Community & Culture in Sri Lanka

The seaside town of Negombo is a perfect place to find your feet. We’ll start by soaking up Negombo’s cultural charms. Wander past its colonial forts, canals and churches, and see daily life on display at the fish markets and temples. Down on the beach, feel the sand between your toes and watch the fishermen heading out to sea in their boats. As we explore, say ‘ayubowan’ (hello) to the locals – learn a few simple phrases in Sinhalese to connect with the people you meet. Feeling hungry? Taste delicious Sri Lankan dishes like fish curry, lentil dhal and egg hoppers, they’re like a pancake with an egg in the middle. Winner. Dive deeper into Sri Lankan life with a visit to a fishing village. You’ll see the fisherman haul their huge nets from the ocean and experience the local markets. In the afternoon, we’ll pile into the transfer vehicle and travel north to the town of Dambulla in the Cultural Triangle.

Welcome to the Cultural Triangle, an area of central Sri Lanka that’s loaded with Sinhalese ruins. There’s loads to explore from our base in Dambulla. Nothing quite prepares you for Sigiriya Rock (around 25mins away). A mighty mound that towers over the jungle, it’s a dramatic sight. Climb the steep staircase to the top and pass a huge pair of lion paws carved into the rock. It’s more than 1,000 steps to the summit but the panoramic views and palace ruins are worth every one. From Sigiriya, it’s an hour’s transfer to Minneriya National Park, where herds of up to 200 elephants roam free. We’ll head out on safari and watch them drinking by the reservoir alongside buffalo, sambar deer and crocodiles. The birdlife is awesome, think pelicans, herons and painted storks. Back in Dambulla, we’ll discover the town’s famous caves, a king once took refuge here and converted them into ornate temples. Step inside to marvel at their painted ceilings and 2,000-year-old murals. Next, we’ll travel to our new base – the cultural city of Kandy.

Spend the next few days nestled between hills and the Mahaweli River. Live alongside a village community and contribute to a sustainable project that aims to improve the quality of local education. The village school is in need of better infrastructure. Learn some skills from the experts as they carry out renovations, then roll up your sleeves and help out where you can. Dive deeper into community life by preparing lunch and practising your Sinhala with the locals. Organise a football match with the community. This is a side of Sri Lanka that few tourists see. Rural life can be tough, and you’ll have none of the comforts you’re used to back home. Grab this opportunity to connect with the locals and learn about their lives.

Time to say your goodbyes and head back to Kandy. The Temple of the Tooth should be top of your list, it houses one of the most important Buddhist relics, a tooth of the Buddha. Join worshippers to glimpse the famous gold casket, then explore the other temples and Buddhist history museum. You could also spot parakeets in the Royal Forest Park, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, or delve into tea history at the Ceylon Tea Museum. For more of Sri Lankan culture, watch a Kandyan dance show, it includes fire breathing and walking on hot coals! Mark the end of your day with a big team meal. Chow down on Sri Lankan favourites, share memories and celebrate your journey.

Explore the historic town of Galle, with its impressive Dutch Fort. Famous for its food, Galle is a great place to sample delicious dhal, sambal and hoppers. For some beach time, you could head to Unawatuna. You have control on what to do here, so make a plan with the ground team. You could learn about the colonial heritage in the old town and at the Maritime Museum. Discover more about the Muslim faith at the Jumma Mosque, housed inside the old Portuguese Baroque Cathedral. Or how about an optional workshop, mask carving, jewellery making or handloom weaving, take your pick! On your last day pack up, and head back to where it all began, make the most of your last chance to explore more of Negombo.

All too soon, it’s time to travel home. Cram everything into your backpack and head to the airport. Check in, sit back and let it all sink in. You’ve just experienced something incredible. You’ve been immersed in Sri Lankan culture, you’ve engaged with communities and you’ve seen this beautiful country through local eyes. Return home with a whole new perspective of the people we share our planet with, and the stunning landscapes they call home.