Walking through Sri Lanka’s Cities and Jungles

What You'll Do

This walking holiday is designed to showcase Sri Lanka: we visit urban areas, off the beaten track villages and farms and immerse ourselves in the colonial history of Sri Lanka.

Colombo is the modern Sri Lanka, an eclectic mix of bustling markets, skyscrapers, dense suburbs, tucked away parks and temples.

We will head away from the hustle and bustle into the relaxing calm of the rural hinterland. In this countryside of farms and small villages we will get a glimpse of local village life and enjoy the country's nature and wildlife.

Lastly, we head to Galle and learn about the Colonial impact in Sri Lanka here a melting pot of cultures co-exists, each influencing the other. Though a well know area for tourists, we will get get under the skin of this region, experiencing it like a local.

Experience Itinerary

Airport to Colombo

On arrival, we will meet you at the airport and drive to Colombo (1hr). Spend some time to relax after your flight. Around 5PM we set out on a food walk through the historical “Fort” district. Heavily influenced by the Colonial powers who occupied Sri Lanka from 1600s onwards, there are Portuguese, Dutch and British influences in the architecture. The food is a similar eclectic mix, of Indian, Malaysian, Muslim and Sri Lankan. Walk through the bustling market streets, grab a G&T at the port before heading for dinner at local roadside restaurant.

Accommodation:

The Steuart

Meals:

Dinner on the food walk

Exploring Colombo

With your bellies full, we will spend today putting your energy to good use! We’ll walk through Colombo to get a glimpse of life in the capital. We will walk through the cities memorials, suburbs, parks, financial district, temples and lakes. Sit on a bench and people watch or grab a refreshing King Coconut in the shade. There’s no better way to experience a city than on foot. A few transfers by car will be done to cover the most area.

Accommodation:

The Steuart

Meals:

Breakfast only

Colombo to Ratnapura

We now head away from the bustle of urban areas and head inland to the district of Ratnapura. Low land tea, rubber estates, paddy and spices fill the surroundings. We spend the next 3 days in a hidden little hotel by a lake. Spend the evening walking the hotel grounds and exploring the organic garden.

Accommodation:

Lake Serenity

Meal Plan:

Dinner and Breakfast

Day Trip to Sinharaja

Today we head to the country’s last viable area of primary tropical rainforest. More than 60% of the trees are endemic and many of them are considered rare. The reserve is only 21 km from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. We will go on a guided walk with a local naturalist inside the forest.

Accommodation:

Lake Serenity

Meal Plan:

Dinner and Breakfast

Farms at Ratnapura

Today we explore the surrounding greenery and farming life. Go on a walk through the rubber plantations and small villages. A contrast from the urban settings of Colombo.

Accommodation:

Lake Serenity

Meal Plan:

Dinner and Breakfast

Ratnapura to Galle

Today we head to beautiful Galle. The 17^th century Dutch Fort town is a UNESCO heritage site. Galle is an interesting mix religion, cultures and ethnicities. Once settled in we can spend the evening exploring the fort and catching the sunset from the ramparts.

Accommodation:

Fort Bliss Galle

Meal Plan:

Breakfast only

At Galle

Today is leisurely day, lounge around in the morning. For lunch meet up with a local resident who will take you shopping in the local market. Learn to prepare a delicious meal with a Galle based host, whose expertise in cooking has brought her much fame in the area. Whether it’s a Biryani, a seafood feast or hot hoppers with accompaniments, she will take you through an unforgettable culinary journey.

Accommodation:

Fort Bliss Galle

Meal Plan:

Breakfast and Lunch

Departure Day

Sadly, you must say goodbye to Sri Lanka, as this is where the experience ends. We will transfer you to the airport in time for your flight.

Location Information

Your journey will begin in Sri Lanka’s capital city, Colombo. Colombo is the beating heart of Sri Lanka, and you will be able to experience all the excitement of the city before heading into the beautiful countryside. The experience will end in Galle, a picturesque city with a rich history.