Pure Sri Lanka
Pure Sri Lanka
Pure Sri Lanka
11 Days Starting in Negombo and ending in Colombo
Visiting: Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe National Park Safari, Unawatuna, Galle, Colombo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SLCO2415
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 24
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Beach Tours, Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Pure Sri Lanka" tour, a cultural odyssey through the heart of Sri Lanka. Begin in the coastal town of Negombo, then venture inland to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya and the spiritual cave temples of Dambulla. Experience the vibrant cultural scene in Kandy, including a traditional folk dance show, and take one of the world's most scenic train rides through lush tea plantations. Explore the laid-back town of Ella, encounter orphaned elephants at Udawalawe National Park, and unwind on the beaches of Unawatuna. Conclude your adventure in the bustling city of Colombo, exploring its rich history and vibrant nightlife. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture, making it an ideal getaway for any traveler.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Negombo
Location: Negombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Camelot Beach Hotel (or similar)
Our Sri Lankan adventure begins in Negombo. Find your feet in this diverse & laid-back town with coastal beaches, local fish markets and a working Dutch-style canal system. This evening you'll meet up with your Trip Manager and your team for a full brief of the travels about to unfold, before heading out for the first taste of some local delicacies.
Day 2: Negombo To Sigiriya
Location: Negombo, Sigiriya
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we'll drive inland to Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress town in the Matale District.
Home to palace ruins set on a giant ancient lava rock, and surrounded by ancient relics of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is a hotspot of historical significance here in Sri Lanka. After checking in to our accommodation, we'll begin our explorations with a guided visit to Hiriwadunna village, a spiritually important site where Prince Siddhartha was said to have attained Buddhahood. We'll sit down for an authentic Sri Lankan lunch here at the village, surrounded by greenery and wildlife. After waving goodbye to Hiriwadunna, we'll head back to our hotel where we'll join together for an included dinner tonight.
Day 3: Sigiriya
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We couldn't visit Sigiriya with exploring the incredible Sigiriya Rock Fortress that's been dominating the skyline ever since we've arrived, and morning is the best time to visit. After our included breakfast we'll take a trip to the fortress to check out the UNESCO-listed 'Lion's Rock', with it's 5th-century buildings, painted rock frescoes and massive pair of lion paws at the entrance. We're back on the road, this time to visit the nearby town of Dambulla where you'll have the chance to find your own lunch. Here we'll find another World Heritage Site, the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka complete with five inner sanctuaries, 150 gilded Buddha statues, and Buddhist murals.
Day 4: Sigiriya To Kandy
Location: Sigiriya, Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Queen's Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Feel like a morning adventure? You'll have the opportunity to explore the Pidurangala Rock –a rite of passage for Sigiriya first-timers – on a sunrise trek. Otherwise, catch some extra sleep and save your energy for later. Awed by our time brushing with the ancient world in Sigiriya, it's time to move on to the vibrant cultural scene in Kandy.
Today we're gathering to watch history and mythology explode into colour & rhythm at a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show. Then tonight, you can choose to tuck into some local street food on a tuk-tuk food tour. Ever tried a 'Hopper'? We promise you've never eaten a curry like this before, and you haven't really tried Sri Lankan street food until now.
Day 5: Kandy
Location: Kandy, Ella
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we head further into the hill country on the train, passing lush green hills & waterfalls en route to Nuwara Eliya. This small town is found in the heart of Sri Lanka's famous Ceylon tea industry, so it'd be rude not to visit a tea plantation (& sample some of the best) before continuing on to our next destination of Ella.
We've arrived at Ella where new adventures await!
Day 6: Ella
Location: Ella
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is yours to explore the beautiful countryside and laid-back backpacker hub of Ella, nestled among green cloud forests and tea plantations. In the early morning, feel free to head to Horton Plains National Park and walk to "World's End", one of the highlights here. Or spend the day in Ella doing the local walks that show off the incredibly insta-worthy views down through the Ella Gap, including the cascading waterfalls this small town is famous for. If you're lucky, you might even get to meet one of the locals: the leaf-eating Langur monkey.
Day 7: Ella To Udawalawe National Park
Location: Ella, Udawalawe National Park Safari
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Athgira River Camping (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our journey continues south, as we head down from the hill country into the southern plains where a rich abundance of wildlife awaits us. Our first stop is at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned baby elephants are cared for before being released back into the wild. In this unmissable experience that's sure to pull a few heartstrings, we'll get to watch the babies at feeding time, while you try to restrain yourself from adopting one then and there. But tear yourself away, because next, we're heading to our Special Stay accommodation for the night: glamping alongside the Walawe riverbed in full Safari style, surrounded by the vibrant flora and fauna of the Sri Lankan jungle.
Day 8: Udawalawe National Park To Unawatuna Via Galle
Location: Udawalawe National Park Safari, Unawatuna, Galle, Unawatuna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Long Beach Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to the wilderness, because today you're heading along the coast to the beachside town of Unawatuna. The South West coast of Sri Lanka is famous for its beaches, mangrove forests and picturesque colonial port towns set up in turn first by the Portuguese, secondly by the Dutch and finally the English, and Unawatuna is no exception. This afternoon we'll take a trip to explore the UNESCO-listed historic fort city of Galle, a must-see for its distinctly unique mishmash of European and South Asian traditional architecture. Check out the Portuguese Franciscan chapel, Dutch coat of arms and British Queen Victoria Jubilee Tower. Later this evening, you can opt to learn the ways of Sri Lankan cooking with our cooking demonstration and dinner.
Day 9: Unawatuna
Location: Unawatuna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Long Beach Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Southern tip of Sri Lanka is a favourite hangout spot for some of the most majestic creatures in the world: whales. We're heading to Mirissa, considered to be the best place to get a glimpse of the blue whale, sperm whale and dolphins, and this morning is your chance to head out whale-watching for an unmissable up-close encounter. After the morning's excitement, the afternoon is yours to unwind on the tropical palm-studded beach with clear turquoise waters, or opt in for a surf lesson at nearby Weligama Bay.
Day 10: Unawatuna To Colombo
Location: Unawatuna, Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fairway Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll reach our final destination, the bustling capital city of Colombo. En route we'll make a stop to learn about the traditional art of balsa-wood mask painting, followed by a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation centre. Once we hit Colombo, the best way to continue is with a sightseeing tour of this sprawling, richly multicultural city. Marvel at the atmospheric temples & showstopping mosques, check out the rose-tinted colonial buildings and, if you're brave enough, pick up some hot cobra chillies or souvenirs from the truly authentic (and famously chaotic) Pettah Bazaar. Tonight you can put on your party pants, because we've already sussed out the best rooftop bars and we're going out in style - the perfect way to cap off the last incredible 10 days with your Sri Lanka crew.
Day 11: End Colombo
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Contiki trip finishes this morning in Colombo. Hold back the happy tears as you say goodbye to your newest life-long friends & plan a meet up somewhere in the world soon.
What's Included
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Meals
Enjoy included meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner at various points throughout the tour.
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Guided Visits
Guided visit to Hiriwadunna village and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
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Train Ride
Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
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Safari
Safari Jeep tour in Udawalawe National Park.
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Cultural Shows
Watch a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show.
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Sightseeing
Sightseeing tour of Colombo including temples, mosques, and colonial buildings.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as whale watching, surf lessons, and tuk-tuk food tours are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and processing are not included.
Mode of Transport
Experience a variety of transport modes including scenic train rides, safari jeep tours, and comfortable coach transfers throughout Sri Lanka.
Accommodation
Stay at Rani Beach Hotel, Habarana Village by Cinnamon, Queen's Hotel, Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel, Athgira River Camping, Calamander Unawatuna Beach, and Fairway Hotel or similar.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay at various accommodations including Rani Beach Hotel, Habarana Village by Cinnamon, Queen's Hotel, Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel, Athgira River Camping, Calamander Unawatuna Beach, and Fairway Hotel or similar.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included at various points throughout the tour.
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What guided visits are included in the tour?
The tour includes guided visits to Hiriwadunna village and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
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Is there a train ride included in the tour?
Yes, you will experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
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Will there be any safari experiences during the tour?
Yes, there is a Safari Jeep tour in Udawalawe National Park included in the tour.
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Are there any cultural shows included in the tour?
Yes, you will watch a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show.
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What sightseeing activities are included in Colombo?
The sightseeing tour of Colombo includes visits to temples, mosques, and colonial buildings.
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Are there any optional activities not included in the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as whale watching, surf lessons, and tuk-tuk food tours are not included.
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What personal expenses are not included in the tour?
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights are not included.
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Are visa fees included in the tour package?
No, visa fees and processing are not included.
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What activities are planned for the first day in Negombo?
On the first day in Negombo, you will explore coastal beaches, local fish markets, and a working Dutch-style canal system. In the evening, you will meet your Trip Manager and team for a briefing and enjoy some local delicacies.
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What can I expect to see in Sigiriya?
In Sigiriya, you will visit the ancient rock fortress town, explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple.
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What activities are planned in Kandy?
In Kandy, you will watch a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show and have the option to join a tuk-tuk food tour.
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What can I do in Ella?
In Ella, you can explore the countryside, visit Horton Plains National Park, and enjoy local walks with views of the Ella Gap and waterfalls.
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What activities are planned in Udawalawe National Park?
In Udawalawe National Park, you will visit the Elephant Transit Home, enjoy riverside glamping, and go on a Safari Jeep tour.
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What can I do in Unawatuna?
In Unawatuna, you can explore the UNESCO-listed fort city of Galle, learn Sri Lankan cooking, go whale watching, unwind on the beach, or take a surf lesson.
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What activities are planned for the last day in Colombo?
On the last day in Colombo, you will go on a sightseeing tour of the city, visit temples, mosques, colonial buildings, and the Pettah Bazaar. In the evening, you will visit the best rooftop bars.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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