Sri Lanka: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Intrepid Travel Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
4.6 . Excellent
94%
Travel Style: N/A
Physical Level: All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included. Moderate
Lodging Level: Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels. Value (3*)
10 days
From: $ 1,620 $ 162 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Kayak down the sparking Gin River, taking in Sri Lanka’s ever-changing landscape. Float past forests, sandbanks and plantations while keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way.
  • Encounter Sri Lanka's amazing scenery and biodiversity while hiking through the Knuckles Mountain Range and on to the ‘Mini World’s End’.
  • Cycle a mostly downhill route through the green heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country in ‘the Golden Valley of Ceylon
  • Slip down a few gears in the laidback coastal town of Weligama, where inviting sandy beaches offer a welcome break for sore muscles, and fantastic waves give you the chance to stay active.
  • Come face to face with one of Sri Lanka’s most storied sites as you hike to the ancient carved rock fortress of Sigiriya, rising dramatically from the surrounding plains.
  • Get to know the layered history of Galle during a cycle and walking tour, uncovering the city’s maze of streets, colonial buildings and famous 17th-century fort.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

Short Description

Ride through tea plantations, kayak down rivers and hike to ancient fortresses on an active adventure from Negombo to Colombo. Sri Lanka is one of Asia’s most exciting destinations and it’s not hard to see why. With pristine coastline, ancient ruins, rugged peaks and wildlife-filled national parks, it’s a dream for travellers who like to get outdoors. Explore the country’s premier sites while wandering through the wilds on this Sri Lankan experience.

Style Small group tour
Array
Itinerary Focus N/A
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Lodging Level Value (3*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions All internal ground transport
Start City Negombo
End City Colombo

Destinations

Sri Lanka

Attractions & Cities Visited

Colombo Dambulla Kandy Mirissa Sigiriya Weligama

Activities & Interests

N/A

Age Requirement

15-99

N/A
See more

Itinerary

Day 1 Negombo

Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the beachside town of Negombo, located close to Colombo's international airport. You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. Those arriving early can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and perhaps feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.

Day 2 Sigiriya

Leave early and travel by private vehicle (approximately 3 hours) to Dambulla, home to the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. After checking into your accommodation take the short drive to Sigiriya for your first activity – a hike up the 1200 steps of the famed Lion Rock. This ancient carved-rock fortress rises dramatically above the surrounding plains, as the near vertical walls elevate the ancient city of Sigiriya high into the air, keeping the secrets of the Kassapa Kingdom inaccessible save for a rigorous climb along steep staircases. On the way you’ll visit the water and boulder gardens, frescoes and the mirror wall. The next section of the climb takes approximately 30 mins along steep walkways and steps all the way up to the rocky plateau, soaring 200 metres above the jungle below. From here the views over the surrounding area and the nearby Pidurangala Rock are jaw-dropping. Make your way back down and head back to Dambulla for a relaxing evening.

Day 3 Minneriya National Park & Knuckles Mountain Range

Today is a gentle one as you enjoy a relaxed jeep safari (approximately 2-3 hours) in the nearby Minneriya National Park. The park plays host to a mix of evergreen forest and scrublands, not to mention the sambar deer, leopards and elephants that can often be spotted roaming the wild. After the safari travel by private vehicle (approximately 2 hours) to the Knuckles Mountain Range, your home for the next two nights. Named after its striking visual likeness to human knuckles, this mystical UNESCO World Heritage Site features 34 dramatic mountains that range from 900 to 2,000 metres, surrounded by dense forest, waterfalls and terraced rice fields, and is home to some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning hiking trails. Tonight, get closer to nature as you set up camp next to the pristine waters and natural rock pools of the Thelgamu Oya stream. To keep you fresh for tomorrow’s hike your activity is limited to a delightful evening walk around the village before relaxing by the riverside and an included dinner.

Day 4 Knuckles Mountain Range Hiking

Today you’ll head out early on a rigorous full day guided hike along the Manigala Trek through the Knuckles region. Start hiking after breakfast and wind your way through emerald green forests and hillsides, past sheer cliffs and alongside fast-flowing rivers, perhaps stopping at villages surrounded by verdant rice terraces along the way. Enjoy lunch by the river and continue up the stone and dirt trail all the way up to the imposing Manigala Rock, where spectacular panoramic views of the valley below and adjacent peaks await. After taking in the views make your way back down to camp to enjoy a hearty dinner after a long but rewarding day’s hiking.

Day 5 Kandy & Knuckles/Mini World’s End Hiking

Begin the day with a moderate 2 to 3-hour hike through beautiful forest to Knuckles’ renowned Mini World’s End, a dramatic observation point overlooking the Thelgamuwa Valley and a sheer drop of 1192 metres (4000ft) to the forest floor below. The panoramic views over the misty green valley and distant mountain peaks are truly spectacular. After the hike enjoy a picturesque vehicle transfer to Kandy (approximately 2.5 hours). Lying in the hills of the Kandy plateau, this major city previously served as the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries – maybe find a spot by the scenic lake in the centre of town and while away the afternoon or opt to visit the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Housed inside, the relic of the tooth of the Buddha has played an important role in local politics due to the belief that whoever holds the relic holds governance of the country. Kandy’s temple and its status as the last city of the Sri Lankan Kings have landed it as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 6 Hatton & Tea Country Cycling

Start your day with a scenic train journey to Hatton (approximately 3 hours). After arriving, cycle directly from the train station, enjoying the undulating scenery of vast tea estates lying in the flowing, tree-lined hills, as you make your way to the small but picturesque village of Norton Bridge. After arriving at your hotel, those feeling energetic can opt to hike up to Adam’s Peak. The peak is often visited by pilgrims who climb a candle-lit trail in the evening, passing shrines and food stalls along the way. Or simply put your feet up with a nice cup of Ceylon tea – the choice is yours.

Day 7 Tea Country Cycling & Mirissa

After breakfast, it’s back on your mountain bike for a mostly downhill ride through the heart of tea country. Pedal from Hatton through Bogawantalawa, home to premium Ceylon Tea, to Balangoda, cycling through the sculpted green hills of ‘the Golden Valley of Ceylon’. Your cycling will be broken up with snack breaks and a lunch stop, providing plenty of fuel (and photo opportunities) for your ride. At the end of your ride, transfer to the delightful coastal town of Mirissa (approximately 3 hours). This dual personality town, part fishing village and part beachside resort, is the perfect place to simply sit back and relax by the beach after a few vigorous days. For those looking to stay active, Visit nearby Weligama, the ideal place to hit the waves at one of the local surf or bodyboarding schools.

Day 8 Gin River Kayaking & Galle Cycling

Start your day with a short drive (approximately 1 hour) to the small town of Unanwitiya, your jumping off point for an exciting day kayaking down the Gin River. After instruction from our expert guides, cruise down the clear waters of the river as it winds its way downstream on a mixture of occasional white but mostly flat water. Paddle past dense forests, huge sandbanks, tea plantations and rice paddy fields while keeping an eye out for monitor lizards, colourful birds and the occasional troop of monkeys. After the kayaking, head to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage coastal city of Galle. Once the main port for the cinnamon trade, this former Portuguese then Dutch colonial city features a maze of rambling streets, colonial buildings, mansions, ancient churches, a characterful lighthouse, and it’s crowning jewel, the imposing 17th-century fort. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean this is surely one of the most dramatic structures in all of Sri Lanka. Start your exploration on an afternoon cycling tour Galle Fort then get to know the city more intimately on a walking tour along the ramparts and winding streets of the Fort. Return to relaxed Mirissa in the evening for a well-earned rest after an active day.

Day 9 Colombo

Depart Weligama after breakfast with a transfer to Colombo (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, check into your hotel and then take a city walk past the bustling Petta Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament, and the National Museum. Your walk finishes with a shopping opportunity at the Barefoot fairtrade store. Here you can find a collection of handicrafts from around the country and support small cottage industries. Tonight, there's an optional final group dinner to celebrate your journey. This comes in the form of a food crawl along the city's tantalising market stalls.

Day 10 Colombo

Today marks the end of your adventure and there are no activities scheduled after breakfast. You are free to depart at any time or stay on an further explore this fascinating city.

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 1,620
Price Per Day: $ 162 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceAvailability 
Dec-24-2023Jan-02-2024$ 2,1093 spots left Reserve
Jan-14-2024Jan-23-2024$ 1,971Sold Out Reserve
Feb-11-2024Feb-20-2024$ 1,971Sold Out Reserve
Feb-25-2024Mar-05-2024$ 1,8326 spots left Reserve
Mar-03-2024Mar-12-2024$ 1,7681 spots left Reserve
Mar-17-2024Mar-26-2024$ 1,76812 spots left Reserve
Mar-31-2024Apr-09-2024$ 1,7687 spots left Reserve
Apr-07-2024Apr-16-2024$ 1,7687 spots left Reserve
Jul-07-2024Jul-16-2024$ 1,62012 spots left Reserve
Jul-21-2024Jul-30-2024$ 1,6206 spots left Reserve
Aug-25-2024Sep-03-2024$ 1,62010 spots left Reserve
Sep-15-2024Sep-24-2024$ 1,62012 spots left Reserve
Oct-13-2024Oct-22-2024$ 1,62012 spots left Reserve
Nov-10-2024Nov-19-2024$ 1,68312 spots left Reserve
Nov-24-2024Dec-03-2024$ 1,68312 spots left Reserve
Dec-08-2024Dec-17-2024$ 1,74612 spots left Reserve
Dec-22-2024Dec-31-2024$ 1,9408 spots left Reserve
See more

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

4,408 Intrepid Travel Travel Reviews & Ratings

94%
4.6 out of 5 (100+ reviews)
Excellent 3,319
Great 672
Average 144
Disappointing 80
Terrible 193
Value
4.6
Guide
4.6
Activities
4.6
Lodging
4.6
Transportation
4.6
Meals
4.6

Sri Lanka: Hike, Bike & Kayak

No reviews yet for this trip. Be the first one to write a review

Company Reviews

Went on Highlights of Japan Tour

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
Went on Highlights of Japan Tour, 8 days on19/11/23. Tour Leader was Yuki Saida, she was marvellous. Helpful, knowledgeable and patient.I suggest you keep her as she is an amazing asset to your Company. The group jelled together well but there is one point that needs examining. We travelled to the countryside a spent a night at a homestay on 21/11/23 at a stay called Voketto. The young man who owned it was charming but the place was a mess, cold, damp and basically a building site. He admitted he couldn't cook and he was right. i definitely advise a host course or a revamp of property if he is to remain on your books There was a trainee guide on the tour Junko she was very good too. Thank you Lesley Webb
Read more

Avoid Intrepid

1.0
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
Many recent reviews are pointing to a sharp decline in quality and service with Intrepid. My recent experience echoes all that has been mentioned. They are appalling at responding to serious concerns. I have countless auto responses from its laughingly useless and lazy customer service department. Their financial management is a joke. They couldn't find my payment despite my twice providing traces from my bank. They are pathetic liars about not just the money. They lied about their failure to send me any information about my upcoming trip, how they omitted me from the group email circulation. They lied about anyone including a 'senior manager' trying to phone me.
Even the length of the trip is a con with first day being nothing more than a brief meeting at 1800. The last 'day' being breakfast at the hotel with not a sight or sound of the Rep.
Intrepid is a dishonest mess. They are now purely concerned with making money.
Do not use this company. They are terrible and there are many better (and safer) providers out there.
Read more

We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food…

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment.
Read more

Central Asia Explorer

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
This was my third trip with Intrepid, and I'll continue to plan future trips with them. I choose Intrepid to travel to parts of the world where I don't feel comfortable traveling alone, and the experience is always memorable. Intrepid provides experiences that would be difficult for a traveler to do on their own. The most recent trip I did was to Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, and it was a fantastic experience.
Read more

Our trip to India's Classic Rajasthan…

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
Our trip to India's Classic Rajasthan was a great experience - varied, interesting and exciting. Accommodation was varied, with some lovely heritage hotels - although a couple of places, although in amazing locations and really great to visit, could do with an upgrade! Our guide was exceptional - interesting facts abounding; care and concern for us all; taking us to excellent restaurants. Altogether a really memorable holiday.
Read more

My Favourite Travel Company

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Absolutely love travelling with Intrepid and I have done so many times. Perfect for solo travellers who don't wish to travel alone!

Details

Flight & Transport Inclusions

All internal ground transport Private vehicle,Jeep,Taxi,Kayak,Mountain Bike

Group Size

Small Group - 24 max

Maximum Number of People in Group: 12

Accommodations

Hotel (7 nights),Camping with basic facilities (2 nights)

Guides

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Age Notes :

Min. Age: 15

Max Age: 99

Additional Information

Finish point

  • Fairway Colombo
  • No. 7, Hospital Street,
  • Colombo 01
  • Colombo
  • SRI LANKA
  • Phone: +94 (0)112153153

Trip ID#:

intrepid-HPXM

×
Great Choice!

Now, Unlock Member Savings

Our Travelstride Select trips allow you and your travel companions to save up to $700. You wouldn’t want to miss that, right?

or
or
Provide email and password

With your FREE membership you get to:

  • Save up to $700 per person!*
  • Access private deals and offers
  • See personalized trip recommendations
  • Save favorite trips
*See Member Savings Program details
Already a member?

We respect your privacy and take great care to protect your information. By joining you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

×

You could save $ 300 per person on this trip!

TripSaver
Flexible travel vouchers redeemable on thousands of trips like this one!
×
×
×
Sign in to Save Trips
Welcome back! We're so happy to see you. ? Forgot Password?
Don't have an account? Join
  • Bookmark trips you like
  • Share with your travel companions
  • Track price changes
  • Access private discounts on trips you save
×
Sign in to see your results

TripFinder is a member-only feature. Don’t worry, it’s free!

With a membership you:

  • Save up to $700 per person!*
  • Access private deals and offers
  • See personalized trip recommendations
  • Save favorite trips
*See Member Savings Program details
×
Activate your free Travelstride membership

Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.

? Forgot Password?

With your free membership you:

  • Save up to $700 per person!*
  • Access private deals and offers
  • See personalized trip recommendations
  • Save favorite trips
*See Member Savings Program details
×
To Follow, sign in or sign up (it's free) ? Forgot Password?
Don't have an account? Join
member benefits

By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

First name is required!
Last name is required!
First name is not valid!
Last name is not valid!
This is not an email address!
Email address is required!
This email is already registered!
Please enter valid email address
Password is required!
Enter a valid password!
Please enter 6 or more characters!
Please enter 32 or less characters!
Passwords are not the same!
Terms and Conditions are required!
Email or Password is wrong!
Please select the captcha checkbox!
Please select the valid captcha!
Something went wrong! Try again later!

"Take only memories, leave only footprints."
Chief Seattle
x
x
Download your brochure

Enter your email to get the "" brochure.

x
Brochure successfully sent!

We've sent the "" brochure to "". Check your inbox!