Largely avoiding conventional sightseeing, this itinerary will reveal beautiful locations within Sri Lanka for walking, bicycling and trekking. Discover a Sri Lanka away from the tourist crowds, with unique accommodation and a range of active daily programs.
Active travellers who like to experience a country on treks, rides and walks
You will be met upon arrival at Colombo’s international airport and transferred to your accommodation at Makandura.
Explore Makandura by bicycle and on foot. Start with an early guided bike ride through the surrounding area, passing through paddy fields and forest. In the afternoon, visit the local temple and a small teashop on a village walk.
Drive to Habarana in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Stop along the way and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, one of Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. Dambulla is considered to be the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in the country. Afterwards proceed to Habarana and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s biggest drawcards. Climb the 1,200 steps to the top of the rock and see the beautiful rock frescoes as you go. Linger and enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the rock. In the afternoon, explore the former medieval capital of Polonnaruwa on bicycles.
Rise early this morning to climb the massive rock formation of Pidurangala. In the afternoon visit the Ritigala Archaeological Monastery, one of the country’s lesser- visited attractions, and explore the meditational pathways and archaeological ruins in the forest.
Drive to Madulkelle and for the next two nights stay on a picturesque tea plantation on the Knuckles Mountain Range. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the facilities of your hotel, the outstanding mountain views and the natural environment.
Spend the day trekking in the Knuckles Mountain Range. This uphill climb will wind across streams, past waterfalls and through dense forests filled with endemic flora and fauna
Drive to Gal Oya National Park, Sri Lanka’s least-visited national park and the only park where you can safari by boat. For the next two nights stay at the only lodge near the park, where a team of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers will help you explore the local area and wildlife.
Explore the nearby forest on a guided walk with the local Vedda chief. The Veddas are Sri Lanka’s indigenous inhabitants and preserve a direct line of descent from the island’s original Neolithic community. A Vedda chief will take you on a walk through the jungle of his ancestors. In the afternoon, take a boat safari in the national park and observe animals at the water’s edge.
Hike to Monkey Mountain guided by one of the lodge’s naturalists. Walk through forest, climb over giant boulders and look for wildlife on this tough two-hour hike to the mountain’s peak. Afterwards, drive to the hill town of Ella.
Start the day with a leisurely hike to Little Adams Peak, and enjoy the views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Later, proceed to Nine Arches Bridge, a massive train crossing built entirely by stone by the British.
Make the more adventurous climb to Ella Rock. Walk along railroad tracks and onto a hanging metal bridge, before climbing to the top of the rock for incredible views. Afterwards, depart for Belihuloya, a hillside location with a number of waterfalls nearby, and enjoy a two-night stay in a boutique nature resort. In the afternoon, walk through paddy fields to visit the ancient cave temple in a local village.
Walk to Pahanthudawa Waterfalls this morning, an active and adventurous walk. In the afternoon, drive to a scenic lookout with views all the way to Udawalawe and take a small trek through the Peak Wilderness Forest Sanctuary.
Drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s biggest city and also its capital. Today, it is a bustling metropolis where the old and the new can be seen side by side. In the evening, experience a different side of the city. Take a city walk with an expert resident guide who will introduce you to some of Sri Lanka’s best street foods and Arrack, a coconut liquor popular with locals
Transfer to the airport for your departing international flight
Our visit to Sri Lanka was a wonderful experience. The itinerary was well planned and our guide/driver Iresh took great care of us.
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