Essential Sri Lanka Explorer - 13 days
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Essential Sri Lanka Explorer

Duration13 days

BUDGET TOUR: Embark on this 13-day group tour of Sri Lanka, beginning with Colombo’s historic sites, Negombo’s fish market, and the ancient Dambulla Temple. Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock, hike the Knuckles Range, and visit Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth. Enjoy white-water rafting in Kitulgala, a scenic train to Ella, and hikes to stunning views and waterfalls. Spot wildlife in Udawalawe, learn tea-making at Handunugoda, surf in Unawatuna, and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Wrap up with a blessing ceremony in Colombo, capturing the essence of Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and landscapes.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour overview

Duration13 days
StartsColombo
EndsColombo
RangeEssentials
Tour GuideEscorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader
Group SizeMin 3 / Max 20
Minimum age18
DepartsWednesdays & Fridays
Hotel RatingHostel dorm accommodation
CountriesSri Lanka
Arrival TransferNo
Departure TransferNo
Meals includedBreakfast: 11, Lunch: 2
Choose a date
Based on 2 passengers
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Your deal
Shown in ZAR
Per person from
R 31,915.00
Deposit from
R 10,000.00
From
R 63,830.00

Tour Highlights

Colombo - Discover Colombo on an evening walking tour of the old town
Sigiriya - Climb the ancient UNESCO-listed fortress for stunning views and see the famous rock paintings of the “Sigiriya Damsels"
Kitulgala - Embark on an exhilarating white water rafting adventure through the rainforest of Kitulgala for a unique thrill
Hatton to Ella - Ride one of the most beautiful train routes in the world, winding through misty hills, tea plantations, and scenic villages
Ella - Hike to Ella Rock at dawn for a breathtaking sunrise over lush landscapes
Knuckles Mountain Range - Take in the incredible views and diverse flora and fauna on a hike through the unique "knuckles" peaks of this mountain range
Udawalawe - Camp on the edge of this wildlife-rich national park, with chances to see elephants, deer, and exotic birds
Galle - Walk through the historic, UNESCO-protected fort with its preserved colonial buildings, chic boutiques, and ocean views
Kandy - Visit one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred temples, housing a relic of Buddha’s tooth, followed by a sunset over Kandy Lake

Included

11 breakfasts & 2 lunches
11 nights hostel dorm rooms & 1 night camping
All relevant transportation as per itinerary - mix of private & public transport
Escorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader
Entrance fees to all included sites
Evening walking tour of the old town of Colombo
Visit to the fish market in Negombo
Dambulla Cave Complex
Sigiriya Rock Fortress hike
A glass Sri Lanka’s favourite alcohol, Arrack in Dambulla
Hike along the scenic Manigala Trail in Knuckles
Temple of the Tooth visit in Kandy
Sunset visit to Kandy Lake
The Sputnik Centre in Kurunegala, Kandy
White Water rafting in Kitulgala
Scenic train from Hatton to Ella
Ella Rock hike at sunrise
Visit Rawana Falls in Ella
Hike to Mini-worlds end at sunrise in Ella
Visit to the Buduruvagala Ancient Temple
Jeep safari into Udawalawe National Park
Visit to Handunugoda Tea Estate
Surf lesson in Unawatuna
Tuk-tuk ride to Galle
Visit to a temple to meet a Buddhist priest and take part in a pooja
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Airport transfers
Optional activities