Epic Ramayana Tales

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your Lush Country Expeditions representative. Transfer to Negombo, a coastal town famed for its lagoon, sandy beaches, and vibrant fish markets. Check into a boutique beachfront hotel and unwind from your flight. Evening options include a sunset stroll along the beach, sampling local seafood, or simply relaxing in your resort.

Begin with a drive to Chilaw, visiting the historic Munneswaram Temple and Manavari Temple, important sites in the Ramayana legend. Enjoy guided explanations of local rituals and temple architecture. Continue to Kandy, passing lush highland scenery and small villages. Check into a heritage hotel overlooking the lake and take an evening walk to soak in the city’s serene hilltop ambience.

Visit Sri Baktha Hanuman Kovil, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, rich in mythology and devotion. Continue to the highlands, arriving in Nuwara Eliya, the “Little England” of Sri Lanka. Explore the Seetha Amman Temple, believed to be the site where Sita awaited rescue, and wander its serene surroundings, experiencing rituals, floral offerings, and local legends. Overnight at a boutique estate bungalow amidst tea gardens.

Drive to Bandarawela and visit Divurumpola, the sacred site where Sita is said to have proven her chastity, as well as the Gayathri Peedam, a peaceful highland sanctuary. Stroll through misty hills and tea plantations, taking in the cool mountain air. Optional cultural interactions include a visit to a local village and tasting traditional highland delicacies. Overnight in a hill country boutique lodge.

Travel through the scenic hill country to Ella. Stop at the Ravana Falls and Ravana Caves, legendary sites entwined with the Ramayana saga. Continue south to Kataragama, an important pilgrimage town, arriving in time for sunset rituals at the Kataragama Temple. Experience the spiritual atmosphere with temple ceremonies, drumming, and candle-lit offerings. Overnight near Kataragama in a boutique lodge with views of the surrounding wilderness.

Head toward the southern coast, stopping at Ussangoda, a striking coastal rock formation tied to ancient legends, and Rumasela, a site steeped in Ramayana history. Visit the Seenigama Temple overlooking the sea before arriving in Galle, where the Galle Fort offers colonial architecture and ocean vistas. Continue to Colombo, stopping at Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple, a powerful center of devotion. Check into a city hotel and enjoy your last evening exploring Colombo’s streets, markets, and dining options.

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure. Leave with memories of sacred landscapes, legendary tales, and intimate encounters with Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.