Sri Lanka Experience
Spend a whole month exploring Sri Lanka, and getting the best out of the country with a group. Staying in two different areas, Kandy and Ambalangoda Beach with different adventure week options. You can always join the intro week and after that choose locally which other programme you would like to do. This is nice because you may decide as a group what would be more fun, so why not wait and have a chat with your fellow travellers and see what takes your fancy!
Highlights
- Visit Kandy, the second largest city in Sri Lanka after Colombo
- Traditional Kandyan dance show
- Stay with a Sri Lankan family as part of Turtle week
- Turtle week! Turtle conservations on one of Sri Lanka ´s best beaches
- Ambalangoda Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s best beaches, also home to exotic mask carving and devil dancing!
- Sharing the experience in a group with Xtreme Gappers
Adventure Week Options
There is something for everyone on this trip, you can pick an adventure week most suited to your interests.
- Elephants – Cleaning, feeding, washing them and learning their language!
- Trekking – Visit beautiful gardens, stunning mountains and ancient palaces.
- Mind & Body – Yoga, meditation and detox
Photos
Itinerary
Welcome to this magical land of myths, legends, breathtaking scenery and some amazing activities that you’ve never experienced before. This is Sri Lanka.
Our itinerary gives you a few weeks to explore many aspects of this fantastic country and you can even tailor the trip to suit your interests. There is a saying that goes ‘It’s not my cup of tea’, but with Sri Lanka you will definitely find something that is, whether that be the spiritualism, the nature, the architecture or the even the delicious tea from the abundant plantations.
First week introduction
The first week consists of a comprehensive induction, city tours, language lessons and a history of Sri Lanka. It’s an ideal time to get to know the group that you’re travelling with and in addition to the planned activities you’ll have plenty of free time, including the weekend.
Monday
Your adventure begins with an explanation to the coming weeks, a tour around the city of Kandy and an introduction to some of the traditional culture.
The Sacred City of Kandy, one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka, sits between the dramatic mountain ranges of Knuckles and Hanthana, and was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka. The city itself has been developed around a large picturesque square and pretty lake. This UNESCO World Heritage site and has a combination of stunning architecture and interesting history, particularly at places such as the Palace of the Tooth Relic, The Royal Palace and the Lankatilaka and Gadaladeniya Temples.
If this far-eastern paradise looks city looks familiar in some way then it might be because much of the 1984 film, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom was filmed here. However, you get to see and experience far more than the Hollywood take.
On your first evening you are treated to a show of traditional Kandyan dance. There are many different types of dances, each one with its own traditional meaning and purpose. Some dances are named after the musical instrument that accompanies it and others are named after the animal of which the dance interprets. The whole experience of the music, dance, elaborate costumes and history is fascinating.
Tuesday
Today is all about Sri Lankan culture and religion. To ensure that you get the most of out of your adventure in Sri Lanka (and to avoid offending any locals!) there will be some guidance on the culture, customs and etiquette. A predominantly Buddhist country, the religion has a big influence on day-to-day life and conduct in certain places and situations.
Some of the dos and don´ts are similar to those in British culture and you no doubt heard the following phrases from your parents when you were a snotty-nosed kid – keep your elbows off the table at mealtimes! Respect your elders! If you remember common courtesy and politeness you can´t go far wrong, but you´ll also learn some important points about visiting places of worship.
You have a free evening to explore the city a bit more, so you can revisit a place you enjoyed from the tour, enjoy the tranquility of the parks or have a mooch around the old streets and soak up the atmosphere. You might be surprised (or not) to find out that numerous fast food joints have found their way into the city, but if we see anyone in there you´ll be in trouble \” you have to enjoy the tastebud-tickling local cuisine!
Wednesday
If you haven´t already invested in a phrase book then you´ll find the morning language lesson invaluable. By now you´ll be wishing you could greet the residents and order a meal in the local language, so your teacher will get you started with the basics. In the afternoon there will be a session on Sri Lankan religion and mythology, which is absolutely mesmerizing \” demons, devils, gods and even aliens feature, so there is something to appeal to everyone!
You have another free evening, so why not get together with your fellow adventurers and sample some more of the delectable local cuisine, with its strong influence of coconut, lime and spices such as cardamom and cumin. A must-try is also Maldive Fish, which is a local speciality. You definitely want to taste a few different dishes this week as on Sunday you´ll be having a go at making some.
Thursday
More language practice today, as well as additional information on religion and an introduction to Buddhism. In the afternoon there is a session on culture shock and information for women travellers, including some specific instructions on etiquette.
For example, women should never, under any circumstances, touch a monk. So, if you find yourself stumbling on a step and the nearest person is a man in an orange robe, do not instinctively grab him!
There is a special treat in the evening that will give you a chance to practice those language skills, as we visit a local host family and have dinner with them. Your culture and etiquette lessons will come in handy here as you enjoy the experience of being welcomed into a family home to share a meal.
Friday
Another language lesson takes place in the morning so if you learned any new words from the host family the night before, now is the time to show off! After that there is a visit to the impressive Temple of the Tooth.
In the afternoon it´s time to visit one of the beautiful Hindu temples, giving you a taste of Sri Lanka´s other religion.
Saturday and Sunday
In addition to some more language lessons (no rest for the wicked!) you´ll also have some cookery lessons over the weekend, so hopefully you´ve tried out lots of local dishes as you´re not going to be making a Big Mac.
You´ll also have some free time to enjoy more sightseeing, shopping or eating, and to prepare yourself for the start of ´Adventure Week´.
Then choose your adventure:
During adventure week you have the opportunity to choose from a number of activities, which are all very different and suit those who like to be active or those looking for more tranquil days. From ‘Elephant Week’ to ‘Body and Mind Week’ you can be at one with nature one way or another ;0)
Elephants
This is one of the most popular choices for adventure week and is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The location for this activity is close to the town of Kegalla, halfway between the present capital and the ancient royal residence of Kandy, at the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.
You will be transferred from your residence in Kandy on the Monday morning and take the two hour drive to the town where you will settle into your accommodation, either a homestay or a guest house, depending on the group size, before heading off to the orphanage to find out what you´ll be doing for the week.
You will work there from the Monday to Friday, between 8am and 5pm, which might not sound like much of a holiday, but as you might have gathered, Xtreme Gap provides adventures! There is a typical daily schedule for looking after the elephants and once you have got over your initial awe and excitement at being so close to these magnificent beasts your duties will include the following
- Cleaning the enclosures (yep, dung-tastic)
- Washing and feeding the elephants (they may decide to give you a wash too!)
- Learning elephant commands (you definitely haven´t covered that in your language lessons)
- Assisting with landscape work and gardening
- Learning about elephants, their environment and conservation by observing them interacting (amazing to watch!) and talking with the mahouts
At the end of the week you´ll not only have made lots of new friends (of the human and elephant kind), but have made a really big contribution to this important project. You´ll also get a certificate to prove it!
On the Saturday morning you will return to your base in Kandy to relax for the weekend, rest those tired muscles and catch up with the rest of the group to find out what they´ve been doing in their adventure week.
Trekking
The trekking week is the perfect choice if you love the great outdoors, breathtaking scenery and a good amount of physical activity.
Monday
The day will start early with a short introduction into the weeks activities. We will then have a quick breakfast and proceed to Sigiriya Rock, also known as Lion Mountain. This 180 metre, steep granite rock is an archaeological, historical and geographical wonder, with the ruins of an ancient stone and rock fortress and palace, extensive network of gardens and lakes and rock paintings or frescoes, that are thought to date back to the 4th and 5th century.
After exploring this area we´ll have lunch and then move onto the Minneriya National Park for a safari, where you´ll get to see a plethora of wildlife, including numerous species of birds, reptiles, fish and mammals, namely elephants, deer and if you´re lucky, a leopard.
We´ll spend the night at a local guest house in Sigiriya, where you can chat with the rest of your group about what you´ve seen and compare photos.
Tuesday
We spend the morning exploring the beautiful gardens around the ancient palace ruins, followed by a short trek to the Rose Stone Garden. It´s the perfect opportunity to take some more photos of this stunning and historical area. In the afternoon we return to Kandy for a hearty dinner, much-earned rest and to prepare for the next day´s trek.
Wednesday
It´s an early start today for the trek to misty mountain of Hantana. Passing enchanting tea plantations on the way up to the forested summit, you´ll be rewarded at the top with spectacular views of the city of Kandy as well as Algalla Mountain and the Knuckles Mountain Range. Along the way you´ll also see a diversity of flora and fauna, mostly indigenous to the area. You´ll have the whole day here to soak up the beauty and serenity, before returning to Kandy in the evening.
Thursday
Bible Rock, or the Batalegala Mountain, is today´s destination. This impressive flat topped rock is a challenging trek (this is Xtreme Gap!), but is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery, both en route and when you reach the summit. There are rocky and forested areas, providing great contrasts for photos, which you´ll have plenty of time for as we spend the whole day here.
In the evening we return back to Kandy to rest our legs.
Friday
After breakfast, we will visit the Royal Botanical gardens. It´s a much more gentile walk today around the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of the best in Asia. There are thousands of tropical plants and trees in the park, set amongst a network of avenues, a winding river and pretty lake. Some of the specialist areas include the spice garden, orchid house, fernery and medicinal garden. You need to see it to really appreciate the beauty and amazing range of flora.
The evening is free to enjoy with your travelling companions and as all the hard trekking is now finished you can really let your hair down!
Weekends
We will have an evaluation and some group discussions. The rest of the weekend will be free.
Body and Mind
This is all about learning how to have a healthy mind and body, through a combination of meditation, yoga and detox treatments. This might be right up your street or you could be thinking ‘I’m not into all of that!’, but before you dismiss it have a read through what the week entails as you might just find that it’s exactly what you’re looking for. After all, ‘Xtreme’ doesn’t just mean adrenalin-fuelled adventures, it’s about doing something that you’ve never done before.
The daily schedule is as follows:
- You’ll rise with the sun and take a guided meditation session, followed by a yoga lesson.
- In the afternoon there are sessions on Ayurveda (derived from the Sanskrit words meaning ‘Life’ and ‘Knowledge’) and an Ayurveda detox treatment.
- In the evening there is another guided meditation session, including instruction on breathing techniques.
Don’t worry if you are a complete beginner when it comes to these practices as there are different stages. In brief you can expect to learn the following techniques.
Beginners:
This starts with the Surya Namaskar, also known as the Sun Salutation, which you may have heard of. It contains 12 consecutive Asanas, or postures, and promotes the fitness and flexibility required to move onto the second stage.
Second Stage:
If you master the Surya Namaskar then you will be taught several more Asanas – up to as many as 15, depending on how you get on.
Advanced Stage:
For those who become adept at the previous stages will be taught more advanced Asanas. However, if you don’t get to this stage don’t be disheartened – it’s important for everyone to work at their own pace and its certainly not a competition!
Pranayama:
This is the study and practice of breathing techniques that can be taught once reaching the advanced stage. If you’ve ever been involved in sport or activities such as singing, you’ll know that there is more to breathing than the automatic ‘in-and-out’ reflex. When studied properly you can learn techniques that cool or heat the body, help concentration and assist with cleaning the body of toxic air. It really is quite amazing.
When you’re not having lessons you can enjoy long walks amongst the gardens and soak up the peaceful atmosphere, which promotes feelings of tranquility, and enjoy the Ayurvedic detox treatments. These include massages with herbal oils, body scrubs and a Dhara treatment, all of which help to remove toxins from the body, improve circulation, clear your mind and put you in a relaxed mood.
To ensure that you get the most from the mind and body week the meals served are vegetarian and you are asked to refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol.
After the week we’re sure that you will feel like never before and quite a few of those who have chosen this activity for their adventure week have carried on with the techniques at home.
Turtle Conservation
If someone mentioned babies to you, you might well run a mile! But, what if was really cute little baby turtles? We can see you going all doe-eyed from here ;0)
During this part of the trip you’ll stay with a local Sri Lankan family, who will welcome you with open arms, provide your meals and really make you feel like you’re part of this wonderful country.
Your tasks throughout the week will include:
- Collecting and hatching eggs
- Identifying different kinds of turtles
- Caring for turtles – feeding, cleaning tanks
- Dependent on the season you may release turtles back into the ocean!
The working week is from Monday to Friday and does involve long days (from 6am to 5pm, with breaks and lunch), but it is such a rewarding experience.
Ambalangoda Beach Week
After all the hard work of the previous few weeks, this is just what you need. The chance to relax on the soft sand beaches, with swaying palms for shade and a coconut toddy or Lion Beer for refreshments.
You’ll be based about 90kms from Colombo for beach week, at a stunning untouched location. In addition to chilling out in the sun you’ll have the chance to visit local places of interest, including a mask factory, temples, Galle City and go on a river safari. In addition it’s a great chance to meet up with everyone whom you started out on the adventure with – you’ll all have different experiences to share and that’s one of the things that makes the ‘Xtreme Gap’ adventures so good as you meet so many likeminded people as well as taking part in activities you’ve never had chance to do before.
It really is the perfect end to a month in this stunning country.
Accommodation
Accommodation is of a basic but comfortable standard. You share accommodation with the rest of the group. The accommodation is with in a very short distance or at the different projects. Transport is generally public transport but guided. You are not left to fend for yourself!
Accommodation in Kandy
- Accommodation type: Shared house
- Shared room : Four or six people in a room
- Food: Sri Lanka vegetarian meals only. Three meals a day are provided on weekdays but during weekends brunch and dinner only
Accommodation Ambalangoda
- Accommodation type: Home stay
- Shared room : Four people
- Food: Sri Lanka vegetarian meals only. Three meals a day are provided on weekdays but during weekends brunch and dinner only
A coordinator will be available 24 hours a day to help you and answer questions. At the weekends you are free to do whatever you would like to.
Frequently Asked Questions
You will be taken to a couple of different locations during the trip,
Kandy and then Kosgoada, 40kms south of the Sri Lankan capital Colombo
Price
| Duration | Shared Dorm |
| 4 weeks | £1099 |
Included
- Pre departure information
- Airport pick-up
- All accommodation
- All meals through the week, at weekends you are free to eat out, it is very cheap!!!
- All activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- Transfers between projects on public transport
- 24/7 guidance available
Excluded
- Flights
- Visas
- Spending money
- Travel insurance
- Drinks and spending money
- Transfer back from the programme to the airport (very cheap and we do help you)
Dates
The start date is the first Sunday of the month. Sunday arrival before 5.00 PM. Airport pick up included.