Off the Beat Tour

Arrive in Colombo and enjoy a late afternoon tour in an old Land Rover. Travel by morning train to Anuradhapura, then transfer to Jaffna for a tour of its historical and cultural sites. Visit Nagadeepa Island to explore its Buddhist and Hindu significance, and experience traditional drum-making in a local village. Proceed to Trincomalee/Nilaveli for local excursions and relaxation, followed by a tour of Dambana Veddah Village and Gal Oya National Park. Conclude with a visit to Ella Wala waterfall, and retreat to the South Coast before your departure.

Tour Duration

Tour Information

The tour begins with an afternoon exploration of Colombo in a classic Land Rover, followed by a scenic train journey to Anuradhapura to visit its ancient ruins. In Jaffna, discover the rich Tamil heritage through city tours, boat trips to sacred islands, and traditional drum-making experiences. The itinerary includes visits to Trincomalee’s historical sites, Mahiyanganaya’s Veddah village, and Gal Oya National Park, featuring boat safaris and nature walks.

Who is it for?

This trip caters to travelers interested in immersive experiences, including sacred site visits, traditional craftsmanship, and unique wildlife encounters. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the boat safaris and nature walks in Gal Oya National Park. this tour suits adventurers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Customise This Tour Package

Day 1 - Colombo

Arrive and transfer to Colombo. Late afternoon do a tour of Colombo in an old Land Rover

Take the morning train from Colombo to Anuradhapura. Visit Anuradhapura at night

Transfer to Jaffna in the morning with a late afternoon tour of the Jaffna Town. Jaffna is renowned for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and resilience. It offers unique Tamil heritage, a unique blend of ancient traditions, colonial architecture, history and its recovery of revitalization post-conflict

This morning, take a boat to Nagadeepa Island which holds an important place in Buddhist and Hindu histories. Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya is worshipped as one of Sri Lanka’s holiest Buddhist sites where Lord Buddha was said to have once called upon two Naga kings in disagreement. The Nagapooshani Amman Kovil, which is mentioned on several ancient chronicles is also located on the same Island of Nainativu.

This afternoon we will visit a village renowned for its traditional drum-making heritage, gifted by the Kandyan kings. This village has upheld the legacy of crafting Kandyan drums for generations, each beat resonating with the spirit of their forefathers. Visitors can witness this intricate process and engage with the craftsmen, gaining unique insights into the cultural significance of these instruments. This village stands as a living museum, celebrating the enduring legacy of Kandyan drums in Jaffna.

Leave Jaffna and proceed to Trincomalee / Nilaveli. Rest of the evening is at leisure

Local excursions to Fort Frederick, Thirukoneswaram Kovil, Snorkelling in Pigeon Islands or Simply relax at the hotel

Leave after breakfast and transfer to Mahiyanganaya. Do the Dambana Veddah Village Tour in the evening

Do the Waterfall Trail Tour with a village lunch

This morning do the Sorabora Lake Boat Tour with breakfast. Transfer to Gal Oya Lodge

Do a boat safari in the morning. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats and with a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge.

Gal Oya National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s undiscovered natural treasures. The jeep ride through Nilgala, once the protectorate of ancient royalty for the abundant medicinal plants and endemic birdlife unique to this ecosystem. Although shy and sometimes hard to spot, the park hosts most of the animals found on the island. Some of the more likely species to look out for include herds of elephants, four species of
deer as well as many bird species.

Leave for Kaduruketha. The evenig is at lisure. Do a night walk with the resident naturalist to spot a variety of animals such as owls, frogs and a plethora of insects in their nocturnal habits

This morning, visit a small yet enchanting Ella Wala waterfall which is one of the most popular attractions in Wellawaya. This secluded waterfall lies hidden inside the jungle about 5 kilometers from the town and can be accessed by bicycles

Transfer to the South Coast and retreat in to your hotel or villa which is on the beach or inland.

At leisure

Departure transfer to the airport in time to connect with the flight for departure