Unusual encounters in the land of green gold

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Welcome to Sri Lanka

  

  You will be welcomed at Colombo International Airport by your driver, then you will head directly to Negombo. (Room check-in at 2pm. Early check-in can be booked for an additional fee.) Negombo is a charming fishing village where, every morning, you can watch the fish market set up on part of the beach. The Negombo fish market is one of the most authentic and popular in Sri Lanka. The smells of fish mix with those of spices, fruits, and vegetables, creating an atmosphere that is both lively and intoxicating. Discover this traditional fishing village: fish market on the beach, fishing port, city center... or free time to relax at the hotel in the Negombo area.

• day 2

  Walk in the village of Meddepola.

  

  Route to Meddepola. You will arrive at the village of Meddepola and begin your 2 to 3 hour hike. During your hike in this typical village, you will be able to observe the different crops such as rice fields, rubber plantations, and coconut plantations, as well as the daily routine of the local people. Then, you will continue your journey to Dambulla. In the evening, a short walk in the Dambulla cooperative market, rich in fresh vegetables and tropical fruits. This is the best time to mingle with the local community.

• day 3

  The pearls of the Cultural Triangle

  

  After breakfast, you will set off to discover the Lion Rock of Sigiriya, one of the most iconic and unforgettable sites in Sri Lanka. A true gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is renowned both for its natural beauty and its fascinating history. Considered one of the wonders of the world, this site attracts many travelers every year. The highlight of the visit is the climb to the top of the rock, where the remains of an impressive ancient palace once stood. Up there, a spectacular 360° view of the surrounding countryside awaits you. At the foot of the rock, stroll among the sumptuous gardens, natural pools, and admire the 5th-century frescoes: an immersion between nature and history, which will give you a true sense of wonder. In the afternoon, depart for an excursion into the countryside, to the small village of Hiriwaduna. Nestled in a landscape of dry zone shrub forests, gravel paths, and modest houses, this village immerses you in the authentic daily life of rural Sri Lanka. On the program: a bullock cart ride (20 min) through lush vegetation, a short crossing in a traditional canoe (20 min), then lunch with a local family on a farm. After the meal, continue your journey through banana plantations and end the experience with a moment of sharing over a freshly picked coconut juice. As an option, you can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage in a specialized center, supervised by a doctor (to be paid on site).

• day 4

  Sri Lanka Wildlife Department

  

  Visit to the Dambulla cave temple, famous for its five caves among the best preserved in the world, as well as for its gigantic golden Buddha statue and the Golden Temple located at its feet. Dambulla is the largest and best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock rises 160 m above the surrounding plains and houses more than 80 caves. The main attractions are found in 5 of them, containing 153 statues and numerous murals. The history of this site dates back to the 1st century BC and was enriched up to the Kandyan period in the 18th century. Then, drive to Wasgamuwa National Park. Optional: in the afternoon, 4x4 safari in Wasgamuwa National Park (45 EUR per adult, to be paid on site). This park is a real favorite for our agency Insolite Lanka. Little known to the general public, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can fully enjoy the beauty of the safari without the crowds, and with greater respect for the animals in their natural habitat. We recommend going there in the early afternoon to end the experience with an unforgettable sunset behind the Knuckles mountains: a magical show, bathed in warm and soft colors. Wasgamuwa is renowned for the richness of its wildlife and its wild character. Unlike other parks, it stands out for the presence of many predators, including the famous sloth bears. 23 species of mammals have been recorded there, and it is particularly known for sheltering some of the largest elephants in Asia.

• day 5

  Stroll in a typical village

  

  Discovery of the village of Wasgamuwa by bike or tuk-tuk (about 1h30). You will then continue to the village of Attanwala, nestled in the heart of the Knuckles mountains. You will take the "butterfly path", a trail running along a canal above the rice fields, which will lead you to the village temples. 3 to 4 hour hike in the village of Attanwala: an opportunity to meet the locals, discover their daily life and take part in their agricultural activities (rice fields, farms, etc.). An unforgettable experience to share an authentic moment of local life. Free late afternoon in the mountains.

• day 6

  Route to Kandy

  

  Departure towards Kandy. On the way, stop at the Bambarakiri Ella waterfall. The surroundings are home to a great variety of flora, fauna, and birds, and a suspension bridge spanning the falls adds a picturesque touch to this already splendid natural setting. Continue towards Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, which houses the famous relic of the Buddha's tooth. On the road, visit a spice garden in Matale. This stop will allow you to discover different types of plants and spices, as well as the methods of making spices and Ayurvedic preparations, known for their health benefits. Explanations are often given in French to facilitate understanding. Quality local products (spices, oils, etc.) will be offered for sale. However, we specify that no purchase is required: as in many tourist sites, this is part of the visit, but you are completely free to make your own choices. This garden is certified by the Sri Lanka Tourism Board, guaranteeing the quality and safety of the products.

• day 7

  Kandy in depth

  

  In the morning, meet at the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, a great symbol of Buddhist culture. In the afternoon, free time to visit the city of Kandy, including a wood carving center to discover the process of woodwork in the country, as well as a gem workshop and museum to learn about the unique local working methods. In the early evening, attend a traditional and cultural dance show presented by Kandyan dancers and drummers.

• day 8

  Immersion in the tea plantations

  

  Departure for Nuwara Eliya via the superb tea route, lined with lush landscapes. Several stops are planned to meet the local population and observe daily work in the plantations. Then, visit to a tea factory. The region has many production factories: discover the manufacturing process, stroll through the heart of the plantations to meet the pickers (tea is always picked by hand in Sri Lanka), and taste different varieties of teas (black, green, white). Discover the city of Nuwara Eliya, nicknamed “Little England” for its colonial charm and temperate climate. You will also experience a ride on a local train through the tea plantations. Tickets are not reserved in advance due to frequent cancellations and delays; your driver will purchase them on the same day, in standard class. In case of heavy crowds, you may have to travel standing. The railway journey between Nanu Oya and Haputale is renowned as one of the most picturesque in the world. The train winds through mountains, villages, and endless tea plantations, offering breathtaking panoramas. You will also pass through several tunnels, making the journey even more spectacular. One of the great charms of this trip lies in the proximity to the local population, who use this train daily. Free late afternoon in Haputale.

• day 9

  The Lipton Seat tea plantations by tuk-tuk

  

  After breakfast, departure by tuk-tuk to Lipton Seat. A beautiful walk awaits you, through tea plantations and landscapes as far as the eye can see. The ascent will take you to the top of Lipton Seat, where the statue of Sir Thomas Lipton stands, owner of five tea plantations in Sri Lanka. It was from this point that he used to contemplate his lands. The panorama here is exceptional, offering a view over the provinces of Uva, the South, Sabaragamuwa, the Centre, and the East: truly one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Sri Lankan mountains. On the way, you will have the opportunity to meet many tea pickers as well as the Tamil inhabitants of the region. Continue to Palmadulla for a visit to a gemstone mine. Then, head to Palabaddala, a region rich in biodiversity, nestled in the Samanala mountains. Arrival at your lodge, in the heart of nature, surrounded by tea plantations, a river, and a mountain forest. Free late afternoon to enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel's river.

• day 10

  A day in the village with locals.

  

  After breakfast, we leave the lodge via a dirt path before climbing a few steps and turning towards fields of tea, coffee, and other spices. Higher up, a villager welcomes us into his home to introduce us to the preparation of a typical Sri Lankan dish. You will also have the opportunity to observe the kithul harvesting process. A real feat: the villager climbs along a trunk about ten meters high to extract the sap from the flower, which will be used to produce a slightly alcoholic drink, ideal to accompany the dish we have just cooked. After this tasting, we hit the road again towards the Mapalana waterfall, renowned for its exceptional freshness. On the way, we are warmly welcomed by the inhabitants of a small village. The hike leads to the fifth highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, with its 141 meters in height. The route crosses magnificent landscapes and flowering bushes. Upon arrival, we go up the river and enjoy a refreshing swim, enhanced by an unusual moment: small fish come to nibble at our skin, as if they were waiting for us. At the end of the day, return to the lodge by tuk-tuk. The afternoon ends with participation in various local traditional games, such as carrom or elle, alongside the lodge team.

• day 11

  Boat ride on the Bentota River

  

  After breakfast, departure towards Ingiriya. Possibility to visit a local school and observe the educational lifestyle of the children in the region (possibility to offer useful items to the children of the area). Please note that schools are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and during holidays. Boat ride on the Kalu or Bentota river. Then, continuation towards the paradise beaches of Induruwa. Induruwa beach is a lesser-known attraction to the general public, yet it has a lot of potential. A golden stretch of virgin sand makes it the ideal place for tourists seeking tranquility and privacy. Far from the hustle and bustle of neighboring towns, Induruwa beach is ideal for families, friends, and couples who wish to enjoy the sun and refreshing waters.

• day 12

  The beaches of southern Sri Lanka

  

  Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this beach. With not too many tourists, surrounded by nature and featuring turquoise water, discover the beach. Possibility to visit the city of Galle with an extra charge.

• day 13

  The beaches of southern Sri Lanka

  

  Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this still unspoiled beach, rarely visited by tourists, surrounded by nature and bordered by turquoise waters. Optionally, you can visit the historic city of Galle for an additional fee.

• day 14

  Goodbye, Sri Lanka.

  

  Your driver will take you to the airport according to your flight departure time.