Item Code: LK-2401
$4200.00

Perennial Pathways (LK-2401)

LK-2401

Perennial Pathways

Sri Lanka – 20 Days Group Tour | A permaculture pilgrimage

The Perennial Pathways – a permaculture pilgrimage,  invites you on a captivating 20-day journey through Sri Lanka’s profound permaculture heritage and iconic tourist attractions. Explore cultural wonders and witness ancient hydrological engineering feats. Discover biodiversity at GIHAS sites like Ellanga Gammana and traverse the Kandyan Forest Garden Homes with 2000-year-old agroforestry practices. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Sigiriya, Dambulla, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy, Galle, and the breathtaking Horton Plains. Yala National Park and the picture perfect Minneriya National Park 4X4 Wildlife Safaris give a different dimension altogether. Experience the scenic Ella Odyssey train ride from Kandy. But what truly sets this journey apart is the chance to immerse yourself in eco-friendly lifestyles alongside Indigenous people and modest farmers. Actively participate in local cultures, forging meaningful connections. Our affordable luxury tour includes accommodations, meals, and guided experiences, contributing to sustainable practices and community resilience. Join us for indelible memories that touch the soul of Sri Lanka’s iconic attractions.

Start and End Location
Colombo Airport
Departure Time
Mondays 08:00 AM from Negombo Hotel ( Arrive on a Sunday)
Price

USD 4200/= per person on double or twin share

Tour Inclusions
Tour Exclusions
Complimentary

As we set forth on this remarkable Perennial Pathways – a permaculture pilgrimage, let’s leave behind the mundane and embrace a journey that transcends mere sightseeing. Imagine stepping into a world where ancient wisdom intertwines with modern aspirations, a place where hydrological marvels whisper stories of resilience, and sacred mountains echo with the footsteps of history. From bustling cities, serene gardens to close encounters with wildlife, from the grandeur of stupas to the coastal vistas, each day promises more than exploration, it’s an invitation to connect, learn, and leave a positive footprint. So, let’s begin, an odyssey that transcends not only landscapes but also resonates with the very essence of the people who call Sri Lanka home.

Upon landing at Colombo Airport, proceed through immigration. Next, head to the duty-free shopping area. If you’re interested in purchasing duty-free items, the shop staff will assist you and provide information on special offers and allowances. If you have checked-in baggage, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect it. Clear Sri Lanka Customs via the Green Channel. Our staff will be waiting to warmly welcome you and then transfer you to a popular beachfront stay in Negombo. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Negombo, known for its diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options. At your accommodation, enjoy a relaxing overnight stay with dinner. The evening is yours to unwind and explore the surroundings

After an early breakfast, check out of the hotel. We depart at 8:00 AM to explore Avukana. On our way to Kalawewa, we’ll visit the 5th-century Buddha statue. Upon reaching Kala Wewa, marvel at King Dhatusena’s hydraulic civilization and the reservoir’s ancient irrigation engineering. Explore the colossal spillway and the Bisokotuwa, which is likely the world’s first valve pit design. Next, we’ll head to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check in at Anuradhapura Hotel and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, visit Mihintale, a sacred mountain dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Explore the ancient stupas and the grand staircase. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the advanced water management system at the site. Finally, return to Anuradhapura, where we’ll conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at Anuradhapura Hotel.

After breakfast, meet in the hotel lobby at 8:00 AM for the Ritigala tour. Hop onto Tuk-Tuks for an exhilarating ride to Ritigala, the main catchment area of the Malwathu Oya watershed. Explore ancient ruins dating back to the 1st century BCE, including remnants of a hospital, meditation platforms, and terraced gardens. Be amazed by the intricate water management system seamlessly integrated into the natural environment. Next, we’ll return to our vehicle and head to Tirappane. There, we’ll enjoy a home-cooked village meal before immersing ourselves in the Cascaded Village Tank System (CTVS). Recognized by the FAO as a Globally Important Heritage Agriculture System (GIHAS), the CTVS showcases the harmonious coexistence of communities and their surroundings. Amid lush landscapes, we’ll delve into the various components of this remarkable system. Our journey continues with a visit to Nachchaduwa Wewa Nature Park, followed by an exploration of King Dhatusena’s Kalawewa – Jaya Ganga irrigation system components. As the day winds down, we’ll capture breathtaking sunset views at Nachchaduwa Wewa. Finally, we’ll return to Anuradhapura for dinner and an overnight stay.

Join us in the hotel lobby after breakfast at 8:30 AM to embark on a journey through the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our itinerary includes visits to remarkable attractions such as Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi—the oldest living human-planted tree with a rich history—Jethawanaramaya (the world’s tallest stupa), Twin Ponds, Samadhi Buddha Statue, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Elephant Pond, and the enigmatic Star Gate of Anuradhapura. After a fulfilling morning, we’ll return to the hotel for lunch, check out, and regroup at 01:45 PM to head to Dambulla. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Sam Popham’s Arboretum, renowned for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. Our day concludes with an evening visit to Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO site boasting over 150 Buddha statues. Finally, we’ll check in at Habarana Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Starting at 8:00 AM after breakfast, we’ll gather in the hotel lobby for an exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Polonnaruwa. Prepare to immerse yourself in the intricate architecture of significant landmarks, including the Pothgul Vehera Complex, the Palace of King Parakramabahu, and the captivating Polonnaruwa Vatadage, believed to have once housed the Relic of the tooth of Lord Buddha. As we wander through ancient structures like Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Hetadage, and Satmahal Prasada, each stone whispers a tale of Polonnaruwa’s regal past. Iconic sites such as Gal Vihara and Nelum Pokuna await our admiration. Our morning tour will conclude with a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. But the adventure doesn’t end there! Brace yourself for an exhilarating 4X4 Wildlife Safari in Minneriya National Park, where the historic Minneriya Tank stands as a sanctuary. This area is recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s Important Bird Areas, boasting diverse habitats and a rich tapestry of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic species like the Sri Lankan Leopard and the Purple-Faced Langur. After this immersive wildlife experience, we’ll return to the hotel, where the day culminates with dinner and an overnight stay in Habarana.

We’ve intentionally slowed down for a relaxed day. Our focus today is the Hiriwadunna Village Experience, where we delve into Sri Lanka’s rural past. Meet us at the lobby at 10:00 AM for a catamaran ride across Hiriwadunna Village Tank and a leisurely village stroll. You’ll get to enjoy a home-cooked lunch with fresh veggies and lake fish, participate in traditional activities, and conclude the day with a charming bullock cart ride for a unique rural perspective.

For optional activities, just let us know, and we’ll simplify self-exploration with transfers and entry tickets. Adventure seekers can explore Pidurangala Rock either before sunrise or during a late afternoon tour, after returning from the Hiriwadunna village experience. Alternatively, you can opt for an afternoon visit to the Sigiriya Museum. Rest assured, we’ll pick up participants post-activity, ensuring a seamless return. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at Habarana.

To explore Sigiriya, we begin our day at 5:45 AM. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often hailed as the 8th Wonder of the World, awaits our discovery. The guided tour lasts 3 to 3.5 hours, leading us through the ancient rock fortress known as Lion Rock. As we ascend, we marvel at the remnants of the royal palace, the vibrant frescoes, the mirror wall, and the imposing lion’s paw entrance that leads to the summit. After this captivating exploration, we have a choice: return to the hotel for breakfast or continue our journey at the Sigiriya Museum. The museum provides valuable insights into Sigiriya’s rich historical and cultural significance. Around midday, we check out from our hotel and head to the Giritale Hotel for a leisurely lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. In the evening, we venture to Diya Beduma to experience the fascinating water-sharing system. Finally, we conclude our day with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay at the Giritale Hotel.

After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel to depart at 08:30 AM. Our day begins at Maduru Oya National Park, where we explore the Ancient Sluice dating back to the 1st century BCE, a testament to ancient engineering excellence. After lunch, we visit Wanniyalaeto, the village of the Vedda people, who are the island’s first inhabitants and indigenous community. Like many indigenous groups worldwide, they grapple with land loss due to deforestation, development, and wildlife regulations affecting their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. Our journey continues to Sorabora Wewa, where we learn about a unique sluice gate built in the 2nd century BCE, a feature found only in Sri Lanka. Finally, we reach Mahiyanganaya, the site where Buddha made his first visit to Sri Lanka in the 6th century BCE. We conclude the day by checking into our Mahiyanganaya hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. For those interested in visiting the Mahiyangana Temple, the ideal time is after dinner, please let us know, and we’ll be happy to facilitate the visit.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel for an 08:30 AM departure. Our journey from Mahiyangana to Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka, begins with a scenic drive along the Loggal Oya reservoir embankment and the Mahaweli River, exploring both ancient and modern landmarks. Delve into the history of the Minipe Ancient Anicut, a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient kings Mahasen (276–303 AD) and Aggabodhi I (575–608 AD). Witness modern landmarks like the Randenigala Dam and Victoria Dam. After we arrive in Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we check in to our Kandy hotel for lunch and a brief respite. The evening features the Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show, offering a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s traditional dance forms. Conclude the day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, experiencing its historical and religious significance, before returning to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Our leisurely exploration begins with a morning visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, founded in 1821 with a history dating back to 1371. Situated near the Mahaweli Ganga, these gardens span 150 acres at an elevation of 1550 feet. They have witnessed historical events like the Battle of Gannoruwa in 1638. Despite destruction during the English occupation in 1815, they now host over 4000 plant species and house the “National Herbarium of Sri Lanka.” This morning exploration serves as a testament to centuries of botanical exploration and concludes with a return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy scenic views at the Kandy City Viewpoint, Arthur’s Seat, standing at 1790 feet. From here, you’ll be treated to a captivating panorama of Kandy, the lake, and the Temple of the Tooth. As the sun sets, this viewpoint becomes a must-see, offering Instagram-worthy shots. The day concludes with a return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we depart at 08:30 AM to visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, the world’s first establishment established in 1975 as a pioneering wildlife conservation project. Home to the world’s largest herd of captive elephants, you’ll witness the daily activities of 71 elephants spanning three generations, including bottle-feeding and bathing in the Ma Oya River. Enjoy lunch at the scenic Pinnawala Restaurant, which overlooks the elephant bath. In the afternoon, explore the biodiversity and socio-ecological significance of Kandyan Forest Home Gardens, Asia’s oldest agroforestry system. Immerse yourself in this rich environment, savor Sri Lankan sweetmeats, and visit Embekke Devalaya for intricate wood carvings. Conclude your day with a visit to the architecturally remarkable Lankathilaka Vihara before returning to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

After enjoying an early breakfast, check out at 07:30 AM to embark on the enchanting Ella Odyssey Tourist Train ride, an internationally acclaimed scenic rail experience. The leisurely train journey winds through mist-draped mountains, picturesque villages, Victorian-era railway stations, and vibrant tea plantations, revealing Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes. By midday, you’ll arrive at Nanu Oya, the nearest station to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as ‘Little England.’ Upon arrival, transfer to Nuwara Eliya, complete the check-in process, and savor a delightful lunch at the hotel. The afternoon invites exploration of Nuwara Eliya’s city attractions, including the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, the sacred Sita Amman Temple, and the serene Lake Gregory. We do a drive- pass city tour with photo stops at iconic landmarks like the Nuwara Eliya Racecourse, the Grand Hotel, and St. Xavier’s Church. As the day draws to a close, indulge in a colonial-style dining experience at The Hill Club Nuwara Eliya before retiring to the rooms for a restful overnight stay.

After an early breakfast, check out at 7:00 AM. Begin your day with a journey to Horton Plains National Park, which is part of the Peak Wilderness Area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore diverse ecosystems, ranging from montane grasslands to cloud forests, at elevations between 6,900 and 7,500 feet. This UNESCO site is home to 52 endemic bird species and various wildlife, and it boasts iconic landmarks like World’s End and Baker’s Falls. With historical roots dating back to the prehistoric Balangoda culture, which practiced cereal cultivation around 30,000–10,000 BCE, Horton Plains reveals its fascinating past. After your exploration, head to Ella for a late lunch, check in at the Ella Hotel, and enjoy some free time for relaxation or individual exploration. In the evening, soak up the laid-back atmosphere of Ella Town, followed by dinner at a popular tourist restaurant. The day concludes peacefully back at the Ella Hotel for an overnight stay.

Begin your day with a leisurely morning, perfect for unwinding or embarking on a self-guided adventure. Unfortunately, we recommend excluding Nil Diya Pokuna, a popular attraction in Ella, due to unprofessional operators and safety concerns. Instead, consider visiting the tranquil Secret Waterfall, a beautiful spot for bathing, with convenient transportation arrangements. Alternatively, explore the Haputale area independently. We can assist you in negotiating with a Tuk-Tuk driver for a round trip. Start by visiting the Dambetenna tea factory, followed by Lipton’s Seat and Adisham Bungalow. Just be sure to return in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll explore fascinating colonial-era railway wonders: the remarkable Demodara Railway Loop and the unique Demodara Railway Station, the only station in the world positioned directly over a tunnel within a spiral loop. Don’t miss the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a testament to railway engineering. Wrap up your day with an exhilarating adventure at Flying Ravana Adventure Park. Then, embark on a scenic hike to Little Adam’s Peak, where panoramic views awaits at sunset  (or sunrise). Finally, return to Ella Hotel for dinner and a restful overnight stay.

After breakfast we check-out from the hotel for 08:30AM to proceed to Yala.  Enroute we will stop briefly at Ravana Falls. We will visit the  Dhamma Pradeepa Meditation Center in Wellawaya. We will receive an introduction to vipassana meditation, an ancient technique passed down since Lord Buddha’s time. Its goal is to eradicate mental impurities and achieve liberation. Practitioners observe physical sensations, dissolving impurity for a balanced mind with heightened awareness, self-control, and peace. To learn or master the technique, one typically follows a 10-day residential program. Then we will proceed to Yala, upon reaching Yala, we will check into our forest hotel for lunch and relaxation. As afternoons provide better chances to encounter elephants, deer, and leopards in Yala National Park, an iconic landmark of Sri Lanka, we will explore this. Our drive will take us through the forest with knowledgeable guides in open-air 4×4 jeeps, allowing us to spot diverse flora and fauna. Concluding the day’s activities by  returning to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Today, we depart at 10:00 AM, allowing you a leisurely break to enjoy Palatupana Beach. By midday, we reach Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After checking into a colonial-era villa, we savor a delightful lunch and unwind. The afternoon unfolds with cultural exploration at the Galle National Museum, housed in the oldest Dutch building within Galle Fort. The museum showcases exhibits from colonial periods. Next, we delve into Sri Lanka’s maritime history at the National Maritime Museum. Our journey continues to Rumassala Hill, steeped in the Ramayana tale, and adorned with unique herbs. We also visit Jungle Beach. As evening descends, we explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda, capturing captivating sunset views. Finally, we return to the villa for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay.

We start our day with an early morning 05:15 AM departure on the  Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari off Mirissa, where we’ll be awestruck by the majestic Blue and Sperm whales, as well as playful dolphins in the Indian Ocean. After this exhilarating experience at sea, we head back to the villa for a leisurely lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, our exploration takes us to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our drive-pass sightseeing tour, we’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as the historic Ramparts, the Dutch Hospital, Galle Lighthouse, Meeran Mosque, All Saints Church, Groote Kerk, Galle Clock Tower, and the International Cricket Stadium. As the day winds down, we immerse ourselves in Sri Lanka’s rich culture and tradition at Laksala Galle, where meticulously crafted handicrafts and exquisite traditional gems await. Perhaps you’ll discover a special souvenir to bring back home. As the sun sets, we return to the villa for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay

After breakfast, we check-out from the villa for an 08:30 AM departure to Colombo. Along the way, we will visit the Ariyapala Mask Museum, explore the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, and by midday, we should reach the suburbs of Colombo. There, we will visit the National Sandalwood Garden, which offers a nice view of the parliamentary complex and is considered another masterpiece by renowned architect Jeffery Bawa. A visit to Ape Gama immerses us in a simulated traditional Sri Lankan village, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, we will explore Independence Square and the National Museum. The day concludes with a visit to the captivating Gangaramaya Temple. We will check-in to a hotel centrally located in the Colombo Fort area for dinner and an overnight stay. You can also explore the Dutch Hospital precinct and Echelon Square independently.

After breakfast, we check out from the hotel for an 08:30 AM departure. Our journey takes us into the heart of Colombo. First, we visit the historic Viharamahadevi Park, featuring a Buddha statue, water fountains, a mini zoo, and a children’s play area. Next, we explore the neoclassical marvel of Colombo Town Hall, built in 1927, which serves as the headquarters for the Colombo Municipal Council, showcasing the city’s rich history. Our journey continues to the iconic Red Mosque in Pettah, known for its candy-striped exterior and diverse architectural styles. After these cultural encounters, we check in at our Negombo Hotel, where lunch awaits. The afternoon is left open for self-guided tours or leisure, allowing guests to explore at their own pace. The day concludes with a heartfelt farewell dinner, marking our final evening in Negombo before an overnight stay at the hotel.

As your memorable tour comes to an end, we’ve customized departure logistics to align with your flight schedule. After checking out from the hotel post-breakfast, you have the freedom to explore vibrant Negombo City. Known for its shopping delights, garments, gold jewelry, and fresh seafood markets, Negombo offers a taste of its unique essence. Following this, we’ll seamlessly transfer you to the airport, marking the culmination of your enriching journey. Our flexible itinerary ensures a smooth transition based on your departure arrangements, allowing you to savor the final moments of your permaculture pilgrimage before bidding adieu to this captivating emerald island.

Tour Hotels

Negombo

Anuradhapura

Habarana

Giritale

Camelot Beach Hotel

4 Star

The Heritage Hotel

4 Star

Habarana Village by Cinnamon – 4 Star

Giritale Hotel

4 Star

1 Night

2 Nights

3 Nights

1 Night

Superior King Room

Deluxe Double

Superior Room

Superior Double Room

    

Mahiyanganaya

Kandy

Nuwara Eliya

Ella

Elephyard Retreat

4 Star

Cinnamon Citadel

4 Star

The Hill Club

5 Star

Morning Dew Boutique Hotel – 4 Star

1 Night

3 Nights

1 Night

2 Nights

King Room

Superior Room

Superior Double

Deluxe Superior Twin Room

    

Yala

Galle

Colombo

Negombo

Cinnamon Wild

5 Star

Bilin Tree House

Boutique Villa

The Stuart by Citrus

4 Star

Camelot Beach Hotel

4 Star

1 Night

2 Nights

1 Night

1 Night

Jungle Chalet

Suite Lotus

Premium Room

Superior King Room

Note: If the specified hotel is unavailable, an alternative of a similar class will be provided

Tour Vehicle

Toyota Coaster 29-Seater

To make a reservation for a tour, follow these steps:

  1. Online Booking Form

Please visit our website <https://www.splashholidays.lk> , fill the form with mandatory details, add special requests or comments if any and submit. We will get back to you within one working day. 

  1. Phone Reservations

Call us on +94 718 656 521 by phone or WhatsApp. 

We are available from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM Sri Lanka Standard Time 

( GMT 04:30 AM to 12:30 PM)

  1. Text Message

If you are unable to reach us for some reason, please leave a text message Phone/WhatsApp and we will get in touch with you

Certainly, we will try our best to provide the additional services that you request. Please note that providing some services may incur additional costs and some services will be subject to availability.

If you have specific check-in or check-out timing preferences, communicate them during the reservation. We will do our best t to accommodate your request based on availability. Some properties may add a surcharge based on the duration of occupation of the room.

In most cases, YES, please do contact us, we will do our best to make the requested amendments.

If you’re traveling with children, and you need to inquire about extra beds or cots, please do mention it in your booking form. Some properties offer these amenities upon request subject to availability. Some properties may also charge additional surcharge for extra beds.

We certainly will be monitoring your flight arrival time; in such an unfortunate situation we will have to amend your tour and the days’ activities.  Ironically at such short notice we are unable to reschedule the entire tour, mainly because the hotel reservations which are finalized cannot be cancelled at such short notices , nor will the hotels accommodate refund requests.  If you are covered by travel insurance, you may be able to get compensated.

Our Terms & Conditions are published on our website. You may access the document by visiting the URL – < https://www.splashholidays.lk/terms-conditions>.

From $4200

Please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to answer all your questions.