Sri Lanka Walking, Culture and Foodie tour

Tour Overview

This focused walking holiday is designed to showcase the urban areas, nature and colonial history of Sri Lanka. The modern side of Sri Lanka can be seen in Colombo. Bustling markets, dense suburbs, tucked away parks and temples, tall buildings – all mixed together. This is then contrasted when you head into the countryside, with farms and small villages. Get a glimpse of village life and enjoy Sri Lanka’s nature and wildlife. Lastly, it’s on to Galle to see the colonial impact in Sri Lanka - a mix of cultures co-existing and influencing each other. Despite high tourist density, Kalypso endeavour to show you the local life away from the normal touristy areas.

Sri Lanka Walking, Culture & Foodie Holiday

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Day 1: Colombo: On arrival, you will be met at the airport and driven to Colombo (1hr). Spend some time relaxing after your flight. Around 5PM you will set out on a food walk through the historical “Fort” district. Heavily influenced by the colonial powers who occupied Sri Lanka from 1600s onwards, there are Portuguese, Dutch and British influences in the architecture. The food is similarly an eclectic mix, of Indian, Malaysian, Muslim and Sri Lankan. Walk through the bustling market streets; grab a G&T at the port before dinner at a local roadside restaurant.
Day 2: Colombo: Today will be spent walking off the previous nights’ indulgence. You walk through Colombo to get a glimpse of life in the capital city through the city’s memorials, suburbs, parks, financial district, temples and lakes. Sit on a bench and people-watch or grab a refreshing King Coconut while relaxing in the shade. There’s no better way to experience a city than on foot. A few transfers by car will be done to help cover the maximum ground.
Day 3: Ratnapura: Heading away from the bustle of urban areas today you will be move towards the inland districts of Ratnapura. Low land tea, rubber estates, paddy and spices fill the surroundings. You spend the next three days in a little hotel by a lake almost hidden from the outside world. Spend the evening walking the hotel grounds and exploring the organic garden.
Day 4: Singharaja: Today you head to the country's last viable area of primary tropical rainforest. More than 60% of the trees are endemic and many of them are considered rare. The reserve is only 21 km from east to west, and a maximum of 7 km from north to south, but it is a treasure trove of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. You will be taken on a guided walk inside the forest with a local naturalist.
Day 5: Ratnapura Countryside: On day 5 you explore the surrounding greenery and farm life. Go on a walk through the rubber plantations and small villages - such a contrast from the urban settings of Colombo.
Day 6: Galle: It’s onto beautiful Galle today. The 17th century Dutch Fort town is a UNESCO heritage site. Galle boasts an interesting mix of religions, cultures and ethnicities. Once settled in you can spend the evening exploring the fort and catching the sunset from the ramparts.
Day 7: Galle: A leisurely day - when you can lounge around in the morning! For lunch, meet up with a resident who will take you shopping in the local market. Learn to prepare a delicious meal with a Galle- based host whose expertise in cooking has brought her much fame in the area. Whether it’s a Biryani, a seafood feast or hot hoppers with accompaniments, she will take you through an unforgettable culinary journey.
Day 8: Departure: Your holiday ends today. You will be transferred to the airport.