Detailed Trekking Itinerary
Day 1
Day 01 - Airport – Sigiriya (160 kms / Approx. 4 hrs)
SCHEDULE
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Arrival to Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Sigiriya.
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Check in to a hotel.
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Leisure time and relaxing after a long journey.
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Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in Sigiriya (HB).
Day 2
Day 02 - Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya (120 kms / Approx. 2h30)
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the hotel.
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Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa.
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Return to the hotel.
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Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Sigiriya (HB).
In the morning, you will visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a royal citadel built by the young King Kasyapa in 5th century. Combining baffling architectural features and sensual artistic values, the Lion Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as nominated to be the eighth wonder of the world — along with the Grand Canyon and Ancient Pyramids.
From Sigiriya, you will proceed to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa, that was the Capital of Sri Lanka from 11th to 13th century. The ancient city defended by enclosing walls, is dotted with palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes that are in a resplendent state of preservation.
Day 3
Day 03 - Sigiriya – Knuckles Range (80 kms / Approx. 2h30)
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the hotel.
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Transfer to Riverston.
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Check in to the fully serviced Mahoora campsite.
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Lunch at the campsite.
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Nature trail (partly by car if you wish) in the afternoon.
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BBQ dinner and overnight stay at the campsite (FB).
Surrounded by the Mount Riverston and Pitawala Pathana, Eco Team's Mahoora campsite is situated in the most serene surroundings on an abandoned tobacco cultivation, right below a beautiful little spring-fed lake.
After a delightful Sri Lankan lunch, you will be taken for a 10-12 km trail through paddy fields, small forests and villages to experience a rural way of life. Along the way, you will see also Pitawala Pathana, the largest dry pathana plain in the island, with the breathtaking precipice that has a sheer drop of about 1500 ft to the Puwakpitiya Valley below.
On your return, you may take a refreshing bath in the crystal clear brook before a hearty barbecue meal in a magical setting - the whole area is lit up with traditional flame torches and a roaring campfire.
Day 4
Day 04 - Knuckles Range
SCHEDULE
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Wake up to the singing birds.
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Breakfast at the campsite.
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Half or full day trek in Knuckles Range.
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Dinner and overnight stay at campsite (FB).
TREKKING DISTANCE: Several options available
GRADING: From soft to hard
Early morning, by the time of the first sparks of sunlight, is the ideal time for bird watching, and the various species can be spotted right next to the campsite. After a short birding trail, the breakfast will be served at a time convenient for you.
For the day, you may choose the best suitable option among the various treks, from short nature trails to full day hikes. Or take it easy, enjoying the tranquility and the gorgeous sceneries by just being there.
Day 5
Day 05 - Knuckles – Kandy (60 kms / Approx. 2h30)
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the campsite and transfer to Kandy.
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Visit Temple of Tooth Relic.
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Check in to the hotel.
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Nature trail in Udawatta Kele Forest Sanctuary in the evening.
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Overnight stay in a hotel in Kandy (BB).
Kandy, the capital of the Central province is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strategically nestled amidst three mountain ranges and known as the gateway to the hill country, Kandy was initially built in this location as a natural fortress against attack as it was not an easy target for the foreign invaders. Nowadays, the city of Kandy is well known as one of Sri Lanka’s best attractions among both local and international visitors.
The 104 hectares large, Udawatta Kele is known as a birder’s paradise with its plethora of bird species and easy accessibility. It is home to species such as the Layard’s parakeet and yellow-fronted barbet. Many nocturnal birds including the brown fish owl can be spotted here too. Apart from the birds the forest is also home to other animals including toque macaque, wild boar, fishing cat and water monitor lizards. There are around 460 plant species in this forest which makes it an important site for botanists and researchers.
Day 6
Day 06 - Kandy – Kitulgala – Nallathanniya / Maskeliya (120 kms / Approx. 4 hrs)
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Kitulgala.
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White Water Rafting in the River Kelani.
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On conclusion, transfer to Nallathanniya / Maskeliya, near Adam’s Peak.
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Check in to the guest house.
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Dinner and overnight stay in a guest House in Nallathanniya / Maskeliya (HB).
The lush and humid climate makes Kitulgala an ideal destination for whitewater rafting. The thrilling adventure on the whitewater sections of the Kelani River is enjoyable for both beginners and professionals. Whether you are 11 or 75 years, our well-experienced guides will make sure you have a safe and fun day on the river! Prior to the two-hour river run, you will be given instructions paddling techniques and river rescue procedures.
About Kitulgala:
Kitulgala, located in western Sri Lanka, is considered to be one of the most important holdings of the country’s biodiversity. Recently, Kitulgala has started attracting outdoor enthusiasts to its beautiful setting, used in 1956 for the filming of the Academy Award-winning 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'. Trek along its nature trails and forests ideal for bird watching, or go canyoneering through rocky gorges.
Day 7
Day 07 - Adam’s Peak
SCHEDULE
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Begin the arduous 5 km climb to the misty mountain top early in the morning with a well-experienced guide and packed breakfast.
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Witness the magnificent sceneries from the top of the mountain.
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Return to Nallathanniya / Maskeliya.
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Optional excursion (2 to 3hrs) to a local tea estate in the afternoon.
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Dinner and overnight at the guest house in Nallathanniya / Maskeliya (HB).
DISTANCE: 5 km / 5,500 steps
DURATION: 3 to 4 hrs to the summit depending on the season
GRADING: Moderate / Hard
The island's fourth highest peak at 2243 meters, Sri Pada, also known as Adam’s Peak, has been a pilgrimage site for more than 1000 years and it offers spectacular views of jungle-covered hills and clouds lying 500 meters below. The memory of a magical sceneries over the mystic peak will outlive the aches and pains you may feel from the climb!
Legend has it that the mountain features a footprint originally made by the Buddha on his third visit to the island. Some Christians believe it may be the spot where Adam first set foot on earth after he was banished from the Garden of Eden. Others claim it to be the footprint of St. Thomas, the Apostle. Hindus believe it to be Lord Shiva’s footprint.
The majority of climbers begin the ascent at night to witness the magical sunrise from the summit. The pilgrimage season runs from Unduwap poya (Full Moon Day of December) to Wesak poya Festival (in May). At this time, there is a constant stream of pilgrims and the top can get very crowded, and especially from January to February. Climbing Sri Pada is possible during the off-season too. However, due to the weather conditions, we recommend to climb the mountain in daytime only.
Day 8
Day 08 - Nallathanniya / Maskeliya – Bogawantalawe – Galpothuthenna
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the guesthouse and transfer to the starting point of the day's trek.
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Full day trek from Bogawantalawe to Galpothuthenna.
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Packed lunch in a suitable location on the way.
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Transfer from Galpothuthenna to Eco Team’s Adventure Center in Belihuloya.
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Dinner and overnight stay River Garden Resort / Kinchigune Camps in Belihuloya (FB).
TREKKING DISTANCE: 18 km (from Bogawantalawe to Galpothuthenna)
DURATION: 8 - 10 hours
GRADING: Hard / Moderate
The trail from Bogawantalawa to Galpothuthenna takes you through the most diverse landscapes: forests, jungles, tea plantations, grasslands, desolate areas, changing vegetation types, and spectacular landscapes. The 18-km trail begins by the tea plantations in Bogawantalawe and climbs up steep jungle terrains to flatter grasslands. This open landscape is similar to the sceneries of the famous Horton Plains, located at a higher elevation. Here, look for prints of leopards and sambhur deers, or with luck you may spot the animals themselves.
From the grasslands, the trail continues through scrub jungles to the Non-Pareil tea estate, pass tea farmers’ houses, home gardens and a small nursery school before taking you across the Belihuloya River. These peaceful surroundings by fresh water provide you with a beautiful location for a lunch break.
After lunch, the trail descents through tea plantations to a sparse and rocky area before continuing through a forest that is home to many monkeys and birds. Here, the descent is rather steep and offers the most panoramic views of the surrounding region. Finally, the trek leads you through a dense pine tree plantation before ending at the small village of Galpothuthenna, a short drive from Belihuloya.
Day 9
Day 09 - Belihuloya
SCHEDULE
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After the breakfast start the Kinchigune nature trail with packed lunch.
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Canoëing in Samanalawewa in the afternoon.
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Dinner and overnight stay at River Garden Resort / Kinchigune Camps (FB).
TREKKING DISTANCE: 6 km (from River Garden Resort to Kinchigune)
DURATION: 3 hrs
GRADING: Soft / Moderate
Kinchigune is an ancient village which is almost totally submerged in the waters of the Samanalawewa Reservoir which came to being in 1980s. The people of this village have been engaged in the steel industry in addition to agriculture since the early days. The 6 km nature trail begins at the River Garden Resort, and runs alongside the riverine forest of Belihuloya through paddy fields, across rivers, and past local village houses and their extensive vegetable plots. It is an ideal opportunity to learn a bit about the local agriculture and simple way of life in the countryside. Along the way, you will witness several types of beautiful birds and butterflies and some charming little waterfalls. The trail ends where the Belihuloya river meets the Samanalawewa reservoir.
Surrounded by rugged mountain sceneries, the still calm waters of the Samanalawewa offer an idyllic location for canoëing. Whether you want to go for a relaxed little paddle for a couple of hours, venture out to the mouth of the Belihuloya River or spend an entire day exploring the perimeter of the reservoir, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. A well-experienced guide will provide you with the right technics, safety instructions and modern life jacket.
Day 10
Day 10 - Belihuloya
SCHEDULE
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Start the trail from Kinchigune village at 6.00 am.
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Lunch in a suitable location along the trail.
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Dinner and overnight stay at a participatory campsite by a river.
TREKKING DISTANCE: 12 km starting from Kinchigune
DURATION: 5 - 7 hrs
GRADING: Moderate / Hard
The trail starts in the small village of Kinchigune, overlooking the Samanalawewa Reservoir. You will venture through paddy fields and vegetable gardens to a narrow gravel road that takes you to a small village school and local blacksmith's workshop. From there, you will continue to a tarred road, surrounded by typical shrub vegetations (consisting mainly of 'Maliththa' - Woodfordia fruticosa). After a couple of kilometers, you will arrive in a Buddhist Temple. This 350-year-old wooden temple is well worth a visit, and the local monks will happily answer your questions about it’s history.
The trail will then take you through uninhabited forests to Walawe River and to the rocky lands across it. Apart from some small groups of local gem miners, it is rare to meet any people in this desolate area that is home to many animals and birds - such as sambhur deer, Indian munjak, flying and giant squirrels, changeable hawk eagle, brown fish owl, stork-billed kingfisher, gray hornbill, and various species of lizards and butterflies. Sometimes, even the migratory elephant can be spotted here.
The campsite will be set by the river, where you can have lunch and enjoy a refreshing dip in cool water. The dinner will be cooked by the campfire, in the most beautiful setting under the stars! And your guides, taking care of the lookout duty, will assure you a peaceful sleep throughout the night.
Day 11
Day 11 - Belihuloya – Yala (100 kms / Approx. 2h30)
SCHEDULE
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Early breakfast at the campsite.
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Continue the trail to Duwili Ella.
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Lunch and transfer to Yala.
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Check in to the Big Game safari campsite in Yala.
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Dinner and overnight stay at the Big Game campsite (HB).
TREKKING DISTANCE: 8 km ending by Duwili Ella Waterfall
DURATION: 3 - 4 hrs
GRADING: Moderate / Hard
After decamping in the morning, the trek will continue in the cool shade of riverine forests to 'Thunkinda' where the river divides into three streams that rejoin after about 300 metres. The 100 kms trail will end by the majestic Duwili Ella, also known as the 'Walawe Ganga Falls'. It plunges a dramatic 25 meters into a large deep pool creating a misty cloud. Hence the name 'Duwili Ella' - in Sinhalese 'Duwili' means 'dust' and 'Ella' is 'waterfall').
These impressive sceneries offer a perfect setting for a delicious lunch, brought fresh from our River Garden Restaurant in Belihuloya. Before the departure to Yala, you may enjoy an invigorating river bath too.
Day 12
Day 12 - Yala – Galle (200 kms / Approx. 4h30)
SCHEDULE
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Early morning safari in the Yala National Park with packed breakfast.
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Return to the campsite and transfer to Galle.
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Check in to a hotel.
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Overnight stay at the hotel in Galle (BB)
Yala National Park, situated in the southeast region of the country, covers almost 1000 square kilometers and is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, along with Wilpattu, it is one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants as well as to the spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal and mongoose. The bird life is also fantastic, and numerous species such as rosy starlings, paradise flycatchers, crested hawk eagles, blue-Tailed bee-eaters and common loras inhabit this natural wilderness.
Day 13
Day 13 - Galle
SCHEDULE
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Breakfast at the hotel.
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Leisure time in for shopping or relaxing on the beach.
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Visit the Galle Fort.
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Overnight stay at the hotel in Galle (BB).
Today, you will have a whole day free for exploring the historical sights or relaxing on the beach, depending on your mood.
The bustling provincial capital and administrative center of the south, Galle, was Sri Lanka's first international commerce and trade center. The ancient port city is famous for Unawatuna Bay, a lovely cove protected by a reef. The Galle Fort overlooking the ocean is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese in 1587 and reinforced again by the Dutch. The 36-hectare fortress is surrounded on three sides by the ocean, its ramparts protecting the harbour, old houses, churches, warehouses and the Arab quarter. Even as the city of Galle modernizes, its remarkable collection of ancient structures transports visitors to another time.
