Outdoor Adventures in Sri Lanka: Kitulgala, Kandy, Ella & Unawatuna - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Kitulgala, Whitewater Rafting 

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, head outside to meet your driver and transfer to your hotel in Kitulgala, nestled in the lush rainforests of the western foothills. As you approach the town, you may recognize the area from David Lean's 1957 epic, "The Bridge on the River Khwai." Check in and get ready to go whitewater rafting on the dramatic Kelani River, where you'll encounter a perfect blend of Class II and III rapids suitable for both beginners and experts.

Complete a safety briefing, don your gear, and then jump in the raft to navigate 4 miles (6.5 km) of the turbulent waters. Each rapid presents its own unique set of challenges: the "Rib Cage" with its narrow, turbulent passage; the "Head Chopper," known for its powerful waves that demand precise navigation; and the "Butter Crunch," which combines steep drops with a jarring, crunchy impact. After 90 minutes on the water, transfer back to your hotel to dry off and relax for the night.

Day 2: Guided Hike to Belilena Cave & Sandun Ella Waterfall

Lace up your hiking boots and stretch your legs in preparation for a guided hike through the lush, tropical rainforest surrounding Kitulgala. Follow your guide through the dense foliage, revealing an array of exotic plants, towering trees, and colorful orchids. Along the way, you'll cross gurgling streams, walk through dense tea and rubber plantations, and pass traditional villages. Eventually, you'll reach Belilena Cave, one of the country's largest prehistoric caves. Step inside to admire the ancient rock art and inscriptions providing a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants.

Back outside, cool down under a refreshing stream that drops over the cave's mouth before continuing to Sandun Ella Waterfall. Watch the 100-foot-tall (30 m) waterfall cascade into an infinity pool that offers panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Go for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water and enjoy a natural hydro-massage to rejuvenate you for the trek back. 

Day 3: Transfer to Kandy, Guided City Tour

Trade the western foothills for the Central Highlands this morning as you transfer two hours northeast to the city of Kandy, considered Sri Lanka's cultural capital. When you arrive, hit the ground running on a guided tour of the area, starting at the Royal Palace, nestled on the edge of Lake Kandy. Once the residence of the Kandyan kings, this historic palace is an architectural marvel with its grand halls, intricately carved wooden panels, and elegantly tiled floors. Wander through the complex and admire the well-preserved rooms, like the audience hall and queen's bath, before continuing to Sri Dalada Maligawa.

Known as the "Temple of the Sacred Tooth," this revered Buddhist temple houses a relic believed to be Buddha's tooth, making it one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism. End your day with a 45-minute transfer to Peradeniya, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Spanning over 148 acres (60 ha), the gardens are renowned for their impressive collection of tropical and subtropical plants, including towering palms, exotic orchids, and lush bamboo groves. Stroll through the garden, passing water features, historical structures, and sections like the World Spice Garden. 

Day 4: Transfer to Ella, Visit Lipton's Seat & Dambatenne Tea Factory

After a restful night in Kandy, set off on a 3.5-hour transfer to Ella, a picturesque town situated among verdant tea plantations and mist-covered mountains. When you arrive, head to Lipton's Seat, a scenic lookout perched high above the surrounding hills, valleys, and tea plantations. The viewpoint was named after Sir Thomas Lipton, a Scottish merchant who was instrumental in establishing Sri Lanka's tea industry. It's said he used to sit here to survey his vast tea estates. Get a close-up look at one of these estates as you head to Dambatenne Tea Factory next for a tour of the fields and facilities. 

Witness each stage of tea processing, from withering and rolling to fermentation and drying, using both traditional methods and modern innovations. Conclude with a tasting session overlooking the tea hills to savor a world-class cup of Ceylon tea. Following the tour, the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish. You could head to Ravana Falls; it's just 10 minutes outside of the city and easily accessible as it's next to the road. Admire the 82-foot (25 m) cascade, then jump into the natural pool below for a cooling swim.

Day 5: Transfer to Unawatuna, Hike to Diyaluma Waterfall, Explore Galle

Say goodbye to Ella this morning as you head to your final destination, Unawatuna, a quaint beach town on the southern coast. After the three-hour transfer, check into your hotel and change into your hiking gear for a trek to Diyaluma Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the country at 721 feet (220 m). Start with a scenic walk through verdant tea plantations and tropical forests, gradually ascending to reveal panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. When you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a refreshing dip overlooking the cascade below. 

After the hike, transfer 10 minutes along the coast to Galle, known for its well-preserved Galle Dutch Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 but was expanded and fortified by the Dutch beginning in 1659. Step through the fort's grand gates and discover the narrow streets within lined with lively cafés, quaint boutiques, and grand colonial mansions. Enjoy some free time to go shopping for souvenirs at the bustling markets, climb the ramparts offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, or savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at a local restaurant before returning to Unawatuna.

Day 6: Free Day in Unawatuna: Beach Time & Whale Watching

Your penultimate day in Sri Lanka is free for you to spend as you wish. You could head to Unawatuna Beach to relax on the golden sand framed by swaying palm trees and clear turquoise waters. The beach's gentle waves make it ideal for swimming and leisurely paddles, while the nearby coral reefs offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling to discover vibrant marine life. You may spot butterfly fish, parrotfish, and clownfish darting among the coral or a graceful sea turtle gliding by. 

If you're visiting between November and April, opt for a dolphin and whale watching cruise in Mirissa, just 45 minutes down the coast. Board a boat with an experienced naturalist, who will teach you about the marine creatures you may spot and their typical behaviors. The area is renowned for frequent sightings of blue whales (the largest animals on the planet), along with sperm whales and playful pods of dolphins. You may also spot Bryde's whales and orcas, so keep your cameras ready in case you see a fin or tail appear above the water. 

Day 7: Transfer to Colombo, Depart

After rafting, hiking, and exploring diverse landscapes across Sri Lanka, your one-week active adventure comes to an end today. If you have time before your flight, you can continue exploring the area on your own. Return to Unawatuna Beach to soak up the sun or head to a local market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. This is your last chance for authentic Sri Lankan food, so stop for street food dishes like kottu roti (chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat or seafood. When it's time, meet your driver and transfer 2.5 hours to the airport in Colombo. Safe travels!