Artistic Umbria
A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
With sandy, palm-fringed beaches, jewelled cultural treasures, high mountains and chance encounters with all manner of wildlife, Sri Lanka oozes culture, history and some excellent walking.
Sri Lanka
Worldwide Journeys
Culture
Landscape
Wildlife & Nature
Jan
Feb
Sep
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
This is a Grade 3 leisurely holiday which mixes active sightseeing with short countryside walks. Some of the walks in the central highlands are more challenging, notably World's End and Mini Adams Peak. Please see the Itinerary section for more information on these walks.
Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.
Overview
You fly to Colombo and stroll through its colonial streets. Next, head down to Galle for a guided tour and lunch. At Rajarata you have the chance to see Sri Lankan gem mines. This is lo-tech mining in the extreme. There is a mine 5 minutes' walk from our hotel, owned by the hotel. The manager will be delighted to show you around.
The highlands are where the best walking can be found: Lipton’s Seat, Little Adams Peak and the Horton Plains. Horton Plains are more reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands than tropical Sri Lanka. Of course this is tea country so you stop for a brew and see how it’s all processed. High grown tea is lighter on the palate and favoured by west Europeans, low grown tea is darker and stronger in flavour. It suits the Russian palate better.
In Kandy you are immersed in culture; the Temple of the Tooth is one of Buddhism’s most important shrines. From Habarana, highlights include Sigiriya, the Lion Rock, a spectacular rock fortress. You'll walk through a typical rural Sri Lankan landscape stopping at a farm to get an insight into rural lives. You'll also spend an afternoon exploring Minneriya National Park, looking for herds of elephant on open grassy plains. Our final night is spent by the beach relaxing at Negombo just north of Colombo.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
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Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
We plan to use the following accommodation or similar.
In a British Colonial building that was formerly the headquarters of a well-known bank, the Steuart by Citrus is located on a cobblestone street 15 minutes on foot from Galle Face Green park along the Indian Ocean. The relaxed rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea & coffee making facilities. There's a low-key, Scottish-themed restaurant/pub that features live music on the weekends.
We plan to use the following accommodation or similar.
The Ratnaloka Tour Inn, the only star class hotel close to the city of gems, Ratnapura. It is located in the tranquil village of Kosgala 8 kms away from Ratnapura. The simply furnished rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars. There is an outdoor swimming pool by the river in the hotel garden.
Bandarawela Hotel is a colonial style mountain resort. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar and a 24-hour front desk. Rooms come with air conditioning, a TV, radio and hairdryer. Guests can enjoy recreation facilities such as tennis, badminton, billiards and a fitness room. A variety of eastern and western dishes are served at the hotel main restaurant, which offers views of the surrounding tea plantations. A bar and lounge offers drinks and live music.
Araliya Green Hills Hotel is a beautiful property surrounded by lush greenery on the edge of Nuwara Eliya. The accommodation welcomes guests with a spa. Free internet access is available throughout the hotel. Rooms are tastefully furnished and fitted with carpeted floors. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV, minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, bathtub and free bath amenities. Araliya Spa offers pampering spa treatments or a soothing traditional massage.
Located on the riverbank outside Kandy, the Cinnamon Citadel Kandy offers a spectacular situation perhaps best enjoyed from the outdoor pool. Well appointed air-conditioned rooms feature spacious interiors with fine bedding and furnishing. Each room is equipped with minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and TV with cable channels. The Panorama Restaurant boasts an international menu, and continental dishes can be found at the Cafe C. The Lounge is an excellent venue to enjoy refreshing beverages and light snacks. Guests can enjoy a leisurely swim at the outdoor pool. Free Wi-Fi is provided on site.
Located amidst green forests, the Cinnamon Lodge Habarana offers air-conditioned rooms with a private balcony. The hotel boasts a large outdoor pool, a butterfly garden and 3 dining options. Rooms at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana feature a comfortable seating area, cable TV, minibar, safe and tea/coffee maker. Guests can unwind at Azmaara Spa, work a sweat on the tennis court, or enjoy a game of billiards. Restaurant Ehala offers an enormous buffet with international and themed dishes. Beverages can be enjoyed at Cafe Veranda or bar Tuskers. Look out for troops of monkeys crossing the grounds and the clouds of fruit bats flying over at dawn and dusk.
We plan to use the following accommodation or similar.
Set near the shores of Nuwara Wewa lake, the Rajarata Hotel is a short distance the temples of Anuradhapura and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi sacred fig tree. Rooms feature balconies or patios, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea & coffee making facilities. Amenities include a casual restaurant, cocktail bar and tea lounge. There's also an outdoor pool, along with sun loungers.
We plan to use the following accommodation or similar.
Set along Negombo Beach, the Goldi Sands Hotel is surrounded by palm trees The casual, bright rooms offer flat-screen TV, safe, minifridges, as well as tea & coffee making facilities. There's a casual bar and a restaurant with a terrace. Other amenities include direct beach access, outdoor pool and spa.
Trip Information
This is a Grade 3 leisurely holiday which mixes active sightseeing with short countryside walks. Some of the walks in the central highlands are more challenging, notably World's End and Mini Adams Peak. Please see the Itinerary section for more information on these walks.
The holiday consists of a good mix of travelling, easy walking and sightseeing – it promises to be a great experience. Many of the walks will be fairly short – usually between one and four hours on undulating ground, and taken as a part of a varied daily programme. Much of the sightseeing in towns and at archaeological sites will also be on foot and on uneven surfaces.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Currency in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan Rupee.
Please note the Rupee is not available to purchase outside Sri Lanka. Most major banks will allow Visa and Mastercard cash withdrawals. There will be an opportunity to change money at the airport. There are ATMs in major towns and cities but not all of them accept international cards.
Sterling cash can be exchanged but make sure any notes you bring are in pristine condition. Scottish or Northern Irish bank notes are not exchangeable in Sri Lanka.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Local Guides
To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each holiday will be accompanied by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.
We fly from London to Colombo.
Travel in Sri Lanka is by road and rail. Please note that the road system in Sri Lanka is not maintained to the same standard found in Europe, and occasionally detours or delays may occur due to blockages or road works. Even travelling short distances is likely to take considerably longer than you might expect.
If you are joining or leaving the holiday abroad we assume, unless you advise us otherwise, that you will meet the party at the first hotel and leave at the last hotel – please contact us before departure to confirm the hotel details! However, should you wish to join the holiday at Colombo airport or wish to make other alternative arrangements, please be sure to let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport, depending on your flight arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that your flight must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a Flight-Inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
Passport Information for Sri Lanka
Passports are required and should be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your intended stay. Visas are required for trips to Sri Lanka. All tourists travelling to Sri Lanka must now obtain an ETA before travelling. They cost US$ 50 per person, fees are subject to change without notice. To apply please visit www.eta.gov.lk
First you will be asked to select your language. Select English.
This brings you to a page that explains about the ETA system. To apply for the ETA click the ‘Apply’ button in the middle of the page. This brings up a page requesting you to agree to the conditions of the Sri Lankan government. You must click 'Agree'.
This brings you to a page asking you to select which type of visa you require. On the top left of the screen select Tourist ETA for an individual. You must make a separate application for each individual travelling.
You will be asked for passport details, address in Sri Lanka and your home address. For the address in Sri Lanka use the first hotel listed on the accommodation list overleaf on this Holiday Information Sheet.
Your flight number will be on your flight tickets received 10 days before departure. use the flight number of the flight that lands in Colombo. If you would like to apply for your visa further in advance please contact us for flight details. You should then submit your application printing a copy for your reference. You should keep a printed copy of your application for future reference.
The Sri Lankan Department of Immigration have introduced an online embarkation form which will replace the paper embarkation card. Foreign nationals can complete the online form three days prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. The service is free of charge. Please see the following website for details:
https://eservices.immigration.gov.lk/emb/eEmbarkation/'#/home-page
Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday charge and will be taken at the hotels. Some breakfasts may be packed for early starts. Lunches, which are not included in the holiday apart from two days, will be at hotels, restaurants or hotel-prepared picnics. Bottled water is widely available. There will be a supply on the coach.
Meals are usually buffet style with choice of Western or Sri Lankan food and vegetarian options. Sri Lankan food can be hot & spicy. However, there will always be plenty of options which are not spiced. Make sure you walk around a buffet in Sri Lanka with the local guide who can explain to you some of the unfamiliar names of the food on offer. There will always be plenty of choice to suit every diet and lifestyle choice.
Local Lion Beer is reasonably inexpensive, wine is expensive although no more than one would pay in the UK. Perhaps avoid the cheaper local wine as it is not of the highest quality! Most rooms have tea and coffee making facilities and a bottle of water is often provided.
The hotel(s) listed within this document are examples of standard only. Whilst we strive to deliver the hotel(s) listed within this Holiday Information Sheet, there will be times throughout the year when they change. You will be sent an accommodation list with air tickets about three weeks before departure. From time to time hotels will change near to departure and you will not be advised until after arriving into the destination. We always aim to provide a replacement of similar standard and location, although we cannot guarantee similar facilities such as pool or bar.
Footwear
Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Sri Lanka
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Sri Lanka. You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid immunisation is recommended. You might also like to consider immunisations against Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis and Hepatitis B. There is a low to no risk of Malaria in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever exists in Sri Lanka; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
Reviews
Useful Information
Capital
Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 111mm
February
Avg. Rain: 71mm
March
Avg. Rain: 88mm
April
Avg. Rain: 155mm
May
Avg. Rain: 180mm
June
Avg. Rain: 125mm
July
Avg. Rain: 101mm
August
Avg. Rain: 97mm
September
Avg. Rain: 133mm
October
Avg. Rain: 265mm
November
Avg. Rain: 288mm
December
Avg. Rain: 212mm
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