+44 203 048 3044 Agent login
From £3416 pp*
Request Availabilty
See more photos

Ultimate Sri Lanka Off the Beaten Track

Highlights

  • Stunning must-see cultural highlights at Sigiriya and Dambulla
  • Beautiful hikes through jungles, farms and forests
  • Spectacular wildlife at remote Gal Oya National Park
  • Authentic experiences with a local guide
  • Amazing boutique eco hotels
  • Picturesque Sri Lankan beaches
From £3416 pp*
Trip Dates
Please select
Trip Dates
Please select
Guests
Please select
Room #
Adults
12+
- +
Children
2 -11
- +
Add room
Done
Guests
Please select
Request Availabilty

14 nights

Trip Dates
Request Availability'

Trip Dates

Please select
Clear dates
Done

Guests

Room #
Adults
12+
- +
Children
2 -11
- +
Add room
Done

What you'll do

Overview

This adventure is perfect for couples or families with older children who want to explore Sri Lanka in a truly authentic way. The itinerary showcases the variety of Sri Lanka’s nature and wildlife, packed with experiences and cultural highlights that are not to be missed!

From the moment you touch down on your Sri Lankan adventure, you can relax and soak up the incredible sights, flavours, and culture of this gem of an island, thanks to your local guides, drivers and hosts, who will ensure everything is taken care of.

Tour Summary:
Day 1 Negombo
Day 2 & 3 Pallepola
Day 4 & 5 Gammaduwa
Day 6 – 8 Gal Oya
Day 9 & 10 Wellawaya
Day 11 – 13/14 Arugam Bay (depending on the time of year)
Day 14 Galle (Summer Months Only)
Day 15 Departure

When you land in Negombo, you will be met at the airport and taken straight to your tranquil hotel, situated on the edge of a gorgeous lagoon where you can relax, refresh, and get ready for your adventure of a lifetime in Sri Lanka.

Your next stop is a villa set in the heart of a 50-acre eco-farm, nestled in the countryside under lush forests and rolling hillsides where elephants roam freely. Here, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in authentic Sri Lankan rural culture, as you can learn about day-to-day life on an eco-farm.

Whilst here, visit the renowned ‘cultural triangle’, and join a guide who will lead you to jaw-dropping fortresses atop 200m rocks, as well ancient temples hidden deep in the jungle.

From there, it’s time to start your days of trekking, setting off from the small village of Andawala and following your guide along trails only the locals know, passing by magnificent mountain views and sleepy villages far off the beaten track.

At the end of your trek, you’ll reach a little relic of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, a little hillside bungalow nestled in tea country, where you’ll rest and stay for the next couple of nights. During your time here you can go out and discover what life in the tea plantations is like, go swimming under cascading waterfalls, or make the most of the brilliant local hiking or mountain biking trails.

After leaving Gammaduwa, you’ll head to Gal Oya National Park, and stay in an incredible wildlife lodge in the very heart of the park. Spend your time here heading out on game drives to spot wildlife, enjoying boat trips on Sri Lanka’s largest lake where you can see elephants bathing, and drinking in the wild, off the beaten track setting of the lodge.

Eventually you’ll leave this wonderful wildlife haven and head for a truly unique place to stay, an agro eco-retreat where you’ll be able to experience authentic farming, an important part of Sri Lankan culture, and the countryside, whilst enjoying your luxurious surroundings.

Finish your Sri Lankan adventure with three days relaxing on stunning white sand beaches, and reflecting on a travel experience that will stay with you forever.

*pp price based on travel for 2 people between 1st Sept 2025 until 31st October 2025. For larger groups or solo travellers please enquire directly to hello@nitgb.com

*Please note
All accommodation will be reserved at time of booking. Depending on availability there may be changes to similar accommodation.
This is a private itinerary but on some experiences throughout the tour you may join a small group.

Arrival in Negombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka! You will be picked up from the airport and we will transfer you to the hotel.

Spend the day acclimatising to the country and get ready for your amazing Sri Lankan adventure.

Relax by the pool or swim in the sea, or take a leisurely stroll around the hotel and explore the nearby old Dutch Canals.

Accommodation: Villa Hundira

Meals: None

Transfer to Pallepola

After a delicious breakfast, your driver will take you to Pallepola, your base for your visits to the awesome sites of the cultural triangle. (around 3 hour drive).

The property you’ll be staying at is a 50 acre organic farm with stunning mountain views. Today you’ll explore the organic farm, learning about the day to day life on the farm, seeing the banana trees, coconut palms, papaya trees and more – it is an amazing place to walk around.

Take a walk through the farm, learning about the organic methods of cultivating coconuts, bananas and other crops on the farm, including black pepper, mangoes, papaya, cinnamon, coffee and cocoa, you can take a fun tuk tuk ride around the local village or borrow a bicycle to see Sri Lankan village life first hand.

You’ll also learn about the positive impact the Villas have on the local environment and community, as they provide fresh fruit and vegetables to help boost the economy of the local village, and use almost entirely renewable energy to keep the site running.

Accommodation: Jim’s Farm Villas

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Cultural highlights at Sigiriya and Dambulla

After breakfast at the hotel you will begin your exploration of  the cultural triangle, starting with Sigiriya in the early morning to avoid the crowds.

Today you’ll head south to Sigiriya and Dambulla. Though you may have see many pictures of ‘Lion Rock’, nothing can quite prepare you for the real thing.

Sigiriya, the 5th century “Fortress in the Sky” is perhaps the most jaw-dropping single wonder on the island. It’s known as Lion Rock because it was said there was a huge lion that used to stand at the entrance to the Palace, on the summit of the 600-foot high rock.

The walk to the summit leads you on paths and staircases through some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world, past pools, statues, carvings and caves with ornate frescoes. There are plenty of stopping places on the ascent where you can admire the stunning panoramic views.

Once you reach the summit you can still find the foundations of the Royal Palace, which you will explore with your guide and learn the many fascinating stories about what took place in this incredible location.

Lunch is at your leisure at the hotel before we head to Dambulla Cave Complex, the largest and best-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. We spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the cave complex, and its many statues and paintings before heading back to the hotel for dinner.

In the evening you might like to check out the hotel’s Ayurvedic massage facilities!

Accommodation: Jim’s Farm Villa 

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Hike to Gammaduwa

After breakfast, you will check out of your villa and take a short transfer (30 minutes) to the small village of Andawala, where your guided hiking trail for the day begins.

Your hike starts along tiny village paths before you travel across small paddy farms and you will walk along irrigation streams for the first 2 kilometers before turning off into the forest.

Then you will continue your journey through areas of forest interspersed with pepper farms until you reach the tiny village of Hanguranketa. Here, you will take a short break and refill your bottles before the next stretch. The remaining hike is on rugged jeep tracks until you reach the forest bungalow.

The hiking terrain is not challenging and is around 8 kilometers, it can always to amended depending on your ability or how you are feeling about the hike today. Your driver will be on hand if you would like to take a shorter walk.

Accommodation: Gammaduwa Bungalow 

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Exploring Gammaduwa

Your wonderful Bungalow is located on its own tea estate, which you’re free to explore at your leisure today. After breakfast, spend the day exploring the local walking or biking trails, go for a swim in a beautiful waterfall, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

You’ll also be able to spend time with your host, plucking tea and learning about how tea is made in their own small boutique tea factory – a real authentic experience not to be missed.

Accommodation: Gammaduwa Bungalow 

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Gal Oya Lodge

Today, head to famous Gal Oya Lodge, located in Gal Oya National Park, one of the most untouched of all national parks in Sri Lanka, and the only one where you can take a boat safari on the largest lake in Sri Lanka, and, if you are lucky, see elephants swimming  and  crocodiles basking.

On the way there you will  break up the journey with a visit to a waterfall for a refreshing swim and a delicious lunch made with local produce from the nearby village.

The Gal Oya Lodge is a stunning eco wildlife resort and is your base for the next 3 nights. Your days will be wildlife-focused with game drives, boat drives, walks and more! Spot elephants, cruise on Sri Lanka’s largest lake, or head out on a jeep safari with an expert guide to really make the most of this incredible, untouched setting.

Take your time enjoying this natural paradise, explore with your guide from the the Vedda tribe, one of the last remaining communities of the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka, enjoy guided hikes to stunning viewpoints over the jungle, take a cooling swim in the river.

Accommodation: Gal Oya Lodge

Meals: Breakfast and dinner (Lunch included on day 6 and 7)

Wellawaya

You’ll now move from the jungle to a deluxe eco-agro resort for the next 2 nights, nestled amidst the paddy fields and rolling hills with stunning views. 

For centuries, agriculture has shaped the way of life for civilisations across Sri Lanka. Villages such as the one you are to visit were home to farmers who have inspired a the simple, wholesome life. Farmers are also held in high regard for their service to these traditional lands, once thriving with a culture that represents the heart of Sri Lankan hospitality.

You’ll stay at an icon of agro-tourism, which continues to embody this legacy within luxury accommodation in Wellawaya. Modelled on a traditional village home, your stay will be an authentic yet luxurious look into the life of the rural communities that have made their homes here for centuries, and is a truly unique place to stay. 

There is much to do here, from touring the farm and visiting waterfalls to exploring local villages and historical sites, bird watching, cycling or going on safari to spot leopards and elephants. Your host will advise you and make recommendations about activities for you to do each day.

On day 10 you will take a visit to Diyaluma Falls which will include a picnic lunch.

Accommodation: Jetwing Kaduruketha

Melas: Breakfast and dinner (Lunch included on day 10)

Relax and enjoy the wonderful Sri Lankan coast

Summer (April to October): 
Days 11 – 13 will be spent on another side of Sri Lanka, far east from the cacophony of Colombo. This sandy stretch of pristine coastline rests upon the Indian Ocean, where in the mornings you will wake to the serene sounds of crashing waves. In Pottuvil, where hotels and villas dot an unexplored shoreline flourishing with natural wonders.

You will spend the next 3 nights here relaxing your way; surfing, swimming, exploring the wild jungles nearby, in the nearby town you will find bars shops and restaurants.

Accommodation: Kottukal Beach House
Meals: Breakfast

On Day 14, you’ll leave the calm of the beach and slowly make your way back to the west coast for your final night in Galle’s old town which is one of Sri Lanka’s great monuments to the island’s rich history. Each of Galle Fort’s narrow streets, lined with evocative centuries-old villas, atmospheric churches and ochre spice warehouses, recounts the past.

You’ll stay in the must-see iconic Galle Fort – the perfect spot to spend your last night in Sri Lanka. Walk around the ramparts, grab a drink in one of the trendy bars and enjoy a delicious meal before your departure the next day.

Accommodation: Fort Bazaar
Meals: Breakfast

On day 15, you will be transferred back to the airport in time for your return flight home.

Winter (November to March):
If you’re travelling in the winter months, days 11 – 14 will be spent by the stunning beaches of Ahangama for your last four nights of complete relaxation. Indulge in a treat to the senses as the gentle breeze enfolds you and the warm rays kiss your skin at one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking seaside villages!

Accommodation: Mosvold Villa
Meals: Breakfast

On Day 15, you’ll leave the calm of the beach and make your way back to the west coast for our departure.

 

What's included

Included

  • Private transfers in airconditioned vehicle with a driver/guide
  • 14 nights Accommodation with Breakfast
  • 2 picnic lunches
  • All entrance and activity fees for experiences listed in the itinerary
  • Water & refreshments during the activities
  • Organic farm tour with a local guide in Pallepola
  • Guided tour of Sigiriya
  • Exploration of Dambulla Cave Complex with a local guide
  • Guided hike from Andawala to Gammaduwa
  • Authentic tea plantation tour with a local
  • Game drives, boat trips and wildlife walks at Gal Oya Lodge
  • A unique stay at an agro-eco retreat in Wellawaya
  • Free time to relax and explore Sri Lanka's coast
  • 1 night Negombo HB*
  • 2 nights Pallepola HB
  • 2 nights Gammaduwa HB
  • 3 nights Gal Oya HB
  • 2 nights Wellawaya HB
  • 3/4 nights Pottuvil or Ahangama (depending on the time of year) BB*
  • Day 14 Galle (Summer Months Only) BB
  • *BB - Breakfast included
  • *HB - Breakfast and dinner included

Accommodation

Villa Hundira (or similar)

Located just half an hour away from the airport but situated beside a tranquil lagoon lined with palm trees, Villa Hundira is an exceptional stylish villa with excellent food and service. There are two pools, spa, bar and views out to sea and thoughtfully designed corners to sit and relax.

The perfect quiet slice of paradise for you first day in Sri Lanka.

Jim’s Farm Villas (or similar)

Jim’s Farm Villas is a unique group of luxury boutique villas and yoga retreat with an Ayurvedic spa, set on a 50-acre eco-farm between Kandy and Dambulla.

It is a working eco farm and the villas are scattered around the stunning setting amongst fruit trees and palms. Enjoy the fresh mountain breeze at the restaurant, have a dip in the outdoor pool or relax and have a drink at the bar.

Meals are generally a communal affair with the owner Kevin hosting three course dinners made with locally sourced ingredients, though you can opt to dine privately.

Gammaduwa Bungalow (or similar)

The bungalow lies in 7 acres of tea estate land with glorious mountain views, with the opportunity for hill country tea trail walks or mountain biking.

The luxurious guest house accommodation offers superb Sri Lankan food cooked in traditional ways within a tranquil rural village environment.

The property features a garden and inner courtyard with views, outdoor dining area, guests can relax in the on-site bar or lounge or play darts at the guest house.

Gal Oya Lodge (or similar)

Located in Galgamuwa, Gal Oya Lodge is a unique Sri Lanka ecolodge spread across 20 acres of private jungle.

There is a lovely terraced garden an outdoor pool, fireplace and restaurant serving Asian and international cuisine made with fresh local ingredients and snack bar.

Jetwing Kaduruketha ( or similar)

Blending into the paddy fields that make up a large portion of the property, the dwellings are a tasteful juxtaposition of comfort and sustainability. The vegetable garden on site promotes the ‘field to fork’ concept, providing fresh produce straight to the hotel’s kitchens and the renowned restaurant serves delicious authentic and international recipes.

There is an outdoor pool and views of the mountains and paddy fields and even a spa to enjoy. You will be assigned a personal butler who will be happy to arrange a variety of activities for you to take part in.

Kottukal Beach House ( April - October) or Mosvold Villa (November - March)

Summer: April to October: 
Nights 11 - 13: Accommodation: Kottukal Beach House (or similar)
Nestled amidst a sprawling coastal estate of coconut trees is Kottukal Beach house, a plush hideaway close to the world-famous surfing hotspot of Arugam Bay. There is a pool onsite and massages, yoga and ayurveda treatments are available on request.
Guests can dine overlooking the garden and sea or dine on the beachside.
Arugam beach is a seven hour drive from the airport and so on the last day you will travel to Galle for your last night and take a shorter two hour transfer to the airport on departure day.

Winter: November to March:
Nights 11 - 14: Accommodation: Mosvold Villa( or similar)
Situated along the South coast in the outskirts of Ahangama, Mosvold Villa offers a peaceful getaway to the discerning traveller, amidst palm-lined golden shores and azure blue seas. The villa combines the luxuries of a star class hotel with the comfort and privacy of a home to give you an experience unlike any other.
There are a range of activities which can be booked and paid for locally.

Fort Bazaar (or similar) Summer: April to October

Once a Merchant home from the 16th century, Fort Bazaar is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the Galle Fort superbly positioned within footsteps of prime Galle Fort sights and shops. Built around a traditional Galle Fort private courtyard boasting the acclaimed Church Street Social restaurant library and Z Spa.

Your local host

Prateeque

Hi! My name is Prateeque, your host. I grew up in India, in Bangalore and after completing an engineering degree, I decided to not actually follow this path and chose to follow my passion of travel. I quickly got a job as an actual tour guide in the wonderful southern region of Kerala, India, for a few months and ended up staying for 2 years.

An opportunity opened up to go to Sri Lanka to become manager for the country, so when I was offered it, I jumped at the chance. During my time working in travel, I’ve travelled the majority of both India and Sri Lanka and discovered almost place you could possibly explore in these crazy, yet amazing countries.

I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors and exploring, even as a kid. ... Read All

Hi! My name is Prateeque, your host. I grew up in India, in Bangalore and after completing an engineering degree, I decided to not actually follow this path and chose to follow my passion of travel. I quickly got a job as an actual tour guide in the wonderful southern region of Kerala, India, for a few months and ended up staying for 2 years.

An opportunity opened up to go to Sri Lanka to become manager for the country, so when I was offered it, I jumped at the chance. During my time working in travel, I’ve travelled the majority of both India and Sri Lanka and discovered almost place you could possibly explore in these crazy, yet amazing countries.

I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors and exploring, even as a kid. I would go out on my bike and get lost and then try to find my way back. I grew up in an urban setting, so any chance I could get I was out exploring. The feeling of release you get from the outdoors, is completely different to anything you can feel.

The one thing that inspired me to work in travel and pursue it as a long term career, is the feeling of pure amazement when discovering something new or seeing something spectacular for the first time. It’s an indescribable feeling, but you’re just totally immersed in this place and you just forget about everything else for a while.

And seeing this look on people’s faces and being with them when they’re doing this, is something I found out very quickly when I was tour guide I absolutely loved and just had to pursue this further.

Another thing is, you always learn in travel, there’s always something new that comes up, whether it be an experience, untapped location, or new people, you’re always learning and this pushes me to find new things to do.

It’s fair to say that Sri Lanka is oversaturated, there are plenty of companies here offering the same tours to the same places. We however, like to go off the beaten track. It’s unbelievable how much there is to see in this wonderful country away from the main sights. For example, the busy national parks e.g. Udawalawe National Park can have up to 600 jeeps a day on it’s roads. But if you go just 2 hours away at Gal Oya national park, it’s much less busy and you can get much closer to the wildlife.

Prateeque image

Location

Your host will meet you at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be taken straight to your hotel near Negombo, on the south west coast of the country.

From there, you’ll head northwards and inland to your first stop, beautiful villas at an eco-farm near the village of Pallepola. You’ll then take a relaxed hike through spice country  to your next stop, accommodation in an old colonial bungalow in Gammaduwa, before heading to your lodge in the midst of Gal Oya Valley National Park.

You will stay in  a lovely  eco agro-resort in Wellawaya, surrounded by amazing views, with excellent dining and a renowned spa. Then it’s time to unwind at the beach, depending on the time of year you will stay at either Pottuvil or Ahangam before being transferred back to the airport for your homeward journey.

 

Join our community

Get off the beaten track and support local communities that you visit.

Sign up for inspiriation for your itinerary, new experiences and special offers.