Sri Lanka

This 15-day trip takes us to what must be one the of most beautiful and culturally rich islands to be found anywhere on earth, and one that certainly lives up to its name (‘Sri’ means holy, beautiful or resplendent, and ‘Lanka’ means island or land). Even the name ‘Ceylon’, as it was formally known, is full of meaning as it reflects very well the island’s long colonial past and place in history as a beautiful gem that all desired to place in their crown.

Sri Lanka’s outline on the map has evoked visions of a teardrop falling from the tip of India, and the peaks of Sri Lanka’s hill country are thought to be linked to the subcontinent as a continuation of India’s Western Ghats. While Sri Lanka may indeed be a big tear drop (and island), it is a relatively small country, with a land area of 64,740 sq km (25,000 sq miles) -roughly the size of Ireland. However, the range of contrasting landscapes and cultures all condensed into this relatively small geographical area make it feel much bigger. Naturally, it is not possible to see it all, but this trip does provide a very good overview of the country, including some of its most important cultural / historical sites and natural environments (abounding in wonderful wildlife), as well as a more intimate look at some lesser-known areas that can only be on foot.

Over the course of the trip we explore many areas (several of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites) replete with ancient stupas of monumental proportions, gravity defying temples, extraordinary palaces, evocative monastic dwellings and complexes, elaborate gardens, astonishing granite statues and sculpture, immense water tanks, frescoed caves, seemingly impregnable fortresses and many magnificent vestiges of the island’s colonial past in all different forms.

We walk through an incredibly diverse range of landscapes, such as palm-bedecked beaches, coconut, rubber and spice plantations, rice paddies, lowland jungles, wetlands, lagoons, rivers, streams and waterfalls, scrub-covered savannah dotted with huge granite formations, rain forest, cloud forest, impossibly green hills, high-altitude grasslands, mist-shrouded mountains and beautifully manicured (plucked) tea plantations. Everyday we are accompanied by a vast array of birds and countless friendly smiles, and there is often the possibility of spotting something much bigger just around the corner…

The food is delicious, fresh, locally sourced, and full of exquisite flavours and wonderful spices. The standard of accommodation is very high and includes a couple of Sri Lanka’s famous architect’s (Geoffrey Bawa) most outstanding works. Each hotel is remarkably different from the next and they all provide an entirely unique experience and atmosphere.

For a detailed itinerary and/or further information, please contact us at [email protected]

The fitness level for all trips is classified according to the average distance and elevation gain of the walks offered, with fitness levels ranging from 1-5, see here for more details.