North & East Beaches and Heritage

Ideal For: Cultural Explorers, Archaeology Lovers, Couples & Families 

Duration: 12 days 11 nights

Itinerary Overview

This 12 days program showcases Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures and unspoiled northern and eastern beaches. From ancient capitals and remote islands to vibrant temples, colonial forts, and crystal-clear waters, the tour blends heritage with relaxation. You’ll discover Anuradhapura, Mannar, and Jaffna’s cultural identity before unwinding on the pristine coasts of Trincomalee and Pasikuda, then return inland for Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Minneriya safari. A balanced mix of history, spirituality, and leisure in less-explored regions.

Tour Highlights

Beach leisure in Pasikuda

UNESCO cities: Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya

Remote islands: Mannar & Delft

Jaffna temples, colonial forts & cultural landmarks

Snorkelling & dolphin watching in Trincomalee

Village encounters, silk & craft shops

What’s Included?

Private transport with English-speaking driver-guide

Accommodation with daily breakfast

 

Entrance fees for sites & parks as per itinerary

 

Your Journey At A Glance?

01.  Bandaranayaike Airport

02.  Negombo

03.  Sigiriya

04.  Pasikuda

05.  Trincomalee

06.  Jaffna

07.  Mannar

08.  Bandaranayaike Airport

“Explore Sri Lanka’s hidden north and east heritage cities, sacred temples, and pristine beaches.
Book your 12 Days North & East Discovery for culture, coast, and adventure in one journey.”

DAY 01: Anuradhapura

You will be warmly welcomed at the airport with our warm hospitality and transferred to Anuradhapura, the island’s first ancient capital. The afternoon is at leisure to settle in and enjoy the surroundings of your hotel.

Lake Forest, Anuradhapura

Breakfast

Begin the journey northward towards Mannar. En route, visit Thanthirimale Temple, a serene site with archaeological remains. On Mannar Island, explore the Mannar Dutch Fort, admire the centuries-old Baobab tree, and enjoy birdwatching at Vankalai Sanctuary, a Ramsar wetland teeming with avian life.

Hotel Agape, Mannar

Breakfast

Travel further north to Jaffna, the cultural heart of Tamil Sri Lanka. Visit the Jaffna Dutch Fort, which reflects colonial legacies, and stroll through the lively Jaffna Market, where the atmosphere blends food, crafts, and local trade.

Fox Jaffna by Fox Resorts, Jaffna

Breakfast

Take a boat to Delft Island, where wild ponies, coral walls, and windswept beaches shape a unique landscape. Explore the island by tuk tuk before returning to Jaffna. Later, visit the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, the city’s most revered Hindu shrine, and the iconic Public Library, a symbol of learning and resilience.

Fox Jaffna by Fox Resorts, Jaffna

Breakfast

A long but scenic transfer takes you southeast to Trincomalee. After arrival, the remainder of the day is free to relax by the Indian Ocean and enjoy the comfort of your beachside accommodation.

Nilaveli Beach Hotel, Trincomalee

Breakfast

Spend the morning at Pigeon Island National Park, where snorkelling reveals vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. Depending on conditions, a whale or dolphin watching excursion may be included. Later, visit the sacred Koneswaram Temple overlooking Swami Rock and enjoy a city tour of Trincomalee, where colonial and local heritage intertwine.

Nilaveli Beach Hotel, Trincomalee

Breakfast

Travel south along the eastern coast to Pasikuda, famous for its shallow, turquoise waters and long sandy bay. Relax in your resort setting and enjoy the sunset by the beach.

Hotel in Pasikuda

Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure on Pasikuda’s beaches. The calm lagoon-like waters make it an ideal place to swim and unwind.

Marina Beach, Pasikuda

Breakfast

Head inland to the cultural triangle. Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, and marvel at temples, stupas, and statues by the vast Parakrama Samudraya reservoir.

Kassapa Lions Rock, Sigiriya

Breakfast

In the morning, climb the Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, embark on a village tour that offers an insight into rural Sri Lankan traditions. During the day, visit a silk boutique to see fine handwoven textiles and a craft shop showcasing woodwork and artistry. The afternoon brings an adventurous Minneriya National Park safari, famous for elephant gatherings.

Kassapa Lions Rock, Sigiriya

Breakfast

Depart Sigiriya and en route stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple and Golden Temple, filled with centuries-old frescoes and Buddha statues. Continue to Negombo, a coastal town known for its canals and fishing traditions. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed sunset by the lagoon.

Sico Hotel, Negombo

Breakfast

Before your departure, explore the highlights of Negombo, including the bustling fish market, colonial-era Dutch canal, and St. Mary’s Church with its striking murals. A final drive along the Negombo Lagoon leads you back to the airport for departure.

 

Breakfast

Your Journey At A Glance?

01.  Bandaranayaike Airport

02.  Negombo

03.  Sigiriya

04.  Pasikuda

05.  Trincomalee

06.  Jaffna

07.  Mannar

08.  Bandaranayaike Airport

“Explore Sri Lanka’s hidden north and east heritage cities, sacred temples, and pristine beaches.
Book your 12 Days North & East Discovery for culture, coast, and adventure in one journey.”

Custom Sri Lanka Tours

Flexible tours shaped entirely around your interests, from beaches to safaris.

24/7 Travel Support

We provide 24/7 support with special care for elderly and accessible travel needs.

Transparent Pricing

What you see is what you pay. No surprises, just fair, upfront rates.
Full transparency from booking to return.

Eco-Friendly Travel

We support eco-tourism and local communities with every journey.
Travel responsibly while making a positive impact.

Guided by Experts

Licensed, multilingual guides offer deep insights and authentic Sri Lankan experiences.

Custom Sri Lanka Tours

Flexible tours shaped entirely around your interests, from beaches to safaris.