Sri Lanka Package Trip: Peaks and Paths 8-Day Epic Tour

 Highlights of the Trip

One for the trekking enthusiasts! Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Sri Lanka package trip through the stunning landscapes and spectacular cultural mosaic of Sri Lanka, tailored for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts.

Your journey begins in Negombo, where you’ll unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead. Then, experience the mystical allure of evening trekking in Udawattakelle, discovering hidden gems in Kandy’s historic cityscape, and conquering the Knuckles Mountain Range on a full-day trek. In Nuwara Eliya, a leisurely day awaits, perfect for sampling plenty of Ceylon tea, followed by a thrilling trek through Horton Plains, with an optional overnight ascent of Adam’s Peak for the daring. After a night’s rest in Nuwara Eliya, delve into Udawalawe’s wildlife wonders and trek through the breathtaking Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve. Finally, wrap up your expedition with a serene night in Bentota before bidding adieu to the island. Throughout your journey, relish local cuisine, adding a delicious dimension to your exploration.

This tour promises a satisfying mix of hiking, history, nature, and cultural experiences- the ultimate in Sri Lanka travel- leaving you with cherished memories of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It makes an ideal Sri Lanka family holiday, couples trip or solo trip alike.

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Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Negombo

If time allows visit:

• Negombo Beach: Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at this popular stretch of golden coastline known for its vibrant atmosphere, water activities and scenic sunsets.
• St Mary’s Church: Visit the iconic St. Mary’s Church, a historic Catholic church with Dutch and Portuguese influences, featuring intricate architecture and religious significance.
• Dutch Fort: Explore the remnants of the Dutch Fort, reflecting the colonial history of the region. The fort area is characterised by old cannons, a clock tower, and colonial-style architecture.

Kandy

• Evening Trekking at Udawattakelle: Immerse yourself in nature during this evening trek exploring lush landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse flora and fauna.

If time allows visit:

• Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Tooth Relic): Witness the cultural richness at this iconic temple, a sacred Buddhist site with historical and spiritual significance.
• Kandy City: Discover the charm of Kandy city, blending cultural heritage with modern vibrancy, offering markets, colonial architecture, and a serene lakeside setting.

Knuckles

• Full Day Trekking Knuckles Mountain Range: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range with a full-day trek, navigating through scenic trails and enjoying panoramic views.

Nuwara Eliya

• Trekking the Horton Plains: Explore the unique landscapes of Horton Plains during a trek, discovering World’s End, Baker’s Falls, and the rich biodiversity of this National Park.
• Optional Climb to Adam’s Peak: Embark on a spiritual and physical journey by climbing Adam’s Peak, a pilgrimage site with stunning sunrise views and a sacred footprint.

If time allows visit:

• Seetha Amman Temple: Dive into the Ramayana legend at Seetha Amman Temple, a serene Hindu temple surrounded by tea plantations, adding cultural depth to your Nuwara Eliya visit.
• Hakgala Botanical Gardens: Stroll through Hakgala Botanical Gardens, a haven of exotic flora, meticulously landscaped gardens, and the serene Hakgala Lake.
• Tea Factory Tour: Gain insights into Sri Lanka’s tea production with a tea factory tour, learning about the tea-making process and tasting freshly brewed varieties.

Udawalawe

If time allows visit:

• Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home: Witness the conservation efforts at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, providing care for orphaned elephants before their release into the wild.
• Udawalawe National Park Safari: Experience wildlife wonders with a safari in this stunning National Park, home to diverse fauna, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
• Bogoda Wooden Bridge: Cross the historic Bogoda Wooden Bridge, the oldest surviving wooden bridge in Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into the island’s architectural heritage.

Bentota

• Trekking the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve: Immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve through trekking, discovering unique flora, fauna, and cascading waterfalls.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Evening Trekking at Udawattakelle: Engage in a cultural immersion as you explore Udawattakelle, encountering ancient ruins and hidden temples, connecting with the spiritual and historical facets of Kandy.

Discover Local Life: Immerse yourself in local life by exploring vibrant markets, interacting with friendly locals, and learning more about their culture, handicrafts, and traditions.

Full-Day Trekking Knuckles Mountain Range: Connect with local communities during your trek, experiencing their customs and traditions while traversing the scenic trails of the Knuckles.

Trekking the Horton Plains: Appreciate the cultural significance of Horton Plains as you explore its landscapes, discovering the unique ecosystems and understanding the historical context of the area.

Climbing Adam’s Peak for Sunrise: Embrace the cultural pilgrimage of Adam’s Peak, where your ascent is not only a physical challenge but a spiritual journey, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise at the sacred summit.

Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari: Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s wildlife culture during a safari trip, witnessing elephants, leopards, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat.

The Kandyan Cultural Show: If time permits, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy and experience the vibrant traditions of Kandy through its Cultural Show, a colourful spectacle of dance, music, and rituals that convey the rich cultural heritage of the Kandyan Kingdom, celebrating the island’s artistic diversity.

Guided Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory Tour: Uncover the cultural heritage of Ceylon tea through a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory. Gain insights into the art of tea productions, steeped in Sri Lanka’s colonial history, reflecting the cultural importance of this globally renowned beverage.

Trekking the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve: Connect with the indigenous cultures near Sinharaja, learning about their sustainable practices and ancient wisdom as your trek through the rainforest.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Sri Lanka

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in rice & curry, a staple featuring aromatic rice served with an array of curries, including dhal, coconut, sambol, and various vegetable or meat curries; hoppers, thin bowl shaped pancakes made from fermented rice batter, often served for breakfast or dinner with different accompaniments; kottu roti, a popular street food made by chopping flatbread, vegetables, and meat (or eggs) mixed with a flavourful blend of spices and sauces; string hoppers, delicate steamed rice noodle nests served with curries, coconut sambol, and dhal; fish ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of tamarind), black pepper, and other spices, creating a unique and tangy flavour; Sri Lankan devilled chicken, a spicy and flavourful chicken dish stir-fried with onions, peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices; pol sambol, a fiery coconut relish made with grated coconut, chilli, lime juice, and other spices, often enjoyed as a side dish; wambatu moju, a sweet and sour eggplant pickle; and kiribath, a ceremonial dish of milk rice, often enjoyed during special occasional and festivities, symbolising prosperity and good fortune.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Negombo Lagoon Boat Tour: Explore the scenic Negombo Lagoon by boat, discovering its mangroves, fishing villages, ad diverse birdlife.

Kandy Lake Boat Ride: Leisurely cruise on the scenic Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooked by the Temple of the Tooth Relic, providing a serene escape in the heart of Kandy.

Knuckles Mountain Range River Trekking and Canyoning: Experience the adventurous river trekking and canyoning activities in the rivers flowing through the Knuckles Mountain Range.

Gregory Lake Boat Ride: Experience the charm of Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya with a boat ride, surrounded by misty hills and tea plantations.

Udawalawe Reservoir Boat Safari: Take a boat safari on Udawalawe Reservoir, offering opportunities to spot wildlife along the water’s edge.

Madu River Boat Safari, Bentota: Cruise along the scenic Madu River, exploring mangroves, small islands, and witnessing traditional village life.

Accommodation of this Tour

Negombo: Hotel in Negombo

Kandy: Hotel in Kandy

Nuwara Eliya: Resort in Nuwara Eliya

Udawalawe: Hotel in Udawalawe

Bentota: Hotel in Bentota