2-weeks Sri Lanka off the Beaten Path Itinerary - Jaffna, Knuckles Range and Gal Oya National Park

Today you’ll arrive in Negombo, a modest beach town on the palm-fringed west coast, not far from Colombo. During your time in Negombo, you’ll stay in an elegant villa with a swimming pool and gardens. The rest of the day is free for you to do as you please; why not relax by the pool with a good book or take a stroll along the beach. The following day, you can soak up the sights and sounds of the town with your driver. Explore the fascinating colonial history, wander through the vibrant bazaar and watch the fishermen bring in their morning catch at the market.

Known for its peaceful beaches and wildlife-rich lagoon, Kalpitiya is a nature lover’s paradise. During your time here you’ll head out onto the lagoon by boat, taking in the the lush greenery, surrounding mangroves and colourful birdlife. You’ll be sleeping next to an idyllic beach on Sri Lanka’s western coast, and on day 2 you’ll wake early to head out dolphin-spotting around Dutch Bay.

Only opened up to tourists in recent years, the northern city of Jaffna is a melting pot of cultures, religions and cuisines. Take a walk along the battered ramparts of Jaffna Fort and sneak a peek into a Hindu temple. Let the hubbub of Jaffna market envelop you then visit a local home to see palmyrah being made. With a distinctive culture all of its own, Jaffna is sure to leave you enchanted.

From crumbling ruins to majestic elephants, this trip will take you on a discovery of Sri Lanka’s fascinating Cultural Triangle. Your journey will begin by climbing Sigiriya’s mighty rock fortress, before you arrive at Sri Lanka’s ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa, where you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time as you wander, and cycle around the ancient stone city. This ancient capital is also famous for its delightful restaurants, farmers’ markets and numerous food stalls, and you’ll have plenty of time to taste all the local delicacies. You’ll spend 2 nights at a lakeside hotel, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the area.

Gal Oya is a real treat for the wildlife lovers who want to venture off the beaten path. Set on the shores of the largest lake in Sri Lanka, this undiscovered paradise teeming with wildlife will give you a proper feel of the untouched jungle. Your home for the next couple of days is charming eco-lodge with a pool to cool down at – check out the views from your very own terrace! During your stay, you will embark on a boat safari across the lake to spot wild elephants swimming between the islands or bathing by the shores – a truly magical experience.

It’s time to discover the soul of Sri Lanka’s hill country – the gorgeous Knuckles Range. Your home for the next few days is a beautiful lodge perched on the edge of the hill, with emerald-green tea plantations stretching as far as you can see. During your stay here, you will visit the local community and enjoy a warm traditional welcome from the host family who will invite you into their home and tell you about their life over a cup of freshly brewed tea.