Sri Lanka
SRI LANKA with OTW
DISCOVER hidden gems only locals know about AND make unique, unforgettable memories
UNDERSTAND Sri Lanka’s culture, history and politics through meaningful interactions
DO GOOD through our marine conservation partner The Pearl Protectors
Embark on an epic 12 or 16-day adventure through Sri Lanka with a small team of driven and inspiring peers:
- Volunteer with one of Sri Lanka’s most established marine conservation organisations (you’ll be awarded a certificate and letter to document your time)
- Marvel at ancient, breathtaking sites like Sigiriya, Pidurangala, Ritigala, Dambulla and Polonnaruwa
- Spot majestic elephants in the wild and other incredible animals native to Sri Lanka
- Head away from the typical tourist trail and get to know Jaffna’s rich history and culture
- Learn to cook local cuisine and play Sri Lanka’s most popular sport with a local club
- Enjoy one of the world’s most scenic train rides to Ella and tour lush tea farms
- Learn to surf or practice yoga on the beaches of Weligama or Arugam Bay (depending on the season)
Read on for the 16 day itinerary (click here for the 12 day itinerary)
Day 1, Negombo:
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Your adventure kicks off in the charming town of Negombo, conveniently situated near the international airport. Feel free to arrive at your leisure, as there are no scheduled activities until the welcome meeting at 5:30 pm. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the coastal vibes of Sri Lanka by observing local fishing activities and indulging in some fresh seafood delights. For those eager to explore the picturesque countryside, renting a bicycle is highly recommended. Dinner is the only meal provided today.
Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse (Mango Guest House or similar)
Day 2, Negombo
Volunteer with our partner organisation The Pearl Protectors, a leading marine conservation organisation in Sri Lanka, in the daytime and have free time in the evening to relax and unwind.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Volunteering
Note: Our contributions will be directed towards the areas of greatest need and impact. To ensure an effective and tailored volunteer experience, we will provide the organisation with each participant’s educational background and relevant experiences prior to our departure. This will allow them to assign the most appropriate and meaningful projects to our team. Examples of projects include research, strategy, analysis, sea turtle conservation, marine clean-ups (underwater or on shore), educational awareness & outreach. If our project is based in Colombo/Negombo we will volunteer at the beginning of the trip, however, if based elsewhere we will adjust the dates of our itinerary accordingly.
Day 3, Negombo
Volunteer with our partner organisation The Pearl Protectors in the daytime and have free time in the evening to relax and unwind.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Volunteering
Day 4, Jaffna:
Travel to Jaffna, the vibrant heart of Tamil culture in Sri Lanka, by road (approx. 8 hours). Catch the sunset at Jaffna fort.
Why Jaffna? Its remote location makes it more of an ‘off the beaten path’ destination for travellers and its Tamil culture is distinct from the rest of the island. With the end of the civil war in 2009, its a unique place to better understand Sri Lanka’s rich history, cultural tapestry, and religious diversity.
Accommodation: Senthil Complex or similar
Included activities: Jaffna fort
Day 5, Jaffna:
Wake up early to visit the Thirunelveli local market, chat to vendors and understand local life. If you’re here in August we’ll be attending the annual Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil festival in the morning instead. Experience one of the largest festivals for Hindu devotees, drawing in huge crowds from around the world every year. In other months we’ll head to Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Hindu temple in the afternoon. Take part in a game of cricket at sundown with a local club or school.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Thirunelveli Local Market, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple, cricket with local club
Day 6, Dambulla:
Travel to Dambulla today, a UNESCO world heritage site. After checking into our accommodation, we will head out to the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka, and a sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries.
Accommodation: Sevonrich Holiday Resort or similar
Included activities: Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
Day 7, Dambulla:
Climb Sigiriya Rock in the morning (optional activity) and return to the hotel for lunch.
In the afternoon, climb Pidurangala for stunning sunset views over Sigiriya Rock and the lush green vegetation of the surrounding landscape. Be prepared to scramble through boulders as you approach the peak!
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Activities: Sigiriya Rock (optional), Pidurangala hike (included)
Day 8, Habarana:
Check into a guesthouse in Habarana in the morning. After dropping your bags, channel your inner Lara Croft and experience the magic of ‘discovering’ an ancient Buddhist monastery hidden away in the jungle, Ritigala. Revel in being the only explorers there as this is more off-the-beaten-path than nearby sites like Sigiriya and Pidurangala. In the afternoon, you can either help out in the kitchen and learn to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes, or take part in an optional safari to Hurulu Eco Park. If you want to see elephants in the wild you have a high likelihood of seeing them here (although if you’re lucky you might spot them on the roads around Habarana too, or even in the garden of the guesthouse at night / in the early morning!)
Accommodation: Wild Hut Habarana or similar
Activities: Ritigala monastery, cooking class, elephant safari (optional)
Day 9, Habarana:
Travel to the Polonnaruwa archeological site today, UNESCO world heritage listed.
Eight centuries ago, Polonnaruwa served as the bustling heart of Sri Lanka’s central plains, ruled by kings who left an indelible mark on its landscape. Today, the remnants of that illustrious era remain, offering glimpses into the city’s former grandeur. Delve into the archaeological wonders of the park, where a myriad of ancient structures await your exploration. From tombs to temples, statues to stupas, the compact core of the archaeological park is a captivating testament to Polonnaruwa’s rich history.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park
Day 10, Kandy:
Travel by road to Kandy in the morning. Check into the hotel and grab some food in the city centre before heading up to a secret destination hidden away in the hills above Kandy, home to an eccentric creative and now an eclectic and truly unique boutique hotel. Explore the corridors and rooms completely decked in antiques and art (and dust and cobwebs!) and learn about the incredible history of the local area and the owner’s family. There will be some very familiar names.
Accommodation: Smile Hub Kandy or similar
Included activities: A beer or soft drink at our secret destination, sunset at Arthur’s Seat
Day 11, Kandy:
Head 10 minutes up into the mountains for breakfast at Onchillah Cafe, with scenic views over Kandy. Be one of the first groups of travellers to go to an untouched set of waterfalls set amongst the hills. Don’t forget your swimsuit! This secret location will only get more popular over the next few years as other well-known hill country destinations in Sri Lanka become more crowded.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Secret waterfall hike
Day 12, Ella:
Experience one of the most scenic train rides in the world from Kandy to Ella. On arrival in Ella we will leave our bags at the guesthouse and then head out for a tea factory tour, where you will also have the chance to pick your own tea leaves.
Accommodation: Dream Ville, Tunnel Gap Homestay or similar
Included activities: Tea factory tour and tea leaf picking
Day 13, Ella:
Walk along the railway tracks to get to the famous Nine Arch Bridge, as part of the Demodara loop (an engineering marvel). Instagram moments galore.
Accommodation: Same as previous day
Included activities: Nine Arch Bridge and Demodara Loop
Day 14, Arugam Bay or Weligama (depending on the season):
Travel by road to Arugam Bay (April – October) or Weligama (October – March), depending on the season. Relax in the afternoon.
Accommodation: HangTen Hostel, Wake Up Weligama or similar
Optional activities: Surfing or yoga lesson
Day 15, Arugam Bay or Weligama (depending on the season):
Surf or practise yoga during the day, or just lie back and enjoy a well-deserved rest. In the evening head to the bus station to take a night bus to Colombo.
For anyone who wishes to continue on without the group, this is where we say goodbye. We’re happy to recommend some other spots to hit on your travels.
Accommodation: Night bus
Optional activities: Surfing or yoga lesson
Day 16, Colombo:
Arrive in Colombo for the final day of our 16-day adventure. There’s plenty to do and see in Colombo, so what the group does today is up to you. Head to Galle Face Green for your final sunset in Sri Lanka.
Accommodation: C 1 Colombo Fort or similar
Included activities: Each participant will be given spending money for lunch and activities of their choice
Day 17, Colombo:
Departure day. Feel free to leave whenever you like for your onward travel plans, or head to the airport to go home. No activities or meals planned today.
Please be aware that this itinerary is subject to potential changes due to factors such as weather conditions and road maintenance. Rest assured, any alterations to the route will be communicated to you well in advance of the trip.
What’s included in the programme price
While you won’t have to worry about finding accommodation during the trip, please note that you will be backpacking and this won’t be a luxury experience in 5 star resorts. This will allow you to get more immersed in local culture, with more budget dedicated to enriching experiences and activities.
We will provide:
Food (3 meals a day, usually local cuisine)
Shared accommodation, individual beds (guesthouses, hostels, homestays, mid-range hotels). As a rule of thumb, we select accommodation rated 8.5 or above on platforms like Booking.com (or equivalent). In cases where such options are unavailable online, such as certain family-run guesthouses, we find alternatives of comparable quality. For a supplementary fee we can arrange private rooms if preferred
All domestic transport (trains, taxis, buses, private shuttles etc.)
All group activities unless specified as an add-on (e.g. cooking class)
All group tickets to attractions, museums, national parks unless specified as an add-on
Tips to local guides
24/7 support from your OTW guide
Access to an exclusive network of high-achieving individuals
Personal development opportunities and mentorship
Certificate and letter from The Pearl Protectors to document your time spent volunteering
Trips may seem comparably priced, so you might think going with the more established operator is the obvious choice, right? WRONG! Here’s why choosing us over others is the real deal:
Age-Appropriate Groups and Activities: Say goodbye to mixed-age groups (unlike the two largest and longest-running providers in the market, where the age range spans 18-60+ and the average group age falls in the mid-30s to 40s). More active, less passive
Curated Teams with Diverse Skillsets: Learn and explore with an inspiring team
Personalised Attention in Small Groups: Get the attention you deserve. Our small group sizes foster camaraderie
Leadership Opportunities, Get Paid to Travel: Become a Team Lead on your next trip and get paid to travel and lead
Skill Development: Work on improving communication, adaptability, teamwork, intellectual curiosity, responsibility and more
Volunteering Opportunities: Make a positive impact on the communities you visit and be awarded for your time with an official letter and certificate from our partner organisation
A Longer Experience: Travel slowly and responsibly, unlike some of the whistle-stop tours of other providers
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded, ambitious individuals
Mentors as Team Leaders: Benefit from guidance beyond the trip from team leaders who’ve balanced their love for travel with a strong professional and academic track record
Fees for activities and admission, INCLUDED: Anything that’s part of the group itinerary is covered in the trip price. Other providers usually get you to pay extra. Some additional activities are offered as add-ons
Dates
(1) December 27th – January 7th 2025 (8 PLACES REMAINING)
DEADLINE: DECEMBER 1st 2024
(2) April 6th – April 17th 2025 (8 PLACES REMAINING)
DEADLINE: MARCH 1st 2025
(3) August 12th – August 23rd 2025 (8 PLACES REMAINING)
DEADLINE: JUNE 1st 2025
Price
12 day itinerary – click to see route
£990 + £100 volunteering donation to The Pearl Protectors. Please read note below*
* 12 days instead of the standard 16 days. Itinerary will differ slightly to the 16 day itinerary to account for this (12 day itinerary). Additional £100 volunteering donation to be paid to The Pearl Protectors, our partner organisation in Sri Lanka
Can’t make these exact dates? Get in touch and we’ll see what we can do
Limited subsidies available for certain roles. Please see application page for more details.
We are more than just a travel company; we curate unique travel experiences that seamlessly blend adventure with discovery. Our selective application process ensures creates an exclusive and enriching journey for all participants.
You can choose from one of the following two application types:
- Just want to travel with a cool group of people, take it easy and enjoy the experience?
- Step 1 – Submit Your Application: Begin by completing the application form via the link below
- Step 2 – Receive confirmation
- Keen for some responsibility? Apply for a Student Representative, Deputy Lead or Media Representative position
- Step 1 – Submit Your Application: Begin by completing the application form via the link below
- Step 2 – Video Interview with the Founder: If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a brief interview with our founder
- Step 3 – Receive Confirmation: Successful applicants will receive a confirmation of their place
What benefits do you get?
- As OTW representatives, you will receive £50* for each participant you refer who is accepted onto the programme. There is no limit to this bonus (up to the maximum number of places available)
- The responsibility of the role adds depth and experience to your resume, and gives you concrete real-life examples to use in interviews
- Sales and marketing experience
- No need to reapply – you can stay a representative until you turn 30
Who are we looking for?
OTW Representatives should demonstrate some or all of the following qualities:
- Sociable, friendly, well-connected
- Go-getter energy
Trips cannot run unless at least 4 places are filled. The OTW Representative role will be to market these positions to their extended networks in order for the trips to go ahead. So bonus items for your application (not essential) include:
- Shows potential to be good at sales during interview or written responses
- Knowledge of or experience with socials, both organic and paid (Tiktok, Instagram etc.)
- Creative skills e.g. videography, photography, graphic design
- Proficiency in additional languages (as well as English)
- Signing up to an OTW trip yourself
How do I apply?
Click the ‘Apply Now’ button below to go to the Sri Lanka application page, follow the instructions for the OTW Representative role. If you want to be a OTW Representative but don’t have time to go to Sri Lanka this summer, please use the same link.
Can I apply for other roles?
Yes, you can select to be considered for all available roles through the application form
What does the role involve?
The Deputy Lead plays a crucial role in supporting the Team Lead to ensure the smooth operation and success of our Global Travel Programmes. This position requires a highly organised and adaptable individual with strong leadership and interpersonal skills. The Deputy Lead will assist in planning, coordinating, and managing all aspects of the trip, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for all participants. Key responsibilities include:
- Travel coordination (e.g. assist the Team Lead in planning and coordinating travel between different destinations)
- Organising activities (e.g. attractions, classes and events)
- Emergency assistance (e.g. provide support in any emergency situations and maintain an emergency contact list)
- Timekeeping and group management (e.g. assist in managing the group’s activities and movements, keeping everyone informed and organised)
- Participant wellbeing and situational awareness (e.g. keep an eye on both internal group dynamics and external factors, escalating any potential issues to the Team Lead promptly.
- Mentorship (provide guidance and support to participants, helping them navigate challenges and make the most of their experience, foster a sense of community and teamwork within the group)
- Administrative duties (assist as required e.g. expense tracking)
What benefits do you get?
- Programme cost partially subsidised by OTW (£200 subsidy towards the 16-day programme cost, £100 subsidy towards the 12-day programme)
- Progression to Team Lead after assessment
- Resume enhancement
- Strong examples to use in competency-based interviews for graduate jobs
Who are we looking for?
Deputy Leads should have the same qualities as Student Representatives, as well as the following:
- EITHER: 1 or more OTW trips under their belt
- OR: No OTW trips taken yet but an experienced solo traveller
- OR: No OTW trips taken yet but demonstrates strong leadership and/or organisational capabilities
Deputy Leads will always be paired with a Team Lead
How do I apply?
Click the ‘Apply Now’ button below to go to the Sri Lanka application page and follow the instructions.
Can I apply for other roles?
Yes, you may choose to be considered for all available roles through the application form. However, please note that you cannot simultaneously serve as both a Deputy Lead and a Media Representative. If you apply for both positions, OTW will determine which role, if any, will be offered to you.
DEADLINE: 30 AUGUST 2024
Subsidised trip available for media and content creators (e.g. photographers, videographers, micro-influencers, student press).
How do I apply?
Apply here (this will take you to a different application form)
Can I apply for other roles?
Yes, you may choose to be considered for all available roles through the application form. However, please note that you cannot simultaneously serve as both a Deputy Lead and a Media Representative. If you apply for both positions, OTW will determine which role, if any, will be offered to you
Applications closing soon – sign up today
