Pure Sri Lanka
Pure Sri Lanka
$2225
Pure Sri Lanka
11 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Galle, Unawatuna
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SLCO25
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka with the "Pure Sri Lanka" tour. This adventure begins in the bustling city of Colombo, where you'll explore its vibrant markets and cultural sights. Discover the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya and the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple. Experience the thrill of a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show in Kandy, and take one of the world's most scenic train rides to Ella, where lush tea plantations await. Encounter wildlife on a safari in Udawalawe National Park, and explore the UNESCO-listed fort city of Galle. Relax on the beaches of Unawatuna and immerse yourself in local culture with a cooking class. With included meals and unique accommodations, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Colombo
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Camelot Beach Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Fairway Hotel (or similar)
Our Sri Lankan adventure begins in Colombo. Find your feet in this diverse city, buzzing with modern life, colonial buildings & historical monuments. 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: Colombo To Sigiriya
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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.
Day 3: Sigiriya
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We couldn't visit Sigiriya without 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. We'll then head back to our hotel where we'll join together for an included dinner tonight.
Day 4: Sigiriya To Kandy
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Queen's Hotel (or similar)
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. Later tonight, you're free to do what you want. But we've got a hunch that the street food here might catch your eye...
Day 5: Kandy To Ella
Location: Ella
Accommodation: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel (or similar)
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: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel (or similar)
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. 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: Udawalawe National Park
Accommodation: Athgira River Camping (or similar)
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'll jump aboard our Safari Jeep to explore the park's wildlife and then 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: Galle
Accommodation: The Long Beach Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Insight Resort Ahangama (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to the wilderness as we head along the South West coast to Unawatuna, here we'll take a trip to explore the UNESCO-listed fort city of Galle & in the evening you can learn the ways of Sri Lankan cooking with locals. At Mirissa, why not head out whale watching for an unmissable up-close encounter. The afternoon is yours to unwind on the beach or opt in for a surf lesson at nearby Weligama Bay.
Day 9: Unawatuna
Location: Unawatuna
Accommodation: The Long Beach Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Insight Resort Ahangama (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today 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: Colombo
Accommodation: Fairway Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Fairway Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll be heading back to where it all began - 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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Sigiriya Village Experience
See rice fields and jungle landscapes in Sigiriya and enjoy a traditional lunch.
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Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Visit the fortress on top of a giant rock with massive lion’s paws at the front.
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Dambulla Cave Temple
Explore the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, a World Heritage Site with five inner sanctuaries.
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Kandy Cultural Show
Experience a traditional Kandyan Folkdance show with fire-eating and acrobatics.
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Scenic Train Ride
Enjoy one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Ella.
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Tea Plantation Visit
Visit a tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya and sample some of the best Ceylon tea.
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Udawalawe National Park Safari
Go on a safari in Udawalawe National Park to see elephants, leopards, and crocodiles.
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Galle Fort City Tour
Explore the UNESCO-listed fort city of Galle.
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Colombo City Tour
Explore the bustling city of Colombo with its atmospheric temples and colonial buildings.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as whale watching and surf lessons are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Sri Lanka are not included.
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 2 Dinner (D)
Included Experience
- Sigiriya: See rice fields and jungle landscapes as you ramble around this rural Sri Lankan village. Then refuel with a traditional lunch.
- Sigiriya: A fortress on top of a giant rock. And did we mention it has massive lion’s paws at the front? Amazing!
- Sigiriya: Want peace and tranquillity, or an array of Insta-ops? These cave temples offer both. But hide your wallet from the cheeky monkeys.
- Kandy: Fire-eating. Acrobatics. Epic costumes. All based on the dances of Indian shamans. Why not recreate it on TikTok with your crew?
- Kandy: This pristine-white sanctuary is an ultimate pilgrimage for Buddhists. It holds a relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth.
- Kandy: One of the world’s most scenic train rides. Pass tea plantations and lush greenery, via mountain tunnels and steep valleys.
- Ella: Who doesn’t love a nice cuppa? And now you’ll get to see where the magic happens.
- Udawalawe National Park: This rehabilitation centre for orphaned elephants is seriously cute. You won’t ever want to leave.
- Udawalawe National Park: Hang out with elephants, leopards, crocodiles – the whole jungle crew.
- Unawatuna: Colonial buildings meet modern life in this UNESCO-listed spot. There are heritage walks, foodie hotspots and fun nightlife, all up for grabs.
- Unawatuna: Wanna learn more about Sri Lankan village ceremonies? We'll visit a traditional mask painting centre to see how these masks (that are still used in rural villages today!) are created.
- Unawatuna: Meet some baby sea turtles and learn about their release back into the wild.
- Colombo: Explore this bustling melting pot of a city with 20 of your new besties. It’s home to some seriously cool sights.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Sri Lanka with a mix of scenic train rides, including the famous journey from Kandy to Ella, and comfortable drives between destinations, ensuring you experience the country's diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including the Fairway Hotel in Colombo, Habarana Village by Cinnamon in Sigiriya, Queen's Hotel in Kandy, Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel in Ella, Athgira River Camping in Udawalawe, and Insight Resort Ahangama in Unawatuna.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the safari in Udawalawe National Park?
During the safari in Udawalawe National Park, you can expect to see elephants, leopards, and crocodiles, among other wildlife.
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Sigiriya Village for a traditional lunch, a Kandyan Folkdance show with fire-eating and acrobatics in Kandy, and a visit to a traditional mask painting center in Unawatuna.
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Is there an opportunity to learn about local tea production during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to a tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya where you can sample some of the best Ceylon tea.
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What activities are available in Ella?
In Ella, you can explore the beautiful countryside, enjoy local walks with stunning views through the Ella Gap, and see the famous waterfalls. You might also encounter the local leaf-eating Langur monkeys.
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Are there any optional activities not included in the tour package?
Yes, optional activities such as whale watching and surf lessons are not included in the tour package.
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What is the significance of the Dambulla Cave Temple visit?
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a World Heritage Site and the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, featuring five inner sanctuaries, 150 gilded Buddha statues, and Buddhist murals.
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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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All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
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We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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