Highland Adventure
Overview
Escape to Sri Lanka’s misty highlands, where rolling tea estates, hidden waterfalls and rugged trails meet adventure, social energy and Instagram-worthy landscapes. Each day offers thrilling hikes, scenic viewpoints, natural pool swims and optional off-trail exploration, balanced with evening downtime at lively hostels, cozy eco-lodges or chill bars in town. From sunrise treks to sunset picnics and nocturnal wildlife walks, every moment is designed to inspire, challenge and connect young travelers. This is a highland playground for those who crave both nature and social adventure.
Tour Highlights
Colombo
Hikkaduwa coral reefs
Galle biking
Lagoon kayaking
Kitulgala rafting, Rainforest canyoning
Hill country views
Coastal scenery
Adventure activities
Local culture
Thrilling landscapes
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ITINERARY
Day 01 : Arrival / Colombo / Transfer to Kandy / Evening chill at lakefront cafés
Arrive at Colombo International Airport and transfer to Kandy, the cultural and scenic heart of the highlands. Take an evening stroll around Kandy Lake, stopping at lakeside cafés or street food spots. The night is a relaxed introduction, ideal for meeting fellow travelers and soaking in the misty town atmosphere.
Day 02 : Kandy / Temple of the Tooth visit / Evening cultural performance
Visit the Temple of the Tooth to witness sacred rituals and learn about its historical significance. Explore local streets, markets and tea shops in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance and drumming performance, a perfect mix of culture and spectacle. The night sets a vibrant tone for highland exploration.
Day 03 : Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage / Scenic train to Nuwara Eliya / Gregory Lake pedal boating
Start the day at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, observing young elephants and feeding them under supervision. Take the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya, passing mist-covered valleys, tea estates and waterfalls. Arrive in town and enjoy pedal boating at Gregory Lake, surrounded by colonial charm and mountains. Evening free time allows for lakeside drinks, socializing and sunset photography.
Day 04 : Horton Plains sunrise trek / World’s End viewpoint / Off-trail exploration for teens
Rise early for a trek through Horton Plains National Park, walking misty trails to the iconic World’s End cliff. Teens and adventurous travelers can take optional off-trail paths guided safely for extra exploration. Spot endemic birds and small mammals along the way. Return for a late breakfast and unwind at the hostel or local café.
Day 05 : Nuwara Eliya / Hakgala Gardens / Tea plantation walk and tasting
Visit Hakgala Gardens, wandering among colorful flowers, manicured lawns and butterflies. Continue to nearby tea plantations to walk through lush estates, learn about tea production and enjoy tasting sessions. The afternoon can be spent capturing scenic photos or relaxing at cozy cafés. Evenings offer chill social spaces or fireside conversations with fellow travelers.
Day 06 : Nuwara Eliya / Ella / Nine Arches Bridge / Little Adam’s Peak sunrise hike
Travel to Ella via winding highland roads with sweeping valley views. Hike Little Adam’s Peak at sunrise for panoramic highland vistas. Visit Nine Arches Bridge for epic photos of trains crossing the iconic viaduct. Evening free time in Ella allows for sunset views, casual drinks or mingling at local cafés.
Day 07 : Diyaluma Falls / Natural pool swim / Optional canyon trek
Journey to Diyaluma Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfalls. Swim in natural rock pools and enjoy cliffside views. Adventurous travelers can opt for a guided canyon trek, scaling rocks and exploring hidden streams. Evening relaxation back in Ella or Haputale includes socializing around fire pits or low-key bars.
Day 08 : Haputale / Lipton’s Seat guided trek / Organic farm visit / High-altitude picnic
Trek to Lipton’s Seat, a panoramic viewpoint over rolling tea estates made famous by Sir Thomas Lipton. Visit a local organic farm for a hands-on experience and enjoy a high-altitude picnic with scenic views. The day blends strenuous activity with immersive cultural and culinary experiences. Sunset in Haputale is perfect for photos and socializing with fellow travelers.
Day 09 : Udawalawe Safari / Eco-lodge overnight / Night wildlife walk
Travel to Udawalawe for a safari, spotting elephants, deer and exotic birds in their natural habitat. Stay overnight at an eco-lodge, enjoying the rustic atmosphere and communal social spaces. Join a guided night wildlife walk to experience nocturnal animals and the sounds of the wilderness. The day balances adventure, nature and evening community energy.
Day 10 : Udawalawe / Tangalle / Departure via Colombo
Transfer to Colombo for departure, reflecting on highland hikes, waterfall swims and wildlife encounters. Capture last photos along scenic routes and enjoy a final scenic drive through the highlands. Travelers leave with memories of adrenaline, breathtaking landscapes and shared social adventures.