A two-week journey that will introduce families with active teenagers to Sri Lanka’s people and culture through hands-on experiences and activities. Featuring village walks; bicycle tours; hikes; train travel; down-to-earth, authentic accommodation; some of Sri Lanka’s best sights and direct engagement with local people.
Families with active teenagers.
You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your first stay in Makandura. Experience the tranquility of rural Sri Lanka in this small village surrounded by tropical greenery, and the nearby lake.
Discover Makandura and the daily rituals of rural Sri Lanka. Rise early for coffee and bird watching by the lake, followed by a bicycle tour through surrounding paddy-fields and orchards. Later, take a guided village walk and visit the local temple.
Depart for Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Visit Ritigala Archeological Monastery and explore its winding meditational pathways that open into thick jungle and large stone- lined reservoirs. Continue to Sigirya for a one-night jungle stay experience in rustic tree houses. In the evening go in search of animals including elephants with a night safari from your accommodation.
Visit the magnificent Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock. Rising over the dry plains of the Sigiriya district, the tough climb of 1,200 footsteps ends with a panoramic view of the plains and villages beneath. Observe the beautiful frescoes of Sigiriya during the climb. Afterwards, cycle through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once the site of Sri Lanka’s second medieval capital.
Visit and climb the Piduragala rock formation, once considered to be the royal temple at the time when King Kashyapa was at the helm of the Sigiriya fortress. From the top you can see Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the distance. In the afternoon, drive to Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park for a jeep safari to observe herds of wild elephants in their natural habitat.
Drive to Kandy and visit the much-revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth before continuing to your accommodation at Digana.
Today walk, bus and swim in the surrounding area, and experience local life in the village of Digana. A guided walk will take you through the village including a visit to the village school. Afterwards, join residents on a local bus ride and continue your walk to a nearby waterfall where you may choose to swim. Return to your hotel and afternoon at leisure.
Drive to Kandy and embark on a scenic rail journey through Sri Lanka’s hill country. Travelling by comfortable local train, the approximately six-hour train trip to Ella will take you past lush tea plantations and over the green mountains of the hill country. A very relaxing and enjoyable journey. You will be met at Ella station by your driver and transferred to your accommodation.
Start the day with a leisurely hike to Little Adams Peak. Be rewarded with magnificent views of the valley and surrounding hills from the peak. Afterwards, proceed to Nine Arches Bridge, one of the architectural marvels that remains from British Ceylon.
Today stretch your legs with a more challenging trek to Ella Rock, accompanied by a local farmer/guide. Again, at the end of the walk you will enjoy picturesque views of the hill country. In the afternoon, drive to Yala and set out on a jeep safari in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s best-known wildlife reserve.
Rise early and travel by local hand tractor a short distance to the Weerawila tank. Join local fisherman and try your hand at fishing. Afterwards, breakfast will be served at the water’s edge. In the afternoon, take a tuk tuk ride to a nearby village and discover how traditional clay pots are made. Make your own clay pot and learn more about the lives of the locals who have made pottery their livelihood.
Drive to the historic city of Galle, one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved colonial era cities. Today it is also a pleasant and popular place to visit in Sri Lanka with its almost-car-free streets, modern cafes and boutiques. In the afternoon, discover Galle Fort and its people on a fascinating guided walking tour. Savour traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry for dinner in a family home.
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Colombo airport for your international departing flight.
“The team at Sri Lanka Unbound and their local tour operators have delivered a tremendous Sri Lanka adventure for my family & I. Opening our eyes to this wonderful part of the world and its people. We will return home wiser and better from this experience.” Mrs Hammond -2019
Prices are indicative only & subject to change.
Additional inclusions may vary from private tour to private tour. A full list of inclusions and exclusions will be provided with each individual enquiry/quote. For a detailed quote on specific travel dates with full inclusions/exclusions please enquire at mail@srillankaunbound.com.au