SRI LANKA CULTURAL & CHARITY TOUR

Day 1  (Arrive Columbo)

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, you will be transferred to your hotel in Colombo. Most flights incl. Australia arrive in Colombo late at night. If you arrive around midday, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city—savouring local cuisine, mingling with locals, and admiring the rich heritage and culture of vibrant Colombo. Pre-tour stays and transportation can be arranged upon request.

Day 2 -  Colombo - Sigiriya

Venture on a Tuk Tuk expedition in Colombo to Discover Colombo’s charm on three wheels! Ride through iconic landmarks and hidden corners, starting at Galle Face Green and into the colonial heart of Colombo Fort, passing the Old Dutch Hospital, Cargills Building, and Old Parliament. Roam through the lively streets of Pettah, admire the striking Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, and visit the serene Gangaramaya Temple. Glide by Beira Lake to reach the floating Seema Malakaya Temple, a masterpiece by Geoffrey Bawa; one of the one of the most influential architects in Sri Lanka. Pass through the tranquil Independence Square and the elegant Cinnamon Gardens, before stopping at Lady Ridgeway Hospital for insights into local healthcare. Speak with hospital officials and understand the current needs, and with our charity partners; determine the type of aid required and the appropriate timeline for its delivery. Enjoy a tasty Sri Lankan lunch before heading off on a scenic drive to Sigiriya.

Day 3 – Sigiriya – Sigiriya

Cycle 23 kms. ascent 83m, descent 68m

Set out on an unforgettable journey through the serene countryside surrounding Sigiriya with breathtaking views of both Pidurangala Rock and the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Your cycling route winds through the quiet village of Thalkote, leading to the tranquil Thalkotawewa reservoir. Along the way witness age-old farming practices such as paddy cultivation and slash-and-burn (chena) farming—techniques still commonly used by local communities.

Visit a local Primary School before continuing toward Pidurangala and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Ride through lush forest backroads and arrive at a traditional home to participate in an authentic village cooking experience. Harvest your own fresh organic vegetables from the garden and prepare a delicious meal using traditional methods. Enjoy your freshly cooked lunch in the warm hospitality of your village hosts.

After lunch, continue your ride through remote villages and along the scenic Elahera Canal, eventually arriving at the entrance to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Conclude your day by exploring this impressive UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 4  Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya

Cycle 59 kms  ascent 147m descent 276m

Cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa, with its ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. It was the Capital of Sri Lanka from 11th to 13th century. The ancient city defended by enclosing walls, is dotted with palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. The Gal Vihara temple complex, consists of statues of the recumbent, standing and seated Buddha and ranks among the masterpieces of Sri Lankan Art.

After lunch head to Minneriya for an afternoon safari adventure. Renowned for the spectacular “Elephant Gathering,” Minneriya hosts the largest known congregation of Asian elephants in the world, where 300–400 elephants can gather during the dry season. They migrate to the Minneriya Tank, an ancient reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. The tank’s lush grasslands and ample water attract elephants in large numbers, creating a breathtaking display. After witnessing these gentle giants roam and play across the open plains, it’s time to head to your hotel in Sigiriya.

Day 5 Sigiriya – Kandy

Cycle 53 kms ascent 391m descent 276m

Today head to the central hill lands of the island. The ride from Sigiriya to Dambulla via Kandalama Tank is an amazing ride that blends nature, history, and culture. Mostly flat with some gentle inclines, ride through lush paddy fields and quiet village roads providing great rural cultural insights. Visit a stunning reservoir surrounded by jungle and the famous Heritance Kandalama hotel. The next stop is the famed Dambulla Cave Temple which has five caves featuring Buddha Statues and frescos. The newly built Golden Buddha Statue is another highlight of the day.

Cycle another 20km towards Kandy with scenic detours up to Naula, from there you will be transferred to Kandy in the coach. The nights’ accommodation is at Thilanka Hotel which is located very close to Kandy Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Day 6

Cycle  22 kms  ascent 709m descent 727m

After a hearty hotel breakfast, set off on a scenic cycling adventure through the enchanting hill country of Kandy. Ride towards Hantana, a region renowned for its lush tea estates, colonial charm, and rich cultural heritage. Continue through Ampitiya for great scenery and ancient temple shrines.  

After the days cycling, immerse yourself with a hands-on cultural experience at a traditional batik workshop. Create your own batik masterpiece—a unique and memorable way to connect with Sri Lanka’s artistic traditions. Later, head into Kandy to visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic — the holiest Buddhist site in Sri Lanka. After your visit there is ample time to explore the city at your own pace or just relax before dinner.  

Day 7 Kandy – Nuwara Ellya

43m Cycle 41 kms ascent 1342 descent 1385m

Today experience a cycling journey that winds through the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands — a path less travelled yet rich with natural beauty, cool mountain air, and quiet village life. This scenic route from Hantana to Pussellawa takes you through the charming hamlets of Doluwa and Atabage, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and countryside charm. Enjoy picturesque mountain scenery, terraced tea estates, native forests and quaint villages. From Pussellawa take the coach on to your Nuwara Ellya hotel accommodation.            

Time before dinner to take a guided walking tour of Nuwara Ellya. Referred to as "Little England," it showcases a charming blend of colonial and Tudor-style architecture, along with notable historical landmarks and sacred temples.  

Day 8 Nuwara – Tour end

After breakfast, enjoy a short drive from your hotel to a nearby tea factory and learn how world-renowned Ceylon Tea is crafted Enjoy a brew before returning to the hotel for check out. From here it is a half day scenic coach journey to Colombo in preparation for departure. For those departing today, check in to a comfortable airport hotel where you can unwind using the hotels leisure facilities before your flight.