

COLOMBO MORNING RIDE
Day 1 (--)
Picked up from your hotel in Colombo by 9.30am to depart for a full day of it by getting an early start! Watch and enjoy as majestic Colombo opens up to and the teaming streets burst with busy markets trading textiles, spices, crafts and local food. See all the action Colombo has to offer as the locals begin their working days with beaming smiles, traffic, and blissful organized chaos ! Transfer return back to your hotel around 1.00pm
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COLOMBO SUNSET RIDE
Day 1 (--)
Picked up from your hotel in Colombo by 3.30pm to come and join us to feel the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in old Colombo town as it rolls into sunset. Cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian ocean and enjoy the chaos as the 9 to 5 workday winds down and the city lights come alive for yet another evening of buzzing activity. Transfer return back to your hotel around 7.00pm
Accommodation
As most itinerary proposed, you won't have choice of properties design/service prestation/quality & level (from Guesthouse to 5* boutique/nature retreat/camp) during your stay. For this adventure trip only few nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area, apart of that please let us know your desire of property type you wish to experience and your budget and we will add this expectation to this originate itinerary.
Sinharaja Rainforest Lodge - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from guesthouse to boutique 5*)
Bush Camp Site - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Glamping 3* to 5*)
Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*)
Day 1
Morning Beach Safari
Start your day by getting coastal with us! The morning time, is typically when things are cooler and the ocean winds are calm. We will be taking you to find some hidden coastal gems, cultural and secrete local places, south coast food and drinks stops! What better way to start the day than to be cruising in your convertible tuk tuk down the southern coastal roads of Sri Lanka with palm trees one side and beautiful beaches on the other.
OR
Sunset Beach Safari
Watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean in the southern provinces of Sri Lanka is one of the most picturesque experiences to have on the island. End you day on the south coast with a blast! We pick you up in afternoon, cruising about to totally unique beachside locations, enjoying local food, drinks and cultural treasures and finish things up at one of our amazing coastal sunset locations!
The property
Gileemale Walawwa originates back to the 18th century during the Kotte reign. This was bestowed upon the ancestors of the family who own it to cater to the King and family and the other dignitaries whenever King or other dignitaries visited Adams Peak. The original part of the house was built in the 18th century and the front portion was built in 1911.
The name of the Gileemale Village originated from the act where the people in the village made a large bonfire (Ginimale’) at the beginning and at the end of the Adams peak season to pass the message to the King.
The Gileemale village is a hamlet away from the hustle and bustle of the city and away from main roads surrounded by nature and two rivers it is actually sitting on a delta. One of the rivers flow adjacent to the house and the River Kalu is 500 meters away from the front of the house. 350 meters away from the house to the right is a Temple dating back to the 17th century. The village livelihood is Small scale tea plantations, Rubber plantations and paddy. Traditional gem pits are in abundance.
Staying at The Gileemale is a fantastic step back in time within one of the most authentic Colonial Mansion set up at the feet of one of the Western Gate of The Famous Adam's Peak. Come, learn and work with its villagers on multiple forms of local agriculture as Tea Pucking/Rubber Collection/Cinammon pick up all in having the most simple way of life, where time goes with the light.
Accommodation
The Walawwa comprises of 8 spacious bedrooms. The other areas include a large front verandah , Two spacious halls upstairs and down stairs , Large balcony overlooking the inner court yard (Meda Midula). Down stairs at the back portion of the house comprises a paved inner court yard (Meda Midula) with a spacious terrace round. The land extent is 18 acres round the House. The antique furniture includes 4 poster beds in every room, Ebony couches chairs, old plates, a dining tables for 18 etc.
Cuisine
Much of the produce is sourced from our own organic farm, with other ingredients purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town. All Sri Lankan meals are included in the price. If you have any special requests we will always try to accommodate them. You can also learn how to cook any of your favourite dishes in our complimentary cooking classes.
Heaven for vegetarian and organic lovers as all sources will come from the farm and will be collected daily following the exact need for each of you. Other ingredients will be purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town.
All meals are included in the price.
If you have any special requests we will always try to accommodate them. You can also learn how to cook any of your favourite dishes in our complimentary cooking classes.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we will always do our best to prepare meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
You will be gather by multiple activities as joining some yoga session by the river side offering the freshness spirit to evolve with the nature surrounding, visit & experience the Herb Garden-Agri & Organic Farm, lose y9urself into the countryside and village roads around Gilemalee. Grab a Kayak or a Canoe and ventrue yourself on the river and embrace yourself with calm of the element. For the Birders, come and join us here, it is a birding paradise due to its altitude and surround which offer nest, food for endemic and resident birds, best time to spot them will be early morning and evening time.
Meals are served either in the patio, ground or first floor terrasse.
Guide
Local Guides come from the village with a few members from slightly further afield.
The Gilemale is committed to the principles of responsible, community-based tourism. The project aims to create as much local employment as well as to keep continue local agricultures through retaining largely traditional processes
Accommodation
The Mudhouse / 4*Rustic Seclusive -
Spread throughout a large expanse of forest on the outskirts of a small village in Sri Lanka lies The Mudhouse – a private and seductive retreat, far away from the beaten track.Flanked by lakes and blessed with abundant birdlife, wildlife and natural beauty, The Mudhouse offers a range of rustic accommodation in private and individually designed huts.Run with environmental sustainability as its core focus, The Mudhouse aims to be a positive force for the people and nature with whom we co-exist.Fun and friendly, this laid-back lodge offers a unique chance to experience rural Sri Lankan life in all its colourful splendour.
Clusters of uniquely designed huts spread throughout a large expanse of forest land. All huts are constructed with natural materials, using ancient techniques with a distinctly modern twist.Each structure is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Whilst all the individual layouts differ, the facilities are essentially the same.All huts have outdoor showers, indoor bathrooms, dining & lounge areas and relaxation spaces adorned with hammocks and mats – all designed in a style that benefits the overall aesthetic and ‘back-to-nature’ theme.There is no mains electricity in the guest areas. Lighting at night is provided by plentiful candles and lanterns as well as subtle, solar powered LED lighting. The local village was connected to the national grid in 2012 and we now have power in the office for charging phones, cameras, ipads or whatever other gadgets you bring.Staying at The Mudhouse is a little like stepping back in time to your own village in the jungle and to a more simple way of life, where things move at your pace.
Much of the produce is sourced from our own organic farm, with other ingredients purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town. Traditional Sri Lankan meals are prepared the traditional way, using clay pots and firewood. Rice and curry is the staple of the country and we offer a huge variety of dishes at any given time.There is no menu as such – meals are prepared according to what is in season and most fresh. We don’t tend to serve much meat as we find it hard to source quality produce locally. Fish, however, is a different story. Being surrounded by lakes and only 30 km from the coast, there is a range of sea and fresh water fish available throughout the year.Vegetarians will be happy here and a wide selection of grains, pulses, seeds, vegetables and fruits are prepared daily – many in ways you may not have come across previously.
The Palmyrah House / 3/4* Contemporary Retreat -
Palmyrah House is situated in the approximate center of Mannar Island, with easy access to any place on the isle. We offer comfortable rooms, delicious food, a swimming pool, traditional well bath, recreational area, gym, library, bar, restaurant and some sightseeing bicycle ride around the safe, clean Mannar Island. Palmyrah House covers 35 acres, hosting fourteen rooms, all manned by our friendly and local staff which has been trained daily and carefully by Udaya (The resident manager and its team). By their genuine personalities, the entire team of The Palmyrah House will take good care of every of your need.
Set of fourteen rooms, all elegantly furnished for maximum comfort dispatch between 4 Superior Rooms (1-2 pax), 8 Deluxe Rooms (1-3 pax), 2 Suite Rooms (2-4 pax). Naturally all rooms are air conditioned, with their own private deck, adjoining bathrooms with hot-and-cold showers and having access to Wi-Fi. One of the guest building houses six bedrooms, with two on the upper deck and four on the lower deck. In addition, there are four chalets, with two rooms each as well as adequate housing for the staff.
All meals are provided and dishes can be tailor-made to your tastes with a little prior notice. However, we do recommended that our visitors try our acclaimed local menu. Meals can be taken either at the restaurant (capable of seating 40 people), or at your own private deck. The food is prepared from the freshest ingredients from each day's ocean bounty as well as the best organic produce from Totum Farms. Guests should also try our homemade palmyrah jaggery and chili paste
Everyone of you need to stay refreshed, whether it be swimming pools, traditional well baths or trips to the beach. Enjoy our delicious local cuisine, made from the freshest local ingredients of land and sea. Burn off those calories at our gym, or take a sightseeing bicycle ride around the safe, clean roads of Mannar Island.
Jefwing Jaffna / 3/4* Modern Jaffna Feel -
Rising above the colourful city, Jetwing Jaffna is your gateway to Sri Lanka’s undiscovered northern province.
This stunning seven storey building offers a panoramic view of Jaffna and its surroundings. Combining traditional Sri Lankan & South Indian feel hospitality with impeccable service in the heart of Jaffna. Every one of our 55 deluxe rooms, walls adorned with traditional art not only tell stories of this region’s history, but also complement our furnishings of rustic northern colours – creating a distinctly modern living space for your absolute comfort. And with the added benefit of being one of the tallest hotels in Jaffna, your private balcony is arguably the best viewpoint on the peninsula – with panoramic views of the city, lagoon, and lands beyond.
Of our 55 Deluxe Rooms are available in double or twin configurations, five of which are interconnecting and three which are specially equipped for the differently abled.
Home to a revered regional cuisine prides itself on distinctive seafood specialties among several other delights. Crab, cuttlefish, and prawn are staples of all Jaffna restaurants, and have inspired our signature menu in our Main Restaurant filled with an assortment of edible northern wonders and global favourites to suit every palate.
The property
Home stay opens doors to experience day to day lives of the locals in the comfort of their own homes. Most visitors break time between visiting sites of natural importance to helping children at school or involving with women’s group activities while on holiday.
The north of SL is predominantly headed by single women or parent; later being the collateral damage of war; thus such income generated form home stays or tours guided by locals is a huge plus to their struggling economy.
Accommodation
Basic-range mobile tent type self setup – all basic camping bedding including (floor mat), with outdoor shower & toilet. If you like, you could bring your own sleep sheet
Cuisine
Camping cooking style around bond fire – vegetarian and special diets catered for.
Facilities & Services
Camping outdoor bathroom and shower, electricity 6:00 PM-midnight via generator and low voltage LED solar lights bulb, camping outdoor kitchen
Guides
You will be accompanied by experienced river canoe guides accompany with an support backup draft (bringing all camping equipment & foods)
After collecting your luggage, you will reach the arrival hall where all money changer will appear first, (if you want to make change for the whole trip, it will be the best time - All money changer operators set the same change exchange rates). Pass the money changer counter, look well on the left, all guides/drivers will be awaiting for their clients, please open your eyes your driver/guide will be there with your name on it. If you need any assistance upon arrival, your guide or driver will be happy to help.
Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is located around 10KM south of Negombo (Beach Station), perfect place to spend your first night especially if your flight arrival in the middle of the night
The property
Knuckles are rugged massif littered with over 33 spectacular peaks rising over 4000 - 6000 feet above sea level that encapsulate a very unique eco system. The cluster of villagers that adorns the valley has blend into a lifestyle that one must say a league of their own.
We operate 2 home stays; one in the valley bottom which is a living village with full on daily activities and the other on the hillside 3.5 miles away middle of the biosphere reserve which had been a living village up until 2007.
Sparsely populated the locals still live a very traditional life styles eking a living out of the forest. Some being rice farmers and others herdsman, the wondering lot are aces when it comes to finding numerous trails where they run daily errands of course.
Accommodation
Homestay guestroom (1-3 pax) . There’s a kitchen, the hosted couple’s bedroom – which doubles as storage space – a narrow corridor, and a small but comfortable guestroom, simply furnished with a bed, chair, candles and a trunkful of books. There are no facilities, no electricity and candles and a kerosene lamp provide the only light at night.
Cuisine
Only fresh grows vegetables from the backyard will be genuinely traditionally Sri Lankan home-cooked
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we can prepare simple meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
No facilities will be provided as you are far remote, on the hindsight can be for the laid back chill out sort; to wound up reading a book, enjoy home cooked meal and go for dip in the nearby stream. If you curry a favor with the local could even end up downing few gulps of toddy; the potent drink of the fish tail palm.
Seeding season and harvesting in particular are very interesting times in the village to visit (Nov –Jan & May – July). The community will be very happy to welcome visitors during this period. A helping hand goes a long way!
Guides
Our experienced trekking guide will bring you along during this 3 days, as well as the local farmers will be our guides & hosts.
Day 1
By 5:30am or 4pm, we will pick you up to take the direction of un-famous un-crowed Pidurangal Rock. Make sure you bring a sarong or scarf, as you’ll need to cover your shoulders when you walk through the temple ground.
Start the steady fairly ascent hike, walking next to a steep rock wall. There are some stairs and large boulders to step across until you get to a few remnants left of the Royal Cave Temple, including the remains of a few monastic structures. The main feature is the reclining Buddha statue, sheltered by a protruding rock. It’s half reconstructed in brick, though much of the original statue is still there. Pass other this giant reclining Buddha statue, the hike gets a little bit tricky. While there isn’t too much more hiking to go, there are massive boulders blocking the way up the path. The “path” essentially continues beyond the boulders and up to the top of Pidurangala Rock. It’s best to climb these with a buddy. You can help each other up and around the rocks. Arrival at the top, take the time to see some of the most astonishing 360 degrees sceneries Sri Lanka offer. After our descent, we will depart for our next destination
After collecting your luggage, you will reach the arrival hall where all money changer will appear first, (if you want to make change for the whole trip, it will be the best time - All money changer operators set the same change exchange rates). Pass the money changer counter, look well on the left, all guides/drivers will be awaiting for their clients, please open your eyes your driver/guide will be there with your name on it. If you need any assistance upon arrival, your guide or driver will be happy to help.
Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is located around 10KM south of Negombo (Beach Station), perfect place to spend your first night especially if your flight arrival in the middle of the night
The property
The Kitecamp is located in the fishing village of Kandakuliya in Kalpitiya, north west part of Sri Lanka, set up in a coconut estate with a beautiful exotical garden. It has 19 bungalows with a private bathroom and toilet, one 3-bedrooms Villa with 2 bathrooms, and 13 deluxe tents with a common bathroom.
The setting is amazing, surrounded by the lagoon and faces the Indian Ocean. In the camp, you’ll find privacy, tranquillity, beauty. All the food is homemade and international. Vegetarians to carnivore will be happy with the varied choice in our daily menu. It will be our pleasure to welcome you in our little paradise.
Accommodation
Family Bungalow (3-8 pax) 4 accommodations options for family or group of friends to live and experience kitecamp atmosphere and feeling. You will love it
Lagoon Bungalow (2-4 pax) Enjoy the beauty of the mangroves and the beach from your terrace. Lagoon view bungalows have in house or outdoor private bathroom and toilets
Garden Bungalow (2-6 pax) The tranquility of the garden view bungalows is ideal for nature lovers with a direct view on our tropical garden. Private outdoor bathroom and toilet, surrounded by plants.
Deluxe Tent (1-4 pax) The tents are set in the middle of our tropical garden. Big and comfortable with a common washroom, they come with everything needed.
Peak period bookings will incur Peak Season charges : 1 May – 31 Oct & 01 Dec- 31 Mar
Cuisine
Fresh produces all year, local fruits, vegetables and fresh seafood caught by the fishermen front the Kite camp. Our chef from Sri Lanka mixes subtly Sri Lankan cooking like Rice & Curry, Hoppers and Kottu as well as French specialties such as Roast Chicken, Filet Beef Marinade and many others international specialties. Did we forget to mention our desserts!
Buffet style will be serve during each meal, with possibility to opt for “A la carte” option dining
KSL Bar will offer you a panel of alcoholic & non alcoholic beverage and some almost “presque”perfect original espresso, many more.
Facilities & Services
Both for kiters and non-kiters… We are more than a kite camp is a great place for chilling, even if your mind is not set on riding… If you don’t kite, if you’re tired, or if you have kids, try our free bees: Stand Up Paddle, Kayak, Wakeboard, Volleyball, Bike, Slack line, pétanque, Dart game, Board games…During low season or if we don’t have wind we organize wakeboarding session…
Guides
Ensure that you will get a pre-course manual to help speed up the learning process. Upon completion, students will get their IKO Kiteboarder Cards which enabled them to rent and use kitesurfing gear anywhere in the world. Options to purchase Kiteboarder manuals are also available.
Accommodation
As most itinerary proposed, you won't have choice of properties design/service prestation/quality & level (from Guesthouse to 5* boutique/nature retreat/camp) during your stay. For this adventure trip only few nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area, apart of that please let us know your desire of property type you wish to experience and your budget and we will add this expectation to this originate itinerary.
Sinharaja Rainforest Lodge - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from guesthouse to boutique 5*)
Bush Camp Site - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Glamping 2* to 5*)
Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*)
The weather in Sri Lanka’s is rather complicated for such a small country, due to the fact that the island is affected by two separate monsoons. Though this also means that there is usually good weather somewhere on the island, at most times of the year. When thinking about the best time to visit Sri Lanka, it’s worth bearing in mind that the basic pattern for weather in Sri Lanka as described below can vary significantly from year to year, and that global warming has disrupted these already complex weather patterns.
What about the basic rainfall pattern across the island
The main southwest “yala” monsoon brings rain to the west and southwest coasts and hill country from April/May to September (wettest from April to June). The less severe northeast “maha” monsoon hits the east coast from November to March (wettest from November to December); there’s also a inter-monsoonal period of unsettled weather preceding the Maha monsoon in October and November during which heavy rainfall and thunderstorms can occur anywhere across the island. In practical terms, this means that the best time to visit Sri Lanka if you’re heading to the west and south coasts and hill country is from December to March, while the best weather on the east coast is from April/May to September, without forgotten the northern part is from January from October.
What kind of the temperature & humidity you could experience during your stay?
The country’s position close to the Equator means that at least one aspect of the weather in Sri Lanka, the temperature, remains fairly constant year-round. Coastal and lowland areas enjoy average daytime temperatures of around 26–30°C (often climbing up well into the 35°Cs during the hottest part of the day). Temperatures decrease with altitude, reducing to a temperate and a pleasantly mild 14–22°C in Hill Country and the highest parts of the island – nights in the hills can be quite chilly, with temperatures sometimes falling close to freezing. Humidity is high everywhere, rising to a sweltering 90% at times in the southwest, and averaging 60 to 80% across the rest of the island. The northern part remain one of the dryest part of Sri Lanka could make you feel 45°C when it is 35°C. To say, you can currently travel Sri Lanka all year long, we will work out your itinerary following the season in keeping the whole experience exactly the way you desire
The property
Smartly designed to minimize the carbon footprint at the south part of Kalpitiya. All villas are adapting efficient insulation concepts, capturing the fresh sea breeze for inside cooling and together with the use of indigenous construction materials like coconut leaves, local wood and concrete, they considerably contribute to the green holiday concept with the implementation of a systematic waste recycling and beach cleaning scheme and thus contribute to the social and environmental sustainability. Dreamy surrounded offering almost a private lagoon at only few meter away from the restaurant and from where the infinity pool offer a superb view on the beach and lagoon
Accommodation
Round or Rectangular Villa (Single/Double/Triple), Cabana (Single/Double/Triple). Note that all of the villas are equipped with fans only (no air-conditioning policy). Temperatures by the beachside cools down a bit during the evenings with constant wind blowing
Peak period bookings will incur Peak Season charges : 11 Jan-31 Mar / 1 May – 14 Oct / 21 Dec – 10 Jan
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine as well as Western, fusion cuisine, can cater to special requests. If you are looking for vegetarian or vegan options, talk to us, and we’ll arrange everything you need.
On our own land, we organically grow our fruit, vegetable, herbs and of course coconut. So our vegetable, fruit and coconut are as fresh as you can get it. Right from the garden to your plate.
The buffet style dining experience allows guests to mingle with each other and our staff, and make new friends.
Facilities & Services
Surrounded by long sandbanks, tropical palm trees, lush mangroves and not one but two flat-water lagoons, you are far away from commuter noises. Instead, you are woken up every morning by the sound of the beautiful Indian Ocean and greeted by a herd of donkeys who casually wander around our resort premises.
Restaurant (set time for meals, all day for snacks order), Upperdeck Lounge Bar (all day), Wi-Fi in main area, Watersport & Kitesurf School using equipment from FAITH KITEBOARDING Brand (Possibility to storage your own Kitesurfing Equipment. Paddle board, laundry, electricity 24 hours and an Infinity pool
Guides
All of our Instructors are IKO-qualified and up-to-date certified. That means you'll know you're getting world-renowned standards of instruction at our Kite School in Sri Lanka with our diverse international instructors, we can offer courses in English, Swiss-German, German and French.
Courses will be arrange in 1:1 to 1:4 maximum
Day 1
Picked up from your hotel in Colombo by 8.15am (morning walk) or 3.45pm (evening walk) to live in this 2hrs experience fluidly combines some of the most interesting, yet unknown, sides of Colombo. The capital city is a densely packed metropolis with influences, both, local and colonial. The walk focuses on the economic, colonial, cultural and religious history of Colombo, with a particular emphasis on the famed area of Slave Island.
This alternate, walk-centered experience commences at the Inn On The Green, a pub reminiscent of what one might come across in the UK where the food and drink is stellar and the ambience is influenced by the aspirations of modern-day Sri Lankans, then continue the other side sits the Galle Face Green, a lush, seafront promenade and urban park frequented by locals leads us to the Galle Face Court. You will encounter a network of intricate ferry lanes and canals criss-crossed this area not too long ago where tributaries of the Beira Lake snaked across Slave Island, and the ferry was the main mode of transport. The Slave Island Railway Station, which it still functions normally but, today, it is restricted to the passage of commuters to and from Colombo. Slave Island was, once, the economic center of all-Colombo, as you navigate through the old ferry lanes, you will inch closer and closer to the very heart of Slave Island. All these elements are brought into view within the course of a riveting, two hour-long walk which will be add with numerous tales spell by your guide. Transfer return back to your hotel around 10.30am
Day 1 At 6.30 am guests board Pearl from Dutch Bay and set sail towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast and the moment whales are spotted you will be invited to the bow or upper deck for the best view. After the whale watching we return to shore and anchor for few hours in the Back bay near ThiruKoneswaram Temple. Guests can swim and snorkel until the snack is served. At 1.30 pm guests disembark at Dutch Bay to depart to your next destination.
This itinerary in this remote location can change depending on the meteorological conditions, the Naval advisories and the captain’s assessment
Accommodation
As most itinerary proposed, you won't have choice of properties design/service prestation/quality & level (from Guesthouse to 5* boutique/nature retreat/camp) during your stay. For this adventure trip only few nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area, apart of that please let us know your desire of property type you wish to experience and your budget and we will add this expectation to this originate itinerary
Colombo City Center - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from guesthouse to boutique 5*)
Camp by the River 2*
- Situated on a hill overlooking the Kelani River, our camp combines the best aspects of outdoor camping and travel for those who need a certain degree of comfort. Surrounded by mountains and the clear, rushing Kelani below, our site is truly stunning. It is rustic and natural, perfect for those looking for a refined wooden hut camping trip. Cuisine is rustic with traditional Sri Lankan delicacies. Wi-Fi and mobile phone signal available
Riverfront Cabin (1-3 pax)
has a private, secured entrance. There is no need to bring towels as you will be provided with one during your stay. All accommodation has power points to charge electrical items such as laptops, phones and cameras. We do not have en suite bathroom facilities, but our bathroom block is separated into male and female facilities. Our showers are hot water showers.
Mountain Teafield Area - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from guesthouse to Nature Retreat 5*)
Remote Mountain Lodge 2*
- Modern with touch of rustic lodge offering comfortable bedding & European washroom permitting to appreciate “Million Dollars” views given from just below the World End, don’t forget to bring some warm clothing, night are pretty chill.
A common area with 2 sofas and few tables are set for your meals and coffee time
There are no facilities (apart of a baby foot:), as remote it is electricity can be off for sometime, if it is the case during your stay they will give you portable light for you to be able to use in your room to read. Wi-Fi onsite and NO mobile phone signal
Standard Double / Twin Room (1-3 pax)
Only 6 simply furnished bedrooms available (4 bedrooms with view) with private washroom with hot water & toilet. Beds are very comfy with good winter cover. If you feel cold in the room, heater can be request.
Bush Camp Site - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Glamping 3* to 5*)
Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*)
Guide
- Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
- River Guides at the Kelani River activities
Rafting - All raft trips meet international safety standards, with all raft guides trained in CPR, (Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation), first aid and river rescue. Participants will wear life jackets and helmets for safety and will be guided by an expert team leader
Canyoning - Our Sri Lankan guide’s are certified under the UK canyoning certification and have the right equipment and expertise to safety explore these liquid gems
- Yala national Park Safari(s) will be accompany with experience Naturalist Guide
The property
If you want to experience the jungle in style, look no further than the Gal Oya Lodge who is an unique ecolodge spread across 20 acres of private forest, bringing you closer to nature by having our ten bungalows fully designed to feel a part of the landscape, seamlessly blending with the surrounding terrain.. Take your time enjoying this natural paradise. Our philosophy lies at the heart of the design – to bring you closer to nature and to protect the local environment. The concept lives in every detail, from the undisturbed lush forest of our mountain site to the natural materials – such as cajan, wood and illuk – used to create our bungalows. And, of course, we use appropriate technology and recycling to preserve precious natural resources such as water and energy.
Accommodation
Bungalow (1-3pax)) Each bungalow is nestled in the forest, specifically sited to minimize its impact on the land, and to frame the best possible views. We want you to enjoy a sense of space and comfort. Each bungalow is a generous 800 sq. ft. consisting of a private living room and bedroom with a built-in king sized bed. An adjoining airy bathroom, double sinks, and both indoor and outdoor showers complete the experience.
To really draw nature into the space, we had to reimagine the traditional ideas of interior and exterior found in other luxury boutique hotels in Sri Lanka. Both bungalow bedrooms feature spectacular floor to ceiling glass windows and doors that open onto a private veranda. Whether you’re indoors relaxing or outside enjoying the scenery, nature is right there with you.
To provide for families or those looking for a little more indulgence, we have created a secluded two-bedroom villa perched at the highest point of the Gal Oya Lodge site. Peaceful, remote and with breath-taking views, it is the perfect spot for those in search of a luxury escape.
Cuisine
Locally source delicacies are special highlight of Lodge life. Lovingly prepared, the days’ menu will include a choice of Sri Lankan and Western items, featuring home grown herbs and vegetables, and produce from neighbouring village farmers. Innovative, fresh and healthy, meals are served in the dining room. Be sure to try our delicious national favourites such as curries, sambol and roti. Join our Lodge chef in the kitchen for Sri Lankan cooking courses.
Facilities & Services
Our concept follows environmentally sound practices including recycling, energy conservation, growing our own produce and using sustainable materials whenever we can. We have recently installed a Wildlife training and research facility to work with local conservation organisations and to help protect wildlife.
Gal Oya Lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool, seamlessly integrated into the scenic landscape. And the spacious bungalows have touches of luxury to make you feel at home. Our friendly locally-recruited staff are keen to share with you the stories and hospitality of the region. And the quality of our naturalist guides make us proud, sure to contribute to your visit by vividly bring alive the secrets of the natural world.
Guides
Excellent and knowledgeable in-house nature guides in small groups (1:8 maximum, but usually no more than 1:6). Private guide and activities available upon requests at additional charge
The property
Home stay opens doors to experience day to day lives of the locals in the comfort of their own homes. Most visitors break time between visiting sites of natural importance to helping children at school or involving with women’s group activities while on holiday.
The north of SL is predominantly headed by single women or parent; later being the collateral damage of war; thus such income generated form home stays or tours guided by locals is a huge plus to their struggling economy.
Accommodation
Basic but comfortable family home, equipped with toilet and water bucket shower. Cold shower. Sleeping is in communal room or private room (depend of availability) with mattresses on the floor with full bedding. Abode hibernation is designed to accommodate either couple or family and equipped with self containing kitchenette, living area and a sleeping area that can be converted to lounge. The pavilion style structure mirrors people of north, where lose furniture is minimal but richly replaced by rugs, mats, bolster pillows and low raised benches.
Cuisine
You cannot find more authentic & delicious local food - vegetarians and special diets catered for.
Facilities & Services
Total immersion into a Tamil village & family accommodation.
Guides
You will be accompanied by your host throughout the entire duration of your visit, supported by other members of the community who partake in the tourism project/venture.
Accommodation
As most itinerary proposed, you won't have choice of properties design/service prestation/quality & level (from Guesthouse to 5* boutique/nature retreat/camp) during your stay. For this adventure trip only few nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area, apart of that please let us know your desire of property type you wish to experience and your budget and we will add this expectation to this originate itinerary.
Farmstay in Homestay - Basic Facility - There’s a kitchen, the hosted couple’s bedroom – which doubles as storage space – a narrow corridor, and a small but comfortable guestroom, simply furnished with a bed, chair, candles and a trunkful of books. There are no facilities, no electricity and candles and a kerosene lamp provide the only light at night. Sleep in share bedroom and common area, toilet and bucket shower to share with the family. NO Wi-Fi and mobile phone signal available.
Shelter Mountain Lodge - Back to basic, back to nature - In the middle of Knuckles Range Forest Reserve, this shelter is set for the farmer to stay over when they take care of their cows, planting or collecting their farm products. Surrounded by mountain cloud forest, No facility available on site (no electricity, no running water), purely a human & authentic cultural experience back to the source, Experience a camping type under a roof of a shelter. Water will be boil and the food will be cooked the most remote way with wood fire. Sleeping in common area on mattress set on the floor (maximum 8 person per night), toilet and bucket shower to share with the family. NO Wi-Fi onsite and NO mobile phone signal.
Government Resthouse (1-3pax) Each basic room offer one queen or 2 single beds with attached simple bathroom with only cold water.
Maduru Oya NP Camp Site (1-4pax) Each tent with yoga mat will be bring along in one of the 4x4 jeep. Toilet will be taken in the wilderness, (No shower place) – pure authentic camping experience.
Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*).
Tree House to Bush Lodge Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Guesthouse 1* to Private Bush Villa 5*)
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am or 1.30pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you at the beach. You will experience a “mise a l’eau” with some sensation and take the direction of Pigeon Island Marine Park within a boat ride of around 20 minutes. Arrival at site, jump into the stunning blue sea and snorkel for a maximum 3hrs, open your eyes as loads of hard corals, amazing Indian Ocean underwater biodiversity. Ssometime turtles, mostly also Black Tip Reef Sharks in the shallow water can be observe. Get back on your boat and depart to your the dive center from where you will leave a new destination.
Day 1 (-)
By 6 am or 3pm we will pick you up at your property to embark into a 3-4hrs Sunrise or Sunset journey within Udalawale National Park recognize for its number of elephants hearses living in the permises.From the time you will be introduce inside this amazing open grassland savannah, loads of birds will be able to spot especially close to the reservoir without forgotten the possibility to spot crocodile too. During your ide, you will encounter individual as well as hearses of elephants from baby to old mammal which can be spot easily. By 10am or 6pm, you will head off the Park exit and will reach your property in Udalawale.
10HR RIDE INTO WILPATTU
Day 1 (L)
Get at 6 am at the Wilpattu NP south west entrance, where you will transfer vehicule to change with a 4x4 jeep, you will then enter into one of the most amazing National Park in Sri Lanka, the whole day about 12hrs you will ride the dust roads passing by reservoirs and magical forests, astonishing sceneries in chess to encouter multiple wildlife as Chacal, Fox, Elephant, horde of Wild Buffalos, Wildboar, Monkeys, huge varieties of birds as well as if luck is with us Leopard and Sloth Bear. Enjoy an astonishing sunset before heading back to the main gate of the National park where your transport will be awaiting for you to bring you to your next destination.
OR
HALF DAY RIDE INTO WILPATTU
Day 1 (-)
By 6 am or 3pm at the Wilpattu NP south west entrance, you will transfer vehicule to change by a 4x4 jeep, off for a 3hrs Sunset 4x4 game drive within Wilpattu NP where during the dusty ride, you could encounter Sri Lankan Elephant, Sri Lankan elephant, fox, chacal, wildboar, various species of deers, multiples birds as well as being lucky to encounter the wildly the Leopard. By 10am or 6pm, you will head off the Park exit.
Day 1
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded by 9am or 2pm, taking the direction of a celebrated mask carving & painting artist gallery located in Galle Fort. During the 1hr (this may vary according to client) you will get an insight into the traditional methods of mask carving that has existed for decades. Will be followed by1hr (this may vary according to client) of learning the ways of painting traditional Sri Lankan mask with the help of the artist. You will learn much about theses masks that are ingrained in Sri Lankan culture and the painting methods used which have been passed down from Generation. After this session, we get back on the road to your property in Galle and its surrounded.
Day 1
By 6:30am / 4pm, you will heading to the world famous and referred as “the eight wonder of the world”and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage. Rising 200meter above the surrounding jungle with a flat plateau on top, it formed from the magma of an extinct volcano over 200 billion years ago, Sigiriya rock is one of the world best examples of ancient urban planning built up over 1500 years ago offering over 1200 steps to the top. The earlier you start the climbing the better to avoid large crowed as well as the heat can become intense upon the sun rise. Upon the climb you will encounter multiple opportunity to stop featuring gorgeous views. You will pass by the Mirror Wall (now Stained orange) used to be a highly polished white wall wrapping around the edge of the rock. Reaching the northern side of the rock where the main entrance to the palace , you will not miss the huge Lion Paws, then continue the climb until the top to fell completely accomplished. After our descent, we will depart for our next destination or to your property
Day 1
By 8am or 2pm, meet up with your local bike rider, from where we will get the historical theory in visiting the museum before riding 2-3hrs wandering between the ruins of palaces, temples amongst enormous statues and idols of Buddha cut into rock, crossing by astonishing forest keeping the feeling of the past. Polonnaruwa was the capital from the 10th to the 13th century, until the Sinhalese kings abandoned it in favour of Yapahuwa, and as we ride freely through two centuries of ruins we imagined what the city might’ve once been like. Such an extraordinary step back into Sri Lanka wonderness royalty memories. After our bike ride, we will depart for our next destination
The property
Located in a far remote Private Tea Estate in the heart of Hill Country about 40KM south of Kandy, this 100 years old bungalow daily used by the manager of the tea estate when they come and inspect the well functioning operation, will allowed us to live in this unique feel to be part of tea estate. This is not an hotel and this unique plantation working estate bungalow will offer, more an authentic experience only few can share.
Accommodation
Double Room (1-3 pax) Only 3 to 4 rooms sharing washroom without AC or fan, you won’t need it as the temperature will drop as soon as the sun down
One extra mattress can be add in the room.
Cuisine
Simple home-cooking Sri Lankan dishes well garnished breakfast, lunch, dinner & tea break at the different tea estate bungalow and remote village kiosque. All made with locally sources ingredients and freshly prepared
Can be cater for vegetarian, also being able to request non spicy. Some specific dietary won’t be able to cater, please inform us in advance.
Facilities & Services
You will be able to share main living room to ended your day trek . Walk around the garden offering astonishing view on the ridge of the mountain as well as the tea estate. Walk around the local settlement.
Guides
Our experienced trekking guide will bring you along during this 2 days, as well as a tracker on day 2 as the path could disappear due to jungle grows.
The property
This campsite will be only accessible by one road end of dusty road accessible via 4x4 jeep or by boat if the water level of the lake is high enough. This campsite will offer 2 persons quickhiker ultralight tent with self-inflating mattress. No toilet and shower will be established at this camp. We will define you the location where you will be able to do your needs and toiletry. During this night at your camp, you will be absolutely cut away from the normal way of life as no signal will cover the area, we will carry satellite phone in case of emergency. Before we leave this campside, we will entirely clean up our passage to let back the wild where it supposed to be with the minimum human impact.
Accommodation
Gal Oya NP Camp Side (1-2pax) Each 2 person quickhiker ultralight tent with self-inflating mattress will be bring along in one of the 4x4 jeep. Toilet will be taken in the wilderness, (No shower place) – pure authentic camping experience.
Cuisine
Simple and very delightful local delicacies cook on the stove fire at the camp site. Where you will be enjoy to appreciate each meal as well we won’t forget some good coffee & tea to be given as much as possible all in being in unique less-people getaway
Guides
Local acknowledges guides, National Park Rangers & Native Veddah Guides in maximum small groups (1:8 maximum, but usually no more than 1:6).
Only depart every Monday, Wednesday, Friday
The property
Picturesque & remote in the bushes location that makes the perfect base for your Safaris camping experience in the Wilpattu National Park which has been specially chosen for its natural beauty and conveniently shaded areas of forest, which keep the temperature inside the tents cool and provide you with much needed respite from the sun. Many different wildlife species come to visit the camp and you can expect to wake up to the sound of tropical birdsong in the mornings.
Accommodation
Mobile Tent (1-2 pax) Featuring either a king size or 2 twin beds, these insect/waterproof South African mobile tents include a living area with camp chairs, roll down flaps for privacy, and solar powered lighting. The private bathroom area, which has an open-air hot/cold water shower, changing area and washbasin is located just outside the tent. A flushable sit-down toilet is attached to the living area of the tent
Cuisine
Besides serving traditional Sri Lankan cuisine using seasonal vegetables and fruit that they buy from local farmers, Enjoying evening drinks and meals around a campfire under a ceiling of sparkling stars is a highlight of any stay. All meals are usually a communal experience, however honeymooners can enjoy private dining on request. Our chefs can adapt our menus and we can cater to all dietary requirements.
Facilities & Services
Numerous activities as cooking class, birdwatching, guided walks, star gazing, animal identification) will make you appreciate more Mother Nature and this perfect surrounded.
We can customised family-orientated packages and offer discounted rates for younger children to make travelling with the kids that little bit easier. In between game drives, younger members of the family can get involved in our hosted kids’ activities whilst the parents take some time out to relax and unwind.
Guides
Naturalist Guides & Experience 4x4 driver come from the local village with a few members from slightly further afield
Get practical in preselecting your clothes at least one week before you leave for you to get a better idea of what you absolutely need or even forget.
Beware of overload packing of things you didn’t wear for ages or even need during your time here. Be objective on what exactly you will need and be comfortable to wear and carry with you during your trip
Due to the extreme difference of temperature & climate you could encounter during your adventure, we highly recommend bringing synthetic & fast drying material clothes (if rain, cotton fabric won’t dry so quickly).
The property
Mere aside Yala National Park Katagamuwa entrance (Northern) to Block I of the Yala National Park, which is a more secluded, less used area of the otherwise crowded block, located not ride faraway from the least explore Block III and V, areas which are almost completely ignored because of their distance from most camps and resorts, but thrive with animal and plant life nonetheless.
The camp is establish aside a stunning reservoir where multiple birds can be spotted, and surrounded by hill and flat lands covered by untouched scrub forest.
From Sunrise to night time, nature live around you and wonder can happen anytime in front of you
Designed by Wildlife Enthusiasts, our eco-friendly Safari Camp Ceylon Wild Safaris consists of six individual tents with salt-water chlorinator plunge pools - the first of its kind in Yala National Park.
The camp which would be your home away from home runs completely on solar power and there is zero tolerance for plastics, has its own sewage treatment plant and the stay also promotes a reforestation initiative where the guests are invited to plant trees during their stay.
Our extremely comfortable Luxurious Tents
have a king-sized bed with air-conditioners,
take a bath in an alfresco shower with full functioning bathroom facilities "feeling like home". Established on an 18 acre plot of wilderness land but in order to reduce our footprint we have isolated our camp and its six tents utilization to less than 2 acres. This allows us to continue our reforestation project on land which was previously used for farming and "chena" cultivation. our camp has the following amenities to make your stay with us a memorable one.
Your days activities will be orchestrate by morning & evening 4x4 safari drives, walking by yourself across the property, set your gear by the reservoir and spot multiples birds as well as stunning sunrise & sunset or even grab a book and enchance yourself with the rythmn of the jungle.
Accommodation
All Luxury Eco Friendly Tents build up with details and touch, spacious and extremely comfortable with A/C, an open-air bathroom and small plunge pool, private wooden deck area, king size bed (twin can be arranged), utility wardrobe, luggage & towel racks, bathrobes, towels and bath amenities, charging points for phones and cameras, en-suite flush-able toilet, and twin sink, en-suite shower with hot and cold water (Baby cots available on request)
Ceylon Wild Safari camp has a maximum capacity of 12 guests.
Cuisine
Alfresco living and eating experience with stunning Sri Lankan delicacies from Breakfast to Dinner, get a-live barbeque under the stars for dinner will truly emerge a magical experience where a never ending conversation about the numerous constellations and planets gazing down at us from the clear night sky. An open bar of drinks is available for the enthusiasts and fresh fruits and water are in plenty to keep you company and hydrated while you are in the jungle or at the camp.
While on safari we deserve some snack nad as soon as you get back to the camp at the end of the day, an open bar of drinks is available for the enthusiasts and fresh fruits and water are in plenty to keep you company and hydrated while you are in the jungle or at the camp.
Picnic lunch can be set for those going for the full day safari, or spending the day exploring the historical sites of the South, Dinner by the reservoir or in the bush can be arrange following availability and weather forecast.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we will always do our best to prepare meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies
Facilities & Services
Ceylon Wild Safaris is ideally situated to explore the multiple sectors (referred to locally as ‘blocks’) of Yala National Park, and we run Private or Join In Safari(s) of our safaris in Block 1 and 5.
For the morning round, we recommend you leave the camp by 5.30 am to be at the Park gate as it opens. The best time for departing for the evening round is around 3.00 pm. If you prefer to spend the whole day at the park, take a picnic lunch and break journey by the Menik Ganga or get back to the camp to enjoy your meal and walk around with your camera to photosnap birds or any mammal could be passing across.
We are aware that those who hear the call of the jungle have their own personal relationship with it, just as we do. And how can we not make special arrangements for those of you traveling with your cameras when each of us keeps ours so close at hand.
We invite you to climb into a 1982 Land Cruiser, modified with removable seats and a forward folding windscreen, equipped with beanbags, clamps, tripods and monopods, complete with those of us who take photography seriously on board to make sure you have the right light and positioning.
‘Birding Walk’ Join our passionate birding guides not only on game drive but also on a stroll in the vicinity of the camp to see what exciting tropical birds you can find. The birds of Sri Lanka are splashed in beautiful colours that only nature can create, and there is no better way to appreciate them than to learn about them from our experienced birding team.
Short Courses with our Naturalist Our guides boast a lifetime of involvement with nature, each of them having started their journey along this path at a very young age. They’ve also had the honor and privilege of sharing their knowledge at Sri Lanka’s very first Game Rangers Training Program. We’ve now made this knowledge accessible to our guests as well. Should you require a short course on the complexities of nature through the eyes of any one of our rangers, all you need do is ask. "the art of tracking", "trees & wildflowering", "Basic Birding", "Bio-diversity"
Experience Sunrise & Sunset Reservoir Spot, can be experience just a walk away from your tent, open your mind to live in such breathtaking moment.
We also enjoy taking our guests to explore sites of historic and culturalsignificance in the vicinity of our camp (archaeological sites from the Ruhunu civilization located within Yala National Park). Kataragama is one of the most sacred and symbolic places of worship for all religions, but especially for Buddhists, Hindus and indigenous communities. Sithulpawwa (which is believed to translate broadly to “Hill of the Quiet Mind”) is an ancient jungle monastery that dates back to the 2nd century B.C. Both locations attract many devotees, especially during times of religious festivities.
For those interested in history and culture, there is much more to explore in this part of the island as the Civilization of Ruhana goes beyond two thousand years but is eclipsed by the central Anuradhapura Kingdom. Ruhuna’s ruins are scattered everywhere, along the coast and inland. Within easy access are the well-known sites of Kirinda (approx. 15 min. drive), Sithulpahuwa (45 min. drive), Tissamaharamaya (20 min. drive) and Kataragama (approx. 45 min. drive) as well as the lesser visited ones of Yatala (approx. 30 min. drive), and Thelulla Dagabas (approx. 30 min. drive).
Guide
Our Naturalist Guides comprised of passionate, ethical and professional game rangers aim to merge sustainable and experiential wildlife tourism with active and on-ongoing conservation efforts.
All 4x4 drivers are highly trained on vehicle self-recovery, driving skills, vehicle maintenance and repairs.
Have you always wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater? If you want to try scuba diving, but aren’t quite ready to take the plunge into a certification course, Discover Scuba Diving is for you. Quick and easy introduction to what it takes to explore the underwater world.
You can choose from two different options. The DSD Program to 6 Meters is guided by a Divemaster and you only receive basic information about diving. The DSD Program to 12 Meters Depth will teach by an instructor and you will get further information about diving and develop certain skills underwater. There is also the possibility to do a second dive after your first DSD-Experience.
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (1.15pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you at the beach. You will get through the learning the basic safety guidelines and skills needed to dive under the direct supervision of a PADI Professional (Instructor or Dive Master). If you make an open water dive, you’ll practice a few more skills in shallow water to prepare for your adventure. You will also got through most of equipment explanation, how to use it underwater as well as what is all about the DSD. You will then experience a “mise a l’eau” of your boat with some sensation passing by the wave walls. Arrival at the dive site, go over the scuba equipment you used to dive and how easy it is to move around underwater with your gear. Find out what it’s like to breathe underwater. Learn key skills that you’ll use during every scuba dive, and finally have fun swimming around and exploring for your one first dive
Course Content!
To breathe underwater for the first time - what a feeling! This is simply incomparable! You have to get used to it at first. After all, people are not made for it normally. After a few minutes of quiet breathing under water, most participants realize how easy diving can be. To stay calm and to follow the instructions of your PADI Instructor or Dive Master are the first prerequisites to complete the first diving exercises of your life. If that works after a few minutes, most of the participants are really enthusiastic and never forget that first impression under water.
The property
Situated on a hill overlooking the Kelani River, our camp combines the best aspects of outdoor camping and travel for those who need a certain degree of comfort. Surrounded by mountains and the clear, rushing Kelani below, our site is truly stunning. It is rustic and natural, perfect for those looking for a refined camping holiday.
All our riverfront tents and cabins are covered by thatched roofs, ensuring a dry stay at all times. Your comfortable tents and cabins feature twin beds (which can be converted into double beds), quality linen, bedside tables and lamps, as well as a private terrace with spectacular views overlooking the Kelani. All our cabins also have mosquito nets. Our cabins are ideal for families and will sleep a families of between three to five. In the evenings guests gravitate to our Long House with its sound system, informal bar and comfortable cushioned seating area. The Long House is fully wi-fi’d so you can share your adventures with friends anywhere in the world. Enjoy delicious food, a cold beer and great company with new found friends in a completely chilled environment.
We have a deck overlooking the river as well as a place for a campfire, where you can unwind by roasting marshmallows.
Accommodation
Tent (1-2 pax) have proper wooden frame beds with mattresses, lights both inside and outside. Each tent has a thatched roof over it and a terrace from which you can view the river and the surrounding mountains. Our tents zip completely secure so you can have total privacy, and our wood cabins, whilst can open on three sides during the day, have blinds which come down and offer complete privacy.
Cabin (1-3 pax) has a private, secured entrance. There is no need to bring towels as you will be provided with one during your stay. All accommodation has power points to charge electrical items such as laptops, phones and cameras. We do not have en suite bathroom facilities, but our bathroom block is separated into male and female facilities. Our showers are hot water showers.
Dorm (1-8 pax) has a establish 8 mattress on wooden stand, each individually covered by a mosquito net. Toilet and shower will be share with over and are located in the next house of the dorm.
Cuisine
Our chef will cooks up some delicious selection of Sri Lankan rice and curries, often hailed as the best guests have tried while in Sri Lanka, as well as some more western dishes for those who want a break from curry and rice.
Can be cater for vegetarian, also being able to request non spicy. Some specific dietary won’t be able to cater, please inform us in advance.
Facilities & Services
You will mostly spend your time to chill, mingle or even having your meals at the Long House which features a bar, a “chill out” area for rest after a hard day of fun. The Long House is fully wifi connected and is free of charge. There are a few power points, but as a rule we ask that you charge any electronics in your tents. Great sound system is stand by so you can attach your iPod so you can listen to your music, but please be considerate to other guests we may have at camp when choosing music! Free filtered water is available in the Long House throughout your stay.
BE AWARE: The water is safe for brushing teeth but do not drink the water, as it is not treated. A refreshing alternative to a shower is a river bath, and where possible please bring biodegradable products to help us protect our shared environment. We keep all of our watersports equipment on site so that we can maintain our equipment properly. As well as kayaks and rafts, we have all our safety equipment on site, including life jackets, paddling jackets and helmets on hand for all ages and sizes.
Guides
English Speaking Experienced guides trained in CPR & Artificial Respiration, International Standard Safety Equipment, Comprehensive First Aid Kits, Safety lecture by guides before canyoning & rafting.
The property
Clusters of uniquely designed huts spread throughout a large expanse of forest land. All huts are constructed with natural materials, using ancient techniques with a distinctly modern twist.
Each structure is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Whilst all the individual layouts differ, the facilities are essentially the same.
All huts have outdoor showers, indoor bathrooms, dining & lounge areas and relaxation spaces adorned with hammocks and mats – all designed in a style that befits the overall aesthetic and ‘back-to-nature’ theme.
There is no mains electricity in the guest areas. Lighting at night is provided by plentiful candles and lanterns as well as subtle, solar powered LED lighting. The local village was connected to the national grid in 2012 and we now have power in the office for charging phones, cameras, ipads or whatever other gadgets you bring.
Staying at The Mudhouse is a little like stepping back in time to your own village in the jungle and to a more simple way of life, where things move at your pace.
Accommodation
The Original Mudhouse (2-4 pax) Having evolved and changed over the years, The Original Mudhouse is a charming spot for couples or families, featuring a cluster of huts that combine to create a magical and relaxing space. Suitable for couples, small families.
Family & Honeymoon Huts (2-4 pax) The Family Hut features two double beds and an open-plan lounge. The seductive Honeymoon Hut offers a double bed in a hexagonal layout. These huts come together as a private zone.
The Palu Hut (2-6 pax) Our largest hut with six beds, two outdoor showers, two bathrooms and a lounge area. The unique ‘V’ shaped design and two-tier roofing structure add to its distinctive and alluring look. Suitable for couples, families or small groups and the set-up is tailored to the size and requirements of the people staying there.
Maha Gedera (2-5 pax) Designed in a square shape with an open, central courtyard and large bathroom. Five beds are spread around the interior, interspersed by a lounge, hammocks and a special dining area. Suitable for for couples, families and small groups and, despite its size, has a very intimate atmosphere inside.
All Huts have outdoor shower is one of our most wild, whilst the western toilet is in an enclosed hut with great jungle views. Each Huts are equipped with binoculars, cool boxes, mosquito nets, towels, blankets, bird books and bikes for exploring the property.
Cuisine
Pure Sri Lankan meals are prepared the traditional way, using clay pots and firewood. Rice and curry is the staple of the country and we offer a huge variety of dishes at any given time. There is no menu as such – meals are prepared according to what is in season and most fresh. We don’t tend to serve much meat as we find it hard to source quality produce locally. Fish, however, is a different story. Being surrounded by lakes and only 30 km from the coast, there is a range of sea and fresh water fish available throughout the year.
Vegetarians will be happy here and a wide selection of grains, pulses, seeds, vegetables and fruits are prepared daily – many in ways you may not have come across previously.
Much of the produce is sourced from our own organic farm, with other ingredients purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town. All meals are included in the price. If you have any special requests we will always try to accommodate them. You can also learn how to cook any of your favourite dishes in our complimentary cooking classes.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we will always do our best to prepare meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
Plenty of activities as well as a yoga sala for those who would like to do yoga by themselves as there isn't an instructor. Meals are served either in the restaurant or in-room, or a table can be set up in the location of your choice - ideal for couples seeking a romantic option.…
You can choose from swimming, fishing, kayaking or boating on the lake, birdwatching (although this is best arranged the night before, as it involves an early start), walking to the local Paramankanda Rock Temple or exploring a local village by bicycle
The Mudhouse doesn't have wifi apart of the office location where it is the only place in the whole property where there is electricity (possibility to recharge your phone, laptop, camera battery) , although guests can use the hotel's computer which is connected to the internet if they really need too
Guide
Naturalist Guides & Experience 4x4 driver (Wilpattu NP) come from the local village with a few members from slightly further afield.
The Mudhouse is committed to the principles of responsible, community-based tourism. The project aims to create as much local employment and benefit as possible and, through retaining largely traditional processes, remains deliberately labour intensive.
● Travellers who have a history of contact with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID- 19 within the past 14 days and persons who have fever or respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, shortness of breath within the past 14 days are advised not to travel to Maldives.
● Regular official updates on travel to the Maldives re provided on the websites of the Ministry of Tourism (https://www.tourism.gov.mv/) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.foreign.gov.mv/) of the Maldives
● A confirmed booking in a tourist establishment registered with the Ministry of Tourism, prior to travelling is mandatory.
● Tourist resorts, liveaboard vessels and hotels located on uninhabited islands are open for bookings starting from July 15 th , 2020.
● Guest houses and hotels located on inhabited islands will open for bookings starting from 1 st August, 2020.
● However, guest houses and hotels located on inhabited islands will be allowed to accommodate transiting passengers waiting for domestic transfers under special permits. Transit arrangements can be made through the primary facility where the stay is booked. ● Tourists are advised to directly check offers and operational status with the preferred tourist establishments on their websites and mobile applications.
● Tourists who are visiting Maldives during phase 1 of opening shall book their entire stay in one registered establishment. Stays at multiple resorts and hotels are not permitted during this period. However, exemptions will be made for transit arrangements.
Accommodation
As most itinerary proposed, you won't have choice of properties design/service prestation/quality & level (from Guesthouse to 5* boutique/nature retreat/camp) during your stay. For this adventure trip only few nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area, apart of that please let us know your desire of property type you wish to experience and your budget and we will add this expectation to this originate itinerary
The Mudhouse / 4*Rustic Seclusive -
Spread throughout a large expanse of forest on the outskirts of a small village in Sri Lanka lies The Mudhouse – a private and seductive retreat, far away from the beaten track.Flanked by lakes and blessed with abundant birdlife, wildlife and natural beauty, The Mudhouse offers a range of rustic accommodation in private and individually designed huts.Run with environmental sustainability as its core focus, The Mudhouse aims to be a positive force for the people and nature with whom we co-exist.Fun and friendly, this laid-back lodge offers a unique chance to experience rural Sri Lankan life in all its colourful splendour.
Clusters of uniquely designed huts spread throughout a large expanse of forest land. All huts are constructed with natural materials, using ancient techniques with a distinctly modern twist.Each structure is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Whilst all the individual layouts differ, the facilities are essentially the same.All huts have outdoor showers, indoor bathrooms, dining & lounge areas and relaxation spaces adorned with hammocks and mats – all designed in a style that benefits the overall aesthetic and ‘back-to-nature’ theme.There is no mains electricity in the guest areas. Lighting at night is provided by plentiful candles and lanterns as well as subtle, solar powered LED lighting. The local village was connected to the national grid in 2012 and we now have power in the office for charging phones, cameras, ipads or whatever other gadgets you bring.Staying at The Mudhouse is a little like stepping back in time to your own village in the jungle and to a more simple way of life, where things move at your pace.
Much of the produce is sourced from our own organic farm, with other ingredients purchased locally from farmers or from the market in town. Traditional Sri Lankan meals are prepared the traditional way, using clay pots and firewood. Rice and curry is the staple of the country and we offer a huge variety of dishes at any given time.There is no menu as such – meals are prepared according to what is in season and most fresh. We don’t tend to serve much meat as we find it hard to source quality produce locally. Fish, however, is a different story. Being surrounded by lakes and only 30 km from the coast, there is a range of sea and fresh water fish available throughout the year.Vegetarians will be happy here and a wide selection of grains, pulses, seeds, vegetables and fruits are prepared daily – many in ways you may not have come across previously.
The Sanctuary at Tissawewa / Historical Feel 2* -
Located in the heart of the historical area of the ancient city of Anuradhapura, is one of Sri Lanka's landmark colonial buildings. Set on 14 acres of lush landscaped gardens, this masterpiece of Raj architecture, one of the islands first purpose built hotels, has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. The hotel has all the charm of eastern style, with open verandah and deep eaves where at night flying foxes peevish whine is heard in the trees.
22 high and wooden ceilinged rooms that open out on to our sprawling piece of cultivated wilderness where you can lie in a four poster bed and feel transported to a different era of gracious living. Each room offer private hot/cold shower, A/C, Air drier, 19" flat screen TV with satellite international channels, laundry service & Wifi
The restaurant provide very simple and limited Sri Lankan dishes. No other facilities provided onsite.
Wildgrass Nature Resort / 5*Minimalistic Comtemporary -
Set close to the UNESCO world heritage sites of Sigiriya Lion Rock. Comprising just 8 villas, Wild Grass is set amidst 25 acres of unfenced forestland that is frequently visited by rabbits, deer, wild boar, monkeys and over 40 species of birds as well as the occasional wild elephant.It is the ideal location for nature lovers, whether families with children, couples or honeymooners, who wish to enjoy their holiday disturbed only by the sounds of nature, while enjoying the ancient history and marvels of the Cultural Triangle, The unique feature of Wild Grass remains its exceptional natural beauty; our villas promote the sense of being at home amidst an abundance of space and absolute privacy – the ultimate luxuries afforded to the traveler seeking a perfect rest.
Encapsulate yourself in your private villa surrounded by nature. Heighten your senses as you take in the natural sounds of the jungle, from your bedroom or living area. Each villa comprising of an air-conditioned bedroom, living and ensuite bathroom and outdoor rain shower and balcony. Free Wifi and multiple aminities will be available in your bedroom villa.
Our restaurant bring on the table to you traditional Sri Lankan curries meet Western Cuisine. Whether you are un the mood for a chicken curry or a pork chop, all our dishes are freshly prepared with locally sourced ingredients from our very own garden or village community.
The swimming pool nest at the edge of the forest will give you a good refreshing rest between some birding walks
Gal Oya Lodge / 4* Rural Luxury -
Discover an ancient land untouched by time; a haven of serenity in which to reconnect with the rhythms of the earth. Immerse yourself in nature. Soak yourself in local culture. Explore the rich wildlife of Gal Oya, one of Sri Lanka’s most remote and least visited wilderness areas. Gal Oya Lodge is a unique Sri Lanka ecolodge spread across 20 acres of private jungle. Take your time enjoying this natural paradise through the experiences we offer, which include a walk with our Vedda neighbours, one of the last remaining communities of the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka.
Gal Oya Lodge is more than just a Sri Lanka ecolodge. Our philosophy lies at the heart of the design – to bring you closer to nature and to protect the local environment. The concept lives in every detail, from the undisturbed lush forest of our mountain site to the natural materials – such as cajan, wood and illuk – used to create our bungalows. And, of course, we use appropriate technology and recycling to preserve precious natural resources such as water and energy.
Our desire to put nature first doesn’t mean that we’ve compromised on the things that make your holiday special. Gal Oya Lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool, seamlessly integrated into the scenic landscape. And the spacious bungalows have touches of luxury to make you feel at home. Our friendly locally-recruited staff are keen to share with you the stories and hospitality of the region. And the quality of our naturalist guides make us proud, sure to contribute to your visit by vividly bring alive the secrets of the natural world.
Sri Lankan culture and tradition are the inspirational elements at the heart of Gal Oya Lodge. Our bungalows draw their character from rural Sri Lankan villages, created using local techniques, tried and tested over time. Our tables and chairs are handmade by the local village craftsmen using teak and mara wood, applying traditional skills passed down from generation to generation.
Cuisine and locally sourced food is a special highlight of Lodge life. Lovingly prepared, the day’s menu will include a choice of Sri Lankan and Western items, featuring home grown herbs and vegetables, and produce from neighbouring village farmers. Innovative, fresh and healthy, meals are served in the dining room. Be sure to try our delicious national favourites such as curries, sambol and roti.
Proximity and synergy with nature goes beyond design. It is the foundation of how we do things. Our enhanced Sri Lanka ecolodge concept follows environmentally sound practices including recycling, energy conservation, growing our own produce and using sustainable materials whenever we can. We have recently installed a wildlife training and research facility to work with local conservation organisations and to help protect wildlife.
Kottukal Beach House / 4* Beach Small Lodge -
Nested on a sandy stretch of pristine South East coastline rests upon the Indian Ocean, where your mornings are woken up to the serene sounds of crashing waves. Dot an unexplored shoreline flourishing with natural wonders & Nestled amidst a sprawling coastal estate of coconut trees, our own is a plush hideaway neighboring the world famous surfing hotspot of Arugam Bay, an driving distance from one of the least explore National Park which is Kumana.
designed with stunning ocean vistas is our token of island beauty – open to your leisure in the form of two contemporary Deluxe Rooms or two larger boutique Chalets, complete with sophisticated wooden accents, elegant furnishings, and a touch of warmth from our home of Sri Lankan hospitality.
Kottukal Beach House offers only four distinct rooms in the form of two contemporary Deluxe Rooms or two larger boutique Chalets dressed in rustic earthen tones, each of our living spaces naturally complements our coastal environment and feature the added pleasure of a private balcony or terrace for simply lounging, or waking up to the rising sun. Fitted with modern amenities including free wireless internet access, air conditioning, and an ensuite bathroom with a luxury rain shower that provides both hot and cold water, each room caters to a contemporary lifestyle.
Our rustic Dining Room well versed in cuisines of the world, our chef will be happy to plate up a range of continental favourites or Sri Lankan specialties. His frequent visits to our neighbouring fishing village also ensures that any seafood you desire is not only fresh, but comes personally recommended by the local fishermen who reeled in the catch from our eastern seas.
Kulu Safari Yala / 4* Glamping Bush Tented -
The spirit of Kulu is to tread lightly, leaving a minimal footprint on the natural ecology of our wilds. Comfortable accommodation with touches of luxury for the comfort of our guests, our campsite has been handpicked for its remoteness – most often our guests are the only dinner party for miles! All tents have been custom-made in South Africa by one of the world’s leading safari outfitters. Kulu’s Yala camp is ideally situated to explore the multiple sectors (referred to locally as ‘blocks’) of Yala National Park, and we run the majority of our safaris in Block 1 and 5. however, for guests staying 3 or more nights, we visit Block 3, 4 and Lunugamvehera National Park. We cater to clients with varying interests and passions. We host professional photographers on long stays, who depend on our local knowledge and guiding expertise to capture the best of our jungles through their lens.We love hosting families – our guides are adept at translating their knowledge of the jungle into a fun, learning experience for children.
Our Base Camp in Yala offers large tents (each tent is over 200 sq. ft.) that are secured on raised wooden platforms. Each tent includes a small deck (or ‘veranda’ as we like to call it) for some private space to sip an evening drink, or to relax with a good book. The tents have en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold showers. The fly screens support excellent ventilation while keeping out pesky critters.
Our kitchen is well geared for each discerning tastes and we will provide freshly cooked Sri Lankan delicacies
Just in case the lure of safari isn’t enough, Kulu has several activities on offer to keep you busy. * We have kayaks at our Yala Camp, so guests can get out on the water for a couple of hours of solitude, exercise and experience a different aspect of nature.* For more experienced guests, we invite them on a ‘jungle walk’ led by our guides. The walk provides a rare opportunity to learn interesting tips on the art of tracking, animal behaviour, and offers a unique perspective for birding as well as photography. * We also enjoy taking our guests to explore sites of historic and cultural significance in the vicinity of camp. Kataragama is one of the most sacred and symbolic places of worship for all religions, but especially for Buddhists, Hindus and indigenous communities. Sithulpawwa (which is believed to translate broadly to “Hill of the Quiet Mind”) is an ancient jungle monastery that dates back to the 2nd century B.C. Both locations attract many devotees, especially during times of religious festivities. * And what safari is complete without a sun downer at a scenic location, to mark the end of a perfect day in the jungle? But we like to keep the details a secret.
Hill Safari Eco Lodge / 2* Remote Mountain Lodge -
Modern with touch of rustic lodge offering comfortable bedding & European washroom permitting to appreciate “Million Dollars” views given from just below the World End, don’t forget to bring some warm clothing, night are pretty chill.
Only 6 simply furnished bedrooms available (4 bedrooms with view) with private washroom with hot water & toilet. Beds are very comfy with good winter cover. If you feel cold in the room, heater can be request.
The Meals will be delightly Sri Lankan homemade & simply cooked without any exuberance
A common area with 2 sofas and few tables are set for your meals and coffee time. There are no facilities (apart of a baby foot:), as remote it is electricity can be off for sometime, if it is the case during your stay they will give you portable light for you to be able to use in your room to read. Wi-Fi onsite and NO mobile phone signal.
Jansen's Bungalow / 3* Tea Field Bungalow -
The wind whistling through the trees of Sinharaja. The sounds of the creatures of the night. Or, the gurgles of a waterfall. There is something magical when the soothing sounds of Sri Lanka’s last rainforest tempt and seduce you on an adventure of a lifetime. Jansen’s Bungalow, a delightful retreat located within close proximity to the Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve North Gate.Sit on 30 acres of lush greenery and scenic beauty, simple and elegant, this 6-roomed bungalow offers a mixed platter of comfort, excellent service and spectacular views on the rainforest itself.
Only 4 Deluxe rooms (1-3 pax) with private design washroom with AC or fan, White feel and polish cement stylish colonial well-appointed roomsOne extra mattress can be add in the room & Only 2 Family Room (1-4 pax) with private design washroom with AC or fan, Amazing double bed room with mezzanine incorporated 2 single beds.
Amazing home-cooking Sri Lankan dishes well garnished from breakfast, lunch and dinner & tea break. All made with locally sources ingredients and freshly preparedCan be cater for vegetarian, also being able to request non spicy. Some specific dietary won’t be able to cater, please inform us in advance.Facilities & ServicesYou will be able to share main living room to ended your day jungle incursion and share with the other habitants your day.
All facilities are fully natural and priceless as take a dip in the natural pool down the bungalow trail, take a bike to cycle in the village little road.
The property
The wind whistling through the trees of Sinharaja. The sounds of the creatures of the night. Or, the gurgles of a waterfall. There is something magical when the soothing sounds of Sri Lanka’s last rainforest tempt and seduce you on an adventure of a lifetime. Jansen’s Bungalow, a delightful retreat located within close proximity to the Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve North Gate.
Sit on 30 acres of lush greenery and scenic beauty, simple and elegant, this 6-roomed bungalow offers a mixed platter of comfort, excellent service and spectacular views on the rainforest itself.
Accommodation
Double Room (1-3 pax) Only 4 rooms with private design washroom with AC or fan, White feel and polish cement stylish colonial well-appointed rooms
One extra mattress can be add in the room.
Family Room (1-4 pax) Only 2 rooms with private design washroom with AC or fan, Amazing double bed room with mezzanine incorporated 2 single beds.
Cuisine
Amazing home-cooking Sri Lankan dishes well garnished from breakfast, lunch and dinner & tea break. All made with locally sources ingredients and freshly prepared
Can be cater for vegetarian, also being able to request non spicy. Some specific dietary won’t be able to cater, please inform us in advance.
Facilities & Services
You will be able to share main living room to ended your day jungle incursion and share with the other habitants your day. All facilities are fully natural and priceless as take a dip in the natural pool down the bungalow trail, take a bike to cycle in the village little road.
Guides
Our experienced guide will bring you along during this 3 days, as well as a national park guide on day 2 as they will spot for you all birds, wildlife to be seen.
Day 1
At 6.30 am guests board Pearl from Mirissa Port and set sail towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast and the moment whales are spotted you will be invited to the bow or upper deck for the best view. After the whale watching we return to shore and anchor for few hours where you can participate to some watersport, guests can swim and snorkel until the snack is served. At 1.30 pm guests disembark at Mirissa Port to depart to your next destination
This itinerary in this remote location can change depending on the meteorological conditions, the Naval advisories and the captain’s assessment!
Accommodation
This itinerary is purely "Off The Grib" for Adventurous ONLY with local accommodation, traditional tent camping, government resthouse with limited to NO Commodity. For this adventure trip certains nights will be fixed as no other property exist in the area and thoses lodging will be simple to basic. For the Beach Retreat, let us know what service expectation you desire from 2* to 5* property)
Simple Local Lodge 1* aside Maduru Oya - Basic Double or Twin Beds Room with Sharing Toilet & Shower Room
Government Resthouse or Simple Local Lodge 1* aside Galoya - Basic Double or Twin Beds Room with Sharing Toilet & Shower Room
Pure Bush Camping in the heart of Galoya National Park - Simple Tent with no toilet & shower
Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*)
Bush Beach Camp in the heart of Kumana National Park - (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your camp property as simple tent with yoga mat or simple glamping 1* with bed can be arrange)
Day 1
Meet us at the Sri Lanka Airforce base at Koggala Airport 30 min before the flight schedule you have been selected with us. At time ready, embark into one of the unique 3 three aircraft on the tarmac. Preparing to take off on the three-seater Cessna 172 aircraft are greeted with a chilled drink and a comfortable check-in lounge by a lake at the tail-end of the runway. Get in and depart for a 45 min flight above the South West Coast of Sri Lanka and going deeper off the coast into the Indian Ocean in chess to spot majestuous Whale. Above the sea, fly above a cluster of tourist boats below – also on the same whale-watching expedition. Get the chance to encounter to observe such mammal even more breathtaking when done through an aircraft as it does not disturb the whale’s natural habitat. take some round around observing the majestic nature some of the largest mammal in the world from an aerial point of view leaves passengers with an incomparable experience and understanding of the true magnitude of the beauty and grace of the species. Before taking a round back to the airport, on the way back keep your eyes open in case some dolphins, turtles shows off, enjoy breathtaking sceneries of the coasr line before landed.
The Airline Company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any flight at any time due to inclement weather, safety concerns, maintenance requirements or any other reason.
The property
Offering few camping areas in diverse location in the heart of the park, it will depend of the availability on your booking date. Each area are totally exclusive, some are by the pure white sandy beach surrounded by a deep bushes where elephants sometime walk across & during the season turtles ponding , another camp sample is beside the Kumbukkan river (separated Yala & Kumana) far deep inside the bushes, where the night(s) become alive. Each camp are totally mobile which will be set up and remove only during the period of your stay, it will come along with portable toilet and shower tents which make you live-in the pure camping experience in one of the most wildlife populated NP
Accommodation
Dome Tent (1-3 pax) Back to Traditional dome tent camping with inflatable mattress (20mm) – Sleeping bag excluded don’t forget to bring it with you
Glamping Tent (1-2 pax) Tented safari camp includes spacious tents with actual beds, soft pillows, freshly laundered linen, en-suite bathrooms with toilet and shower, running water, solar powered lamps; ensuing a luxurious environment and a cozy ambience (NO FAN)
No electricity available in all inside National Camps
Cuisine
The camp kitchen is kept busy preparing tantalizing Sri Lankan meals using fresh home grown vegetables, meat, poultry and eggs, thus ensuring every meal is freshly prepared and served new. Indulge in a fresh fruit platter; quench your thirst with fresh fruit juice or a hot cup of tea/coffee. Get ready for some excitement around the roaring campfire when tantalizing BBQ gets going accompanied by a singsong, hurricane lanterns and copra lamps. If you intend travelling out then picnic meals/snacks too can be arranged.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we can prepare simple meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
No facilities will be provided apart being where you are. Such a lush & uniqueless to be able to spend the night(s) inside one national park (not just outside the NP gate), to know where you are at that time. Our team will take good care of you during your stay.
Guides
Our drivers are all experiences off the beaten track dust & muddy road riders will make your drive feel safe. One National Park Ranger will also being following you to spot & describe for you all wild encounters.
The property
Set in 3.5 acres of open plan beach surrounds, it is a seriously chilled place to be. With no noise or light pollution at the camp, the only sounds you will hear are the waves crashing against the beach and the laughter of our guests as they unwind after a day at sea. Set only 5 min drive away from Arugambay where shops, restaurants, beach bars, ayuverdic centre, and a supermarket will be fully available.
Accommodation
Wooden cabanas (1-3 pax) Eight beach cabanas frame the camp are equipped with your own bathroom, five with open-air bathrooms so you can shower in the fresh air, and all have a western style toilet, hot shower and basin, double bed, netting and fan. There's a hammock outside so you can relax after a surf.
Large dorm where 7 surfers can sleeps in and equipped with fans to keep you cool. The dorm has a shared bathroom. Alternatively, stay in the Folly: open air sleeping by the sea.
Cuisine
We serve simple and well garnished breakfast, lunch and dinner at the camp as well as a range of snacks to feed your hungry post surf bellies. Fill up on porridge, eggs, fruit or traditional curries and rice, all made with locally sourced ingredients and prepared freshly by our local chef.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we can prepare simple meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
You'll find a large community area in the middle to chill after your surf is full of places for you to relax; use it to read, play games, snooze after surf, and chat. Plus, make the most of the chillout zones that you'll find dotted around the camp, and comfy sunbeds that are down by the beach for you to top-up your tan.
Guides
Our surf instructors crew is made up of locals as their knowledge of the area, ocean, currents, and tides is some of the best out there. They will have you paddling, standing on your board, and catching and riding waves in no time– all with a big smile on your face.
The property
Along many kilometers of flat water and constant wind make this sailing expedition a lush getaway for the freestyler enthusiasts with daily magnificient sceneries. If you are not into kiting no worry, you can just enjoy the sunshine and relax onboard. You can even sleep under the beautiful starry sky.
Accommodation
Our catamaran is a lush of solution for a getaway, a retreat, a stag night or even party. In Privatizing it, we will customize your trip and adjust to your requirements. For those travelling alone, book a cabin will be a perfect option and enjoy the stay on the boat with like-minded people. You can come with your partner or on your own and meet new people on the spot.
The boat consists of two cabin double and one cabin triple for a total of seven guests, which provide an extremely good private kitesurfing expedition.
Cuisine
Onboard, local & a little bit of western delicacies will be served for each meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) fresh fruit and vegetables. A big plus to appreciate the end of day & the sundown as alcohol is also included!
Facilities & Services
Both for kiters and non-kiters… We will be sailing lagoons, most of your time will be onboard and on the water riding, apart of sunbathing, swimming, getting around and sharing moments with friends or other riders. Bring a good book, some good music and take this time to resource yourself
Guides
2 advanced instructors will be on board to help you improve your riding and give you as much tuition as you can handle, think of it as having your own personal coaches/photographers for a few days!
One distinctive feature of Sri Lankan culture is the way in which ethnicity, language and religious affiliation correlate with one another, each being key determinants of an individual’s identity. Alongside the two largest ethnic groups – Sinhalese (74.9%) and Tamil (15.4%) – the third largest ethnic group is Sri Lankan Moors (9.2%). The remaining 0.5% of Sri Lanka’s population is comprised of Burghers (mixed European descent), Parsis (immigrants from west India) and Veddas (who are identified as the indigenous inhabitants of the land). The Tamils separate further into two groups, Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
Ethnicity and religion are often closely linked in Sri Lanka. In fact, one’s religion is often able to be interpreted from their ethnicity. More specifically, 70.2% of the population identify as Buddhist and are typically of Sinhalese ethnicity, while those who identify as Hindu (12.6%) tend to be ethnically Tamil. Although those who identify as Muslim (9.7%) come from various backgrounds (most being Sri Lankan Moors), they are commonly recognised as a single populace in Sri Lankan society.
The prevalence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka tends to reinforce the dominance of the Sinhalese majority. The Sinhalese elites and parts of the Buddhist Sangha who support Sinhala Buddhist nationalism argue that Sri Lanka is the ‘Dhamma Kingdom’ – the land of Buddhism.
There are three official languages of Sri Lanka: Sinhala, Tamil and English
Day 1 (L)
After your breakfast, you will take the lead to the un-exposed Angammedilla National Park (about 1hrs30min-2hrs transfer from Sigiriya/Dambulla, 45min from Polonnaruwa)), after your registration, you will venture first by foot to one part of the national park (in the bush) to reach the river which you will follow until you get back to your starting point. During this walk observe amazing forest and encounter wildlife species like giant flying squerrel, various monkey as Toque Macaques, White Langgur black face Monkey and also crocodile if they are not too shy to show themselve. You will then enter the another side of the park this time in 4x4 jeep to ride all the way to the giant reservoir “Parakrama Samudra” where by 4pm onward hordes of Elephants and giant tuskers can be seen. You will ride along the lake (depend of its water level) to look for them. Observe multiples varieties of vagrant and migrant birds on and by the reservoir which will had this ride worth to experience. After the incursion into the National Park, you will be transfer back to your property for you to enjoy the peaceful environment and its facilities. Rest of the evening and night free and easy
BE AWARE: if the water level of the Parakrama Samudra Lake will be too high, the 4x4 safari in Angamedilla NP will be transfer to Kaudulla NP
The property
This campsite will be only accessible by one road end of dusty road accessible via jeep. No toilet and shower will be established at this camp. We will define you the location where you will be able to do your needs and toiletry. During this night at your camp, you will be absolutely cut away from the normal way of life as no signal will cover the area, we will carry satellite phone in case of emergency. Before we leave this campside, we will entirely clean up our passage to let back the wild where it supposed to be with the minimum human impact.
Accommodation
Maduru Oya NP Camp Side (1-3 pax) Each 3 person tent with yoga mat will be bring along in one of the jeep. Toilet will be taken in the wilderness, (No shower place) – pure authentic camping experience.
Cuisine
Simple and very delightful local delicacies cook on the stove fire at the camp site. Where you will be enjoy to appreciate each meal as well we won’t forget some good coffee & tea to be given as much as possible all in being in unique less-people getaway
Guides
Local acknowledges guides, National Park Rangers & Jeep Driver
Depart can be organise everyday
Day 1
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded early morning or late afternoon, taking the direction of Ambalangoda (40KM around 1hr drive) unique town which has an ancient tradition of mask making. For several centuries, a few families from this town had carefully crafted the different masks required to maintain specific aspects of Sri Lankan culture. The masks were an integral part of religious rituals, spiritual ceremonies, traditional plays, local dance forms, puppeteering, and general aesthetic expression. The use of these masks has, however, reduced in recent times along with the wane in influence of their associated cultural traditions. Still, a few loyal, gifted artisans keep playing their trade, and Janaka is one such person.
You will enter his workshop which is built into his very home which immediately takes you to another time; a different place. It is a labyrinth of Feerie masks, intense colour, and traditional pieces of art. Worldly interpretations of otherworldly artistic thoughts, they are. This is where you will first encounter ‘The Mask Man’. Janaka humbly reveals the nature of his work and life to you while offering a few light refreshments, before setting off to experience the daily sights and sounds that have shaped him. First, he takes you to an ancient Buddhist temple close to the heart of the town of Ambalangoda. A primary reason for the significance of the Sunandarama Temple is the bell tower it houses, which is known to be the largest in Sri Lanka. Also found here are several paintings dating back to the 18th century, with immense archaeological and historic value to, both, the region and the country. He briefly introduces a few fundamental Buddhist concepts: a deep reverence for the Buddha, the essence of his teaching, and the symbolic value of the Bo tree. A different temple, where the largest reclining Buddha statue (35m) rests is also swiftly visited. A short distance from the temple is an aesthetic treat; a few houses dedicated entirely to the art of mask carving. As with Janaka’s, their workshops too are set within their own homes. There is little separation between the craft they have honed for decades and their daily lives. Their stories, experiences and feelings, therefore, find their way into the detailed carvings on these masks. In every sense of the term, it is a family-run cottage industry. A quick moke ride away and Janaka immerses you in a vastly different artistic tradition. Batik — a cloth dyeing technique originating from Java, Indonesia and first introduced locally by the Sri Lankan Malays — is an important part of the cultural fabric of Sri Lanka. A small batik dyeing facility and the many processes involved are shown. Operated by several local ladies, they run their households with the additional income generated from this enterprise. Next, Janaka takes you to a functional coconut oil refinery. The ancient method of deriving coconut oil by applying immense pressure on the coconut flesh, using a millstone system, is employed here. The large stone wheel is kept in motion by a cow. Coconut oil is widely consumed in these parts as cooking oil, hair oil, and for its medicinal properties in the Ayurvedic tradition. This niche, alternate experience culminates with a return trip to The Mask Man’s workshop. A relaxed glimpse of the various mediums (canvas, plates, wooden pallets, etc.) that he employs to make traditional paintings is offered at this point. You can savour a fabulous meal prepared by his wife, within their own home. You will then get back on the road back to your property at Galle and its surrounded.
Day 1
At your arrival at the heart of the city, you will change your transport to embark into a 2 -3hrs tuk tuk journey. You’ll wander through woods where crumbling walls and stone pillars emerge from overgrown grasses, ride & walk deeper into the forest to discover what was once unknown, this 2,000 year old city revealing itself to you. Stand among the silent ruins as you gaze in all directions, breeze will stir the trees first on your left, then on your right, as it winds through the forest. The dampness of the heat will stick to you in the middle of the day as you pad through unpaved paths leading to moss-covered brick walls and moonstones and thousand-year-old Buddha sculptures. Giant stupas will tower over the largest trees, and you’ll realize that seeing a single one of these far on the horizon is more impressive than a modern city skyline. You’ll walk the round bases of countless dagobas, craning your neck to see the top, gazing at the white plaster that makes them instantly recognizable throughout the country where silently witness the devout as they pray and lay offerings at these active religious sites.
Day 1 (L)
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded to be a your host house in Galle by 12pm. At your arrival at your host house, you will be introduced then within the cozy setting of her spacious kitchen and beautiful, open-styled home, Shahira introduces some of these flavours through a scrumptious full meal. The passing down of age old recipes is an intimate and emotional affair. Mindful of this notion, she imparts this culinary wisdom to those who partake in this unique, local experience in a loving manner, while also sharing numerous simple kitchen secrets that are essential in the authentic preparation of any Sri Lankan meal. She expertly guides you through the individual steps that go into preparing each course and ensures that the participants are actively involved throughout.
Today you will learn how to prepare Hoppers which are essentially crisp, bowl-shaped pancakes prepared from fermented rice flour. It is believed that they first made their way to Sri Lanka from South India, possibly through the influence of the Sri Lankan Tamil community. Hoppers (Anglicized), or ‘appa’ as they are referred to locally, have certainly become culturally synonymous with Sri Lankan cuisine today. They are enjoyed mostly at dinnertime. As accompaniments, several tasteful curries incorporating either fish or meat are offered, along with a fiery chilli and onion based condiment that is a must-have with any hopper meal. After 5pm, we will bring you back to your hotel in Galle or its surrounded.
Day 1 (L)
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded to be at one of the Weligama Beach by 8am. After being welcome and introduce, your Kayak Guide who is trained in CPR and First Aid will explain the day and will help you to set all your equipment. When everybody ready, grab your Sea kayaking then paddle the whole day around the Weligama bay and on route we visit the Mirissa fishing harbor, the clay cliffs of the southern end of the bay and the many reefs and small islands. Often we have a packed lunch as visit some beaches which are exclusive to those making the effect by boat. We can get extremely lucky and be with the whale too. Back to the beach in the middle of the afternoon to the beach where your transportation will be awaiting for you, get in it and go for your next destination.
The property
Samadhi is owned by antique dealer and organic farmer manqué, Waruna Jayasinghe, erstwhile hippy, who has turned a piece of jungle into a small, perfectly balanced micro-kingdom which supplies you with all the creature comforts for your retreat. He started building his dream child during a particularly hectic time in his life, while running Antique shops in two cities, – with authentic Kandyan antiques and Medieval Sinhalese artifacts.
The inspiration for the design and architecture was born of meditation. And so you willingly leave your city husk behind at the gates…with no signal for mobile phones, it is the perfect opportunity to let nothing interrupt the sounds of forest birdsong, of tree frogs and crickets and the whisper of the breeze from the trees.
Accommodation
The 13 pavilions, which lean out of the hillside, are veritable temples of tranquility. They are designed to make you feel you are the only person staying here. Privacy is everything. Yet there are no unnecessary walls.
This results in a truly serene environment surrounded by urns, art and treasures dating back to a time Kandy was a Royal realm. Here everything is king-sized. The Indonesian teak bed in a double room is spacious enough to sleep three people comfortably. But even the smallest suite provides a four-poster bed to dream in.
"Mud house accommodation listed below is less luxurious though spacious and has character of traditional village houses (albeit on a much larger scale!) These are frequently sought out amongst the guests who return to Samadhi time and time again to relish the original flavor of an old Sinhala village. They all have spacious bathrooms withy showers and hot water."
TOP HILL HOUSE
Honeymoon Suite
(situated on top floor of Mountain Pavilion) has 360 degree views of mountains, forest and provides: 1 small double bedroom,1 king-size living room open to views both sides + separate bathroom with antique bath and twin showers.
Mountain Pavilion (connected to honeymoon suite)
(situated on floor below the Honeymoon Suite) has great views of mountain, forest and provides: 2 double bedrooms with shared bathroom with antique bath, large veranda looking onto mountain, a self-catering kitchenette when required.
CLASSIC WING
Knuckles Pavilion
(situated on floor below the Rooftop restaurant) has 360 degree view of Knuckles Range in distance) providing: spacious suite with 2 double beds and living area with sofas, a dining table + chairs for 8, a very large bathroom with king size antique bath +a spacious terrace leading from French windows of Suite. Decoration focus is antique furnishings and theatre curtains.
Ramya Pavilion
5 minutes from the main restaurant with the view of the jungle.large apartment with two king size double beds, one nature bath room with a large antique bath tub and a large separated upper sitting and dining area with a nice veranda.
Painters Pavilion
(situated on floor below Knuckles Pavilion) provides 2 king size double beds in spacious Suite, a terrace and large bathroom with antique bath. Views of Knuckles Range and forest. Decoration focus is on Art by local Painters.
Textile Pavilion
(situated next to Painters Pavilion on floor below the Knuckles Pavilion) provides spacious self contained suite featuring 2 King-size double beds, sitting area with sofas/coffee table, dining room, outdoor terrace, large next-to-nature bathroom with antique bath, shower with 180 degree view of open forest. Decoration focus is antique Kandyan textiles.
Thripala Pavilion
(situated next to Knuckles Pavilion but entirely self contained) provides 3 double bedrooms, 2 large next-to-nature bathrooms featuring king-size antique baths + shower against forest backdrop and large living/dining room with dining table seating 6 as well as an outside terrace. Decoration focus is antique furniture and theatre curtains.
RIVER ROOMS
Huluganga Pavillion
This room is 100 meters away from the dining area . A bit remote place. And it's in front of the river . It has a open windows covering from traditional carpets . 180 degrees open to the nature. Have 1 double bed and 1 single bed in the room. There is a nice view of river and jungle. Bathroom is small compared to our other rooms. Ideal accommodation for long stays/ writers & artists wanting absolute privacy.
Huluganga Breeze
This room is 100 meters away from the dining area . This room is fully covered. Don't have open windows .Situated on floor directly below the above pavilion. It's also has view /sounds of river + large L-shaped veranda with 360 degree view of forest/river with 2 double beds, 2 single beds and separate shower room .
MUD HOUSE
Mud house No 12+13
(situated overlooking view and sounds of river) is 2-minute walk to No 10+11 mud house, provides simple accommodation in 2 large double beds + 1 single with shared bathroom (between these two rooms).
Mud house no 10+11
It has two separate room with shared bathroom. It's a outdoor bathroom and rooms are small. Bathrooms with showers and hot water. Have Mud walls with cow dung. Looks like old Traditional Sri Lankan House. Veranda overlooking the complex/forest
Sooriya Pavilion
Triple room with hot and cold shower includes one double bed and one single bed .
Each room features rustic design wooden furniture, extra-large pillows, 100% cotton, high thread count sheets, coffee and tea making facilities and cabinet.
Cuisine
All the food prepared at Samadhi is organic and freshly picked before each meal. It is vegetarian cookery at its best. The rice you eat is home grown and one of thirteen ancient Sinhala varieties organically farmed in the paddy fields across the river. The water you drink is sourced directly from an unpolluted mountain spring on Samadhi land.
Breakfast taken in the dining pavilion which is open on four sides to the forest and the river sounds is sumptuous by any standard. Steamed Manioc (cassava) with grated coconut, Gotukola mallun, Egg curry, pumpkin, sambo and Milk-rice are preceded by home grown pineapple, Papaya and guava.
Its surrounded
The inspiration for the design and architecture was born of meditation. And so you willingly leave your city husk behind at the gates…with no signal for mobile phones, it is the perfect opportunity to let nothing interrupt the sounds of forest birdsong, of tree frogs and crickets and the whisper of the breeze from the trees.
The thirteen pavilions, which lean out of the hillside, are veritable temples of tranquility. They are designed to make you feel you are the only person staying here. Privacy is everything. Yet there are no unnecessary walls.
This results in a truly serene environment surrounded by urns, art and treasures dating back to a time Kandy was a Royal realm. Here everything is king-sized. The Indonesian teak bed in a double room is spacious enough to sleep three people comfortably. But even the smallest suite provides a four-poster bed to dream in.
On waking in the early hours listen to tree frogs whose cacophony seems like a child tinkering with a Xylophone. The birds call to their mates. The deer cough, the wild boar are evident only by the rustle in the bush and the porcupine is even more timid.
Facilities & Services
Perfect retreat away to all current technology (no tv, no air cond, no ipod dock,…), the Wifi is only available from the terrasse where you will have some of the tea break. No Swimming pool. But you will have amazing landscape, unique zen property offering the best of Ayurvedha & yoga in the whole central Sri Lanka. A perfect retreat to live the lush experience of rejuvenate before continuing your adventure through the pearl of Indian Ocean.
Guides
Professional Samadhi Retreat members (team member, yoga instructor, Ayurveda doctor) will accompany you during your experience
Day 1(L)
Picked up from your hotel in Colombo around 10.00am to take the direction to Hokandara, lying along the outer periphery of Colombo’s numerous suburbs, After a short bumpy ride down a rugged, narrow lane off the main road, and the terrain changes drastically. Here you encounter the first glimpses of rural beauty inherent in the island’s general landscape where the farm is established
An acre of agricultural land farmed by an elderly lady from the village is the setting for this local experience. What is special here, is her chosen livelihood and the hands-on guidance she provides to other farmers in the area, in what is generally a male-dominated profession when looking at Sri Lanka’s long agrarian history. The produce found here include dambala (the winged bean), heirloom tomatoes, soursop, and several varieties of chilli pepper. The experience revolves around the plucking of these fruits and vegetables, and their subsequent preparation in her outdoor kitchen. Her reliance on traditional agricultural methods and natural fertilizers such as cow dung in their cultivation, ensure that you are served high quality,
organically grown produce. The meal is cooked using a simple firewood stove assembled on the ground with a few fired, clay bricks and her readily available supply of dried firewood. This cooking experience consists of six curries highlighting simple village fare, a local mix of leaves, freshly prepared soursop juice, and a king coconut to refresh yourself and round off the meal! The inclusion of meat, other customized needs, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated. After your homemade lunch, you will depart back to your property (arrival estimated 4pm)
Day 1
At your arrival at the heart of the city, you will change your transport to embark into a 2 -3hrs tuk tuk journey. You’ll wander through woods where crumbling walls and stone pillars emerge from overgrown grasses, ride & walk deeper into the forest to discover what was once unknown, this 2,000 year old city revealing itself to you. Stand among the silent ruins as you gaze in all directions, breeze will stir the trees first on your left, then on your right, as it winds through the forest. The dampness of the heat will stick to you in the middle of the day as you pad through unpaved paths leading to moss-covered brick walls and moonstones and thousand-year-old Buddha sculptures. Giant stupas will tower over the largest trees, and you’ll realize that seeing a single one of these far on the horizon is more impressive than a modern city skyline. You’ll walk the round bases of countless dagobas, craning your neck to see the top, gazing at the white plaster that makes them instantly recognizable throughout the country where silently witness the devout as they pray and lay offerings at these active religious sites.
Day 1
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded by 2pm, taking the direction of a local school teacher residence located in Galle. During this 1.30-2 hrs of this DIY experience is designed to engage kids through creative work whether it’s arts or crafts and help them explore their imagination while on holiday so that their parents can have some much needed time off or even joining the activities and share with their kids this activity. After this activity, you will depart back to your property in or around Galle
Accommodation
Government Resthouse (1-3pax) Each basic room offer one queen or 2 single beds with attached simple bathroom with only cold water
Ridge Bivouac Camp Site (1-2pax) Each 2 person quickhiker ultralight tent with self-inflating mattress will be carried by each trekker (no porter). Toilet and shower will be taken in the wilderness – pure authentic camping experience
Gal Oya NP Camp Site (1-2pax) Each 2 person quickhiker ultralight tent with self-inflating mattress will be bring along in one of the 4x4 jeep. Toilet will be taken in the wilderness, (No shower place) – pure authentic camping experience
Cuisine
Simple and very delightful local delicacies cook on wood fire or on the stove depend of the camps location. You will venture trying native veddah cuisine which become extremely rare to get to try out their delicacies as well as purely Sri Lankan freshly made dishes. We won’t forget some good coffee & tea to be given as much as possible.
At the government resthouse, simple sri Lankan dishes will be made with the opportunity to get some fresh beers or carbonated drinks
Facilities & Services
Apart at the Government Resthouse where a restaurant will give you the basic necessity, absolutely no facilities in both camp sites will be available
Guides
Local acknowledges guides, National Park Rangers & Native Veddah Guides in maximum small groups (1:8 maximum, but usually no more than 1:6).
Only depart every Monday, Wednesday, Friday
The property
The both campsite will be only accessible by one road end of dusty road accessible via jeep and one through out a journey trek across the evergreen Savanna. No toilet and shower will be established at both camps. We will define you the location where you will be able to do your needs and toiletry. During nights at your camps, you will be absolutely cut away from the normal way of life as no signal will cover the area, we will carry satellite phone in case of emergency. Before we leave this campside, we will entirely clean up our passage to let back the wild where it supposed to be with the minimum human impact.
Accommodation
Maduru Oya NP Camp Site (1-4pax) Each 3 person tent with yoga mat will be bring along in one of the jeep. Toilet will be taken in the wilderness, (No toilet &shower place) – pure authentic camping experience.
Ridge Bivouac Camp Site (1-4pax) Each person will sleep on a yoga mat on open air in an open cave. Toilet and shower will be taken in the wilderness – pure authentic camping experience
No electricity available inside National Camp
Cuisine
Simple and very delightful local delicacies cook on wood fire or on the stove depend of the camps location. You will venture trying native veddah cuisine which become extremely rare to get to try out their delicacies as well as purely Sri Lankan freshly made dishes. We won’t forget some good coffee & tea to be given as much as possible. Alcohol will not be permitted inside the park (for all Non Alcoholic Beverage, please buy prior entrance the National Park). Please remain to bring back all garbage you will bring in
Facilities & Services
No facilities will be provided apart being where you are. Such a lush & uniqueless to be able to spend the night(s) inside one national park (not just outside the NP gate) and one night in the middle of the wilderness in a cave. Our team will take good care of you during your stay.
Guides
Local acknowledges guides, & Native Veddah Guides, National Park Rangers & Jeep Driver
Depart can be organise everyday
The Property
Our camp is about 300 KM up-north from Colombo, on route you could stop to see Elephants and Ancient Cities as well. Our Kitecamp is very special and continue to be a rustic stylish property with lots of cafre and attention to details. This is our home and we live on the premises. A lot of care and attention goes into it. From every plant to the placement of each stone you will experience our love for design and art.
The Vayu Resort wooden cabanas have been designed having studied our locations in Kalpitiya. We have 12 bungalows and 6 tents – so the camp will be pretty exclusive. Each wooden bungalow has been elevated to give you a nice view of the ocean and clearance from the sand that can fly due to high winds. We have included a 2 to 4-bed option making the bungalows suitable for groups of friends and families.
The open-air washroom gives you a novel experience: shower under the stars! A verandah has been included for you to relax in privacy. All bungalows will be stand-alone and will have mosquito nets.
Each bungalow is a short walk from the Adam’s Bridge and surrounded by nature.
The sunsets as well as the starry nights are stunning and between some kite rides or beach chilling, you can try out Yoga, Massage, SUP, Kayaks and nature-based excursions. Nothing better to try out our Cuisine which we set Local food reflecting the Northern delicacies as well as Western.
Accommodation
Deluxe Bungalow (1-4 pax) 6 accommodations options for individual, couple or group of friends to live and experience kitecamp atmosphere and feeling. You will love it
Garden Bungalow (1-3 pax) The tranquility of the 6 white sand garden view bungalows is ideal for nature lovers beauty of the ocean and the beach from your terrace.
Deluxe Tent (1-4 pax) The 6 tents are set in the middle of our tropical garden. Big and comfortable with a common washroom, they come with everything needed.
Peak period bookings will incur Peak Season charges : 1 May – 31 Oct & 01 Dec- 31 Mar
Cuisine
You will discover a wide variety of local and international cuisine freshly picked from North Mannar Area. Seafood brought daily by the local fisherman. All day round, enjoy our free tea coffee and water bar! Buffet style will be serve during each meal, with possibility to opt for “A la carte” option dining.
One small Bar will offer you a limited of alcoholic & non alcoholic beverage and some almost “presque”perfect original espresso, many more.
Facilities & Services
Both for kiters and non-kiters… We are more than a kite camp is a great place for chilling, even if your mind is not set on riding… If you don’t kite, if you’re tired, or if you have kids, try our free bees: Stand Up Paddle, Kayak, Wakeboard, Volleyball, Bike, Slack line, pétanque, Dart game, Board games…During low season or if we don’t have wind we organize wakeboarding session & some snorkeling boat session…
Guides
we believe that everyone can improve something about the way they kite, and we want to help you do just that. Whether you’re working on your upwind riding position, trying your first jumps, or even trying to crack that elusive backmobe, our advanced clinics could be the perfect solution for you.
Our advanced IKO Certified instructors know exactly how to help you improve your technique, and can suggest the next steps and/or new tricks for you to try.
Our clinics are designed to help give you the confidence and the know how to push yourself safely, with theory, demonstrations, and video coaching to show you exactly where your mistakes are being made. It’s difficult in the moment to know what’s gone wrong with a trick, and being able to see the mistake on video makes it much easier to correct the next time. We’ll even throw in some nice photos at the end of your stay so you can show off to your mates what new skills you’ve picked up.
The property
Modern with touch of rustic lodge offering comfortable bedding & European washroom permitting to appreciate “Million Dollars” views given from just below the World End, don’t forget to bring some warm clothing,
Accommodation
Double / Twin Room (1-3 pax) . There’s a kitchen, the hosted couple’s bedroom – which doubles as storage space – a narrow corridor, and a small but comfortable guestroom, simply furnished with a bed, chair, candles and a trunkful of books. There are no facilities, no electricity and candles and a kerosene lamp provide the only light at night.
Cuisine
Basic and tasty dishes and special diets catered for.
Facilities & Services
Baby-foot, wifi, free flow coffee & tea, filter water, 24hrs electricity, warm water.
Guides
Our experienced trekking guide will bring you along during this 3 days, as well as the National park ranger for the climb of the Kirigalpoththa, will be our guides & hosts.
CHOICE BETWEEN 2 SNORKELING DESTINATION
OPT1 - PIGEON ISLAND MARINE PARK SNORKELING (morning or afternoon)
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am or 1.30pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you at the beach. You will experience a “mise a l’eau” with some sensation and take the direction of Pigeon Island Marine Park within a boat ride of around 20 minutes. Arrival at site, jump into the stunning blue sea and snorkel for a maximum 3hrs, open your eyes as loads of hard corals, amazing Indian Ocean underwater biodiversity. Ssometime turtles, mostly also Black Tip Reef Sharks in the shallow water can be observe. Get back on your boat and depart to your the dive center from where you will leave a new destination.
OPT2 - NILAVELI CORAL ISLAND SNORKEL (Morning or Afternoon)
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am or 1.30pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you on the beach. You will experience a “mise a l’eau” with some sensation and take the direction the Coral Island Reef from where you will jump in the water all equipments on and snorkel for 2hrs in this underwater paradise, where perfect blue turquoise water blended fantastically with the color of the coral reef & the multiple variety of fish. After your 2 hrs of pure pleasure (you can extend of 1 more hr with an additional cost, let us know during your booking inquiry), get back on your boat and depart to the dive center from where you will leave to your next destination.
Day 1 (L)
Picked up from your hotel in Galle and its surrounded to be a your host house in Galle by 12pm. Art your arrival you will be great by your host who is Ifthikar Mahuroof. He is a fourth generation member of a distinguished gem family hailing from the coastal city of Galle. His life is a treasure trove of emotionally-moving anecdotes, descriptive narratives and personal accounts. Stories on world personalities that he has met, epic travels to far off lands, and the romantic history of Ceylon’s gem trade, unravel slowly during the course of this one-of-a-kind experience. The ‘Gem Stories’ experience revolves around an individual who has played a vital role in the continuation of this trade.
After your lunch you will be farewell by your host before you will then get back on the road back to your property at Galle and its surrounded.
The property
Palmyrah House is situated in the approximate center of Mannar Island, with easy access to any place on the isle. We offer comfortable rooms, delicious food, a swimming pool, traditional well bath, recreational area, gym, library, bar, restaurant and some sightseeing bicycle ride around the safe, clean Mannar Island. Palmyrah House covers 35 acres, hosting fourteen rooms, all manned by our friendly and local staff which has been trained daily and carefully by Udaya (The resident manager and its team). By their genuine personalities, the entire team of The Palmyrah House will take good care of every of your need
Accommodation
The Palmyrah House is a luxury boutique hotel, consisting of fourteen rooms, all elegantly furnished for maximum comfort. Naturally all rooms are air conditioned, with their own private deck, adjoining bathrooms with hot-and-cold showers and having access to Wi-Fi. One of the guest building houses six bedrooms, with two on the upper deck and four on the lower deck. In addition, there are four chalets, with two rooms each as well as adequate housing for the staff.
Superior Room (1-2 pax)
Only 4 rooms (Ground floor only) with private design bathroom with individually controlled A/C, set with 2 full-sized single beds (for twin or queen request) with direct access to private own veranda,Wheel-chair accessiblity
Deluxe Room (1-3 pax)
Only 8 rooms with private design bathroom with individually controlled A/C, set with 1 king-sized bed (plus 1 full-sized single bed for triple occupancy) with direct access to private own deck (decks of suite can be conjointed to form a large deck for groups / family room). Wheel-chair accessiblity
Suite Room (2-4 pax)
Only 2 rooms en-suite bathroom with dual wash-basins & bath tub. Luxuriously appointed 2 suites with one King-size & 1 Queen-size beds with individual controlled A/C, with direct access to private own deck. Wheel-chair accessiblity
PS: An expansive 950 sq each of two luxuriously appointed suites with triple bed space facing large screen TV screens, and en-suite bathrooms featuring bath tubs with spacious private conjoined decks.
Cuisine
Some of the best cuisine in Mannar, all meals are provided and dishes can be tailor-made to your tastes with a little prior notice. However, we do recommended that our visitors try our acclaimed local menu. Meals can be taken either at the restaurant (capable of seating 40 people), or at your own private deck. The food is prepared from the freshest ingredients from each day's ocean bounty as well as the best organic produce from Totum Farms. Guests should also try our homemade palmyrah jaggery and chili paste
Facilities & Services
Everyone of you need to stay refreshed, whether it be swimming pools, traditional well baths or trips to the beach. Enjoy our delicious local cuisine, made from the freshest local ingredients of land and sea. Burn off those calories at our gym, or take a sightseeing bicycle ride around the safe, clean roads of Mannar Island. You can
also rent snorkeling gear if they are planning an ocean adventure and guides are available if they wish to explore the many natural and historical sites of Mannar. Also of interest is our beautiful range of signature handmade palmyrah products.
Guides
Our in-house Ornithologist will bring you along looking for the most birds possible during your time her - Combine group 1:10
Day 1 (-)
By 5 am we will pick you up at your property around Kirinda to take the direction of Kirinda Beach where after getting your equipment embark into the speedboat for 1hr ride all the way to the exclusive Lighthouse reef so-called “Great Basses”. At your arrival at the first dive site, equiped yourself then by 7:30am, backroll entry then venture into this unique Sri Lanka underwater world where historical element blend perfectly with untouched underwater paradise and its wildlife.
Depart for your second dive in another site which will be decide at-site following the underwater current and weather. Last dive for this day but not least this is the place to see fish! Groupers, Gray Sharks, Tuna, Angelfishes, Rays, Giant Maori Wrasses (Napoleons),Snappers and millions of other denizens of the ocean. Undoubtedly for this 45min dive, the Basses are the foremost place to Do-Not-Miss dive in Sri Lanka.
By 10.30am, you will depart back to Kirinda. At your arrival, you will transfer vehicule to head off to your property.
What is Included?
Local bike guide , entrance fee of Polonnaruwa sites, individual bike
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
Mobile Phones Companies have booths in the arrivals area of Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport offer at the arrival Local SIM cards are cheap for unlocked phones.
Mobile coverage across Sri Lanka is good in built-up areas and cheap. You can get a SIM card that has data and voice credit for as low as Rs 700 with a domestic call cost of Rs 2 per minute.
Day 1 (D)
By 1.30pm, from the border of Maduru Oya NP, you will get on the road by jeep for about 40 min ride to reach the entrance of Maduru Oya National Park, take the time to relax and stretch your legs (the time to prepare access to the park) before continuing your adventure until 6pm. in one of the most beautiful national parks wild and less visited due to its remote location, having a huge reservoir surrounded by evergreen forest, landscapes of immense expanse of Savannah, without forgetting the very rare and endemic tree "vatica obscura", which the only species of Dipterocapaceae present in the dry area can be seen here. Open your eyes during this ride on a superb dusty or muddy road (depending on weather conditions), and observe the Asian elephant, the wild buffalo, the Jackal, lucky if a jungle cat, a Sri Leopard Lanka shows itself, several species of birds will appear along your way to illuminate the experience. At the end of the day, you will land at your camp located in the heart of the park, and after having set up the tents (do not forget your ground sheet and your sleeping bag), you will have the rest of the evening free to enjoy the unique location where you will spend the night over the gazing sky.
Day 2 (B-L)
Early this morning, by dawn you embark for a safari ride on dusty path across large landscape of Maduru Oya evergreen savanna. At any corner, be amazed to encounter some mammal like Asian elephant, golden chacal, wild buffalo and many others, be stunned to spotted large number of vagrant, resident and migrant birds. Back to the camp around 8am for breakfast in the middle of the wild before re-embark in your jeep for a safari to all the way to Maha Oya, where a lunch will be awaiting for you before leaving for your next destination
What is Included?
Return Boat transfer, full set equipment (snorkel, fins, mask)
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
Day 1 (L-D)
The trip starts by the Kalupahana Junction by 9am where after taking up a small up hill countryside road which after many corners, we will down your transportation to equip yourself with your necessity for today trek. After few minute walk and appreciate the view on the highest fall “The banbarakanda” in Sri Lanka, you will take the broken Road for the next 14 KM and about 6 hours walk (depend of your stamina). After the 2-3km walk, passing by Udaweriya & its original blue temple, get the chance to encounter native people and their smiles, we will bring school materials (pencil, booklet,…) to give to kids we will meet upon the hike. 5km later, the road travels through a split in the mountain, known as the Udaveriya Estate bypass. This place has a religious significance for people in the area, and you will notice a small altar as you pass through it. Before crossing some streams, the trail full of sharp bends ascending on the side of a mountain crested with tea plantation and their settlement workers village offer breath-taking sceneries. Reach the lodge around 4pm for you to take a coffee break and finally enjoy a stunning sunset overlooking the Udaveriya Estate and the edge of World End. After dinner, a night walk of 1 hr across the cloud forest around the lodge to try to spot some sleeping birds and some night mammals.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Early wake up and after a quick coffee, at 5hrs30 via road transfer, we will take the direction of the Starting point at the Conservation Office of the Horton Plain. By 6-6:30am, start 14km return way hiking up the mountain by a single overgrown trail most of the time cover by its high grass with several plateau. Pass through scenic grass plains, untouched cloud forests, mud steps, bogs & steep rocky way. Open your eyes during the hike on your surrounded for the scenery as well as the possibility to encounter various mammals as Sambar, Chevrotain, Wild Boar, Fishing Cat, Purple Faced Langur & large number of birds species as some rare and endemic as. Keeping ourself quiet enough might offer us the opportunity to see some of them. This unique hike will offer you to climb the second tallest (2388m) mountain in the country and it is also the tallest in Sri Lanka the public can hike. You should reach the submit around 8:30am, were a take away light breakfast will be appreciate at the peak all in completing the 360 degree scenic view. After lunch, we will take the return way to the starting point, where our transport will await for us to send us back to our lodge where you will take the rest of your afternoon to chill or even walk around the settlement.
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, we will get back on the road to your next destination. On the way out observe unique views of the World End and high hill mountain road offer breath-taking landscape.
This itinerary can be reverse following from where you will be coming from prior joining this adventure
Using Your Hands in Sri Lanka
Like many people in the world, Sri Lankans don't use cutlery, instead eating with the fingertips on their right hand. For travelers who don't want to do the same, most restaurants will offer cutlery if you ask politely. But don't cause a fuss – join in the fun!
It's polite to use your right hand when shaking hands or handing money and small objects to someone else. Of course, you can use both hands for something large and heavy.
Respecting Buddhist Culture in Sri Lanka
Buddhism is the main faith in Sri Lanka, and more than 70% of the population is Buddhist. The remaining population follow Hinduism, Islam or Christianity.
Never touch or pat the top of the head of a Buddhist monk, including young children at temples. As religious leaders of the community, they are to be respected.
Do not turn your back to (or be alongside) a statue of Buddha that is nearby. If in doubt, look at the behavior of the locals around you. This includes posing for photos; it's okay to take a photo of a statue, but anyone in the photo should be facing Buddha, not standing beside or with their back to the statue.
Don't wear any clothing that features Buddha or any other deity. It might be considered disrespectful and insensitive, could incur the wrath of authorities, possibly leading to arrest.
Always be polite to monks, offer them a seat if you're on a crowded bus (unless you're elderly or disabled). If you're entering a temple, cover your shoulders and legs, and remove footwear and headwear before heading inside. The same attire rules apply to Hindu temples. You should also, always remove your shoes before entering someone's home.
Social Etiquette Tips in Sri Lanka
Public displays of affection (PDA), such as kissing and/or hugging, may be frowned upon. In Sri Lanka, PDA is considered to be private behavior but is generally acceptable at functions and establishments for adults (such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties). Allowances are made for travelers, and holding hands and affection between parents and their children are allowed.
Public nudity is illegal in Sri Lanka. So, if you were hoping to skinny dip and sunbathe nude or topless, stick to the private beach resorts which allow it (but ask first to avoid embarrassment).
LGBTQ travelers should be aware that same-sex relations are still illegal in Sri Lanka.
Our best advice? Behave as the locals do, learning from them is the best way to avoid offending someone, and potentially getting into trouble.
Day 1 (D) Bodhinagala Forest Hermitage Bird Walk - Sinharaja National Park
Very early this morning after your breakfast at your property located in Negombo or Colombo, by 5.00am, you will depart in direction to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and on the way, we head 1h30min to 2h drive to Bodhinagala Forest Hermitage, nestling on the bank of the Kalu Ganga, this natural rainforest shields the buddhist hermitage from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, providing a serene environment for the meditating monks. Build up by amazing patch of wilderness complete with gentle slopes, crafting ridges and peaks shelter the Bodhinagala Monastery and some endemic creatures as the rare & shy Green-billed Coucal, Yellow-Fronted Barbet without forgotten the most visible mammals as Wildboar, Purple-faced Leaf, Toque Monkeys and Grizzled Indian Squirrel. After this stop over we will get back on the road for Sinharaja and its rainforest. At your arrival at your lodge set up at the border of the most untouched rainforest, proceed to your check in, take a time for resting or enjoy the scenery and location offered by this property, rest of the night free & easy.
Night in a Sinharaja Rainforest Lodge (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted:The place to be to see the most of the endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka, up your head up and get the luck to encounter them... Some Endemic: Ceylon Spurfowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Black-capped Bulbul, Spot-winged Thrush
Day 2 (B-L-D) Sinharaja National Park Endemic Birding & Wildlife Walk - Udawalawe National Park
Perfect Biosphere Reserve declarer Unesco World Heritage in 1988. Being the most important biodiversity site in the whole Sri Lanka (also internationally important for Tropical Biodiversity). Famous for its birds waves, Sinharaja comprises Lowland & Submontane wet evergreen forest with Submontane Patana Grasslands in the East. A staggering 64% of the tree species are endemic to Sri Lanka. Numerous Orchids & Pitcher plants are currently seen.
Early morning, after your early breakfast depart for a walk all the way to late lunch into the Rainforest of Sinharaja to spot endemic birds as well as wildlife. Pass through large path, river side & jungle incursion to venture yourself into the heart of this untouched rainforest which is only 21 km (13 mi) from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km (4.3 mi) from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Because of the dense vegetation, wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry-zone national parks such as Yala. There are about 3 elephants, and 15 or so leopards. The most common larger mammal is the endemic purple-faced langur, huge varieties of birds (with the highest number of endemic) also interesting mixed of Amphibians & Reptiles.
You will be back to your lodge for late lunch, you will get the rest of your free time for you to walk around the Tea Field at the border of the Rainforest where more birds can be sport during sunset.
Night at Bush Camp Site (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted:The place to be to see the most of the endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka, up your head up and get the luck to encounter them... Some Endemic: Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Junglefowl, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Ceylon Hanging-Parrot, Layard’s Parakeet, red Faced Malkoha, Green-Billed Coucal, Serendib Scop-sowl, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Samll Barbet, Greater Fameback, Black-Capped Bulbul, Spot-Winged Thrush, Ceylon Rufous & Brown-Scapped Babbiers, Ashy-Headed Laughinthrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, White-faced Starling, Ceylon Hill Myna, Ceylon Scaly Thrush, Ceylon Scimitar Babbler & Ceylon Drongo, and many more birds species can be spotted
Day 3 (B-L-D) 4x4 Udawalawe National Park Wildlife Sunrise Safari - 4x4 Yala National Park Wildlife Sunset Safari
Very early this morning, by 5am, you will embark into a 3-4hrs Sunrise 4x4 journey within Udalawale National Park recognize for its number of elephants hearses living in the permises.From the time you will be introduce inside this amazing open grassland savannah, loads of birds will be able to spot especially close to the reservoir without forgotten the possibility to spot crocodile too. During your ide, you will encounter individual as well as hearses of elephants from baby to old mammal which can be spot easily. By 10am, you will head back to your property in Udalawale. for breakfast.
At your arrival at a lost location by the border of Yala, you will be change vehicule to a 4x4 before drive you top the camp (about 10min drive). At you arrival at the camp, after process of your check in into one of your glamping tent, enjoy a delicious lunch and receive a short briefing as well as an introduction of your adventure & the camp. You will get at least 30 min break for you to walk around the camp to spot some Birds, just take a nap or even enjoy the campsite and its surrounding.
By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP where you could spot Sri Lankan elephant, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, wild water buffalo but more than other to be able to spot wildly the Leopard. we will try to avoid the block crowded (Block 1 main entrance which is also the most populated by Leopard) by 4x4 and going to those remote where also wildlife remind wild not yet used to jeep. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Night at Bush Camp Site (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Spot-billed pelican, Little cormorant, Grey heron, Indian pond heron, Cattle egret, Great egret, Little egret, Intermediate egret, Painted stork, Woolly-necked stork, Yellow-wattled lapwing, Green bee-eater, Crested treeswift and many more... Some Endemic: Sri Lankan junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka green pigeon, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka woodshrike and Sri Lanka Swallow.
Day 4 (B-L-D) 4x4 Yala National Park Wildlife Sunrise Safari - Beach time between unawatuna & Tangalle
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast then by 10am.
After your breakfast, at 10 am, you will take the direction of your beach property between Mirissa & Tangalle (Unawatuna/Weligama/Matara/Talalla/Dikwella). Along the way, we will stop at an archaeological site, the Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, where you will climb to the top of this mountain where numerous temples (7 temples exactly) to allow you to understand the deep culture of Sri Lanka, have been established in different point of the ascent. At its summit enjoy a breathtaking view of the region. On your return, we will take the road to your final destination of the day. Rest of the evening free
Night in Downsouth Beach Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Spot-billed pelican, Little cormorant, Grey heron, Indian pond heron, Cattle egret, Great egret, Little egret, Intermediate egret, Painted stork, Woolly-necked stork, Yellow-wattled lapwing, Green bee-eater, Crested treeswift and many more... Some Endemic: Sri Lankan junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka green pigeon, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka woodshrike and Sri Lanka Swallow.
Day 5 (B-L) Morning Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching Safari (ONLY AVAILABLE BETWEEN DECEMBER TO APRIL) ou Matinee libre (MAY TO NOVEMBER) - Colombo Airport
(From December to April ONLY) Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, we will check out, then you leave for the port of Mirissa where you will have the possibility of recovering your catamaran to embark on a cruise of approximately 7 hours researching whales and dolphins in order to be able to meet them in their natural habitat. By 6.30 am departure towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast including fresh fruit, when whales are sighted guests are invited to the bow and upper decks for the best viewing of these incredible creatures. After enjoying the whales, you will head towards Weligama Bay where the yatch anchors near the Snake & Trapobane Islands, perfect setting to enjoy swimming, paddle, snorkeling and getting your lunch before getting back to the port of Mirissa.
OR
(From May to November ONLY) After your breakfast, you will be free and easy to enjoy your property, the beach around until the time for departure.
At your arrival, get into your vehicule to take the direction to Colombo International Airport (if your flight happen to be night time, we will have the time to make a stop to Galle for a city tour of the old town)
If you desire to spend an additional night at your beach property for you to take some more time to chill and enjoy your adventure as you are not rushing back home, please let us know we will be glad to make it happen for you.
TO YOUR ATTENTION: Please make sure to book your flight depart from Colombo after 8.00pm
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Colombo, Flowers for ladies, fresh coconut for each traveler, bottled water, ice box with couple of local beers each, Sri Lankan roasted cashew snack pack, Authentic Sri Lankan tasting snack/bites. Entrance fees for the locations we take you, Tradition Sri Lankan meal with mix different tasty dishes, umbrella and rain ponchos (available), hand towels, pocket tissues, hand sanitizing and first aid kit, hotspot if you need from our drivers
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Gileemale, proceed to your check in and discover your mansion which it is one of the three remaining two storied mansions in the whole of Ratnapura District which was built during the time of two generations. By 4pm, embark for a walk in the heart of the village and its surroundings for your first foray, you will be surprise by the natural galore between all type of plantations, encounter the locals on your way around and venture into a 17st century temple. The rest of your evening will be free.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Very early in the morning before sunrise and before your breakfast, we will adventure in the rubber plantation to experience the direct process from its trees of the collection of the precious white liquid which will surely coagulate before bringing to the smoked rubber sheet manufacture.
Return to your property for your breakfast and a short rest before getting of the path for an a neighboring tea plantation where you will work with the locals collecting the Sri Lankan Gold "Tea Leaf", we will continue to learn the full finishing process in visiting the tea making factory where your leaves will be processed. Return to your property for your lunch and a moment of rest. At the end of the afternoon, we will meet at the Cinnamon Plantation to have our final Agri experience in practicing the collection of the reddish bark "Cinnamon Stick" After this very active day, you will have the rest of your evening free
Day 3 (B)
At Wee Hours, for those who want to wake up early and observe large variety of Birds , Grab your camera & lenses gears, join us into a Bird Walk in the vicinity of our property After your breakfast, pack up everything, farewell the team who took good care of you, before getting back on the road for new adventures
The property
The Vayu Resort is mainly a kitesurfing retreat in one of the most remote dune land of Sri Lanka, just sit in front of the Adam Bridge offering some of the most incredible sunset Sri Lanka could offer.
The protected sandbanks of surrounded The Vayu are well-known for strong winds and as a sanctuary for numerous migratory birds pure paradise for all level of ornitholgists with countless species that can be spotted from your verandah! and all around Mannar Peninsular. The particularity of this unique property will be to be able to combine Kitesurf as well as Birding. If you are a family of children in their very active adolescence, everyone could find activities they could desire to do.
Superb Kite Vibes in a rustic location with lots of care and attention to detail. We offer simple Western and Local food. The local food reflects the different culture and cuisine that’s found in the North of Sri Lanka.
Accommodation
The Vayu Resort wooden cabanas have been designed having studied our locations in Kalpitiya. We have 12 bungalows and 8 tents – so the camp will be pretty exclusive. Each wooden bungalow has been elevated to give you a nice view of the ocean and clearance from the sand that can fly due to high winds. We have included a 2 to 4-bed option making the bungalows suitable for groups of friends and families.
The open-air washroom gives you a novel experience: shower under the stars! A verandah has been included for you to relax in privacy. All bungalows will be stand-alone and will have mosquito nets.
Each bungalow is a short walk from the Adam’s Bridge and surrounded by nature.
Deluxe Bungalow (1-4 pax) Only 6 bungalows
Enjoy the dune sand surrounded at walking distance of the Indian Ocean you can appreciate from your terrace. All the Deluxe bungalows are wooden built, offer Twin or Double Bed(s) with FAN only, have a private open air bathroom and toilets.
Purified water, coffee and tea,
Uninterrupted power supply,
Free WIFI,
Free kitegear storage (For Kiter ONLY)
Free boat rescues and help on the beach (For Kiter ONLY)
Garden Bungalow (1-3 pax) Only 6 bungalows
Enjoy the beauty of the ocean and the beach from your terrace.
All the Garden bungalows (concrete built) offer Twin or Double Bed(s) with FAN only, have a private open air bathroom & toilets
Purified water, coffee and tea,
Uninterrupted power supply,
Free WIFI,
Free kitegear storage (For Kiter ONLY)
Free boat rescues and help on the beach (For Kiter ONLY)
Tent (1-4 pax) Only 8 Tents
Tented accommodation ideal for budget Travelers & Backpackers.
Big, comfortable and fully equiped with a common washroom.
Purified water, coffee and tea,
Uninterrupted power supply,
Free WIFI,
Free kitegear storage (For Kiter ONLY)
Free boat rescues and help on the beach (For Kiter ONLY)
Cuisine
Food in Mannar is influenced by both Sri Lankan and Indian Cuisine. You will enjoy the best quality simple & food. We take pride in preparing healthy meals for our guests and we make sure healthy balanced diet is available for vegetarians and meat eaters.
Try traditional Sri Lankan food, including hoppers, string hoppers, lamprais, pittu, kottu, rotti and of course rice and curry. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its spicy food, but if you prefer milder dishes you will have plenty of choice, including a range of meats/ seafood, barbecue, salads and fresh fruit juices.
Our buffet option will also include lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.
You will although enjoy some european cuisine and we can provide no-spicy meals if requested.
Facilities & Services
For all, kiters and non kiters we provide a vast range of free activities maximizing in quality and diversity ! If some day you feel that you want to do something different, it will be our pleasure to help and guide you!
Kiteschool & Kite clinics, with our team of passionate and qualified instructors, you are sure to make great progress in kitesurf during your stay at the Vayu kitecamp.
Yoga, the choice of thinking, it’s a life style. With the yoga techniques we can unit our mind body and spirit. Yoga allows us to experience a deep emotional awareness and meet our true nature.
Massage, is a great option for your holidays. Specially after a long day birding or kiteboarding sessions. Qualified therapists prevent muscle ache and can relax muscular tension with a massage.
Stand Up Paddle along the Adams Bridge. Take a little time to discover and explore the beauty of Mannar on a Stand Up Paddle. It can be practice on the ocean in front of the Vayu camp (Free of charge for guest unguided)
Self-guided Village Cycle, we can provide a map (Free of charge for Vayu guests)
Guides
Our in-house Ornithologist will bring you along looking for the most birds possible during your time her - Combine group 1:10
3D2N
Day 1 (L-D)
At Arugam Bay, proceed to change vehicule to 4x4 and from the asphalt to the dust road passing by the Kudumbigala Sancturary where villager & wildlife live in perfect harmony urrounded by lagoons, padi field mix with bushes. Get the lush to walk toward a current Buddhism complex before enter to Kumana National Park until you get to your camp (around 2-4hrs driving), during this drive, open your eyes and observe all wildlife and birlife can be encounter. Upon arrival at the Camp, proceed to your check in your tent, then enjoy an home made lunch (depend of your arrival). After lunch take some time to chill and appreciate the camp site, before by 3pm joining an afternoon game drive of 3hrs ride on divers dusty roads Kumana could offer. By sundown, you will drive baco to the camp, were your dinner under stars and surrounded by oil lamps & Bonfire will be served. Take the time to commune with the nature and the people you are with. Your rest of your night will be free and easy. (No night walk will be allowed outside of the camp due to possible wildlife around).
Day 2 (PNB-L-D)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:30am) enjoy some coffee & tea (around 5:30am), you will then depart at 6am for a 3hrs morning drive where you will embark yourself into a 4x4 in others roads Kumana offers for you to be able to spot the morning crowded which some species can be only seen during sunrise time. Get the opportunity to walk into the wild and reach Bambaragasthalawa Ancient Temple (name given by the huge trees around the sacred site holding Bambara giant bee hives) which owned a giant reclining Buddha unfortunately has been damaged due to various acts of vandalism and nature as well as other caves close by where numerous rock inscriptions can be seen. Those caves night time are refuge to sloth bear, leopard has it wont be a surprise to see some poop and foot step on those species. Back to the camp for lunch. Take some time off after your lunch to enjoy the camp and its surrounded or even rest, before by 3pm depart for another 3hrs game drive to reach others area of the park and being able to see more unique wildlife. Back to the camp for under the stars dinner. Rest of the evening and night free and easy.
Day 3 (B or PNB)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:30am enjoy your breakfast, then packed up, you will then depart at 6.30am for a 3hrs morning drive and explore new road especially the coastal road where most of the bird life happening and get some more luck to spot more wildlife, then we will take the dust road back to Arugam bay where your transport will be awaiting for you to leave for your next destination.
OR
2D1N
Day 1 (L-D)
At Arugam Bay, proceed to change vehicule to 4x4 and from the asphalt to the dust road passing by the Kudumbigala Sancturary where villager & wildlife live in perfect harmony surrounded by lagoons, padi field mix with bushes. Get the lush to walk toward a current Buddhism complex before enter to Kumana National Park until you get to your camp (around 2-4hrs driving), during this drive, open your eyes and observe all wildlife and birdlife can be encounter. Upon arrival at the Camp, proceed to your check in your tent, then enjoy an home made lunch (depend of your arrival). After lunch take some time to chill and appreciate the camp site, before by 3pm joining an afternoon game drive of 3hrs ride on divers dusty roads Kumana could offer. By sundown, you will drive baco to the camp, were your dinner under stars and surrounded by oil lamps & Bonfire will be served. Take the time to commune with the nature and the people you are with. Your rest of your night will be free and easy. (No night walk will be allowed outside of the camp due to possible wildlife around)
Day 2 (B)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:30am) enjoy some coffee & tea (around 5:30am), you will then depart at 6am for a 3hrs morning drive where you will embark yourself into a 4x4 in others roads Kumana offers for you to be able to spot the morning crowded which some species can be only seen during sunrise time. Get the opportunity to walk into the wild and reach Bambaragasthalawa Ancient Temple (name given by the huge trees around the sacred site holding Bambara giant bee hives) which owned a giant reclining Buddha unfortunately has been damaged due to various acts of vandalism and nature as well as other caves close by where numerous rock inscriptions can be seen. Those caves night time are refuge to sloth bear, leopard has it wont be a surprise to see some poop and foot step on those species. Back to the camp for breakfast, then you will packed up for us to depart back to Arugam bay where your transport will be awaiting for you to leave for your next destination.
What is Included?
Return three seater Cessna 172 aircraft transfer from Koggala Airport
What is Excluded?
All Drinks non alcoholic, Alcoholic will be prohibited during flight (participant under the influence of alcohol wont be permitted to fly)
Day 1 (L-D) Negombo - Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary - Nawadankulama Tank - The Mudhouse - Night Walk
Very early this morning after your breakfast at your property located in Negombo, by 5.00am, you will depart in direction to the Mudhouse and on the way, we head 1hr30min drive to Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, unknown of outside of bird watching circles. Indeed, driving past the sanctuary along the main road you would have no idea it was there if you were not pre-informed, despite the fact that it is technically a National Park protected by the Wildlife Department. So special is the fact that it sits at a point where three very distinct eco-systems collide, bordering the coast is also flanked by mangroves and fresh water lakes. This results in a huge diversity of resident and migratory species of animals and birds. Indeed, there are over 150 species of birds known to inhabit & nest the sanctuary. Take your gear out then spend the whole morning birding around reservoir
After this First Birding stop-over, you will take your final destination (The Mudhouse), on our way we will do the second and last stop over at the Nawadankulama Tank which has been reckon by Professor Sarath Kotagama, a well known ornithologist in Sri Lanka as an un-frequent birds site to be experience in his book “ Common Birds of Sri Lanka”, here can sight more birds as some migrant ducks, dove and some more (depend of the weather we will get when we will be there), then finally reach The Mudhouse where you will be free & easy to relax or by yourself walk around the property for you to spot further more species of resident, vagrant or migrant birds. By 4.00pm, join with our naturalist guide for a sunset bird walk outside the compound of your property by a loake or reservoir where multiple species of birds can be spotted and enjoy stunning sunset. Before or After your dinner, you will depart for 1hr night walk to try spot Slender Loris, the giant Squirrel or some night bird as Jerdon's Nightjar
Night at The Mudhouse in one of the House (depending their availability)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Jerdon's Leafbird, Jerdon's Nightjar, Purple Heron, Red-Vented Bulbul, Green Imperial Pigeon, Purple Sunbird, Asian Koel, Yellow-eyed Babbler, few type of Egret & cormorant and many more ... Some endemic as: Ceylon Woodshrike, Ceylon Junglefowl ...
Day 2 (B-L-D) 10h 4x4 Game Drive across Wilpattu National Park
The largest of Sri Lanka’s national parks at 1,085 square kilometres, Wilpattu National Park (Land of Lakes) is now enjoying a renaissance following the declaration of peace in the country; opening its doors to visitors again after 17 years of closure, with a new visitor centre established in 2003. Before visitor numbers fully return to Wilpattu (it was at one point the most visited of all Sri Lanka’s parks), it remains a relatively uncrowded and unhurried park filled with a network of ‘Villu’ reservoirs, dense scrub jungle and grass-covered clearings. The unspoil seclusion of the park make it ideal for those looking for peaceful safari experience away from the crowd found in other area.
Very early in the morning (around 5.00am), you will depart for about 1hr30 transfer to Wilpattu National Park, from where you will change vehicule to enter the park with a 4x4 jeep, you will enter into one of the most amazing & one of the oldest National Park in Sri Lanka, the whole day about 10hrs you will ride the dust roads passing by reservoirs and magical forests in chess to encouter mutliple wildlife as Chacal, Fox, Elephants, horde of Wild Buffalos, Wildboars, Deers, various types of Monkeys, huge varieties of birds as well as if luck is with us Leopard and Sloth Bear. Enjoy an astonishing sunset before heading back to the Mudhouse
Night at The Mudhouse in one of the House (depending their availability)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Waterfowl - Little Grebe, Pintail, Garganey Common, Cresced Serpent-Eagle, Purple Heron, Great Thick-Knee, Orange-Breasted Green-Pigeon, White-Browed Bulbul, White Ibis, Little Cormoran and many more ... Some Endemic: Ceylon Green-Pigeon, Ceylon Red-Backed Woodpecker ...
Day 3 (B-L-D) Reservoir Sunrise Bird Walk around The Mudhouse - Thanthirimale Rajamaha Viharaya - Mannar Peninsular & Sunset Bird Ride & Walk
Early morning, If you are up get into a 2h sunrise walk in the vinicity of your property where can be spotted multiples local tropical resident morning birds (let us know the night during dinner the day before if you want to join or not). Back to your property for breakfast. By 9.00am, we depart for Mannar Peninsular & your property (transfer about 4h-5h drive). We will use remote & alternative road which bring use close by the Sri Lankan original way of life. Quick stop over to the long lost ‘Panduvasdewu Nuwara’ legendary kingdom of King Panduwasdewa known by local pilgrim as Thanthirimale Rajamaha Viharaya where can be seen the Samadhi and reclining Buddha statues carved from the large rocks established near the Bodhi shows characteristics of the late Anuradhapura period. Walking with your gear around this stunning complex which own water ponds to sight residents & water birds. Then get back on the road for your final destination Mannar Peninsular, they could have multiple stop on the way depend what can be sight.
At your arrival at your retreat set in the Mannar Peninsular, please proceed to your check in. Depending of your arrival time, if before 3pm,then got on the road or by foot for 3h of birding (the location will depend where birds has been spotted) around your retreat by the beach area as well as by the road side where small water container has been formed, multiple flock of Painted Stork, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Billed Tropicbird, little cormoran and many more can be seen. Back to your retreat around 6.30pm for everyone to enjoy your dinner and free & easy evening.
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Black Drongo, Black-Hooded Orioile, Cormoran, Little/Intermediate/Great Egret, Indian Pond Heron, Black-Winged Stilt, Indian Courser many more ... Some Migrant: Red-Billed Tropicbird, Western Reef-Heron, Northern Pintail, Pintail Snipe, Sharp-Tailed Sandpiper ...
Day 4 (B-L-D) Around Mannar Peninsular
After your breakfast, we will depart for Birding Island Chasing. As Mannar is a long strip surrounded by the sea & we will goes around diverse sights where armada of birds or specific birds can be spotted as well as experience breathtaking sceneries, we could be surprise too to encounter loner Golden Jackal crossing some lagoon or some donkey too. Early this morning, we could get going to Periyar Kalapuwa (lagoon) to look for for Common Teal, hundred of Showellers, Wigeon, Garganey. this plain is also good to sight Harriers. Crossing the lagoon to explore the Vankalai Lagoons marine area which is one of the best places in sri lanka for bird watching during migratory bird season. Lots of birds can be seen in shallow waters by the side of the road including greater flamingos if we are lucky. Multiple Birds can be seen by the side of Punarin road, Thalaimannar road including saltern and Madawachchiya road. Anytime we could stop on the way if we spotted any specific species.
By 1pm, back to your retreat to enjoy your lunch and taking a break for anyone want to chill or if you feel still energize by yourself get to the beach area to see what birds can be seen.
By 3.30pm, we could be going to the Adam Bridge area & Talaimannar where its lighthouse & fishing port can encounter some flocks of Gulls gathering with Heuglin's & Palla's Gulls or we could be going to some lagoon where birds has been spotted. Surely on our way we could be making some stop depend what we can encounter. Back to your retreat for dinner. Rest of your evening free & easy.
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Hoopoe, Painted-Stork, Eurasasian Collared-Dove, Tricoloured Munia, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Rufus-Rumped Shrike, Bya Weaver Kestrel ... Some Migrant: Pink Flamingo, Greater Flamingo, Barn Swallow, Blue-Tailed Bee-Eater, Different Gulls type ...
BE ADVISE: Itinerary based on locations / sites visited may vary on daily basis dependent upon the density of species and individuals where the birds are; distance to sites may range from a couple of kms away to as much as 50 kms away from your property.
Day 5 (B-L-D) Manna Peninsular - Jaffna - Sunset Jaffna Birding Ridge
Early morning for 3h depart for another sunrise bird sight on the road or by foot (depend where birds can been spotted. Back to your property for breakfast and check out before getting back on the road to Jaffna (about 3h drive). On the way depend what we can sight we will do some birding stop-over. At your arrival in Jaffna, proceed to your check in before headingt to Jaffna Bridge & some part of its lagoons to encounter multiple migrant birds, fisherman at work & stunning sunset. Back to your property for your dinner and enjoy the top roof of your property.
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Golden-Backed Woodpecker, Black-Headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Lesser-Whistling Duck, Lesse Pied Kingfisher ... Some Migrant: Glossy Ibis, Northern Pintail, Lesser Flamingo, Greater Flamingo, Black-Tailed Godwit, Pied-Advocet, and more ...
Day 6 (B-L-D) All Around Jaffna between Kayts Island & Valukkairaru Rd, Karainagar Causeway,
Early this morning, depart a full birding day in starting by another 3h sunrise bird sight by the road and by foot (depend where birds has been spotted), adding some superb photoshoot on the colorful Mankumpan pillaiyar kovil surrounded by water reservoir and multiple birds. Back to the city for grabbing your breakfast in a local restaurant. Before getting back on the road for another ride until late lunch. If schedule permitted, we could be going to Vallai Bridge or on Jaffna Bridge for sunset. Rest of your evening free & easy.
Day 7 (B) Sunrise Birding around
Early this morning, depart a 3h sunrise bird sight by the road and by foot (depend where birds has been spotted and ) before getting back to your property for your breakfast before checking out
BE ADVISE: Itinerary based on locations / sites visited may vary on daily basis dependent upon the density of species and individuals where the birds are; distance to sites may range from a couple of kms away to as much as 50 kms away from your property.
Day 1 (L-D)
Upon arrival at the Mudhouse, proceed to your check in, you will enjoy a local lunch. After your lunch, in keeping with the local concept, grab our bikes which are more ‘Iron Horse’ than ‘Tour de France’, yet they are more than ample for the kind of light exploration we tend to do here. The land around The Mudhouse is predominantly flat an ideal for exploring by peddle power, to ride all the way to predominant places such as the Paramakanda temple and Tonigala rock (Stunning Scenery at its top). Many of the nearby villages and lakes can also be reached on the ride. At end of afternoon, chill at your mudhouse, and enjoy amazing local delicacies in a full natural atmosphere. After your diner, embark in 1hr night walk to spot some sleeping birds, some mammals and also the endemic Red Slow Loris (no guarantee to see)
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Very early in the morning (around 5am-5:30am), you will depart for 1hr30 transfer to Wilpattu National Park, from where you will change vehicule to enter the park with a 4x4 jeep from where you will enter into one of the most amazing National Park in Sri Lanka, the whole day about 12hrs you will ride the dust roads passing by reservoirs and magical forests in chess to encouter multiple wildlife as Chacal, Fox, Elephant, horde of Wild Buffalos, Wildboar, Monkeys, huge varieties of birds as well as if luck is with us Leopard and Bear. Enjoy an astonishing sunset before heading back to the Mudhouse, where a delicious dinner will await for you and finally you will get the time to rest and enjoy a night sky full of stars.
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, pack up everything, farewell the team who took good care of you, before getting back on the road for new adventures
Day 1 (---)Colombo Tuktuk City & Food Tour Transfer from Colombo International airport to downtown Colombo where upon arrival in your property, you will proceed to your check in. In the middle of your afternoon, embark for an exiting & fun exploration of the city of Colombo for 2-3 hours of traffic sensation with multiple culinary & cultural experiences, human encounters without forgotten to live in the massive traffic jam. Hope the weather will be with you to enjoy the superb Sunset at the seafront.
Night in Colombo City Center (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your city property)
Day 2 (B-L-D) Canyoning in Kitulgala Early morning & after your breakfast, we will get on the road to Kitulgala river (about 3-4h drive). Arrival at your lodge which is located at the river front around 11h and 12h for lunch. After your lunch, set off for a mini trail or enter the jungle for about 30 min before equipping yourself and following the safety instructions so that you can venture out for 2 hours of Canyoning inside the Kitulgala Gorges, chills during the descent have fun in perspective Back to camp, where you can relax and unwind, the rest of the day free and easy Night in a camp by the river 2* (Open Window Wooden Chalet queen / twin beds) - Fixed property
Day 3 (B-L-D)Rafting in the heart of the Peak Wilderness sanctuary and Adam's Peak Night Hike
After your breakfast, you will leave for a morning rafting for a maximum of 2 hours of descent feeling through the tropical forest of the foothills of the Sanctuary of peak wilderness (depending on the water level). When you return to camp, pack your bags without delay, then enjoy your lunch before departing for Nallathanniya. At your arrival at your property, proceed to your check in before having the rest of the afternoon free & easy for you to walk around by yourself or taking sometime to rest before the night hike.
Night in mountain property at the feet of the mountain surrounded by tea field (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your Mountain Tea Field area property)
Day 4 (B-L-D) Adam's Peak 6KM Night Hike & Local Train Ride crossing some part of the Hill Country
By 2am, depart for the summit of the Adam's Peak Hollistic summit by the Hatton Road, one of the most prestigious places in Sri Lanka for Buddhists, located at the site of Sri Sumana Saman Deva on the top of this mountain with the feet of Sri Gautama Buddha (about 6-8h climb up & down). Get to the top for the first sun rays to enbright on the rocky top & its mountains surrounded offering un-usual gorgeous and beautiful scene.
Back to your property for late breakfast, then depart for Hatton Train Station where you will embark on an astonishing train journey (about 2h journey ride) crossing amazing landscapes towards the village of Oliya where on your arrival we will get on a tuk tuk for 30min ride to your mountain lodge set at the feet of the famous World's End. After your check in, take the rest of your day & evening free & easy.
Night in 2* Mountain Lodge (Standard Room queen/twin beds) - Fixed property, only one property in the whole area
TO YOUR ATTENTION: Train seats are always very limited, make the booking the earliest as possible to get the chance to have train ticket. if by any change, the train transfer from Hatton to Ohiya cannot be made, we will proceed the transfer via road
Day 5 (B-PNL-D) Trek from the foothills of the World End to the Bambarakanda waterfall 12KM Down Hill & Glamping in Yala National Park 5:30 am, wake up very early to have your breakfast, then at 6:30 am join with one Village Trekker leader the 12KM Down Hill Trek along the foothill of the World's End (about 4-6 hours of walking) by the path used by tea plantation workers and cross their villages while observing breathtaking panoramas. After this long descent, take the time to cool off in Sri Lanka's highest waterfall, the "Bambarakanda Fall" (263m), where you can relax at its feet for a break. (Simple picnic lunch on the way). We will take again the road to Yala National Park where some of the largest amount of Wildlife can be spot in Sri Lanka with the possibility of observing in their natural habitat Asiam Elephant, Sloath Bear, Sri Lankan Leopard, Crocodiles, Wild Buffalo, Deer, Wildboars, Toque Macaques, Grey Langur, as well as a multitude of exotic resident and or migratory birds. Arrival at the Glamping Camp, hopefully just right for the sunset over the Indian Ocean surrounded by sand dune & bush. Rest of your evening free & easy Night in a Bush camp in the bufferzone of Yala National Park - (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your camp property)
Day 6 (B-L-D) - 4x4 Safari morning & Afternoon Safari in the heart of Yala National Park (Block 1 Kataragama Entrance & Block 5 ONLY)
An early morning wake up as by 5:00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for a 3hrs sunrise 4x4 drive into Yala NP for you to explore another area who will offer you wonders to spot and observe. You will be back at the camp site for a Sri Lankan breakfast time from there you will have free time until lunch, you can spend by relaxing by your tent or on the beach, reading a (wildlife) book, bird watching in the area of the camp or even joining one of our Sri Lankan cooking classes.
By 3pm, we will depart for your 2nd Sunset 4x4 3hrs Game Drive into the National Park in chess to spot of course the famous Leopard, as well as all others species can be spotted during this 3hrs of games.Back to the camp for dinner time. Rest of your evening will be free and easy Night in a Bush camp in the bufferzone of Yala National Park - (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your camp property)
Day 7 (B-L-D) Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya - Beach time between unawatuna & Tangalle After your breakfast, at 10 am, you will take the direction of your beach property between Mirissa Y Tangalle (Unawatuna/Weligama/Matara/Talalla/Dikwella). Along the way, we will stop at an archaeological site, the Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, where you will climb to the top of this mountain where numerous temples (7 temples exactly) to allow you to understand the deep culture of Sri Lanka, have been established in different point of the ascent. At its summit enjoy a breathtaking view of the region. On your return, we will take the road to your final destination of the day. Rest of the evening free
Night in Downsouth Beach Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Day 8: (B-L) - Morning Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching Safari - Colombo Airport Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, we will check out, then you leave for the port of Mirissa where you will have the possibility of recovering your catamaran to embark on a cruise of approximately 7 hours researching whales and dolphins in order to be able to meet them in their natural habitat. By 6.30 am departure towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast including fresh fruit, when whales are sighted guests are invited to the bow and upper decks for the best viewing of these incredible creatures. After enjoying the whales, you will head towards Weligama Bay where the yatch anchors near the Snake & Trapobane Islands, perfect setting to enjoy swimming, paddle, snorkeling and getting your lunch before getting back to the port of Mirissa.
At your arrival, get into your vehicule to take the direction to Colombo International Airport (if your flight happen to be night time, we will have the time to make a stop to Galle for a city tour of the old town)
If you desire to spend an additional night at your beach property for you to take some more time to chill and enjoy your adventure as you are not rushing back home, please let us know we will be glad to make it happen for you
TO YOUR ATTENTION: Please make sure to book your flight depart from Colombo after 8.00pm
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, your host will provide all carving and painting materials & tools
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks, snack
Day 1 (L-D)
Meet by 10am at Kitulgala. Check in at the longhouse to the river side camp and meet the team who will provide you an introduction of the expedition day by day. After lunch, develop the necessary skills necessary for taking on this jungle river. wE will be fitting you up with your boat choice which can range from open canoe, sit on top kayaks, inflatable kayaks and options to ride as an active passenger on our Cataraft. We will paddle some white water as the team develops skills such as; white water paddling, river safety, and camp craft. We will return to the long house (dorm type) for a video session then proceed to your dinner before chilling in our Long House. Be aware the night will be short as the next day you will depart by 5amThe drive from Borderlands to Mahiyanganaya is around 5 hours. We plan to depart Borderlands in the early morning around 5 AM.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
By 4.30am, get a light breakfast before we depart with the team for a 5 hour drive to the Mahaweli river put in. After we arrive we have a packed lunch and pack the rafts and canoes for the river journey. WE will paddle around 4 hours to our first camp just inside the national park. We leave behind the sadly exploited section of the Mahaweli with its severely damaged river banks due to excessive sand mining. The transformation of the river from sand mining pit to wilderness jungle is a massive and welcomed change. After 4 hours we reach the edge of the park, our first rapids and a camp site on jungle sand beaches untouched by the sand miners. We set up camp on the edge of Wasgamuwa National Park, on a deserted river beach. We have plenty of snack breaks, and we can make time for a game of cricket or Frisbee on the beach before darkness falls. We gather all our own wood for the evening campfire, which is kept going throughout the night as protection against possible elephant forays! The sound of the jungle at night, a BBQ dinner and a plan for a early morning departure as the river safari begins.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
An early start as we enter Wasgamuwa NP, which spans the left bank of the river today, with the buffer zone river right. It’s a full day paddling through the park, silent apart from the calls of birds, including raptors, hornbills and peacocks, monkeys and the buzzing of insects. With luck we’ll catch a glimpse of sunning crocodiles and thirsty elephants. It’s rare to see people and the solitude is priceless. We will have a number of rapids to manage. We again set our sights on a deserted river beach camp which is in view of an elephant corridor , a jungle route for elephants crossing the river. In the past we have found elephant bones and witnessed bulls sparing as herds of up to 100 elephants have crossed the river within site of our camp. Dinner under the stars, a chance to share stories, relive the day’s adventure and fall into a deep slumber. Fires are kept burning all night and guides take turns keeping watch over the camp, its simply a breathtaking location.
Day 4 (B)
The last day’s paddle is usually a slow departure – We are often awaken to the sound of elephants making there way back across the river at dawn. An early morning canoe safari is the best way to watch this parade of wild elephants making this crossing. The river widens as we leave Wasgamuwa behind, This section is an excellent area to view crocodiles on the beaches sunning themselves after a long night in the cool waters. The topography levels out and the dense jungle gives way to farmland. The sand mining again picks up until we see nothing but lines of boats along the river banks mining the river sand which is used to fuel the transformation of a developing nation. We reach our final destination by lunch time. All the gear is loaded and cleaned and we will depart for our next destination.
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your villa. Get a debrief of the property and all its activities. When you are ready get to the Kitesurfing shop to meet your instructor & try out your equipment for the next day, get all the details of your Kitesurfing Program (School for beginner & spot for experience). Take the rest of the afternoon to dive into the pool, walk to the lagoon and observe kitesurfing practicing, walk on the beach or even rest in your villa. After dinner, you will be free and easy.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, you will meet your instructor then will get a 2hrs Morning Kitesurfing introduction on the one perfectly safe flat lagoon aside your property. Back to your resort for lunch, then a short rest before heading back to the lagoon for a 3hrs first session of your beginner training where in the next days (all together 9hrs divided in 3 sessions of pratical training of 3 levels 1-2-3) with your instructor you will learn the set up & safety, basic theory of both the kitesurfing & the wind understanding, First flying of trainer and power kite, bodydragging downwind and upwind, first water start exercices on the board and of course up & riding. After your afternoon ride, you will take the time to chilland enjoy the facilities as well as the surrounded of your property. Rest of the evening free & easy to chill at the upper deck lounge and exchange with the others kitesurfer (experience or novice) your day of kite
Day 3 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, meet your instructor, get back your equipment, then take back the direction of the lagoon where your instructor will continue custom-made your training following your performance the day before, all in all continuing the course for another 3hrs morning session. Back to the resort for lunch and some rest before heading back to the lagoon for your last 3hrs course with will be mix with some experimental ride for yourself. Let the feeling out and ride the lagoon with pleasure.
Back to the kitesurf school to bring back all your equipment, before taking off time and enjoy your resort and activities until the dinner will be served.
Day 4 (B)
Enjoy an early morning and walk by yourself around the mangrove and the lagoon where you could spot some numerous birds before you get your breakfast. Will be follow by your check out without forgotten to farewell everyone
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing some of the best Kitesurf spots or even take more courses to develop your skills, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
Additional days can be add following your desire.
What is Included?
Return catamaran boat transfer, cooked western breakfast, midday snack, drinking water & water activities (snorkelling, stand up paddle boarding)
What is Excluded?
Special meal option will be possible (Add USD20 per pax), Snorkeling equipment (bring your own). All Drinks alcoholic
Day 1 (L-D)
Pick point will be either Anuradhapura or Puttalam. The drive time is much longer to the Island therefore visitors should be ready at above locations by 9.AM. En-route we will be visiting ancient Pearl fishery port of Marrichkudai and Arrippu or if the fair weather road through Wilpattu National Park is accessible from the bottom end to the top of park skirting the Dutch and Portugal Bays. We will arrive in Mannar Island around 4ish in the evening for a quick pit stop to refuel ourselves and head out to home stay another 30 km away. After arriving at home stay (Talaimannar majority of clients will be accommodated in local house where alternative ccommodation will be sought based on availability) we will be met by local hosts and shown to our accommodations and house rules etc. Head out for a dip in the Indian Ocean with few cold beers. Overnight will be at home stay; a group dinner in one of the homes with local dignitaries to throw bit of light on Mannar past.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast with your host family, we will depart for Island hopping. You will get to experience stunning sceneries each ways of Sufi temple, Adams’ bridge, toddy trails etc. Its day filled with activities with specifics to lesser degree. Those with a knack for fishing or go swimming in off shore bar reef, let us know on the day of your reservation, we will arrange it for you with prior arrangements with natives.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
Today, you will head out to mainland Mannar to explore holy Madu Church middle of Wani jungle, you will then jump into your bike and will ride into the vicinity of giant tank sanctuary. We will then get back to Mannar town and we will hit the streets on back of bikes passing by The Dutch fort, Palamuni fishing nets, Salterns and Vankali bird sanctuary are some of the highlights. By day end, we will head back to our home stay for farewell Mannar dinner
Day 4 (B)
After your breakfast, head out after saying good bye to our host for your next destination.
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, Kayak guide trained in CPR & First Aid, First aid kit, International Standard Safety Equipment, Mobile Phone in case of emergencies, Kayak gear and paddle, lunch and drinking water, all other kayak necessary equipment
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks, snacks, biscuits
Day 1 (L-D)
Arrival at Kalpitiya Jetty by 8.30am, be welcome by our team & embark in the catamaran, get a debrief and set up yourself in your cabin before joining back the captain and your instructors on a common area for more information and getting your kitesurfing equipment (if you doesn’t have your own) and enjoy the sailing trip (around 1hr) to get to Vella Island in Portugal Bay where we will spend the rest of day.
After lunch, grab your equipment, then start riding for 3-4hrs this amazing part of the lagoon which is one of the world spot notch to ride your kite. Our 2 instructors will support you in giving their tips for you to improve your ride.
Back on the boat for sunset time, debrief you day, chill with some beers and appreciate the lush experience to be away from anyone. Rest of your evening will be free & easy
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Will be sailing to another amazing location in the lagoon, when you will early wake up appreciate the sunrise before grabbing your breakfast. Then change yourself, take your kitesurfing equipment and start your morning kitesurfing, depend the orientation of the wind, ride downwind or upwind. Get back to the catamaran or the beach (depend where the lunch will be serve), and take one more hour to chill before getting back in the water for your 3-4hrs afternoon session and being observe by your instructors to support your evolution. By day end, back to the catamaran for another evening of sharing experience and stunning sunset sceneries
Day 3 (B-L)
Wake up one more time early and appreciate a stunning sunrise and numerous birds can be spot. After your breakfast, grab back your equipment for your morning session where you will enjoy riding another location where the wind will offer you perfect force for you to enjoy this 3-4hrs ride. After your lunch, pack up everything, then appreciate the 1hr maximum transit back to Kalpitiya Jetty (arrival estimated around 2pm).
Generally in this time, you will be pretty exhausted, if you desire to extend your stay on Vella Island Camp or in our camp main shore to continue experiencing some of the best Kitesurf spots or even take more courses to develop your skills, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
What is Included?
Tuk Tuk Ride, local guide , entrance fees of Sri Mada Bohi & Anuradhapura sites
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
Rain jacket or poncho, rain pants, light trekking pants, good hiking boots (Salomon X Trail type – light and fast to dry), pair of sleepers, short sleeved light shirts, long sleeved light shirt, 3-4 pairs of football/hiking socks, 2-3 shorts or zip off pants, 1 sweat shirt (for the cool night), 1 extra pair of comfortable shoes, underwear, lightweight sleepwear, swimsuit
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, your host, your lunch
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at the camp, you will proceed to your check in and installation. You will get an introduction by one of the surf coach our Friend Fawas who will give you an introduction to the camp and the surf program for the next day, You will get a welcome dinner around 7pm at the camp where you will get the chance to meet the other surfers who are currently here. the rest of the evening free and easy to chill at the camp or walk on the beach or even grab a tuk-tuk to go in town (15min ride) where multiple restaurants, bars run well night time (Don’t forget to get back to the camp not too late as the next morning you will need to be up by 4.30am)
Day 2 (B-L-D)
We wake-up at 4.30am (early bird catches the worm!) for tea/coffee and a
banana. Pack a bag of boardshorts or bikini, your brand spanking, suncream and, of course, heaps of enthusiasm, and you’ll be met by your coach who will select a board suitable for your first session. We set off at 5am and travel by tuk tuk to the beach. At the beach we split up in to groups based on your surfing ability so that you’ll be in a group with a handful of other surfers that are at the same level as you. Your coach
will spend some time on the sand explaining surf skills and setting a
drill to warm you up, and then it’s straight out into the surf. After 90 minutes
of surf we head back to the camp for breakfast, juice and post surf chats. After your breakfast you will be having a video feedback at the classroom.
There’s an optional yoga class at 10am then you have the rest of the morning
and early afternoon to chill, read, swim, sunbathe or take a walk into town.
We head back to the beach around 2.30 for surf initiation session two. Your first day
ends with a feast of fresh Sri Lankan cuisine and some cold beers with us.
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, pack up everything, farewell the team who took good care of you, before getting back on the road for new adventures.
Day 1 (D)
Before you get ahead to the reservoir and depart for your new adventure, we will do a pit stop at the government hostel for you to take a nap and a shower/toilet before by 3pm we get back on the road again to the Wadinagala Reservoir for 2-3 hrs on a sunset boat cruise for birds & wildlife watching, pure paradise especially at those hours of the day to spot multiple birds as pelican, black cormorant and with a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. We will ride the boat all the way to the camp site located at the heart of the Gal Oya National park (if the water level is too low, we will get back to the boat jetty then goes to the camp site via 4x4 jeep about 45 min ride)
At your arrival at the camp side, set up your tent before enjoy a local dinner in the wild of Gal Oya National Park with its wildlife sound intensify upon the night move on. “Be aware this is a pure camping experience, no toilet and shower has been set up”, we will show you where you can take care of you.
Day 2 (B)
An early morning start as by 5:30am we jump into our 4x4 jeep to ride the park dusty road for 3-4hrs sunrise jeep ride into the Gal Oya National Park for you get more opportunity to spot the morning wildlife as elephant, fox, chacal, grey langgur … as well as multiple birds species and get lucky to appreciate the sunrise and a very specific sceneries which only Gal Oya National Park offer. We will be back to the camp side for breakfast and pack up before we head to the entrance of the national park the government hostel for a shower and toilet before depart for the next destination.
3D2N
Day 1 (L-D)
At your arrival, you will be enjoying a lunch at the campsite & received a short briefing & introduction and taking some freetime for you to rest a bit or walk around the property. By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs Sunset 4x4 game drive within Wilpattu NP where during the dusty ride, you could encounter Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, wild water buffalo, wildboar, various species of deers, multiple birds as well as being lucky to encounter the wildly the Leopard. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy
Day 2 (B-L-D)
An early morning wake up as by 5:00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for a 3hrs sunrise 4x4 drive into Wilpattu NP for you to explore another area who will offer you wonders to spot and observe, any drives can bring you amounts of unique encounters. You will be back at the camp site for a Sri Lankan breakfast time from there you will have free time until lunch, you can spend by relaxing by your tent, reading a (wildlife) book, bird watching in the area of the camp or even joining one of our Sri Lankan cooking classes.
By 3pm, we will depart for your 2nd Sunset 4x4 3hrs Game Drive into the National Park in chess to spot of course the famous Leopard as well as others shy species as chacal, fox, porcepine, as well as all others species can be spotted during sundown time.
Back to the camp for dinner time. Rest of your evening will be free and easy
Day 3 (B)
One more early morning wake up as by 5:00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for one more 3hrs sunrise 4x4 drive into Wilpattu NP for you to explore others landscapes & area which will provide you more surprising wildlife encounters to observe. You will be back to your camp site for a Sri Lankan breakfast time, then proceed to your check out.
OR
2D1N
Day 1 (L-D)
At your arrival, you will be enjoying a lunch at the campsite & received a short briefing & introduction and taking some freetime for you to rest a bit or walk around the property. By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs Sunset 4x4 game drive within Wilpattu NP where during the dusty ride, you could encounter Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, wild water buffalo, wildboar, various species of deers, multiple birds as well as being lucky to encounter the wildly the Leopard. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy
Day 2 (B)
One more early morning wake up as by 5:00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for one more 3hrs sunrise 4x4 drive into Wilpattu NP for you to explore others landscapes & area which will provide you more surprising wildlife encounters to observe. You will be back to your camp site for a Sri Lankan breakfast time, then proceed to your check out.
What is Included?
Local guide , entrance fee of Pidurangala sites
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
What is Included?
Local NP Ranger , entrance fee of Angamedilla NP, 4x4 jeep & its competent driver, Pack Lunch
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, your host & any snacks, drink & Ice cream during the activity
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
What is Included?
Return catamaran boat transfer, breakfast, snack, lunch, drinking water & water activities (snorkelling, stand up paddle boarding)
What is Excluded?
Special meal option will be possible (Add USD20 per pax), Snorkeling equipment (bring your own). All Drinks alcoholic and non alcoholic
Day 1 (L-D)
By 8am we will meet our guide at a meeting point from where we change vehicule to continue our transfer to a tuk tuk for a ride across country side villages (around 30-45min) to the starting point of the 22KM trek in the heart edge of the Piduruthalagala Mountain Range where the trail pass by light jungle, pine forest, abandon first build tea settlement, we reach the James Taylor tea pionner and its functional tea estate. After lunch in a remote local restaurant, we will climb up all the way to the Delta pass being able to see the tea workers collecting tea leaves as well as some Toque monkeys. The abandon road already fully cover by jungle was long ago the first tea road able to access both side of the mountain tea estate where at multiple time offering astonishing views on the region. At our ended point of the trail, we will jump on a tuk tuk then a private local bus where you will be able to observe local and how hard it is for them to reach their settlement who is one of the further away tea estate in the area. We will established in one of the Tea Estate authentic Bungalow still used by the manager of the area which will provide you a pure feel of being part of the tea industry. Upon check in, you will be free and easy to rest, walk around the settlement or even grab a cup of tea appreciating amazing scenery.
Day 2 (B-L)
Very early in the morning (around 5:30am), after your breakfast we will start our 12KM trek believed to be the path that King “Rawana” took Princess “Seetha” from the Capital “Lankapura” to “Ashoka Vatika” (now Nurawa Eliya) you will depart early to reach the summit (Peratas Estate) that is surrounded by a pigmy forest, which looks like a pathway. It is a remarkably beautiful place, which has breathtaking views and unspoilt extraordinary environment. The earliest we reach the more lucky we can spot some sambal dear, wildboar, & clouded forest birds. On the way down, the trail become very narrow by bowitiya & sitha bushes, cloud forest where amazing flowerish smell the trail. Stop by a waterfall for those desire to take a dip into it, before heading back to Mooluwa Mooloya Tea estate where a local lunch will be hosted inside of the tea estate bungalow old as more than 100 year. After lunch, we will visit the tea factory to complete the tea experience before depart for your next destination.
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at the property around 2:30pm, proceed to your check in and appreciate a local refreshing herbal drink before heading to your room. By 3pm, you will join an introduction tour of the Samadhi Center then you will participate to a Sri Lankan Delicacy cookery lesson. By 6pm, take a rest for 1hr1/2 before you join the doctor consultation at 7:30pm (about 30min), then enjoy your dinner at the main restaurant located above the river where you will enjoy this dinner with the sound of tropical bird & the sound of the water flowing below.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Early morning just after the sunrise, join us for your morning daily yoga & meditation 2hrs session. An adapting breakfast will be awaited and served for you to enjoy. By 10am, you will get your first Ayurveda treatment of 2hrs30 session. Feeling totally relax and feeling free, your appetite will be open for you to enjoy your lunch before 2:30pm heading for a waterfall walk, river bath & bird watching. This walk will offer you 2hrs30 of nature getaway before reaching back the center for you to take a rest. By 8 pm the dinner will be serve at the main restaurant to end this beautiful day.
Day 3 (B-L)
It will be a similar morning as the day 2 with different Yoga and Ayurveda treatment Early morning just after the sunrise, join us for your morning daily yoga & meditation 2hrs session. An adapting breakfast will be awaited and served for you to enjoy. By 10am, you will get your first Ayurveda treatment of 2hrs30 session. Feeling totally relax and feeling free, your appetite will be open for you to enjoy your lunch. By 1pm, we will proceed to our check out and will take the direction of the next destination.
2D1N WHITE WATER DRIFT ON KELANI GANGA RIVER
Day 1 (L-D)
Arrival at the camp by latest 12pm, you will process to your check in and install yourself in your accommodation before meeting up at “The Longhouse” where a lunch will be awaiting for you. By 1pm your instructor will take care of you and will make you change to canyoning clothes, then you will depart for a walk up through a hike across the rainforest till the the lower section of the canyon. At about 1:30pm, gear up and listen on to the safety briefing before embarking on your canyoning activity for 1 to 2 hours activities depending of your speed
At about 3:00 PM, freshen up at ending point (Basecamp) and get a warm tea break. The rest of your afternoon and day will be free for you to chill, get a dip in the river or mingle with others at “the longhouse”.
Day 2 (B-L)
After your breakfast, at about 10 am change into your rafting clothes. Then, transfer to the starting point few kilometer up river from Basecamp. At about 10:30 AM, gear up and listen on to the safety briefing before embarking on your rafting activity. The rafting will last between 45min - 1.5hours depending on water level. The furthest rafting distance is 6,5 kilometers.
At about 12:00 PM, freshen up at ending point (Basecamp) and grab a lunch before transferring for your next.
BE AWARE, following the rainfall level, we could alternate each activity or cancel if the water level is too dangerous
OR
HALF DAY CANYONING BY THE KELANI GANGA (standard & advance level)
Traveling this narrow side-canyons of the Kelani River is like stepping into a liquid-rock playground, it begins with a short jungle hike up to the canyons through rainforest. From here, we’ll cover a few ground rules in a safety briefing and then hop right in — literally. As we make our way down the canyons, we’ll have to jump into plunge pools and wade across small “potholes,” the best and only way to experience the stony canyons features carved by rushing water over many thousands of years! There are even a few “waterslides” along the way! During this adventure you’ll face several thrilling challenges. This is fun, fun, fun and is consistently one of our most popular adventure activities in Kithulgala.
Day 1 (L or Tea Break)
At about 10 AM or 1 PM (Afternoon Session), arrival at basecamp located by the riverside of Kelani Ganga River, start your adventure with some light refreshment and opportunity to change into your canyoning clothes if you want. Then, you will walk up through a hike across the rainforest till the the lower section of the canyon. At about 10:30 AM, gear up and listen on to the safety briefing before embarking on your canyoning activity for 1 to 2 hours activities depending of your speed
At about 12:00 PM , freshen up at ending point (Basecamp) and eat lunch (or tea break for afternoon session) before transferring for your next destination.
OR
HALF DAY KITHULGALA WHITE WATER RAFTING (River rapids Class 2 & 3)
Raft your way 6.5 kilometers downriver depending on water levels (approximately 45 min to 1.5hours) - the longest white water rafting experience in Sri lanka, dodging boulders and rocks throughout the ‘Killer Fall” and “Butter Crunch” rapdis sections of the river. rafters are guaranteed a challenge, but are also offered a chance to relax, with small calm stretches allowing a refreshing swim in the river to unwind. End the trip with some snack & lunch, while laughing about the thrills you have just experienced!
Day 1 (L or TB)
At about 10 AM, arrival at basecamp located by the riverside of Kelani Ganga River, start your adventure with some light refreshment and opportunity to change into your rafting clothes if you want. Then, transfer to the starting point few kilometer up river from Basecamp. At about 10:30 AM, gear up and listen on to the safety briefing before embarking on your rafting activity. The rafting will last between 45min - 1.5hours depending on water level. The furthest rafting distance is 6,5 kilometers.
At about 12:00 PM, freshen up at ending point (Basecamp) and grab a quick lunch before depart for your next destination.
Experience our local diving spots (reef, rock, wreck) within different depths for your personal fun dives. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, with us you will find and arrange 2 boat dives at your diving skill level which will meet both, your encourages and expectation after discussing your dives with our PADI divemaster or PADI instructor. Get wet and explore our east coast underwater treasure
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am), you will be welcomed from one of our local and international Dive masters and instructors. We provide you with equipment if desired, help you to prepare and organize your group. Finally you will have a comprehensive but compact BRIEFING together with your group. We will tell something about the dive site, explain important local and special dive site - related methods and techniques, repeat the signs for underwater communication and answer any questions you might still want to clarify. By 9am, we will finally go, we cast off! Together we bring the equipment to the boats, of course our staff helps you if you are not capable of carrying it yourself. When everybody is on the boat we get to one of our many dive sites, of which most can be reached within 20 minutes. Arrive at site, you beginning a two-tank boat-dive which consists of two dives. If there is a significant difference in depth between the two approached dive sites, the deeper one will be dived first (we dive with PADI and therefore avoid reverse profiling). Depending on the zero time a dive is at maximum of 45 minutes. The surface interval (~ 30 min) is usually already covered by the drive to the next dive site, but we will give you enough time to recover you from your dive, and prepare your equipment for the next. Here too, we are happy to assist you. Between the dives we will NOT go back to the dive center if possible.
By 12.30pm, you will be back at the diving school where we will invite you to talk about your underwater experience with tea and biscuits, help you to complete your logbook and identify organisms that you have seen during your dives before we will move to your next destination.
Those itineraries can be add on on days if you want to enjoy longer the destination or improve your skills
4D3N - FOR BEGINNER OR NOVICE RIDER
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your accommodation. You will receive a quick introduction of the property as well as the kite activities & programs Meet of the instructor stand by in the camp to help you to get your equipment (if you haven’t got your own). Take then the rest of the afternoon to walk to the lagoon in following a huge yellow sandbank to be able to observe some kitesurfeur riding the lagoon, walk on the beach or even rest in your at the property. After dinner, you will be free and easy
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, by 8:30am you will depart on tuk tuk with other experience riders either “the Big Kahuna” or “Dream Spot”, you could be able to ride both during this day or going back to the same one (depend the group you are joining).
“The Big Kahuna” offer a large expanse of sheltered water between here and the mainland with some lovely places to kite around and explore. We will take you on a journey, starting close by ; we will travel by boat for 25mins to our favorite little island we found there, where you will find huge areas of flat water to play in. Kite around small islands, go upwind exploring before we kite further downwind, landing close to Kalpitiya where we will be brought back to the camp.
”Dream Spot” is located 15 minutes boat trip from the Kalpitiya lagoon. A sand bank separate the sea from the lagoon so one one side you can enjoy the wave in the indian Ocean and on the other side the flat water in the lagoon. By evening time, you will be back to the camp for you to chill out or even free to join others activities. Rest of your day will be free & easy
Day 3 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, by 8.30am you will depart for a full day trip to one Kite Hideaway – Vella Island (again depend of your level), which is one of the best spot in the world and can get there by boat from Kalpitiya in passing by peaceful landscape which separates the lagoon from the ocean. After one hour, stop over on a small island to setup our kites, then we kite 10km downwind, along sandbars, passing quiet fishing villages- a great time to play around, explore the untouched coastline before arriving at our favorite spot in Sri Lanka! Safety boats will be following behind to help if you have any problems and will watch out for you all day. Enjoy a 2.5km bay, at a perfect angle to the wind, creating world class kiting conditions. Off-shore wind gives you kilometers of glassy flat water and so much space. The kite station on the Island offer getaway zen –comfort with hammocks, beanbags, chairs and plenty of shade, with a nice view of the kite area.
You desire to stay overnight camping on the island, let us know, we will be able to arrange it (Additional cost will be generate)
By day end, you will be transfer back to your camp where you will be free and easy to chill, and bring back your rental equipment to the kite shop
Day 4 (B)
After your breakfast, you will proceed to your check out and depart for your next destination
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing some of the best Kitesurf spots or even take more courses to develop your skills, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
OR
3D2N - FOR BEGINNER RIDER
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your accommodation. Meet your instructor, get your equipment (depend how busy they are could also be the next morning). You will receive a quick introduction of the property as well as the kite activities & programs. Take then the rest of the afternoon to walk to the lagoon in following a huge yellow sandbank to be able to observe some kitesurfeur riding the lagoon, walk on the beach or even rest in your at the property. After dinner, you will be free and easy
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, you will be greet per your instructor and will depart to the lagoon in tuk tuk for a 3hrs Level 1 course which will gives you more understanding of kiteboarding is all about. Teaching of the wind mechanisms, the setting up of the equipment on one of the largest & protected lagoon. You will be back to your camp to take some time to rest until the lunch time. After lunch you will re-embark into a tuktuk to take the direction of the lagoon where you will join a 3hrs morning Level 2 where you will learn the wind mechanisms, the kite power management, body dragging, self rescue, water start theories. You will then get back to the camp where you will be free to join others activities. Rest of your day will be free & easy
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, for the last time of this session, you will meet your instructor at the lagoon for your 3hrs morning Level 3 where you will improve and your real first session in the water with the board, time for pure water thrill. At your way back to the camp, grab a lunch before proceed to your check out.
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing and improving your skills on some of the best Kitesurf spots, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Colombo, your host & any snacks & drink during the walk
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
What is Included?
4x4 Morning or Afternoon game drive in Udalawale National Park, Undalawale NP Entrance fees
What is Excluded?
Travel to Udalawale National Park, Entrance tipping and gratuities to driver guide
CHOICE BETWEEN 2 SNORKELING DESTINATION
OPT1 - JUNGLE BAY SNORKEL (morning or afternoon)
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am or 1.30pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you at the beach. You will experience a “mise a l’eau” with some sensation and take the direction of Jungle Bay within a short boat ride. Arrival at site, the bay is an insider tip, with a beautiful beach land a very shallow entry point where you will jump into the stunning blue sea and snorkel for a maximum 3hrs, open your eyes as loads of hard corals, amazing Indian Ocean underwater biodiversity Get back on your boat and depart to your the dive center from where you will leave a new destination.
OPT2 - UNAWATUNA REEF SNORKELING (Morning or Afternoon)
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center (8.30am or 1.30pm), after being welcome and introduced, you will try out your equipment before heading to the speedboat who will be awaiting for you at the beach. You will experience a “mise a l’eau” with some sensation and take the direction of Unawatuna Bay which is not only a world famous beach on land, but offers a great underater experience too. Arrival at site, it has many shallow spots where it is perfect to come in it where the stunning blue sea en-lighted this day snorkelling experience for a maximum 3hrs, open your eyes as loads of hard corals, amazing Indian Ocean underwater biodiversity Get back on your boat and depart to your the dive center from where you will leave a new destination.
What is Included?
Tuk Tuk Ride, local guide, entrance fees of Sri Mada Bohi & Anuradhapura sites
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
The property
Set by afar the deepest beside the bordure of Yala National Park, in front of a stunning reservoir, untouched bush forests & small hills. As soon as the sun peek is nose out, the chatter of the birds resonance goes all over the scrubland offering you the most wonderful waking up.
Been the pionneer in the Yala Region and always been at the finest in terms of experiences, accommodation, services always in adapting and up-grading their prestation. their location is wild surrounded by incredible flora and fauna of all shapes and sizes, you can see for yourself how unique the landscape is amongst all of the colourful and varied birdlife. They have been environmentally conscious camping in adopting a strict “no-plastic” policy, use renewable energy to as great an extent as possible, and have implemented an eco-friendly waste-management system.
Your luxurious safari tent, complete with teak platforming, a terrace and ensuite bathroom facilities, offer comfy camp beds and lots of space and even a wash area in the tents. Anyone can expect decent toilets and hot and cold showers.
Kulu Safaris pushed the perfection of comfortness with their modified safari vehicles Land Cruisers, imported from South Africa and accompanying you throughout are some of the most knowledgable guides in the region.
Your days activities will be orchestrate by morning & evening 4x4 safari drives, walking by yourself across the property, set your gear by the reservoir and spot multiples birds as well as stunning sunrise & sunset or even grab a book and enchance yourself with the rythmn of the jungle.
Accommodation
All tents have been custom-made in South Africa by one of the world’s leading safari outfitters. Our Base Camp in Yala offers large tents (each tent is over 200 sq. ft.) that are secured on raised wooden platforms.
Each tent includes a small deck (or ‘veranda’ as we like to call it) for some private space to sip an evening drink, or to relax with a good book.
The tents have en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold showers. The fly screens support excellent ventilation while keeping out pesky critters.
Kulu Safaris camp has a maximum capacity of 12 guests.
Cuisine
While on safari we enjoyed a snack of fresh guava juice with cheese and biscuits and then once back at camp we were served cold gin 'n' tonics and an absolutely delicious curry. You would never go hungry, nor would you want to. We ate overlooking the river as the sun went down and the water buffalo came to drink. Absolutely fantastic!
Each meal will prepare in the most cleaness way insome of the most stunning settings... private breakfasts, evening dinners on water in candlelight or high in a tree house, and much more. Our Kitchen is fully dedicaced to provide you awesomely cooked Sri lankan recipes with a twist & freshly collect vegetables for the pleasure of everyone palate.
Picnic lunch can be set for those going for the full day safari, or spending the day exploring the historical sites of the South, Dinner on the water barge as well as high on the tree can be arrange following availability and weather forecast.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we will always do our best to prepare meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
Kulu’s Yala camp is ideally situated to explore the multiple sectors (referred to locally as ‘blocks’) of Yala National Park, and we run Private or Join In Safari(s) of our safaris in Block 1 and 5.
However, for guests staying 3 or more nights, we visit Block 3, 4 and Lunugamvehera National Park.
For the morning round, we recommend you leave the camp by 5.30 am to be at the Park gate as it opens. The best time for departing for the evening round is around 3.00 pm. If you prefer to spend the whole day at the park, take a picnic lunch and break journey by the Menik Ganga or get back to the camp to enjoy your meal and walk around with your camera to photosnap birds or any mammal could be passing across.
Vehicule backup solution during safari - Our Toyota Land Cruisers are modified for comfort, reliability and photography. The jeeps are modified with special suspensions outfitted for rugged roads, Self - recovery winches, Cyclone air cleaners to ford deep waters and Special wheels and tires to handle the rugged terrain in the national parks.
Our fully retractable canvas canopies allow for a 360 viewing and photography opportunity, and our jeeps are well stocked with refreshments, medical and safety gear. During an emergency we use two - way radio systems (Motorola).
‘Jungle Walk’ led by our guides (through protected forest department reserves). Request the walk, it provides a rare opportunity to learn interesting tips on the art of tracking, animal behaviour, and offers a unique perspective for birding as well as photography.
Kayaking on the reservoir at the camp, guests can get out on the water for a couple of hours of solitude, exercise and experience a different aspect of nature. Excellent opportunity to experience birding and marine reptiles.
Standing at 36 feet, our viewing platform presents views as far as the eye can see over surroundings jungles and villages. The platform is Yala’s first and offers alternative viewing experience of the islands southern jungles.
Experience Sunrise & Sunset Reservoir Spot, can be experience just a walk away from your tent, open your mind to live in such breathtaking moment.
We also enjoy taking our guests to explore sites of historic and culturalsignificance in the vicinity of our camp (archaeological sites from the Ruhunu civilization located within Yala National Park). Kataragama is one of the most sacred and symbolic places of worship for all religions, but especially for Buddhists, Hindus and indigenous communities. Sithulpawwa (which is believed to translate broadly to “Hill of the Quiet Mind”) is an ancient jungle monastery that dates back to the 2nd century B.C. Both locations attract many devotees, especially during times of religious festivities.
Stream collection of movies/documentaries of which 5 documentaries were filmed in Sri Lanka where Kulu Safaris have exclusively had the privilege of been a part of and providing accommodation and other land based logistics. We invite our clients to watch these at camp during leisure.
For those interested in history and culture, there is much more to explore in this part of the island as the Civilization of Ruhana goes beyond two thousand years but is eclipsed by the central Anuradhapura Kingdom. Ruhuna’s ruins are scattered everywhere, along the coast and inland. Within easy access are the well-known sites of Kirinda (approx. 15 min. drive), Sithulpahuwa (45 min. drive), Tissamaharamaya (20 min. drive) and Kataragama (approx. 45 min. drive) as well as the lesser visited ones of Yatala (approx. 30 min. drive), and Thelulla Dagabas (approx. 30 min. drive).
Guide
All Naturalists Guides are trained in basic first aid treatments – All vehicles are equipped with a first aid box, they are constantly trained by different professionals who are specialized indifferent categories. These include archaeologists visiting camp, sharing and providing us information on Yala and surrounding areas.
All 4x4 drivers are highly trained on vehicle self-recovery, driving skills, vehicle maintenance and repairs.
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, bottled water, ice box with couple of local beers each, Authentic Sri Lankan tasting snack/bites. Entrance fees for the locations we take you, Tradition Sri Lankan meal with mix different tasty dishes, umbrella and rain ponchos (available), hand towels, pocket tissues, hand sanitizing and first aid kit, hotspot if you need from our drivers
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, your host, guided tour of Ambalangoda, a sarong to use whilst at the temple, transport, tea, and a king coconut, tailor-made to end with a lunch (only for Morning Departure)
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
Day 1 (L-D) Walk around Farmlands & Knuckles Range Forest Reserve Borderline
Early morning & after your breakfast, we will get on the road to the Northern Part of Knuckles Range (about 6h drive) and the Ratkind village in the Knuckles valley. En-route we would stop to buy provisions for the home stay and our trek on the day 2. Lunch will be at local kiosk. After arriving in Ratkinda village we will be met by our home stay hosts and will be ushered to grand -parent’s farm house for a cup of tea and late evening dinner to follow. After tea go for wonder in the village and wound up in cool stream to for invigorating bath in Telegamu Oya.
Overnight in a farm house in Ratkinda village.
Day 2 (B-L-D) Trek & Shelter overnight in the heart of Knuckles Range Forest Reserve
Wake up to call of rooster and we will have breakfast in the patio overlooking majestic view of Manigala Mountain. We will be soon packing to head out to Abode; 3.5 mile single file foot path with an elevation gain of 4000 – 4500 feet. Arrive at the hillside house for lunch. We help our local aids collect fire wood and carry water from stream etc. and make ourselves home up the Abode. After lunch we will explore the vast Knuckles plains and deep ravines and return to Abode around 5 pm in the evening. Those who fancy games, rounder’s or cricket is on the cards. The venue is called the “Oval” – a cleared forest patch! Sleep over in the Abode of The Knuckles.
Overnight a far remote shelter in the heart of Knuckles Range Forest Reserve
Day 3 (B-L-D) Trek in the heart of the Knuckles Range Forest Reserve - Sunset Birding in Gal Oya National Park Countryside
After your breakfast, head back down to Ratkinda via loop walk. We will arrive at a river crossing where we would freshen up before calling it at grandparents’ house.
After quick snack and tea we will head off to Gal Oya National Park (about 3h drive) Before arriving at your accommodation, you will make small stops as well as an end-of-day walk near a small bird reservoir and its magnificent setting. The promenade offers a number of possible routes through the countryside and around the nearby lake, to observe a wide range of bird species such as kingfishers, eagles, kites and many water birds. Upon your arrival at your resthouse at the end of the day, which will be at your check-in then take a moment to rest before having a simple dinner at the refectory of the resthouse managed by the Sri Lankan government (If not available, you will stay in a guesthouse installed in the same perimeter. Rest of your evening free
Night in a Simple Lodge or Government Resthouse aside Gal Oya
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Galoya recorded than 150 species of birds. The Alexandrine Parakeet, Plum-Headed Parakeet, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Faced Malkoha can seen even if they are very shy. The Indian cormorant, Oriental Darter, Grey Heron, and Lesser Whistling Duck are among the common water birds you will be able to spot around the Senanayake reservoir. The white-bellied sea eagle, and grey-headed fish eaglewill be more visible in the grassland part as well as the indian roller.
Day 4 (B-L-D) Sunrise Boat Safari inside Senanayake Samudra Wildlife Lake Sanctuary - Sunset Safari & Camping in Maduru Oya National Park
Discover an ancient land untouched by time, a haven of serenity in which to reconnect with the rhythms of the earth. Immerse yourself in nature. Soak yourself in local culture. Explore the rich wildlife of Gal Oya, one of Sri Lanka’s most remote and least visited wilderness areas where secluded wildlife paradise and some of the most beautiful landscapes can be experience.
One of the aspects that make Galoya National Park truly special is that it is the only place where you can take the only boat safari in Sri Lanka and, if you are lucky, see the Asian elephant swimming in its natural habitat. Imagine the thrill of being out on the water in a NP, watching these magnificent creatures swimming from island to island, foraging and socializing at the water’s edge of the largest manmade lake in Sri Lanka . But also being lucky to spot some of the 32 species of mammal including elephants, wild boar, leopards, sloth bears as well as 100s of bird species.… an absolute experience to live in! The memory will stay with you long after your return home.
Early in the morning, at 5.30am, you will enter Gal Oya National Park via a water boat safari of approximately 2h ride of the only experience in Sri Lanka which allows you to observe the wildlife off the water. It's a unique way in Sri Lanka to immerse yourself in animal habitats. With a little luck, you may spot elephants swimming between the islands or bathing by the lake.
PS: The cruise program on the tank could change in the event of unfavorable weather conditions as well as given the limited number of Boats, if for reasons of last minute unavailability (Engine broken, or other reason), we will do this incursion inside this magnificent park in 4x4
After this incredible experience by boat or 4x4, you will embark for a 2h transfer to the small town of Maha Oya where you will have lunch before changing vehicles and in a jeep depart for Maduru Oya National Park to spend the night .
Maduru Oya National Park
Far from being in the spotlight of mass tourism; this immense expanse lost on the eastern part of Sri Lanka is bathed in dry heat due to its arid climate with alternating climates such as the monsoon (in season), surrounded by hills, its reservoirs and lakes, Maduru National Park Oya shelters a unique and rare melting pot of fauna, flora, royal ruins, breathtaking landscapes and engineering exploits by the creation of a dam which allowed to naturally develop its biodiversity, in particular sheltering many endemic and endangered species, as well as Asian elephants which can be seen individually or in a herd, without forgetting the sloth bear, the Sri Lankan leopard, buffalo, white spotted deer, jackal, sambar deer and many others , the slow gray loris as well as the otters are emblematic animals of the park because very little observed outside this park.Not to be outdone, the avifauna is also very varied and magnificent to see. The white-bellied sea eagle, the great cormorant, the painted stork, the black-hooded oriole, the woodpecker and the national bird of Sri Lanka, the jungle fowl and the malkoha, among others, make their presence obvious, if not very audible. Interestingly, around the tanks, the Asian open bill, the spotted pelican and the eastern stinger occupy the fore, as well as the black-headed ibis and the Eurasian spatula.In the midst of panoramic landscapes of Maduru Oya, ruins, rising from the ground could be visited such as: Henanigala, Werapokuna, Gurukumbura and Uluketangoda - to name a few and the combination of its different variants offered at Maduru Oya park the pearl of the east. To experiment as quickly as possible
At the entrance of the park, take the time to relax and stretch your legs (the time to prepare access to the park) before continuing your adventure until 6 p.m. in one of the most beautiful national parks wild and less visited due to its remote location, having a huge reservoir surrounded by evergreen forest, landscapes of immense expanse of Savannah, without forgetting the very rare and endemic tree "vatica obscura", which the only species of Dipterocapaceae present in the dry area can be seen here. Open your eyes during this ride on a superb dusty or muddy road (depending on weather conditions), and observe the Asian elephant, the wild buffalo, the Jackal, lucky if a jungle cat, a Sri Leopard Lanka shows itself, several species of birds will appear along your way to illuminate the experience. At the end of the day, you will land at your camp located in the heart of the park, and after having set up the tents (do not forget your ground sheet and your sleeping bag), you will have the rest of the evening free to enjoy the unique location where you will spend the night under the stars Night in a Camp set up either in the jungle or on a plot at the edge of a reservoir in the heart of Maduru Oya National Park, Simple tent will be installed (do not forget 'bring your floor mat and sleeping bag) a set portable toilet and shower will be installed for minimum hygiene)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Woolly-Necked Stork, Crested Serpent-Eagle, Crested Treeswift, Indian Swiftlet, Pheasant-Tailed Jacana, Green Imperial-Pigeon, Purple Sunbird, Streaked Weaver, and many more ... Some Endemic: Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Red-faced Malkoha, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Brown-capped Babbler, Sri Lanka Scimitar-babbler, Spot-winged Thrush
Day 5 (B-L) 4x4 Safari morning in the heart of Maduru Oya National Park
Early this morning, after your breakfast, at 6 a.m., you will re-embark in your jeep for a sunrise safari and have even more to meet and opportunity to observe wild animals and migratory or resident birds. . Around 9am, you will take the road back to Maha Oya for a quick break before taking the direction of the light yellow sand beach of Nilaveli (around 5h drive). At your arrival at your property, you will have the rest of your day free & easy to enjoy your property and its surrounded.
Night in Downsouth Beach Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Day 6 (B-L) Morning Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching Safari
Very early this morning you will depart for Trincomalee, and at 6.30am you will join in and boarding in a catamaran from Dutch Bay and sail towards the Whales. Along the way our chef will serve a freshly prepared breakfast and the moment whales are spotted you will be invited to the bow or upper deck for getting the best view. After the whale watching, you will return to shore and anchor for few hours in the back bay near Thirukoneswaram Temple where you will be able to jump into the sea, swim and snorkel until lunch will be served. By 1.30pm, you will disembark back at the Dutch Bay. Before we get back to our property, you will make a stop-over at the Thirukoneswaram Temple for a quick visit. Arrival at your property, rest of your afternoon and evening free & easy
Night in Downsouth Beach Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Day 7 (B--D) Morning Beach Free and Easy or Scuba dive - Pidurangala Sunset Rock Climbing
Enjoy what we could say a morning beach day, for you to rest after this adventure across Sri Lanka, take the time to walk on the beach, chill on a sunbed or scuba dive into the sea (2 morning dives optional, let us know in advance to arrange). After lunch, you will depart for Sigiriya (around 2h drive) and your property where you will be free and easy to do some birding around.
By 4pm, we will pick you up to take the direction of un-famous un-crowed Pidurangal Rock. Make sure you bring a sarong or scarf, as you’ll need to cover your shoulders when you walk through the temple ground.
Start the steady fairly ascent hike, walking next to a steep rock wall. There are some stairs and large boulders to step across until you get to a few remnants left of the Royal Cave Temple, including the remains of a few monastic structures. The main feature is the reclining Buddha statue, sheltered by a protruding rock. It’s half reconstructed in brick, though much of the original statue is still there. Pass other this giant reclining Buddha statue, the hike gets a little bit tricky. While there isn’t too much more hiking to go, there are massive boulders blocking the way up the path. The “path” essentially continues beyond the boulders and up to the top of Pidurangala Rock. It’s best to climb these with a buddy. You can help each other up and around the rocks. Arrival at the top, take the time to see some of the most astonishing 360 degrees sceneries Sri Lanka offer. After our descent, you will return to your property where you will be free and easy.
Night in Tree House or Bush Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your beach property)
Day 8 (B-L) Morning Lion's Rock Ascent - Colombo International Airport
By 6am, you will heading to the world famous and referred as “the eight wonder of the world”and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage. Rising 200meter above the surrounding jungle with a flat plateau on top, it formed from the magma of an extinct volcano over 200 billion years ago, Sigiriya rock is one of the world best examples of ancient urban planning built up over 1500 years ago offering over 1200 steps to the top. The earlier you start the climbing the better to avoid large crowed as well as the heat can become intense upon the sun rise. Upon the climb you will encounter multiple opportunity to stop featuring gorgeous views. You will pass by the Mirror Wall (now Stained orange) used to be a highly polished white wall wrapping around the edge of the rock. Reaching the northern side of the rock where the main entrance to the palace , you will not miss the huge Lion Paws, then continue the climb until the top to fell completely accomplished. After our descent, you will get back to your property for your breakfast, before getting back on the road to Colombo International Airport (about 5h drive)
PLEASE BOOK YOUR FLIGHT DEPARTURE AFTER 9PM
Day 1 (L-D) Negombo - Yapahuwa Ruin & its inhabitant - The Mudhouse - Night Walk
After your breakfast at your property located in Negombo, by 8.30am, you will depart in direction to the Mudhouse and on the way, we head 1hr30min drive to Yapahuwa is one of Sri Lanka’s best preserved and least visited ancient capitals. Dating from the 13th century, Yapahuwa was built in the style of Sigirya and stands resplendently above a 90 metre tall rock. Yapahuwa was a royal palace and a military fortress, originally constructed by King Buvanekabahu in 1273.However, Yapahuwa’s most distinguishable and striking feature is the giant stone staircase and carved lion statues (easily recognisable from their prominent appearance on the current 10 rupee bank note). This staircase was purpose built to access the shrine room where the relic was housed.It is possible to climb all the way to the summit and appreciate the spectacular 360 degree views. Vertigo sufferers may find this a bit of a challenge though! A couple of hours is usually enough to explore the site and small museum. After this history stop-over, you will take your final destination (The Mudhouse), where upon check in, you will enjoy a local lunch. After your lunch, in keeping with the local concept, grab our bikes which are more ‘Iron Horse’ than ‘Tour de France’, yet they are more than ample for the kind of light exploration we tend to do here. The land around The Mudhouse is predominantly flat an ideal for exploring by peddle power, to ride all the way to predominant places such as the Paramakanda temple and Tonigala rock (Stunning Scenery at its top). Many of the nearby villages and lakes can also be reached on the ride. At end of afternoon, chill at your mudhouse, and enjoy amazing local delicacies in a full natural atmosphere.Upon Sunset, walk around the huge vinicity to spot numerous of birds. before or After your dinner, you will depart for 1hr night walk to try spot Slender Loris or even the giant Squirrel
Night at The Mudhouse in one of the House (depending their availability)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Jerdon's Leafbird, Jerdon's Nightjar, Purple Heron, Red-Vented Bulbul, Green Imperial Pigeon, Purple Sunbird, Asian Koel, Yellow-eyed Babbler and many more... Some endemic as: Ceylon Woodshrike, Ceylon Junglefowl ...
Day 2 (B-L-D) 10h 4x4 Game Drive across Wilpattu National Park
The largest of Sri Lanka’s national parks at 1,085 square kilometres, Wilpattu National Park (Land of Lakes) is now enjoying a renaissance following the declaration of peace in the country; opening its doors to visitors again after 16 years of closure, with a new visitor centre established in 2003. Before visitor numbers fully return to Wilpattu (it was at one point the most visited of all Sri Lanka’s parks), it remains a relatively uncrowded and unhurried park filled with a network of ‘Villu’ reservoirs, dense scrub jungle and grass-covered clearings. The unspoil seclusion of the park make it ideal for those looking for peaceful safari experience away from the crowd found in other area
Very early in the morning (around 5.00am), you will depart for about 1hr30 transfer to Wilpattu National Park, from where you will change vehicule to enter the park with a 4x4 jeep, you will enter into one of the most amazing & one of the oldest National Park in Sri Lanka, the whole day about 10hrs you will ride the dust roads passing by reservoirs and magical forests in chess to encouter mutliple wildlife as Chacal, Fox, Elephants, horde of Wild Buffalos, Wildboars, Deers, various types of Monkeys, huge varieties of birds as well as if luck is with us Leopard and Sloth Bear. Enjoy an astonishing sunset before heading back to the Mudhouse
Night at The Mudhouse in one of the House (depending their availability)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Waterfowl - Little Grebe, Pintail, Garganey Common, Cresced Serpent-Eagle, Purple Heron, Great Thick-Knee, Orange-Breasted Green-Pigeon, White-Browed Bulbul, White Ibis, Little Cormoran and many more ... Some Endemic: Ceylon Green-Pigeon, Ceylon Red-Backed Woodpecker ...
Day 3 (B-L-D) Reservoir Sunrise Bird Walk around The Mudhouse - Anuradhapura Birding Sunset & Night Exploration
Early morning, If you are up get into a 2h sunrise walk iin the vinicity of your property where can be spotted multiples local tropical resident morning birds (let us know the night during dinner the day before if you want to join or not). Back to your property for breakfast.
After your breakfast, grab your bike which are more ‘Iron Horse’ than ‘Tour de France’, yet they are more than ample for the kind of light exploration we tend to do here. The land around The Mudhouse is predominantly flat an ideal for exploring by peddle power, to ride all the way to predominant places such as the Paramakanda temple and Tonigala rock (Stunning Scenery at its top). Many of the nearby villages and lakes can also be reached on the ride. Back to The Mudhouse to packed up your bags ready to go and enjoy your lunch before we depart for Anuradhapura (transfer about 2h-2h30) drive to Anuradhapura. At your arrival, please process to your check in and take some time for chilling and enjoying your property. By 4.30pm, depart to explore alternatively the Ancient Sacred City of Anuradhapura by getting the right spot for sunset & birding session which will offer perfect exposure of astonishing sceneries before getting inside the ancient city to get to few monuments extremely active by pilgrim where you will feel the weight of two millennia in the ruins of the city and its heritage, which was grand in its heydey. Hear the local legends and stories about. Back to your property for late dinner. Rest of your evening free & easy.
Night at The Sanctuary at Tissawewa in a Double or Twin Bed Room
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Black-Rumped Flameback, Rose-Ringed Parakeet, Purple Swamphen, Lesser Whistling-Duck, Cotton Teal, Purple-Rumped Sunbird, any more ... Some Endemic: Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Woodshrike, Ceylon Swallow and many more
Day 4 (B-L-D) Sunrise Walk around Forest Ruins Of Kaludiya Pokuna - Pidurangala Rock Sunset Climb (Optional)
Early wake up and after your breakfast and check out, by 6am depart for 40min drive to explore the ancient ruins of Kaludiya Pokuna, well hidden into a deep forest where a Buddhist Monastery has been build more than 1200 years ago. Literally translated by “the black water pool made by the sombre reflexions of trees and boulders of the neighboring forest and mountain where you will be able to see some amazing man-made advanced hydraulic system with artificial moats running through some of the buildings (like the bath houses, toilets. …).This place offer amazing surrounded for birds and some wildlife to be spot, so open your eyes.
After this exploration, we will take back the road in direction of Dambulla. At your arrival to your property, you will proceed to your check in, then enjoy your lunch. After you lunch take some time to chill and rest, or enjoy the rest of your afternoon by yourself to go around the property owned huge land with fantastic Dry Evergreen forest and a reservoir with large quantity of tropical birds. Dinner at your property & rest of your evening free & easy.
Night at Wildgrass Nature Eco Resort in Contemporary Villa (depending the availability) or similar
Addition Activity can be arrange: By 4.00pm, you will heading for sunset to the direction of un-famous un-crowed Pidurangal Rock which is an overlooked gem offeing giant reclining Buddha statue and what we call the view to see of the Sigiriya rock. After a climb of steps and small climb on the builder, the 360 degree scenery will be yours.
Back to your property for late dinner. Rest of your evening free & easy.
Birds Encounter can be spotted: White-Rumped Shama, Orange-Headed Thrush, indian pitta, Indian Cuckoo, Spotted Dove, Indian Scops Owl, Stork-Billed Kingfisher any more ...
Day 5 (B-L-D) Sunrise Ascent of the Lion's Rock - Gal Oya national Park
Early this morning, you will be heading to the world famous and referred as “the eight wonder of the world”and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage. Rising 200 meter above the surrounding jungle with a flat plateau on top, it formed from the magma of an extinct volcano over 200 billion years ago, Climb the Sigiriya rock provide one of the world best examples to explore ancient urban planning built up over 1500 years ago offering over 1200 steps to the top. The earlier you start the climbing the better to avoid large crowed as well as the heat can become intense upon the sun rise. Upon the climb you will encounter multiple opportunity to stop featuring gorgeous views. You will pass by the Mirror Wall (now Stained orange) used to be a highly polished white wall wrapping around the edge of the rock. Reaching the northern side of the rock where the main entrance to the palace, you will not miss the huge Lion Paws, then continue the climb until the top to fell completely accomplished. After the descent, you will depart back to your property by 7.30 - 8.00am, where your breakfast will be awaiting for you. After your morning meal, you will get back on the road to the lost & wild east of Sri Lanka and its astonishing final destination Gal Oya National Park. Upon arrival at your lodge (Around 5pm), proceed to your Check In, then take a time to rest of the day enjoying the property. Rest of the evening free and easy
Night at Galoya Lodge in Wooden Bungalow
Day 6 (B-L-D) Gal Oya National Park Birding Walking & 4x4 Safari
Discover an ancient land untouched by time, a haven of serenity in which to reconnect with the rhythms of the earth. Immerse yourself in nature. Soak yourself in local culture. Explore the rich wildlife of Gal Oya, one of Sri Lanka’s most remote and least visited wilderness areas where secluded wildlife paradise and some of the most beautiful landscapes can be experience.
One of the aspects that make Galoya National Park truly special is that it is the only place where you can take the only boat safari in Sri Lanka and, if you are lucky, see the Asian elephant swimming in its natural habitat. Imagine the thrill of being out on the water in a NP, watching these magnificent creatures swimming from island to island, foraging and socializing at the water’s edge of the largest manmade lake in Sri Lanka . But also being lucky to spot some of the 32 species of mammal including elephants, wild boar, leopards, sloth bears as well as 100s of bird species.… an absolute experience to live in! The memory will stay with you long after your return home.
Early wake and after a quick coffee, at 6.00am join a resident naturalist for an early morning bird walk with its sunrise around the lodge, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings. The walk offers a number of possible routes through the trees and around the nearby lake, to observe a wide range of bird species such as Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and many aquatic birds. Please feel free to discuss your interests with your naturalist for a tailored trip to suit your preferences. Return at the lodge for breakfast (around 8.30-9.00am).
By 12.30am for a unique delicious picnic lunch in the National Park. Enjoy this lunch next to the river, waterfall or overlooking one of the park’s many breathtaking views. After this splendid time, we will continue this jeep ride & by foot for about 4hrs into the forgotten Nilgala section of Gal Oya National Park. Once protected by ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife, the park’s unique ecosystem is home to herds of elephants, wild boar, four species of deer, jackals, sloth bears, marsh mugger crocodiles and an array of rare exotic birds. Our more intrepid guests can couple the drive with a safari on foot. Hike through the park with our expert naturalists and see wildlife up close while exploring hidden corners of the park.
You will be back at the lodge by the end of day, for you to be free and easy to enjoy yourself at the lodge.
Night at Galoya Lodge in Wooden Bungalow
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Galoya recorded than 150 species of birds. The Alexandrine Parakeet, Plum-Headed Parakeet, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Faced Malkoha can seen even if they are very shy. The Indian cormorant, Oriental Darter, Grey Heron, and Lesser Whistling Duck are among the common water birds you will be able to spot around the Senanayake reservoir. The white-bellied sea eagle, and grey-headed fish eaglewill be more visible in the grassland part as well as the indian roller.
Day 7 (B-L-D) Gal Oya National Park Wildlife Boat Safari - Pottuvil - Kudumbigala Wildlife & Monestary doorstep of Kumana National Park 4x4 Sunset Ride
An early morning start as by 5.30am we go back into the Gal Oya National Park for a water boat safari about 2-3h of the only experience in Sri Lanka that allows you to spot wildlife from the water. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats. With a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. After this amazing boat experience get back to the lodge to enjoy your breakfast and check out.
By latest 9.30- 10.00am, you will embark for 2h transfer to your beach retreat by Pottuvil (40km North of Kumana National Park). At your arrival, you will be enjoying your lunch prior your check in and enjoy some freetime for you to rest a bit or walk around the property.
The only dirt road access to Kumana cross over its buffer zone who owned an ancient a forest hermitage called Kudumbigala, dates back to the 3rd Century and has always been a reputed Buddhist hermitage. Number of caves, with rock inscriptions and ruined temple complexes cover by tick evergreen tick forest shared by wild animals (Sri Lankan Leopard, Sloth Bear, Asian Elephant, Crocodile, Golden Chacal and many more...) stick by reservoir, lagoon & padi fields where farmers, fisherman, monks live to share the same land.
Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible place to experience by walk & 4x4 to go deep into the wild cultural spot. Multiples migratory & resident birds can be spotted as well as numerous of wildlife
By 2.00pm you will head off for a 3-4h 4x4 ride within Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary located on the way to Kumana National Park where you could spot Sri Lankan Elephant, Golden Chacal, Crocodile, multiple birds and of course hiking through the bush to go to some monestary offering astonishing & rare sceneries (keep your geat at all time, you could be surprise). At your way back to your beach property, refresh yourself away from the dust cought during the ride then join us for your dinner. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Night at Kottukal Beach House byJetwings in Deluxe Room
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Waterbirds inhabiting wetlands of Kumana & Yala is 90% are migrants - Waterfowl, cormorants (little cormorant, Indian cormorant), large waterbirds (grey heron, black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Asian openbill, painted stork), medium-sized wader and small wader are among the most common waterbirds. Black-necked stork and lesser adjutant are many of the rare birds that can be seen in the park. The migrant great white pelican and resident spot-billed pelican, lesser flamingo, pelicans, and rare species such as purple heron, night herons, egrets, purple swamphen, and Oriental darter. Crested serpent eagle and white-bellied sea eagle are the raptors of the park. The forest birds are orange-breasted green pigeon, hornbills, Old World flycatchers, Indian paradise flycatcher, Asian barbets, and Orioles.
Day 8 (B-L-D) Kumana National Park 4x4 Full Day Safari
After your very early breakfast & by 5.00am depart to Kumana National Park for a full day drive where you will embark yourself into a 4x4 on the most remote roads Kumana offers. Kumana being the Ramsar site in Sri lLanka with the highest birds type in the whole Sri lLanka, you will be able to amazed by stunning sceneries and spot multiple wildlife & birds away from the crowded other Ntaional Parks could have. Get the opportunity to walk into the wild and reach Bambaragasthalawa Ancient Temple (name given by the huge trees around the sacred site holding Bambara giant bee hives) which owned a giant reclining Buddha unfortunately has been damaged due to various acts of vandalism and nature as well as other caves close by where numerous rock inscriptions can be seen. Those caves night time are refuge to sloth bear, leopard has it wont be a surprise to see some poop and foot step on those species. (Take Away Lunch will be taken inside the National Park)
End of the day, you will depart Back to your beach property to finally rest and enjoy your dinner. Rest of the evening and night free and easy.
Day 9 (B-L-D) Pottuvil - Yala National Park 4x4 Sunset Wildlife Safari
After your breakfast, your morning will be free & easy to enjoy the beach, or walking aside the Pottuvil Lagoon to spot multiple birds. By 10.00am you will embark for 3h transfer to your camp set up at the side of Yala NP. At your arrival, you will be enjoying a late lunch at the campsite & received a short briefing & introduction and taking some freetime for you to rest a bit or walk around the property.
Yala is Sri Lanka's most renowed national park by the claim of the highest leopard density in the world. Forming a total area of 1268 sq km of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons divided in 5 zones. Extremely rich on wildlife, you will definitively encounter huge amount of birds life, also crocodiles, buffalos, primates and of course the Leopard.
Yala is one of the biggest National Park which has been divided in Block, we will try to avoid the block crowded (block 1 which is also the most populated by Leopard) by 4x4 and going to those remote where also wildlife remind wild yet used to 4x4
By 3.00pm you will head off for a 3h evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP where you could spot Sri Lankan elephant, the Sri Lankan sloth bearwild water buffalo but more than other to be able to spot wildly the Leopard . At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Night at Kulu Safari Camp in one Glamping Tent
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Waterbirds inhabiting wetlands of Yala is 90% are migrants - Waterfowl, cormorants (little cormorant, Indian cormorant), large waterbirds (grey heron, black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Asian openbill, painted stork), medium-sized wader and small wader are among the most common waterbirds. Black-necked stork and lesser adjutant are many of the rare birds that can be seen in the park. The migrant great white pelican and resident spot-billed pelican, lesser flamingo, pelicans, and rare species such as purple heron, night herons, egrets, purple swamphen, and Oriental darter. Crested serpent eagle and white-bellied sea eagle are the raptors of the park. The forest birds are orange-breasted green pigeon, hornbills, Old World flycatchers, Indian paradise flycatcher, Asian barbets, and orioles.
Day 10 (B-L-D) Yala National Park 4x4 Sunrise & Sunset Wildlife Safari
An early morning wake up as by 5.00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for a 3h sunrise 4x4 drive into Yala or Lunugamvehera NP for you to explore another area who will offer you wonders to spot and observe. You will be back at the camp site for a Sri Lankan breakfast time from there you will have free time until lunch, you can spend by relaxing by the pool, reading a (wildlife) book, bird watching in the area of the camp or even joining one of our Sri Lankan cooking classes.
By 3pm, we will depart for your 2nd Sunset 4x4 3h Game Drive into the National Park in chess to spot of course the famous Leopard, as well as all others species can be spotted during this 3h of games.
Back to the camp for dinner time. Rest of your evening will be free and easy
Night at Kulu Safari Camp in one Glamping Tent
Day 11 (B-L-D) Yala National Park 4x4 Sunrise Wildlife Safari - Train across the Hill Country - Ohiya Tuk Tuk to the feet of World's End
An early morning wake up as by 5.00am you will enjoy a quick Tea, Coffee & small snack break before embarking back to your 4x4 for a 3h sunrise 4x4 drive into Yala (Block 5) for you to explore another area who will offer you wonders to spot and observe. You will be having your breakfast inside the park.
The most scenic journey is to the Hill Country with the eastern train route, it’s hard to forget the experience of taking the train through Sri Lankan tea country. Nothing compares to the cold air that comes in through the windows and the endless rolling hills of tea plantations and lush forests.
By 10am we will depart from the entrance of Yala National (Park Block 5) by road to the city of Ella (around 3h drive). At your arrival at the railway station, depend of the time we arrive, you should have some free time to explore Ella and have lunch in the mountain city. Jump on a the afternoon local train to engaged yourself on an authentic experience with native passing by Thangamale Forest Sanctuary and climbing up to the feet of Horton Plain. At your arrival at the Ohiya Railway Station, we will take tuk tuk to reach our small far remote mountain lodge (about 30 min drive) which will offer such astonishing sceneries overlooking Udaveriya Estate & the edge of the World End. Upon arrival
proceed to your check in, then enjoy the scenery offered and a basic meal. Rest of the night free & easy to chill
Night at The Hill Safari Eco Lodge in Standard Double / Twin Bedroom
Day 12 (B-L-D) Udaveriya Estate & Settlement Sunrise Walk - Sinharaja National Park
When I looked into the distance it felt like infinity where the sky and lands met. I was lost in the beauty of Mother Nature as the mountain range blended with the sky and the perfect clouds made it look mesmerizing. What represent the feeling of trekking the Udaveriya Estate bypass broken road is known by the locals to offer its beauty throughout the walk. Distance won’t matter since it is a climb down all the way.
Early morning before your breakfast, walk to a sunrise located scenery point to appreciate one of the most exclusive scenery Sri Laka can offer, on the way down to your lodge for breakfast, walk through the Udaveriya abandon estate & his settlement where you could encounter kids going to school, habitant going to temple. This location offer an unique experience to see how local living far remote countryside live on daily basis. Back to your lodge for your breakfast, then we will depart for Sinharaja and its rainforest. At your arrival at your lodge set up at the border of the most untouched rainforest, proceed to your check in, take a time for resting or enjoy the scenery and location offered by this property, rest of the night free & easy.
Night at Jansen's Bungalow in Deluxe Double / Twin Room
Day 13 (B-L-D) Sinharaja National Park Endemic Birding & Wildlife Walk
Perfect Biosphere Reserve declarer Unesco World Heritage in 1988. Being the most important biodiversity site in the whole Sri Lanka (also internationally important for Tropical Biodiversity). Famous for its birds waves, Sinharaja comprises Lowland & Submontane wet evergreen forest with Submontane Patana Grasslands in the East. A staggering 64% of the tree species are endemic to Sri Lanka. Numerous Orchids & Pitcher plants are currently seen.
Early morning, after your early breakfast depart for a walk all the way to late lunch into the Rainforest of Sinharaja to spot endemic birds as well as wildlife. Pass through large path, river side & jungle incursion to venture yourself into the heart of this untouched rainforest which is only 21 km (13 mi) from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km (4.3 mi) from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Because of the dense vegetation, wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry-zone national parks such as Yala. There are about 3 elephants, and 15 or so leopards. The most common larger mammal is the endemic purple-faced langur, huge varieties of birds (with the highest number of endemic) also interesting mixed of Amphibians & Reptiles.
You will be back to your lodge for late lunch, you will get the rest of your free time for you to walk around the Tea Field at the border of the Rainforest where more birds can be sport during sunset.
Night at Jansen's Bungalow in Deluxe Double / Twin Room
Birds Encounter can be spotted:The place to be to see the most of the endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka, up your head up and get the luck to encounter them... Some Endemic: Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Junglefowl, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Ceylon Hanging-Parrot, Layard’s Parakeet, red Faced Malkoha, Green-Billed Coucal, Serendib Scop-sowl, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Samll Barbet, Greater Fameback, Black-Capped Bulbul, Spot-Winged Thrush, Ceylon Rufous & Brown-Scapped Babbiers, Ashy-Headed Laughinthrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, White-faced Starling, Ceylon Hill Myna, Ceylon Scaly Thrush, Ceylon Scimitar Babbler & Ceylon Drongo, and many more birds species can be spotted
Day 14 (B) Sinharaja National Park - Colombo International Airport
After your breakfast, you will embark for 4-5h transfer back to Colombo International Airport for you to catch your flight to your next destination.
Day 1 (L-D)
Pick up from Matale or Kandy and drive to Ratkind village in the Knuckles valley. Drive takes about 3 hours. En-route we would stop to buy provisions for the home stay and our trek on the day 2. Lunch will be at local kiosk. After arriving in Ratkinda village we will be met by our home stay hosts and will be ushered to grand -parent’s farm house for a cup of tea and late evening dinner to follow. After tea go for wonder in the village and wound up in cool stream to for invigorating bath in Telegamu Oya. Overnight at grandparent’s farm house in Ratkinda village.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Wake up to call of rooster and we will have breakfast in the patio overlooking majestic view of Manigala Mountain. We will be soon packing to head out to Abode; 3.5 mile single file foot path with an elevation gain of 4000 – 4500 feet. Arrive at the hillside house for lunch. We help our local aids collect fire wood and carry water from stream etc. and make ourselves home up the Abode. After lunch we will explore the vast Knuckles plains and deep ravines and return to Abode around 5 pm in the evening. Those who fancy games, rounder’s or cricket is on the cards. The venue is called the “Oval” – a cleared forest patch! Sleep over in the Abode of The Knuckles.
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, head back down to Ratkinda via loop walk. We will arrive at a river crossing where we would freshen up before calling it at grandparents’ house.
After quick snack and tea we will head off to Matale. Those who fancy a bus ride (leaves at 2.30 pm) there is window of extra 4 hours to potter around the village, for the others, transfer to your van for your next destination
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival around 4-6 pm to the government hostel, proceed to your check in then take a time for you to rest before the diner (if the weather and the arrival schedule isn’t too late), let’s enjoy a sunset on a a remote reservoir where local goes for fishing, swimming). After your local diner, you will be free and easy to rest and prepare your small backpack for the next 2 nights).
Day 2 (B-PNL-D)
Early wake and after a quick coffee, at 5.30am, get on the road for about 30 min ride to reach one of the Veddah village where we meet one of the last Chief Veddah who guide us all along during this next 24hrs. We start today 16KM trek into pure wilderness at first passing by the veddah villages and encounter its habitants, cross over their farm land, before venturing into very narrow trail which will almost disappear into the secondary then primary bushes and grassland where we will walk aside an astonishing mountain perfectly & naturally shape. On the way, open your eyes as multiples birds can be spots, elephants, spotted deers, wildboar are only example. After 6-8hrs walks you will reach a perfect ridge with grassland and Ayurvedah wild trees on one side & a view overlooking 50KM of jungles and reservoir on the other side, and a bit in the interior about 200meter away from the ridge multiple boulders have been create cave formation where Veddah community originally was staying before they move back. This place offer a very small stream of pure fresh water for light shower as well as drinking water reloading. Set your tent and the mobile camp before take the sun down to walk around the grassland and the ayurvedha trees with one of your guide to pot some birds, monkeys and others species until the wooden fire made purely local dinner will be served. After dinner, share sometime with the native discussing or goes on the ridge (if the weather permitted) to observe a pure clean sky cover of stars. During the night, help the guide to keep the fires alive to keep away wildlife could be in the area. “Be aware this is a pure camping experience, no toilet and shower has been set up”, we will show you where you can take care of you.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
Wake up for the sunrise and get some of the best view Sri Lanka could offer with it myst, magical sky colors and the sound of the wild waking up as elephant growling monkey chatting, birds singing until you get to enjoy a local breakfast. We depart today for 8KM, up-hill first for 2KM, then walking through other grassland before downhill back to the Veddah Village, this second day trek bring you into pure primary bushes where we can spotted Elephant dung, leopard poop as well as sloth bear foot prints. At your arrival at the Veddah Chief House a local Veddah delicacies lunch will be offer you to eat, before we get back on the road to the government hostel for you to take a nap and a shower/toilet before by 3pm we get back on the road again to the Wadinagala Reservoir for 2-3 hrs on a sunset boat cruise for birds & wildlife watching, pure paradise especially at those hours of the day to spot multiple birds as pelican, black cormorant and with a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. We will ride the boat all the way to the camp site located at the heart of the Gal Oya National park (if the water level is too low, we will get back to the boat jetty then goes to the camp site via 4x4 jeep about 45 min ride)
At your arrival at the camp side, set up your tent before enjoy a local dinner in the wild of Gal Oya National Park with its wildlife sound intensify upon the night move on. “Be aware this is a pure camping experience, no toilet and shower has been set up”, we will show you where you can take care of you
Day 4 (B)
An early morning start as by 5:30am we jump into our 4x4 jeep to ride the park dusty road for 3-4hrs sunrise jeep ride into the Gal Oya National Park for you get more opportunity to spot the morning wildlife as elephant, fox, chacal, grey langgur … as well as multiple birds species and get lucky to appreciate the sunrise and a very specific sceneries which only Gal Oya National Park offer. We will be back to the camp side for breakfast and pack up before we head to the entrance of the national park the government hostel for a shower and toilet before depart for the next destination.
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Colombo, your host & any snacks & drink during the walk
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
Day 1 (D)
From Maha Oya town and by 1.30pm, you will get on the road by jeep for about 40 min ride to reach the entrance of Maduru Oya National Park, take the time to relax and stretch your legs (the time to prepare access to the park) before continuing your adventure until 6pm. in one of the most beautiful national parks wild and less visited due to its remote location, having a huge reservoir surrounded by evergreen forest, landscapes of immense expanse of Savannah, without forgetting the very rare and endemic tree "vatica obscura", which the only species of Dipterocapaceae present in the dry area can be seen here. Open your eyes during this ride on a superb dusty or muddy road (depending on weather conditions), and observe the Asian elephant, the wild buffalo, the Jackal, lucky if a jungle cat, a Sri Leopard Lanka shows itself, several species of birds will appear along your way to illuminate the experience. At the end of the day, you will land at your camp located in the heart of the park, and after having set up the tents (do not forget your ground sheet and your sleeping bag), you will have the rest of the evening free to enjoy the unique location where you will spend the night over the gazing sky.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Early this morning, after your breakfast, at 6am, you will re-embark in your jeep for a sunrise safari and have even more to meet and observe wildlife and migratory or resident birds. Around 9am, you will take the road for Maha Oya from where you will take the direction of the starting point for the expedition across the wilderness of Pollebedda and its remote hills where a natural fortress lost in the middle of the savannah and deep Sri Lankan forest where elephants reign there in master. This trek is very rarely taken because of a distant son and his difficulty of access. When you arrive at the starting point, we leave for 2 days of hiking with one night in an open-air bivouac and after meeting our guide and our porters, we will take the direction of the starting point. After walking about 7KM through the legume plantations to "Chena Wadiya", you will walk to the foot of the rock in a dense Savannah type primary forest which during the civil war many confrontations passed here. The surrounding landscape at this point has something spectacular surrounded by mountains on all four sides and in the middle of very tall grass meadow (perfect food for elephants). The first part of the ascent is made up of a forest typical of the dry zone which shows signs of strong elephant activities. From the start, you will walk on an old path built by King Sadhdhatissa to reach the top of the rock, part of the ascent will be on steps of very old rock slabs and dry scrub type forests before arriving at the summit of the rock. When you arrive, install your floor carpet and enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening to enjoy the idyllically isolated setting and offer breathtaking landscapes (hydrate because it will be very hot and it will be very dry) and discover the centerpiece of this unique setting which is the "pond" of 3m deep and its oya toads, including the regions of Omanugala and Thoppigala .. This magnificent site has never been completed and the ruins of summit suggest. Today, this mountain fortress transformed into a monastery is in the homeland of a Vedda community, which lives in and around Pollebedda "renowned" village of veddah immortalized in the books of Dr Spittel. Rest of your evening free in the cave and appreciate one more night totally away from everywhere.
Day 3 (B-L)
After your camp fire simple breakfast, start your descent and resume the same path taken the day before through very nature and breathtaking landscapes. It will most likely be possible to observe elephants during these 2 days as well as the possibility of observing other wild animals such as golden jackals, sloth bear as well as many tropical birds. When you arrive at your guesthouse, where a lunch will be avaiting for you, before you depart for your next destination.
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your accommodation. You will receive a quick introduction of the property as well as the kite activities & programs Meet of the instructor stand by in the camp to help you to get your equipment (if you haven’t got your own). Take then the rest of the afternoon to walk to the lagoon just front of the property to be able to observe some kitesurfeur riding the lagoon, walk on the white sandy beach dune or even rest in your at the property. After dinner, you will be free and easy.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, by 8:30am you will start "Riding" the whole day or by session depend of your physical condition or motivation of the day, on the lagoon or even on the sea depend how high is the tight. Kite around stunning sceneries, go upwind exploring before we kite further downwind, landing close to your camp where we will be walk back to the camp. By evening time, you will be back to the camp for you to chill out or even free to join others activities. Rest of your day will be free & easy.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, grab your equipment, then take the direction of the sandbank & its lagoon and kite some of the 16KM of perfect lagoon under 20 knots wind condition, Safety boats will be following behind to help if you have any problems and will watch out for you all day. If the chance is with you perfect angle to the wind, creating world class kiting conditions. Off-shore wind gives you kilometers of glassy flat water and so much space.
By day end, you will be walk back to your camp where you will be free and easy to chill, and bring back your rental equipment to the kite shop.
Day 4 (B)
After your breakfast, you will proceed to your check out and depart for your next destination.
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing some of the best Kitesurf spots or even take more courses to develop your skills, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
This is a good question for your cell phone service provider. You’ll want to check with your service provider regarding international coverage and make sure you understand exactly what you’ll be charged for making calls and, if you have a smart phone, for using data (email/internet). Another option is to buy a local SIM card once you are in Sri Lanka if you do have an unlocked phone, we will help you to add this option upon your arrival at Colombo International Airport.
Day 1 (L-D)
Upon around 1pm to the lodge, proceed to your check in then join us for your lunch. After your lunch, we will take back the road in the direction of one of the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka. After 45 min drive, reach the jetty of the reservoir where you will embark in a water boat for 2-3 hrs on a sunset boat cruise in one of the largest reservoir, only experience in Sri Lanka that allows you to spot wildlife from the water. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats. With a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. After this amazing boat experience get back to the lodge and enjoy the rest of the evening and a superbe dinner at the lodge.
Day 2 (B-PNL-D)
Early wake and after a quick coffee, at 6am join a resident naturalist for an early morning bird walk with its sunrise around the lodge, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings. The walk offers a number of possible routes through the trees and around the nearby lake, to observe a wide range of bird species such as Kingfishers, Eagles, Kites and many aquatic birds. Please feel free to discuss your interests with your naturalist for a tailored trip to suit your preferences. Return at the lodge for breakfast (around 8:30-9am). Enjoy the rest of the morning to take a dip into the pool, chill in your chalet or walk around to spot some birds
By 12:30am for an unique delicious picnic lunch in the National Park. Enjoy this lunch next to the river, waterfall or overlooking one of the park’s many breathtaking views. After this splendid time, we will continue this jeep ride for about 4hrs into the forgotten Nilgala section of Gal Oya National Park. Once protected by ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife, the park’s unique ecosystem is home to herds of elephants, wild boar, four species of deer, jackals, sloth bears, marsh mugger crocodiles and an array of rare exotic birds. Our more intrepid guests can couple the drive with a safari on foot. Hike through the park with our expert naturalists and see wildlife up close while exploring hidden corners of the park.
You will be back at the lodge by the end of day, for you to be free and easy to enjoy yourself at the lodge
Day 3 (B-L-D)
An early morning start as by 5:30am we go back for a 4hrs sunrise jeep ride into the Gal Oya National Park for you get more opportunity to spot the morning wildlife (many birds) and get lucky to appreciate the sunrise. We will be back to your lodge for a late breakfast (9:30-10am). Take the rest of the morning to chill at the lodge and appreciate a lunch in this amazing surrounded.
By 2pm, depart for a walk of Discovery with the Chief Veddha for about 1&1/2 hrs of one of the last remaining communities of the Veddha – the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. Invited by one of the village Chief to take you on a walk through the jungles of his ancestors. Discover and learn about local nature as he brings the forest alive, explaining his tribe’s use of medicinal plants, ancient hunting grounds and cave dwellings. It’s a fascinating insight into how the hunter-gatherers lived in the jungles of Gal Oya.
Set out at 5:00pm and begin the 3-4hrs night safari with a drive to the Watawanna Lake. There you will visit some archaeological sites including ruins and an ancient water duct system. As it gets dark, drive back to the lodge with spotlights on, keeping a lookout for eyes shining back at you! Amongst other species, you can hope to see Jackals, Elephants, Nightjars, Wild Boars, Mouse Deers, Jungle Cats and Civets. Back to the lodge between 8-10pm for your dinner
Day 4 (B)
An early morning start as by 5:30am we go back into the Gal Oya National Park for 2-3 hrs on a sunrise boat cruise for birds & wildlife watching, pure paradise especially at those hours of the day to spot multiple birds and with a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge
We will be back to your lodge for a late breakfast (10:30am), then proceed your check out and head for your next destination.
Day 1 (D) Bodhinagala Forest Hermitage Bird Walk - Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Very early this morning after your breakfast at your property located in Negombo or Colombo, by 5.00am, you will depart in direction to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and on the way, we head 1h30min to 2h drive to Bodhinagala Forest Hermitage, nestling on the bank of the Kalu Ganga, this natural rainforest shields the buddhist hermitage from the hustle and bustle of the outside world, providing a serene environment for the meditating monks. Build up by amazing patch of wilderness complete with gentle slopes, crafting ridges and peaks shelter the Bodhinagala Monastery and some endemic creatures as the rare & shy Green-billed Coucal, Yellow-Fronted Barbet without forgotten the most visible mammals as Wildboar, Purple-faced Leaf, Toque Monkeys and Grizzled Indian Squirrel. After this stop over we will get back on the road for Sinharaja and its rainforest. At your arrival at your lodge set up at the border of the most untouched rainforest, proceed to your check in, take a time for resting or enjoy the scenery and location offered by this property, rest of the night free & easy.
Night in a Sinharaja Rainforest Lodge (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expected for your property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted:The place to be to see the most of the endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka, up your head up and get the luck to encounter them... Some Endemic: Ceylon Spurfowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Black-capped Bulbul, Spot-winged Thrush
Day 2 (B-L-D) Sinharaja Endemic Birding & Wildlife Walk - Udawalawe National Park
Perfect Biosphere Reserve declarer Unesco World Heritage in 1988. Being the most important biodiversity site in the whole Sri Lanka (also internationally important for Tropical Biodiversity). Famous for its birds waves, Sinharaja comprises Lowland & Submontane wet evergreen forest with Submontane Patana Grasslands in the East. A staggering 64% of the tree species are endemic to Sri Lanka. Numerous Orchids & Pitcher plants are currently seen.
Early morning, after your early breakfast depart for a walk all the way to late lunch into the Rainforest of Sinharaja to spot endemic birds as well as wildlife. Pass through large path, river side & jungle incursion to venture yourself into the heart of this untouched rainforest which is only 21 km (13 mi) from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km (4.3 mi) from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Because of the dense vegetation, wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry-zone national parks such as Yala. There are about 3 elephants, and 15 or so leopards. The most common larger mammal is the endemic purple-faced langur, huge varieties of birds (with the highest number of endemic) also interesting mixed of Amphibians & Reptiles.
You will be back to your lodge for late lunch, then you will take back the road to the border of Udawalawe NP. Arrival at your camp, proceed to your check in before enjoy a free and easy evening and night
Night at Bush Camp Site (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expected for your property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted:The place to be to see the most of the endemic species of birds in Sri Lanka, up your head up and get the luck to encounter them... Endemic: Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Junglefowl, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Ceylon Hanging-Parrot, Layard’s Parakeet, red Faced Malkoha, Green-Billed Coucal, Serendib Scop-sowl, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Greater Fameback, Black-Capped Bulbul, Spot-Winged Thrush, Ceylon Rufous & Brown-Scapped Babbiers, Ashy-Headed Laughinthrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, White-faced Starling, Ceylon Hill Myna, Ceylon Scaly Thrush, Ceylon Scimitar Babbler & Ceylon Drongo, and many more birds species can be spotted
Day 3 (B-L-D) Udawalawe National Park Wildlife Sunrise Safari - Beach time between unawatuna & Tangalle
Very early this morning, by 5am, you will embark into a 3-4hrs Sunrise 4x4 journey within Udalawale National Park recognize for its number of elephants hearses living in the permises.From the time you will be introduce inside this amazing open grassland savannah, loads of birds will be able to spot especially close to the reservoir without forgotten the possibility to spot crocodile too. During your ide, you will encounter individual as well as hearses of elephants from baby to old mammal which can be spot easily. By 10am, you will head back to your property in Udalawale. for breakfast.
After your breakfast, at 10 am, you will take the direction of your beach property between Mirissa to Tangalle (Unawatuna/Weligama/Matara/Talalla/Dikwella). Along the way, we will stop at an archaeological site, the Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, where you will climb to the top of this mountain where numerous temples (7 temples exactly) to allow you to understand the deep culture of Sri Lanka, have been established in different point of the ascent. At its summit enjoy a breathtaking view of the region. On your return, we will take the road to your final destination of the day. Rest of the evening free
Night in Downsouth Beach Retreat (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your property)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Spot-billed pelican, Little cormorant, Grey heron, Indian pond heron, Cattle egret, Great egret, Little egret, Intermediate egret, Painted stork, Woolly-necked stork, Yellow-wattled lapwing, Green bee-eater, Crested treeswift and many more... Some Endemic: Sri Lankan junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, Sri Lanka green pigeon, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka woodshrike and Sri Lanka Swallow.
Day 4 (B-L) Morning Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching Safari (ONLY AVAILABLE BETWEEN DECEMBER TO APRIL) ou Free Morning Beach Time (MAY TO NOVEMBER) - Colombo International Airport
(From December to April ONLY) Between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, we will check out, then you leave for the port of Mirissa where you will have the possibility of recovering your catamaran to embark on a cruise of approximately 7 hours researching whales and dolphins in order to be able to meet them in their natural habitat. By 6.30 am departure towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast including fresh fruit, when whales are sighted guests are invited to the bow and upper decks for the best viewing of these incredible creatures. After enjoying the whales, you will head towards Weligama Bay where the yatch anchors near the Snake & Trapobane Islands, perfect setting to enjoy swimming, paddle, snorkeling and getting your lunch before getting back to the port of Mirissa. Then we will proceed to take the direction of Colombo International Airport for you to be able to catch your flight
OR
(From May to November ONLY) After your breakfast, you will be free and easy to enjoy your property, the beach around until the time for departure. After process to your check out you will get back on the road to Colombo International Airport (if your flight happen to be night time, we will have the time to make a stop to Galle for a city tour of the old town)
If you desire to spend an additional night at your beach property for you to take some more time to chill and enjoy your adventure as you are not rushing back home, please let us know we will be glad to make it happen for you.
TO YOUR ATTENTION: Please make sure to book your flight depart from Colombo after 9.00pm
What is Included?
Return land transfers from Galle, your host, your lunch and cooking demo, apron will be provided
What is Excluded?
Alcoholic & non alcoholic Drinks
● All passengers should submit a health declaration card upon arrival, completed onboard the aircraft.
● As per border health and aviation procedure, if a passenger has fever, cough or shortness of breath on board the flight it should be informed to the Health Protection Agency.
Day 1 (L-D) Sigiriya/Dambulla/Pollonaruwa - Sunset Birding in Maduru Oya National Park Countryside
From your property located between Sigiriya, Dambulla or Pollonaruwa area, after your breakfast, you get ahead to Maduru Oya National Park (about 3h30min drive), on the way you will be able to stop on the road when some wildlife, birds can be spotted or some sceneries can be contemplate.
At your arrival at the lodge, proceed to your check in before running around your property for a sunset birding session around reservoir where multiple birds types, bats can be observe. Back to your property for your dinner. Rest of the night free & easy
Night in a Simple Local Lodge aside Maduru Oya
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Woolly-Necked Stork, Crested Serpent-Eagle, Crested Treeswift, Indian Swiftlet, Pheasant-Tailed Jacana, Green Imperial-Pigeon, Purple Sunbird, Streaked Weaver, and many more ... Some Endemic: Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Red-faced Malkoha, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Brown-capped Babbler, Sri Lanka Scimitar-babbler, Spot-winged Thrush
Day 2 (B-L-D) Sunrise Safari Game Drive in Maduru Oya National Park - Sunset Birding in Gal Oya National Park Countryside
By 5am, you will depart to the entrance of Maduru Oya National Park (about 1h-1h30min drive), on the way across the night & its myst can spot some wild as Asian Elephant, Golden Chacal,... At your arrival at the park entrance, take sometime to enjoy your take away breakfast with hot coffee and tea before embarking into 2h Safari Game Drive into one of the most wildest & un-explore national park build up with huge reservoir surrounded by evergreen forest, huge & stunning grassland sceneries & the rare and endemic tree vatica obscura, the only species of the Dipterocapaceae to occur in the dry zone can be seen here. Open your eyes during this ride along superb dusty or muddy road (depend of the climatic condition), and spot Asian Elephant, Wild Buffalo, Chacal, get lucky if any Jungle Cat, Sri Lankan Leopard show themself, multiple birds species will show along your way to enlight the experience. After your safari ride you will get back to your lodge for your lunch before getting back on the road to Gal Oya National Park (about 2h ride).
At your arrival at your Simple Lodge, take some time to rest before heading for another Sunset Birding Session across farm land & lakes in diverse location
Night in a Simple Lodge or Government Resthouse aside Gal Oya
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Alexandrine Parakeet, Plum-Headed Parakeet, Tickell Blue Flycatcher, Oriental White-Eye, Red-Vented Bulbul, Ceylon Paradise Flycatcher, Small Minivet Crested and many more ...
Day 3 (B-L-D) Sunrise Boat Safari inside Senanayake Samudra Wildlife Lake Sanctuary - Sunset Safari & Camping in Gal Oya National Park
Discover an ancient land untouched by time, a haven of serenity in which to reconnect with the rhythms of the earth. Immerse yourself in nature. Soak yourself in local culture. Explore the rich wildlife of Gal Oya, one of Sri Lanka’s most remote and least visited wilderness areas where secluded wildlife paradise and some of the most beautiful landscapes can be experience.
One of the aspects that make Galoya National Park truly special is that it is the only place where you can take the only boat safari in Sri Lanka and, if you are lucky, see the Asian elephant swimming in its natural habitat. Imagine the thrill of being out on the water in a NP, watching these magnificent creatures swimming from island to island, foraging and socializing at the water’s edge of the largest manmade lake in Sri Lanka . But also being lucky to spot some of the 32 species of mammal including elephants, wild boar, leopards, sloth bears as well as 100s of bird species.… an absolute experience to live in! The memory will stay with you long after your return home.
By 5am, you will depart to the Wadinagala Reservoir for 2h on an unique sunrise boat cruise on the Senanayake Samudra Sanctuary for some water birds & wildlife watching as pelican, black cormorant, Black-Headed Ibis and with a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge, Mugger Crocodile chilling by the sand bar surrounded by superb sceneries of islands & sharp mountain range. Back to your lodge for breakfast and sometime free and easy.
By 2-3pm, we depart to enter Galoya National park by jeep for a 3h safari and set up the camp where you will be staying overnight in the heart of the National Park. During the ride tufted Grey Langur, herds of White Spotted Deers & wild Buffalo, Asian Elephant can be spotted with multiple tropical birds. Enjoy the most esthetic sunset scenery Galoya can offer.
At your arrival at the camp side, set up your tent before enjoy a local dinner in the wild of Gal Oya National Park with its wildlife sound intensify upon the night move on. “Be aware this is a pure camping experience, no toilet and shower has been set up”, we will show you where you can take care of you. Rest of the night free & easy
Night in a Pure Bush Camping in the heart of Galoya National Park - Simple Tent with yoga mat with no toilet & shower
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Galoya recorded than 150 species of birds. The Alexandrine Parakeet, Plum-Headed Parakeet, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Faced Malkoha can seen even if they are very shy. The Indian cormorant, Oriental Darter, Grey Heron, and Lesser Whistling Duck are among the common water birds you will be able to spot around the Senanayake reservoir. The white-bellied sea eagle, and grey-headed fish eaglewill be more visible in the grassland part as well as the indian roller.
Day 4 (B-L-D) Sunrise Safari in Gal Oya National Park - Pottuvil - Kudumbigala Wildlife & Monestary doorstep of Kumana National Park 4x4 Sunset Ride
An early morning start as by 5:30am we jump into our 4x4 jeep to ride the park dusty road for 3h sunrise jeep ride into the Gal Oya National Park for you get more opportunity to spot the morning wildlife as elephant, fox, chacal, grey langgur … as well as multiple birds species and get lucky to appreciate the sunrise and a very specific sceneries which only Gal Oya National Park offer. We will be back to the camp side for breakfast and pack up before we head to the entrance of the national park the government hostel for a shower and toilet before depart for the next destination.
By latest 9.30- 10.00am, you will embark for 2h transfer to your beach lodge aroung Arugam Bay (40km North of Kumana National Park). At your arrival, you will be enjoying your lunch prior your check in and enjoy some freetime for you to rest a bit or walk around the property.
The only dirt road access to Kumana cross over its buffer zone who owned an ancient a forest hermitage called Kudumbigala, dates back to the 3rd Century and has always been a reputed Buddhist hermitage. Number of caves, with rock inscriptions and ruined temple complexes cover by tick evergreen tick forest shared by wild animals (Sri Lankan Leopard, Sloth Bear, Asian Elephant, Crocodile, Golden Chacal and many more...) stick by reservoir, lagoon & padi fields where farmers, fisherman, monks live to share the same land.
Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible place to experience by walk & 4x4 to go deep into the wild cultural spot. Multiples migratory & resident birds can be spotted as well as numerous of wildlife.
By 2.00pm you will head offfor a 3-4h 4x4 ride within Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary located on the way to Kumana National Park where you could spot Sri Lankan Elephant, Golden Chacal, Crocodile, multiple birds and of course hiking through the bush to go to some monestary offering astonishing & rare sceneries (keep your geat at all time, you could be surprise). At your way back to your beach property, refresh yourself away from the dust cought during the ride then join us for your dinner. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Night at Downsouth Beach Retreat - Belong to you to let us know the property category you desire to live in (from Beach Retreat 2* to Private Villa 5*)
Birds Encounter can be spotted: Waterbirds inhabiting wetlands of Kumana & Yala is 90% are migrants - Waterfowl, cormorants (little cormorant, Indian cormorant), large waterbirds (grey heron, black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Asian openbill, painted stork), medium-sized wader and small wader are among the most common waterbirds. Black-necked stork and lesser adjutant are many of the rare birds that can be seen in the park. The migrant great white pelican and resident spot-billed pelican, lesser flamingo, pelicans, and rare species such as purple heron, night herons, egrets, purple swamphen, and Oriental darter. Crested serpent eagle and white-bellied sea eagle are the raptors of the park. The forest birds are orange-breasted green pigeon, hornbills, Old World flycatchers, Indian paradise flycatcher, Asian barbets, and Orioles.
Day 5 (B-L-D) Camping in the heart of Kumana National Park & 4x4 Sunset Wildlife Safari Ride
After your breakfast, you will enjoy a free & easy morning before embarking in a 4x4 and from the asphalt to the dust road to Kumana National Park until you get to your camp (around 2-3h driving), during this drive, open your eyes and observe all wildlife and birdlife can be encounter. Upon arrival at the Camp, proceed to your check in your tent, then enjoy an home made lunch (depend of your arrival time). After lunch take some time to chill and appreciate the camp site, before by 3pm joining an afternoon game drive of 3hrs ride on divers dusty roads Kumana could offer. By sundown, you will drive baco to the camp located in the heart of Kumana National Park, were your simple dinner under stars and surrounded by oil lamps & Bonfire will be served. Take the time to commune with the nature and the people you are with. Your rest of your night will be free and easy. (No night walk will be allowed outside of the camp due to possible wildlife around).
Night in a Bush Beach Camp in the heart of Kumana National Park - (Let us know the level of the service & prestation expectated for your camp property as simple tent with yoga mat or simple glamping with bed can be arrange)
Day 6 (B) 4x4 Sunrise Wildlife Safari Ride - Arugam Bay/Pottuvil
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:30am, enjoy some coffee & tea (around 5:30am), you will then depart at 6am for a 3h morning drive where you will embark yourself into a 4x4 in others roads Kumana offers for you to be able to spot the morning crowded which some species can be only seen during sunrise time. Get the opportunity to walk into the wild and reach Bambaragasthalawa Ancient Temple (name given by the huge trees around the sacred site holding Bambara giant bee hives) which owned a giant reclining Buddha unfortunately has been damaged due to various acts of vandalism and nature as well as other caves close by where numerous rock inscriptions can be seen. Those caves night time are refuge to sloth bear, leopard has it wont be a surprise to see some poop and foot step on those species. Back to the camp for breakfast, then you will packed up for us to depart back to Arugam bay where your transport will be awaiting for you to leave for your next destination.
What is Included?
Local guide , entrance fee of Sigiriya lion’s Rock sites
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
Mobile Phones Companies have booths in the arrivals area of Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport offer at the arrival Local SIM cards are cheap for unlocked phones.
Mobile coverage across Sri Lanka is good in built-up areas and cheap. You can get a SIM card that has data and voice credit for as low as Rs 700 with a domestic call cost of Rs 2 per minute.
What is Included?
Full diving equipment (limited size so let us know in advance what will you need), Return Speedboat to dive site (1-1.30hrs per way)
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kirinda Beach Jetty, Entrance tipping and gratuities to dive master
What is Included?
For Day trip (10Hrs 4x4 game drive), for Half Day (4hrs 4x4 game drive) in Wilpattu National Park, Wilpattu NP Entrance fees, 1 mineral water per person
What is Excluded?
Travel to Wilpattu National Park entrance tipping and gratuities to driver guide
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at your lodge set up at the border of the most untouched rainforest, proceed to your check in, take a time for resting or enjoy the scenery and location offered by this property. After dinner, we will depart for a short night walk to try to spot any sleeping birds,night mammals, insects, reptiles,…
At your return to your lodge, rest of the night free & easy.
Day 2 (B-PL-D)
Early morning, after your early breakfast depart for the whole day walk into the Rainforest of Sinharaja to spot endemic birds as well as wildlife. Pass through large path, river side & jungle incursion to venture yourself into the heart of this untouched rainforest which is only 21 km (13 mi) from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km (4.3 mi) from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Because of the dense vegetation, wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry-zone national parks such as Yala. There are about 3 elephants, and 15 or so leopards. The most common larger mammal is the endemic purple-faced langur, huge varieties of birds (with the highest number of endemic) also interesting mixed of Amphibians & Reptiles.
You will be back to your lodge for Tea Time, you will get some free time for you to walk around the Tea Field at the border of the Rainforest where more birds can be sport during sunset. Rest of the day free and easy.
Day 3 (B)
By 5:30am after a quick coffee break, we will embark to a 2hrs sunrise rainforest walk into the national park to spot early morning unique spotted wildlife and birds, cross finger you can spotted some endemic ones. Back to your bungalow, take some time to chill & grab your breakfast before your proceed to your check out and depart to your next destination.
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), water bottle, biscuit, basic first aid kit, sleeper, comfortable light clothing
Guides
Experience Navy Dive Master (No Dive Instructor available)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. The more you are the cheaper it is, ratio 1: 6 pax per Boat
Only Diver with minimum Advance Level will be accepted
Do we accept children
Children will not be admit to join in
Your day dive can be cancel or postponed if the weather and the sea won't be safe. (if you already pay in advance we will refund this morning dives)
A compact umbrella, one waterproof cover for your backpack, one small dry bag for your documents and mobile phone, headlamp & small flashlight (usb chargeable will be more efficient), sun hat, quick dry hand towel, outlet adaptor, mobile phone charger, sunglasses (with UV protection), Contact lenses & prescription glasses (if you wear any)
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers. Dietary restrictions should be informed prior this private experience.
Guide
individual who has played a vital role in the continuation of Sri Lanka Gem trade
Do we accept children
Children won’t be allowed.
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, IKO Certified Instructor, transfer from the kite camp to any kite spots
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kalpitya, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to guide. Private IKO Certified Instructor, kitesurfing equipment rental
What is Included?
Camps site with tents, yoga mat Halfboard meals, national park entrance fees, jeep safari, Maduru Oya National park Rangers
What is Excluded
Transfer from/to Maduru Oya NP, Tips and gratuities, Carbonated & alcoholic beverages
What is Included?
All transfer from/to Colombo International Airport with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, canyoning & rafting Activities, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, Village trekker leader on Day 5, two 4x4 jeep safari game ride sunset & sunrise in Yala with experience 4x4 driver & Naturalist Guide, drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural heritage entrance fees, 7h sailing on catamaran.
What is Excluded?
Additional 4x4 Safari in Yala National Park, all chargeable water activities & surf lesson and board rental at your beach property, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, Naturalist & 4x4 driver, Village trekker leader.
You can’t wait to join your friends diving stories, and you deeply desire to venture your head underwater and discover how amazing scuba diving is. Join us to become one of them and become certified diver. The underwater world is awaiting for you and ready to show you its wonders! Get Licenced!!!
Sample of itinerary for the elearner based on 3 days, can be extend to 4 days
Day 1
At your arrival at the dive center , you will be introduced to the team as well as the diving spirit. As soon as you are ready today’s program will consist of Classroom sessions and Theory test. Spend the day watching Open Water videos and reviewing chapter quizzes with your instructor.
Day 2
Upon arrival at the dive center, pick up your equipment, then you will go to a shore dive site where you will do a 10 minutes tread water/float test without any swimming aid. Your instructor will teach dive gear preparation before proceeding to Confined Water 1,2 &3, and Open Water 1. After lunch (excluded), proceed to Open Water 2. At mid-afternoon, return to the jetty and drop off at your hotel.
Day 3
Upon arrival at the dive center, pick up your equipment, then after checked out your equipment, hop onto one of our speedboat for your ride to a dive site adapting to the today class. Upon arrival, you will complete a swim test with mask, snorkel and fins before proceeding to Confined Water 4 & 5. This will be followed by Open Water 3 with a maximum depth of 18 metres. Back to the shore for lunch (excluded) before continuing to Open Water 4. Return to beach and transfer back to you hotel. If you are completed all the sessions - congratulations! You are a certified diver!
Please plan for 4 days for your Open Water Diver course in any case (weather condition, slow learner, if not eLearning)
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, all agricultural activities with local guides and villagers at the rubber plantation & smoked house, tea plantation & factory, Cinnamon plantation, Evening Village Walk, Bird walks
What is Excluded?
Travel to the Gilemale, Yoga, Kayak & Canoe, Bicycle & Cooking Class activities, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide & team member of the property
What is Included?
Accommodation in basic hostel queen or twin bedroom with attached washroom, 2 camps sites with 1-4 person tents (in the National Park), bivouac with yoga mat (in the wilderness), fullboard meals, national park entrance fees, jeep safari, Maduru Oya National park Rangers, 2D1N trek with the Veddah
What is Excluded?
Transfer from/to Maha Oya, Tips and gratuities, Carbonated & alcoholic beverages, snacks, additional jeep safari
What is Included?
Experienced Trekking guide, All activities, meals as per mentioned, All other necessary equipment. Return Transfer from Lodge to Starting Point
What is Excluded?
Transfer In and out of the trail, Tips and gratuities for guide, carbonated & alcoholic drinks.
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your villa. Get a debrief of the property and all its activities. When you are ready get to the Kitesurfing shop to meet one of instructor stand by at the kite shop & try out your equipment for the next day (if you do not have your own one), get all the details of your Kitesurfing Program. Take the rest of the afternoon to dive into the pool, walk to the lagoon, walk on the beach or even rest in your villa or if you came earlier already grab your equipment and ride the Kappalady lagoon which is aside the resort. After dinner, you will be free and easy to chill, jin conversation with other Kitesurfer at the upper deck lounge.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, you will meet one of the instructor, grab your equipment and join other riders for a full day kite safari in one of the spot decided by the instructor following the best wind orientation of the day. This day can bring you to the “Puttalam Lagoon, Dutch Bay up to Vella Island in Portugal Bay”, which will bring you the best flatwater kite spots in the country where the consistent wind opens downwind options for miles & miles. You will get back to the resort by day end, from where you will be free and easy for the rest of the evening.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, meet your instructor, grab your equipment and depart for an excited & thrilling Kitesurfing day in one of the spot chosen by your instructor between “Puttalam Lagoon, Duch Bay, Vella Island”, if you prefer to ride the whole day the “Kappalady lagoon”, just let us know we definitively can arrange it too, in that case you will privilege the comfort and convenient to ride beside the resort and your villa for you to get a good rest between morning & afternoon ride. If you in chase of improvement and desire to take intermediary or advance course, give us your expectation we will add it into your trip.
By day end, you will be back to your resort and get one more evening to chill and enjoy the amazing surrounded on sunset time. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 4 (B)
Enjoy an early morning and walk by yourself around the mangrove and the lagoon where you could spot some numerous birds before you get your breakfast. Will be follow by your check out without forgotten to farewell everyone
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing some of the best Kitesurf spots or even take more courses to develop your skills, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs.
Additional days can be add following your desire.
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, Alcohol, 2 IKO Certified Instructor, All boat transfer
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kalpitya, tipping and gratuities to guide. Private IKO Certified Instructor, kitesurfing equipment rental
What to Bring?
Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasse
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges.
Guide
Our Crew & Pilot will be welcoming you at the airport & onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care.
Do we accept children
Children below 3yrs old will be Free of Charge & Between 3-14 yrs old will be 40% OFF the adult rates.
Be Aware:
Paid flights cancelled by the Airline will be fully refundable or be rescheduled to another date/time of the passenger/passengers convenience, subject to seat availability, at no extra charge.
However, there will be no entitlement to any refund or payment from the Ariline or Indigo Explorer after the flight has departed and returned back or diverted to the departure aerodrome or another destination during the flight due to bad weather or other reasonable cause .
Time Zone in Sri Lanka is UTC+05:30
What is Included?
All transfer from Colombo International Airport to Jaffna (Day 7) with a licenced naturalist national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, 4x4 jeep safari game ride in Wilpattu, drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural heritage entrance fees.
What is Excluded?
All chargeable activities at The Mudhouse & The Palmyrah House, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, 4x4 driver, to all hospitality team member.
Be cautious when operating Drones! You must Obtain requisite approval for operating any Drones devises anywhere in the island (Operations of Drones in Sri Lanka requires approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka. For details of the requirements,
What is Included?
All transfer from/to Colombo International Airport with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, canyoning & rafting Activities, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, 4x4 jeep safari sunrise games in Udawalawe & Yala with experience 4x4 driver, Naturalist Guide at the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural Heritage entrance fees, 7h sailing on catamaran (Only From December to April).
What is Excluded?
Additional 4x4 Safari in Udawalawe or Yala National Park, all chargeable water activities & surf lesson and board rental at your beach property, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, Naturalist & 4x4 driver.
What is Included?
All transfer from/to Colombo International Airport with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, meals mentioned in the itinerary, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, Village trekker leader on Day 1-2-3, Jeep safari game ride sunset & sunrise in Maduru Oya with experience 2x4 jeep driver & NP ranger, Boat safari on Gal Oya NP Reservoir with NP rangers, drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural heritage entrance fees, 7h sailing on catamaran.
What is Excluded?
Additional all chargeable water activities and board rental at your beach property, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, jeep driver, Village trekker leader, NP rangers
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, MP3 player (android or iOS) to crank your beats all day, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected with the open roof tuk tuks)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Tuk Tuk Drive do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board, so please feel free to ask them for anything you may need or want to know!
While some of our humble drivers may not speak perfect international languages, they make up for it with their customer service, friendly attitude and beaming smiles.
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
What is Included?
Accommodation inside Knuckles Ranges remote village first night being in the valley bottom house where grandparents live and in a hillside house on day 2, full board meals, cooked drinking water, coffee & tea, and the daily activities
What is Excluded?
Travel to Matale, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide, Farmers & families.
What is Included?
Accommodation inside Kumana National Park, full board meals, 4x4 jeep safari game ride sunset & sunrise, experience 4x4 driver, National Park Ranger, drinking water, coffee & tea, National Park entrance fees.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Arugam Bay, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide, National Park Ranger & 4x4 driver
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, MP3 player (android or iOS) to crank your beats all day, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected with the open roof tuk tuks)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers
Guide
Our Tuk Tuk Drive do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board, so please feel free to ask them for anything you may need or want to know!
While some of our humble drivers may not speak perfect international languages, they make up for it with their customer service, friendly attitude and beaming smiles.
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
What is Included?
Accommodation, fullboard meals, national park entrance fees, 4x4 safari, Boat safari, Birds Walk and around, The walk with the Veddah, naturalist guides
What is Excluded?
Transfer from/to Gal Oya Lodge, Tips and gratuities, Carbonated & alcoholic beverages, Sri Lankan cooking class, additional 4x4 or boat safari (day or night).
The property
On the unique sand dunes on the Gurugoda – Yala beach, we have taken the greatest care to ‘touch gently’. Glamping is what we offer – as a tribute to this unique stretch of beach: to ensure that our guests have an experience of a lifetime while minimally disturbing the rolling sand dunes.
All our ONLY 4 luxury tents have been set up in existing open spaces surrounded by vegetation characteristic of this area between the sand dunes and jungle. Each luxury tent is pitched on a steady wooden frame. The tents themselves have been custom produced for each individual space, providing unprecedented light and breeze that will keep you comfortable during the hottest days and chilliest nights.
You will sleep on beds with fresh linen on thick mattresses and cuddly pillows – forget the itchy sleeping bag on an undulated ground, forget the creaking narrow camp cot. This is glamping after all!!
Toilets, the frequent restrainer of wanna-be-campers! You have nothing to worry here – toilets and shower area are attached to the tent but are airy, open and spacious while being secure and modern, equipped with perfect fittings. Its glamping after all!
Accommodation
Our 4 luxury tents (two family tents for 4 and two twin tents), can accommodate up to 12 persons.
All our tents have been custom made to the particular clearing it occupies. We have concentrated on providing you with a safe and comfortable outdoor experience.
The handpicked high quality tent material keeps the heat and dampness out and the tent remains cool even during the mid-day heat. Each tent has large ‘windows’ and the front ‘door’ roll up flap enables perfect ventilation and the ‘outdoor feel’ without compromising on insect proof comfort. All tents are sealed with netting even when ‘windows’ are open. We need your support in ensuring your stay is comfortable – please keep the netting zipped.
All tents have permanent beds with fresh linen as you would expect in luxury lodges.
There are plenty of plug points for all your devices.
Cuisine
A big part the glamping experience is of course the meals in our shaded sea sand floor dining wadiya. We make sure everyone has a combination of the unfamiliar and exciting as well as ‘home-feel’ comfortable food to choose from. So we offer Sri Lankan traditional game-kama as well as contemporary dishes, international traditional and travel dishes. In keeping with the traditions, we use all fresh vegetables, fish and fruits. One of the best fishing habours in Sri Lanka is in the neighbourhood, so if you are a sea food lover – live it up!! Despite being a tented camp, the kitchen is modern and structured. But never fear… we love our camp fires – you will not miss out on that! Its Glamping after all!
We can also pack you a picnic lunch should you be going on a long dune walk, doing a full day safari, or spending the day exploring the historical sites of the South.
Special, non-spicy, dishes can be prepared for children. Similarly, we will always do our best to prepare meals accordingly for people with special diet requirements or allergies.
Facilities & Services
National Parks Private or Join In Safari(s) is of course a big part of a visit to this area.
Yala National Park is in spite of being famous for having the greatest concentration of leopards in the world, Yala is much more than for leopard watching. Herds of elephants, lone tuskers, sloth bear, wild buffaloes, deer, sambhur, jackals, crocodiles, innumerable birds, butterflies, trees, landscapes…the list goes on. For the morning round, we recommend you leave the cottage by 5.30 am to be at the Park gate as it opens. The best time for departing for the evening round is around 3.00 pm. If you prefer to spend the whole day at the park, take a picnic lunch and break journey by the Menik Ganga.
Beyond Yala, there is the beautiful and much less visited Lunugamvehera National Park on the north west boundary of Yala National Park. Lunugamvehera is around 1hr away by luxury safari jeep.
If you are a bird enthusiast, Bundala National Park (40 min. drive) and Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary (1.5 hr drive) offer excellent sightings, especially during the migrant season.
Experience Sunrise & Sunset Beach Dune Walks, there is something beyond magical to be sitting on a sand dune looking out to Antarctic as the sky throws up a pallet of colour, the Kuda Ravana Light House flicks itself on and off, and turtles suddenly bob up in the waves. And…the icing on the cake – the 3km stretch of beach is completely isolated. Not a single village, even inland. The only ‘life’ around you is certainly ‘wild’ – we have followed the tracks of not just innumerable birds and crabs but also elephants, leopard, sambhur, wild boar, jackals over the dunes and along the beach. So please don’t venture out without speaking to our Naturalist.
Warning: The sea is not suitable for swimming. Its open deep sea, the rocks cause further currents and crashing waves. Please refrain from swimming or even wading out to sea.
For those interested in history and culture, there is much more to explore in this part of the island as the Civilization of Ruhana goes beyond two thousand years but is eclipsed by the central Anuradhapura Kingdom. Ruhuna’s ruins are scattered everywhere, along the coast and inland. Within easy access are the well-known sites of Kirinda (approx. 15 min. drive), Sithulpahuwa (45 min. drive), Tissamaharamaya (20 min. drive) and Kataragama (approx. 45 min. drive) as well as the lesser visited ones of Yatala (approx. 30 min. drive), and Thelulla Dagabas (approx. 30 min. drive).
Guide
Naturalist Guides & Experience 4x4 driver (Yala, Buntala & Lunugamvehera NP) come from the local village with a few members from slightly further afield.
What is Included?
All transfer from/to Colombo International Airport with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, canyoning & rafting Activities, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, one 4x4 jeep safari sunrise game in Udawalawe with experience 4x4 driver, Naturalist Guide at the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural Heritage entrance fees, 7h sailing on catamaran (Only From December to April).
What is Excluded?
Personal Travel Insurance & Repatriation, Additional 4x4 Safari in Udawalawe National Park, all chargeable water activities & surf lesson and board rental at your beach property, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, Naturalist & 4x4 driver.
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, local guide, activities and all land and boat connexion/transfer within Mannar, community fee
What is Excluded?
Travel to the Pick up point, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide & the community
What is Included?
Return Boat transfer, full set equipment (snorkel, fins, mask)
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen.
Guide
The quintessential Sri Lankan mother- part liberal, a tad conservative, entrepreneurially gifted, an amazing cook, a skilled storyteller, a loving wife and a kind mother to her children.
Do we accept children
Children will not be allowed
Day 1 (D)
Upon arrival at the Resort (Check in time after 2pm), proceed to your check in and installation into your accommodation. Meet your instructor, get your equipment (depend how busy they are could also be the next morning). You will receive a quick introduction of the property as well as the kite activities & programs. Take then the rest of the afternoon to walk to the lagoon in following a huge yellow sandbank to be able to observe some kitesurfeur riding the lagoon, walk on the beach or even rest in your at the property. After dinner, you will be free and easy
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, you will be greet per your instructor and from the lagoon just aside the camp, you will engage in a 3hrs Level 1 course which will gives you more understanding of kiteboarding is all about. Teaching of the wind mechanisms, the setting up of the equipment on one of the largest & protected lagoon. You will be back to your camp to take some time to rest until the lunch time. After lunch, you will join a 2hrs afternoon Level 2 in the lagoon, where you will learn the wind mechanisms, the kite power management, body dragging, self rescue, water start theories. You will then get back to the camp where you will be free to join others activities. Rest of your day will be free & easy
Day 3 (B-L)
After your breakfast, for the last time of this session, you will meet your instructor at the lagoon for your 3hrs morning Level 3 where you will improve and your real first session in the water with the board, time for pure water thrill. At your way back to the camp, grab a lunch before proceed to your check out.
You desire to extend your stay and continue experiencing and improving your skills on some of the best Kitesurf spots, let us know we will arrange accordingly to your needs
What to Bring? Dry Bag, Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected before getting in the water).
Departure Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Crew will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care
Do we accept children
Children below 3yrs old will be Free of Charge & Between 3-12 yrs old will be 50% OFF the adult rates
What is Included?
Accommodation in basic hostel queen or twin bedroom with attached washroom, Camps site with quicktrekker light 2 person tents & 2 persons self-inflating mattress, Halfboard meals, national park entrance fees, 4x4 safari, Boat safari, Gal Oya National park Rangers
What is Excluded
Transfer from/to Wadinagala, Tips and gratuities, Carbonated & alcoholic beverages, Sri Lankan cooking class, additional 4x4 or boat safari (day or night).
What is Included?
All transfer from/to Colombo International Airport with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, canyoning & rafting Activities, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, Village trekker leader on Day 5, 4x4 jeep safari game ride in Wilpattu, Gal Oya, Kumana, Yala & Sinharaja with experience Naturalist Guide, , drinking water, coffee & tea, Cultural heritage entrance fees.
What is Excluded?
Additional 4x4 Safari in Yala National Park, all chargeable water activities & surf lesson and board rental at your beach property, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, Naturalist & 4x4 driver, Village trekker leader.
4D3N ALLAROUND MANNAR BIRDING
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at your retreat set in the Mannar Peninsular, please proceed to your check in. Depending of your arrival time, if before 3pm, you will get introduce with your ornithologist, then got on the road or by foot for 3h of birding (the location will depend where birds has been spotted) around your retreat by the beach area as well as by the road side where small water container has been formed, multiple flock of Painted Stork, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Billed Tropicbird, little cormoran and many more can be seen. Back to your retreat around 6.30pm for everyone to enjoy your dinner and free & easy evening.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, we will depart for Birding Island Chasing. As Mannar is a long strip surrounded by the sea & get an inland extention around the Giant's Tank, we will goes around diverse sights where armada of birds or specific birds can be spotted as well as experience breathtaking sceneries, we could be surprise too to encounter loner Golden Jackal crossing some lagoon or some donkey too. Early this morning, we could get going to Periyar Kalapuwa (lagoon) to look for for Common Teal, hundred of Showellers, Wigeon, Garganey. this plain is also good to sight Harriers. Crossing the lagoon to explore the Vankalai Lagoons marine area which is one of the best places in sri lanka for bird watching during migratory bird season. Lots of birds can be seen in shallow waters by the side of the road including greater flamingos if we are lucky. Multiple Birds can be seen by the side of Punarin road, Thaleimannar road including saltern and Madawachchiya road. Anytime we could stop on the way if we spotted any specific species.
By 1pm, back to your retreat to enjoy your lunch and taking a break for anyone want to chill or if you feel still energize by yourself get to the beach area to see what birds can be seen.
By 3.30pm, depart by foot or road for another 3h birding around your property where some birds you didnt yet spot can be seen.
Back to your property by 6.30pm, for you to enjoy your dinner & the rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
Very early this morning, we could take the direction of the Mannar Mainland with its Giant's Tank Sanctuary, taking the time to explore holy Madu Church middle of Wani jungle. The Giant's Tank attract species which can't be regulary found in the southern part of the island as Black Drongo, Asian Flycatcher, Indian Roller, elusive European Bee-Eater, Black-Rumped Flameback and many more. Anytime we could stop on the way if we spotted any specific species
By 1pm, back to your retreat to enjoy your lunch and taking a break for anyone want to chill or if you feel still energize by yourself get to the beach area to see what birds can be seen.
By 3.30pm, we could be going to Tthe adam bridge area & Tailaimannar where its lighthouse & fishing port can encounter some flocks of Gulls gathering with Heuglin's & Palla's Gulls. Surely on our way we could be making some stop depend what we can encounter. Back to your retreat for dinner. Rest of your evening free & easy.
BE ADVISE: Itinerary based on locations / sites visited may vary on daily basis dependent upon the density of species and individuals where the birds are; distance to sites may range from a couple of kms away to as much as 80 kms away from your property
3D2N EXPRESS MANNAR BIRDING
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at your retreat set in the Mannar Peninsular, please proceed to your check in. Depending of your arrival time, if before 3pm, you will get introduce with your ornithologist, then got on the road or by foot for 3h of birding (the location will depend where birds has been spotted) around your retreat by the beach area as well as by the road side where small water container has been formed, multiple flock of Painted Stork, Spot-Billed Pelican, Red-Billed Tropicbird, little cormoran and many more can be seen. Back to your retreat around 6.30pm for everyone to enjoy your dinner and free & easy evening.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
After your breakfast, we will depart for Birding Island Chasing. As Mannar is a long strip surrounded by the sea & get an inland extention around the Giant's Tank, we will goes around diverse sights where armada of birds or specific birds can be spotted as well as experience breathtaking sceneries, we could be surprise too to encounter loner Golden Jackal crossing some lagoon or some donkey too. Early this morning, we could get going to Periyar Kalapuwa (lagoon) to look for for Common Teal, hundred of Showellers, Wigeon, Garganey. this plain is also good to sight Harriers. Crossing the lagoon to explore the Vankalai Lagoons marine area which is one of the best places in sri lanka for bird watching during migratory bird season. Lots of birds can be seen in shallow waters by the side of the road including greater flamingos if we are lucky. Multiple Birds can be seen by the side of Punarin road, Thaleimannar road including saltern and Madawachchiya road. Anytime we could stop on the way if we spotted any specific species.
By 1pm, back to your retreat to enjoy your lunch and taking a break for anyone want to chill or if you feel still energize by yourself get to the beach area to see what birds can be seen.
By 3.30pm, we could be going to Tthe adam bridge area & Tailaimannar where its lighthouse & fishing port can encounter some flocks of Gulls gathering with Heuglin's & Palla's Gulls. Surely on our way we could be making some stop depend what we can encounter. Back to your retreat for dinner. Rest of your evening free & easy
Day 3 (B)
After your breakfast, head out after saying good bye to our host for your next destination.
BE ADVISE: Itinerary based on locations / sites visited may vary on daily basis dependent upon the density of species and individuals where the birds are; distance to sites may range from a couple of kms away to as much as 50 kms away from your property
What to Bring?
Dry Bag, Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected before getting in the water)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Dive master will do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board and at sea to show you a maximum of marine life, so please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need or want to know!
Do we accept children
Children below 4 yrs old will not be accepting in this adventure.
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen, torch light, head light
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Local guide will do their best to ensure you are having a good and safe climb
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Guides
Experience 4x4 driver come from the local village
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. The more you are the cheaper it is, ratio 1: 6 pax per jeep
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, multiple nature walks, bird watching, cycling to Paramakanda temple, kayaking, cooking class, 10-12hrs 4x4 game drive in Wilpattu National Park, Wilpattu NP Entrance fees, 1 mineral water per person
What is Excluded?
Travel to the Mudhouse, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide & team member of the property
What is Included?
Accommodation, Meals as Stated, English Speaking Experienced guides trained in CPR & Artificial Respiration, International Standard Safety Equipment, Comprehensive First Aid Kits, Safety lecture by guides before rafting, Safety boat on each trip, Throw bags on all rafts, River rescue equipment, Helmets, Form fitting life jackets, Repair equipment, Drinking water. Properly equipped rafts.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kirulgala area, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to guide, instructor & team member of the camp.
What to Bring?
Dry Bag, Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected before getting in the water).
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Crew will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care.
Do we accept children
Children below 3yrs old will be Free of Charge & Between 3-12 yrs old will be 50% OFF the adult rates.
What is Included?
Sri Lankan authentic organic meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, 2 daily sunrise yoga, 2 Ayuveda treatment, cookery lesson, waterfall walk & bird watching tour.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kandy, sodas and alcoholic beverages (not allowed during your stay in), tipping and gratuities to guide, therapist & team member of the wellness center
What is Included?
Experienced river guides who are trained in certified in CPR and First Aid, First Aid Kit, International Standard Safety Equipment, Mobile phone in case of emergencies, Optional Support Gear, Raft, All camping gear, Kayaks and/or Canoes and paddles, All activities, meals and drinks, All other necessary equipment.
What is Excluded?
Travel to the Pick up point, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide & the community. Travel Insurance
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Mindful & passionate individual guide
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected with the open roof tuk tuks)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Tuk Tuk Driver and a local guide will do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board, so please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need or want to know!
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen, torch light, head light
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Local guide will do their best to ensure you are having a good and safe climb
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected with the open roof tuk tuks)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Tuk Tuk Driver and a local guide will do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board, so please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need or want to know!
Eating is serious business. Sri Lanka’s cuisine is a dream for food-focused travelers for its spice and variety. But there’s an expression that sums up the importance of eating in Sri Lanka: “We ate, we drank, we left” describes the phenomenon of people.
Know your rice and curry & Hopper. ‘Rice and curry’ & hopper are the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine, but this vague label doesn’t do justice to the feast it involves: a medley of food, with multiple small dishes—similar to the Indonesian rijstafel—with endless combinations of sambols (blended spices) and usually meat or seafood. Sri Lankan cuisine was formed by the spice trade.
Go for the combination dishes. Yes, you should skip the ‘English’ breakfasts that most restaurants churn out. But do try the Sri Lanka/British fusion of ‘deviled’ chicken and seafood, and the Sri Lankan-Chinese staple, hot butter cuttlefish: rings of batter-fried cuttlefish, fried in butter and tossed with local spices. Remember Chinese & western cuisine won’t be made as the original recipe back to the mainland.
Not forgotten the tea comes sweet. Sri Lanka’s colonial incarnation, Ceylon, was the jewel in Britain’s overseas crown, for its beauty and for the tea plantations that kept the Empire wealthy and watered. The tea trade is still worth 2% of Sri Lanka’s GDP, and tourists come to drink high-quality hot leaf water in the plantation-rich hill country and in posh teahouses in Colombo. But the standard cuppa around Sri Lanka is pretty bland, and by default, served with so much sugar you can stand your teaspoon in it.
What look like my Meals on trip. Breakfasts on trip are usually buffets with a variety of Western and Sri Lanka breakfast foods. There is always coffee, black tea, juice, milk and water. Lunches and dinners in this region are usually family-style, as that is the Sri Lankan way (could be sometime a bit spicy. There will usually be panel of vegetables with several dishes including meat, fish, seafood and rice or noodles, . Sometimes you will have a packed lunch enroute to your next destination. At most remote lodges, drinking water, coffee and tea are provided free-flow. For all camp site/ bivouac, boiled water & tea will be provided and the food will be basic and local.
● Tourists travelling to Maldives will be provided a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival.
● A health declaration card will be required as part of the on-arrival procedure.
● All arriving passengers should wear masks
● Physical distancing should be ensured.
● Hand sanitization at entry to the arrival terminal.
● All arriving passengers must undergo thermal screening at entry.
● Tourists will not be subject to any quarantine measures upon arrival to the Maldives.
● Tourists will not be required to submit any medical test results for entry to the Maldives. However, travellers presenting with symptoms of Covid-19 upon arrival will be subject to a PCR test at the traveller’s cost. The tourist will be sent to a designated facility for isolation. Isolation will be done at a designated transit facility or at the tourists’ destination resort (depending on the resort policy). If the result of the PCR test is positive, the tourist may continue isolation at the resort or will be transferred to a designated state-run isolation facility. If the result of the PCR test is negative, the tourist will be released from isolation. In the case of negative PCR test in a tourist who is isolated temporarily at a transit facility, he/she will be released from isolation and may travel to the destination resort. Although released from isolation, a symptomatic tourist will have to follow restrictions on attending public places such as restaurants until the symptoms resolve.
● Contact tracing should be done for the symptomatic patient to identify passengers who were close contacts during the flight and during the journey. Contacts who are tourists can be quarantined in their destination resorts until the PCR test result of the patient is known. Contacts will be released from quarantine if the patients’ PCR test is negative.
● On arrival, if any tourist gives history of contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 within 14 days prior to arrival (as per passenger health declaration card), the tourist must be examined by the doctor at the airport clinic. If the person is asymptomatic, he/she will require to be quarantined. If the person is symptomatic, a sample should be taken for PCR for COVID-19 and the patient should be sent to a designated facility for isolation.
● Installing the contact tracing app “TraceEkee” is encouraged for all tourists.
● Additionally, local health authorities may conduct random testing at no cost to travellers.
● Mandatory restrictions on travel within Maldives for tourists during the COVID-19 pandemic: Tourists should observe the existing Health Protection Agency (HPA) rules and regulations on restrictions on inter island travel. The Ministry of Tourism should continuously update and inform the tourist establishments regarding the travel restrictions imposed by HPA.
● Requirement for tourists to inform the resort if he/she tests positive for COVID-19 upon return from Maldives: All tourists should inform the resort if they test positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of departure from the resort.
What is Included?
All transfer depart from Sigiriya/Polonnaruwa and ended in Arugam Bay/Pottuvil with a licenced national guide driver, all accommodations, full board meals, all entrances fees of National Parks, Forest Reserve & Sanctuary, 4x4 jeep safari games with Rangers as mentioned in the itinerary in Maduru Oya, Galoya & Kumana National Parks with experience 4x4 driver, one Boat Safari in Galoya Nationa Park with Rangers, drinking water, coffee & tea,
What is Excluded?
Additional 4x4 Safari, all chargeable water activities & surf lesson and board rental at your beach property in Arugam Bay, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at some sites, we will let you know, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to your licenced guide driver, Naturalist & 4x4 driver.
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
individual artistic-style
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, drinks & snacks, multiple nature walks, bird watching, cooking class (depend of availability and should be book in advance), 4x4 Afternoon & Morning game drive in Wilpattu National Park, Wilpattu NP Entrance fees, 1 mineral water per person
What is Excluded?
Travel to Wilpattu National Park Camp, tipping and gratuities to guide & team member of the property
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen, torch light, head light
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our local guide accompany by the local NP Ranger will do their best to spot for you the wildlife in their natural habitat and safe ride
ALL YEAR AROUND (ESPECIALLY JULY TO SEPTEMBER TO SEE ELEPHANTS GATHERING)
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Patient, creative Soulfull Art Teacher
Do we accept children
Children will be always welcome
What is Included?
Accommodation, tuk tuk & local bus transfer, full board meals, The right to walk through private tea estates & pionnering tea estate of James Taylors.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kandy, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, need to buy by yourself prior arrival), tipping and gratuities to guide, tracker & team member of the tea. estates bungalows
What is Included?
Accommodation in basic hostel queen or twin bedroom with attached washroom, 2 camps sites with quicktrekker light 2 person tents, fullboard meals, national park entrance fees, 4x4 safari, Boat safari, Gal Oya National park Rangers, 2D1N trek with the Veddah
What is Excluded?
Transfer from/to Wadinagala, Tips and gratuities, Carbonated & alcoholic beverages, Sri Lankan cooking class, additional 4x4 or boat safari (day or night).
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable sturdy water shoes or sandal with ankle strap, Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen. Water bottle.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers. Dietary restrictions should be informed prior this private experience.
Guide
Kayak guide trained in CPR & first aid
Do we accept children
Children below 6 years old won’t be allowed
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Celebrated Sri Lankan mask carving & painting artist from Ambalangoda
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes or sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Mindful & passionate individual guide
What is Included?
Accommodation, transfer in/out Sinharaja North Gate, full board meals, The right to walk through private tea estate.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Sinharaja, sodas and alcoholic beverages (none are available at site, let us know they will arrange it for you), tipping and gratuities to national park guide, & team member of the tea estate bungalow
What to Bring?
Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, change of clothes, comfortable walking shoes. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen, torch light, head light
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our biking local guide will do their best to ensure you are having a clear historical perspective of this visit and safe ride
Day 1 (D)
At your arrival at the camp, you will proceed to your check in and installation. You will get an introduction by one of the surf coach our Friend Fawas who will give you an introduction to the camp and the surf program for the next day, You will get a welcome dinner around 7pm at the camp where you will get the chance to meet the other surfers who are currently here. the rest of the evening free and easy to chill at the camp or walk on the beach or even grab a tuk-tuk to go in town (15min ride) where multiple restaurants, bars run well night time (Don’t forget to get back to the camp not too late as the next morning you will need to be up by 4.30am)
Day 2 (B-L-D)
We wake-up at 4.30am (early bird catches the worm!) for tea/coffee and a banana. Pack a bag of boardshorts or bikini, your brand spanking, suncream and, of course, heaps of enthusiasm, and you’ll be met by your coach who will select a board suitable for your first session. We set off at 5am and travel by tuk tuk to the beach. At the beach we split up in to groups based on your surfing ability so that you’ll be in a group with a handful of other surfers that are at the same level as you. Your coach will spend the first 15 minutes on the sand explaining surf skills and setting a drill to warm you up, and then it’s straight out into the surf. After 90 minutes of surf we head back to the camp for breakfast, juice and post surf chats.
There’s an optional yoga class at 10am then you have the rest of the morning and early afternoon to chill, read, swim, sunbathe or take a walk into town.
We head back to the beach around 2.30 for surf initiation session two. Your first day ends with a feast of fresh Sri Lankan cuisine and some cold beers with us.
Day 3-4 (B-L-D)
Our timetable can vary due to local tides and weather conditions, but we tend to head out at 5am everyday. Meet to grab a banana and a coffee, then we all jump into the tuk tuks and head to the beach. After your morning surf, we have breakfast and yoga then you have until your afternoon theory session to chill. We head back to the beach at around 2.30pm, have 90 minutes in the water and then head back to camp. You can have your dinner.
Day 5 (B-L-D)
It’s usually on day five that you wake up in the morning feeling like you can’t get out of bed, and we know the pain! So day five is a rest day. You can sleep in and spend the day swinging in your hammock, explore the town, relax on the beach, hire a scooter and drive to the jungle or take advantage of our local wildlife, beauty and culture with a drive to Kumana National Park to spot elephants, water buffalo, alligators and hundreds of beautiful birds.
“Let us know in advance we will be able to arrange it for you”.
Day 6 (B-L-D)
After a day off you’ll be feeling refreshed and ready to hit the waves again and we’re back to our 5am surf. Although it can be a little tough pulling yourself out of bed everyone is always glad they did it and nothing beats jumping in the sea for a dawn surf, especially when the sea is empty and the surf is at it’s best. After a big breakfast, there’s yoga and then free time before the afternoon session. Much like the other days we head back to the beach around 2.30pm for a surf and then it’s back to the camp around 5pm. You can have a cold beer then dinner.
Day 7 (B-L-D)
The last day have both surf and theory sessions, yoga and afternoon chilling but since it’s the last night we put on a bit of show for you. Once we are all back at camp after our afternoon surf we meet to watch a photo slideshow of the week surfing highlights and then stay at the camp for our final meal together followed by beers and a beach bonfire.
Day 8 (B)
if you want to surf yourself you can let us know in Friday evening we will arrange you the transport and surfboard, Check out is at 11am but you are welcome to hang at the camp for as long as you want.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleeper, comfortable light clothing.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure.
Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. The more you are the cheaper it is, ratio 1: 6 pax per jeep
Guides
Experience 4x4 driver.
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (if you have a DSLR with one 300mm lense to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money , change of clothes, swimwear, sea sickness tablets, Pareo, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down in the Hill Country (Day 2,3,4,5)
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
For the Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching - We plan to sail rain or shine, so please check the forecast and be sure to dress for the weather. In the event the Captain deems the sailing conditions unsafe, such as thunderstorms or extremely high winds, we will have to cancel it and replace it by another activity or if you extend the beach stay post-poned it another day (no refund).
Seeing whales and any others wildlife (elephant, leopard, sloath bear,...) is never guaranteed. They are the end of the day land & marine mammals that are unpredictable, so it is up to what to show themselves. There is no refund if the wildlife decide not show
If you are prone or unaware you get seasick, you will need to ensure you have sea sickness tablets before departure
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. ONLY for Active Family use to do nature sport, regular nature walk & trek, in chess of pure off beaten track trail, adventureous, nature, wildlife lovers, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
Recommended for
Families, couples, nature & sport enthusiasts, birders & wildlife lover, and adventurous travelers wanting to get away from the mass. This program can be suitable for children 10 years and above if stamina is prepared as the trails surrounding the area, could be a bit challenging as the hike of Adam's Peak is more than 6000 steps (about 6km return).
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 10 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera - Please bring along your DSLR with one 300mm lense minimum to capture wildlife & bird close up will be a necessary), dry bag, money , change of clothes, swimwear, Pareo, water bottle/flask, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), light anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the walk easy to dry fast.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Drone are forbidden to be use on the island without any government approval
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For passionate birder, wildlife lovers, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
- Our Licenced Naturalist National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
- Wilpattu National Park will be accompany with experience 4x4 driver & spotter
Recommended for
Families, couples, especifically for Birder & Wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travelers wanting to get away from the mass with the opportunity to live in various properties design, feel & experience . This program can be suitable for children 8 years as long as the parent are aware than this trip is 100% focus on Bird an wildlife
Be aware: This adventure is focus on looking for birds & wildlife with cultural interaction.
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 8 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
● Tourists will have to undergo an exit screening prior to departure from the place of stay.
● The exit screening questionnaire should document any history of fever or respiratory symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath within the prior 14 days. It should be ensured that the guest is not under quarantine or isolation. Temperature should be checked to exclude fever.
● Routine testing for COVID-19 is not required prior to departure, however during exit screening if any tourist is found to have fever or symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 within the prior 14 days, they should undergo PCR testing for COVID-19.
● Testing services are available in the Maldives for tourists who require Covid-19 test results to return to their countries of origin or another destination.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Our Catamaran accommodation is a perfect choice for those who value a private setting, beautiful scenery and great kiting conditions with personal attention for those who want to escape the shore resort. Great option for group of friends, or couples.As this option remain exclusive in terms of number of rooms, it happen to be easily fully book on peak season
Do not accept children
Most guests are couples and small group of friends. All Kitesurfers enthusiasm & experienced
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, IKO Certified Instructor, transfer from the kite camp to any kite spots
What is Excluded?
Travel to Mannar, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to guide. Private IKO Certified Instructor, kitesurfing equipment rental
We discourage indiscriminate gift giving on our trips. Generally a smile and a respectful attitude are the best gifts you can give. We strongly discourage giving out candy, toys, or pens to children as this can develop a beggar mentality.
Eating is serious business. Sri Lanka’s cuisine is a dream for food-focused travelers for its spice and variety. But there’s an expression that sums up the importance of eating in Sri Lanka: “We ate, we drank, we left” describes the phenomenon of people,
Know your rice and curry & Hopper. ‘Rice and curry’ & hopper are the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine, but this vague label doesn’t do justice to the feast it involves: a medley of food, with multiple small dishes—similar to the Indonesian rijstafel—with endless combinations of sambols (blended spices) and usually meat or seafood. Sri Lankan cuisine was formed by the spice trade.
Go for the combination dishes. Yes, you should skip the ‘English’ breakfasts that most restaurants churn out. But do try the Sri Lanka/British fusion of ‘deviled’ chicken and seafood, and the Sri Lankan-Chinese staple, hot butter cuttlefish: rings of batter-fried cuttlefish, fried in butter and tossed with local spices. Remember Chinese & western cuisine won’t be made as the original recipe back to the mainland
Not forgotten the tea comes sweet. Sri Lanka’s colonial incarnation, Ceylon, was the jewel in Britain’s overseas crown, for its beauty and for the tea plantations that kept the Empire wealthy and watered. The tea trade is still worth 2% of Sri Lanka’s GDP, and tourists come to drink high-quality hot leaf water in the plantation-rich hill country and in posh teahouses in Colombo. But the standard cuppa around Sri Lanka is pretty bland, and by default, served with so much sugar you can stand your teaspoon in it.
What look like my Meals on trip. Breakfasts on trip are usually buffets with a variety of Western and Sri Lanka breakfast foods. There is always coffee, black tea, juice, milk and water. Lunches and dinners in this region are usually family-style, as that is the Sri Lankan way (could be sometime a bit spicy. There will usually be panel of vegetables with several dishes including meat, fish, seafood and rice or noodles, . Sometimes you will have a packed lunch enroute to your next destination. At most remote lodges, drinking water, coffee and tea are provided free-flow. For all camp site/ bivouac, boiled water & tea will be provided and the food will be basic and local.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera - Please briing along your DSLR with one 300mm lense minimum to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money , change of clothes, swimwear, sea sickness tablets, Pareo, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down in the Hill Country
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Drone are forbidden to be use on the island without any government approval
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For nature, wildlife lovers, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
- Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
- Wilpattu, Gal Oya, Kumana, Yala national Park Safari(s) & Sinharaja Forest Reserve Bird Walk will be accompany with experience Naturalist Guide
Recommended for
Families, couples, especifically for Birder & Wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travelers wanting to get away from the mass with the opportunity to live in various properties design, feel & experience . This program can be suitable for children 8 years and above as no challenging hike.
Be aware:This adventure is focus on looking for birds & wildlife with cultural interaction
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 8 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
What to Bring?
Think Trek light and comfortable!Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, water purification tablets (we will cook the water on top of it), toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast (be aware on the trek multiple time in the bushes you have bush spikes can hurt you), one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down pass 1am, but during the day it is extremely hot and dry.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide in excursion. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges.
For only trekker (trained will be a plus) in chess of pure off beaten track trails, adventureous, nature, wildlife lovers couple, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina in chess of nan uniqueless human & wildlife experience remote location & lifestyle.
Do we accept children
Unfortunately the walk is a long way, so we won’t allowed kids to venture in this adventure – minimum age required 12 years old (Trained ONLY)
What to Bring?
Think Trek light and comfortable!
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, water purification tablets (we will cook the water on top of it), toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast (be aware on the trek multiple time in the bushes you have bush spikes can hurt you), one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down pass 1am, but during the day it is extremely hot and dry.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide in excursion. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For only trekker (trained will be a plus) in chess of pure off beaten track trails, adventureous, nature, wildlife lovers couple, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina in chess of nan uniqueless human & wildlife experience remote location & lifestyle.
Do we accept children
Unfortunately the walk is a long way, so we won’t allowed kids to venture in this adventure – minimum age required 16 years old
What to Bring?
Dry Bag, Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected before getting in the water)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Guide
Our Dive master will do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board and at sea to show you a maximum of marine life, so please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need or want to know!
Do we accept children
Children below 5 yrs old will not be accepting in this adventure.
What to Bring?
Change of clothes, swimwear, drybag, towel, sunscreen, hat, waterproof phone case (If you wish to bring your phone on the raft), toiletries, Insect repellent
Things you should know!
Participants must be physically fit and love water drifting sensation
Participants must be in the age of 5 years old to 65 years old.
Child below 12 years old must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. For individual, group of friends or family in chase of swater drifting sensation.
Do we accept children
Unfortunately no children below 5yrs old will be allowed in this adventure
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (if you have a DSLR with one 300mm lense to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money, change of clothes, swimwear, sea sickness tablets, Pareo, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature could go down at the Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
For the Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching - We plan to sail rain or shine, so please check the forecast and be sure to dress for the weather. In the event the Captain deems the sailing conditions unsafe, such as thunderstorms or extremely high winds, we will have to cancel it and replace it by another activity or if you extend the beach stay post-poned it another day (no refund).
Seeing whales and any others wildlife (elephant, leopard, sloath bear,...) is never guaranteed. They are the end of the day land & marine mammals that are unpredictable, so it is up to what to show themselves. There is no refund if the wildlife decide not show
If you are prone or unaware you get seasick, you will need to ensure you have sea sickness tablets before departure.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For nature lover, wildlife & birding watcher & photographer, active family, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
Recommended for
Family, couple, nature enthusiast, birder & wildlife lover wanting to get away from the mass and close to nature. This program can be suitable for children 5 years and above if stamina is prepared as the trails surrounding the area (No challenging trail)
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 5 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
What to Bring?
Pack light and comfortable!
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, water purification tablets (we will cook the water on top of it), toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light shoes, light clothes who dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down pass 1am, but during the day it is extremely hot and dry.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide in excursion. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For back to nature & wildlife lover individual, couple, family or group of friends look for traditional camping getaway fauna snapshot escape Camping remote-less surrounded
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old in perfect health who will share the same tent as the parents
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, light trekking dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers, long pans & shirt as well as short & tshirt, sweater for the cold night, biscuit, very good trekking shoes (Similar as Salomon X trail) & trekking socks.
Things you should know!
Phone coverage is all good to go on day 1 and not existing on day 2. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from your guide. First Aid Kits will be available all the way. Please bring along light warm and waterproof clothing as you will spend your 2 days in outdoor which are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
We will bring some school materials to offer to the kids along the way
ALSO DEPENDING YOUR SENS OF ITINERARY, WE COULD ORGANIZE THIS TRIP ON THE REVERSE WAY (start from the Kirigalpoththa, and on the next day down the bypass road to end by The banbarakanda fall)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Adventureous & Sportive couples, families, children are accepted (No children minimum 12yrs old), groups of friends and others in excellent physical condition and good stamina keen on Trekking & Wildlife in an adventurous setting. We consider this 2d1n to be one of the most epic hiking experience every venturers could desire to experience an off the beaten path and adventurous set-up with long and smooth hike (no big difficulties), wildlife lover & meet the native community
MAXIMUM 8 PERSON PER DEPARTURE
Do we accept children
Unfortunately the walk is a long way, so we won’t allowed kids to venture in this adventure.
IT COULD BE RAINY A BIT MORE OFTEN IN JULY AND AUGUST!
Please list all dietary restrictions and/or allergies prior to your departure, especially if you have critical allergies (nut or wheat). We do our best to convey your dietary restrictions and allergies to our local guides who will relay your information to the chef/cook. In most cases we are able to respond favourably to these requests; however, due to regional limitations, local cuisine or cooking facilities, we may not be able to fulfill all requests. If your dietary needs are critical we recommend you bring a supply of your preferred sustenance to supplement your meals.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, light trekking dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers, long pans & shirt as well as short & tshirt, sweater for the cold night, biscuit, very good trekking shoes (Similar as Salomon X trail) & trekking socks, leeches socks.
Things you should know!
Perfect for all level stamina individual in chess to walk inside some of the unique rainforest trails. Fantastic opportunity to encounter unique species of birds, mammal, reptiles & butterflies.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. For those in chess to spot & snapshot the most number of endemic species of wildlife & birds walking through slippery trails inside astonishing primary and secondary rainforest. All walks within different trails totally adapted to family with children all ages (minimum 5yrs old), group of friends, couple or even individual.
Do we accept children
Yes we do accept children above 5yrs old.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit,
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide. Electricity will be provided only from 6-12pm via solar led light (No electricity empowered by generator), you may need to prepare a torchlight. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 6 pax per departure. (Less than 6 pax supplement will be applies).
Made for adventureous & Sportive couples, families (No children minimum 12yrs old), groups of friends and others in excellent physical condition and good stamina keen on wildlife and canoe river drifting in an adventurous setting. We consider Mahaweli Canoe River Expedition a basic-range mobile tent type accommodation set up every night by yourself (with the help of your guides) by the river side on the selected sites by your guide so it is suitable for those wanting to experience down river in an off the beaten path and adventurous set-up with canoe river drifting, wildlife lover & meet the native community .
Do we accept children
Children below 12 yrs old will not be accepting in this adventure. There are no specific facilities for children during the last 3 days and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for children.
ALL YEAR AROUND (ESPECIALLY JANUARY TO MARCH)
What is Included?
-3D2N: Accommodation, full board meals, 2 x 1.5hrs beginner course surfing session, International accredited surf coaches & beach lifeguard, surfing equipment
-8D7N: Accommodation, full board meals, 10 x 1.5hrs surf coaching, fresh fruit smoothie every evening after surf, 3 theory classes (wet & dry), video feedback after surf, all surf equipment included, surf photographs of you, your transport to and from different surf location ONLY Introduction Surfing Session, International accredited surf coaches & beach lifeguard
What is Excluded?
Travel to the Arugam Bay and the camp, sodas and alcoholic beverages, private surf instructor, tuk-tuk to go to town, Yoga Class tipping and gratuities to surf guide & team member of the property
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers & comfortable walking shoes, swimming clothes (for those want to go dip into the natural pool).
Things you should know!
Both Villages are in marge of the conventional road, the mobile phone signal can be inexistent most of the time, no electricity at the hillside house (only wood cook meals & water). Get into a climatic microcosm & some untouched Montane, Clouds forests where more than 34% of Sri Lanka endemic trees are founds. Open your eyes birds life could be surprisingly intense.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. It should be made aware that Knuckles is very remote and for days one would not have any communication or access to a town. It is not recommended for wee souls but for adventure and experience seekers. A reasonable level of fitness is required for treks in the Knuckles.
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children. No kids allowed below 6 years old.
BE AWARE FOR MORE RAINY DAYS BETWEEN OCTOBER AND MARCH, WHICH AMPLIFY LEETCHES EXPERIENCES!!
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM around, the closest one is at Mannar Town 30KM south), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Couples, families and group of friends who are interested in discovering off the beaten places and local culture. This program also combines the experience of local interaction with alternative activities. Support a community-run tourism initiative in one of the poorest regions in Sri Lanka
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families tend to love rural experience. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit.
Things you should know!
Our guest should be made aware that area surrounding samadhi is mountainous jungle so occasional snakes and scorpions may be found. In rainy weather leeches and cenerpedes are part of the wildlife.
The kukuloya road, which makes up the last third of your journey from kandy , is often the worse for wear, due to torrential rains so be prepared for a rough ride!
A journey to Samadhi Means
Samadhi is more suitable for experience open minded travelers who are tired of ordinary hotels .Normal average travelers searching for common luxuries are not suitable for Samadhi , this is the place to understand sri lankan cuisine heritage ,culture art and history with many authentic antiques all around .
As No Air Conditioning (far cool enough, only organic home – Grown Meals, Regrettably, no wheelchair access, unsuitable terrain for toddlers, many uneven steps and many walking paths to rooms and central dining
Kindly note the uneven terrain, steep paths and access to both rivers make this location unsafe in wet weather to toddlers or small children so though children are most welcome at Samadhi it is entirely at the parents own responsibility.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges.
Do we accept children
Unfortunately this is a chi retreat, so we won’t allowed kids to venture in this EXPERIENCE
Passport
You need a valid passport to travel to Sri Lanka. As a requirement for entry, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your departure date from Sri Lanka. Please check your passport and its expiration date, if it is expires within the 6 months before the departure from Sri Lanka, you ABSOLUTELY MUST renewed your passport
Tourist Visa
A tourist Visa is required for any citizen traveling to Sri Lanka. You will have 2 opportunities to get it, ONLINE Thirty-day visitor visas cost US$25 to US$100, depending on your nationality. Apply in advance online (www.eta.gov.lk) or upon arrival before you will pass the immigration counter, direct yourself to the Tourist Visa Counter to pay the fee in US$ per person. The tourist Visa in Sri Lanka is ONLY valid 1 month
Insurance
Bring along with you copies of your Insurance policy numbers & contacts as well as emergency contact information for your Medical Evacuation Insurance.
DO NOT FORGET to purchased in your country for a Travel Insurance.
Immigration & Customs
As any others countries, each traveler must pass through Immigration & Customs clearance upon their arrival at the Colombo International Airport. Your luggage could be subject to inspection at this time.
Upon departure, each traveller must pass back thought both immigration and custom clearance before leaving the country.
Lost Luggage
Make sure you have been setting up a luggage tag on each of them, as it will be very helpful to identify them as well as getting them back in case of lost luggage.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Perfect place to escape for those who are slightly more adventurous, in chess of meet the local, wildlife & birds watcher and it's biggest selling point is its simplicity.
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families tend to love the rural Mudhouse. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children.
4D3N
Day 1 (L-D)
At your arrival at a lost location by the border of Yala, you will be change vehicule to a 4x4 before drive you top the camp (about 10min drive). At you arrival at the camp, after process of your check in into one of your glamping tent, enjoy a delicious lunch and receive a short briefing as well as an introduction of your adventure & the camp. You will get at least 30 min break for you to walk around the camp to spot some Birds, just take a nap or even enjoy the camp site and its surrounding.
By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP where you could spot Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, wild water buffalo but more than other to be able to spot wildly the Leopard. we will try to avoid the block crowded (Block 1 main entrance which is also the most populated by Leopard) by 4x4 and going to those remote where also wildlife remind wild not yet used to jeep. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala Block 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast. Free time will be given until lunch for anyone of you to spend his time the way each desire by relaxing, reading a (wildlife) book, bird watching.
By 3pm you will head off for another 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP for you to be able to spot some more wildlife you could be encounter on the dusty road. Keep your eyes open, surprises are on the every corner of this magical NP. You will be back to your campside by 6;30pm, refresh yourself, chill with a book in hand before you get to enjoy an amazing dinner. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 3 (B-L-D)
Depart one more time very early in the morning tol embark into your 4x4 jeep for a 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala Block 1 or Block 5, get your gears ready, embraze the moment, get lucky at every corners of the multiples dusty roads can surprisingly encounter any possible wildlife or birds. After your morning ride youw ill be back at the camp for your breakfast from where you will be free and easy for you to chill at your tent, get into one of the kayak, ask if any naturalist could be free to bring you for a walk (if it isnt too hot), or walk around the permise to get some good shoot of some weatherproof birds or mammals.
By 3pm, get in your 4x4 for your last 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP for you to be able to spot some more wildlife you could be encounter on the dusty road. Keep your eyes open, surprises are on the every corner of this magical NP. You will be back to your campside by 6;30pm, refresh yourself, chill with a book in hand before you get to enjoy an amazing dinner. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 4 (B)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala Block 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast then by 10am, we will be transfer out from the bush to get back on our vehicule an continue our journey.
OR
3D2N
Day 1 (L-D)
At your arrival at a lost location by the border of Yala, you will be change vehicule to a 4x4 before drive you top the camp (about 10min drive). At you arrival at the camp, after process of your check in into one of your glamping tent, enjoy a delicious lunch and receive a short briefing as well as an introduction of your adventure & the camp. You will get at least 30 min break for you to walk around the camp to spot some Birds, just take a nap or even enjoy the camp site and its surrounding.
By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP where you could spot Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, wild water buffalo but more than other to be able to spot wildly the Leopard. we will try to avoid the block crowded (Block 1 main entrance which is also the most populated by Leopard) by 4x4 and going to those remote where also wildlife remind wild not yet used to jeep. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 2 (B-L-D)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala Block 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast. Free time will be given until lunch for anyone of you to spend his time the way each desire by relaxing, reading a (wildlife) book, bird watching or even joining one of our Sri Lankan cooking classes (various activities can be arrange for children)
By 3pm you will head off for another 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP for you to be able to spot some more wildlife you could be encounter on the dusty road. Keep your eyes open, surprises are on the every corner of this magical NP. You will be back to your campside by 6;30pm, refresh yourself, chill with a book in hand before you get to enjoy an amazing dinner. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 3 (B)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala Block 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast then by 10am, we will be transfer out from the bush to get back on our vehicule an continue our journey.
OR
2D1N (ONLY AVAILABLE WITH YALA DUNE CAMPS)
Day 1 (L-D)
At your arrival at a lost location by the border of Yala, you will be change vehicule to a 4x4 before drive you top the camp (about 10min drive). At you arrival at the camp, after process of your check in into one of your glamping tent, enjoy a delicious lunch and receive a short briefing as well as an introduction of your adventure & the camp. You will get at least 30 min break for you to walk around the camp to spot some Birds, just take a nap or even enjoy the campsite and its surrounding.
By 3pm you will head off for a 3hrs evening 4x4 game drive within Yala NP where you could spot Sri Lankan elephant, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, wild water buffalo but more than other to be able to spot wildly the Leopard. we will try to avoid the block crowded (Block 1 main entrance which is also the most populated by Leopard) by 4x4 and going to those remote where also wildlife remind wild not yet used to jeep. At your way back to the campsite, refresh yourself away from the dust catch during the ride then chill out at the common area until you join for a dinner where you could mixed with others to share your experience. Rest of the evening free & easy.
Day 2 (B)
Very early in the morning wake up around 5:00am, enjoy some coffee & tea, before your will embark into your 4x4 jeep to depart by 5:30am for your morning 3hrs Sunrise drive into Yala 1 or Block 5 where after engaging your vehicule into the dust road, open your eyes down to the bushes way up to the top of the trees to spot the maximum of wildlife as well as birds. Lucky you will be encounter Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephants, keep yourself aware to cross unique species.
Back to your campside for your breakfast then by 10am, we will be transfer out from the bush to get back on our vehicule an continue our journey.
BE NOTICED: we can arrange any longer lenght of stay in the properties selected (5D4N or longer)
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (if you have a DSLR with one 300mm lense to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money, change of clothes, swimwear, sea sickness tablets, pareo, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down in the Hill Country (Day 1,2,3), raincoat.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
For the Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching - We plan to sail rain or shine, so please check the forecast and be sure to dress for the weather. In the event the Captain deems the sailing conditions unsafe, such as thunderstorms or extremely high winds, we will have to cancel it and replace it by another activity or if you extend the beach stay post-poned it another day (no refund).
If you are prone or unaware you get seasick, you will need to ensure you have sea sickness tablets before departure
Be Aware: Seeing whales and any others wildlife (elephant, leopard, sloath bear,...) is never guaranteed. They are the end of the day land & marine mammals that are unpredictable, so it is up to what to show themselves. There is no refund if the wildlife decide not show
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. ONLY for Active Family use to do nature sport, regular nature walk & trek, in chess of pure off beaten track trail, adventureous, nature, wildlife lovers, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
- Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
- Galoya & Maduru Oya national Park Safari(s) will be accompany with local rangers & experience guides
Recommended for
Families, couples, nature & sport enthusiasts, birders & wildlife lover, and adventurous travelers wanting to get away from the mass. This program can be suitable for children 10 years and above if stamina is prepared as the trails surrounding the Knuckles Range can be strenuous and we
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 10 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers & comfortable walking shoes, sleeping bag (for those decide to go on dome tent stay
Things you should know!
The location of the camp is inside Kumana National Park around 45KM away from the town of Panama, no mobile phone signal, no electricity (genset only for the kitchen to cook ) surrounded by untouched bushes with its wildlife, perfect experience for those want to get back to nature, wildlife & bird watcher lover
Please let us know which type of accommodation you desire to sleep in as the budget isn’t the same but the experience remain similar, let us know we will arrange it following your expectation
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Perfect place to those want to are in chess of pure camping, those want to feel this getaway far from anybody, fully surrounded by absolutely astonishing bushes & mangroves and its wildlife. You are a photographer with its specialist let us know we can arrange something particular for you
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children. No kids allowed below 6 years old. Kids between 6-11 yrs old get 50% off the adult rates
Could be more rainy (November to March) which also to be the best time to Migrant Birding Sightseeing (January to March)
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (if you have a DSLR with one 300mm lense to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money, change of clothes, swimwear, Pareo, water bottle/flask, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night in case temperature drop down and the rain fall, Sleeping bag (15-20 degree), Floor/Yoga Mat
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For nature lover, wildlife & birding watcher & photographer, active family, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
BE AWARE: This trip will depart from Sigiriya/Plonnaruwa Area and will be ended at Arugam Bay/Pottuvil Area.
Guide
Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
Recommended for
Adventurous Family, couple, nature enthusiast, birder & wildlife lover wanting to get away from the mass and close to nature. Willing to experience traditional Camping in various National Parks in simple tent with yoga mat in the middle of the Nature with limited or NO Commodity at all.
This program can be suitable for children 10 years and above if stamina is prepared as the trails surrounding the area (No challenging trail)
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 10 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
You are already a certified PADI open water and you want some more. You always wanted to dive deeper, experience diverses challenging environment and structures as wreck dive or even drift one where big stuff can be spot - upgrade yourself to Advanced Open Water level.
Sample of itinerary for the elearner based on 2 days, can be extend to 3 days
Day 1
Upon arrival at the dive center, get a warm welcome from our team, then get your equipment (make sure it fit well). You will then follow a debrief of the program will happen in the next few days. You’ll plan your learning path with your instructor by choosing from a long list of Adventure Dives. There are two required dives – Deep and Underwater Navigation – and you choose the other three, for a total of five dives. During the Deep Adventure Dive, you learn how to plan dives to deal with the physiological effects and challenges of deeper scuba diving. The Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive refines your compass navigation skills and helps you better navigate using kick-cycles, visual landmarks and time. The other knowledge and skills you get vary with your interest and the adventures you have – photography, buoyancy control, fish identification, exploring wrecks and many more.
When everything chosen, get ready your equipment & hop onto one of our speedboat for your ride to a dive site suit up for your first dive on the way out to the sea. Spend the day doing 3 adventures dives, including Knowledge Review for each chapter. Lunch will be taken at the dive center (excluded). At mid-afternoon, return to jetty followed by transfer to your property
Day 2
Upon arrival at the dive center, get a warm welcome from our team, then get your equipment (make sure it fit well). You will then follow a debrief of the program will happen in the next few days. When everything ready your equipment, hop onto one of our speedboat for your ride to a dive site suit up for your first dive on the way out to the sea. Spend your day completing 2 remaining adventure dives in becoming an Advanced Diver. Upon completion of 2 Core & 3 Elective of your choice, you will be brought back to the dive center to end the rest of the theory after lunch (Excluded). you will be then a certified Advanced Open Water Diver - congratulations! (L)
Please plan for 3 days for your Advance Open Water Diver course in any case (weather condition, slow learner, if not eLearning)
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach apparel, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Dream to live in a glambing tent in the middle of the bushes, for those who are in chess of luxury camping comfort with a real taste of wildlife adventures and 4x4 game drives
Do we accept children Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, light trekking dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers, long pans & shirt as well as short & tshirt, sweater for the cold night, biscuit, very good trekking shoes (Similar as Salomon X trail) & trekking socks.
Things you should know!
This 2 days treks will bring you along 34KM in extremely remote location,
It is an authentic path and way to explore the original & first tea road, no luxury accommodation will be in the surrounded
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. For those research pure trek on authentic tea trail experience crossing paths, tea estates cloud, pygme forests & Bowitiya & Sitha Bushes, ancient & actual settlement tea workers. Only for trekker in chess of get away.
MAXIMUM 8 PERSON PER DEPARTURE
Do we accept children
Unfortunately the walk is a long way, so we won’t allowed kids to venture in this adventure.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit,
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide in excursion. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For Off beaten track mind set, adventureous, nature, wildlife lovers couple, individual, families, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina in chess of luxury accommodation in an unique remote location & lifestyle.
As a low-impact lodge with only 15 chalets, Gal Oya Lodge gets booked up in advance so early reservations is needed especially in the peak months of July-September & December & January.
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old.
ALL YEAR AROUND
What is Included?
Accommodation, transfer all around Mannar Island and mainland, full board meals, daily birding activities
What is Excluded?
Travel to Mannar Island, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to Ornithologist guide, & team member of your property. Massage & Kitesurfing
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), good trekking shoes, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Perfect place to escape for those who desire to have a pure local incursion, not try but work with local in diverse agricultural plantations, get closer with the local in sharing moments of their daily life as well as be able to experience the living into a rare 300 years old mansion kept from the same family. Those who are look for observing birds, Gilemale offer more than 75 species of birds and 9 endemics on sites, set up your gears and venture into various location to spot them
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families tend to love the village feel. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Made for all budget traveller in chess of pure Kitesurfing experience
Do we accept children
Most guests are couples, family and small group of friends.
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, Kitesurfing equipment (during training session), IKO Certified Instructor,
Specifically for 4D3N Beginner Course): 9hrs divided in 3 x 3hrs beginning kitesurfing session
What is Excluded?
Travel to Kalpitya, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to guide. Private IKO Certified Instructor, kitesurfing equipment rental outside the training session
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (if you have a DSLR with one 300mm lense to capture some wildlife & bird close up will be a plus), dry bag, money, change of clothes, swimwear, sea sickness tablets, Pareo, water bottle, toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light trekking shoes (Salomon X trail for example), anti-transpirant socks, light clothes for the treks easy to dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature could go down at the Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage could be sometime not available.
Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
For the Catamaran Sailing Whale Watching - We plan to sail rain or shine, so please check the forecast and be sure to dress for the weather. In the event the Captain deems the sailing conditions unsafe, such as thunderstorms or extremely high winds, we will have to cancel it and replace it by another activity or if you extend the beach stay post-poned it another day (no refund).
Seeing whales and any others wildlife (elephant, leopard, sloath bear,...) is never guaranteed. They are the end of the day land & marine mammals that are unpredictable, so it is up to what to show themselves. There is no refund if the wildlife decide not show
If you are prone or unaware you get seasick, you will need to ensure you have sea sickness tablets before departure.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2 pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For nature lover, wildlife & birding watcher & photographer, active family, groups of friends and others in good physical condition and good stamina.
Guide
Our Licenced National Guide Driver will be welcoming you onboard and will make sure you will be carefully taking care for your first to your last day.
Recommended for
Family, couple, nature enthusiast, birder & wildlife lover wanting to get away from the mass and close to nature. This program can be suitable for children 5 years and above if stamina is prepared as the trails surrounding the area (No challenging trail)
Do we accept children
Minimum age required will be 5 years old Teenager
Responsible Traveler
Be aware that you will be in a reserved area and a sensitive environment. Consider your actions:
Cut out plastic – remove and recycle plastic packaging before coming into the area
Bring rechargeable batteries as disposable batteries leach toxic chemicals as they degrade in a landfill, and recycling facilities are scarce in areas like Sri Lanka
Bring your own water flask (metal will be better) – you can fill up at the eating area instead of purchasing bottled water
If you smoke, never throw your cigarette butts on the ground or in the forest – dispose of them in ashtrays or bins
During outdoor and nature activities, take your cues from the expert local guides. Follow their instructions when observing wildlife. Be aware that you may need to take extra care in these areas to respect the natural environment.
Your personal treatment (if you follow any), first aid kit (betatine, anti-bacterial gel, antiseptic cream, oral rehydration salts, medicinal charcoal, panadol, cough syrup, non woven swab, handsaplast, strap, adhesive plaster, cotton leafs, eyes cleaner), insect repellent and anti-itch ointment, mosquito spray (tropical level), suncream, after-sun cream, Lip Balm (if you have lips sensitive), mini tissue packs (very dusty air), ear plugs (if you are a light sleeper), deodorant, aromatic soap
What to Bring?
Pack light and comfortable!
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, dry bag, money (no ATM), change of clothes, swimwear, water bottle, water purification tablets (we will cook the water on top of it), toiletries, own medical treatment, basic first aid kit, very good light shoes, light clothes who dry fast, one sweater for the night as the temperature goes down pass 1am, but during the day it is extremely hot and dry.
Things you should know!
Cell phone coverage is none available. Satellite phone will be in case of emergency available from the main guide in excursion. Outdoor activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised in the event of bad weather.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. For back to nature & wildlife lover individual, couple, family or group of friends look for traditional camping getaway fauna snapshot escape Camping remote-less surrounded
Do we accept children
Children are will be welcome ONLY above 3 years old in perfect health who will share the same tent as the parents
What is Included?
Accommodation, full board meals, 4x4 jeep safari game ride sunset & sunrise, experience 4x4 driver, Naturalist Guide, drinking water, coffee & tea, National Park entrance fees.
What is Excluded?
Travel to Yala National Park, sodas and alcoholic beverages, tipping and gratuities to guide, National Park Ranger & 4x4 driver
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, light trekking dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers, long pans & shirt as well as short & tshirt, sweater for the fresh night, biscuit, Comfortable & light trekking shoes .
Things you should know!
Perfect for individual, family, group of friends in chess to observe the maximum of migratory birds across the un-explore Mannar peninsular and its mainland where you will be able to spotted multiple large flocks of unique birds species, and maybe can see some loner golden jackal.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. For those in chess to spot & snapshot the most number of migratory species of birds totally adapted to family with children all ages (minimum 5yrs old), group of friends, couple or even individual.
Do we accept children
Yes we do accept children above 5yrs old.
BE ADVISE: Itinerary based on locations / sites visited may vary on daily basis dependent upon the density of species and individuals where the birds are; distance to sites may range from a couple of kms away to as much as 80 kms away from your property
The “off-birding-season” is generally from the month of May through to end-October.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Made for all budget traveller in chess of pure Kitesurfing experience.
Do we accept children
Most guests are couples, family and small group of friends.
Camera(s), lens(es), Go Pro, polarizing filter(s), tripod, lens cleaners/cloths, battery charger(s), extra batteries, extention power strips, extra memory cards, storm camera cover, waterproof camera bag/lens(es), binocular
Don’t forget your lens 300mm minimum for you to snap-shot splendid wildlife/bird all the way of your expedition
Never drink the tap water in Asia. Drink bottled or purified water only. It is available everywhere. At most remote accommodation, boiled or purified drinking water is included and rest assured that this is safe to drink. Some establishments try to limit the consumption of bottled water especially if they are located in a remote area and it is challenging to recycle plastic bottles. It is recommended that you bring your own filter flask as this will greatly help in minimising the usage of plastic bottles. At most tourist accommodation, ice is okay to consume. Practice common sense if you are in remote villages. It’s always a good idea to bring water purification tablets just incase.
What is Included?
Return Boat transfer, full set diving equipment, one PADI dive master or dive instructor to lead you underwater
-Open Water Extra: PADI dive instructor, elearning PADI Open Water Set
-Advance Open Water Extra: PADI dive instructor, elearning PADI Advance Open Water Set
What is Excluded?
Your own drink you desire us to set up in the ice box
What is Included?
-3D2N: Accommodation, full board meals, 2 x 1.5hrs beginner course surfing session,
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM at the camp but have in town), comfortable beach apparel, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Surfing has always been a dream to learn in the proper way from the base to advance move, through yourself into this program, you will be glad after a week to tuition and riding skills to feel free on each wave. Open for absolutely anyone from 7-77years old, individual, couple, group of friends, family in chess of a new fun experience in the most simple way of art
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families tend to love our remote surf camp (15min tuk-tuk away from Arugam Bay town). It is a basic camp offering all facilities needed to spend a good surf beach stay. (Comfortable and basic)
Please list all dietary restrictions and/or allergies prior to your departure, especially if you have critical allergies (nut or wheat). We do our best to convey your dietary restrictions and allergies to our local guides who will relay your information to the chef/cook. In most cases we are able to respond favourably to these requests; however, due to regional limitations, local cuisine or cooking facilities, we may not be able to fulfill all requests. If your dietary needs are critical we recommend you bring a supply of your preferred sustenance to supplement your meals.
Currency
The national unit of currency in Sri Lanka is the rupie (LKR). Currently the change is USD1=LKR160 of course it will vary day to day. We recommend exchanging money on an airport layover, upon arrival at the airport in Colombo or even in your home city (if the currency is available). Most places will accept USD but it will be always much better to pay in LKR.
Banks & Atms
They will be counterless of banks and atm during your journeys in Sri Lanka. Only in certain remote location as Galoya (no bank/atm) in 50KM around, apart of it, we will be always able to find it for you. Be aware certains local banks won’t accept your credit card for any debit (please ask your bank with which local bank(s) they are affiliate).
Please notify your credit card company of your travel plan so charges on your card do not raise suspicion which could result of a blockage of your account.
Hotels/ Shop/Restaurants
For any reasons you will need to pay any expenses, you will be able to pay in credit card in most of the place, cash (USD or LKR).
Money Safety & Theft
When you are away from your belongings, they should be properly secured (lock in your luggage do discourage theft) and if you do have in your hotel room set your precious belonging inside during your daily trip.
As all cities, big as they could be as well as touristic spots, there is always a possibility of theft while traveling. Make sure you carry your belonging under your shirts, be alert of any possibility of con games such as unbeatable bargains and too friendship offers of assistance. Do not travel and show any sign of wealth.
Should you be victim of theft, please immediately notify to your guide/driver guide and/or the property owner/manager as soon as you realize it. Make you sure to obtain a written documentation of the incident for insurance purposes.
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, swimwear, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveler will incur single supplement charges. As a low-impact lodge with very limited villas, Element Beach Nature Resort gets booked pretty much in advance during the peak season
Do we accept children
Most guests are couples, family and small group of friends.
Never drink the tap water in Asia. Drink bottled or purified water only. It is available everywhere. At most remote accommodation, boiled or purified drinking water is included and rest assured that this is safe to drink. Some establishments try to limit the consumption of bottled water especially if they are located in a remote area and it is challenging to recycle plastic bottles. It is recommended that you bring your own filter flask as this will greatly help in minimising the usage of plastic bottles. At most tourist accommodation, ice is okay to consume. Practice common sense if you are in remote villages. It’s always a good idea to bring water purification tablets just incase.
Safely
Most of the sections of your adventure take place in remote areas where urgent evacuation, medical services are very limited, engaged in hiking, safari and exploring areas contain certain inherent risks. If you do not feel comfortable, we invite you in advance to be close to your guide/driver guide and inform her/him about your concerns about the safety.
Wildlife & local animal
You will venture in certain zone occupied by multiples of wildlife species (part of them are not afraid and can be aggressive against the human), stay at safely distance of the animal and follow the instruction given by the National park rangers, natives guides.
Same if you see a cute puppy, please do not touch or even feed any animal (including dogs & cats), even if they look healthy pet, they can carry the rabies and other diseases. If you get bitten or scratched, we will wash gently the wound with soap before rinse it before seeing a doctor.
Physical requirement
It is important that you prepare physically for your trip, especially if your trip is rated moderate to strenuous. Take into consideration the heat or the humidity in the area as well – a short walk sometimes can feel a lot more strenuous simply because you are not used to the weather. Depending of your expectation and desire, please look carefully at each level of difficulty expected on each trekking/hiking trip option proposed on our website.
Each participant must be able to walk without assistance for:
- Easy (0-1*): a minimum of 1.5 miles (2.5km) flat ground with limited elevation.
- Moderate (2-3*): a minimum of 3 miles (5km) over in uneven ground across different climate conditions.
- Strenous (4-5*): a minimum of 5 miles (8km) over in uneven ground across different
climate conditions.
Vaccination before departure
For most short-term travellers the usual recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka include cover against the childhood diseases (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Poliomyelitis, Measles, Mumps and Rubella) as well as cover against the food and water borne diseases of Typhoid and Hepatitis A. For those trekking in the Sri Lankan countryside or staying for longer periods then cover against Hepatitis B and Rabies should be considered.
Each participant should have their initial consultation for vaccinations for Sri Lanka at least 4 – 6 weeks in advance of departure. Those planning a more extensive trip or undertaking adventure sports should consider attending a consultation earlier.
Many tourists to Sri Lanka will stay within the south-western corner of the country or travel inland to Kandy. The incidence of foreign tourists developing Malaria after their time in Sri Lanka is very small. A decision on the requirement for Malaria Prophylaxis will need to be weighed against time of the year, locations to be visited and duration of the trip.
Sri Lanka is situated like a teardrop off the south-eastern tip of India close to the equator. The climate is fairly steady throughout the year with temperatures generally above 20c and a moderately high humidity throughout the year – especially along the coastal resorts. Most rainfall tends to fall during April, May and June and again during October and November. It will be important to ensure that the correct clothing is brought to cope with the climatic conditions.
We pride ourselves on being an environmentally responsible company. We request that on your trip you carry out whatever you carry in, including non-biodegradable items such as batteries, flashlight bulbs, empty plastic containers, and so on. As you pack for your trip, think about ways to minimise the trash that you will have to bring home.
What to Bring?
Dry Bag, Go Pro, change of clothes, sleepers. Camera to capture all of the sights, Some extra cash if you want to purchase souvenirs, Hat, Sunscreen (make sure you are protected before getting in the water)
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 1 pax per departure.
Guide
Our Dive master or Dive Instructor will do their best to ensure you are having a good time on board and at sea to teach you the based at first, to show you a maximum of marine life, so please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need or want to know!
Do we accept children
Children must have at least 10yrs old to be able to attempt to this DSD experience. No prior experience with scuba diving is necessary, but you need to be in reasonable physical health.
You’ll need three kinds of electrical plugs (D, M & G), the D is the most common used. Some rooms have outlets for all three plugs, but sometimes only the D. If you’re holding the wrong plug and you are in Colombo, you can find the right adapter at Pettah market, where there are a bunch of electrical stores with bins full of them. The shopkeepers will even test them for you before you buy.
The very best will be you buy prior your departure one international adaptor and bring along with you a multiple plugs extention for you to be able to connect all your devices in the same time
What to Bring?
Head lamp, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, binocular, dry bag, money (no ATM), comfortable beach appareil, water bottle, toiletries, basic first aid kit, sleepers & comfortable walking shoes, sleeping bag (for those decide to go on dome tent stay)
Things you should know!
The location of the camp is well located between Yala National Park Block 1(North Side more rarely visit than the main Block 1 entrance), Block 5 offering various landscape, jeep gameplay,as well as wilder wildlife to encounter. Perfectly adapted to kids for them to experience their first jeep safari. Its wildlife, perfect experience for those want to get back to nature, wildlife & bird watcher lover
Please let us know which type of accommodation you desire to sleep in as the budget isn’t the same but the experience remain similar, let us know we will arrange it following your expectation.
Departure
Daily based on a minimum booking of 2pax per departure. Solo traveller will incur single supplement charges. Perfect place to those want remote luxury glamping experience, offering extremely attentive service & prestation in an absolutely astonishing surrounded form by bushes. You are a photographer with its specialist let us know we can arrange something particular for you.
Do we accept children
Children are very welcome and families. There are no specific facilities for children and we wouldn't recommend the retreat for very young children. No kids allowed below 3 years old. Kids between 3-5 yrs old get a very special rates rates.
Remember Yala Block 1 will be closed the whole October & November
BE AWARE: Kulu Safaris accept ONLY 2 Nights stay and Longer
Bring contact information for your travel/medical evacuation insurance.
Print a copy of your passport and one scan of the same document in your mobile phone (please check the expiration date).
Print a copy of your flight itinerary and bring it with you.
Leave a copy of your itinerary, passport number, list of emergency numbers as well as your insurance contact details to your friend or relative.
Notify your credit card company & bank(s) of your travel plans.
Review your flight reservation 24-48hrs prior departure to check for any last minute schedule changes.
We pride ourselves on being an environmentally responsible company. We request that on your trip you carry out whatever you carry in, including non-biodegradable items such as batteries, flashlight bulbs, empty plastic containers, and so on. As you pack for your trip, think about ways to minimise the trash that you will have to bring home.
If you are a smoker, we request that you do not smoke in vehicles and at meals. We have asked our guides, drivers, and staff who smoke to follow the same consideration.
Smoking will be forbidden in certain location like Ayurvedha Retreats/places as well as Religious & pilgrim trails/places (Adam Peak, temples, pagoda, mosque, church,...)
If you are a smoker, we request that you do not smoke in vehicles and at meals. We have asked our guides, drivers, and staff who smoke to follow the same consideration.
Smoking will be forbidden in certain location like Ayurvedha Retreats/places as well as Religious & pilgrim trails/places (Adam Peak, temples, pagoda, mosque, church,...)
Get practical in preselecting your clothes at least one week before you leave for you to get a better idea of what you absolutely need or even forget.
Beware of overload packing of things you didn’t wear for ages or even need during your time here. Be objective on what exactly you will need and be comfortable to wear and carry with you during your trip
Due to the extreme difference of temperature & climate you could encounter during your adventure, we highly recommend bringing synthetic & fast drying material clothes (if rain, cotton fabric won’t dry so quickly).
Alcoholic, carbonated and other beverages are at your own expense.
Please be aware than Alcoholic Beverage will be forbidden/prohibited in certain location like Ayurvedha Retreats/places as well as Religious & pilgrim trails/places (Adam Peak, temples, pagoda, mosque, church,...)
Rain jacket or poncho, rain pants, light trekking pants, good hiking boots (Salomon X Trail type – light and fast to dry), pair of sleepers, short sleeved light shirts, long sleeved light shirt, 3-4 pairs of football/hiking socks, 2-3 shorts or zip off pants, 1 sweat shirt (for the cool night), 1 extra pair of comfortable shoes, underwear, lightweight sleepwear, swimsuit
Alcoholic, carbonated and other beverages are at your own expense.
Please be aware than Alcoholic Beverage will be forbidden/prohibited in certain location like Ayurvedha Retreats/places as well as Religious & pilgrim trails/places (Adam Peak, temples, pagoda, mosque, church,...)
Tips are NOT included in the tour. Tipping is at your own discretion, and you are under no obligation. Tips are best paid in cash in local currency or US dollars. but will be greatly appreciated by the guides and captains.
Our guests often ask us whether or not they should tip their guides and captains. You can use tipping to reward exceptional service, particularly for those who go the extra mile and work beyond the normal eight hours day. This will encourage those providing the service to continue doing so for you and others.
For general guidance, you can tip your guide and driver $3 – 5 per person per day. For Specialist Guides/Naturalist, you can double the tipping amount to $5 – 10 per person per day DEPENDING on the expertise, level and quality of service provided.
You can also show appreciation by leaving a TripAdvisor or Google+ review and naming your guide and captain OR fill in a feedback form at the end of the tour or via email (sent to you after the tour).
A compact umbrella, one waterproof cover for your backpack, one small dry bag for your documents and mobile phone, headlamp & small flashlight (usb chargeable will be more efficient), sun hat, quick dry hand towel, outlet adaptor, mobile phone charger, sunglasses (with UV protection), Contact lenses & prescription glasses (if you wear any)
Your personal treatment (if you follow any), first aid kit (betatine, anti-bacterial gel, antiseptic cream, oral rehydration salts, medicinal charcoal, panadol, cough syrup, non woven swab, handsaplast, strap, adhesive plaster, cotton leafs, eyes cleaner), insect repellent and anti-itch ointment, mosquito spray (tropical level), suncream, after-sun cream, Lip Balm (if you have lips sensitive), mini tissue packs (very dusty air), ear plugs (if you are a light sleeper), deodorant, aromatic soap
Camera(s), lens(es), Go Pro, polarizing filter(s), tripod, lens cleaners/cloths, battery charger(s), extra batteries, extention power strips, extra memory cards, storm camera cover, waterproof camera bag/lens(es), binocular
Don’t forget your lens 300mm minimum for you to snap-shot splendid wildlife/bird all the way of your expedition
You’ll need three kinds of electrical plugs (D, M & G), the D is the most common used. Some rooms have outlets for all three plugs, but sometimes only the D.
If you’re holding the wrong plug and you are in Colombo, you can find the right adapter at Pettah market, where there are a bunch of electrical stores with bins full of them. The shopkeepers will even test them for you before you buy.
The very best will be you buy prior your departure one international adaptor and bring along with you a multiple plugs extention for you to be able to connect all your devices in the same time
One distinctive feature of Sri Lankan culture is the way in which ethnicity, language and religious affiliation correlate with one another, each being key determinants of an individual’s identity. Alongside the two largest ethnic groups – Sinhalese (74.9%) and Tamil (15.4%) – the third largest ethnic group is Sri Lankan Moors (9.2%). The remaining 0.5% of Sri Lanka’s population is comprised of Burghers (mixed European descent), Parsis (immigrants from west India) and Veddas (who are identified as the indigenous inhabitants of the land). The Tamils separate further into two groups, Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
Ethnicity and religion are often closely linked in Sri Lanka. In fact, one’s religion is often able to be interpreted from their ethnicity. More specifically, 70.2% of the population identify as Buddhist and are typically of Sinhalese ethnicity, while those who identify as Hindu (12.6%) tend to be ethnically Tamil. Although those who identify as Muslim (9.7%) come from various backgrounds (most being Sri Lankan Moors), they are commonly recognised as a single populace in Sri Lankan society.
The prevalence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka tends to reinforce the dominance of the Sinhalese majority. The Sinhalese elites and parts of the Buddhist Sangha who support Sinhala Buddhist nationalism argue that Sri Lanka is the ‘Dhamma Kingdom’ – the land of Buddhism.
There are three official languages of Sri Lanka: Sinhala, Tamil and English.
Using Your Hands in Sri Lanka
Like many people in the world, Sri Lankans don't use cutlery, instead eating with the fingertips on their right hand. For travelers who don't want to do the same, most restaurants will offer cutlery if you ask politely. But don't cause a fuss – join in the fun!
It's polite to use your right hand when shaking hands or handing money and small objects to someone else. Of course, you can use both hands for something large and heavy.
Respecting Buddhist Culture in Sri Lanka
Buddhism is the main faith in Sri Lanka, and more than 70% of the population is Buddhist. The remaining population follow Hinduism, Islam or Christianity.
Never touch or pat the top of the head of a Buddhist monk, including young children at temples. As religious leaders of the community, they are to be respected.
Do not turn your back to (or be alongside) a statue of Buddha that is nearby. If in doubt, look at the behavior of the locals around you. This includes posing for photos; it's okay to take a photo of a statue, but anyone in the photo should be facing Buddha, not standing beside or with their back to the statue.
Don't wear any clothing that features Buddha or any other deity. It might be considered disrespectful and insensitive, could incur the wrath of authorities, possibly leading to arrest.
Always be polite to monks, offer them a seat if you're on a crowded bus (unless you're elderly or disabled). If you're entering a temple, cover your shoulders and legs, and remove footwear and headwear before heading inside. The same attire rules apply to Hindu temples. You should also, always remove your shoes before entering someone's home.
Social Etiquette Tips in Sri Lanka
Public displays of affection (PDA), such as kissing and/or hugging, may be frowned upon. In Sri Lanka, PDA is considered to be private behavior but is generally acceptable at functions and establishments for adults (such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties). Allowances are made for travelers, and holding hands and affection between parents and their children are allowed.
Public nudity is illegal in Sri Lanka. So, if you were hoping to skinny dip and sunbathe nude or topless, stick to the private beach resorts which allow it (but ask first to avoid embarrassment).
LGBTQ travelers should be aware that same-sex relations are still illegal in Sri Lanka.
Our best advice? Behave as the locals do, learning from them is the best way to avoid offending someone, and potentially getting into trouble.
Be cautious when operating Drones! You must Obtain requisite approval for operating any Drones devises anywhere in the island (Operations of Drones in Sri Lanka requires approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka. For details of the requirements,
We discourage indiscriminate gift giving on our trips. Generally a smile and a respectful attitude are the best gifts you can give. We strongly discourage giving out candy, toys, or pens to children as this can develop a beggar mentality.


