Adventurous Tour in Sri Lanka

Head inland to the Cultural Triangle, home to many of the island’s most spectacular ancient ruins. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel before heading out in the cooler evening air to climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the most dramatic, inspiring and beautiful historical locations in the world. The following day, work off that excess energy with an exploration of  Ritigala ancient monastery, or a game drive in search of elephants at Minneriya.

Rise in the early hours and begin the day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at dawn. As the sun begins to stain the sky red and gold, soar above the arid plains and jungle landscape and gaze in wonder at the ruins which still jut proudly up from the earth. Upon landing enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne. The rest of the morning is spent transferring to a remote village in the Knuckles Mountain Range So named because of its resemblance to a set of knuckles on a clenched fist, the Knuckles Conservation Range consists of five mountain peaks and several other smaller peaks, with the highest point about 6,000 ft above sea level.

The next two days will be spent  trekking in the Knuckles alongside terraced paddy fields and tea plantations, rivers and waterfalls, through dense forests and small rural village communities – all of which boast beautiful animal and plant life. The backdrop to this remote wilderness could not be more picturesque: panoramic views of misty mountains and spectacular valleys, ancient rock formations, lush forests and gurgling streams. Knuckles is an unmissable, unique blend of nature, culture and adventure.

A journey to the hill country – and its liveliest and youngest town – Ella. From here you can enjoy an evening trek to  Little Adams Peak to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Hike up to Nine Arches Bridge or to Ella Rock, a two-hour mildly strenuous climb with panoramic views at the summit. Go on a mountain bike trip to Ella Waterfall and ride through rural lanes and tea plantations. Tread in the footsteps of Sir Thomas Lipton, an early developer of Sri Lanka’s tea industry with a walk up to his favourite viewpoint at  Lipton’s Seat.

A satisfying morning winding westwards through wonderful hill country scenery ends by lunchtime at Kitulgala, the centre of Sri Lanka’s river sports. Kitulgala Forest Reserve owes its popularity to the Kelani River, which offers exciting Grade 3 rapids for rafting – as well as rapids suitable for beginners. Rise early to the sound of bird call and the gushing river before indulging in some of the exhilarating activities on offer here, which include kayaking, rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, abseiling and hiking. We propose camping here, but a selection of the best eco-retreats is also available.

We finish how we started – with some blissful beach days. Sri Lanka’s south coast offers plenty of water-based activities. Learn to surf at Weligama, or take a boat into the deep seas in search of whales and dolphins. Mirissa Water Sports offers water-sports activities including  river cruising, sailing, fishing, sea kayaking and snorkelling. All-day catamaran cruises are also available from our reputable suppliers.