Camping in Meemure

Travelers seeking a break from bustling cities and tourist hotspots often look for something truly different—an authentic slice of local life, surrounded by nature’s best. The 3-day camping tour in Meemure offers exactly that: a chance to step into a quieter world, where traditional village life blends seamlessly with adventure. This experience promises scenic hikes, waterfalls, natural pools, and nights under the stars—an ideal escape for those craving tranquility and genuine cultural insights.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the balance of comfort and adventure. You’ll stay in basic but functional camp accommodations, participate in engaging activities, and enjoy local cuisine. We love that it provides a rundown of rural Sri Lanka, yet the rough terrain and physical demands could be a challenge for some travelers. This experience is best suited for those with moderate fitness levels, an adventurous spirit, and a love for authentic, off-the-beaten-path journeys.

While the price of $570 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes nearly everything—transport, meals, guides, and accommodation—making it a fair value for a fully immersive experience. However, it’s important to consider the rugged nature of some activities and the physical exertion involved. If you’re looking for a laid-back, luxury camping experience, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you’re eager for a genuine, active immersion into rural Sri Lanka, this tour checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with local villagers and farming life.
• Adventure-packed itinerary with hikes, waterfall visits, and natural pools.
• Comfortable camping with campfire dinners and scenic mountain views.
• All-inclusive pricing covering transport, meals, and guided activities.
• Moderate physical fitness needed due to hikes and rough terrain.
• Not suitable for young children or travelers with serious medical conditions.

Starting the Journey: From Kandy to the Hidden Village

The adventure begins early, with pickup at 5:30 am from Queens Hotel in Kandy. The drive to Hunnasgiriya sets the tone—expect a scenic but bumpy ride as your comfortable air-conditioned vehicle takes you closer to nature’s doorstep. The group travels in a private setup, and the guide (whose name I wish I knew for a more personal touch) ensures everyone is briefed and comfortable.

One highlight of this initial leg is the stop at Corbet’s Gap, which offers sweeping views of the Knuckles Mountain Range. These vistas are a real treat, making a quick photo stop well worth it. The journey continues with a transfer to a rugged 4×4 vehicle that tackles the uneven terrain, a reminder that “rough” is part of the charm—this isn’t a journey for those who prefer smooth roads.

Upon arriving in Meemure, a village home to around 400 residents subsisting mainly on agriculture, you’ll get your first glimpse of rural life. The simplicity of the wood and clay huts, the vast green fields, and the crystal-clear streams immediately set the scene for what’s to come.

Day 1: Settling into Nature

Once at the campsite, the day is flexible, but expect to spend roughly four hours exploring or relaxing. Although specific details about the water activities aren’t provided in the review, the mention of “water read” hints at opportunities for swimming or relaxing in natural pools, which are likely nearby.

The real magic starts to unfold on Day 1 as you settle into camp and get a feel for the surroundings. You might choose to relax by the streams, listen to the sounds of nature, or simply enjoy the peace that pervades this tiny village.

Day 2: Hiking to Narangamuwa Village and Beyond

Day 2 is the most physically demanding part of the trip. The tour kicks off with a hearty Sri Lankan breakfast—probably featuring local bread, eggs, or curry—and hot tea, fuel for the full-day hike ahead. Around 8 am, you’ll set out on a challenging trek to Narangamuwa Village, passing Lakegala Mountain along the way.

The hike is described as “fairly tough,” and it’s clear that you’ll need a decent level of fitness. The route offers spectacular scenery, with views of mountain ranges and lush forests. As one reviewer pointed out, passing alongside Lakegala Mountain gives you a real sense of remote wilderness, and having lunch in the village allows you to experience local life firsthand.

You’ll return to camp by late afternoon, where you can relax, revisit the rock pool for a cooling dip, or simply unwind after the exertion. The evening features a campfire dinner with barbecue and music—an authentic, laid-back way to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 3: Waterfalls and Farewell

The final day starts with another traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. Around 8 am, you’ll undertake a 3 km hike into the forest to reach Navarathna Waterfall, a scenic spot perfect for a refreshing bath or just soaking in the natural beauty. The waterfall’s location deep within the forest promises a tranquil experience away from the crowds.

After the waterfall visit, it’s meal time—final lunch at the village—before preparing to leave. The journey back to Kandy involves an exciting 4×4 ride, a stop at the tea shop for a calming cup of tea, and finally, an air-conditioned transfer arriving in Kandy by late afternoon.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price includes transportation throughout with air conditioning, hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), bottled water, and basic safety provisions. The accommodation is camping, but it’s comfortable enough to feel connected to nature without sacrificing safety.

Not included are the first-day breakfast and expenses of personal nature or medication. Travelers should be prepared for the physical demands, especially during hikes, and should carry appropriate gear—hiking boots, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Real Insights

Based on reviews, the tour seems well-organized, with the guide providing helpful information about local flora and fauna. One traveler appreciated the “cooling dips in natural rock pools” and the opportunity to “interact with villagers,” adding depth to the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that “the route will be rough from the Hunnasgiriya Junction onwards,” so those with mobility issues may want to consider this. The tour is not recommended for children under 11 or travelers with serious health conditions, aligning with the physical nature of the activities.

For travelers craving authentic village life combined with adventure, this tour offers an unbeatable opportunity. The chance to stay in a rural setting, hike mountain trails, enjoy waterfalls, and camp under the stars creates a memorable experience. The all-inclusive price, with transportation, meals, and accommodations, provides good value—especially for those who want a hassle-free adventure.

The tour’s emphasis on local culture, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities makes it ideal for those who enjoy physical challenges and outdoor exploration. If you’re comfortable with moderate activity levels and are eager to disconnect from modern life for a few days, this trip could be a highlight of your Sri Lanka journey.

On the flip side, if you prefer luxury comforts, smooth paths, or minimal physical activity, you might find this experience too rugged or demanding. The basic camping setup and the rough terrain are part of the charm but could be a dealbreaker for some.

This 3-day camping experience in Meemure showcases a side of Sri Lanka that many travelers never get to see—simple, natural, and genuinely local. From mountain vistas to waterfalls, and from village life to starry nights around the campfire, it offers a well-rounded adventure suited for those who seek more than just sightseeing.

It’s a chance to disconnect, challenge yourself physically, and soak in the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s countryside. The thoughtful inclusion of guided activities and meals makes it easier for travelers to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Ideal for adventure lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a break from the tourist trail, this tour promises to deliver authentic memories in a setting that feels worlds away from urban life.

Is transportation included? Yes, transport throughout the tour, including hotel pickup and drop-off, is included in the price.

What should I bring? Pack hiking clothes, good boots, swimwear, and essentials for outdoor activities. The itinerary involves hikes and water activities, so prepare accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children? No, it’s not recommended for children aged 11 or under due to the physical demands and rural setting.

What is the accommodation like? You’ll be staying in basic camping setups at the campsite, with campfire dinners and scenic outdoor surroundings.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast (2), lunch (3), and dinner (2) are included, except for breakfast on Day 1.

Can I cancel? Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

What’s the difficulty level? The activities involve moderate physical effort, including hikes and water activities, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Does it involve physical exertion? Yes, especially during the full-day hike and forest walk to the waterfall.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, children under 11 are not recommended, and those with serious medical conditions should consider their suitability.

Is this a group tour? No, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, the camping tour in Meemure offers a distinctive slice of Sri Lanka’s countryside that’s hard to beat.