Country Facts - Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka programs available for:
Did you know?
Although cricket is the most popular sport in Sri Lanka, the national sport of the country is actually volleyball
Things to do
- Visit Minneriya National Park, renowned for its huge population of elephants
- Sip the best tea the world has to offer at one of the many plantations across the island
- Taste a smorgasbord of Sri Lankan curries, spices and sweet treats
Located in
South Asia
Average Temperature
22 - 27° C
Official language/s
Sinhalese, Tamil
Currency
Sri Lankan rupee
Sri Lanka’s beaches, jungles and soaring green hills are some of the most spectacular places on earth. Travellers who flock to this tear-drop shaped island nation can look forward to many beaming smiles from the friendly local people and the warmest of welcomes.
With its dreamy mix of ancient temples, hill-top monasteries, stunning waterfalls, sandy beaches, surf breaks and world famous tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers a tapestry of travel experiences that will leave even the most seasoned of travelling wanting to see, and do, more.
“The experience has been extremely worthwhile! I gained the knowledge of a different culture, independence, teamwork, co-operation, friendships, and a taste for travelling...I had the best trip ever!”
Sally, Student (Sri Lanka Expedition)
The World You'll Explore
Start your adventure by soaking up the sights of the incredible harbour city of Colombo, an important trade port since the ancient times of the silk road. Admire its modern, towering skyscraper buildings that stand alongside colonial architecture remnant from Portuguese, Dutch and British settlement. Other magical cities to explore include Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the mountains which was once the capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. From Kandy, you can take one of the most scenic train journeys in the world to the heart of the tea country, where you can wander through tea plantations and pick up some exotic tea for friends and family back home.
In Sri Lanka you may also opt to visit a sustainable elephant sanctuary, the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Here, orphaned elephants are cared for and rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. You'll help bathe and feed the elphants, as well as tend to any injuries - an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
The Impact You'll Make
Our community service projects in Sri Lanka often involve light renovation work in local rural schools. Immerse yourself in a new culture and learn about the wonderful and peaceful way of life enjoyed by the Sri Lankan people. Project sites are usually based in the central hills of the island, around two hours from Kandy. This area is surrounded by lush green National Parks and areas of outstanding beauty.
The people who will have your back
For every Expedition trip to Sri Lanka, you and your team will be assigned one of our expert Aussie-based leaders to help guide your adventure. Each with enough Frequent Flyer points to fund a family trip around the world, they’re seasoned pros when it comes to adventure travel. The leaders below may not be the same ones you get on your trip — but you get the idea.
Meet Georgie. Before joining us she was a nutritionist, personal trainer and outdoor ed instructor. With eight Antipodeans trips to her name, she’s now one of our Operations Managers, too. Catch her snowboarding in Japan or at a local gig.
Ready to start your adventure?
Ready to start your adventure? Get in touch. Want more inspiration? Explore below.
Borneo
Borneo is your quintessential tropical island. A lush paradise with the ecological diversity of an entire continent–and then some.
Cambodia
Step into a time gone by in Cambodia–the mystical country with a rich culture that promises to captivate you.
Costa Rica
An Expedition to Costa Rica will have you smiling from ear to ear as soon as you land.
Ecuador & Galapagos
The birthplace of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and a country whose name describes exactly where on the planet it is, Ecuador is simply one-of-a-kind.
India
A country leaving travellers with more questions than answers. A buzzing combination of vibrant colours, exotic foods and spectacular scenery.
Nepal
Home to most of world’s highest mountains, Nepal is a kaleidoscope of colour and dazzling views, truly a trekker’s dream come true.
Peru
The emerald land. Never-ending adventure and exploration with locals who love encouraging you to do so.
Swaziland
It may be Africa’s smallest nation, but what beautiful Swaziland lacks in square kilometres, it makes up for with serious adventure, trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Tanzania
A journey to Tanzania is one that is filled with larger than life landscapes and vibrant colour.
Thailand
Get away from the typical tourist trails and explore the mosaic of beautiful remote villages, fascinating ethnic cultures and picturesque vistas.
Vanuatu
Quieter and more untouched than most tourist hotspots in the South Pacific, this tiny nation made up of 83 individual islands is an opportunity to escape to a nature-filled paradise.
Vietnam
Colourful, chaotic and full of life, Vietnam is a series of sensory overloads set against backdrops of epic beauty.