So you’ve made the greatest decision of your life, to join the TruFam and explore Sri Lanka with us for the next 10 days. Hey, we can tell we’re going to get along already. Sure, mentally prepare for the early starts but trust us though, it’s going to be worth it as soon as you see this stunning landscape for all of its beauty. Our advice? Get yourself dirty, get yourself involved, throw yourself into every opportunity you’re faced with and make some incomparable memories with your new best mates. This tour has everything you could possibly want! A traditional cooking class to get your tastebuds tingling, a safari to tick off your bucket lists (fingers crossed we see some elephants) and early morning hike to one of the best viewpoints in the world and the epic trian journey you have seen all over your insta feed. Sri Lanka is one of our favourtie spots in Asia and we are so so happy that within the last year its popularity has sky-rocketted! The locals are some of the kindest people in the world, the views are incredible and the food - well you'll have to taste it to be able to imagine how incredible it is! We promise you'll have never eaten a curry so full of flavour! These 10 days in Sri Lanka will make you fall in love with the country over and over again!
When we say classic, we mean the perfect balance of culture, adventure, beaches and parties. High number of inclusions, low cost. Tru-ly authentic experiences from home-stays & hostels to beach huts, hotels and boats. A classic tour means maximum adventure, minimum hassle. Built for backpackers by backpackers.
You made it! Just like long lost relatives, we’ll be waiting, waving at the Colombo airport to collect you and drive you to our little home from home, a boutique hotel in Negombo. To give you a taste that we don’t do things by halves, we’ll be having a beachfront welcome dinner and drinks at sunset, the perfect start to your adventure. Then hey, get your head down. You’ve got an enormous 9 days ahead of you.
Keeping things local, we’re heading into the heart of Sri Lanka to explore the local culture, history and heritage. We’ll take you to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred temple carved deep into the rock face, then up to the Golden Buddha, a giant (aptly named), majestic, golden statue on a picturesque hilltop. After a fair bit of walking (- you’re doing great btw), we’ll head to our next accommodation stop in the evening, check-in and scope the spectacular views of Sigiriya Rock. Best get eyeing up your route as we’ll be climbing the face of it in the morning. Yep! Night!
So it’s your first early start. Are you ready for this? Pack your bag and get a wiggle on, as this morning we’re heading to the top of one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks - Lion Rock (known locally as Sigiriya Rock). This proper beauty is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so we best be on our best behaviour. A giant rock formation standing nearly 700ft tall (that’s enormous, FYI), an ancient fortress, with mind-blowing views from the top; well worth the trek up. Now we know you’ve been up since the crack of dawn and you haven’t had your Weetabix yet but RELAX. We told you we’d look after you. Once we’ve scaled our way back down, it’s time for a feast back at the hotel before heading back out to explore the town. There ain’t no rest for the wicked, hun. Now, we promised you some wholesome activity and we weren’t lying. As night falls, we’re heading to a beautiful, authentic, local farming village to be spoiled rotten and have our dinner cooked by the loveliest villagers. Enjoy a mouth-watering, authentic meal around a crackling bonfire with our locals as they welcome you too, into their homes and our community. Big #blessed vibes.
Who fancies a spy of our royalty? Today we’re getting another taste of the rich history of Sri Lanka as we travel to Kandy to visit the Temple of the Tooth, located in the Royal Palace complex. Note the significance of the royal temple, which bears great ancient political power and the famous relic which is believed to hold the governance of the country. Finally, we’ll enjoy the evening view of Kandy city and Lake, with a few beers (FINALLY) from a restaurant or our hotel on the mountainside.
First things first, let’s just double-check that you have your phone charged, cameras packed and tissues at the ready as today’s journey is sure to bring a tear to your eye. We’re talking, Lion King sobs, like when Mufasa dies. Today’s journey is a real looker. 10/10 would ‘Gram. So we’re driving through the beautiful town of Nuwara Elia to spend the early bird morning at a local tea plantation, where we’ll learn all about the tea brewing process, from leaf to cup. It’s an early start, so get that caffeine in. We’ll then spend some time at a local family-run cooking school, where we’ll be taught how to cook some of Sri Lanka’s best dishes. Belly full, heart full. Perfect, it’s time to have your breath taken away. It’s time to board ‘the most scenic train journey’ - and they weren’t lying when they named her that. She is a LOOKER. We’ll board the famous train from Nuwara Eliya to the chilled town of Ella. Keep an eye out for cascading waterfalls, roaming wildlife and another glimpse at the locals.
Don’t stress - you won’t need to rush out the door at the crack of dawn today, BUT we are going to work for it on a hike to one of the best views in Ella. Enjoy a lush climb up Little Adams Peak, for a stunning view of Ella Gap - a gorge full of beautiful waterfalls and stunning backdrops. We’ll have a hearty lunch in Ella town, before stopping off at Nine Arch Bridge, where we’ll walk the tracks (not the plank) and watch the train pass through.
Another scorcher of a day, as per. So we’re starting things off with a visit to the neighbouring waterfalls ahead of a day at Udawalawe National Park. Now that’s how to start a day. The bucket list moments don't stop there because our next activity is a Safari! This isn’t the trip of a lifetime for nothing. Scope out Elephants, Monkeys and Buffalos to mention just a few. After that incredible experience we’ll check into our glamping tents for the evening, with some more wholesome activities and some questionable behaviour will commence. Don’t forget to look up as the stars are pretty spectacular.
After a jam packed day of waterfalls and animals yesterday today it's only right that today we through in a bit of history too! The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest living forts in the world. There's so much to discover here with a blend of modern and historic sites so get ready to explore the day away. In the afternoon we will head back to the hotel, to chill, maybe play some cards and process the tour so far with the Trufam!
You’ve done so good, so wake when you like today. Graze, laze, take it as you like. Then once the team is awake and refreshed, we’re walking through the jungle to the stunning golden sands of the beach on the other side. Soak up some Vitamin D, have a swim in the sea and enjoy the simple pleasures and beauty of the shore. What a life! Once you’re all sun-kissed, we’ll head back to the hotel for our farewell dinner. We hope you’ve still got those tissues. It’s been magic.
So you’ve extended your family, it’s Tru. We’ll be over to kiss your Nan on Christmas Day, but for now, it’s time to say goodbye. What a ride. We’re here to help plan the next steps of your adventure, whether it’s onwards, homebound or back to bed for a week of catching up on those early starts. We’ve loved having you and can’t wait to hear what’s next. Big love!
WHICH AIRPORT DO I NEED TO FLY INTO?
You will need to fly in to Colombo Airport (Bandaranaike International Airport) CMB.
WHAT IS THE CLOSEST AIRPORT TO THE END DESTINATION?
The closest airport to the end destination is Colombo Airport (Bandaranaike International Airport) CMB.
HOW DO I GET BACK TO THE START DESTINATION AND IS THIS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE? IF NOT, HOW MUCH IS IT?
If you want to get back to Colombo you can take a taxi which takes around 2-3 hours. This can be done with the help of your tour leader during your tour!
Will I need a VISA?
Although it depends on your nationality, the chances are you will need a VISA to enter Sri Lanka. These are easy to obtain so don't worry!
We recommend looking at your government's travel advice page to get the correct information.
Please note: The Sri Lankan government have recently announced that British Citizens will not be able to apply for an e-visa in the near future. Instead, British citizens will have to pay and obtain a visa at the arrival haul when they arrive in Sri Lanka. This will still cost around $50USD.
If you have any more questions about VISAs or travelling to Sri Lanka please contact the sales team on info@trutravels.com :)
ARE THERE ANY MEALS INCLUDED ON THIS TOUR?
All your breakfasts are included on this trip and you also get a Welcome & Farewell Dinner. We'll also have lunch after cooking up a storm in the cooking class! Food in Sri Lanka is cheap and you can usually pick up a meal for less than £7 in most restaraunts.
WHAT KIND OF ACCOMMODATION IS INCLUDED ON THIS TRIP?
The majority of the accommodation on this trip is twin share although we do use triples rooms on occasion.
HOW MUCH IS A PRE NIGHT’S ACCOMMODATION?
Please contact the sales team to find out about booking a pre-night! Our email is info@trutravels.com :)
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY?
The currency in Sri Lanka is Sri Lanka Ruppee (LKR)
Is my money protected?
Yep! You will never lose your money. You’re protected. TruTravels is both ABTA and ATOL registered meaning your money is safe. We also offer 1 free date change before 60 days of your departure date.
Most of the people that join us on tour are 18-thirtysomethings! We have no strict upper age limit on our tours but all of our tours are specifically designed for those of this age group which is worth noting when browsing through our website.
Yes! Let us know when you are booking your trip about any requirements you might have we can plan ahead and make sure this doesn’t affect your trip!