Ramayana Package

Arrive at Colombo International Airport. Here, you will be met by an airport representative and designated guide from Esna Holidays. After the formalities at the airport, you will be escorted to your air-conditioned vehicle and then proceed to Chilaw. [Travelling Time: 1 ½ Hours Approx.]

Visit Muneshwaram Temple.

Visit Muneshwaram Legend: Lord Rama after his victorious battle left for Ayodhya in one of King Ravana's Vimanas. He felt he was being followed by Bramahathi Dosham as he killed King Ravana who was a Brahmin. He stopped the Vimana at this juncture because he felt at this place the "Bramahathi Dosham" was not following him. He discended from the Vimana and asked God Shiva for a remedy. God Shiva blessed Lord Rama and advised him to install and pray four lingams in Manavari, Thirukoneshwaram, Thiruketheeswaram and Rameshwaram in India, as the only remedy to get rid of the Dosham.

Manavari Temple

When the Vimana was passing over Munishwaram, he felt the Vimana vibrating, and realized the Brahmaasti Dosham was not following him at this particular point. He stopped the Vimana at this juncture and asked god Lord Shiva for advice. Lord Shiva blessed Lord Rama and advised installing and praying at four lingams located at Manavari, Thiru Koneshwaram, Thiru Ketheshwaram and Rameshwaram in India as the only remedy to get rid of the dosham.

The first lingam was installed at Manavari about 5km from here, near the banks of the Deduru Oya. At the Manavari Temple Chilaw Manavari is the first lingam installed and prayed by Rama and till date this lingam is called as Ramalinga Shivan. Rameshwaram is the only other lingam in world named after Lord Rama.

Check in to the hotel and relax.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Chilaw.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Today you will visit Jaffna. (Leave the hotel by 07.00 am) [Travelling Time: 6 ½ Hours Approx.]

Ram Sethu Bridge.

Situated approximately 30 kilometres from Mannar’s main town on Mannar Island, the Talaimannar Lighthouse was built in the early 20th century, in the year 1915. It stands at 19 meters tall, featuring a round cylindrical tower with a painted white façade, topped with a lantern and gallery. It is attached to the Thalaimannar Pier, which once served as the terminal of a ferry service to India. However, a cyclone in 1964 destroyed the terminal, and the route was subsequently terminated. Today, all that remains of a connection to India is Adam’s Bridge, a stretch of limestone shoals that begins at Mannar Island and disappears under the water in the direction of Pamban Island in India.

Visit the Ketheeswaram Temple

The Ketheeswaram temple (alternatively called Thiruketheeswaram) is an ancient Hindu kovil located in Man nar, in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. It is one of the island’s Pancha Ishwarams (a group of five ancient coastal kovils that were built around the perimeter of Sri Lanka) that were dedicated to the Hindu supreme being Ishawara in the form of the god Shiva. The temple overlooks the ancient Tamil port towns of Manthai and Kudiramalai.

After that proceed to Trincomalee.

Visit Kanniya Hot Springs

The Kanniya Hot Springs is a site with hot wells located in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. There are seven wells in a square shape. Wells are only 3–4 feet deep and you can clearly see the bottom. The temperature is considerably high but vary slightly from one spring to another. Wells run out of water, when 10-15 buckets of water are taken out.

Check in to the hotel and relax.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Trincomalee.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Today you will visit Dambulla [Travelling Time: 1 ½ Hours Approx.]

Visit Koneswaram Temple.

Koneswaram temple of Trincomalee (also historically known as the Thirukonamamalai Konesar Kovil, the Temple of the Thousand Pillars and Thiru-Konamamalai Maccakeswaram Kovil) is a Hindu temple in Trincomalee, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka venerated by Saivites throughout the continent. It is built atop Swami Rock, a rocky promontory cape overlooking Trincomalee, a classical period harbour port town.Visit Shankari Temple The famed SHANKARI Temple, in Sri Lanka, is one of the 18 Devi Temples (Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas). Many have heard the Ashtadasha Shakti Peetha Shloka starting with LANKAAYAAM SHAANKARI DEVI.composed by Sri Adi Shankara which means Shankari in Lanka. This Shloka enumerates the list of places of Devi temples which are considered.

About Shankari Devi Temple

The famed SHANKARI Temple, in Sri Lanka, is one of the 18 Devi Temples (Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas). Many have heard the Ashtadasha Shakti Peetha Shloka starting with LANKAAYAAM SHAANKARI DEVI........... - composed by Sri Adi Shankara which means Shankari in Lanka. This Shloka enumerates the list of places of Devi temples which are considered to be part of the 18 Devi Peethas.

But almost nobody in Sri Lanka knew of any famous Devi Temple in the country. Even on Internet, not much authentic information was available. The temple is said to be in the famed town of Trincomalee on the eastern coast.

The Temple of Sri Shankari Devi according to the priest's in Trincomalee, say that the Portuguese who invaded the island in the 17th century completely cannon balled from their ship and demolished the cliff top Devi temple. In its site stands alone pillar, as a mute spectator.The present Shiva temple which is quite well known locally than the Shankari Temple was a recent construction.

The Shiva is called as TRIKONESHVARA (Probably because it is in Trincomalee which is truly TRI CONA MALAI- meaning triangle shaped hill). There is a small Devi Shrine built adjacent the Shiva temple. The famed Bilva tree which is perched right on the edge of the hill some hundred meters above the Indian Ocean. It is an exhilarating and spectacular sight to behold. All round, silence reflects which is needed most in this war torn nation rightfully called as a paradise. There is also a more famous Kali temple in the heart of the town to which devotees can make a visit en route from the Shankari Temple.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Called by many names including “The Lion Rock” for its initial name of “Sinhagiri”, Sigiriya is near the town of Dambulla and is a colossal column of rock nearly 200m high. It was a royal citadel for 18 years (477-495) when it was fortified by King Kasyapa. The architectural and i

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. (Leave the hotel by 07.00 am) [Travelling Time: 4 ½ Hours Approx.]

Optional - Visit the Spice Garden in Matale

Spice Garden: See why Sri Lanka became a globally popular country for its herbs and spices. The environment possesses excellent conditions for growing cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, peppercorn, and other flavorful delights. Learn about the process of growing these natural products using ecologically friendly methods. At the end of your visit, stop in the souvenir shop to purchase some exotic spices from the source. The attraction offers free transport wherever needed between the city and the estate. Note that the law strictly forbids harming cinnamon trees.

Seetha Kotuwa

These jungles are the places where the city of Lankapura once stood. The city had a beautiful palace for queen Mandothari surrounded by waterfalls, streams and varieties of flora and fauna. Sitadevi was kept in this palace until she was moved to Ashoka Vatika. Sita Kotuwa means Sita’s fort and got its name because of Sita devi’s stay here.

Dunuvila

Dunuwilla is the place from where Lord Rama fired the brahmaastharam at King Ravana, which eventually killed him. Dhunu means arrow and Vila Means Lake. This place got its name because Lord Rama fired his arrow from this lake.

Laggala

The cartels behind the Dunuvila lake are called Laggala. Laggala is derived form the Sinhala term Elakke Gala, which when translated into English gives us the meaning Target Rock. Laggala served as a sentry point to the King Ravana’s army and it was from this rock the first Glimpse of Lord Rama’s army was sighted and informed to King Ravana. This hill is geographically the highest part of the northern region of King Ravana’s city and on a clear day the north east side that is Thiru Koneshwaran and north west side that is Talai mannar could be seen even today. King Ravana is believed to have done meditation on this rock and prayed Lord shiva at Thiru Koneshwaran from this point.

Explore the City of Kandy

Sightseeing in *Kandy, including Upper Lake Drive, Market Crafts Centre, and Gem Museum. Kandy the hill capital, venue of the annual Perahera The last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings was finally ceded to the British in 1815.

Experience the Kandy Cultural Show. – Optional – Subject to availability & Timing.

The Kandy Cultural Show gives an opportunity to experience some of the traditions of Sri Lanka. Enjoy this hour-long extravaganza as some of the most popular art forms of the island take to the stage. Be wowed by fire dancers and sword dancers. Watch the colorful Kandyan dancers take to the air to the thrumming primal beat of the drums.

Visit The Temple of the Sacred Tooth

The Temple of the Sacred

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. [Travelling Time: 2 1/2 Hour Approx.]

Evening Visit Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple

Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple: According to the legend, this is where Hanuman searched for Sita in the jungles above and behind the temple. There is also said to be a pond - the ‘Sita Tear Pond' - here, which was formed from Sita's tears. The temple itself is one of the more enterprising establishments devoted to this legend and contains a granite statue of Lord Hanuman that is said to be over 40 feet tall. It is believed that Lord Hanuman was searching for Sitadevi from these hills of Ramboda. The Ramboda area is believed to be an area where Rama's forces were gathered against Ravana.

Visit Ramboda Falls

Ramboda Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the central province of Sri Lanka, situated between the towns of Pussellawa and Nuwara Eliya. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the country, with a height of approximately 109 meters (358 feet), and is fed by the Panna Oya river. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and steep rock faces, making for a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can view the falls from a nearby bridge or take a short hike to get a closer look. Ramboda Falls is a popular tourist attraction and is considered to be one of the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Visit Ta Factory & Learn about Tea Production.

The production of tea involves a tedious procedure of plucking, withering, rolling, oxidizing and drying – a process that requires heavy machines and plenty of manpower. Once in the tea factory, you would generally start out in the plantation itself to learn about how tea is cultivated, then visit the factory where ancient machines pre-dating the industrial revolution wither, roll and dry the tea. There is normally a little time at the end of the tour for a tea tasting, either of one specific type of tea or occasionally of the various specialties’ of that factory.

Gayathri Peedam Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka

The Gayathri Cathedral also known as SriLankatheeswarar Temple is the very first temple dedicated for Goddess Gayathri. Gayathri Siddhar chose this place because it was a spiritual revelation. It is believed that the Tri Moortis – Siva, Brahma and Vishnu, appeared here when prince Meganath also known as Indrajit, son of an ancient Sri Lankan King Ravana Performed Siva Thapas and Nikumbala Yagna. Therefore, Gayathri Peedam is one of important site of Ramayana Tour of Sri Lanka.

The Gayathri Cathedral situated 7,000 FT above the mean sea level in Nuwara Eliya town is a Colonial township known as the ‘Little England “ for its breezy atmosphere in central province in the island built around a chilly lake surrounded by lush Tea gardens, abundant vegetable cultivation, stunning waterfalls and Virgin woodland.

En route

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Today you will visit Kataragama. [Travelling Time: 2 ½ Hours Approx.]

Visit Hakgala Botanical Garden (Ashoka Vatika)

The Hakgala Botanical Gardens was one of the pleasure gardens of King Ravana. This garden was expanded during the British period and has a wide variety of flowers including an excellent collection of orchids. This is the exotic pleasure garden where King Ravana kept the depressed Sita, insisting that she marries him. It was here where the heartwarming meeting took place between her and Hanuman, who brought her Rama’s ring with the news that Rama was looking for her. He offered to carry her back but she refused saying it would be an insult to Rama’s honor if she did so. Part of this majestic garden still exists. It is also said that Hanuman nearly destroyed it in order to prove to Ravana of the forces against him.

Divurumpola Temple

Still revered by thousands, this holy haven was the place where Sita performed her Agni Pariksha (proving her chastity) to her husband Rama. Continuing the practice for thousands of years, villagers still pledge their fidelity or take oaths there and even in certain courts, this agreement was binding. This place has been respected and worshipped by people down the ages.

Visit Ravana Cave.

The well-known Ravana Cave is where Ravana imprisoned Sita after stealing her. It was formerly hidden by dense forest, but now it is covered by the 82-foot Ravana waterfalls, with a lake at the base where Sita is said to have bathed. An old temple, waterfalls, and a cave may be found at this location. This location is around 6 kilometres from Ella railway station and 11 kilometres from Bandarwela. The cave is positioned 1370 meters above sea level on a rock. Surprisingly, there is a tunnel leading to Ravana Eliya in the rear of the cave. Archaeological research has also proven human occupancy, which dates back 25000 years.

Visit the Ravana Waterfall

The Ravana waterfall measures approximately 25 m (82 ft) in height and cascades from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. During the local wet season, the waterfall turns into what is said to resemble an areca flower with withering petals. But this is not the case in the dry season, where the flow of water reduces dramatically. The falls form part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and is located 6 km (3.7 mi) away from the local railway station at Ella.

After that proceed to Kataragama.

On arrival in Kataragama, Visit Murugan Temple, Kataragama

Kataragama a popular pilgrimage destination frequented by adherents of all religions in Sri Lanka. The main shrine devoted to Skanda popularly described in eulogies as God having six faces and twelve arms whose assistance is sought for worldly gain. The history of the shrine dates to 2 century BC. The annual procession held in July or August is

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. [Travelling Time: 5 ½ Hours Approx.]

Visit Ussangoda

It is believed that Ussangoda during the time of Ramayana, King Ravana used this flat hard land to travel on his Pushpak Vimana from one place to another and also he used this place to park his Pushpak vimana. Sand is red and some stones are black and people believe that hanuman came and burnt the land since then the land turned red. Therefore Ussangoda is a strange coastal area which is one of the most famous. Sri Lanka Ramayana places with an area of its lack of trees where the soil is with blackish color. Also there is another interpretation that during the battle with the Rakshasas, Lord Hanuman’s tail was set on fire which he used to torch parts of Ravana’s empire. Ussangoda is one such barren area where the soil continues to have a blackened Esna Holidays (Private) Limited •www.esnaholidays.com and scorched effect. However, the adjoining area has differently coloured soil and has plant life. The soil in this area still has the blackened , burned scorched effect as a reminder of Lord Hanuman’s escapade. Only specific smaller plants were able to adapt to this soil as it is believed as a serpentine rock contains heavy toxic metals.

Visit Rumasala

According to the Ramayana trail tour Sri Lanka, this abnormal geographical piece believed to be fallen down when Hanuman carried the Dronagiri on his flight back to Lanka Pura in order to use lifesaving Sanjeevani herbs there, to rescue Lakhshmana and Rama who were in need of this medical plant to be treated after suffering severe injuries at their war. Therefor Rumassala is one of the five Sanjivani Mountains in Sri Lanka and important Sri Lanka Ramayana tour site.

Lunch at an outside Indian restaurant.

After that proceed to Colombo.

Kelaniya Temple.

After King Ravana's death, Vibeeshana was coroneted as King of Lanka by Lakshmana at Kelaniya. There are murals enshrined outside the Buddhist temple depicting the crowning of Vibeeshana.

Visit Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple.

Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple is the only Temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar. Hanuman’s mother is Anjan. Hanuman is known as Anjan + Aiyar = Anjaneyar in South India (Hanuman in North India).

Check into the hotel and relax

Overnight stay at your hotel in Colombo.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Explore the City of Colombo

The city tour of Colombo a drive through the city taking you to the busy commercial areas as well as the tree lined residential, Cinnamon Gardens, Visit Fort, the former British administrative centre and military garrison, Sea Street - the Goldsmiths quarters in the heart of Pettah, the Bazaar area, where is also a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, and the Dutch Church of Wolfendhal dating back to 1749. Also visit the BMICH, see the replica of Avukana Buddha & the Independence Square.

Evening Start Shopping in Colombo

The 5-hectare ribbon of beach stripe, the Galle face green is now the largest open space in Colombo that attracts hundreds of tourists and locals alike. Cotton Collection, House of Fashion and Odel, the largest departmental store in the island offers you stylish clothes to cute souvenirs with elegant Sri Lankan touch, also Beverly Street, visit bargain market in Colombo Pettah, Visit Noritake Showroom, Barefoot, Laksala, One Galle Face & Colombo City Center.

After that Proceed to the Airport for your departure flight back home with all the memories you had on this beautiful island. [Travelling Time: 1 Hour Approx.]

End of Tour..