From CAD 837 Was CAD 985
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating cultures, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches and this eight-day experience will introduce you to the most memorable. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, climb Lion Rock at Sigiriya, and explore the monkey-filled mangrove forests of Unawatuna. We’ve sorted the nitty gritty so you can focus on soaking up Sri Lanka at your own pace, with plenty of optional activities and the guidance of your local leader to help you out when you’re not sure where to start. Are you an independent traveller who wants to explore Sri Lanka with like-minded people and a local? This is your trip.
Highlights
- Check out the awe-inspiring Sigiriya (Lion Rock), a 200-metre-high ancient rock fortress that lies smack-bang in the middle of evergreen jungle.
- Wander through the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy, which houses one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relics – a tooth of the Buddha.
- Get to know the gorgeous beach of Unawatuna, where you can either get active in the surrounding jungle or chill with a cocktail while lying under a palm tree.
- This tour has the option of a 4WD safari through a park known for its wild elephant population. Seeing these big beauties in the flesh is unforgettable.
- With these experiences you get local knowledge, decades of on-the-ground operational experience and the freedom and independence to explore at your own pace.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2187
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Private vehicle,Train
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HPRS
Starts: Negombo, Sri Lanka
Finishes: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (1),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 837 (CAD 105 /day)
Itinerary
Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, located close to the international airport. You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. Those arriving early can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and perhaps feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, leave Negombo and drive approximately 4.5 hours to Dambulla, arriving just after midday. In the afternoon you may like to relax at the hotel after check-in, or take an optional visit to a nearby wildlife reserve – a jeep safari excursion that takes you into elephant country. Which park is available to visit depends on the season, but both Minneriya and Kaudulla are within easy reach of Dambulla. Another option is the nearby Dambulla Caves with their magnificently decorated interiors.
Optional Activities:
- Dambulla - Cave temples (entrance) (7 USD)
- Minneriya National Park (entrance) (45 USD)
- Minneriya National Park - Jeep hire (minimum 6 pax) (45 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes). This ruined fortress is one of Sri Lanka's premier sights. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with astounding views. Make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear, as this is a very steep climb with some uneven slopes. Those unable to climb to the top can explore the gardens at the base of the rock and still get some fantastic shots of the fortress from below. Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Kandy (approximately 3 hours). On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch. In beautifully located Kandy, visit the Dalada Maligawa (aka Temple of the Tooth), Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist site, and mingle with the white-clad pilgrims who come here to worship.
Included Activities:
- Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
- Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
The morning is yours to explore Kandy, a pleasant city surrounded by lush countryside. It’s home to a picturesque lake, old shops, a bustling market and some great restaurants. It was once the capital under the last Sri Lankan king, and the area managed to resist European control for hundreds of years, long after the coastal areas surrendered. Perhaps walk through the town to take in the sights of Kandy – explore the citadel, or take a nature walk at Udawattakele Sanctuary, close to Kandy, which offers the chance to see flowers, birds and monkeys in 160 acres of tropical rainforest. Regroup for today’s lunch, which is sure to be one to remember! Visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant, a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment to women from local communities while training and empowering them. Here you’ll enjoy some truly delicious Sri Lankan dishes while learning about the important work they do. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries.
Included Activities:
- Kandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunch
Optional Activities:
- Kandy - Cultural Dance Performance (7 USD)
- Kandy - Botanical Gardens (10 USD)
- Kandy - Cooking Class in a Sinhalese Home (12 USD)
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Journey south in a private vehicle to Unawatuna (approximately 6 hours). This fantastic stretch of beach has plenty of local restaurants and bars to relax in. There are no included activities today, so you'll have free time to explore Unawatuna and its surrounds. Perhaps take a walk through the monkey-filled mangrove forest off Galle–Matara road or unwind with an indulgent massage.
Optional Activities:
- Galle - Dutch Fort - Free
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Today pop into nearby Galle for some sightseeing. The city is a memorable collection of Dutch-colonial buildings with boutique shops and cafes to visit. Walk around the perimeter of the Galle fort and opt to cool off with an icy ginger drink in a cafe, then mosey on back to the beach in Unawatuna for some more chillaxing or grab a cocktail under the shade of a beachside restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Galle - Galle Fort Walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Mirissa - Whale Watching (Nov to Mar) (70 USD)
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Unawatuna behind and make the journey to Colombo (approximately 4 hours). On arrival in Sri Lanka's capital, head out on a city walk with your leader. On your way, visit local shops and do some sightseeing. If you're lucky enough to be in Colombo on a Saturday, visit Good Market, a local market full of stalls showcasing social enterprises and responsible businesses. Tonight is free, but your leader will suggest an optional group dinner for your final night together.
Included Activities:
- Colombo – Guided market visit
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Have string hoppers and a super-black coffee for breakfast, then pull your saddest face as our trip comes to an end.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Samara - Traveled, March 2024
If you’re short on time but want to experience the amazing culture of Sri Lanka then this is the ideal tour. Amazing food, sights and people. Can’t wait to come back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Daniel - Traveled, March 2024
This is a superb snapshot of Sri Lanka - such a variety of things packed into a short space of time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Kathleen - Traveled, March 2024
Fantastic tour if limited time in Sri Lanka. Chance to see so many highlights without it feeling too frantic. Our leader, Sam, was knowledgeable, an engaging teacher and a positive, high-energy guide. Note most activities were necessary to stay with the group for the day. Also, hotels were very basic (as advertised).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Emma - Traveled, March 2024
Another excellent tour from intrepid! Simply Sri Lanka excellent tour if on a budget or you haven’t got much time. Learned so much about the country and culture. If you not been to Sri Lanka you need to visit it, it’s beautiful :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Sam - Traveled, March 2024
Amazing trip to Sri Lanka! Great tour guide who was always helpful and kind, couldn’t have asked for more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
lisa - Traveled, March 2024
A jam packed Intrepid tour was the perfect introduction to my first group tour. a great group of people who I now call friends. A wonderful and very personable leader in Chathu and a fantastic destination in Sri Lanka. Snorkelling, hiking Lion Rock, elephant safari, yoga, turtle conservation visit, beautiful beaches, wonderful meals and accommodation. I would highly recommend everyone do this for their first visit to Sri Lanka. I will be back.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Ben - Traveled, March 2024
This was my first Intrepid trip, I went on my own and was a bit nervous as to whether I would get along with everyone as I'm not very extroverted however I didn't need to worry. The group got along and took me under their wing, and our tour guide Chathu was very approachable and knowledgeable. And Sri Lanka was just beautiful and vibrant. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2024
Sophia - Traveled, February 2024
This was my first solo travel trip and my first with Intrepid. It was such a great way to explore the country and had a good range of activities including wildlife, cultural sites, and some walking/hiking. It was also great meeting everyone in the group from all over the world, and our group leader Prageeth was very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/04/2024
Sue - Traveled, February 2024
Simply Sri Lanka gives a good introduction to a fascinating country. The key centres are visited with the coast, historic and nature aspects all included. The Guide's knowledge and organisational skills added to this short visit, which I think will bring many back for a longer stay.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
caitlin - Traveled, February 2024
I would highly recommend using intrepid! The tour was planned out so well and the staff couldn’t have been nicer! I would highly recommend for both solo or group travellers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2024
Paula - Traveled, February 2024
Excellent trip with enjoyable trips, weather, food, people, Hotels and mostly group leader. However, unlike previous Intrepid trip, some additional activities were expensive which we had to pay for
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2024
Sophie - Traveled, February 2024
I highly recommend this package! It was an amazing way to experience Sri Lanka and create friends along the way, no matter the age difference!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2024
Guy - Traveled, February 2024
Excellent introduction to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka for those with a limited time frame. This trip covers some highlights of the coast as well as the interior and gives you a flavour of the country without feeling rushed. Friendly guides, beautiful scenery and delicious food, don't hesitate just book it, you won't regret it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2024
justin - Traveled, February 2024
Nilanga! He was the best tour guide ever. I wish I could have done another week with him.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/13/2024
Ruby - Traveled, January 2024
This was my first tour ever. It was such a great entry level trip to Sri Lanka. My guide was the biggest highlight for me and was so accomodating to everyone. I met some amazing people in my group and I can’t wait to go on another Intrepid trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2024
Eva - Traveled, January 2024
This trip was truly a life changing experience. I was able to connect with the people and our guide Hashan in a way that I hadn't imagined, the itinerary was enough to cover the basics and make me want to discover more. We've lived a true local experience and laughed so much, I can't wait to book another Intrepid tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Brittany - Traveled, January 2024
Where to begin!? We were lucky to have such a sumptuous group of people that I'm beyond grateful to be a part of. Hashan was extremely knowledgeable on all aspects of Sri Lankan history and his cheeky grin was enjoyed by the whole group. I was truly mesmerised by the gemstone tour, particularly the introduction video which highlighted the blue topaz, green topaz, purple topaz, orange topaz, red topaz and white topaz. The wildlife was pretty special too with one of the tour members lucky enough to get an up close and personal experience with a bat in one of our accommodation stays. The breakfast sausages were also a mainstay in my culinary experience as was the very authentic street food tour and the overall service at most venues was exemplary. Overall, a great trip and one that I would recommend xoxo
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Amit - Traveled, December 2023
My first Intrepid tour. Exceptional tour guide, and support throughout. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/07/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, November 2023
What an amazing tour of a wonderful country. The sights, people and activities are out of this world and a trip I will cherish forever. Cham was an incredible leader and friend… book this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/03/2023
Joe - Traveled, October 2023
Amazing trip with everything you need to see in a short time with expert guides
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
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