Sri Lanka Trek

Sri Lanka

Discover Sri Lanka in all its majesty from the endless beaches to the timeless ruins, smiling locals, famous tea and flavoursome foods.

Trip duration:
10 days

Challenge duration:
6 days

Challenge grade:
3/5

Departure months:
February, March, September to November

Accommodation:
Twin-share in 2 to 3-star hotels and lodges

Hiking Sri Lanka

Witness a Sri Lankan sunrise erupt in the sky from Adam's Peak, take a breathtaking train ride to Haputale and visit Horton Plains National Park, famous for its wild grasslands that are scattered with thick forest, interlacing waterfalls and misty lakes.

You will also have the opportunity to explore Meemure, which is situated in the Knuckles Conservation Range and until recently was isolated due to its poor access.

With your challenge complete, explore picture-perfect Kandy. Some days you’ll find that the stubborn mist clings to the hills, making it difficult to see. Yet when the rain subsides, which it mostly does, Kandy’s tanzanite skies open up and produce a real urban buzz, provided by spontaneous street markets, the bustle of locals going about their day and a hive of delicious Sri Lankan restaurants.

Bambarakanda Falls surrounded by lush vegetation in the distance. Sri Lanka

Why you'll love this adventure

  • Explore the cities of Colombo and Nuwara Eliya
  • Visit the Rekawa Turtle Hatchery and volunteer your time to help these previous species thrive
  • Trek through the scenic forests, villages and slopes of this beautiful section of Sri Lanka
  • Cool off in lush waterfalls and relax after a long day of trekking

Trip notes

Day 1: Arrive in Colombo

On your arrival in Colombo, make your own way to the hotel. This evening, we will meet for our first team briefing and welcome meal.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: City Tour

After breakfast, we will do the city tour in Colombo. Like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some parts, the old-world charm is retained. Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for bargain, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Colombo museum, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH)- an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China, the new Parliament and the Dutch Museum. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Rekawa Turtle Hatchery & Udawalawa National Park

After breakfast we visit the Rekawa turtle hatchery in Tangalle. Sri Lanka is globally recognized as one of the few places in the world where you can observe marine turtles in their natural habitat. You can experience five out of seven of the world’s marine turtle species are found in Sri Lanka and come ashore in Rekawa to lay eggs, including green, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley and leatherback. Your volunteering involves ensuring the safe hatching of turtle eggs, beach clean ups, and other similar activities, will help protect these beautiful marine creatures and see to the increase of turtle population. In the evening we will transfer to Udawalawa and take a safari in Udawalawa national park. Udawalawe National Park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir on the Walawe River, as well as to protect the catchment of the reservoir.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Udawalawa - Haldamulla

Today after breakfast we will proceed to Haldamulla and start your hike with enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of the hill country. Trek through the Adisham bungalow and tea estates of Idalgashinna. This is a better place to view the southern area of the country. On the way to lunch at a local house. You can experience the local food prepared by a local family.

Trekking Distance: 12km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Bambarakanda Falls

After breakfast, we will transfer to Ohiya and start your hike through tea plantations and rural villages

to the Bambarakanda falls - the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. En-route, stop at a small and scenic

waterfall in the forest for lunch and a swim. Bambarakanda Falls is situated within a majestic basin shaped valley bordered by huge steep rocks and dark green reforests of pines and tropical trees. This highest waterfall of Sri Lanka with two silver ropes over a vertical dark gray wall from the green saddle between Mt. Welihena and Mt. Bambaragala into a deep pool only 500, walking distance from the main Colonial Trek.

Trekking Distance: 14km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Haputale to Nuwaraeliya

After breakfast, hop on board the train to Haputale situated in the tea-growing southern highlands. This is one of the greatest rail journeys in the world. The dramatic landscape stirs the senses as you wind past tea covered hills and gushing waterfalls. The train leaves at 7:45 a.m and arrives in Nanuoya by 9:30 am. We will do a city tour of Nuwaraeliya and the remainder of the day is free to explore.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Horton Plains National Park

Rise early and head to Horton Plains National Park for a relaxed 3-hour hike in the park with a visit to Bakers Falls and World’s End. Horton Plains National Park is distinct in its utter solitude. The wild expanse of Horton Plains, with a mixture of grasslands and forests including the last montage forest in the country, is the only National Park in Sri Lanka where visitors are allowed to roam around freely inside. Situated 7,000 feet above sea level, the walk to 'World's End' and 'Little World's End' offers one of the finest views in Sri Lanka. The park offers the chance to observe five endemic bird species that can be seen only at this altitude including the Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, Dull-Blue flycatcher, Yellow-eared Bulbul, the elusive Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush and the Sri Lanka Woodpigeon. Mammals include plenty of Sambar, the Slender Loris, Bear Monkey and, occasionally, a Leopard. After trekking, we will head to the magnificent Knuckles Conservation Range by Vehicle.

Trekking Distance: 9km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Knuckles Range and Kota Ganga Waterfall Trek

Today after breakfast we will start the tour at around 8.00am and trekking through the tea plantations to Knuckles range. After we walk 3 km,  we will turn off to the waterfall trek. Lunch is served at the waterfall. We then return along the same path to the campsite.

Trekking Distance: 10km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Heloya Trek, Kandy

Today after breakfast we undertake the Heeloya trek. It's a very scenic and different trek experience. We start the trek at around 8am and trek through the villagers, Kaludiya pokuna, cardamom plantation and crystal clear natural pool and paddy fields. Lunch will be served at the waterfall. After the trek you will be picked up from Udispattuwa and transferred to Kandy by vehicle. Kandy is Sri Lanka's hill capital, stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, is often considered the country’s most beautiful town.

Trekking Distance: 12km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Depart Kandy

This morning after breakfast, you are free to explore until you make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 1: Arrive in Colombo

On your arrival in Colombo, make your own way to the hotel. This evening, we will meet for our first team briefing and welcome meal.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: City Tour

After breakfast, we will do the city tour in Colombo. Like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some parts, the old-world charm is retained. Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for bargain, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Colombo museum, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH)- an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China, the new Parliament and the Dutch Museum. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Rekawa Turtle Hatchery & Udawalawa National Park

After breakfast, we visit the Rekawa turtle hatchery in Tangalle. Sri Lanka is globally recognized as one of the few places in the world where you can observe marine turtles in their natural habitat. You can experience five out of seven of the world’s marine turtle species are found in Sri Lanka and come ashore in Rekawa to lay eggs, including green, loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley and leatherback. Your volunteering involves ensuring the safe hatching of turtle eggs, beach clean ups, and other similar activities, will help protect these beautiful marine creatures and see to the increase of turtle population. In the evening we will transfer to Udawalawa and take a safari in Udawalawa national park. Udawalawe National Park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir on the Walawe River, as well as to protect the catchment of the reservoir.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Udawalawa - Haldamulla

Today after breakfast we will proceed to Haldamulla and start your hike with enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of the hill country. Trek through the Adisham bungalow and tea estates of Idalgashinna. This is a better place to view the southern area of the country. On the way to lunch at a local house. You can experience the local food prepared by a local family.

Trekking Distance: 12km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Bambarakanda Falls

After breakfast, we will transfer to Ohiya and start your hike through tea plantations and rural villages to the Bambarakanda falls - the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. En-route, stop at a small and scenic waterfall in the forest for lunch and a swim. Bambarakanda Falls is situated within a majestic basin-shaped valley bordered by huge steep rocks and dark green reforests of pines and tropical trees. This highest waterfall of Sri Lanka with two silver ropes over a vertical dark gray wall from the green saddle between Mt. Welihena and Mt. Bambaragala into a deep pool only 500, walking distance from the main Colonial Trek.

Trekking Distance: 14km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Haputale to Nuwaraeliya

After breakfast, hop on board the train to Haputale situated in the tea-growing southern highlands. This is one of the greatest rail journeys in the world. The dramatic landscape stirs the senses as you wind past tea covered hills and gushing waterfalls. The train leaves at 7:45 am and arrives in Nanuoya by 9:30 am. We will do a city tour of Nuwaraeliya and the remainder of the day is free to explore.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Horton Plains National Park

Rise early and head to Horton Plains National Park for a relaxed 3-hour hike in the park with a visit to Bakers Falls and World’s End. Horton Plains National Park is distinct in its utter solitude. The wild expanse of Horton Plains, with a mixture of grasslands and forests including the last montage forest in the country, is the only National Park in Sri Lanka where visitors are allowed to roam around freely inside. Situated 7,000 feet above sea level, the walk to 'World's End' and 'Little World's End' offers one of the finest views in Sri Lanka. The park offers the chance to observe five endemic bird species that can be seen only at this altitude including the Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, Dull-Blue flycatcher, Yellow-eared Bulbul, the elusive Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush and the Sri Lanka Woodpigeon. Mammals include plenty of Sambar, the Slender Loris, Bear Monkey and, occasionally, a Leopard. After trekking, we will head to the magnificent Knuckles Conservation Range by vehicle.

Trekking Distance: 9km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Knuckles Range and Kota Ganga Waterfall Trek

Today after breakfast we will start the tour at around 8.00am and trekking through the tea plantations to Knuckles range. After we walk 3 km,  we will turn off to the waterfall trek. Lunch is served at the waterfall. We then return along the same path to the campsite.

Trekking Distance: 10km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Heloya Trek, Kandy

Today after breakfast we undertake the Heeloya trek. It's a very scenic and different trek experience. We start the trek at around 8am and trek through the villagers, Kaludiya pokuna, cardamom plantation and crystal clear natural pool and paddy fields. Lunch will be served at the waterfall. After the trek you will be picked up from Udispattuwa and transferred to Kandy by vehicle. Kandy is Sri Lanka's hill capital, stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, is often considered the country’s most beautiful town.

Trekking Distance: 12km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Depart Kandy

This morning after breakfast, you are free to explore until you make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: Breakfast

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. 

The Sri Lanka trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share 3-Star hotels and comfortable camping. Most hotels are equipped with basic amenities. Laundry facilities are available at hotels, for an additional cost.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What is the food like? 

Sri Lankan food has parallels to South Indian food, but remains distinctly its own cuisine. Throughout years of influence from other countries, Sri Lanka has adapted its food culture into a blend of different curry concoctions and other tasty dishes. Being an island with a tropical climate, Sri Lankan food is abundant with coconuts and fish, as well as rice and roti. Dishes are often accompanied by pickled fruits or vegetables and chutneys.

Sri Lankan food is generally spicy to western taste, so be mindful of this when ordering food. The cuisine offers a myriad of options for vegetarians, gluten and dairy free diets, as most meals are dominantly coconut milk based and rice is the staple food.

These are some of the most common dishes:

Jackfruit Curry: In this flavoursome dish, jackfruit is curried and cooked with meat or served alone with rice. The jackfruit is common in Sri Lanka and its flesh is starchy and fibrous, making it perfect for curries.

Gotukola Sambol: A fresh salad made from finely chopped gotukola (a small, herbaceous plant), red onion, shredded coconut and spices. A Sri Lankan tabouli.

Pittu: These flour and coconut cakes are made from flour, shredded coconut and desiccated coconut, and steamed in bamboo. Perfect with a fresh coconut milk.

Cassava Chips: For around LKR50 you’ll receive a small paper bag of salty cassava chips from street food carts throughout Sri Lanka. Made from cassava, a nutritious root vegetable, much of its goodness is zapped during the deep-frying process. Although not particularly healthy, cassava chips should be tried at least once.

Watalappan: This is a coconut custard pudding made of coconut milk or condensed milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, various spices, including cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. This is a common Sri Lankan dessert, usually made around the Sinhala and Tamil New Year or Muslim holiday, Ramadan.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

Phone reception will be available intermittently. If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card with data. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. Your local guide can assist with setting up a local SIM card.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to electricity at your hotel.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Twin-share accommodation in 2 to 3-star hotels and lodges
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Entrance and sightseeing fees

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include:

  • Airfares
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow Rs 3,500 (AUD$30) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping your local guide is customary, but not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is Rs 10,000 (approx AUD$80) to be given in the local currency. Tipping in restaurants and taxis is customary. 

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is a requirement that Australia and New Zealand passport holders have a valid visa to enter Sri Lanka. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

About Sri Lanka

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?

While in Sri Lanka, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or be mindful of your valuables such as cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities.

When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe.

These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

What weather can I expect?

Sri Lanka is located just north of the equator, and so has hot and humid weather through much of the year. We travel at times that avoid the monsoon season.

Can I drink the water in Sri Lanka?

Even in the cities it is not safe to drink the tap water. It can cause severe illness like diarrhoea. Purified drinking water in bottles is available everywhere, and is generally quite cheap. 

 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Sri Lanka?

We recommend that you carry local currency in small denominations, some Australian dollars, an ATM card and a credit card. 

ATMs are widely available throughout Sri Lanka, with the exception of remote or rural communities. Even so, there will be small towns where you will have access to ATMs, so speak to your local guide. Transactions will usually incur a small fee. We advise that you check with your bank prior to departure regarding international withdrawals and associated costs. 

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. 

The Sri Lanka trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.

Who will I be travelling with? 

Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.

The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team. Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share 3-Star hotels and comfortable camping. Most hotels are equipped with basic amenities. Laundry facilities are available at hotels, for an additional cost.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What is the food like? 

Sri Lankan food has parallels to South Indian food, but remains distinctly its own cuisine. Throughout years of influence from other countries, Sri Lanka has adapted its food culture into a blend of different curry concoctions and other tasty dishes. Being an island with a tropical climate, Sri Lankan food is abundant with coconuts and fish, as well as rice and roti. Dishes are often accompanied by pickled fruits or vegetables and chutneys.

Sri Lankan food is generally spicy to western taste, so be mindful of this when ordering food. The cuisine offers a myriad of options for vegetarians, gluten and dairy free diets, as most meals are dominantly coconut milk based and rice is the staple food.

These are some of the most common dishes:

Jackfruit Curry: In this flavoursome dish, jackfruit is curried and cooked with meat or served alone with rice. The jackfruit is common in Sri Lanka and its flesh is starchy and fibrous, making it perfect for curries.

Gotukola Sambol: A fresh salad made from finely chopped gotukola (a small, herbaceous plant), red onion, shredded coconut and spices. A Sri Lankan tabouli.

Pittu: These flour and coconut cakes are made from flour, shredded coconut and desiccated coconut, and steamed in bamboo. Perfect with a fresh coconut milk.

Cassava Chips: For around LKR50 you’ll receive a small paper bag of salty cassava chips from street food carts throughout Sri Lanka. Made from cassava, a nutritious root vegetable, much of its goodness is zapped during the deep-frying process. Although not particularly healthy, cassava chips should be tried at least once.

Watalappan: This is a coconut custard pudding made of coconut milk or condensed milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, various spices, including cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. This is a common Sri Lankan dessert, usually made around the Sinhala and Tamil New Year or Muslim holiday, Ramadan.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

Phone reception will be available intermittently. If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card with data. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. Your local guide can assist with setting up a local SIM card.

Will I have access to electricity?

Yes, you will have access to electricity at your hotel.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

Costs and payments

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Twin-share accommodation in 2 to 3-star hotels and lodges
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Entrance and sightseeing fees

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include:

  • Airfares
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.

Why do I need to pay a registration fee? 

When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow Rs 3,500 (AUD$30) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping your local guide is customary, but not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is Rs 10,000 (approx AUD$80) to be given in the local currency. Tipping in restaurants and taxis is customary. 

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is a requirement that Australia and New Zealand passport holders have a valid visa to enter Sri Lanka. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

About Sri Lanka

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?

While in Sri Lanka, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or be mindful of your valuables such as cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities.

When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe.

These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

What weather can I expect?

Sri Lanka is located just north of the equator, and so has hot and humid weather through much of the year. We travel at times that avoid the monsoon season.

Can I drink the water in Sri Lanka?

Even in the cities it is not safe to drink the tap water. It can cause severe illness like diarrhoea. Purified drinking water in bottles is available everywhere, and is generally quite cheap. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Sri Lanka?

We recommend that you carry local currency in small denominations, some Australian dollars, an ATM card and a credit card. 

ATMs are widely available throughout Sri Lanka, with the exception of remote or rural communities. Even so, there will be small towns where you will have access to ATMs, so speak to your local guide. Transactions will usually incur a small fee. We advise that you check with your bank prior to departure regarding international withdrawals and associated costs. 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Reviews

Past adventurers rated their overall experience on the Sri Lanka trek as 4.77 out of 5

★★★★★


“I met great people, climbed a mountain, trekked a great country, and made a difference for girls.”

Susanne Legena

Plan's Trek for Girls: Sri Lanka 2018

★★★★★


“Challenging, relaxing, emotional, and it really extended my view of who I am and what I can accomplish- it broadened my view of me!”

Keryn Short

Plan's Trek for Girls: Sri Lanka 2018
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Responsible Travel

Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral. 
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good

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We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.