Hike, Bike & Kayak Sri Lanka with Roxane

Your adventure begins in the coastal town of Negombo, situated near Colombo’s international airport. Feel free to arrive at your convenience on Day 1, as there are no scheduled activities until the important welcome meeting at 5:30 pm.

For early arrivals, immerse yourself in the coastal charm of Sri Lanka by observing local fishing activities and indulging in fresh seafood. Explore the scenic countryside on a bicycle, available for rent with assistance from the hotel reception.

Commence your day early with a private vehicle journey (approximately 3 hours) to Dambulla, boasting the largest and well-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.

Upon arrival and check-in at your accommodation, take a short drive to Sigiriya for your initial activity – an ascent of the renowned Lion Rock’s 1200 steps. This ancient carved-rock fortress dramatically rises above the plains, with near-vertical walls elevating the ancient city of Sigiriya high into the air, safeguarding the secrets of the Kassapa Kingdom behind a challenging climb along steep staircases.

Along the way, explore the water and boulder gardens, frescoes, and the mirror wall. The subsequent part of the climb, lasting about 30 minutes, involves navigating steep walkways and steps leading to the rocky plateau, towering 200 meters above the jungle below.

Revel in breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the nearby Pidurangala Rock. Descend and return to Dambulla for a leisurely evening.

Experience a leisurely day with a relaxed jeep safari (approximately 2-3 hours) in the nearby Minneriya National Park. This diverse park encompasses evergreen forests and scrublands, providing a habitat for sambar deer, leopards, and elephants often seen in their natural surroundings.

Following the safari, embark on a private vehicle journey (approximately 2 hours) to the Knuckles Mountain Range, where you will reside for the next two nights.

Named for its resemblance to human knuckles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts 34 dramatic mountains ranging from 900 to 2,000 meters. Enveloped by dense forests, waterfalls, and terraced rice fields, the range offers some of Sri Lanka’s most captivating hiking trails. Tonight, connect with nature as you camp alongside the pristine waters and natural rock pools of the Thelgamu Oya stream.

In preparation for tomorrow’s hike, your activities are limited to a delightful evening walk around the village, followed by relaxation by the riverside and an inclusive dinner.

Embark on a moderate 2 to 3-hour hike through a stunning forest to reach Knuckles’ renowned Mini World’s End, an impressive observation point offering panoramic views of the Thelgamuwa Valley and a sheer drop of 1192 meters (4000ft) to the forest floor.

The misty green valley and distant mountain peaks create a truly spectacular scene. Following the hike, enjoy a scenic vehicle transfer to Kandy (approximately 2.5 hours).

Nestled in the hills of the Kandy plateau, this city was the last capital of ancient Sri Lankan kings. The remainder of the day is yours for exploration – consider relaxing by the scenic lake in the town center or visit the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

The temple houses the Buddha’s tooth relic, which holds significant political importance, as it is believed that whoever possesses the relic governs the country. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kandy’s temple and its status as the last city of the Sri Lankan Kings contribute to its cultural significance.

Commence your day with a picturesque train journey to Hatton lasting approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, embark on a cycling adventure directly from the train station, reveling in the undulating scenery of extensive tea estates nestled in the verdant, tree-lined hills.

Cruise your way to the charming village of Norton Bridge. Upon reaching your hotel, those seeking an active experience can choose to hike up to Adam’s Peak. This revered peak attracts pilgrims who ascend a candle-lit trail in the evening, passing shrines and food stalls along the way.

Alternatively, unwind with a delightful cup of Ceylon tea – the choice is yours.

Following breakfast, hop back on your mountain bike for a predominantly downhill journey through the heart of tea country. Cycle from Hatton, traversing Bogawantalawa, renowned for premium Ceylon Tea, and reaching Balangoda while pedaling through the sculpted green hills of ‘the Golden Valley of Ceylon.’

Enjoy snack breaks and a lunch stop, providing ample fuel (and photo opportunities) for your ride. Conclude your cycling adventure with a transfer to the charming coastal town of Mirissa (approximately 3 hours). This town, with its dual personality as a fishing village and beachside resort, offers the perfect setting to unwind by the beach after a series of active days.

For those inclined to stay active, explore nearby Weligama, an ideal spot to catch the waves at one of the local surf or bodyboarding schools.

Start your day with a short drive (approximately 1 hour) to the small town of Unanwitiya, your jumping off point for an exciting day kayaking down the Gin River. After instruction from our expert guides, cruise down the clear waters of the river as it winds its way downstream on a mixture of occasional white but mostly flat water. Paddle past dense forests, huge sandbanks, tea plantations and rice paddy fields while keeping an eye out for monitor lizards, colourful birds and the occasional troop of monkeys.

After the kayaking, head to the nearby UNESCO World
Heritage coastal city of Galle. Once the main port for the cinnamon trade, this former Portuguese then Dutch colonial city features a maze of rambling streets, colonial buildings, mansions, ancient churches, a characterful lighthouse, and it’s crowning jewel, the imposing 17th-century fort. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean this is surely one of the most dramatic structures in all of Sri Lanka.

Start your exploration on an afternoon cycling tour Galle Fort then get to know the city more intimately on a walking tour along the ramparts and winding streets of the Fort. Return to relaxed Mirissa in the evening for a well-earned rest after an active day.

Rest day at the beach in Mirissa – optional surfing

Leave Weligama post-breakfast, traveling to Colombo with a 2.5-hour transfer. Check into your hotel and embark on a city walk, exploring Petta Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament, and the National Museum.

Conclude with a visit to the Barefoot fairtrade store for a chance to support local cottage industries with a variety of handicrafts. Optionally, join a group dinner celebrating your journey through a tantalizing food crawl along the city’s market stalls.

Today concludes your adventure, and there are no planned activities post-breakfast. Feel free to depart at your convenience or extend your stay to further explore this captivating city.