Backpacking Tour Sri Lanka
When traveling around Sri Lanka, it is best to mark your tour map based on things to do, places to visit, area related attractions and most importantly, climate. Yes, this tiny island of ours boasts different climates in a small space.
Sri Lanka is a year round destination as the monsoon divides it into two seasons. You should choose the right corner of the island accordingly (you can contact [email protected] for the information). For Backpacking in Sri Lanka, the best months are the transitional months from January to April and August to September.
You can expect a variety of things to do: Starting with wonderful beaches, amazing diving spots, national parks for elephants, leopards, monkeys and to tea plantations, huge temples, fortresses and must-see cities (such as Galle), Sri Lanka has something to offer for everyone.
Sri Lanka is a very affordable tourist destination. Even though you pay more as a tourist than the locals do, it is possible to travel on a small budget.
- Best time period to experience – Throughout the year
Hotel Miracle Colombo
On Arrival at Colombo International Airport our representative/chauffer guide/national guide will welcome you. Upon completion of arrival formalities check into the Miracle Colombo Hotel.
Hotel Sky Forest
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Visit Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Climbing Sigiriya Rock
Activities Visit Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Climbing Sigiriya Rock
After breakfast, proceed to Sigiriya.
Pinnawela- Begun in 1972, the Elephant Orphanage at Pinnawela is a remarkable project created to protect abandoned or orphaned wild elephants who would not otherwise have survived in the wild. Relocated to the present size in 1975, today it has grown to become one of Sri Lanka’s key attractions. The elephants roam free within the sanctuary – and the highlight of their (and the visitors’) day is the feeding sessions and when they are led down to the river for a bath. From the banks of the river, you can watch these gleeful herds of elephants splashing around freely on the river.
THINGS TO NOTE: Light cotton clothes /Comfortable shoes / Sun hats / Sun lotions.
Evening, climb the sky fortress of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya
The ultimate icon of Sri Lanka’s historic past, the giant rock fortress of Sigiriya arises high above the flat landscape, surrounded by jungle on all sides. A testimony to the inventiveness of the ancient civilizations of the land, the once impenetrable stronghold of King Kassapa, ‘Sihagiri’ or Lion’s Rock as it was called then, is considered to be the 8th wonder of the world today. The feats of artistry, architecture and engineering at Sigiriya continue to impress visitors with their utter magnificence, even thousands of years on. Intricately landscaped pleasure gardens sprawl out below the rock, giant lion paws hewn in stone mark the entrance to the fortress at its foot, a highly polished mirror wall still carries the scrawled writings of ancient poets.
After breakfast, proceed to Polonnaruwa
Hotel Sky Forest
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Polonnaruwa, Minneriya Nationa Park
Activities Visit Polonnaruwa in the morning , Visit Minneriya Nationa Park by jeeps
Polonnaruwa is one of the most significant kingdoms in Sri Lankan history this medieval capital (11th – 12th Century AD) remains a well-preserved city of ancient stupas, moonstones, beautiful parks, massive buildings and imposing statues. The ruins of this ancient city stay scattered over an extensive area of woodland and can be explored within a day. The city was enclosed by three concentric protecting the royal palace complex at its center, the religious buildings – called Quadrangle, lie to the North and are very well preserved to this day. The largest monuments are found here including the buildings of the Menik Vihara, Rankot Vihara, Alahana Pirivena and Jetavana monasteries, the incredible Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara, the soaring Lankatilaka shrine, the majestic King’s Council Chamber, the Lotus Bath are must see sights. And of course, the giant statue of Polonnaruwa’s greatest king – Parakramabahu, and the vast ‘Sea of Parakrama’ – a 12th century man-made reservoir which dominates the city are not to be missed either.
Afternoon safari in the Minneriya National Park
The Minneriya National Park encompasses the ancient Minneriya Tank which was built in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasen. Today, the ancient reservoir fills during the North Eastern monsoon, but gradually shrinks as the dry season approaches. During this time herds of majestic Asian Elephants, sometimes over 300 in number, converge onto the receding shores of the Minneriya tank to forage on the surrounding greenery. This unique phenomenon is the highest concentration of wild Asian Elephants on Earth and has come to be known as “The Gathering”. This phenomenon peaks during the months of August and September which is the height of the drought and is an opportunity not to be missed by wild life enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
After breakfast, Proceed to Kandy
Hotel Lost and Found Hotel – Kandy
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Dambulla Cave Temple, Temple of Tooth, Cultural Dance Performance
Activities Dambulla Cave Temple, Temple of the Tooth and witness a Cultural Dance Performance
An icon of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Cave Temple houses unique drawings in five magnificently constructed cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla. See beautiful cave paintings along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold
Kandy-The cultural epicenter and the hill capital of the island, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second city and home to the Temple of the Tooth – the country’s most important religious shrine, and the traditional pageant the Esala Perahera. Although modernity and urban sprawl has changed the face of this once quaint hill station, it still carries a regal atmosphere with graceful Kandyan style architecture mingling with colonial buildings set around a tranquil lake surrounded by green hills. The kingdom of Kandy was the last stronghold of the Sinhalese, clinging to its sovereignty long after the island had fallen to the Portuguese and Dutch and the English, preserving its own unique customs and culture until the very last. These traditions live on today in the city’s unique music, dance and architecture.
After breakfast, visit Peredeniya Botanical Garden
Hotel Lost and Found Hotel – Kandy
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Peredeniya Botanical Garden, Silk Factory, Gem Museum
Activities Visit Peredeniya Botanical Garden, visit to Silk Factory and the Gem Museum
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya are about 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It attracts 2 million visitors annually. It is near the Mahaweli River (the longest in Sri Lanka). It is renowned for its collection of orchids. The garden includes more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. Attached to it is the National Herbarium of Sri Lanka. The total area of the botanical garden is 147 acres (0.59 km2), at 460 meters above sea level, and with a 200-day annual rainfall. It is managed by the Division of National Botanic Gardens of the Department of Agriculture.
Afternoon visit to Silk Factory and the Gem Museum in Kandy.
After breakfast, proceed to Ella.
Hotel Hangover Hotel – Ella
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Sita Cave/ Bambarakanda Falls
Activities Visit Sita Cave/ Bambarakanda Falls / Ella Gap
The main attraction of Ella is the breath-taking view from the ‘Ella Gap’ – looking out between the towering bulk of Ella Rock on the right and through a gap in the hills to the plains far, far below. While the village itself may not offer much in the way of attractions the locality certainly makes up for it. The majestic Ella rock looming over the village provides an arduous but rewarding hike – and the views from the top are well worth the effort. The beautiful Ravana Ella waterfall is an impressive cascade – the widest in Sri Lanka, is also a sight not to miss. The nearby caves are steeped in legend according to which, the ancient king Ravana held the Indian princess Sita captive in them.
Full day leisure.
Hotel Hangover Hotel – Ella
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Sita Cave/ Bambarakanda Falls
Activities Visit Sita Cave/ Bambarakanda Falls / Ella Gap
After breakfast proceed to Mirissa.
Hotel Hangover Hotel Mirissa
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Beach
Activities Whale Watching Safari
Mirissa is a small village perched on a beautiful crescent of beach on the South of Sri Lanka made famous as a world renowned site for whale watching. Regarded as the closest point to where the giant Blue whales congregate due to favorable sea conditions. The ocean around Mirissa is popular with the giants of the sea – no less than five types of whales (blue whale, Bryde’s whale, sperm whale, killer whale and pilot whale) and four kinds of dolphins (spinner dolphin, bottle nosed dolphin, striped dolphin, Risso’s dolphin)can be spotted. There are many that offer ocean trips to see these giants but it is advisable to pick certified tour operators and guides. Off shore, the pace of life is quiet with a scattering of guest houses and simple cafes on the beach. Mirissa also offers water sports facilities such as sailing, fishing, coastal cruises, river trips, sea kayaking, snorkeling and boating for those looking for some action.
Proceed on a whale watching safari with picnic breakfast. Back to the hotel and spend the day at leisure.
Hotel Hangover Hotel Mirissa
Meals Picnic Breakfast
Attractions Whale Watching Safari
After breakfast, participate sightseeing tour around Galle
Meals Breakfast
Attractions Dutch Fort of Galle, National Maritime Archeological Museum
Visit the Dutch Fort of Galle as well as the National Maritime Archeological Museum.
The new hub of ‘cool’ and creative activity in Sri Lanka, the Southern capital of Galle is enjoying a great comeback. Galle and its outskirts have now become a favored hotspot for travellers looking for an all-round holiday. The main attraction of Galle is the 17C Dutch Fort, a UNESCO protected World Heritage site. Historically, Galle was a location of paramount importance due to its strategic location on the South coast as well as its natural harbor. The center of ancient trade in gems, pearls, spices and more, Galle was the port of call for many seekers of tropical treasure
Thereafter proceed to Balapaitiya.
The beautiful Madu River or Madu Ganga is located in the South West coast in Balapitiya. It is considered as Sri Lanka’s second largest wetland. A boat ride on this lagoon which takes about 2 hours ensures a breathtaking and fascinating experience. Madu Ganga wetlands is home to over 300 species of plants and nearly 250 species of vertebrate animals and consists of many islands of various sizes. The largest island is known as “Ma Doowa” and the smallest is called “Satha Paha Doowa’ for its resemblance to a local 5 cent coin. Other places of interest are the Kothduwa Temple, a wooden bridge 300 metres long that is constructed across the river and cinnamon island. The main occupations of the local inhabitants are producing cinnamon, cinnamon oil and prawn fishing. On your journey you will also observe some traditional fisherman and traditional fishing kraals (ja-kotu) set up to trap lagoon prawns. Another recent attraction is the ‘fish massage’ /’fish therapy’. Different types of fish are put into tanks, which are floating on the river and visitors can immerse their feet and experience fish nibbling at their toes. You will pass huge mangrove forests by the riverbanks and will ride under short mangrove tunnels.
Proceed to Colombo.
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka. A race course, which was a horse racing hub in 1893 and a World War II airstrip, will be your first stop. The course is now furnished with lavish clothing, food and tea boutiques. Afterwards, head to Pettah to visit the Floating Market’s architecturally designed stalls, where concrete floors and minimalist decor are designed to reflect the calm water of the lake below. Afterwards, head to Independence Square, where the revamped shopping arcade has turned the colonial masterpiece into one of the trendiest shopping areas in Sri Lanka.
We ‘Thank you’ for selecting GETAWAY SRI LANKA as your ‘Trusted Travel Partner’ and wish you a safe journey back to your destination. We hope to see you soon to discover the rest of our beautiful island.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- 09 nights/ 10 days Accommodation in a SGL bed on Home Stays. Similar home stay will be provided on unavailability. Cost may change.
- Meal Plan – Bed & Breakfast basis throughout the tour (except Day 1 breakfast)
- Arrival, departure transfers and the tour as per the itinerary in Budget car
- Fuel, Parking & fee
- All currently applicable government taxes and service charges
- Cost of Entrance Tickets & Jeep hire charges to the sites visited in the itinerary.
- Lunch & Dinner cost
- International air-fare, airport tax or any kind of insurance cover other than what is stated.
- Items of personal nature like drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips, etc.
- Any other Sites not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fees to Sri Lanka.
GENERAL T&C:
Note : Light cotton clothes / Warm clothes for up country visit / Waterproof jackets /Comfortable shoes / Sun hats / Sun lotions / Insect repellents are recommended.
Hotel check-in time: 1400 h, Hotel check-out time: 1100 h.
‘No Show’ will not be entitled to any refunds.
PAYMENT T&C:
- In order to confirm your tour, full payment is required upon confirmation.
- Credit Card payments require a 3.7% surcharge.
- Bank TT or Pay Pal (3.5% surcharge required) are accepted which is a common mode of payment.
TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY:
- 90 days or more before departure – REFUNDED
- 89 to 64 days before departure – 25% of Tour Cost
- 63 to 43 days before departure – 50% of Tour Cost
- 42 to 31 days before departure – 75% of Tour Cost
- Within 30 days of departure – 100% of Tour Cost
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