We have designed this program to feature both the natural beauty and cultural wealth of this fascinating island. Culturally and historically we witness some of the variety that Sri Lanka has to offer, from the European-built fortified city of Galle to important local temples, including a five-cave complex of temples. Tour Polonnaruwa, the second capital city of Sri Lanka and the 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress. We spend several days in and around Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic cities. We have timed this trip to join in the festivities of the Kandy Esala Perahera festival, or the ‘festival of the tooth.’ This grand Buddhist celebration has become a unique symbol of Sri Lanka, with people donning elegant costumes and elephants adorned with lavish garments.

Join us as we visit several national parks, each bringing us different experiences. Yala is best known for its variety of animals and has one of the highest densities of leopard in the world. At Udawale, an important habitat for Sri Lankan elephants, we join up with Shermin de Silva of Harvard University to learn about her Elephant Research Project.