Example Itinerary
Kinchigune to Kaltota: Camping and Trekking in Sri Lanka
This unforgettable three-day tour in the wilds of Sri Lanka will leave you invigorated and spellbound. Starting from the nearly-submerged village of Kinchigune, you’ll explore the impressive Samanalawewa Reservoir and its rural surroundings before leaving civilization behind, save for the abandoned gem mines you’ll see further on in your mountain adventure. Follow the river Walawe along its valley bed, through mountainous and jungle terrain, surrounded by soaring peaks and wild animals living nearby. Camp by the river and at the base of the jaw-dropping Duvili Ella waterfall before you make your way back to human habitation, with Kaltota as your final destination.
This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.
Highlights
- Overnight Under a Waterfall: Hike to the grand Duvili Ella waterfall and camp at its base, falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle and nearby cascades.
- Swim in the Walawe River: After a challenging climb through paddy fields and mountain forest, reward weary muscles with a dip in the cooling waters of Walawe.
- Remote Villages: By exploring Sri Lanka's wild on foot, you'll reach isolated hamlets not often visited by tourists, which offer intrepid travelers a glimpse into an authentic way of life.
Day-by-Day
Day 1
MapColombo
Arrive in the capital city of Colombo and transfer privately your hotel. If you wish to step out in the evening, we recommend strolling the lovely Galle Face Green, an ocean-side urban park where local families spend leisure time, before enjoying Sri Lanka cuisine or fresh seafood at one of many acclaimed and popular restaurants such as Ministry of Crab, Agra, and 1864 Restaurant.
Hotel Options
Day 2
MapWalawe Valley
Early this morning, drive 4.5 hours to Kinchigune, a historic and self-sufficient village on the edge of the Samanalawewa Reservoir, where you'll explore the nearby paddy fields and surrounding rural villages. Discover indigenous vegetation growing around sacred temples, and walk through lush forest and dry savanna before hitting the mountain trail down to the Walawe river. After a refreshing dip in the cool waters, relax for the remainder of the day in the gorgeous valley where you will camp for the night.
Hotel Options

Day 3
MapDuvili Ella
Continue the journey today with a trek through the ravine, following the course of the river with soaring peaks either side, the terrain underfoot changing constantly. Meander your way around abandoned gemstone mines to reach Hulang Ella waterfall, a great place to stop for a picturesque picnic. Continue your walk to see the river divide into three tributaries and enjoy the cool shade of the forest you share with exotic inhabitants, including elephants, deer, hawks and lizards. Finally, reach Duvili Ella, an even grander waterfall that plunges for 80 feet. Down at its base is cool, flat ground, perfect for making camp after a long day's hike.
Hotel Options
Day 4
MapColombo
Your final day of exploration will see you make your way to the village of Kaltota. Follow the steep foothills that slope down to the river valley and stop for an invigorating swim along the way. Finally, say goodbye to the beautiful mountainous scenery as you drive 4.5 hours back to Colombo.
Hotel Options


Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
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