Relive the Epic Ramayana

DAY 1

Welcome to Sri Lanka

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be met by our representative and will be transferred to your hotel in Negombo – a fishing town just under 30 minutes’ drive from the Airport. Enjoy the comforts of your hotel and the surroundings to overcome the jetlag after a long flight.

Overnight stay in Negombo

DAY 2

Ramayana Trail Begins

Your Ramayana trail begins with a journey to Chilaw, where you’ll visit the historic Munneswaram Temple. According to legend, after defeating King Ravana, Lord Rama felt the presence of Bramhaasthi Dosham, as he had killed a Brahmin. To seek relief, he sought the blessings of Lord Shiva, who instructed him to build four lingams and begin praying. Munneswaram is where Lord Rama first stopped the vimana and was blessed by Shiva.

Next, you’ll visit Manavari Temple, home to one of the first lingams installed by Lord Rama, known as Ramalinga Shivan. Afterward, you’ll proceed to Kandy, where you’ll check into your hotel for the night, preparing for the next part of the journey. Enjoy your overnight stay in Kandy, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

Let the adventure continue!

DAY 3

Temple Visits Nuwara Eliya

Your day begins with a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya, known for its lush landscapes and spiritual landmarks. Along the way, you’ll visit the Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple in Ramboda, where Hanuman searched for Sita Devi. This temple honors Hanuman’s devotion and the role he played in the Ramayana.

Next, you’ll visit Mani Kattuther, a significant rock formation in Labukalle Estate. It is believed that Hanuman rested here after meeting Sita and delivering the joyful news to Lord Rama. Today, an open temple with statues of Lord Rama, Sita Devi, Lakshmana, and Lord Hanuman stands atop the hill, marking this sacred spot.

In the evening, you’ll explore the Gayathri Peedam, a place of great reverence where King Ravana’s son, Meghanath, performed penance and poojas to Lord Shiva, gaining supernatural powers. This spiritual journey culminates in an overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya, allowing you to soak in the serene and mystical surroundings.

DAY 4

Seetha Amman Temple

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Seetha Amman Temple (Seetha Eliya), a sacred site believed to be where Sita was held captive by Ravana. The temple’s distinctive architecture and ancient statues of Rama and Sita capture the eye, and the nearby stream is said to have provided for Sita during her stay at Ashoka Vatika. By the river, you can find footprints believed to be those of Lord Hanuman, adding to the significance of the location.

The rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel or explore a nearby tea factory, where you can enjoy a fresh cup of Ceylonese tea while surrounded by lush tea fields. You’ll then settle in for another peaceful overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya, embracing the serene highlands.

DAY 5

Divirumpola & Pleasure Garden of King Ravana

Your day begins with a visit to Divurumpola, a sacred site where Sita Devi underwent the fire ordeal to prove her chastity after being freed from Ravana. She emerged unscathed, demonstrating her purity and devotion. This site is revered for oaths and is deeply rooted in the Ramayana’s story.

Next, you’ll explore the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, believed to be the pleasure garden of King Ravana. It is said that Ravana kept Sita here, hoping she would agree to marry him. It was also the place where Sita met Hanuman, who delivered Rama’s ring and news of his search for her. Despite Hanuman’s offer to carry her back, she refused, believing it would dishonor Rama.

Afterward, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the charming town of Nuwara Eliya before returning to your hotel for the night.

DAY 6

Lord Rama’s Footprints in Ashok Vathika

Your journey continues with a scenic drive from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, a beautiful 2-hour trip through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands. After settling into your hotel, you’ll visit the stunning Ravana Ella Falls, a majestic waterfall that cascades from a height of 1,080 feet, creating multiple smaller falls. According to legend, the falls and nearby caves once housed King Ravana.

Next, you’ll explore the Ravana Caves, where the intricate tunnel system showcases King Ravana’s architectural brilliance. These tunnels, believed to connect cities, airports, and other important locations, demonstrate his advanced engineering. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past, combining both natural beauty and history.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Ella, where the cool climate and scenic vistas provide the perfect backdrop to end your day.

DAY 7

Kataragama & Ussangoda

After breakfast, you’ll travel from Ella to Kataragama, a 2-hour drive, and check into your hotel. Your first stop will be the Kataragama Shrine, dedicated to Lord Skanda (Murugan), the God of Love and War. According to legend, Lord Kataragama came from India, married a jungle girl in Sri Lanka, and made this sacred place his home.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Ussangoda, a site linked to the Ramayana. It is believed that after meeting Sita, Lord Hanuman tested the strength of Ravana’s army. During the battle, one of Ravana’s soldiers set Hanuman’s tail on fire, and in retaliation, Hanuman set Ravana’s empire ablaze.

You’ll conclude the day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Kataragama, immersed in the rich mythology of the region.

DAY 8

Rumassala

After breakfast, you’ll check out of your hotel and head to Rumassala in Galle. According to legend, during the Ramayana war, when both Rama and Lakshmana were struck by arrows and left unconscious, Hanuman was sent to fetch lifesaving herbs from the Himalayas. Unable to identify the specific herbs, he lifted an entire hill, and pieces of it are said to have fallen in five places in Sri Lanka, including Rumassala.

Next, you’ll visit the Seenigama Temple, believed to be the site where Sugreeva, the king of the Vanaras (monkeys), launched his assault on Ravana’s forces. Afterward, you’ll continue your journey to Colombo, where you’ll settle in for an overnight stay, concluding another eventful day on the Ramayana trail.

DAY 9

Temple Visits – Colombo

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Panchmuga Anjaneyar Temple, dedicated to Anjaneyar (Hanuman), which is unique for having a chariot specifically for the deity. It is the only temple of its kind in the world.

Next, you’ll head to the Kelaniya Temple, where King Vibhishana ruled after being crowned by Prince Lakshmana, as Lord Rama, being in exile, could not attend the ceremony. The site now hosts a Buddhist shrine and a temple dedicated to King Vibhishana, with murals depicting his coronation.

Later, you can enjoy a shopping spree in Colombo before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 10

Departure Sri Lanka

On your final day in Colombo, you can relax and enjoy the comforts of your hotel after breakfast. Your guide will meet you in the lobby at the scheduled time to drive you to Colombo International Airport for your departing flight home.

As you prepare to leave, take with you 10 days of unforgettable memories and a collection of beautiful pictures to cherish your journey along the Ramayana trails in Sri Lanka. Safe travels, and may your experiences inspire you until you visit again!