Sri Lanka Expo Tours

Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa are three significant historical and cultural sites located in the central part of Sri Lanka. Each of these places holds UNESCO World Heritage status and attracts tourists from around the world.

1. Dambulla:

   • Location: Dambulla is a town situated in the central part of Sri Lanka.

   • Key Attraction: The major attraction in Dambulla is the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. It is a complex of cave temples adorned with exquisite murals and over 150 Buddha statues. The caves date back to the 1st century BCE and showcase a combination of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist art.

2. Sigiriya:

   • Location: Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in the central Matale District.

   • Key Attraction: Sigiriya Rock, also known as the Lion Rock, is the main attraction. It is a UNESCO-listed site and is renowned for its ancient rock fortress and frescoes. The site dates back to the 5th century and was used as a royal palace and monastery. The remains of the palace, along with the famous frescoes of beautiful maidens, can be seen during the ascent.

3. Polonnaruwa:

   • Location: Polonnaruwa is an ancient city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.

   • Key Attraction: Polonnaruwa served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura. The ancient city is known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara (a rock temple with large Buddha statues), and various other archaeological and historical sites. The city showcases the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan civilization and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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1. Nine Arch Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks in Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge is a picturesque railway bridge known for its stunning architecture. The bridge is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a great vantage point for photographers.

2. Little Adam's Peak: This is a relatively easy hike that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. The trek to the summit takes about 30-45 minutes and is well worth the effort, especially during sunrise or sunset.

3. Ravana Falls: Located near Ella, Ravana Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense greenery. According to local legend, it is believed to be the site where Ravana, a character from the Indian epic Ramayana, hid Princess Sita.

4. Ella Rock: For those looking for a more challenging hike, Ella Rock is a popular trekking destination. The trail takes you through tea plantations and forests, ultimately leading to a summit with stunning views of the Ella Gap.

5. Tea Plantations: Explore the nearby tea estates to learn about the process of tea production. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see how tea leaves are plucked, processed, and packaged.

6. Ella Spice Garden: Discover the variety of spices that grow in Sri Lanka by visiting a spice garden. You can learn about the cultivation and uses of different spices and herbs.

7. Local Cuisine: Ella has a range of restaurants and cafes offering both local Sri Lankan dishes and international cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try some traditional Sri Lankan food.

 Galle is a historic city located on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved Dutch-colonial architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galle Fort.

The Galle Fort is a major attraction in the area, and it's a beautifully preserved fortress that dates back to the 17th century. The fort has a mix of European architecture and South Asian traditions, showcasing the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British who once controlled the region. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, visit historical buildings, and enjoy the scenic views from the fort walls.

Apart from the fort, Galle has other attractions like the Galle Lighthouse, the Dutch Reformed Church, and a vibrant market. The city also has a lively arts scene, with galleries and cultural events taking place.

Kandy is a city in the central part of Sri Lanka. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its cultural and historical significance. Here are some key features of Kandy:

1. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa): One of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

2. Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Located just outside Kandy, these gardens are renowned for their diverse collection of orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. The gardens were originally created as a pleasure garden for the royal family.

3. Kandy Lake: Also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, Kandy Lake is an artificial lake built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth. It adds to the scenic beauty of the city.

4. Kandy Esala Perahera: This is an annual festival that takes place in Kandy to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The festival includes a vibrant procession with traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully decorated elephants.

5. Cultural Dance Performances: Visitors can enjoy traditional Kandyan dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. These performances often take place in various venues around the city.

6. British Garrison Cemetery: This cemetery is a reminder of the colonial history of Kandy. It contains the graves of many British nationals who lived and died in Kandy during the colonial period.

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Udawalawe National Park:

Location: Udawalawe National Park is located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) southeast of Colombo.

Wildlife: The park is known for its population of elephants, and it's one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Other wildlife that can be found in the park includes water buffalo, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boar, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Udawalawe is also a popular spot for birdwatching.

Landscape: The park consists mainly of grasslands and bushy areas surrounding the Udawalawe Reservoir. The reservoir provides water for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the park.

Elephant Transit Home: Udawalawe National Park is also home to the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned or injured elephants are rehabilitated and eventually released back into the wild.

Safari Tours: Visitors to Udawalawe National Park often go on safari tours to explore the park and observe its wildlife. Safari vehicles take tourists through the park, providing opportunities to see and photograph the animals.

Colombo is the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, an island country located in South Asia. It is situated on the west coast of the island and has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. Colombo serves as the economic, cultural, and political center of Sri Lanka.

Key features of Colombo include its vibrant mix of modern and colonial architecture, bustling markets, diverse cultural influences, and a variety of religious sites. The city is home to a range of attractions, including the Colombo National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and the Galle Face Green promenade along the Indian Ocean.

Colombo is a major port city and a hub for trade and commerce. The city's skyline is characterized by a blend of skyscrapers and historic buildings, reflecting its dynamic and evolving nature. The city also offers a diverse culinary scene, shopping opportunities, and a lively nightlife.

In addition to its urban appeal, Colombo serves as a gateway for travelers exploring other parts of Sri Lanka. The Bandaranaike International Airport, located nearby in Negombo, facilitates international and domestic air travel.