Compare Sri Lanka Adventure by World Expeditions vs Walking Trails of Sri Lanka by Exodus Travels

Day 1 Join Colombo, transfer to Negombo

Upon arrival at the Colombo Airport, you will be met and transferred to the group hotel in Negombo. In the afternoon we take a boat ride in the Muthurajawela Nature Reserve, a unique tropical wetland located between Colombo and Negombo. This reserve covers an area of 7000 hectares and includes wetland marshes and mangrove forests. During the boat trip relax and enjoy the birdlife including herons, storks, waders and brilliantly coloured kingfishers. Overnight: Earls Regent Hotel or similar.

meals : Array

Day 2 Drive to Salgala Buddhist Monastery

After breakfast we visit the Salgala monastic complex, a haven for monks who have renounced worldly pleasures to lead a life of austerity and meditation. This evening we cross the river and hike through coconut estates, rubber plantations, rice fields, and remote villages. Today we have approx. 2 hours driving and 2 hours walking. Overnight: Kandyan Reach Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 3 Drive to the ancient capital of Anuradhapura

After breakfast we journey by road to Anuradhapura - the 1st capital dating back to the 5th Century BC. On the way we visit the ancient Buddhist library building in Padeniya Temple. Discover Yapahuwa with its beautiful ornamental stairway that climbs to a natural terrace and magnificent views. We then contunue to Anuradhapura. Today we have approx. 3.5 hours driving and 2.5 hours walking. Overnight: The Lake Forest Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 4 Visit Buddhist monuments en route to Habarana

It is an early start this morning at 7.00am as we visit the historical and cultural sights of Anuradhapura. This will include the Sacred Bo Tree – the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world grown from the sapling of the Bo Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Also, Ruwanweliseya Dagaba; Thuparama - the first Dagaba built enshrining the Collar Bone of the Lord Buddha, Isurumuniya Rock Temple - famous forts sculpture of lovers; Jethawanarama- which is said to have been higher than the great Pyramid at Giza in its original form and which is now a World Heritage Site; Samadhi Statue sculpture depicting the meditation posture of the Lord Buddha; Royal Pleasure Garden; Moonstone and the Twin Ponds. Here we stop to relax and enjoy lunch before making our way to Mihintale. Our vehicle will drop us three quarters of the way up the climb, leaving 300 steps to reach the sacred location of Mihintale, after which we continue traveling to Habarana. En-route we stop at the famous Avukana Buddha image. Today we have approx. 1.5 hours walking. Overnight: Elephas Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 5 Day trip to Sigiriya via Polonnaruwa

After breakfast we visit the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa - the medieval Capital of Sri Lanka - 11th Century AD. Polonnaruwa rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. We will visit the ruins of the King’s Council Chamber, the Royal Citadel, the Kumara Pokuna, Royal Pavilion, and the Vatadage Relic House lavished with moonstones, guardstones and sculptured railing. Plus, we will see Kiri Vehera the best preserved of all Sri Lanka’s un-restored stupa’s and visit Gal Vihare the colossal Buddha carved on the face of a granite boulder. The recumbent Buddha measures 14 metres and the standing figure is 7 metres in height. In the afternoon as the sun goes down, we make our way to the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya, which consists of over 1200 steps. In the afternoon as the sun goes down we make our way to the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya, which consists of over 1200 steps. Today we have approx. 2.5 hours driving and 4 hours walking. Overnight: Elephas Hotel or similar

meals : B,D

Day 6 Drive to the cultural centre of Kandy

This morning after breakfast we drive to the nearby village of Hiriwaduna, to see the farmers Chena cultivation - wading the waters of the Habrana Tank in a farmers canoe exploring the rice fields. We enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan sweet served with Belli mal or fresh Sri Lankan King coconut, within the farmers humble homes. After this we make our way to Kandy, stopping en-route to explore the Dambulla Caves Temple, to witness some of the most spectacular caves of Buddhist art and sculpture, dating back to the 1st century. We will also stop at Matale to learn about Sri Lankan spices and herbs and indigenous medicines. Here we will also be served a simple traditional farmers lunch of boiled green gram with grated coconut and onion sambal. Today we have approx. 3 hours driving time and spend approx 3.5 hours exploring Hiriwaduna and Dambulla Caves involves 350 steps) Overnight: Royal Kandyan Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 7 Explore Kandy

The name Kandy conjures visions of splendour and magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. The Kandy Lake built by the last King Sri Wickramarajasinghe in 1806 adds colour to the city. It is a city for arts and crafts as well as culture and history. Today we visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, where we explore this historic location of significant Buddhist influence. We will also make our way to Upper Lake Drive (for a great view of the city), the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, (one of the finest of its kind in Asia with more than 4000 species of flora, and once the headquarters of Lord Mountbatten) and a Gem Museum. In the evening we will enjoy a cultural performance of traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers, including devotional fire walking rituals. Today we have approx. 2 hours walking. Overnight: Royal Kandyan Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 8 Train Journey & Rafting the River Kalani then to Adams Peak

After breakfast we leave for the Peradeniya Railway Station, where we travel to Nawalapitiya. We then travel by private vehicle from the train station of Nawalapitiya towards the region of Kithulagala, where a spectacular white water Rafting Experience awaits us on the River Kalani. Following this, we make our way towards Nallathanniya to the base of Adam’s Peak – the Holy Mountain, where our climb commences not later than 0.130am in expectation of seeing the sunrise at around 05.45am. Adam’s Peak (2224m ASL), has attracted pilgrims for more than 1000 years, due to the legend that it was here that Adam first stepped onto the earth after being expelled from Heaven. Whilst pilgrims climb to the top to view the enormous ‘footprint’, claimed by various groups to bethat of Adam’s, Buddha’s and even Lord Shiva, the view at the top at dawn is spectacular, making it well worth the effort. As the weather can be quite cold before the sunrise, it is advisable to bring warm, windproof clothing. White water rafting for duration of 90 minutes. Adams Peak Climb involves 5600 steps Overnight: Punsisi Inn or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 9 Adam's Peak Climb, to Nuwara Eliya

After the climb we descend by 09.00am and sit down for a late breakfast before driving through the regions of NuwaraEliya, where we will take a break to explore a working Tea Factory, to educate one’s self on all aspects of the production of Ceylon Tea. A detailed city tour also visiting the municipal Markets, the regions of Lake Gregory and the famous Bale Bazaar will be enjoyed as well. This evening, should one have energy after the Climb of Adams Peak, join your guide in a comfortable stroll at a very easy and relaxed pace around the Race Course of Nuwara Eliya. Overnight: Glendower Hotel or similar

meals : B,D

Day 10 Hortons Plains Hike, then to Ella

This morning we have an early start with a wake up call at 5:00am, as we board our vehicle with a packed breakfast in hand no later than 5:30am. We will drive to the Horton Plains where by 7:00am, we will commence our nature walk within the spectacular game reserve which covers a distance of over 9.5kms, we take in the marvelous view points and beautiful Bakers Falls, there are more waterfalls within this region of unique climate and flora and fauna. Ella is a town set at 1100ms and the landscape falls dramatically to the plains 1000ms below, offering spectacular views. After this we make our way back to our vehicle and drive to our hotel to enjoy lunch and some time to relax. This afternoon we will explore the nearby Nine Arches Bridge. Today we have approx. 2 hours driving and 4 hours walking within Horton Plains Overnight: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel or similar

meals : B,D

Day 11 Drive to Udawalawe National Park

After a relaxed breakfast we venture out on a two hour nature walk through the tea plantations to the fantastic view point of Mini Adams Peak. After this we make our way to our hotel for a simple comfort stop and to refresh before setting out the Udawalawe in time for lunch and undertaking a jeep safari in the Udawalawe National Park. This park is approximately 30,821 hectares in extent and lies within the Ratnapura and Monaragala Districts. It acts as the catchment to the Udawaalawe Reservoir and is located in the Dry Zone. This Park comprises grasslands and thorn scrubs and many valuable species of trees are found within it. Large herds of Elephants and Deer species, Wild Boar, Water Buffalo, Jackal and Birds are some of the prominent wild animals found in this Park. Today we have approx. 2 hours driving and 2 hours walking. Overnight: Athgira Riverside Camp or Elephant Trails Hotel or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 12 Elephant transit home then drive to Galle

After breakfast we visit the nearby Elephant Transit Home for baby elephants. We'll witness the many elephants who have been placed destitute being bottle fed and provided for and protected. After this we continue towards Walasmulla Hakkmana to reach the main road to Galle, passing through the stilled fisherman of Waligama. We undertake a detailed city tour walking along the rampart walls, exploring the Dutch heritage and the 36 hectare Dutch Fortress, constructed in 1663. This evening we hope to see a wonderful sunset. Today we have approx. 2 hours driving. Overnight: South Lake Resort or similar

meals : B,D

Day 13 Drive to Colombo

After a relaxed breakfast we commence our journey towards Colombo. On our way we stop in Blapitiya to explore the waters of the Madhu River, as we venture out on a unique boat safari, wading through the mangroves. Here there are prawn traps, monkeys, birds, monitor lizards and more. Continuing on we explore Colombo with a brief city tour and indulge in any last minute shopping before settling into our hotel. Today we have approx. 2 hours driving. Overnight: The Fairview Hotel, Colombo or similar.

meals : B,D

Day 14 Trip concludes

After breakfast there will be a transfer to the airport for departure, where the trip concludes.

meals : B

Day 1 Start Dambulla

The group flight arrives at Colombo's Katunayake Airport and we transfer to our hotel at Dambulla (100mi/160km, four hours' drive). Those not flying with the group can meet us at the hotel or the airport in time for the transfer. Please be aware, if you are meeting the group at the airport for a transfer you might need to purchase a ticket outside to enter the arrivals hall. We make our way to the hotel in Dambulla (100mi/160km, four hours’ drive). Accommodation: Pelwehera Village Resort (or similar)

Day 2 Visit Dambulla Caves, village walk towards Sigiriya; afternoon visit to Lion Rock fortress

After breakfast, we visit the magnificent Cave Temple at Dambulla, one of the most impressive sights in Sri Lanka. There are colourful, well-preserved paintings and statues of Buddha inside, dating to the first century BCE. We then have a short, gentle, warm-up walk through villages and rice paddies and on towards Sigiriya, where we have lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the imposing fifth-century rock fortress, which rises 590ft (180m) from the plains overlooking the countryside with far-reaching views. The route to the top is up a series of steep steps and gangways. From the base, where a moat surrounds impressive water gardens, we ascend 655ft (200m) and pass an overhanging rock, under which superb portraits of indigenous maidens holding flowers and temple offerings still adorn the walls. Crowning the flat-topped summit are extensive remains of the King's Summer Palace from where there are breath-taking views of the countryside. The descent is much easier and we have a final 35-minute drive back to our hotel in Dambulla. Accommodation: Pelwehera Village Resort (or similar)

Day 3 Drive to Illukkumbura; walk the Manigala Trail in the Knuckles Mountain Range

The next two days takes us across the Knuckles Mountain Range. We start early with a three-hour drive to the start of our walk, where we begin with an easy descent past paddies and through the villages of Pitawala Patana and Etanwala. Descending to the river, we cross a small bridge and climb up through more farmland. Finally, emerging at the top of an escarpment, we are rewarded with great views of the countryside. An easy trail takes us along the escarpment to Manigala Top at 3,660ft (1,115m), the high point of today. Next, we descend to the Mahalakotuwa village area, which leads to the main road and then it’s a 20-minute walk to our campsite by the river where we can bathe in the cool, refreshing water. Accommodation: Camping at Knuckles with Eco Team (or similar) (Occasionally, we use an alternative campsite due to high water levels, which is about 40 minutes’ drive from Illikumbura).

Day 4 Walk through forests to Meemure; transfer to Orutota

We begin with a half-hour drive to the Narangamuwa Temple at Ranamuregama. Starting our walk, we pass paddies and coconut groves before we enter a heavily forested area. The trail climbs gently for an hour and then levels out before undulating though this lush forest. The only sound we can hear is the birdsong around us. Emerging from the forest in the village of Meemure, make sure to look back for a spectacular view of the Lakegala peaks. Passing farms growing pepper and other spices, we come to a small tea shop where we have lunch. After, we take a truck or rickshaws for a bumpy 90-minute ride to Corbett’s Gap, a much-loved viewpoint. Our bus meets us here for the 1hr 30min drive to our hotel at Orutota overlooking the Victoria Reservoir. Accommodation: Oruthota Chalets (or similar)

Day 5 To Kandy; visit the Temple of the Tooth

We enjoy a relaxing morning in the hotel garden and pool. Mid-morning, we have an 11mi (18km) drive to Kandy and the afternoon to explore. The town is located around a small lake and we can walk round to look for water birds and large water monitors. Later, we visit the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka, the Tooth of Buddha, which was taken from the funeral pyre in India in 543 BCE and found its way to Sri Lanka in the fourth century. Hundreds of worshippers visit the temple each day and in July/August the most spectacular ceremony takes place. Accommodation: Hotel Suisse (or similar)

Day 6 - 7 Ascend Adam’s Peak

This morning, we drive to Dickoya (three hours), where we stay for two nights in a simple summer house with a wonderful view of the Castlereagh Reservoir. On a clear day, we can see the outline of Adam’s Peak in the distance. In the pilgrim season (December to May), we have the day to relax or you can take a walk around the lake (approximately 3.7mi/6km). We leave around midnight for the walk up Adam’s Peak (approximately 8.7mi/14km). This will take around four hours and we should reach the top with the many pilgrims at sunrise. In the off season (May to November), we spend the first day at Dickoya and can walk around the lake and we climb Adam’s Peak during daylight hours on the following day. (Day 6: B) (Day 7: B,L) Accommodation: Summer House Hatton (or similar)

Day 8 Drive to Nuwara Eliya; optional walk to explore the town

This morning, we have a wonderful drive through tea plantation districts to Nuwara Eliya. This was the favourite hill station during the British era, situated in the cool highland air. Known locally as Little England, it is dotted with British-style houses, hotels and a racecourse. There will be an optional walk into the hills around the town and also time to explore the bazaar. Accommodation: Windsor Hotel (or similar)

Day 9 Early morning to Horton Plains; walk to World's End viewpoint; to Ella by train

Today we drive to Horton Plains, a large plateau more than 6,560ft (2,000m) above sea level, overlooked by the second and third highest peaks in Sri Lanka. The scenery is beautiful and best explored on foot. We trek through the rolling grasslands, seeing forest and unusual wildlife, such as the sambar deer and purple-faced monkey, all the way to World's End, one of the most stunning sights in Sri Lanka. Here the ground drops 3,445ft (1,050m) to the plains below. We then catch the train from the highest railway station in the country; within two hours we go from 6,197ft (1,889m) to 3,599ft (1,097m). The train travels through the cloud forest into the tea plantations, the views are spectacular; we disembark at Ella. Accommodation: Hotel Country Comfort (or similar)

Day 10 Morning trek to Ella Rock; Free afternoon

This morning, we set out to ascend the iconic Ella Rock, the highest point in Ella standing 3,743ft (1,140m). The round trip to Ella Rock takes about four to five hours. Starting off gently with flat trail where you walk through farm land, passing by locals as they get on with their day to day life. The second phase is a gradual ascent to reach the top. You look out over the Ella gap, a deep valley connecting the city of Ella with the low country. The afternoon is free to explore the vibrant and busy Ella town. Accommodation: Hotel Country Comfort (or similar)

Day 11 Drive to Yala National Park; afternoon game drive

We now head south of the hills to Tissamaharama down the plains. On the way, we stop at Ella Gap where the most of the southern part of the island is in view and the shimmering silver of the ocean is visible on a clear day . We continue on our journey visiting the spectacular Ravana waterfalls, which is 82ft (25m) tall and one of the widest waterfalls in the country. We also stop at the Buduruwagala Temple, where we see seven statues of Buddha carved out of a rock that dates to the 10th century. Tissamaharama is our base for visiting Yala National Park – its open terrain was well known for elephants for many years, but recently the park has become better known as a place to spot leopards. The park, which is primarily shrub jungle with several salt and freshwater lagoons, has one of the highest concentrations of leopard in the world. We have a game drive in the afternoon. (Please note, the sanctuary may be closed for four to six weeks from September to October allowing the park authorities to check the animals. In this instance, we visit a nearby alternative, usually Udawalawe National Park). Accommodation: Chaarya Resort (or similar)

Day 12 Walk around Yodakandiya Lake; transfer to the coast.

This morning, we drive to the beautiful Yodakandiya Lake in Tissamaharama where we walk for approximately 3hr 30min (approximately 3mi/5km). This is an opportunity to see the day-to-day life of the local people plus a range of birdlife. In the late afternoon, we drive for approximately four hours to the coast and your beach front hotel. Accommodation: Insight Resort (or similar)

Day 13 Free day to relax on the beach or optional activities including whale watching (November to April)

We have a free day to relax on the beach or by the pool. There are also numerous optional activities including a boat ride through mangrove swamps to a cinnamon plantation or you can go whale watching off Dondra Head from November to April. This is one of the best places in the world for seeing blue and sperm whales. Accommodation: Insight Resort (or similar)

Day 14 To Galle; transfer to Colombo

We drive along the coastal road to the historic port of Galle, which dates to the 17th century and is now a Unesco World Heritage site. On the way, we stop at a small folk museum inspired by the local writer Martin Wickramasinghe. The museum is a typical house from the Koggala region and is set among beautiful gardens. We continue along the expressway to Colombo reaching our hotel in the late afternoon (the drive takes around two to three hours plus stops). Accommodation: Hotel Cinnamon Red (or similar)

Day 15 End Colombo

Today is the end of your journey. If you are travelling on the group flight we will have a morning transfer to the airport for the daytime international flight. The arrangements for those not flying with the group ends after breakfast. If you would like to continue the adventure with our post-trip extension to the Maldives or a beach stay in Ahangama, speak to your sales representative.