Polonnaruwa Itineraries

Sri Lanka in Depth provided a good overview of the country with a variety of experiences from temples, to hikes, to elephant safaris, to a train ride, tea plantations and more. The pace was good with some busy days and some free time. The country is very green and tropical so the countryside was beautiful along the way. It was very hot on the April trip so plan for light clothing with a couple of layers for the cooler highlands. If you like rice and curry, you will love the food. I'm not a curry fan so had limited choices some days, but always tropical fruit. The bigger towns had more Western food. I personally didn't like the shopping opportunities - remember you are under no obligation to buy despite the hard sell. The guide went to great lengths to make sure we were all comfortable and he even got some medicine for me when I needed it. He made some small changes to the itinerary due to the heat. The hotels range from basic to lovely jungle lodges to a modern city hotel to a colonial style hotel. Only one didn't have air conditioning. Pack casual clothes, loose cotton tops and pants, shorts, a loose dress for women, a wide brim sunhat and a swimsuit. Toiletries at hotels were basic - most had a small soap and a little shampoo but bring your own as well. I felt very safe in Sri Lanka. The people were very friendly. When we had free time, the guide warned us of any concerns. Take normal precautions - wear a cross body bag, don't bring expensive jewelry and don't flash large amounts of cash. There were ATMs in most towns as you will need some rupees but credit cards were accepted at hotels and bigger restaurants.

What a trip! We have memories for a lifetime! Our guide Su was totally brilliant and while the pace of the trip was pretty full on we saw and experienced so much! Totally recommend!

George made our trip seamless and his knowledge of Sri Lanka and the specific regions we traveled to were top notch. I would highly recommend George as a mentor for other guides moving up the ranks absorbing his vast knowledge and calm demeanor.
Cheers Grant

Brilliant trip for families. I went with my 11 yr old son and we had an amazing time surfing, white water rafting, kayaking, cycling, safari-ing with one of the best tour guides I've encountered. The schedule is busy but the diversity of landscapes, wildlife and sights makes it worthwhile. The accommodation is a mixed bag but if you're up for a bit of an adventure in one of the most beautiful countries then I would definitely recommend this trip. Also wanted to mention that as a single parent, I loved being in a group with other families with children (ideal for children aged 10-17 I would say).

Seeing the elephants & releasing baby turtles. Also visiting tsunami memorial near Galle. Though not a highlight in the usual manner - will never forget the photos of the aftermath. There is one of a group of people seconds before the impending wave hits them. The photographer & the group must have all died. Also a mother discovering her dead child - a picture says a thousand words - would reduce anyone to tears. Friendly & laid back people - even the dogs. Scenery in the mountains.

A good trip overall seeing the main cultural sights along with some good safaris. Hotels were all pretty good.