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.

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 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.

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. 

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.

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.