Sri Lanka

A 12-day Cultural Immersion & Hiking Adventure for Women

February 20 - March 3, 2026

$3850 per person (shared room)
$4950 per person (private room)

WAIT LIST ONLY

Our 12-day women’s adventure in Sri Lanka begins in the coastal town of Negombo, where the rhythm of fishing life and rich cultural heritage welcomes us. We’ll go on an unforgettable elephant safari and hike Pidurangala Rock at dawn for a stunning sunrise over the Sigiriya Fortress. Trek four stages of the Pekoe Trail through lush tea country, where we’ll spend time with a local non-profit empowering the women who harvest Ceylon tea—hearing their stories and witnessing their strength. Enjoy a private tea experience, a Sri Lankan cooking class, and a scenic hill-country train ride, before closing with two restorative wellness beach days to rest before heading home.

Adventure. Connection. Renewal.

Itinerary Highlights

Begin in the charming seaside town of Negombo, experiencing Sri Lanka’s laid-back coastal life and cultural heritage
Embark on an unforgettable elephant safari, witnessing these majestic animals in their natural habitat
Hike Pidurangala Rock before dawn for a breathtaking sunrise view of the iconic Sigiriya Fortress
Trek four scenic stages of the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s signature long-distance hiking route through tea country
Spend time with a local non-profit empowering women tea pickers, learning from their stories and daily lives
Enjoy a private tea experience, from tea bush to tea cup, in the birthplace of Ceylon tea
Participate in a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class
Take an epic train ride through the lush, misty hill country
End with two rejuvenating wellness beach days to rest, reflect, and recharge before heading home

What's included:

Airport transfers to and from the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
11-nights in boutique hotels throughout entire stay
Daily breakfast, lunch + dinner (a few lunches are not included)
All activities described in the itinerary, including an elephant safari, park fees, walking tours, professional hiking guide, Pekoe Trail Pass, private tea experience, Sri Lankan cooking class, and scenic train ride
A $100 credit toward spa treatments of your choice
All ground transportation in a private vehicle
A donation to our do-good partner
A welcome gift

What's not
included:

International flight to and from Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
Sri Lanka ETA ($50)
A few lunches, additional snacks, alcohol
Travel insurance (optional, but recommended)
Shopping

To visit Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourism.
This can be easily done online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website, and we will assist travelers with this at the appropriate time.
The cost is $50 and not included in the tour price. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.

Who is this trip for?

This trip is designed for women who crave adventure,
meaningful connection, and purpose-driven travel.
You'll experience breathtaking landscapes, rich history,
and vibrant culture—while also meeting local changemakers
and engaging with programs that empower communities.

Daily Schedule

Arrive in Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB) anytime on February 20, 2026. Our adventure will begin with an airport transfer, then we'll get you settled into your accommodations in Negombo with a welcome dinner to follow.

Day 1: February 20, 2026

Explore Negombo and Ease into Sri Lanka

Just a short drive from Bandaranaike International Airport, the seaside town of Negombo offers the perfect place to rest and recover from your international flight. This charming fishing village is an ideal first introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and relaxed coastal lifestyle.

City Highlights:

Stroll through the lively Negombo Fish Market, where local fishermen bring in the day’s catch
Visit the historic Dutch Canal, a former trade route now lined with lush mangroves and colorful boat

Day 2: February 21, 2026

Drive to Sigiriya (Approx. 4 hours)

Settle in for a scenic drive to Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland, Sigiriya, where ancient history and natural beauty meet.

Afternoon Elephant Safari:

Embark on an unforgettable safari in a nearby national park, home to one of Asia’s largest wild elephant populations
Travel by 4x4 jeep with an expert guide leading the way to witness majestic elephant herds in their natural habitat
Spot diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, vibrant bird species, and other native animals

Day 3: February 22, 2026

Sunrise Hike – Pidurangala Rock

Start your day with an early morning hike up Pidurangala Rock, arriving at the summit just in time for sunrise. From this vantage point, take in a breathtaking view of the iconic Sigiriya Fortress bathed in morning light. Waiting together for the sun to rise atop this massive rock is a peaceful, almost spiritual experience, with 360-degree views of the surrounding jungle that are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Drive to Kandy (Approx. 3 hours)

Spice Garden & Lunch Stop

Visit a local spice garden to learn about native herbs and enjoy a fresh, spice-infused lunch

Evening: Guided Food Walking Tour in Kandy

We'll sample traditional Sri Lankan street food as we explore the city's local flavors with a guide

Day 4: February 23, 2026

Hike the Pekoe Trail – Stage 1 (Hanthana to Galaha)

We'll begin our journey on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s premier long-distance hiking route that winds through tea country, rich forests, and local villages. We’ll hike four of its 22 stages during our trip, starting today with Stage 1, from the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hanthana Estate to Galaha.

This scenic hike covers 12.8 km with moderate elevation change, taking about 3–4 hours to complete.

Start at the historic Ceylon Tea Museum
Hike through tea estates, forests, and village paths
Optional detour to Katusu Konda (Lizard’s Spine) for adventurous views
Stop for tea and snacks at Pushpaka’s home, a woman-owned local business
Learn how community-led tourism supports women and rural development

Afternoon Option: Visit the Temple of the Tooth (Kandy)

Explore Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist site
Learn about the cultural and religious significance of this UNESCO World Heritage landmark

Day 5: February 24, 2026

Hike the Pekoe Trail – Stage 2 (Galaha to Loolkandura)

Today’s trail picks up in Galaha and leads us through diverse and breathtaking landscapes, ending at the historic Loolkandura Estate—the birthplace of Ceylon tea. This stage offers a deeper look into Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and tea heritage.

The 14.7 km route includes 853 m of elevation gain and is considered challenging, but we’ll hike at a comfortable pace. Estimated time: 5 hours.

Begin in Galaha and pass through the village of Deltota for a quick refresh
Walk through a peaceful pine forest before entering untouched primary forest
Enjoy sweeping views and unique ecosystems as elevation increases
Arrive at Loolkandura Estate, where James Taylor began Sri Lanka’s tea legacy
Stand among historic tea fields and connect with the roots of Ceylon tea

Afternoon: Drive to Norwood (Approx. 4 hours)

Rest and enjoy scenic views as we travel deeper into tea country

Day 6: February 25, 2026

Community Experience + Private Tea Experience

Today is all about connection and learning, as we spend time with local communities and gain a deeper appreciation for the people behind Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea.

Morning: Community Visit

Visit Tea Leaf Trust empowering tea estate communities to hear stories from youth and women working to build brighter futures
Gain insight into the challenges and hopes of tea-picking families

Afternoon: Private Tea Experience (Approx. 3 hours)

Go from tea bush to tea cup with hands-on learning in a working tea estate and discover how tea is grown, picked, processed and brewed
Taste freshly made Ceylon tea while hearing the stories behind every sip

Day 7: February 26, 2026

Hike the Pekoe Trail – Stage 7 (Kotagala to Norwood)

Today’s journey takes us deeper into Sri Lanka’s tea country, beginning in Kotagala and ending in Norwood. This stage highlights the vibrant life and culture of tea estate communities.

The hike is 16.28 km with moderate difficulty, featuring 438 m of elevation gain and 568 m of elevation loss.

Walk through tea estates dotted with colorful line rooms (tea worker housing)
Spot local shrines, Hindu Kovils and Catholic churches, reflecting the area's rich spiritual blend
Cross a leopard corridor before descending to panoramic views of Castlereigh Reservoir

Evening: Sri Lankan Cooking Class

Learn to prepare classic Sri Lankan dishes using local spices and techniques passed down through generations
Enjoy a shared meal to celebrate the day’s adventure

Day 8: February 27, 2026

Hike the Pekoe Trail – Stage 8 (Norwood to Bogawantalawa)

Today’s hike takes us through the breathtaking Golden Valley of Tea, where endless shades of green stretch across the hillsides. Starting from Norwood, we’ll climb to a ridge separating two of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful valleys: Bogawantalawa and Maskeliya, home to the sacred Adam’s Peak.

This is a moderately difficult hike of 15.8 km, with 562 m of elevation gain and 377 m of elevation loss. Estimated time: 6 hours.

Climb to a scenic ridge between two iconic valleys and then hike through vibrant tea fields and into remote wilderness
We'll end the day at the historic Kew Tea Estate in Bogawantalawa

Day 9: February 28, 2026

Scenic Train Ride to Ella + Transfer to the Coast

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without experiencing its iconic train journey through the hill country. Today, we’ll enjoy a picturesque ride from Norwood to Ella, soaking in views of misty mountains, tea plantations, and charming villages.

Ride one of the world’s most scenic train routes
Pass through lush tea estates, waterfalls, and mountain tunnels
Snap photos from the open doors and windows of the classic blue train

Afternoon: Drive to Mirissa (South Coast)

Meet our transport in Ella and begin the scenic drive south
Arrive in the laid-back beach town of Mirissa for some well-deserved rest

Day 10-11: March 1-2, 2026

Coastal Wellness Days

With hearts full of stories and minds full of memories, we’ll spend our final two nights unwinding in the coastal beauty of Mirissa, at the southern tip of Sri Lanka—savoring fresh seafood, the Indian Ocean breeze, and restorative time at the renowned Secret Root Spa.

With a $100USD credit to spend toward your selected spa treatments, mix and match what's best for you.

Day 12: March 3, 2026

Departure Day

Airport transfers back to Columbo will be arranged according to your departure time.

Safe journey home!

Itinerary is subject to change, based on weather and availability.

A soul-stirring journey through Sri Lanka, where dawn breaks over ancient rocks,
tea fields whisper women's stories, and the rhythm of ocean waves offers rest to hearts full of wonder.

Meet your Tour Leaders

Michelle Pinkowski

Colorado native Michelle Pinkowski is a passionate hiker and outdoor adventurer who spent five transformative years in Sri Lanka, where she played a key role in launching the Pekoe Trail management organization. After completing the full 300km trail over several months, she and her hiking partner, Ayesh Buddhika, made a record-breaking 10-day trek to spotlight the route—now celebrated by Time magazine as one of the “World’s Greatest Places.” Aside from the trail’s founder, Michelle is one of only two people known to have completed it more than once. She’s eager to share the magic and beauty of this remarkable island.

Dianne Sivulka

Dianne is the founder of Travel on Purpose, where she curates meaningful journeys designed to connect travelers with culture, community, and deeper purpose. Rooted in her personal relationship with Jesus, Dianne believes in the transformative power of travel—not just to see the world, but to witness beauty, hear stories of hope, and engage with the good work God is doing around the globe. Through thoughtfully crafted experiences, she creates space for conversations around identity, purpose, and mutual flourishing, inviting travelers to be part of something greater than themselves.

Melissa Killian

In 2022–2023, Melissa spent a transformative year in Sri Lanka, working and hiking under the leadership of Michelle Pinkowski while deepening her understanding of women’s leadership as part of her doctoral studies. In 2022, she earned a Doctorate in Transformational Leadership, with research focused on empowering women in rural Sub-Saharan Africa. Melissa and her husband, Rick, met as Peace Corps Volunteers in the Central African Republic and later lived in Greece for eight years. In 2001, they co-founded Killian Creative, helping authors craft impactful books—two of which reached #1 and #4 on the New York Times bestseller list. Melissa will lend her skills to deepen our engagement with social impact businesses on our Sri Lanka trip.

Answers to your questions

Have a question you don't see here? Email dianne@travelonpurpose.com today!

What fitness level is required to participate?

Travelers need to have a moderate fitness level to participate. The trail involves both flat areas as well as inclines. Over the course of our 12-day adventure in Sri Lanka, we will spend four days walking different stages of the Pekoe Trail. Travelers should expect for these four hikes to take approximately 3-6 hours each. We will provide a recommended training schedule leading up to the trip, but anyone who exercises regularly should be fine.

What is the food like in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan cuisine is bold, colorful, and deeply rooted in local tradition. Expect fragrant rice and curry, coconut-infused dishes, and vibrant spices. Street food favorites like kottu roti and egg hoppers offer a taste of everyday life, while fresh seafood—especially crab curry and grilled fish—reflects the island’s coastal bounty. Vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy, including jackfruit curry, lentils, and spicy sambols. Sweet treats like wattalappam and buffalo curd with palm treacle are local favorites. Don’t miss sipping world-famous Ceylon tea or the refreshing juice of a king coconut—perfect after a flavorful, spice-filled meal. We will do our best to accommodate food allergies and preferences.

What are the accommodations like?

During our journey through Sri Lanka, we’ll stay in carefully selected boutique hotels that blend comfort, charm, and local character. In Negombo, Villa Hundira offers serene lagoon views, artistic touches, and warm hospitality. Cinnamon properties—known for their stylish design and excellent service—provide a touch of luxury in prime locations. In the hill country, Royal Majesty offers cozy elegance amidst tea plantations and misty landscapes. On the southern coast, Lak Raj features oceanfront rooms, Ayurvedic spa treatments, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Each stay is thoughtfully chosen to enhance our experience with beauty, comfort, and a sense of place.

What is the weather like in February and March?

February and March are among the best months to visit Sri Lanka, with warm, sunny days and low rainfall across most regions. Coastal and southern areas enjoy ideal beach weather, while the hill country remains cooler and comfortable. Expect tropical warmth, clear skies, and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.

Payment Schedule & other details

Tour Cost

$3850 per person for a shared room
$4950 per person for a private room

Payment Schedule

A Non-refundable deposit of $700 will hold your spot.
50% of your balance is due on August 15, 2025
The remaining balance is due on November 15, 2025

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an optional expense, but many people find that a policy of protection brings peace of mind. Travel insurance can include trip cancellation and medical emergencies while abroad. Check your credit card company, as travel insurance may be included. If you would like Travel on Purpose to send you a proposal through Allianz, simply indicate this on your registration form.

Terms & Conditions

It's important that you familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of Travel on Purpose. By signing up for this trip, you are acknowledging that you have read and agree to them.

Cancellations
& Refunds

Deposit: Your deposit is non-refundable.
120 Days or more before departure: 50% of the amount you've paid (minus the deposit) can be applied toward a future trip.
90 Days or more before departure: 25% of the amount you've paid (minus the deposit) can be applied toward a future trip.
60 Days or more before departure: No refund or credit of any kind.