Northern Heritage

Overview

The Northern Heritage journey through Sri Lanka uncovers coastal beauty, ancient capitals and vibrant Tamil culture. Begin with quiet beaches along the northwest coast before stepping into the wilderness of Wilpattu National Park. Explore the historic city of Anuradhapura, the charm of Mannar and the traditions of Jaffna. Highlights include Jaffna Fort, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a ferry to Delft Island and a visit to Point Pedro, the northern tip of the island. The adventure flows southward with relaxing days in Trincomalee, exploration in Dambulla and a reflective close near Kotugoda. Route Arrival/Kalpitiya - Wilpattu - Anuradhapura - Mannar - Jaffna - Delft Island/Point Pedro - Keerimalai/Naguleswaram/Casuarina Beach - Trincomalee - Dambulla - Kotugoda/Departure

Jaffna Fort
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil
Delft Island
Mannar birdwatching, and local cooking classes.

Accommodation
Private Driver/Guide
Breakfast & Dinner
Entrance Tickets
Airport Pick-up
Airport Drop-off
Government Taxes

International airfare
Travel insurance
Entry fees to attractions in Sri Lanka not listed above
Lunch during the tour
Meals not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary
Additional services or personal expenses at the hotel
Visa-related costs or arrangements

Itinerary

Day 1: Kalpitiya - Arrival & Coastal Escape

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to Kalpitiya on the northwest coast. Unwind by the lagoon, enjoy a sunset walk, or try a dolphin-watching boat ride if time permits. Kalpitiya is a tranquil spot known for its beaches and mangroves. Overnight in Kalpitiya.

Day 2: Wilpattu National Park - Safari Adventure

Travel to Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest national park. Enjoy a thrilling jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, and sloth bears in their natural habitat. The park is also home to many lakes that attract migratory birds. Return to Kalpitiya for your overnight stay.

Day 3: Anuradhapura - Ancient Capitals

Head inland to the historic city of Anuradhapura. Explore its magnificent stupas, temples, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. Learn about the city’s role as the cradle of Sinhala Buddhist civilization. Overnight in Anuradhapura.

Day 4: Mannar - Coastal Heritage

Drive to Mannar, an island linked by a causeway. Visit the giant baobab tree, Adam’s Bridge (Rama’s Bridge), and Mannar Fort. Experience the windswept charm of this unique region. Overnight in Mannar.

Day 5: Jaffna - City & Culture

Fly or drive to Jaffna, where Tamil culture thrives. Visit the bustling local market filled with spices, produce and vibrant energy. Stroll through colonial streets with Portuguese and Dutch influences. Sample authentic Jaffna cuisine to round off the day.

Day 6: Jaffna - Forts and Temples

Begin with a visit to Jaffna Fort, a reminder of the region’s layered history. Continue to Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a grand Hindu temple. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of traditional music and dance. This day celebrates Jaffna’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

Day 7: Point Pedro & Delft Island - Northern Edge Exploration

Take a ferry to Delft Island, known for its wild ponies, coral walls and colonial ruins. Cycle across the island to uncover its hidden history. Travel to Point Pedro, the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka. Return enriched by coastal landscapes and local stories.

Day 8: Keerimalai & Casuarina Beach - Spiritual Renewal

Visit the healing waters of Keerimalai Springs and the sacred Naguleswaram Temple. Learn about centuries-old Hindu traditions tied to the site. Spend the afternoon at Casuarina Beach, one of Jaffna’s most beautiful stretches. Balance spirituality with coastal relaxation.

Day 9: Trincomalee - Departure

Travel south with a scenic stop in Trincomalee, home to white-sand beaches and the ancient Koneswaram Temple. Depending on flight time, enjoy a quick tour or beach relaxation. Continue to Colombo or Katunayake International Airport for departure.