Adventures with Purpose: Sri Lanka
Suggested Itinerary






















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Overview
This extraordinary journey through the cultural and historic heartlands of Sri Lanka presents a wonderful mix of conservation, community and crafts. Staying at some ground-breaking eco resorts, camps and hotels, as well as enjoying a truly unique hosted stay with a local Sri Lankan family, you’ll experience a side of the country that few visitors ever see. Add to that a chance to visit many of the island’s most iconic heritage sites and you have an adventure that really is fit for ...
This extraordinary journey through the cultural and historic heartlands of Sri Lanka presents a wonderful mix of conservation, community and crafts. Staying at some ground-breaking eco resorts, camps and hotels, as well as enjoying a truly unique hosted stay with a local Sri Lankan family, you’ll experience a side of the country that few visitors ever see. Add to that a chance to visit many of the island’s most iconic heritage sites and you have an adventure that really is fit for purpose.
From its colourful capital you’ll venture across a landscape blanketed with lush plantations and natural beauty, where World Heritage Sites assail you at every turn and traditional arts and crafts still hold sway against the encroaching modern world. You’ll encounter hermit monks and hatchling turtles, spend time with artists and artisans and learn to cook the local cuisine the way the locals do. You’ll also enjoy a scenic railway journey through the central highlands, spend two days at a safari camp and experience the unique concept of the world’s first Analogue Forest.
A land blessed with an array of natural and cultural heritage that belies its small stature, Sri Lanka is so much more than just what lies at the surface. This unique journey of discovery allows you to venture beyond the tourist trail and deep into the heart of the land of serendipity.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS






Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE NEGOMBO

DAY 1: ARRIVE NEGOMBO
On arrival in Colombo you will be met and transferred the short distance by car to the nearby city of Negombo, located on Sri Lanka’s western coast at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon. Once checked in, you can pay a visit to a local thimble workshop run by the Villa Hundira and set up to help empower women from the local area. The stunning tapestries that adorn the villa were also produced by these talented women.
DAY 2: NEGOMBO - ANURADHAPURA

DAY 2: NEGOMBO - ANURADHAPURA
Departing Negombo after breakfast, the journey continues with a four-hour drive on to the village of Thirappane, lying close to the ancient capital of Anuradhapura. The drive passes by the village of Puttalam, where you’ll break the journey to visit the small community locally referred to as the ‘Ceylon Africans’. Originating from around Mozambique and Tanzania on Africa’s eastern coast, this somewhat unique community arrived on the island sometime around the end of the 19th century, primarily as slaves and soldiers under the yoke of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonists. Numbering less than 500 today, they have retained many of their original customs, including a penchant for brightly-coloured dress, and the visit affords an opportunity to learn more about their traditions and stories. Continuing on to Thirappane in time for lunch, later this afternoon you will take a short walk out to the Ruwanveliseya Stupa and the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Sacred to the Lord Buddha, it is one of the oldest surviving trees in the world.
DAY 3: ANURADHAPURA

DAY 3: ANURADHAPURA
The day begins with a visit to one of the projects headed up by the UN World Food Programme. Partnered with FEED, it aims to address food shortages amongst school children living on (and under) the poverty line. The rest of the morning will then be spent enjoying a tour of the magnificent remains of Anuradhapura itself, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Touring the site by bicycle provides an opportunity to truly absorb the size and atmosphere of this impressive ancient city. Following lunch back at the hotel, this afternoon you tour the property in the company of the resident manager, learning more about its responsible tourism policy as you explore the solar farm and organic gardens. The day then ends with a visit to the sacred grounds of Mihintale, the cradle of Sri Lankan Buddhism, where you will join a hermit monk for a private meditation session before climbing this impressive peak for some stunning views.
DAY 4: ANURADHAPURA - SIGIRIYA

DAY 4: ANURADHAPURA - SIGIRIYA
No better way to begin your day than with an exclusive consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor and a chance to participate in a private almsgiving ceremony. From here drive to the famed Rock Fortress of Sigiriya. After checking in to your hotel, you can then enjoy a tour of the property, a stunning project that saw an abandoned wasteland turned into an exclusive sanctuary that today is home to man-made wetlands, indigenous forests and over 140 species of birds. Then to finish off the afternoon you will pay a visit to the stunning citadel of Sigiriya, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning anywhere in the world. This evening you can then enjoy a nocturnal wildlife experience with a resident naturalist guide.
DAY 5: POLONNARUWA & MINNERIYA

DAY 5: POLONNARUWA & MINNERIYA
Help support the property’s efforts by planting a tree this morning, before visiting a local community school to learn more about Sri Lanka’s efforts at rural education, and how they manage the transition from community to large cities. This is followed by a drive on to the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, which rose to fame between the 10th and 12th centuries. Another of Sri Lanka’s abundant collection of World Heritage Sites, it can trace its origins back to the second oldest of all Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms. Touring it by bicycle you’ll explore its Royal Palace and Quadrangle and the spectacular Gal Vihara complex. Meet with a local rice farmer who will give you an insight into rice production, before enjoying a traditional home-cooked meal with a local family. This afternoon you are then introduced to the stunning Minneriya National Park on a game drive.
DAY 6: SIGIRIYA - KANDY

DAY 6: SIGIRIYA - KANDY
Visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple to discover the richly painted frescoes that date back over 2,000 years. A wonderful mix of sculptures and paintings, this astonishing complex is filled with depictions of the life of Buddha and the history of the Sinhalese people. Lunch today will be taken at a private spice garden, where you’ll not only learn more about the vast array of spices for which Sri Lanka is famed, but also be able to help prepare lunch in a cookery class. From here you move on to Kandy. Beautifully located amongst the thickly forested mountains of the central interior, its impressive Botanical Gardens provide a wonderful respite from the heat of the day, lying as they do some 460 metres above sea level. You’ll also pop into Hela Bojun Hala, a spacious open-air food court set up with the aim of not only providing delicious Sri Lankan food at subsidised prices, but also providing employment opportunities for local women. The real highlight over the next couple of nights will be the chance to stay with a local family, experiencing the genuine pleasure and warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality and family life.
DAY 7: KANDY

DAY 7: KANDY
Spend time with a local artist this morning to learn more about some traditional arts and crafts, and the attempts being made to keep them alive against the threat of urbanisation and modern lifestyles. The artistic theme is then continued with visits to the Gadaladeniya Temple, a community of artisan craftsmen and the remarkable Suriyakantha Centre for Arts and Culture. Occupying an 18th century village chieftain’s house and inspired by quintessential Dutch architecture, Suriyakantha is home to a fascinating collection of ancient books, Buddhist manuscripts and traditional furniture and paintings. Lunch here is then followed by a visit to a guru of the ancient Kandyan art of dancing and drumming, before you return to Kandy by way of a handloom weaving workshop that still follows the principles of ‘Dumbara weaving’, a traditional craft that has been recognised by UNESCO.
DAY 8: KANDY - BELIPOLA ARBORETUM

DAY 8: KANDY - BELIPOLA ARBORETUM
Proceeding to the Kandy Railway Station this morning you’ll board an early train on to the town of Bandarawela, set amongst the glorious hill country of Badulla District. An engineering marvel, the track negotiates its way through some of the most picturesque countryside imaginable, ascending past tumbling waterfalls and into the famed hills of Ceylon’s lush tea plantations. Disembark and continue your journey to Belipola Arboretum, an ecological man-made forest. Described as the world’s first Analogue Forest, once you’ve checked in and freshened up there will an opportunity to learn more about this ground-breaking concept.
DAY 9: BELIPOLA ARBORETUM

DAY 9: BELIPOLA ARBORETUM
There is an array of programmes on offer today, from an introduction to Analogue Forestry to opportunities to participate in organic farming, planting and garden design. This really is a rare chance to learn first-hand how to create something quite extraordinary, literally from the ground up. Later this evening there will also be a chance to connect with the Belipola management team to further enhance any ideas or objectives and answer any questions you might have.
DAY 10: BELIPOLA ARBORETUM – YALA NATIONAL PARK

DAY 10: BELIPOLA ARBORETUM – YALA NATIONAL PARK
This morning we head for Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destinations. Staying at a private tented camp, the next two days provide opportunities for some truly unforgettable wildlife encounters, as you head out in the company of experienced guides to enjoy some of the rarest habitats of flora and fauna on earth. Meet with one of the owners of Ceylon Wildlife Safaris, known as one of the best rangers in Sri Lanka for leopard conservation, and set off together on an afternoon jeep safari. Back at the camp you will enjoy comfortable surroundings, locally sourced food and the satisfaction of a sustainable environment that includes a no plastics policy and solar power to reduce its carbon footprint.
DAY 11: YALA NATIONAL PARK

DAY 11: YALA NATIONAL PARK
Spend the day in a world populated by elephants and leopards, mangrove swamps, tropical forests and some 255 species of birds, including lesser flamingos, paradise flycatchers and crested hawk eagles. Wake up at dawn to explore this exciting wilderness at one of the most interesting times of day, before enjoying some downtime at the camp and another park exploration later in the afternoon.
DAY 12: YALA NATIONAL PARK - GALLE - UNAWATUNA

DAY 12: YALA NATIONAL PARK - GALLE - UNAWATUNA
After an opportunity for one final wildlife safari this morning, you’ll depart the park and head towards Galle, on the southwestern tip of the island. Stop en route to take a walk through a cinnamon plantation and learn about the celebrated Ceylon Cinnamon, before enjoying a guided walk around Galle Fort this afternoon. Historically a fortified township, this magnificent UNESCO Site was the outcome of successive incursions by the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial powers. Its great ramparts protect a meandering network of narrow streets, lined with old Dutch-style houses and pillared verandahs. A living, breathing town, life goes on behind its towering walls, rubbing shoulders with old spice warehouses, court squares and the reminders of its colonial heritage amongst the ancient frangipani trees. From here, continue on to your exclusive island eco-hideaway in Unawatuna.
DAY 13: PUPPETRY & TURTLE CONSERVATION

DAY 13: PUPPETRY & TURTLE CONSERVATION
A morning at leisure provides a chance for some whale watching, or a visit to the local fish market. Alternatively you might prefer a cycle ride through the southern countryside. This afternoon you will then be introduced to another traditional art form under threat of modern amusements. Puppetry is one of the oldest and most popular forms of entertainment in the rural countryside and you will meet with one of the most prominent puppeteers in the country, part of a family that for three generations has been keeping the tradition going and relevant. You can also visit the well-known mask factory in the area. From here you get the chance to visit a world-renowned turtle conservation project that is operated with the help and involvement of the local community. Originally founded by Victor Hasselblad, the Swedish inventor and photographer more renowned for his lenses than his conservation efforts, to date the hatchery has released nearly four million turtle hatchlings into the sea. This evening you will add to that total as you enjoy a picturesque sunset on the beach.
DAY 14: DEPART COLOMBO

DAY 14: DEPART COLOMBO
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sigiriya
'Vil Uyana', meaning a garden of ponds, is a wonderfully peaceful hotel with splendid eco credentials, located just minutes away from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Spread over 24 acres, at its heart is a wetland system consisting of paddy fields, marshes, and waterways reintroduced by the hotel. Once an abandoned slash and burn cultivation area, over four years the team worked relentlessly to produce what is now a thriving man-made wetland habitat, home to increasing numbers of diverse flora and fauna. Dotted between are 36 dwellings, a fusion of sustainable design, rural architecture and modern luxuries. The rustic style dwellings are named after the surrounding habitat, blending seamlessly into the rural landscape, and come with private terraces, private plunge pools, luxury bathtubs and/or a private courtyard. Dine on delicious meals in gorgeous settings such as beside a serene lotus filled lake or overlooking Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Other facilities include a gym, swimming pool, spa, wine cellar and library.
Uga Ulagalla, Anuradhapura
Set amongst 58 lush acres bordering two ancient reservoirs, Uga Ulagalla is a wonderful accommodation option for exploring Anuradhapura and the rest of the Cultural Triangle. Renovated from a 150-year-old village chieftan mansion, the property's design is influenced by traditional Sri Lankan architecture and artistic flare, but with a modern twist. The 25 villas seamlessly blend into the surrounding forest and paddy fields and all feature private pools and living spaces. The organic paddy field provides fresh produce to the restaurant, serving national and international fusion cuisine. Authentic meals are served at the Kamatha restaurant, set within the paddy fields, using traditional food preparation equipment and cooking techniques. The property has also been a pioneer in responsible and sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka, producing a solar farm, organic gardens, and more., all of which you can learn about when staying here. Between activities, find the spa hidden within the lush foliage for a truly relaxing and pampering experience.
Ceylon Wild Safaris, Yala National Park
Located on the border of Yala National Park, Ceylon Wild Safaris offers luxury comfort while camping. Immersed in the wilderness, it offers all-inclusive tents with private bathroom facilities and a dining area serving Sri Lankan and continental dishes. Spacious tents with king-size beds are fitted with air-conditioning, an electronic safe, a private wooden seating area and deck, private plunge pool. Besides safari drives, guests can enjoy games and activities arranged by the property or relax in the lounge area with a cocktail or fine wine from the fully stocked bar. The camp runs on a full board basis and guests can enjoy meals around the campfire or dine alfresco under the trees, relax in the hammocks or at the library, and spot not only leopards but a wide range of other wildlife on the daily game drive safaris.
Villa Hundira, Negombo
Described as a luxury homestay, Villa Hundira offers the very best of warm hospitality and beautifully crafted decor, set within tropical gardens and located just 30 minutes from the airport. Given the property's close proximity to the sea, there is no end to the delicious freshly-caught fish available, expertly cooked up with local flavours and ingredients, with a touch of Swedish influence in the menu as a nod to one of the owners. Rooms and suites are spacious and colourful, tastefully decorated with local furnishings and designs. Be sure to visit the property's Thimble Workshop, home to the hugely talented ladies of Thalahena, who handcrafted the flamboyant tapestries that adorn the villa.
Chami's Homestay, Kandy
What better way to experience Sri Lanka in its truest form than to stay with a local family. This wonderful homestay is hosted by Chami and his family, a local with a passion for art and architecture. Guests will be treated to the warm hospitality of their hosts, and get a real insight into daily Kandyan life. Located in the quieter side of Kandy, here you can get to know the neighbourhood, visit the local market, and help in the kitchen, learning a few culinary secrets as you go. Rooms are simple but elegantly decorated, with lovely communal areas including a small garden to enjoy the cooler breezes of this area. Enjoy meals together and long discussions into the evening, exchanging stories and building new friendships, the perfect memory of your time in Kandy.
Belipola Arboretum, Belipola
A truly unique experience for the true nature lovers, a stay at Belipola Arboretum is a fantastic way to learn more about Analogue Forestry and Natural Farming. This ecological man-made forest has been described as the world’s first Analogue Forest, and your time here will be spent with the local experts, showing you different concepts and processes that have made this project such a success. Not only fascinating, this is a rewarding experience that will open your eyes to an area of Sri Lanka very rarely visited by foreigners. Accommodation is basic but clean and comfortable, and guests will be in great hands with the local team.
Kaju Green, Galle
Nature and the environment are the primary focus for this unique property. Located on an exclusive inland island on the edge of a wildlife sanctuary, Kaju Green is the perfect hideaway for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in some of Sri Lanka's richest lush landscape. A great base from which to explore Galle, this oasis of calm offers guests the chance to relax and rejuvenate, maximising on the elements and minimising on the impact. The property is home to just seven en suite eco-friendly bungalows, which successfully combine local architectural designs and materials with modern-day decor, generously spacious so as to offer guests the ultimate level of privacy.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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