Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many inspirational moments -The cave paintings of Dambulla and the fortress of Lion Rock are world class attractions. The midnight walk to Adam's Peak was unforgettable - tough and maybe not entirely enjoyable but an experience. Also the sheer beauty of the highlands  was memorable. The Horton Plains national park and the following train trip dropping from the highlands to the coast in two hours was spectacular - surely a contender for the best short train trip in the world.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sujan was an excellent tour leader. He worked tirelessly to ensure that we had the best opportunities to experience Sri Lanka. When there were unforseen difficulties due to weather, road closures etc. he always had a backup plan. Plus he had great sense of humour. He deserves credit for making the trip so enjoyable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Due to unseasonal heavy rain the terrain was a lot rougher than described in the trip notes. Consequently proper hiking boots (and probably a walking pole) are necessary. This also meant that the trip grading was tougher than described at the time. 

Suggestions

The main disappointment on the trip was seeing so little of Kandy. One night is not enough for the cultural centre of Sri Lanka. We had only 90 minutes free time to explore the city.  The last walk to Wedihiti Kanda summit was hot, dirty and uninspiring - the trip might be better if this walk was omitted in favour of spending more time in Kandy.

Most Inspirational Moment

Going to the Tooth Temple. It was the most peaceful religious site we have ever visited.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!! Always with a smile and a song.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There is little or no chance to do laundry. When we were there is rained 12 of 14 days so things got wet and stayed wet. Put newspaper in your shoes/boots to dry them.

Suggestions

I'm from the USA so, I hope I say this right. Some of the hotels are a bit dodgie. Take a sleeping bag liner.

Most Inspirational Moment

Equally, the ascent of Adams Peak and whale watching.  Eating in local houses.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent guide who made every effort to respond to the group's requests and interests and spent much time getting us to experience and understand local cultureOur drivers were excellent as well, friendly, helpful, patient and safe

Advice for Potential Travellers

Finish with a few days' beach holiday at Mirissa - Hotel Paradise Beach, brilliant place.Don't rely on clothes drying quickly or it being dry - you need plenty of light clothes and a decent umbrella

Suggestions

Slight shame that the new itinerary omits Ambuwela walk but I can understand why.  Also using minibuses was good since it gave us more flexibility

Most Inspirational Moment

One of the most inspirational moments for me was the Meemure trail walk. It was really jungly jungle, and resonant with the sounds of insects and birds. Another moment was walking through a village one afternoon, on the way to a river for a swim, to the very beautiful strains of a Buddhist sung sermon being broadcast across the village. 

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was great. Full of energy, very knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about his country and its peoples.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Expect to be hot and sweaty a lot of the time. Expect to eat curry and rice - its delicious in Sri Lanka.