Sri Lanka is multicultural and beautifully influenced by its history, past invasions and reputation as a travel and trading hub of the old world. The island’s customs reflect a rich potpourri of cultures and beliefs, a blend of etiquettes, rituals, linguistics and traditions, shaped over two millennia of history.
Past dynasties, predominantly reflected within the cultural triangle of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, reveal the deep-rooted heritage. The colonial past of a Portuguese, Dutch and later English colony together with a multi ethnic society add further layers to the island’s identity, weaving a tapestry of tradition and modernity.
Our curated cultural excursions and local experiences are privately guided by our naturalist, community-based location guides and hosts, often, microentrepreneurs and underprivileged households. Some experiences are in the company of experts in the fields of archeology, museology and history.
Our local experiences are designed to ensure that our tourism revenue is filtered back into local communities as part of our high positive impact travel policies.
Itinerary highlights
Explore the spectacular 2400-year-old archaeological ruins of one of the world’s grandest monastic cities, Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with highlights including a visit to the sacred Bo-tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment and the magnificent bell-shaped Stupas (Dagobas) almost rivalling the great Pyramids of Egypt.
Explore the stunning Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Site, the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura between 11th and 13th Century, revealing the influence of Hinduism and the country's main faith - Buddhism.
Trek to the summit of the iconic Lion Rock in Sigiriya, a World Heritage Site where King Kasyapa built a rock fortress in the 5th century with an entrance through a giant Lions Paw, a mirror wall and frescoes.
Explore the Dambulla cave temple with an experienced guide who will provide some lovely insights into the caves, the art, and Buddha's meditating poses. It is the largest cave temple complex dating back to the 1st century BC and has been monastic dwellings for 22 centuries continuously.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, dating back to the early 13th century, where the sacred tooth of the Buddha is enshrined and is one of the most sacred sites on the island.
Tour Galle, World Heritage Site, navigating through the fort’s charming alleyways with insights on the fascinating blend of local design traditions and European colonial influence in architecture, living heritage of the Fort and highlights of its labyrinth of cobblestoned streets.
Visit the Colombo National Museum, Sri Lanka’s largest and most important museum, established in 1877, in the company of a museologist. Highlights include royal regalia of the Kandyan kings, 19th-century furniture, traditional masks, and ancient stone sculptures.
Explore the streets of Colombo to gain insight into colonial-era landmarks including fort and Pettah.
Visit the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, a sacred Buddhist temple believed to have been visited by the Buddha on his third and final visit to Sri Lanka. Observe the striking murals, the temple’s majestic dagoba and local rituals and offerings.
Visit the Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese and later captured by the Dutch to explore old tunnels, bell posts, and other nooks.
Visit Fort Frederick in Trincomalee built by the Portuguese on Swami Rock Konamamalai from the debris of the world-famous ancient Hindu Koneswaram temple that was destroyed by the Portuguese.
Farm to table moments - visit a local vegetable farmer and learn to cook like the locals to gain insights into their lives, rural livelihoods and secrets of local cuisine.
Visit local artisans to learn about their craft, and in turn, supplement their humble livelihoods.