We begin in the heart of the country, exploring the cave temples of Dambulla, climbing Sigiriya and visiting Minneriya National Park. From there, we continue into the hill country, where we visit tea plantations and travel by train through beautiful scenery to Ella.
Heading south, we hike in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve before slowing down on the beaches of Unawatuna by the Indian Ocean.
This trip brings together culture, nature and outdoor adventure, with a route that goes beyond the usual highlights and gives you a more varied view of Sri Lanka. It is ideal for travellers who want to discover the country through different landscapes, activities and experiences.
Highlights
Our trip starts late in the evening, with a 23:00 departure from Athens on an Air Arabia flight to Sharjah. Flight time is approximately 4½ hours.
Flight from Sharjah to Colombo, departing at 08:00 and arriving at 13:55.
After completing the necessary arrival formalities and exchanging currency, we continue to Sigiriya, our first stop in Sri Lanka.
Overnight at the Sigiriya Village Hotel 3* in deluxe rooms.
Very early in the morning, we begin our climb up the impressive Sigiriya Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. One of its most striking features is the pair of giant lion paws carved into the rock, marking the entrance to the fortress.
We then continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where we explore its monumental ruins.
Later, we visit Minneriya National Park, known for its rich wildlife. Elephants, leopards, bears and many bird species live here, giving us the chance to observe them in their natural habitat.
In the evening, we return to the same hotel for an overnight stay.
Very early in the morning, we begin our climb up Pidurangala Rock, the area’s second well-known rock formation. The route includes some light scrambling, but the views from the top are well worth the effort, with sunrise over the lush valley and the impressive Lion Rock standing out in the landscape.
We return to the hotel for breakfast and then continue to Dambulla, where we visit the complex of Buddhist cave temples.
Our next stop is Kandy, where we will have some free time to walk around the lake, enjoy a meal or optionally visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic or the Buddhist Museum. Entrance fees and guided visits are not included.
In the afternoon, we continue to Nuwara Eliya, where we stay overnight at the Rippon Grand Hill 4* in deluxe rooms.
After breakfast, we head to Nanu Oya railway station, where we begin one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Train tickets and seat reservations are subject to availability, as bookings open 30 days before each departure.
Ella is a small, lush town in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country and a popular base for outdoor activities. After arriving and checking in at the hotel, we will take a first walk around the town centre and have some time for a meal.
The rest of the day is free for relaxation and Ayurvedic activities.
Overnight at the Onrock Boutique Hotel3* in deluxe rooms.
Early in the morning, we begin our hike up Ella Rock, a peak known for its panoramic views. The trail leads through the forest, making for a scenic hike all the way to the top.
We return to the hotel for breakfast and then continue to the Sinharaja Rainforest, a pristine tropical rainforest.
Overnight at Jansen's bungalow Sinharaja in standard twin rooms.
Very early in the morning, we set out with a packed breakfast to explore the pristine rainforest with an experienced local guide.
During the hike, we will have the chance to observe and photograph some of the area’s endemic wildlife, flora and fauna.
After the hike, we continue to Sri Lanka’s southern coast and the Unawatuna area, where we will stay overnight at the Araliya Beach Resort & Spa – Unawatuna 5* in deluxe rooms.
A day to slow down and enjoy some free time. Relax on the beach beneath the palm trees, swim alongside sea turtles, try diving or snorkeling, or take a glass-bottom boat trip over the nearby coral reef.
If you prefer a more laid-back pace, simply spend the day by the sea with a seafood meal or a drink.
Overnight at the same hotel.
After breakfast, we leave for Galle, where we will visit the fort and explore the historic town within its walls.
We then continue to Colombo, where we will discover the city through some of its main sights.
The day ends with arrival and overnight at the Granbell Hotel 4*, in twin rooms with sea views.
Shortly after midnight, we leave for the airport to catch our Air Arabia flight back to Greece.
The flight departs at 05:20, arriving in Athens at 12:55.
📢 Early Bird Offer
Valid for bookings until October 31.
After the Early Bird period ends, the following participation fee applies:
Single room supplement: €590
Note: The above prices were calculated based on an exchange rate of €1 = $1.12. Any change in this exchange rate may affect the final selling price.
To reserve your spot, please first read our Booking Terms. If you agree to the terms, proceed with the online booking process by clicking “BOOK NOW” and paying the €500 deposit. The deposit can be paid during the booking process by card or via IRIS.
A second payment of €1,000 must be made by December 31, while the remaining balance must be paid in full by January 31, 2027.
The second payment and final balance should be paid by bank transfer to the following ALPHA BANK account:
IBAN: GR1001407960796002002013550
Account name: OUTDOORS TRAINING IKE
Alternatively, payments can be made via IRIS using the company’s Tax Identification Number: 800697728.
When making a bank transfer or deposit, please enter your full name and the trip name “SRI LANKA” in the payment reference field.
In the event of a cancellation, the following terms apply:
Accommodation / Meals
Accommodation will be provided at the hotels listed in the detailed itinerary, in twin rooms with private bathrooms and breakfast included.
Meals include breakfast only, as provided by the hotels. All other meals will be at your own expense, giving you the freedom to dine at local restaurants and enjoy traditional dishes.
Itinerary Changes
Our tour leader, in consultation with the local guide, reserves the right to modify the itinerary if weather conditions or other local circumstances, such as strikes or political unrest, make this necessary. Any changes will be made with the smooth operation of the trip and the safety of participants as the main priorities.
Any additional costs that may arise as a result of such changes are the responsibility of the participants.
Weather
Sri Lanka has a warm, tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 33°C. Monsoons from the Indian Ocean mainly affect the southwestern and central regions, with some areas receiving more than 2,500 mm of rainfall annually. The northwestern, eastern and southeastern parts of the country form the “dry zone”, receiving approximately 800 to 1,200 mm of rainfall per year.
Our trip takes place during one of the best periods to visit, with relatively dry conditions and temperatures around 30°C. In the mountainous areas, evening temperatures can drop below 20°C. Rainfall is still possible in some areas, particularly in the tropical rainforest, so appropriate preparation is recommended.
Health / Safety / Insurance
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into the country. However, before travelling, we recommend checking the official travel medicine information provided by EODY or consulting your personal doctor, as requirements and recommendations may change and additional advice may apply depending on your medical history.
Travel insurance with AddValue is included in the trip cost under the BASIC coverage plan.
This plan covers travellers up to the age of 65, with the option to extend coverage up to the age of 80.
Travel insurance is a specialised service, and complete information regarding available insurance options, coverage and policy exclusions can only be provided by the insurance provider.
We therefore recommend contacting our insurance advisor to decide whether you wish to remain on the included BASIC plan or upgrade your level of coverage.
Note: Any additional cost for an insurance upgrade is covered by the participant.
Currency / Money
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), with an indicative August exchange rate of €1 = 385 LKR.
Currency exchange is available upon arrival at the airport, as well as at selected hotels and in larger towns along the route.
Visa and Mastercard credit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants and shops, although transaction fees may apply.
As card payment options can be limited, we recommend carrying cash. Small businesses, tuk-tuks and local markets generally accept cash only.
Make sure to keep your currency exchange receipts. If you have any rupees left at the end of the trip, you may be asked to present these receipts at the airport in order to exchange them back into euros.
Tipping
Tipping is optional and is sometimes overlooked even by travellers who have been very satisfied with the service provided.
However, it is a meaningful way to show appreciation to a dedicated tour leader who has made every effort to provide participants with the best possible experience.
Tips for local guides and porters can also be an important source of income. We therefore recommend budgeting approximately €40–50 per person for the tour leader and €5 per person, per activity, for local guides.
Communications / Charging Devices
For communication during the trip, you can purchase a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival or arrange an eSIM before leaving Greece.
Dialog is one recommended local provider, with a 30-day tourist package offering 30 GB for approximately €5.
Electricity is supplied at 230 V / 50 Hz and power sockets are Type G. An adapter is required and can also be purchased locally if needed.
Travel Documents
To enter the country, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. A tourist visa is also required and will be arranged by our office.
At the time of booking, you will need to send us a scanned copy of your passport.
The required photographs for the visa application must be submitted no later than 30 days before departure. In the event of a late submission that results in the visa not being issued, we cannot accept responsibility for any additional costs or refusal of entry into the country.
Transportation
Flights are included in the trip price and are operated by Air Arabia via Sharjah Airport. The fare includes one 20 kg checked bag.
Meals are not included during the flight, although food can be purchased on board at an additional cost.
Local transportation will be by private air-conditioned vehicle. We will also take the national train along the scenic Nanu Oya - Ella route. Train tickets and seat reservations cannot be guaranteed, as bookings open 30 days before each departure. If train tickets cannot be secured, the journey to Ella will be made by bus, with no change to the trip price.
Note: We recommend keeping your luggage as light as possible, as you will need to carry it yourself whenever necessary.
Recommended personal first-aid kit
Price from €2800
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