Visit Anuradhapura, the country’s first kingdom, which is well-known for the well-preserved remnants of a long-gone Sri Lankan civilization. The city is home to the world’s oldest known tree, which was cultivated from a branch of the same tree where the Buddha received his enlightenment from 2,500 years ago. It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for many centuries served as the epicentre of Theravada Buddhism. Relic chambers such as Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya are the greatest examples of man-made brick constructions worldwide. 

furthermore explore the Mihintale Buddhist Monastery and Aukana, the tallest ancient Buddha statue in Sri Lanka.

Highlights

• See the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest known tree.
• Witness the technical marvel of Tissa Wewa, a human-made reservoir constructed by King Devanampiya Tissa that enabled irrigation.
• View Sri Lanka’s largest stupas, including Ruwanwelisaya and Miriswatiya Dagoba.
• The main stupa built over Lord Buddha’s footprint is the Abhayagiri Stupa, located within the Abhayagiri Monastery Complex.
• Visit Aukana to see the tallest standing Buddha statue.

Brief Tour Schedule:

7.00 Am – Hotel pick (Depending on your Location this may earlier or later)
8.30 Am – Visit Aukana – the tallest ancient Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. (Entry fees included)
1.00 Pm – Lunch at local restaurent
2.30 Pm – Visit the Mihintale Buddhist monastery.
4.00 Pm – We’ll return you to your hotel. Reach the hotel at around 6.00 Pm

Include:

• Hotel pick up and drop off (By Car or Van)
• Service of an English-speaking site guide
• Anuradhapura heritage site, Aukana & Mihintale Entrance fees
• Water bottles
• Lunch  
• All service fee and government taxes

Exclude:

• Expenses of personal nature
• Gratuities (Recommended)

Explore the amazing ruins of the ancient Anuradhapura, Aukana, and Mihintale.

A full day trip covering all the historical sites of the erstwhile ancient capital from your point of origin to Anuradhapura. As soon as you get to Anuradhapura in the morning, you will go to:

The sacred Bo tree, or Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is the tree that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under. It was brought by Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, from the main stem of the Bodhi tree in India. After receiving this sapling, King Devanampia Tissa ceremoniously planted it at its current location. 

After that, you will go to the Lovamahapaya, also known as Brazen Palace, which is a nine-story structure surrounded by stone pillars and was constructed by King Dutugemunu. The reason this building was given the name “Brazen Palace” was due to its copper or bronze roof tiles. This palace was built to accommodate one thousand monks and attendants, offering lodging, medical attention, and facilities for the wounded. 

The oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, is the next site to be visited. Ruwanwelisaya is regarded as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s past architectural grandeur. Ruwanwelisaya, sometimes referred to as the Great Stupa, was constructed in 140 BC by the victorious King Dutugemunu. This stupa is evidence of his ambitious project’s unmatched contribution to the resurgence of Buddhism in the nation. 

After that, you will visit Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir constructed in the third century BC by King Devanampiya Tissa to supply water to the king’s royal gardens and to augment the city of Anuradhapura’s water supply. After that, this reservoir was enlarged and included into an irrigation system consisting of canals. 

You will be taken to see Miriswatiya Dagoba, the first monument constructed by King Dutugemunu, from this location. On the seventh day of the water festival at the Tissa Wewa, an elaborate sword containing a sacred relic of Buddha was left implanted on the bank following his consecration. After returning from his bath at the reservoir, the king struggled to draw his sword multiple times, leading them to conclude that it was a miracle. For this reason, a dagoba was erected around the sword. 

The trip to the Thuparama Temple comes next. It was the first stupa constructed in Sri Lanka following the arrival of Buddhism, making it the oldest. The king, Devanampiya Tissa, constructed it. Possibly the smallest stupa on the island, if not the entire globe, is the Thuparama stupa. Because Mahinda, the son of Indian King Ashoka, is said to have brought the right collarbone relic of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka, it is revered by Buddhists.

After that, you will be shown the renowned Moonstone, which is located in the Abayagiri Monastery at the top of the main staircase on the central structure. One of the greatest and best-preserved works of art from the 7th and 8th centuries is this moonstone. The Guardstone then comes into view. When the South Indian invasions occurred, the Rathna Prasada—once the biggest structure in the Abhayagiriyi monastery—was destroyed. Over time, the succeeding monarchs managed to conserve and maintain a few remnants. Among these is a finely sculpted guardstone that features a god king shielded by a five-headed cobra (Naga Gala) clutching a vase filled with flowers, symbolising wealth.

Then you enter the Abhayagiri Monastery Complex, which was constructed by Vattagamini Abhaya, a Sinhalese king, and is the biggest monastery complex in the Anuradhapura kingdom. The main stupa in this complex, Abhayagiri Stupa, was built over the footprint of Lord Buddha. There’s also a portion of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. When it was first constructed, the stupa stood 370 feet tall, making it the second-tallest on the island. The new museum at Abhayagiri Monastery was founded in Fa-hsien’s honour to house and display the gold and gem- and crystal-encrusted jewellery and ornaments found during the excavations. The idea behind this museum’s creation was to preserve all artefacts and archaeological treasures unearthed during archaeological digs.

You will see the Samadhi Buddha Statue, a famous example of Sinhalese art and sculpture, after touring this complex. Standing at a height of two metres, this granite stone carving represents the position of meditation (Samadhi), which is linked to the Buddha’s initial realisation. It is one of the four Buddha statues positioned around the Bodhi tree, facing the four cardinal directions.

The stunning Jetavaranama stupa, which was constructed in the third century and was the largest brick structure in the world overall, will next be seen, along with the monastery. This massive bulbous stupa, made up of more than 90 million bricks, can inspire feelings of calm and tranquilly by encouraging introspection and a sense of connecting to the past. Because of this, it is definitely worth a visit, as the size of its structure demonstrates the achievement and tenacity of the era. The ruins of a monastery that once held three thousand monks stand all around it.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to Kuttam Pokuna, also referred to as the “Twin Ponds.” It is an eighteenth-century architectural landscape designed to serve as a swimming pool with terraces for the monks.

We’re going to take you out to lunch at 1:00 p.m.

Following lunch, the day tour will include a visit to Isurumuniya Viharaya. The picturesque Isurumuniya Viharaya is a temple that is partially built into a cave with a cliff above it. Elephants are intricately carved into the rock at the front of the cliff that appears to be rising out of a lovely pond. The most well-known carving in the temple is called “Isurumuniya Lovers,” and it was created on a granite slab that has been taken to the Archaeological Museum. The temple is a treasure trove of exquisite carvings.

You will be taken to the Aukana Buddha Statue or to Mihintale. The trip will take one hour.

As the birthplace of Buddhism, Mihintale is a popular destination for Buddhists worldwide and in Sri Lanka. In addition to pilgrims, tourists come to this location and ascend its hill to see the various monastic religious shrines, which include a magnificent 40-foot stupa that was constructed in the first century BC in honour of its significance.

The Aukana Buddha Statue is considered to be among Sri Lanka’s tallest standing Buddha statues, according to historical accounts. With its enormous height of 42 feet, the Buddha statue is a magnificent sculpture that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of the artisans.

By evening, when the tour comes to an end, you will travel back to your original destination from Anuradhapura.

Duration: 10 hours

Know before you go

> You must bring a valid passport for entering the sites

> A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Departure Time Comments:

• Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time.
• Pick up time will be changed according to the Pick up location and due to local traffic conditions.

Departure Locations:

Return Location:
Returns to original departure point

Suitable for children: Yes.

• Children below 5 years are complimentary when accompanied by a paying adult. 
• Child above 11 years apply for Adult ticket.
• All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What to wear:
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

What to bring along:
Passport, A cap or Hat, sunscreen, drinking water and a camera

Cancellation and Refund policy 

• Cancellations received 15 days (or more) of departure will incur a penalty of 10% per person.
• Cancellations received within 14 days of departure will incur a penalty of 50% per person.
• Cancellations received within 7 days of departure will incur a penalty of 75% per person.
• Cancellations received within 5 days of departure will incur a penalty of 100% per person.
• Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
  More Details…

Additional Tour Information:

• For Same day & Next day bookings, Please you must contact us by Call or SMS / WhatsApp with mention exact pickup Location to +94776487757
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Please include your Mobile / Local contact number & Hotel pickup details at the booking

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There is “Magic in the Air” in the Cultural Triangle, what better way to see all that our beautiful countryside has to offer than with an early morning sunrise hot air balloon flight ! If you are lucky enough to visit the beautiful island of Sri Lanka then you should take the opportunity to see the wondrous sights from the air starting from Kandalama, Dambulla in the Cultural Triangle.

Wondered what it would be like to be a cloud ? Find out firsthand with an exciting hot air balloon ride by Sun Rise Ballooning. Not only will you experience the thrill of a wingless flight, but you will be able to see all of the area’s great attractions and breathtaking views !

As you gently leave the bonds of earth, you will float effortlessly over jungles, lakes and waterways as day breaks with the awakening of wildlife and villagers waving as you fly over their homes and the colours of nature.

Flying over the jungle you may see elephants roaming freely, variety of birds, wild life, water buffaloes standing in the paddy fields and monkeys swinging from the trees.

After an exhilarating flight over the jungle you will be welcomed on landing by friendly villagers who are happy to meet and greet you. Your Pilot will toast the flight with a glass of champagne after which our transport will take you back to your hotel.

You will have the rest of the day to visit around Sigiriya, Habarana and include a safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks. (Not Include the Tour)

Include:

• 1 hour Hot Air Balloon Flight Fees
• Celebratory Champagne & Juice
• Chilled bottled water
• Free Hotel pickup and drop-off (Kandalama / Dambulla/ Sigiriya & Habarana Hotels)

Exclude:

• Food and drink
• Hotel pickup and drop-off additional fee, if outside of free area.Please contact us with your hotel name and address.

Flight information:

November to April – Daily flights during the season weather permitting in the Cultural Triangle. Your Hot Air Balloon Flight is approximately one hour and it will take up to a maximum of 4 hours from the time of pick up ie: between 4.45am to 5.15 am depending on your location, to the time you are dropped off at your hotel after the flight.

Our normal launch site is in Kandalama, however, depending on the direction and speed of the winds, Pilots at their discretion, will change launch sites

Pick up points are: Habarana, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandalama

Season:
2023 &  2024 >  20th October to end of April.

Price:
Adult – 260 USD Adult
Child – 205 USD (Ages 7 – 11 Year) 

Minimum age of kids is 7 years old.
* Teenagers under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult and kids under 7 years old and pregnant ladies will not be allowed to take the balloon flight.

** Call us for local rate and resident visa holder rate

Hotel Pickup Times: 

Habarana & Sigiriya Area Hotels – 4.45 Am
Dambulla Area Hotels – 5.00 Am
Kandalama Area Hotels – 5.15 Am

However, times may differ from the location of the hotel to the launch site in Kandalama.

* Free Pickup from above area hotels. 

Departure Time Comments:

• Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
• Hotel pickups commence may prior to this time as per your hotel location. You can contact us verify your exact pickup time.
• Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 – 60 minutes prior to this time

Departure Location:

# Kandalama Launch area.

Return Location:
Returns to original departure point

Hot Air Balloon Capacity:

The passenger capacity varies from the sizes of balloons, which is based more on weight and temperature than the number of passengers. Our balloons can carry from 8 – 16 passengers per flight.

Hot Air Balloon dress code:

Dress casually and comfortably for the weather, it is a little warmer while the sun is out. We also recommend closed toe shoes to opened toe or high heeled shoes as we want to protect your feet just as much as the rest of you. A hat or cap to protect you from the heat of the burners.

Can I take my children in Hot Air Balloon:

We encourage families to participate in Hot Air Ballooning, however there are issues to consider before deciding to take your children. The sides of the basket are approximately 4’ high, therefore, children who are not as tall will not enjoy the beautiful views and may get irritated. Adults are not permitted to hold or carry children during a flight.

A child under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Another fact to consider is, the burners directly above. We’ve found that very young children, are often frightened by the noise of the burner. Because of these reasons and past experience, children under the age of 7 are not permitted to take the flight.

Can anyone fly in Hot Air Balloon:

Pregnant mothers and guests taking medications must consult their physician before flying in a Hot Air Balloon.

Photographs:
You are most welcomed to bring in your still or video cameras aboard to take as much memorable pictures and videos to last a lifetime of your memorable sky safari over beautiful Sri Lanka !!

How High Does The Hot Air Balloon Fly? 

We normally reach between 500 and 2,500 feet high – and where allowed.
Do we fly on the same direction twice?
Where the hot air balloon flies is always in the direction of the wind and no two flights are the same.

Afraid of heights (acrophobia)?
Many people who have a fear of heights or were just anxious about flying have realize it is not what they were expecting, there is no rocking or turbulence like on a plane. Why don’t you give it a try and have a new experience.

Where do we land?
Wish I had an answer for you on that one, but I don’t! This is really a part of the excitement and adventure of ballooning! We might land in a large field or even someone’s front yard !

The direction of the Hot Air Balloon cannot be controlled by steering as it travels only with the wind and at the speed of the wind. There are usually different wind directions at different altitudes, and by seeking out different wind currents a pilot can maneuver his balloon in several directions.

For safety reasons, balloonists generally prefer for the winds to be less than 10 mph and the clouds to be at least 2000′ above the ground.

How far will we fly?
Well, that depends on the winds. Since we fly with the winds, if the wind is 2 mph, we will fly about 2 miles. If the wind is 8 mph, we will fly closer to 8 miles. You get the picture.

After the landing?
We go nowhere until our crew shows up to get us. Balloon chasing is a fun challenge and hopefully the chase will be there waiting for us, or will arrive shortly after we land to take you back to your place of pick up and to pack up the balloon. Your vehicle could also join in the fun with our chase team, if you wish!

After each flight we commemorate the adventure with a Champagne Celebration.

About the Tour Operator:

• 4R-OSY – 16 passenger
• 4R-ISN – 8 passenger
• 4R-UBY – 2 passenger

Cancellation Policy:

Flights are dependent on good weather conditions. In case of flight cancellation due to bad weather conditions, full amount will be refunded. If you wish and we have availability, possible to attend next day’s flight. On the other hand, if you want to cancel your Sri Lanka Balloon Flight, you can cancel it up to 5 days before the flight and you can get your payment back (except Gift Vouchers).

Additional Tour Information:

• For Next day bookings, Please you must contact us by Call or SMS / WhatsApp / Viber with mention exact pickup Location to +94776487757
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Pregnant ladies and infants are not allowed in the basket. 
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition
• Hot air ballooning is totally weather dependent, flights will be cancelled by the Pilots for safety reasons.
• Please include your Mobile / Local contact number & Hotel pickup details at the booking

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Want to have an amazing view of the Sigiriya Rock? Then it’s time you climb Pidurangala Rock! 

Pidurangala Rock is a spectacular sight. The history of the rock temple is closely related to Sigiriya Rock Fortress. History says that monks have been living in the caves of Pidurangala for 2500 years. The proof for that is a temple and a 12.5 m long reclining Buddha statue built in a cave. It’s said to be the largest brick statue in the world. 

Pidurangala Rock is larger than Sigiriya Rock and is a little more difficult to climb, so it’s not too crowded with travellers. Keep in mind that it is a medium-difficulty hike, so some physical fitness is required. Stunning views of acres & acres of evergreen forest with Sigiriya will reward your efforts. 

The hike took around 30 minutes and was relatively easy despite the incline and some parts of the path being a little bit ‘off-road.’

You will have time to let the view sink into you, to feel the breeze, and to gaze at the sky, and I am sure you will definitely get that “Top of the World” feeling.

What to wear or bring along: Light clothing, sun cream, a hat, shoes fit for trekking

Difficulty: Fairly challenging. The first half consists of steps cut into the rock, but the rest of the climb is more strenuous, as it requires you to climb over and through rocks.

Suitable for children: Not recommended for children under the age of 12, as there are no railings throughout the climb. Although the views from the summit are gorgeous, the edges are unprotected and unsafe.

Private tour or not? The vehicle & visit are private, guided by your driver-come-guide. That said, there may be other people around at the site.

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