Embark on your Sri Lankan adventure by exploring the Yala National Park on a safari jeep. Home to a wide variety of wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and crocodiles, you can also relax at the serene beach of Palatupana after the safari.
Ride on an elephant's back through the Sri Lankan jungle on a tour of Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park. The tour exposes you to a quintessential village life experience and may also provide a close encounter with exotic birds and wild elephants.
Take a scenic train ride from Habarana to Ella through the magnificent tea country. Revel in the panoramic views of the mist-laden green hills while passing over numerous viaducts and through many tunnels on a journey that you won't forget.
Visit one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful waterfalls, the Sera Ella Falls. Take a refreshing dip and feel the force of the water while enjoying a picnic near the falls. You can also take a nature trail that goes to the top of the falls.
Ascend the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the Lion Rock, to witness Sri Lanka's stunning kingdom ruins. This ancient fortification provides a panoramic bird's eye view of the island's forest preserves, the village of Sigiriya below, and the landscape beyond.
Take a break and switch to the beach mode in the coastal town of Mirissa. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches and adventurous "Secret Beach", this is the perfect spot for whale-watching, surfing, and paddleboarding adventures.
Experience the thrill of White Water Rafting in Kitulgala through adrenaline-rushing rapids of the Kelani River. The location's beautiful surroundings are perfect for everyone, from novice to experienced rafters.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historic Galle Fort, showcasing 400 years of history. Walk around and be mesmerized by this site's captivating colonial-style cultural heritage and beautiful beaches.
Travellers may navigate through Sri Lanka by train, buses, or taxis. Hiring a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide is suggested for adventure travel as rentals may not include insurance. The travel costs may be estimated at around $70/day, including fuel and driver's expenses. Most hotels and accommodations can assist with arranging transportation.
For those with more time, extra activities worth considering include walking tours in Colombo or a combination of mountain-hiking, river-safaris, and temple-visiting around the Kandy area. Otherwise, if time is limited, Galle's Fort and Mirissa's beaches are the best locations for a quick and budget-friendly itinerary.
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), also known as Colombo Airport, is the main international airport of Sri Lanka. It is located in Katunayake, 35km north of Colombo, and serves direct flights to more than 40 locations. From Bandaranaike Airport, it's about 4 hours and 230km by road to reach Yala National Park.