The Ramayana is a prominent mythological narrative in the Hindu faith that illustrates the life journey of Lord Rama and his wife Sita. This legendary tale holds great significance for Sri Lanka, often referred to as the Island of Ravana. Participating in a Ramayana tour of Sri Lanka provides an opportunity for travelers to embark on a spiritual and cultural journey to the notable sites highlighted in the epic.
Our company, Ceylon Waves, offers a 7-day Ramayana Tour package in Sri Lanka, which includes ten nights of lodging, making it an excellent option for Ramayana devotees and families looking for a getaway. The tour covers various essential Ramayana locations in Sri Lanka throughout the year, including:
Key highlights of this tour include visits to:
Brief Itinerary Overview
A representative from Ceylon Waves will greet you at Katunayake Bandaranayake Airport. Following that, you will head to Chillaw. On the way, you will stop at the Munneswaram Hindu Temple and the Manavari Hindu Temple.Next, you will journey to Anuradhapura City for dinner and an overnight stay
Next, you will proceed to the historic city of Anuradhapura for dinner and an overnight stay.
Munneswaram Temple is a famous Hindu temple situated in Chilaw, a town on the northwest coast of Sri Lanka. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the five ancient temples on the island, collectively known as Pancha Ishwarams.
Legend has it that the temple was established by Lord Rama, the central figure of the Hindu epic, Ramayana. It is believed that during his exile, Lord Rama visited this site and installed the lingam, a sacred representation of Lord Shiva, at the temple. The complex houses several shrines, each honoring a different deity, including Lord Ganesha and Goddess Parvati.
Manavari Temple is a significant Hindu shrine located in the town of Chilaw, Sri Lanka. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is considered the first temple in the world devoted to him. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, attracting thousands of devotees each year.
According to the legend, Lord Rama, the hero of the Ramayana, came to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife, Sita, who had been taken by the demon king Ravana. It is said that during his journey, Lord Rama prayed to Lord Shiva at various locations, including Manavari Temple. It is believed that he installed a lingam, a sacred emblem of Lord Shiva, which still exists today.
The temple complex features several shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Parvati. The main shrine, the Manavari Shrine, is thought to house the original lingam installed by Lord Rama. This shrine is beautifully adorned with intricate carvings and decorations depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
The Manavari Temple is a crucial pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly those from South India. The temple's annual festival, Maha Shivaratri, is celebrated with great enthusiasm, drawing thousands of devotees who gather to offer prayers and perform rituals.
On this morning, you will explore Atamasthana, the eight of eight sacred sites in Anuradhapura. Then, you will travel to Trincomalee, the capital of Eastern Sri Lanka, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Anuradhapura is an ancient city in Sri Lanka, established in the 4th century BCE and served as the country’s capital for over 1,000 years. It is recognized as one of the holiest cities in Sri Lanka and hosts many significant Buddhist sites.
The Atamasthana, or “eight places,” refers to a collection of eight sacred Buddhist sites in Anuradhapura that are believed to have been visited by the Buddha himself during his three visits to Sri Lanka. These sites include the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, said to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, as well as several ancient stupas and temples.
Today, Anuradhapura and the Atamasthana are popular tourist destinations and important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists globally. The ancient city is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and cultural importance.
Thirukoneswaram Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. It is believed to have been constructed over 2,000 years ago and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the primary deities in Hinduism.
The temple is located on a rocky promontory that overlooks the Indian Ocean and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. It is known for its intricate carvings, vibrant architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. Thirukoneshwaram Temple holds significant importance for the Tamil community in Sri Lanka and serves as a major pilgrimage site during the Hindu festival of Maha Shivaratri. Alongside its religious significance, the temple attracts numerous tourists, offering them an opportunity to experience its unique blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality.
On the third day, you will journey from Trincomalee to Kandy. During this trip, you will visit Dambulla Cave Temple and Matale Spice Garden. Upon reaching Kandy, you will have the opportunity to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in the evening. Later, you will check into your hotel in Kandy to conclude the day.
Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a Buddhist temple located in the central region of Sri Lanka. This temple is set in a vast cave complex and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved cave temple complexes in the country.
The temple complex comprises five main caves, each filled with numerous statues and paintings that depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. The temple also contains over 150 Buddha statues, including a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha carved from rock.
The walls and ceilings of the caves are adorned with elaborate murals and frescoes illustrating various scenes from Buddhist mythology and Sri Lankan history. These artistic works are regarded as some of the most significant examples of ancient Buddhist art in Sri Lanka.
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and draws thousands of visitors annually, both tourists and pilgrims. It is deemed a must-visit attraction in Sri Lanka for its historical and cultural significance, stunning art and architecture, and serene atmosphere.
Matale National Spice Garden is a botanical garden located in the city of Matale, Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its extensive collection of spices and medicinal plants, many of which are indigenous to Sri Lanka.
The garden spans several acres and features a variety of spice trees, including cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, and clove, alongside exotic plants such as vanilla and cardamom. Visitors can take guided tours of the garden to learn about the various spices and their uses in traditional medicine and cooking.
In addition to the spice garden, there is a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase an array of spices and herbal remedies, along with traditional handicrafts and mementos.
The Matale National Spice Garden is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka and is a must-visit for those interested in the rich history and culture of spice cultivation in the country
The Temple of the Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a Buddhist temple located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is considered one of the most sacred temples in the country and is believed to house the tooth relic of the Buddha.
The temple complex consists of several buildings, including a shrine room that houses the tooth relic, as well as a museum and library. The shrine room is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting the life and teachings of Lord Buddha, showcasing the artistry of traditional Sri Lankan architecture.
The temple is also famous for its elaborate annual Esala Perahera festival, which occurs every summer and features a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and performers, accompanied by the sacred tooth relic and various other relics and artifacts from the temple.
The Temple of the Tooth Relic is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting thousands of visitors each year, both tourists and pilgrims. It is considered a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka due to its historical and cultural importance, stunning architecture, and tranquil atmosphere.
On the morning of this day, you will travel from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. Along the way, you will visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden and the Bhakta Hanuman Temple in Ramboda. You will also see a beautiful waterfall and a tea factory. After these visits, you will arrive in Nuwara Eliya. Following your exploration of the city, you will check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya is a botanical garden located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It ranks among the largest botanical gardens in Asia and is celebrated for its diverse collection of plants and trees, featuring over 4,000 species.
Spanning 147 acres, the garden includes various sections such as the ornamental garden, spice garden, medicinal garden, and orchid house. The garden is home to numerous tree species, including palm, bamboo, and rubber trees, as well as various orchids, ferns, and tropical plants.
Visitors can take guided tours of the garden to learn about the various plants and their uses while exploring the many walking paths that meander through the area. The garden also features several attractions, such as the giant Javan fig tree, the royal palm avenue, and a suspension bridge over the Mahaweli River.
The Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya is a sought-after tourist attraction in Sri Lanka and is considered an essential destination for those interested in horticulture, botany, and the natural beauty of the country.
The Bhaktha Hanuman Temple is a prominent Hindu temple situated in Ramboda, Sri Lanka. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, who is venerated for his strength, devotion, and loyalty. The temple features a large statue of Hanuman that stands over 45 feet tall, making it one of the largest Hanuman statues in Sri Lanka. Visitors frequent the temple to offer prayers, seek blessings, and admire the impressive architecture amid stunning natural surroundings. The temple is located in lush green hills, overlooking a beautiful landscape of tea plantations, waterfalls, and valleys.
The Bhakta Hanuman Temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and is especially popular among devotees who revere Hanuman for his role in the epic Ramayana. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.
Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town situated in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Often referred to as “Little England,” it is known for its cool climate, lush tea plantations, and colonial-era architecture. The town is set at an elevation of approximately 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in Sri Lanka.
Nuwara Eliya is famous for its tea production and is home to several tea estates that produce some of the finest tea in the world. Visitors can take guided tours of the tea plantations to learn about the tea-making process and sample various types of tea.
In addition to tea, Nuwara Eliya is also known for its stunning landscapes, including picturesque gardens, lakes, and waterfalls. Popular attractions in the area include Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and the picturesque Horton Plains National Park, which is famous for its unique ecosystem and the breathtaking “World’s End” viewpoint.
Nuwara Eliya is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering various outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
On this day, you will leave Nuwara Eliya for a journey to Colombo. You will stop at Ella and see the Nine Arches Bridge and the tea plantations, where you can enjoy a cup of tea. Upon arrival in Colombo, you will check into your hotel for an overnight stay
The Nine Arches Bridge is an iconic railway bridge located in Ella, Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its stunning architectural design, featuring nine arches that span a valley surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations. The bridge was built during the British colonial era in the early 20th century and is a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors to the Nine Arches Bridge can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and observe trains crossing the bridge. It is a favored spot for photography and offers a unique opportunity to witness the scenic beauty of the Sri Lankan highlands.
Thirukoneswaram Temple, located on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Believed to be over 2,000 years old, it is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural surroundings.
On the final day of your trip, you will visit the National Museum and the Galle Face Green in Colombo before heading to the airport for your departure.
The National Museum of Colombo, officially known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, is the largest museum in Sri Lanka and serves as a treasure trove of the country's rich history and culture. Founded in 1877, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, art, and historical items spanning over 2,500 years.
The museum’s galleries showcase various exhibits, including ancient Sri Lankan artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and traditional costumes. A highlight of the museum is the collection of regalia and artifacts from the Kandyan period, offering insight into the country's royal history.
In addition to the main museum, the complex also houses several other institutions, including the Natural History Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, which focus on the country’s diverse flora and fauna.
The National Museum of Colombo is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and history, making it an essential part of any trip to the capital.
Galle Face Green is a popular urban park located along the coastline of Colombo, Sri Lanka. This expansive stretch of green space offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and serves as a gathering place for both locals and tourists.
The park is lined with palm trees and features ample open areas for picnics, walking, and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the promenade, savor street food from vendors, or simply relax and take in the beautiful sunset over the ocean.
Galle Face Green is a vibrant hub of activity, especially in the evenings when families and friends gather to socialize, and various cultural events and festivals take place. It is an ideal spot for anyone looking to experience the lively atmosphere of Colombo while enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.
