ADVENTURE TYPE
Status:
Planned
Continent & Country:
Asia, Sri Lanka
Adventure type:
Backpacker
Status:
Planned
Continent & Country:
Asia, Sri Lanka
Duration:
10 days
Group size:
Min: 8
Max: 16
Adventure type:
Backpacker
Difficulty level:
Easy
Accomodation:
Hostels & Homestays
Transportaion:
Bus, Train, Tuk Tuk
Food:
Breakfast included
Lunch and dinner not lincluded
Why should I choose this adventure?
Idyllic Beaches: Sri Lanka boasts an unparalleled array of pristine beaches, each with its own allure. From the tranquil, crescent-shaped coves of Mirissa to the golden shores of Nilaveli, the island’s coastline offers both serene retreats and vibrant water sports havens.
Ancient Heritage and Archaeological Wonders: Steeped in over two millennia of history, Sri Lanka is a living tapestry of ancient civilizations.
Diverse Ecosystems and Rich Biodiversity: Sri Lanka's remarkable geographical variety ranges from the undulating hills of the Central Highlands, where emerald tea plantations blanket the slopes, to the dense rainforests.
Gastronomic Delights: Sri Lanka’s cuisine offers a flavorful journey, with rice and curry featuring a mix of vegetables, meat, and fish, all seasoned with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Try hoppers—crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes—and kottu roti, a stir-fried mix of flatbread, vegetables, and meat, often paired with spicy sambal.
Warm Hospitality: Sri Lankans are known for their generosity and kindness. Beyond the landscapes, it's the connections with locals—sharing Ceylon tea or learning batik-making—that truly embody the island’s charm.
Buy This Trip!
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EXPEDITION PLAN
Colombo
Anuradhapura
Sigirya
Dambulla
Kandy
Nuwara Eliya
Ella
Udawalawe National Park
Hiriketiya Beach
Mirissa Beach
Negombo
Expedition plan
Trip Highlights:
- Explore Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle: Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, and Dambulla—three UNESCO sites where history, culture, and nature come together.
- Enjoy a traditional Ayurveda massage: Rejuvenate your body and mind with an authentic healing experience, rooted in centuries-old traditions.
- Increase the rhythm of the journey in Kandy: Dive into the vibrant culture of Kandy, from its sacred temples to its lively festivals and scenic beauty.
- Conquer Adam’s Peak: Embark on a spiritual trek to this sacred mountain, known for its breathtaking sunrise and mystical significance.
- Taste a bit of England in Nuwara Eliya: Experience colonial charm and cool climates, surrounded by lush tea plantations and picturesque gardens.
- Be amazed by the panoramic train to Ella: Ride the famous hill-country train, offering stunning views of tea-covered hills and waterfalls.
- Find you inner voice with a guided meditation: Center yourself with serene meditation in the peaceful surroundings of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
- Be amazed by the king elephants: Witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat, sleeping in a National Park ready for the safari.
- Relax in the Indian Ocean: Unwind on pristine beaches, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, surfing, and lounging under the sun.
Northern - Central Sri Lanka
Northern-Central Sri Lanka is a fascinating region where history, culture, and nature converge, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of the island. It stretches across areas such as Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Mihintale, forming part of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, an area rich in ancient monuments, temples, and archaeological sites. In addition to these cultural gems, the northern-central region offers picturesque landscapes of vast plains, serene lakes, and green fields. A treasure trove of ancient heritage, spectacular architecture, and natural beauty.
Anuradhapura: In the historical park between spirituality and Buddhism
As one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical and religious significance. The city is filled with sacred sites such as the Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest recorded tree planted in 288 BCE, and massive stupas like Ruwanwelisaya. Anuradhapura offers a deep connection to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist history, with ancient monasteries, reservoirs, and royal palaces spread across the vast archaeological park.
Sigiriya: ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes and a traditional heritage
Known for its dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya stands as an architectural marvel. The fortress, built atop a towering rock formation, offers panoramic views and fascinating frescoes and water gardens at its base. It was once the royal residence of King Kashyapa and is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. The area around Sigiriya is not only famous for its ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes but also for its rich botanical heritage, particularly when it comes to spices and the traditional Ayurveda practice. These two elements have been intertwined in Sri Lanka’s culture for centuries, and they continue to be a significant part of the region’s appeal.
A journey to the Spice Island
Sri Lanka has long been known as the “Spice Island,” and the fertile soil around Sigiriya is ideal for growing a wide variety of these plants. These gardens offer a sensory experience where you can see, touch, and smell the spices that have been used in cooking, medicine, and religious rituals for centuries. They also offer a chance to purchase locally made spice-based products, such as cinnamon oils, herbal teas, and medicinal creams, which make for great souvenirs.
Ayurveda medicine: the therapeutic powers of nature
Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine that has been practiced in Sri Lanka for over 2,000 years, is deeply connected to the use of these natural spices and herbs. Ayurveda relies on the concept of balance between the body’s energies (called doshas) and utilizes herbs, oils, and natural remedies to promote health and treat ailments. If you’re interested in natural healing, exploring the spice gardens and visiting an Ayurvedic spa or wellness center around Sigiriya is an enriching experience. It provides both a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s long history with herbs and spices and a chance to experience the island’s traditional wellness practices firsthand.
Central Sri Lanka
Central Sri Lanka is a captivating region known for its lush landscapes, cool climate, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where you can journey through tea plantations that blanket the rolling hills, sip on fresh Ceylon tea, and witness the beauty of cascading waterfalls like Ravana Falls. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails like those leading to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak, offering breathtaking views of valleys and mountains. Train rides through the central highlands are iconic, with the famous route from Kandy to Ella passing through misty forests and green tea fields. Central Sri Lanka is also deeply spiritual, with Buddhist sites such as Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth offering a connection to the island’s rich Buddhist traditions. It’s a blend of nature, adventure, and history, all set against a serene backdrop.
Kandy: the heart of the island
Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage city that was once the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. Kandy is famous for the Temple of the Tooth, which houses one of Buddhism’s most revered relics—the Buddha’s tooth. The city sits beside the serene Kandy Lake, surrounded by mountains, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and spiritual significance. The ceremonies at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy are a key part of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist tradition. Every day, the temple holds puja (worship) ceremonies where offerings are made to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The most famous event is the Esala Perahera, an annual festival held in July or August. This grand celebration includes a colorful procession with decorated elephants, dancers, drummers, and musicians, all honoring the relic. The relic itself is carried in a special casket on an elephant, and the event draws thousands of people to celebrate Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. These ceremonies are a blend of religious devotion, cultural tradition, and national pride.
Adam’s Peak: the sacred mountain
Adam’s Peak (known as Sri Pada in Sinhala) is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and sacred mountains. Standing at 2,243 meters (7,359 feet), it is famous for its footprint-shaped depression at the summit, which is considered sacred by people of multiple religions. Buddhists believe it marks the Buddha’s footprint, while Hindus associate it with the footprint of Lord Shiva, and Christians and Muslims link it to the footprint of Adam, from the biblical story of the Garden of Eden. The climb is a rewarding experience for those seeking a mix of physical challenge, spiritual significance, and stunning vistas, especially at sunrise!!
Nuwara Eliya: the little England
Located at an altitude of about 1,868 meters (6,128 feet), it was a popular getaway for British colonialists who sought a respite from the island’s heat, and its architecture still reflects this British influence. The town is surrounded by lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and scenic waterfalls, making it a haven for nature lovers. Gregory Lake is one of the main attractions, offering boating and picturesque views. Here we will start one of the most scenic and unforgettable rides in Sri Lanka: the train-journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella.
Winding through the lush hill country, the train travels past tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and picturesque villages. The route offers breathtaking views of verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests, making it a must-do for nature lovers and photographers. The leisurely pace of the train ride allows passengers to soak in the stunning beauty of central Sri Lanka, creating a truly memorable experience.
Discover Ella: Sri Lanka's Scenic Highlands Haven
Ella is a scenic town in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, known for its cool climate, stunning tea plantations, and outdoor activities. Key attractions include Ella Rock, offering panoramic views, the picturesque Nine Arches Bridge, and the Ravana Falls. Ella’s laid-back atmosphere, with cozy cafes and guesthouses, makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Monastery in the clouds: Guided Meditation tour
The Monastery, located near Ella, is home to more than 20 Theravada Buddhist monks. Those who make the journey up the mountain are rewarded not only with breathtaking views but also with profound spiritual teachings of the Buddha. Meditating at a Buddhist monastery in Sri Lanka offers a deeply enriching and transformative experience. Known for its strong Buddhist heritage, the country has several monasteries that provide meditation retreats and spiritual practice opportunities. When you meditate at a Sri Lankan monastery, you can expect to be surrounded by a serene, peaceful atmosphere. Many monasteries are set in beautiful locations, with lush gardens and scenic views that further enhance the meditative experience.
Southern Sri Lanka
Southern Sri Lanka is a coastal paradise where vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history seamlessly blend together. Stretching along golden beaches, the region is a haven for those seeking sun, surf, and relaxation, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and whale watching. South Sri Lanka invites you to unwind, explore, and discover its unique fusion of nature, adventure, and heritage.
Udawalawe National Park: surrounded by elephants
Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations, especially known for its elephant population. Located in the south of the island, the park covers over 30,000 hectares and offers an exciting safari experience. The park is home to around 500 wild elephants, making it one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see these majestic creatures up close.
Besides elephants, visitors may encounter a variety of animals, including water buffalo, monkeys, crocodiles, leopards, and various species of birds.
Hiriketiya Beach: the next place to be on Sri Lanka’s south coast
Hiriketiya Beach is the ultimate slice of paradise on Sri Lanka’s famed south coast. A small, rounded bay backed by curved palm trees and thick tropical jungle, with crashing waves rolling in being carved up by local surfers and hidden cafes and guesthouses tucked amongst nature, it’s somewhere you never want to leave. Known as Hiri for short, this small coastal community is known to be a second home for many after weeks of travelling.
There’s nowhere quite like Hiriketiya.
Mirissa beach: the hippy, laid-back vibe of the island
The waters here are perfect for everything from surfing to snorkeling, with sea turtles gliding effortlessly beneath the surfa ce, adding a magical touch to your beach day. Mirissa is also a top destination for whale watching, where you can hop on a boat and witness the majesty of blue whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. As the day winds down, the town’s easygoing vibe takes over—beachfront cafes and laid-back bars fill with travelers sipping fresh juices or cocktails, while the bohemian atmosphere makes it feel like time slows down. Mirissa isn’t just about the beach; it’s about soaking in the carefree, hippy spirit, where adventure and relaxation meet in a perfect blend of natural beauty and free-spirited charm.
The Island’s cuisine
The island’s cuisine is a sensorial journey through layers of spice, flavor, and history. Indulge in the complexity of Sri Lanka’s famous rice and curry, a colorful assortment of vegetable, meat, and fish dishes, each seasoned with an aromatic blend of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Experience hoppers—crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour—and the indulgent kottu roti, a stir-fried medley of chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat, often served with a side of fiery sambal.
Accommodation: Quality Hostels for the Backpacker Experience
As a true backpacker adventure, this trip takes us to a new destination almost every night, staying in Sri Lanka’s high-quality hostels and guesthouses. Rooms accommodate 2 to 8 people, each with a private bathroom, offering a mix of comfort and convenience. Sri Lankan hostels are known for their excellent standards, clean facilities, and welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal for connecting with other travelers and immersing in the backpacking culture. This setup allows us to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse regions with a social, adventurous spirit.
Transportation
All transportation is included, making it easy to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes from north to south. We’ll travel by a mix of comfortable minivans for shorter distances, local buses, panoramic trains, to maximize travel time, and tuk tuk for funny routes. This variety allows us to experience the full range of Sri Lanka’s stunning regions while ensuring a smooth and efficient journey throughout the trip.
Recommended Flight Itinerary
Our travel itinerary is designed to maximize your experience in Sri Lanka, featuring a blend of cultural exploration, scenic landscapes, and local immersion. Please note that the plane ticket to Sri Lanka is not included in the package. However, we recommend flying as a group on suggested flights.
This trip is not yet scheduled in the dates and we will share the flight tickets soon. Please stay tunned or contact us for more details
Additional Attractions
Our tour is carefully designed to give you the best experience in Sri Lanka, focusing on authentic, culturally rich locations and avoiding the usual tourist traps. We aim to provide a nearly all-inclusive journey, blending a guided experience with the freedom of backpacking, so you can fully immerse yourself in ancient Sri Lanka’s culture and natural beauty. However, for those who crave a little extra excitement, here are some additional attractions worth considering:
Surf Lesson
Relax on Sri Lanka’s stunning beaches or dive into the waves with optional surfing lessons! We can arrange personalized lessons tailored to the group’s interests, or even organize an exciting boat trip to hidden surfing spots, where you may encounter elephants and other amazing wildlife along the coast. Surf lessons and boat trips are available for an additional fee, payable locally.
Yoga lessons
Enhance your stay with optional yoga lessons, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation across Sri Lanka’s beautiful scenery. We can organize classes tailored to the group’s preferences and skill levels, whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach or practice yoga surrounded by nature. Yoga sessions are available for an additional fee, payable locally.
What’s Included in the Price:
Transportation: All in-country transportation, including:
- Private minibus with local driver, including fuel costs
- Airport transfers within Sri Lanka
- Bus/train tickets
- Tuk Tuk with drivers
Accommodation:
- 9 nights in quality guesthouses and hostels in rooms for 2-4 people, each with private bathrooms
Meals: Daily breakfasts
Extras:
- Club t-shirt or hoodie
- Local guide for excursions
- Luxtreme Adventure Club leader’s support from the beginning to the end of the trip.
- Unique backpacking experiences and unforgettable memories
- Connection with friends for life in the Luxembourg travel community
- Comprehensive, customized travel program with continuous guidance from a Luxtreme leader
What’s Not Included in the Price:
- Meals: Lunch and dinner (to allow you the freedom to explore Sri Lankan cuisine)
- International Flights: Flights to and from Sri Lanka
- Baggage Fees: Checked luggage fees on international flights
- Airport transport: From Luxembourg to departure airport or any other of your choice
- Insurance: Health and travel insurance – buy your travel insurance or check your credit card if it covers travel insurance expenses
- Visa to Sri Lanka: arranged online by each participant, many EU nationalities have visa free entry to Vietnam
- Medical Testing: Any required medical tests or diagnostic requirements mandated by transit or destination countries
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