Sri Lanka Tour: Resplendent Land

Tour Leader

Robin Coningham received his PhD at King’s College, Cambridge in Archaeology and Anthropology. He holds UNESCO’s 2014 Chair in Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage in the Department of Archaeology, Durham (UK), and is Associate Director (World Heritage) of the University’s Institute of Mediaeval and Early Modern Studies (IMEMS). His interest in the relationship between identity and cultural heritage in regions of conflict as well as the impact of the international trade in illicit antiquities resulted in the creation of a Center for the study of Ethics of Cultural Heritage at Durham. Professor Coningham is committed to the preservation of cultural heritage, joining over 25 international missions for UNESCO. His fieldwork in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka aimed to refine early historic chronologies, the origin of Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea trade, and the archaeology of early Buddhism. His discovery at Maya Devi temple at Lumbini in Nepal pushes Buddha’s birth 300 years earlier than previously thought. Dr. Coningham has published extensively, including The Archaeology of South Asia: From the Indus to Asoka (with Ruth Young), and his excavations in the Citadel of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s earliest capital, led to the publication of three volumes covering the findings. His knowledge of Sri Lanka’s archaeology and history, along with his enthusiastic teaching skills makes him an ideal study leader.

Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary

(B) breakfast, (L) lunch, (D) dinner

Day 1: Depart the USA.

Day 2: Arrive into Sri Lanka, transfer to the Jetwing Beach Hotel in Negombo and overnight for one night.

Day 3: Today we head north to Anuradhapura. In the evening, witness the ceremonial lighting of the Ruwanweliseya Dagoba, which literally glows under the night . Built in the time of British Governor Henry Arthur Blake, The Sanctuary at Tissawewa in Anuradhapura, a small refurbished colonial hotel, is our home for the next three nights. (B/L/D)

Day 4: Enjoy a full day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura. Founded during the 4^th century BC, Anuradhapura quickly became both the capital of Ceylon and the sacred city of Buddhism on the island.  Spread throughout the site are remarkable monuments, particularly the Dagobas of colossal size, placed on circular foundations and surrounded by a ring of monolithic columns. Hidden in dense jungle for centuries, there is now much to view here, including eight major palaces, monasteries and monuments as well as the sacred Bodhi tree.  A cutting from the fig tree of Buddha, brought here in the 3^rd century BC, it has flourished and, today, the tree spreads out over the center of the complex. The relics of Buddha Siddhartha have also shaped the religious features of Anuradhapura. In the 3^rd century BC, Dagoba Thuparama was built by King Tissa to house the clavicle of Buddha, an important religious relic presented by Ashoka, one of India’s greatest rulers. (B/L/D)

Day 5: This morning travel east to the mountain peak of Mihintale. This site is believed to be the meeting place of the Buddhist monk Mahinda, son of Emperor Ashoka of India, and King Devanampiyatissa. Mihintale is therefore widely regarded as the location in which Buddhism was introduced  to Sri Lanka and is currently a sacred place of pilgrimage.  Next, head to one of the oldest Buddhist temple complexes in Sri Lanka, Hatthikuchchi Viharaya, which translates to “Elephant Belly Temple”, or .  The source of this name is a large rock which resembles a kneeling elephant within the complex. Construction of the temple is attributed to King Devanampiyatissa in the 3^rd century BC. The complex is perhaps most well known, however, as the place that the exiled King Sirisangabo sacrificed himself for a peasant who was in desperate need of the bounty on the former ruler’s head. Conclude the day at Nillakgama Bodhigaraya. Built in the 8^th or the 9^th century, this site is the best preserved Bodhigara in the country and remains an impressive testament to the Sinhalese monastic architectural tradition. (B/L/D)

Day 6: Today visit Dambulla, the largest cave complex in Sri Lanka. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple rises 600 feet above the plains and dates back to the 1^st century BC. The complex is composed of five caves converted into shrine rooms, each decorated with paintings and statues of the Buddha. Continue on to the Minneriya Nature Reserve. As the sun sets in the horizon, the water of the reservoir sparkles in the remaining light and the open plains begin to cool, watch as matriarch elephants followed by their herds slowly emerge from the surrounding brush. Soon over a hundred elephants are eating, drinking, bathing and playing. This moment of congregation, known as the Gathering, highlights the wonder of nature. Overnight for three nights at the Heritance Kandalama in Dambulla. This architectural masterpiece by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa is a seamless extension of the mountainside combining modern minimalist sensibilities with the surrounding vegetation and wildlife. (B/L/D)

Day 7: Enjoy the day at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms and was declared the first city of the land in the 11^th century by Vijayabahu I, the king who united the country. Today, the monumental ruins of this fabulous garden-city testify to the discipline and creativity of the kingdom’s first rulers. Built on the shores of a large artificial lake and within a rectangle of fortification walls, the site includes a profusion of palaces and sanctuaries.

Day 8: An early morning climb takes us to the top of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, a fortified palace covers the summit of a 1,000 foot tall granite peak that dominates the surrounding forested countryside. A series of galleries and staircases emerging from the mouth of a gigantic lion constructed of bricks and plaster provide access to the site. The upper palace is perched on the flat top of the rock and contains artificial cisterns that still retain water. The mid-level terrace includes extraordinary frescoes and the impressive Lion Gate. The lower palace clings to the slopes below with exquisitely beautiful moats, walls and gardens encircling the base of the rock. (B/L/D)

Day 9: Begin this morning at the peaceful sanctuary of Nalanda Gedige, a magnificent, pagoda-like structure that holds statues of Ganesh, Buddha and Bodhisattva. Like many temples in Sri Lanka, the architects blended Buddhist and Hindu iconography. Continue on to the rock monastery of Aluvihara, one of the most important cultural sites in Sri Lanka. It was here, in the 1^st century BC, that the Buddhist doctrines – comprising the Tripitikaya or “three baskets of the law” – were first transcribed after having been handed down orally for several centuries.  Arrive late this afternoon in Kandy, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city was the last capital of the Sinhalese Kings from 1592 until the occupation of Sri Lanka by the British in 1815. It remains the religious capital of Buddhism and a sacred city for millions of believers. Overnight in the Hotel Suisse for two nights. This colonial mansion was the residence of the Chief Minister of the Royal Granary in the 17^th century. Later, the structure passed into the hands of the British and eventually was acquired by a Swiss woman who turned it into a guest house. (B/L/D)

Day 10: Spend today exploring Kandy. Located on the northern shores of an artificial lake, the ancient area includes the remains of the Royal Palace with the great Audience Hall. Nearby, view the tooth relic housed in the 17^th century Sri Dalada Maligawa, or The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Next, visit the close by Hindu shrines dedicated to Vishnu, Natha and the goddess Patthini. Wander through a local market, admiring the colorful chaos. Tonight, witness the Esala Perahera Festival, the most dazzling religious extravaganza in Asia. During this spirited Buddhist torchlight parade, whip-cracking porters clear the way through the throngs of pilgrims, followed by fire dancers, jugglers, musicians, stilt walkers, members of noble families in traditional Ceylonese attire, and as many as 100 wildly adorned elephants progress through the streets. One of these goliaths will be carrying the sacred tooth relic of Buddha enshrined in a series of nested jeweled reliquaries. (B/L/D)

Day 11: Kandy’s suburbs have a host of medieval religious buildings. This morning will be spent visiting three of them.  Gadaladeniya Vihara was built in the 14^th century in South Indian design and is renowned for its beautiful carvings. It was originally built to house an image of the Buddha, but when the worship of Vishnu became popular, devotees began to pay homage to that god, turning the temple into a fusion of Buddhism and Hinduism.  Nearby Lankatilaka Viharaya, completed in 1334, is a fine example of Sinhalese temple architecture. The interior walls and ceiling are ornately decorated with floral designs and the inner sanctum contains a huge statue of the seated Buddha. Built completely of wood, Embekke Devale is adorned with more than 500 graceful carvings. The roof of the entrance porch, or vahalkada, is supported by 16 intricately carved timber pillars that UNESCO has identified as the finest woodcarvings to be found in any part of the world. The roof of the shrine has no central beam. Instead the 26 rafters are held together by a giant pin, an exceptional example of medieval carpentry. In the afternoon, leave Kandy and head south into the mountains. Along the way, enjoy a stop at Glenloch Tea Estate which was established in 1917. Enjoy a cup of their classic Ceylon tea and take in the extensive verdant grounds. Overnight for one night at the Jetwing St. Andrew’s Hotel. Built around an old country house which was once a grand colonial residence, the property is hidden away between acres of green mountains and tea plantations. (B/L/D)

Day 12: Start the day in hill town of Bandarawela and visit Dowa Raja Maha Viharaya en route to Kataragama. Thought to have been created in the first century BC, this temple is home to a massive 38 foot tall Buddha Statue carved in granite. The complex consists of an image house built inside a cave made up of three chambers. Early legends say that this cave was a secret hiding place for the king during enemy attacks. The outermost chamber is filled with lively murals from the Kandyan Era. The entrance to the second chamber is decorated with an elaborate Makara Thorana, a mythical figure dating back to pre-Christian times. In the third space, built more recently, a prominent Buddha statue surrounded by wall paintings takes your breath away. Move on to the 10^th century Buduruwagala Temple, where seven colossal figures are carved into a high rock face – the Buddha with three deities and attendants standing on both sides. The gigantic Buddha statue still bears traces of its original stucco and paint on the robe. This evening, attend the puja ceremony of offerings at Kataragama. Overnight at the Mandara Rosen for one night. (B/L/D)

Day 13: This morning depart for Mulkirigala. During the second century BC, a series of temples were carved out of the face of a huge rock outcrop standing more than 650 feet high and overlooking the surrounding plains. The walls are decorated with a mixture of religious and secular paintings and three of the Heavenly Kings are displayed in one of the rooms. Also to be seen are several reclining Buddhas, including one stretching 50 feet in length. In the afternoon, move on to Dondra Devalaya, dedicated to the deity Vishnu, who is said to be the guardian god of Buddhism. According to legend, Devundara was a flourishing city in the time of King Rawana and is connected to the Indian Epic of Ramayana. At the height of its splendor, in the 13^th-15^th centuries, the city of Devundara was a busy seaport and a most renowned place of pilgrimage and worship. The 16^th century, white domed stupa or dondra speaks of the structure’s religious importance. Continue along the south coast and see the Dondra Lighthouse with sweeping vistas overlooking the sea. Next, move on to Matara to view the Star Fort, a construction so named for its shape, a six-pointed star.  In the evening, arrive in Galle. Founded in the 16^th century by the Portuguese, its earliest history can be traced back to the 125 AD. Galle is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and Southeast Asia. In the 17^th century, the Dutch created a defense wall with 14 towers that still encloses the rocky peninsula on which the town sits. Overnight for two nights in the Jetwing Lighthouse which rests atop a magnificent hillock that looks over the Indian Ocean. Tonight dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Day 14: This morning walk the ramparts of the Dutch Fort and then go inside the old city to see the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1640. Next, see Meera Mosque. Originally a church, the structure was built during the Dutch Period in 1904. Despite its concentration of interesting sights, the real charm of Old Galle lies in the quiet back streets and alleyways of the historic fort, which have changed little since colonial times. Many of the streets are lined with formerly opulent buildings characterized by large rooms, arched verandas and windows protected by heavy, wooden-louvered shutters. After lunch, the afternoon is free to enjoy this historic town. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Day 15: Enjoy the beautiful home and extensive gardens of late architect Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most important and influential Asian architects of the 20^th century.  His influence was reiterated by his receipt of the Aga Khan Award in 2001. He is the third architect and the first non-Muslim to be so honored since the award’s inception. This afternoon, transfer to Colombo and enjoy time to explore the city. Overnight at the seafront Galle Face Hotel for three nights. Built in 1864, this colonial hotel maintains the grandeur of a bygone era while incorporating modern comforts. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

Day 16: Spend the day exploring Colombo. Established in 1877, the National Museum is the oldest and largest museum in the country and is the custodian of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Housed in a fine colonial-era building, the museum exhibits a vast collection of Sinhalese artwork, half a million books, more than 4000 archaic palm leaf manuscripts, a rare collection of traditional masks; wood and ivory carvings; temple frescoes; bronze brassware and royal weapons of Sri Lankan kings, ancient royal regalia, and an excellent collection of antique demon masks. Its collection spans several centuries and a range of cultures, from the Sinhala kingdoms through to the British era. Close by is Wolvendaal Church. Constructed in 1749, this structure was built in the form of a Greek cross, with walls 5 feet thick. The Dutch governors had a special pew made with elegant carved ebony chairs. The workmanship in the wooden pulpit, baptismal font and lectern is just as breathtakingly intricate. Even the stone floor includes the elaborate tombstones of five Dutch governors. Next view Jami-ul-Alfar Mosque. Built in 1909, it is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo and is noted for its striking red-and-white striped brick exterior. This afternoon, enjoy time to admire and acquire local goods ranging from bright printed fabrics to footwear and handbags, not to mention scrumptious produce. Gather this evening for our Farewell Dinner. (B/L/D)

Day 17: This morning continue touring Colombo with a visit to the eclectic Gangarama Temple, built in a unique mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese architecture. Continue on to the impressive Independence Square. The afternoon is free to rest or shop. Dinner is on our own. After a late checkout, transfer to the airport for our return flights back to the USA. (B/L)

Day 18: Arrive in the USA.

Tour Cost

***NOTE on trip dates:  Please note that the dates of this trip are organized around the annual Esala Perahara Festival, which is tied to the lunar calendar.  The actual dates of the festival in 2024 will not be published until early 2023.  There is a remote possibility that the dates of trip will be changed to accommodate the final dates of the festival.

$10,295.00 (per person, double occupancy) included hotels, meals as outlined, ground transportation, services of an English-speaking guide, entry fees, and gratuities.

Single Supplement: $1,895.00. Should a roommate be requested and one not be available, the single supplement will be charged.

Cost Does Not Include: International airfare; a separate donation as outlined below; passport or visa fees; airport or departure taxes; food, alcoholic beverages and other drinks not on the regular menu; excess baggage charges; necessary vaccines or tests; laundry, telephone, fax or email charges, and other items of a personal nature.

Fuel Surcharges: Far Horizons must pass on price increases when additional fuel charges are levied.

Donation Checks: As a tour company that benefits from the cultural and natural riches of our destinations, we have a policy of donating to the scientific and cultural projects and museums we visit. This has created a bond between Far Horizons and the academic and local communities that has helped us establish an extensive list of lecturers and contacts in each of our destinations. We ask that each participant write a check to the noteworthy project we designate. The donation amount is $150.00 per person and is made by check directly to the donation project. Note that the donation is required as part of your registration for the trip and that it is non-refundable. We will be designating a donation project for this trip shortly.

Tour Registration

A deposit of $750.00 per person and the separate donation check for $150.00 (made out to the designated project) are required along with your registration form. Final payment is due 120 days before departure. Upon receipt of your deposit and completed registration form, you will be sent a reading list and a tour bulletin containing travel information. Prior to the trip, we will send links to various websites of pertinent interest to the trip. Click here to download our Registration Form.

Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellations received in writing at least 120 days before departure will receive a refund less a $450.00 per person administrative fee. Cancellations received less than 120 days before the departure date will not receive a refund. If for any reason you are unable to complete the trip, Far Horizons will not reimburse any fees. Upon registering for the tour the purchase of travel protection with both trip cancellation and emergency evacuation is strongly advised. Insurance recommended by Far Horizons can be reviewed by clicking HERE.

Air Ticketing

If Far Horizons must change the trip dates or cancel the trip, Far Horizons is not responsible for any air ticket you may have purchased.

Private Tours

The private tours of archaeological sites and museums, and talks by specialists are scheduled in advance and include a donation to each. Specialists working at these sites are excited about showing their work to interested enthusiasts. However, there may be times when the director or a staff member may not be onsite when our groups arrive due to other commitments, or that the date or time of our visit to their project must be changed.

Travel in Sri Lanka

This trip is has been designed to be as comfortable as possible, but Sri Lanka is a developing country. Our bus is well maintained but may not be new. There may be some long days with travel over unpaved or partially paved roads. Extensive walking and climbs of hundreds of stairs may be required to reach some areas, including over steep gradients and poorly maintained paths. All participants are expected to be physically active and able to walk independently throughout our very full touring days. Keeping up with the group is each participant’s responsibility; do not expect assistance from the others. All hotels have been chosen carefully for their charm and location. Not all have a swimming pool. Although Wi-Fi is available at each hotel, at times it may be spotty and only be accessed in public areas and not in rooms. Team spirit and a sense of humor will be provide you with a memorable experience in this fascinating country!

This Archaeological Tour to Sri Lanka is Limited to 14 Participants