From CAD 4,370
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
When the typical tourist route takes in dazzling beaches, fragrant spice gardens, emerald tea hills, safari wildlife and a glut of UNESCO-listed landmarks, it’s no wonder few leave the well-worn path in Sri Lanka. But go beyond the classic circuit and you’ll discover a wealth of beauty and intrigue that you don’t need to share with anyone else. This two-week walking adventure combines the can’t-miss highlights, including the Sigiriya rock fortress, sacred Adam’s Peak and the wildlife of Yala National Park, with the lesser-visited trails of the Knuckles Mountain Range, where we pass rice paddies and villages virtually undiscovered by the tourist hordes.
Profile
— Accommodation: 12 Classic nights (hotels), 2 Simple nights (wild camping and chalet) — Eight full- and half-day walks — Full porterage throughout — Maximum altitude: 7,360ft (2,243m); average: 2,955ft (900m) — Maldives and Sri Lanka beach extensions available
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 12 Classic nights (hotels), 2 Simple nights (wild camping and chalet) — Eight full- and half-day walks — Full porterage throughout — Maximum altitude: 7,360ft (2,243m); average: 2,955ft (900m) — Maldives and Sri Lanka beach extensions available
Trip For You
This trek is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate) with some day walks and some half-day walks. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
There will be a backup vehicle, making all the walking optional (except for the treks through the forest areas). Some days there will be options of easier and more challenging walks. Most of the walks are between four and six hours with one seven-hour walk. The trails are fairly well made and used by locals. If it rains, some trails can get slippery and there can often be leeches. It can be very hot and humid on the lower walks, particularly where there is little shade available so make sure you have a hat and plenty of water with you.
The drives to the start of the walks and from the end of the walks to the hotels are sometimes on narrow winding roads.
Please note, when visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock) the final ascent to the top is on metal open stairs fixed against the side of the rock. There are hand rails on either side but those with a strong fear of heights may prefer to stay on the lower level (where the lion "paws" are) and not continue to the rock plateau.
April departures, Sinhala and Tamil New Year:
A unique celebration to the people of Sri Lanka, this important New Year national festival, known as Avurudu in Sinhala and Puththandu in Tamil, is not celebrated by any other nation. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities are observed by both Sinhala Buddhists and Tamil Hindus across Sri Lanka for two days on the 12-13 April 2024 and 13-14 April 2025 . If you are travelling in Sri Lanka over these dates you can expect to see religious ceremonies, family activities, traditional foods, colourful decorations and a general feeling of good will toward neighbours and friends. Parties can gon into the night and it can be quite loud during this period. Your Leader will be happy to show you some of the activities where your itinerary allows. Please note, during the New Year public holiday, most shops, monuments and attractions will be closed however, your Leader will modify the itinerary as required to ensure minimal disruption.
Group Description
Our Sri Lankan team of leaders has proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Sri Lankan culture than letting a local leader show you around their country.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, five lunches and one dinner are included.
We suggest allowing about 7,000 rupees (US$23) per day for lunch and dinner.
You can eat out very cheaply in Sri Lanka and your leader will provide recommendations for where to eat locally however, the options may not always be suited to larger groups. Some locations you stay may have limited local restaurant choice, in which case meals will be at the hotel. Hotel meals are generally buffets; the majority offer an à la carte menu, but service can be slow. Where suitable, your tour leader will be happy to arrange a shuttle transfer into the local town or, if you prefer to be more independent, take a tuk tuk or taxi. Your leader can help recommend some good places to eat.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage; there is a unique fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the island over the centuries by Malays, Arabs, Indians as well as the Dutch, Portuguese and English. Despite (or perhaps because of) these influences, Sri Lankan cuisine is often referred to as simply rice and curry. This is the staple dish in most restaurants and is usually a serving of rice accompanied by assorted meat and vegetable curries as well as various pickles, sambols (condiments), and a handful of tiny poppadum – all using the contrasting flavours of coconut, chilli, curry leaves, cinnamon and garlic.
Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent in Sri Lanka. For example, wheat- or dairy-free options outside of hotels are limited. Please be prepared for this and you may need to bring these from home. Spicier food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels will serve Western options alongside traditional food.
Mineral water is provided by our local operator in large containers throughout the trip so please bring a bottle with you to refill. Please note, restaurant service can be quite slow.
Transportation
We use an air-conditioned minibus but depending on the size there may be two; however, vehicles in Sri Lanka tend to have limited legroom, so we try to stop for comfort breaks as needed. The back-up vehicles drop us at the start of the walks and meet us again at the end, transporting all our luggage. In Yala National Park, we use smaller 4x4s.
The train ride to Ella will be in the second-class carriage, an authentic experience and great chance for some fun local interactions. Due to the Sri Lankan rail booking system, tickets are purchased on the day from the railway station ticket office and seats cannot be reserved in advance, so we sit where we can once on board.
Please Note: We will endeavour to secure train tickets from Pattipola to Ella as per the itinerary. However, during peak holiday seasons/busy periods, if the train coming from Kandy is sold out or overcrowded, your leader will action an alternative plan. The group will travel by road to Ella railway station and from there (where most travellers disembark) you will be able to enjoy the train ride from Ella to Badulla. The journey will be approximately one hour journey and has the highlight of passing over the world famous Nine Arch bridge.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Pelwehera Village Resort, Bulagala Junction, Habarana Road, Dambulla 21120
Phone: +94 662 284 281
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Colombo Airport (CMB)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately four hours’ drive from Colombo Airport. Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Colombo Airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
Generally, you should expect rain at some time but with plenty of sunshine. On the plains, day and night-time temperatures are very hot and humid with Colombo having an average daytime temperature of 30C (86F). It can be humid while walking. The temperatures drop as we go higher into the hills where daytime temperatures are 15C-25C (59F-77F) and night temperatures will be cooler (about 10C/50F minimum) and a warmish fleece will be needed.
Spending Money
For small purchases, particularly at local shops and markets, cash is generally preferred and easier for transactions than credit cards.
It is recommended that you allow at least 2,200 Sri Lankan rupees (US$6) for personal expenditures such as stamps, postcards and soft drinks. Some sites may charge a small fee for camera use. Shopping opportunities in Sri Lanka are endless and we suggest you take money for souvenirs, even if you are generally not a keen shopper, we have found most people succumb to the wide variety of handicrafts on offer.
All entrance fees and activities described in the itinerary are included with an exception for the optional activities mentioned on some days.
Optional excursions
— Koggala Lake mangrove boat tour on Day 13: 5,000 rupees per person – enjoy a serene boat ride across Koggala Lake. As you drift through the calm waters, you're surrounded by lush vegetation, including well-preserved mangrove swamps. During the trip, you visit Cinnamon Island, where you learn about the fascinating process of how cinnamon is grown, harvested and processed. You also stop at Monkey Island, a haven for various primate species, including purple-faced leaf monkeys, gray langurs and toque macaques. The excursion lasts approximately 1hr 30min, offering a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and local culture.
Whale watching (November to April)
— The whale-watching trip by private boat should cost about 32,500 rupees per person depending on the number of participants. Minimum 6 passengers required.
Below is the breakdown.
— Cost of Boat- 110000 to 140000 (Depending on the availability, Supply, and demand on the given day) — Entry ticket – 8000 rupees — Tuk Tuks - Rs. 1500 per person. (We cannot take the bus into the Harbor.) — Tips - 500 to 1000 rupees per person.
— Approximate cost for 6 pax - 80 pounds per person — Approximate cost for 10 pax - 65 pounds per person — Approximate cost for 14 pax - 55 pounds per person
Please note, if you choose to enjoy this excursion on your free day, we strongly advise booking a private charter boat through your leader in advance as the boats are always subject to availability. The more members of the group who wish to join the charter the more cost-effective it will be. We do not recommend larger, commercial boats; they may be cheaper, but they do not always respect the welfare of the animals or operate in an environmentally responsible way. We have also had reports of overcrowding on the boats. Please ask your leader for further details on how to book a private charter.
Tipping
Tipping is part of the culture in Sri Lanka. However, it can often be an awkward affair, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar country. As such, your tour Leader will offer to arrange and look after a tipping kitty, which will be used to tip hotel staff, local guides, and other support staff used on the trip (optional excursions are not included in the group kitty).
Your Leader will suggest how much to contribute, but it is usually about 16,500 rupees (approximately US$50) total per person. At any time during the trip, your Leader will happily show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed.
Tips for the Leader and transfer crew are not included in the kitty and are at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation, our recommendation is as follows:
For the Driver and assistant around 650 – 950 rupees (US$2 - US$3) per person per day.
For your Leader around 1,100 – 1,600 rupees (US$4-US$5) per person per day.
Where possible, please try to tip in the local currency.
Highlights
— Walk through paddies and tea plantations — Explore trails rarely taken by tourists — Visit the beautiful lakeside town of Kandy — Enjoy sunrise on Adam's Peak (seasonal) — Search for leopards in Yala National Park
Trip Details
Product Code: 4339
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: h bridge.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TGY
Starts: Dambulla, Indian Ocean
Finishes: Dambulla, Indian Ocean
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts, five lunches and one dinner included — All accommodation — All transport — Entrance fees for listed activities — Tour leader throughoutAccommodation
Hotels & Wild CampingYou will stay 13 nights in hotels, all with twin-bed rooms. There will also be one night of full-service wild camping. For the one night camping, you will be in a remote area with limited facilities. The tents provided have two camp beds with bedding which your local team will prepare for you in advance. There is a toilet tent with a sit-down toilet and a shower tent for basic washing provisions. A cooking team will prepare all meals, which are usually served outside. Worth Knowing: There is no access to wifi or charging facilities (phones/cameras etc) at the camping area.Hotels in Sri Lanka are becoming increasingly busy and, occasionally, we must find alternatives to the ones we typically use. We endeavour to find the nearest alternative with a similar standard of rooms.The standards and styles of hotels on this trip vary. Some of our selections are based on location and what is available in the area or the character and atmosphere at the premises. Some properties in the hill region may not have air conditioning in rooms and instead have fans. This is due to the cooler climate.Single supplements are available on request (not available for three nights).Paying the single supplement may not mean you receive a double or twin room for sole use. The room you are allocated may differ from hotel to hotel and, on some nights, a smaller one-person room may be allocated.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4370 (CAD 291 /day)
Itinerary
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)
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)
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).
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)
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. 2024 Accommodation: Earl's Regent Hotel 2025 Accommodation: Hotel Suisse (or similar)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Zoe Humber - Traveled, November 2023
Fantastic trip - highly recommended Great trip from start to finish showcasing lots of different parts of Sri Lanka. The hiking was great and really got you away from the tourist hot spots. Beautiful scenery up in the mountains and forests, tea plantations, lakes, waterfalls. It was more beautiful than I had imagined. Hotels were all of a good standard, several with pools. I would have preferred not to camp the one night but that is just me! I liked that there weren’t lots of long road journeys and the itinerary was well paced. Lots of opportunities to sample Sri Lankan food. Great wildlife and birds. We were lucky enough to spot a leopard but the safari would have been fun even if we hadn’t as there was still lots to see. Overall, a brilliant trip as you see and do so much in the 15 days. Most Inspirational Moment Hard to pick one! Probably hiking in the Knuckles mountain range as you were truly away from other tourists. Thoughts on Group Leader Sujee worked tirelessly to ensure we all had a great trip. Everything was very well organised and it was great to have the same driver and assistant for the entire trip. They also looked after us superbly. Always there with a smile, snacks and drinks on our return from a hike.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/17/2023
Sarah Hibbert - Traveled, March 2023
Walking the best of Sri Lanka I have recently returned from the most incredible walking trip in Sri Lanka. The walks were very diverse, up mountains, through rainforests and around serene lakes. We also explored the cities, beaches and National Parks (where we were lucky enough to see a Leopard!). Our leader, Ruwan, was first class – he was very organised, friendly, told us interesting stories about the culture and history and took us to meet lots of local families, who were all lovely. I couldn’t speak of this trip more highly. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the top of Adams Peak where we visiting the temple and watched the sun rise with all the locals, who also made the journey to the top. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader was phenomenal!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2023
Annabel Ions - Traveled, February 2019
Walking and cultural experience in Sri Lanka This was a wonderful trip with an excellent guide Neelanka made this an amazing trip His English and knowledge of nature and local culture was very good His efficiency in allocating room keys was one of the best – very important after a long drive We did not need to touch our luggage from exiting the airport to arriving back Our strap broke and within half an hour it was repaired!!!! Water was freely available from large containers that we could fill our reusable bottles or containers and complimentary Sigiriya and the Lion Rock Fortress was an amazing visit Unfortunately we did not get to the summit of Adams Peak due to the masses of mainly local people. However I did feel the experience was something like I have experienced before with family carrying the frail and old, babies being carried and some only in flip flops or barefeet Leech socks used and needed Most Inspirational Moment Lion Rock Fotress Adams Peak despite not getting to the summit Horton plains Lunch in a local restaurant and then in a local house Thoughts on Group Leader Neelanka is an excellent guide and one of the best we have had the opportunity to meet and have guide us Advice for Potential Travellers Leech socks Some long distances in varied transport if not a good traveller (not us) Be prepared to be sociable with other members of the group (this reall applies to all guided trips) Some compromise needed at times Suggestions No think I have said it all!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/24/2019
Anne Rogers - Traveled, January 2019
A fantastic experience with a first class leader and exciting experiences A first class holiday experience with all the hall marks we have come to love from Exodus holidays. An efficient engaged leader with a real love of his country and ability to show us so many insights into the nuances of Sri Lanka….. even though the weather was changeable we had a fantastic trip made up of interesting walks, wild life and getting to know the local culture and people of the highlands. Most Inspirational Moment Climbing Adams peak with lots of wonderful other Sri Lankans felt very privileged to have this experience Thoughts on Group Leader Very good professional well informed and engaged with the group he was warm and friendly and couldn't do enough for us Advice for Potential Travellers Leech socks a must! do it .....
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2019
Karen Carrington - Traveled, January 2019
Sri Lanka Walking Tour This was an amazing tour. It was very well organised. The walking was good. The countryside and people were fantastic and the guide himself was very personable and knowledgeable. It was totally enjoyable. I would recommend going up Adam’s peak on a Monday-Thursday evening to avoid the crowds, but that is the only thing I would have changed. Most Inspirational Moment Everything was good Thoughts on Group Leader He was born for a job of this type - friendly, funny and knowledgeable
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2019
Chris Burden - Traveled, January 2019
Highlands of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is a very beatiful island with loads of natural and cultural highlights, The tour is descrfibed as walking and treking. If you read the detailed notes it’s fair to say that, yes there are walks, but nothing that I would describe as treking. The walks are comparatively gentle; the jungle walks a bit like Lakeland walks underfoot – but in forest. The climb up Adam’s Peak certainly got the heart pumping, although with the crowds of pilgrims all around there were plkenty of enforced spots where you rested. There was a lot of travel time in vehicles. All as described in the trip details – Most Inspirational Moment Sigiriya was magnificent, beautiful, and unique in my experience. Well worth the well-protected stairs up the rock face to the top. The Adam's Peak pilgrimage to see the Buddha's footprint and sunrise from the summit was a great experience, being a fierce stairway climb shared with grannies who could scarcely move from one step to another, and younger aduklts carrying their babes in arms. Not your usual climb to a summit. Thoughts on Group Leader Neelaka, our group leader was excellent, as were his team. Neelaka had a great knowledge, particularly re wildlife. H ekpetr us well informed always with great charm and humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Look carefully at the details. But I'm glad we didn't. Coach tours are not usually our thing - but this one was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2019
Margaret Curran - Traveled, November 2018
Varied and interesting trip Well organised tour and great tour leader and with plenty of activities and reasonable accommodation. Offers lovely scenery and some challenging hikes, recommended! Most Inspirational Moment Hike up Adam's Peak Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you're fit! Suggestions The train journey would be better and more enjoyable with a seat!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2019
Felicity Brown - Traveled, November 2018
Truly an incredible country The trip was extremely well organised! The day walks were challenging but beautiful and climbing Adams Peak is a must! Our leader Ruwan was exceptional. He really helped us connect with the locals and showed us the culture of Sri Lankan villages. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who is curious to see what Sri Lanka has to offer. Most Inspirational Moment To see how people can live a life so happily with so little. Sri Lanka peoplewere incredibly kind and generous to us throughout and really made you feel safe and welcomed into their home. Thoughts on Group Leader Absolutely faultless. Ruwan went above and beyond for all of us and gave our group such a unique look into Sri Lanka. Outstanding! He is a true asset to your company. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for leeches in the knuckles mountain range. Although there isn’t much to fear. Try to be as open minded as possible! Try everything! Probably not a good country to choose if you don’t like a bit of spice in your food!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/25/2019
Graham Ritchie - Traveled, May 2018
Great trip! A thoroughly enjoyable and well planned trip. Our guide Sujan was great. Hotels of good standard. Good bunch of people. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the devotion of old people climbing Adam's Peak. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent, very amusing. Advice for Potential Travellers Wear socks on temple visits to avoid burnt feet. Leeches are a problem, wear leech socks (£20) or poly bags inside your boots (free). Suggestions Camping was disappointing (and I do a lot of camping). I would have liked to have included Anuradhapura and Polonnawura and instead miss out on the day spent hanging around a (wet) tea planter's bungalow after the Adams Peak climb. We were in Galle during the Buddhist New Year and museums/churches were closed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2018
Nicolo Tassoni - Traveled, February 2018
Highlands of Sri Lanka walking tour Two weeks walking tour in Sri Lank. through cultural hotspots, mountain ranges, tea plantations, national parks. An excellent programme for a first discovery of the Country, its traditions, its people and its wildlife. Most Inspirational Moment I particularly enjoyed the trekkings in the Knuckles Ranges, but found extremely interessing as well the atmosphere of the Temple of the Tooth in Candy and the train journey from Ella to Badulla. Most pleasant place to stroll and relax definitely Galle. Thoughts on Group Leader Sujeewa, our team leader has been truly excellent: very knowledgeable on subjects as different as Wildlife, history, traditional handicrafting. He has also been extremely nice to all of us, attentionate and helpful as well as an excellent organiser. Advice for Potential Travellers It is a very good tour for thos who want to discover a wide range of aspects of Sri Lanka. Walking is an integral part of the trip but not overwelming on other activities such as cultural visits etc.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2018
Frances SMYTH - Traveled, February 2024
Sri Lanka walking Great trip, covering a lot of the best of Sri Lanka. Wholly recommend this trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Sujee, was a perfect group leader in every possible way. Suggestions Booking this trip was a very poor experience which I am dealing with separately with Exodus. The trip itself was wonderful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Andrew and Anne Bowden - Traveled, February 2018
Highlands of Sri Lanka Good walking and sight seeing and experience of Sri Lanka. Adequate/good hotels. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the leopard in Yala national park. Staying in tea plantation bungalow. Walk to Ella Rock and Little Adams Peak. Thoughts on Group Leader Sujan- very knowledgeable, friendly, calm and experienced. Could pronounce place names slower please and clearer and talk about only one day at a time to avoid confusion. Advice for Potential Travellers Take socks for hot temple courtyards, ear plugs for occasional noisy air conditioning. Beware of hot spicy food, including salad and soup, test everything before you eat. But the curried meat is often mild, the heat is in the sauce. Suggestions Adams Peak was so crowded as to be dangerous. The top half was inaccessible owing to numbers of people. NKAR should have known this. A big disappointment. 2.5 hours in jeep on Knuckles with sideways seats and no seat belts, being thrown about on a road that was barely servicable was not a good experience. Why change hotels in Kandy - unnecessary. Why go to a hotel in Colombo when we did not see the town? Stay near airport? Walking round Kandy lake horrid and polluted when beside road. Only temple side of lake is enjoyable. Horton Plains disappointing-crowded with noisy people and so no wildlife. Rethink!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2018
Janet Lillicrap - Traveled, January 2018
Highlands of Sri Lanka A wonderful experience in a beautiful country. Most Inspirational Moment The welcoming smiles of the Sri Lankan people. Thoughts on Group Leader Sujee was excellent - caring, helpful and knowledgeable with a passion for his country. Nothing was too much trouble for him or his team and they were a team who worked really well together. Advice for Potential Travellers Take an umbrella as well as a sunhat! Suggestions no
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2018
Rebecca Horsley - Traveled, January 2018
Highlands of sri lanka A totally encompassing experience. Sujee the guide shared many different aspects of such a wonderful country. Not always easy =as in walking in the rain with leeches(leech socks were invaluable!). We saw many beautiful and diverse places, animals and met very friendly and hospitable people. Most Inspirational Moment It was great to see the wildlife in their natural habitat. Elephants and blue whales to monkeys and colourful birds. The people were so kind. Landscape/scenery varied and beautiful throughout. Thoughts on Group Leader Very good. Kind. Knowledgeable. Sense of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Take leech socks, deet, waterproofs, umbrella. Suggestions The food was excellent. One problem with jewellery that I bought at the gem factory which is hopefully being resolved.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2018
Karin May - Traveled, February 2017
Highlands of sri lanka We thoroughly enjoyed our Sri Lankan experience and found it to be very good value and well organised. It is such a stunningly beautiful green and lush country and the views often made us gasp with delight! The locals were very welcoming and kind and friendly. The trip was very varied and each day was a new and different experience. Our group was mixed but we got along fine and had some great laughs along the way! Most Inspirational Moment There were many - for my husband the challenge of Adams Peak was inspirational. Meeting locals and the beautiful landscapes and walking around the tea plantations and visiting the cave temple in Dambulla, visiting Kandy and the temple of the tooth and the historic port of Galle were just amazing for me. In fact every day there was something inspirational!! Thoughts on Group Leader Sujee was very well organised, very friendly and professional and very kind and also had a good sense of humour! He was very passionate about his country and keen to impart his knowledge - we learned so much about Sri Lanka which was amazing. His back up team of drivers deserve a mention for their hard work and commitment to delivering a top class service, always with a huge smile!! Advice for Potential Travellers Just go and open up your heart to Sri Lanka - you will be fully rewarded! Suggestions The accommodation in Dickoya was very picturesque in a very beautiful location surrounded by tea plantations and a reservoir and I wouldn't want to change this - however the bottom bungalow had a rodent problem in our bedroom and the whole place needed a very thorough deep clean - towels were extremely thin old and stained as were the bed linen. These are issues that could easily be rectified. Review Centre Reply from Exodus We would like to thank Karin for her review, although we are sincerely sorry to hear that she was disappointed with the cleanliness of the accommodation in Dickoya. It is the first time we can recall receiving this feedback and we have raised Karin’s concerns with the property’s management. We understand that these issues have been addressed and arrangements made to prevent rodents from entering the buildings, which we trust will prevent future clients experiencing similar issues. Whilst we realise that this cannot alter Karin’s experience, we hope it shows we have taken her comments seriously. John Penge – Product Manager
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/15/2017
Michael Kingsbury - Traveled, January 2018
Excellent This was one of the best trips I have ever done. The country was beautiful and very varied with excellent walking. The superb local and historical knowledge of our extremely friendly and able guide Ruwan made the trip come alive and he introduced us to many local people all of whom were incredibly friendly and warm. The local food was delicious and the locations well chosen Most Inspirational Moment The friendliness of the tea plantation workers who are among the poorest in Sri Lanka, and an elephant blocking the road on one of our trips Thoughts on Group Leader Couldn't have been better. A really lovely intelligent and capable man Advice for Potential Travellers Go! Take mosquito repellant Suggestions the repellant on your boots makes leech socks unnecessary. nobody used them
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2018
Anne Marie Cavana - Traveled, February 2017
Discovery Sri Lanka 25/02/2017 Were can I begin as this was the most amazing holiday I have ever had . From the beginning to the end there was so many great things I did, everyday was so different filled with so many great experiences. The people are so friendly,with breathtaking views,to the white sandy beaches,even to the hustle and bustle of the city I would highly recommend this wonderful part of the world as there is something for everyone to enjoy Most Inspirational Moment Adams peak was what I wanted to achieve on this holiday, as I knew it would be one of the most beautiful places to see. To reach the top of the mountain and wanting to see what the temple was like when I got there. Eventually three of us made it to the temple at the top,It felt like you could touch heaven as the clouds were just beneath you. Breathe taking views It was the most challenging of all the walks we did but I felt so humble to get to see and be part of the pilgrim The Sri Lankan people with there children,carrying their babies, old and frail achieving to reach the very top to worship, people stopping off along the side of the trail to rest and have tea . Such a honor to be there and get to the top Thoughts on Group Leader Sujeewa Rathnayaka was a fabulous guide, full of local knowledge going above and beyond his job. He arranged lots if different experiences for us to be part of , giving individuals there dreams come true. When we arrived from the train in Ella, we were greeted by the other members of Sujeewa team with bunches of flowers, that was such a lovely touch. His team of drivers and assistant were more than excellent so friendly they couldn't do enough for us all Advice for Potential Travellers I would highly recommend this holiday, as it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. With happy and friendly people along the trip, they were delighted for us to see and be part of the country Suggestions Exodus have planned this holiday with great detailed experiences for everyone to see and enjoy I can't wait to see we're I can go next xxxx
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/27/2017
Phyllis Ryan - Traveled, January 2017
A Great Experience A fantastic experience. The weather wasn’t always with us, but we enjoyed ourselves anyway. The treks were varied and very interesting. The whale watching trip is well worth the extra money, so do it! Most Inspirational Moment The most inspirational moment of my trip was Adam's Peak. The amount of pilgrims going up there carrying elderly or disabled relatives or friends was amazing. Lots of young people too, and different religious beliefs. Truly inspiring!! Thoughts on Group Leader Sujan was a very good guide. Very informative, and helpful. He was always there with us, and kept an eye on the slower members of our group. He arranged many little treats with our kitty, too. Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you have adequate mozzie spray. I had taken plenty, but still got bitten.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2017
John Clarke - Traveled, January 2017
Highlands of Sri Lanka A thoroughly enjoyable group tour of the southern half of Sri Lanka. Highlights included an overnight ascent of Adam’s Peak and whale watching off the south coast. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the top of Adam's Peak in time for sunrise (notwithstanding that the clouds had gathered). Thoughts on Group Leader Sujan was excellent throughout and provided good local knowledge and background information - all with a nice sense of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers It's worth doing some homework on Sri Lankan birdlife before you leave, and take a good pair of binoculars. Suggestions Generally the accommodation was good, the highlight being the tea plantation bungalows. If I'm being critical, the campsite didn't really work for me - it might be better to consider finding a lodge or guest house instead.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2017
Susan Gearing - Traveled, November 2016
Highlands of Sri Lanka We enjoyed this holiday immensely. It gave us an insight into a beautiful country and its people, history, geography and development. Much of this was made posible by an exceptional leder,Ruwan Balasooriya who managed to combine organisational skills and knowledge with a pleasing sense of humour. Walking companions proved good company and generally accommodation, travel and food were up to expectations. It was one of our best-ever holidays. Most Inspirational Moment Glencairn tea plantation - its location, general ambience, including winderful views Trek to Horton Plains and World End Visit to a 'tsunami' family Views too many to mention Thoughts on Group Leader Exceptional. See above. We were a group but he found time for us as individuals. Advice for Potential Travellers Exodus covered the ground well enough Suggestions In any holiday, there will be one or two small matters. The stay at the campsite was agood idea but the site could use some help in upgrading and siting of toilet facilities. Buffet at Insight hotel needed more attention. However none of this impacted on our enjoyment of the holiday
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2017
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