Colombo, 2 Nights in Anuradhapura, 1 night stay in polonnaruwa  and 2 Nights in kandy .

Related Tags

Sri Lanka Tourism - Buddhism Pilgrimage Nirvana Tours| Dambulla cave Temple Tour|Srilanka tourism|Sri lanka Buddhist tourism Packages|nallur kandaswamy Temple tour|Sri lanka Buddhist Temple sentul|Temple of the tooth entrance fee|Temple of the tooth festival|

Sri Lanka Tour Package from Europe USA - Winter package - 4 Nights/5 Days 

• Validity - October to December ( except New year, Christams Holidays)
• Couples - 2 ( 4 PAX)
• Hotels - 3 star best catagory
• Destinations - Colombo, Kandy
• Attractions - Colombo, Kandy, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Sigria, Habarna, Kandy Temple of Tooth, NuwaraElliya, Sita mata temple, Hanuman Temple, Temple of Tooth

Cost - $250/-Per person sharing DBL room on BB basis  x 04 pax

Hotel Used - 3 Star Best Trip Advisor Ranking
 

• Devon  Hotel , Kandy (02 Nights )
• Sapphire  Hotel , Colombo (02 Nights )

 
Day-1–Arrive in Colombo Airport from London/Paris/Frankfurt/Newyork

Proceed from Colombo airport to Kandy, En route Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Day-2–Kandy Site Seeing

Kandy-Morning Visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden & Kandy Temple Cultural show, Gem Shop..Afternoon tour to Nuwara Elliya and visit the Tea estates, Waterfalls, Site seeing including Sita mata temple, Hanuman Temple.

Day-3– Kandy to Colombo - at leisure ..

Day-4– Colombo – Site Seeing - Colombo city tour & Shopping tour.

Day-5--Departure Back to destination

 
Value added services on Complementary basis

• Discount voucher to shop at ODEL dress boutique in Colombo.
• Discount voucher to shop at MONDY / COTTON COLLECTION in Colombo

The above prices include:
 

• - Accommodation at the above mentioned Hotels .
• - 04 Breakfasts at the hotel itself .
• - Transport in an A/C Micro  with the service of an English-speaking Chauffeur Guide.
• - Sightseeing as mentioned above. Without entrance Charges.
• - Value added tax.
• - Meeting and Assistance at the airport.

 
The above prices exclude:

• - Early check in & late check out.
• - Lunch & Dinner on tour ..
• - Visa & other charges (Entry Visa Fees, please visit www.eta.gov.lk for more details / submit your individual visa application)

Supplement cost for Entrance Fees ( Per person)

• $16  Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
• $14  Kandy Temple
• $16  Cultural show
• $24  Peradeniya Botanical Garden

 
IMPORTANT NOTES

• Base Package applicable for all nationalities
• Price valid only for mentioned period only.
• Price based on minimum 04 pax as mentioned, travelling together at all time.
• All Hotels Check In time is 1400 hrs & Check Out time is 1200hrs (Early Check In / Late Check Out is subject to availability & at the discretion of hotel).
• Room availability of above quoted hotels are strictly subject to change & will check availability & confirm at the time of reporting as confirmed   booking.

​

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HOLIDAYTRAVEL.CO Lanka Day Tours:-

Sri Lanka day tours are offering you day excursions and sight-seeing tours all over Sri Lanka. Choose from an exciting range of day excursions from the best in the field.

HOLIDAYTRAVEL.CO Team. With an abundance of exotic Fauna and Flora in a number of Buddhist nirvana temples central Sri Lanka and of course.

Cost of the Sri Lanka Package

Budget Sri Lanka Package: At just Rs.39000 per couple enjoy 7 Nights / 8 Days in Srilankan Tour which covers best tourist destinations. With budgeted hotel.

Delux 3 star Sri Lanka package: - At just Rs58000. per couple enjoy 7 Nights / 8Days in Srilankan Tour which covers best tourist destinations. With 3 star hotel.

Delux  4 star Sri Lanka package :- At just Rs.80000 per couple enjoy 7Nights / 8Days in Srilankan Tour which covers best tourist destinations. With luxury hotel.

SriLanka Tour package from Europe - Package Itinerary

DAY 01: Arrival / Colombo

Upon arriving in Sri Lanka meet and assist at the airport by our representative and transfer to Colombo from the Bandaranayke International Airport for your first night. Overnight stay at hotel in Colombo.

DAY 02: Colombo

Colombo city looks like the busiest town in Sri Lanka. But even if city is busy, the people in Sri Lanka do not forget to step in to a temple when they are having leisure time. After entering to a temple suddenly your mind will be calm. It will be penetrate to your whole mind and automatically you will be escaped from the fussy feelings. There are several famous Buddhist temples in and around Colombo . You can visit following temples .

GANGARAMAYA, WAJIRARAMAYA, BELLANWILA WIHARAYA, MANELWATTA RAJA MAHA WIHARAYA.In the evening you can attend to the Pooja ceremony at Kelani Rajamaha Vihara temple in Kelaniaya .

Overnight stay at hotel in Colombo.

DAY 03: Colombo / Anuradhapura

After breakfast proceed heading to one of the Historical UNESCO World Heritage Site and this city gained more reputation during the late period royal family and nobility of Sri Lanka strongly supported Buddhism. In the afternoon you can visit Sri Maha Bodiya, Isurumuniya , lovamahapaya and many other places which well known ritual centers.

In the evening you can gather up to a little pirith chanting ceremony at Ruwanwelisaya and can bind a PIRITH NOOL (Bless in Thread ) by a monk.

Overnight stay at hotel in Anuradhapura.

DAY 04: Anuradhapura

After breakfast do a city tour in Anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura is the most celebrated of Sri Lanka's ancient ruined cities. The city's greatest treasures are its dagabas constructed of small sun-dried bricks and hemispherical in shape. The most notable of these dagabas are the Ruvanveli which dates back to the 2nd Century BC and is 3 00ft in diameter, the Jetawanarama is 370ft and the Thuparama which enshrines the collarbone of the Buddha.

The city's most renowned relic is the sacred Bo-Tree which is said to have grown from a branch of the tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment. It was planted 2250 years ago and is the oldest historic tree in the world.

Overnight stay at hotel in Anuradhapura.

DAY 05: Anuradhapura / Polonnaruwa

Do a city tour in Polonnaruwa.

Polonnaruwa , the capital from 11th -13th century A.D. Here the monuments are better preserved. The circular relic house (Vata-da-ge) Lankathilaka, Thuparama, Royal Palace, Rankoth vihara and Galvihara with the beautiful rock cut Buddha statues are the most interesting.

But as a option you can cover the city by bicycles’.

Overnight stay at hotel in Polonnaruwa.

DAY 06: Polonnaruwa / Dam bulla / Kandy

After breakfast proceed to Kandy via Dam bulla. En route you can visit Sigiriya.( Optional )

Climb the Sigiriya rock fortress.

Sigiriya - A Fortress around the Palace on the summit of a 600 foot high rock ,contains beautiful paintings of the Heavenly ladies called" Vijjulatha" and "Meghalatha" with 21 figures remaining out of more than 500 which are similar to the Ajantha paintings of India.

Some time you may feel little bit tired and won’t be having a thought of a climb the Sigiriya Rock. Then get ready to do a just little hike to Pidurangala Temple. (Optional)

This was the temple which was constructed by king kashyapa in memory of him and his daughters, by the name of "Bodhi " and "uthpalawanna" ."Kashyapagiri viharaya or bo upulwan kassapagiri vehera in niiyanthi the woods in the outskirts of the north entrance of sigiriya" has been done by king.According to stone inscriptions, this was the "Dala vehera" which has been mentioned in Mahawansa.

In the afternoon witness Dambulla cave temple in Dambulla.

Dambulla is a vast isolated rock mass 500ft high and a mile around the base. Here is found the famous Rock Temple dating to the First Century BC. The caves of Dambulla sheltered the King Walagamba during his 14 years of exile from Anuradhapura. When he regained the throne he built the most magnificent of Rock Temples to be found on the Island.

Overnight stay at hotel in Kandy.

DAY 07: Kandy

In the morning you can wake up with chilling little bit of cold breeze. Now you are in the cultural capital sacred city Senkadagalapura, then called Kandy. You will be ready for a City tour which can cover most of the temples in Kandy and you can see impregnable natural fortress secured by rings of mountains and river mahaweli. You can visit lankathilke, Degaldoruwa Viharaya, Gadaladeniya Temple.

 In evening you can visit Temple of tooth relic and join with the pooja ceremony.

Overnight stay at hotel in Kandy.

DAY 08: Kandy

Today will be a special day for you , because you can have a chance to go to the Mahamewna with a noble thought for having a spiritual relaxation. You will have to face to the meditation experience and a retreat programme in calm and serene Mahamewnawa. And then proceed to Colombo.

Package Inclusions:

•             Daily  English breakfast & dinner at the hotel.

•             Two night stay at colombo hotel, 2 night stay at anuradhapura, 1night stay in Polonnaruwa, 2 night stay in kandy.

•             Accommodation in 2 Star / 3 Star / 4 Star hotels will be provided

•             All entrances fees are part of the tour cost

Package Exclusions:

•             The flight rates have been calculated as on January. Any price hikes are not included.

•             Any expenses of personal nature or any tips given are at tourist’s discretion and not part of tour cost

•             Airfare, Visa & insurance

Hotels in the Sri Lanka Package from Europe start from London Paris Frankfurt:

COLOMBO Best Hotels

• Hotel in colombo is a 2 star hotel that costs about 2500 per night i.e City Rest – Fort  46 Hospital Street | Colombo 1, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka. (Ranked #9 of 80)

•   3 star hotel that costs about Rs.5500 per night. I.e. the Ocean Colombo No 40, Melbourne Avenue on Marine Drive, Colombo 00400, Sri Lanka.(9 of 35 hotels in Colombo )

4 star hotel that costs about 9000 per night. i.e. Cinnamon Grand Colombo  P.O. Box 252, 77 Galle Road, Colombo, Sri Lanka (#6 of 35 hotels in Colombo)

Anuradhapura best Recommended Hotels:

• Hotel in Anuradhapura a 2 star hotel that costs about 2500 per night i.e. London Palace Nagasena Mawatha, Mailagas Handiya, Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka (#8 of 64 Anuradhapura)

•Heritage Hotel 3 star hotel that cost 4000 per night. 3.0 Of 5 Galwala Road | Pothanegama, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka (#5 of 11 hotels in Anuradhapura)

• Hotel Alakamanda 4 Star hotel that cost about 5500 per night . No 11/1 Nagasena Mawatha, Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka (#11 of 64)

POLONNARUWA Best Recommended Hotels

•Seyara Holiday Resort is a 2 star property with approximately Rs. 2000 as per night cost 34 Polonnaruwa Road | Bendiwewa, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka (#1 of 12)

. • Hotel Lake Park is a 3 star hotel with modest cost of Rs. 5000 per night. No: 42, Deewara     awathas, Bendiwewa, Polonnaruwa 51000, Sri Lanka (#5 of 12 )

• Deer Park Hotel is a 4 star hotel with Rs. 7500 per night. Giritale, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka (Ranked #3 of 12.

KANDY best Recommended Hotels:

• Hotel Kandyan view holiday bungalow 2 star hotel that costs about Rs. 2500 per night.   No, 17, Richmond Hills, Heerassagala | Hantana, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka (#40 of 51 hotels in Kandy).

• Hotel Hilltop is a 3 star hotel that cost 4500 per night.  Hotel   |   Opp Ice Skating Rink, Gulmarg 193403, India. (Ranked #8 of 10 Hotels in Gulmarg)

•Tour maline hotel is a 4 star hotel that costs Rs. 7500 per night. Aniwatte, Kandy, Sri Lanka (#16 of 51 hotels in Kandy)

Flights Connectivity Options to Sri Lanka Colombo from Europe starting from London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Flights from London to Colombo:-Srilankan airlines

London (LHR) Dep: 2050 hrs UL - 504 R Class| Colombo (CMB) Arr: 1250hrs

Returning Flights from Colombo to London

Colombo (CMB) Dep: 1300 hrs UL - 503 R Class |London (LHR) |Arr: 1920hrs

Flights from Paris to Colombo (Qatar Airways (QR)

 Paris (CDG) Dep: 2100hrsQR - 38 S Class Doha (DOH)  Arr: 0530hrs  

Doha (DOH) Dep: 1225hrsQR -660 S Class Colombo (CMB) Arr: 1940hrs

Returning Flights from Colombo to Paris

Colombo (CMB)Dep: 0355hrsQR - 663 O Class Doha (DOH) Arr: 0615hrs

Doha (DOH)Dep: 1340hrsQR - 37 O Class Paris (CDG) Arr: 1910hrs

Flights from Frankfurt to Colombo (Qatar Airways (QR)

Frankfurt (FRA) Dep: 1045hrsQR - 70 S Class Doha (DOH) Arr: 1840hrs

Doha (DOH) Dep: 1930hrsQR - 662 S Class Colombo (CMB) Arr: 0225hrs

Returning Flights from Colombo to Frankfurt

Colombo (CMB) Dep: 0910hrsQR - 659 L Class Doha (DOH) Arr: 1145hrs

Doha (DOH)Dep: 0205hrsQR - 69 L Class Frankfurt (FRA) Arr: 0655hrs

Why you must book This Sri lanka Package:-

Sri Lanka is the Cleanest Country in the Indian Sub Continent; You will be surprised to see Absolutely Clean & Unpolluted Rivers like MahaValley River, Streams, Canals. These are located in most populated areas in Sri Lanka. Lesson to be learnt from Sri Lankans on how to keep the country Neat & Clean. Most Hospitable and Warm Attitude towards Travellers. Get surprised by the Warmth you receive from Sri Lankans, once you are there.

Colombo city looks like the busiest town in Sri Lanka. But even if city is busy, the people in Sri Lanka do not forget to step in to a temple when they are having leisure time. After entering to a temple suddenly your mind will be calm. It will be penetrate to your whole mind and automatically you will be escaped from the fussy feelings. There are several famous Buddhist temples in and around Colombo. You can visit following temples.

GANGARAMAYA, WAJIRARAMAYA, BELLANWILA WIHARAYA, MANELWATTA RAJA MAHA WIHARAYA.

Destinations Covered in Sri Lanka package start from London paris and Frankfurt:-

COLOMBO: - There are quite a few Buddhist temples in the city. Worth a visit is the Gangaramaya Temple, near the Beira Lake. The most important temple close to Colombo is the Kelani Raja Maha Viharaya. This site date back to the very early dates of the Singhalese Buddhist civilization in this country. It is one of the three places in the country where Lord Buddha is supposed to have visited. The temple boasts of some very fascinating wall and ceiling paintings. Colombo has many Hindu temples, known as kovils.

Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple

Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in  being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence.

This Buddhist temple includes several imposing buildings and is situated not far from the placid waters of  on a plot of land that was originally a small hermitage on a piece of marshy land. It has the main features of a Vihara , the Cetiya (Pagada) the Bodhitree, the Vihara Mandiraya, the Seema malaka (assembly hall for monks) and the Relic Chamber. In addition,  a residential hall, a three storeyed Pirivena, educational halls and an alms hall are also on the premises

Today Gangaramaya serves not only as a place worship; it is also a centre of learning. The temple is involved in Buddhist welfare work including old peoples' homes, a vocational school and an orphanage. The temple is uniquely attractive and tolerant to congregation members of many different religions.

Kalani Raja Maha Viharaya

Located about 06 miles away from Colombo, the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple had been built more than 2000 years ago and contains images of reclining and preaching Buddha along with frescoes depicting incidents from his life.

Kovils

There are several Hindu temples which are called Kovils in Colombo. On Sea Street in Pettah is the Kathiseran Temple dedicated to the war god Skanda. Built of South Indian granite is the Sri Ponnambalam-Vaneswaram temple, in Koch-chikade, three km north of Fort. In Colombo 10 the Sri Bala Selva Vinayagar Moorthy temple is devoted to Shiva and Ganesh. Other important temples are the Shiva Subramania Swami temple on Slave Island and the Sri Muthumariamman temple in Colombo 13.

Wolvendaal church

Wolvendaal church is one on the oldest churches built during the Dutch era in 1749. The interior is decorated with Dutch furniture with the wooden carved pews, chairs, pulpit and lecterns.One of the major highlights of the church is the Tombstones of 5 Dutch governors, including the oldest Dutch tombstone in Sri Lanka, which were moved from a church with in the Fort in 1813. The other attraction is the church organ, which is still in its perfect condition.

Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque

Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque at Second Cross Street, in the Pettah is one of the most striking buildings in Colombo and can be spotted very easily. This beautiful red and white design architecture mosque began to construct in 1908 and took almost a year to complete.

The Mosque is striped red and white like a layer cake, a design that is reminiscent of another mosque which was also completed in 1909, the Masjid Jamek of Kuala Lumpur. The architect of the Jami-Ul-Alfar was one H.L. Saibo Lebbe.

Churches

St. Peter’s Church near the Grand Oriental Hotel used to be the Dutch Governor’s Banquet Hall until it was first used as a church in 1804. On Galle Road next to the Cinnamon Grand Hotel is the St. Andrew’s Scots Kirk, built in 1842.
The famous Church of St. Anthony is situated beside the sea where Sea Street and St. Anthony’s Mawatha meet.

COLOMBO TOURIST GUIDE

Colombo is the capital, and largest city of Sri Lanka and a popular tourist destination. Galle Face Green is a ribbon of green space located in the heart of the city along the Indian Ocean coast, and is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.

Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo. The temple's architecture demonstrates an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture.

The Viharamahadevi Park (formerly Victoria Park) is an urban park located next to the National Museum of Colombo and the Town Hall, Colombo Town Hall It is the oldest and largest park in Colombo and features a large Buddha statue

Things to do in Colombo City

Shopping

The best place to start your shopping in Sri Lanka is none other than the country’s largest city and commercial hub, the city of Colombo. Colombo offers an interesting and exciting array of choices in shops and goods. Be it world famous Ceylon tea, designer clothes, leather goods, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, antiques, ceramics or whatever your heart desires, is available at a plethora of stores easily accessible in the city.
Apart from the main shopping malls, shops and boutiques in Colombo, travellers can enjoy a unique shopping experience in Pettah, which is in the Fort area of Colombo. In this part of the city, there are numerous street stalls selling everything and anything at very affordable prices.

Play Golf

The Royal Colombo Golf Club which is the second oldest golf club outside the United Kingdom boasts a 130 year history. A sanctuary in the midst of a bustling city, the golf course is an easily accessible past-time to relax, unwind and indulge in.

Discover Sri Lankan History

The Colombo National Museum is a remarkable Italian architecture colonial building, which was established in 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time.

 Festivals & Events in Colombo

Christmas party Colombo

•Leo District Council 306 B2, Sri Lanka join hand with Leo Club of Colombo Circle organizing the Christmas party 'LEO DJ BLACK NIGHT' On 20th Saturday December 2014 from 6 pm onward in GSH Colombo, 382, Galle road, colombo 6.

Kama Colombo

•As always Kama Colombo is ready to give you your monthly dosage of Salsa. Drop in at Kama on Saturday, the 20th of December, and enjoy smooth Latin tunes to get your Salsa groove on! Spin masters for the night, SELECTRO, will take care of the dance floor as you sway and move to some groovy Salsa.

Also, indulge yourself in some of the best special offers on some of the finest cocktails and drinks in town.

*Free entrance between 9pm and 12am

*50% off on all beverages before midnight

Do not miss out on yet another unforgettable night at Kama Colombo as we spice up your holiday season.

Colombo Holi Festival

Welcome to The Colombo Grand Holi Festival Events. The Best Year end  HOLI Festival for you and your loved ones. Featuring the best DJ’s in Colombo to play and get you groove on the grounds with Stunning HoliColours splashing all directions by making lovely memories and that will cherish for an eternity.

•             Some amazing games and fun events are waiting for you so be a part of it and stand a chance to WIN FREE GIFTS at the event.

•             Children below 12 years can walk in free.

Climate of Colombo

Sri Lanka is a typical example of a tropical zone, with a well defined summer and winter, interspersed by two monsoons – the south-west monsoon (in May-August) and the north-east monsoon (in October-January). The climate is generally temperate, with temperatures rarely rising above 35? C. The central highlands have a much cooler climate with mean temperatures hovering at a comfortable 16 degrees dition, the final day of the four devales (Vishnu, Natha,

Anuradhapura:-

The Sri Mahabodhi Tree

It is hard to believe; but without a shadow of doubt—that this small tree with limbs so slender that they must be supported on iron crutches, is the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world (2,200 years).

A branch of the very Bo beneath which (at Buddha Gaya in North India) the Buddha himself found Enlightenment, was brought to Sri Lanka in the 3rd Century B.C. by the Princess/religieuse Sanghamitta; a sister of the saint Mahinda

Loha Prasada - The Brazen Palace

A roof of copper over this primordial skyscraper bestowed upon it, its name. This work of Duttha Gamini is known to have burned down only 15 years after its building; which leads to the surmise that it was largely a wooden structure.The 1,600 pillars  that now mark the site are historically ascribed to king Parakrama Bahu the Great (1153—1186 A.D.) of Polonnaruwa. The original building was of 9 graded stories and is said to have had one thousand rooms.

The Mahathupa - Ruwanweli Dagaba

The Mahathupa (Great Thupa) is today known as the Ruvanveliseya Dagaba. This is the centre piece of The Maha vihara (Great Monastery). The Maha vihara, because of it's long history of guarding the traditions of Theravada Buddhism, and because its monks kept the most sacred shrines at Anuradhapura, was the most important monastery of the city. Although not it's true height and original form, the fine white Ruvanveliseya Dagaba, guarded by a 'wall of elephants', still looks magnificent

A dagaba or thupa (relic chamber), is a dome which is built over sacred relics, the bodily remains of the Buddha. King Duttha Gamini had already built the Mirisavati and his magnificent Brazen Palace, but he wanted something bigger and better for his greatest work.

The Thuparama Dagaba

The Thuparama was the first Buddhist building at Anuradhapura. It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa to enshrine the Buddha’s collar bone. Originally of the “paddy heap” shape, its present “bell” shape dates to reconstruction in the 1840s. The graceful monolithic pillars surrounding it once upheld a circular roof making the shrine a Vata Dage (Circular—Relic—house) a characteristically Sinhala architectural feature

The Jetavana Dagaba

To the east of the Mahathupa lies an enormous brick dagaba, the Jetavana. The dagaba was originally built to a height of 400 feet (120 Metres), making it the 3rd largest building in the world at that time. The two taller buildings were the biggest of the Egyptian pyramids, built two thousand years before. Mahasena built this massive dagaba in the 3rd Century AD, in a apparent show of strength and support to the Sagaliya sect of the Buddhist order which he followed. This was against strong opposition from the powerful and established orthodox Maha vihara order.

The Abhayagiri Monastery & Dagaba

Established by King Vattagamini in 88 BC, the Uttravihara (Northern Monastery) is now known as the Abhayagiri Monastery. This was a result of the King being jeered by a Jain hermit, while fleeing from from the South Indians, after losing his throne. He spent 14 years 'in the wilderness'.When he returned to power, he destroyed the Jain Monastery, and around the the Jotiya shrine, he built a Buddhist monastery. It was the largest monastery in Sri Lanka for about 600 years. It is one of the eight holy shrines of the Buddhists.

The Samadhi Buddha

Samadhi is a state of deep meditation, and the Lord Buddha is represented in this position after gaining enlightenment. This 4th Century AD statue of the Buddha in meditative pose is acknowledged worldwide as a masterpiece. The Indian Nationalist leader, Nehru, derived strength from contemplating his statue, during his imprisonment by the British.

The Mirisavati Dagaba

King Duttha Gamini celebrated the seventh day after his victory with a water festival at the Tissa tank. Nearby on the shore he planted his spear (the King’s spear, generally containing a Relic of the Buddha, was the royal standard in battle) and laid his clothes.

Here he built his first Dagaba, enshrining in it his spear with its Relic—in expiation, as he himself explained, of his impiety in having once eaten a relish (miris) “without a thought of the Brotherhood”. The Vahalkadas (frontispieces) are particularly striking.

"Polonnaruwa: Places of interest

The Thuparama

This oblong brick image house occupies the southwest corner of the adjoining quadrangle. The Thuparama, is a large Buddhist image house. Inside the building, in the inner sanctum, is a ruined brick and plaster pile, that was once a seated image of the Buddha. The original vaulted roof of the building is still intact. Tropical rains run down the curve of the roof, and like the gargoyles of medieval Europe, Makara (dragon) spouts drain the water to the ground

The Vatadage

This circular relic house possesses an elegance and beauty that is rare even in ancient Sri Lanka. In line with the outer circle of stone pillars is a tastefully ornamented screen wall patterned with four petaled flowers.The flights of access stairs at the cardinal points are of stone and are beautifully carved. At the head of each flight is a Buddha statue in stone. The shrine is lavished with moonstones., guard stones and sculptured writings.

The shrine, like all dagobas in Sri Lanka, is oriented towards the cardinal points - north, south, east and west. Four Buddha statues face outwards, with their backs to the dagaba mound.

Tivanka Image House

Largest among the brick - built shrines of Polonnaruwa. In the narrow antechamber, beautiful Devas (demigods), and the Bodhisattvas above, beckon the worshipper into the inner sanctum. Here stands the mighty Tivanka image of the Buddha, depicted in the 'thrice curved pose.

Potgul Viharas - The Sage

Potgul Vihara is the modern name by which the southern monastery in Polonnaruwa is known, but it's ancient name has not been established. The superb sculpture, which introduces the art of Polonnaruwa to the visitor, is also mysterious. It is generally considered to be a representation of Parakramabahu the Great. Other opinions however, identify the figure as that of a sage. Whoever that it may represent, the sculpture is one of the great masterpieces of Sri Lankan art.

Gal Vihare - Rock Shrine

The most impressive sculptures at Polonnaruwa are the colossal Buddha images carved on the face of a granite boulder at the Gal Vihare. It includes some of the masterpieces of Sri Lankan Buddhist art, and these were commissioned by Parakramabahu  The first sculpture is a seated Buddha image in a deep meditation, on a throne decorated with lions and thunderbolts and behind the Buddha is a halo. The statue is one of the most impressive examples of Sri Lanka's sculpture. The seated Buddha is protected by an umbrella. Between the cave and the tall standing figure is a large inscription of Parakramabahu, which records in detail his struggle to unite the Buddhist order, and sets out the reformed rules of conduct.

Tivanka Image House

Largest among the brick - built shrines of Polonnaruwa. In the narrow antechamber, beautiful Devas (demigods), and the Bodhisattvas above, beckon the worshipper into the inner sanctum. Here stands the mighty Tivanka image of the Buddha, depicted in the 'thrice curved pose.

Kandy Sri Lanka - The Hill Capital

129 Km away from Colombo and 465 metres above sea level, is Kandy, the charming hill capital, cultural centre of the island and a World Heritage City. Nestling amidst low hills, and looped by the Mahaweli river, Sri Lanka's largest, Kandy is still the home of the arts and crafts, music and dance and song which flourished under the patronage of the Kandy an Kings

For Buddhists, Kandy is the sacred city. The focal point is the Dalada Maligawa also known as the temple of the tooth, where the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined. There are many shrines and temples in and around Kandy, where you will see rare paintings, frescoes, wood and stone carvingsKandy is an exciting place for shopping with souvenirs of wood, copper, silver, brass and bronze. Ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewellery, rush and reed-ware too could be purchased. While in Kandy, an outing to a tea factory as well as a tea plantation should also be made to witness first hand, the process that leads to the creation of the famous 'Ceylon Tea'.

Main KANDY ATT RACTIONS:-

The Temple of Tooth:

Also known as Dalda Maligawa, it is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Here, one of the Buddha's teeth is kept. The temple was built in the 17th century. A golden canopy has been added recently. Daily rituals are performed three times a day-at 4.30 a.m., 10.30 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. respectively.

Gadaladeniya Temple:

Built in 1344, the temple is situated on a hilltop at a distance of 15 km from the town. The temple is inspired by Dravidian architecture and gives a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside.

Peradeniya Gardens:

The garden-a paradise for nature lover- was built in 14th century during the reign of king Vikrama Bahu III. The best-known attraction of the garden is the orchid House, which houses more than 300 varieties of exquisite orchids. A spice garden located here gives you a first hand account of the trees and plants used in the traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

Embekke Temples:

This 14th century temple is famous for the intricate wooden carvings dedicated to God Katargama. Almost the entire structures of some wooden buildings are decorated with dancers, musicians, wrestlers, legendary beasts and birds. Nearby are the ruins of an ancient rest house with similar pillars carved in stone.

Lankatilaka Temple:

Lankatilaka temple dates back to 14th century. It is built on the summit of a rock called Panhalgala. The temple provides a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding hills, paddy fields and the diverse vegetation around it.

Knuckle Mountains:

The Knuckles range is about 90 square miles in extent and is a detached block of the central highlands separated from the main highlands by the the Dumbara Valley. There are 35 peaks rising to more than 3000 feet (915 m) in the Knuckles range. It has a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Hanthana Mountains:

Hanthana Mountains are spread on the outskirts of Kandy and are a source of many rivulets and streams. They are an ideal destination for the trekkers.

Udawatte Kele:

Udawatte Kele is a primeval forest located above the Dalada Maligawa. It is also known as the Forbidden Forest of the Kings of Kandy. It contains a variety of trees such as Talipot trees, cinnamon, olive, rattan cane, betel, bo-trees, kitul palms, jak, mara, betelnut and arecanut.

Hindu Shrines:

There are four Hindu shrines dedicated to Gods Vishnu and Natha and Goddess Patthini in Kandy. Three of them are located adjacent to the Temple of Tooth, while the fourth one is towards the town.

Buddhist Temples:

There are many Buddhist temples surrounding Kandy. Famous among them are Malwaththa and Asgiri temples located on the shores of the lake.

KANDY LAKE:-

"We couldn't believe how much wildlife there is around the lake, and as easily accessible as there is a footpath all around it. One of the few great things to do which are free in Sri Lanka."

KANDY Tourist Guide :-

Kandy is a major city in Sri Lanka, located in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. It is the second largest city in the country after Colombo. It was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka.

Kandy is both an administrative and religious city and is also the capital of the Central Province. Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri DaladaMaligawa), one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. It was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.

Festivals & Events in Kandy

Festivals and Events in Kandy

August Moon or Kandy Perahera festival is one of the most important festivals in Kandy. The festivities include a impressive medieval day parade that is held of 10 nights, which climaxes with the Kandyan dancers and drummers dressed in colourful traditional held in Kandy where a spectacular medieval day pageant is held for 10 nights climaxing with the Kandyan dancers and drummers dressed in colourful traditional clothes. The whole experience with Kandyan Chieftains dressed in medieval court dress, more than one hundred richly decorated elephants, torch bears is a sight that is not to be missed.

Sri Lanka Buddhism Pilgrimage Tour - Inclusions

Covering Anuradhapura  Dam Bulla Kandy Temple of Tooth Polonnaruwa 

From Europe London Paris Frankfurt

Sri Lanka Buddhism Pilgrimage Tour - Itinerary

Covering Anuradhapura  Dam Bulla Kandy Temple of Tooth Polonnaruwa 

From Europe London Paris Frankfurt