From Colombo: Belilena Cave Expedition Day Tour

Set out on a captivating journey back in time with the Belilena Cave Expedition Day Tour from Colombo. Venture deep into the lush jungles of Kitulgala, where the ancient Belilena Caves hold the secrets of Sri Lanka’s prehistoric past. Led by an experienced guide, uncover the fascinating history etched in the rock walls, from the remains of Balangoda Man to rare wildlife sightings along the way. This immersive 9-hour tour promises an enriching experience, blending the country’s natural wonders with its captivating historical legacy. Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Sri Lanka’s untold stories.

Good To Know

• Explore the prehistoric Belilena Caves, located a 2.75-hour drive from Colombo, featuring fossils and stone tools dating back 32,000 to 9,000 years.
• Set out on a 1-hour guided trek through dense jungles near Kitulgala, providing opportunities to spot rare wildlife en route to the caves.
• Discover the significant archaeological findings of Balangoda Man, including skeletal remains and structural foundations, that offer insights into early human life.
• Immerse in the guided exploration of the caves, led by an English-speaking guide, to enhance the educational and historical experience.
• Prepare for the expedition by bringing essential items such as mosquito repellent, comfortable footwear, and sun protection for a safe and enjoyable tour.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Belilena Cave Expedition Day Tour from Colombo provides an opportunity to explore a historic site with fascinating archaeological discoveries.

Priced from €91.11 per person, the 9-hour tour includes pickup from Colombo and a guided exploration of the Belilena Caves.

During the 1-hour trek through dense jungles, you’ll have the chance to spot rare birds and wildlife before reaching the caves.

Spanning over 32,000 to 9,000 years, the excavated fossils and stone tools offer a glimpse into prehistoric human life.

With an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an immersive experience that brings the past to life, making it a must-do for history and nature enthusiasts.

Itinerary and Experience

Typically, the day tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Colombo, setting you off on a 2.75-hour car ride to the town of Kitulgala.

Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the Belilena Caves, exploring these historic sites over the course of 2 hours.

The journey to the caves involves a 1-hour hike through dense jungles, offering opportunities to spot rare birds and wildlife along the way.

After the cave exploration, you’ll return to Colombo, your mind filled with the rich history and insights into prehistoric human life preserved within these ancient caverns.

Historical Significance of Belilena Caves

The Belilena Caves are a historic site that offer a unique glimpse into prehistoric human life.

Excavated between 1978-1983, the caves have yielded fascinating discoveries, including:

• Fossils and skeletal remains dated 32,000 to 9,000 years old, including the remains of Balangoda Man, who lived around 16,000 years ago.
• Micro lithic stone tools dating back 30,000 years, providing insights into the tools and technology used by our ancestors.
• Early structural foundations from 16,000 years ago, shedding light on how these prehistoric people lived and organized their living spaces.

These discoveries offer invaluable information about the diet, culture, and evolution of our prehistoric forebears.

Visiting the Belilena Caves allows you to step back in time and connect with the rich history of human civilization.

Preparation and Safety

Although adventurous spirits will relish the opportunity to explore the Belilena Caves, it’s crucial to come prepared.

Visitors should don long pants, closed-toe shoes, and pack mosquito repellent and rain gear to navigate the dense jungle terrain. A passport or ID, comfortable footwear, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Following the guide closely is essential, as the caves contain unexplored areas and ongoing excavations. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, pets, or those with large luggage.

With the right preparation and caution, visitors can safely enjoy the captivating prehistoric history of the Belilena Caves.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes an English-speaking trekker, entrance fees, refreshments, water bottles, and all applicable taxes and service charges.

However, the following items aren’t included:

• Food or drinks
• Gratuities (optional)
• Personal expenses
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, or dinner)

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, pets, or those with large luggage.

The focus is on providing an immersive and educational experience exploring the historical significance of the Belilena Caves.

Travelers should come prepared with the appropriate gear and mindset to fully appreciate this unique geological and archaeological site.

Explore the Prehistoric Wonders

Journey back in time as you explore the prehistoric wonders of the Belilena Caves. Step into a world frozen in time, where the ancient past comes alive through the remarkable discoveries unearthed within these enigmatic caverns. Explore the lives of the Balangoda Man, whose skeletal remains offer a glimpse into a bygone era. Marvel at the micro lithic stone tools and early structural foundations, tangible reminders of the ingenuity and resilience of our ancestors. As you traverse the jungles and uncover the secrets of the Belilena Caves, you’ll be transported to a time before modern civilization, leaving you awestruck and humbled by the enduring legacy of humanity’s past.

Prehistoric Discoveries	Significance
Balangoda Man (16,000 years old)	Insight into prehistoric human life and diet
Micro lithic stone tools (30,000 years old)	Evidence of early tool-making and technology
Early structural foundations (16,000 years old)	Clues about prehistoric settlements and architecture

Uncover the Secrets of Belilena

Through the dense, verdant jungles of Kitulgala, the path winds its way towards the enigmatic Belilena Caves.

This archaeological treasure trove holds the secrets of prehistoric human life, dating back thousands of years. Visitors can uncover the fascinating discoveries within, including:

• Fossils and skeletal remains of the ancient Balangoda Man, up to 16,000 years old
• Micro lithic stone tools, some dating back 30,000 years
• Remnants of early structural foundations, providing insights into prehistoric dwellings
• Clues about the diet and daily life of these long-lost civilizations
• The thrill of exploring the caves, guided by an expert who brings the past to life.

Experience the Belilena Cave Expedition

Amidst the lush, verdant jungles of Kitulgala, adventurers embark on an exhilarating expedition to the captivating Belilena Caves.

After a picturesque drive from Colombo, they trek through dense foliage, catching glimpses of rare birds and wildlife.

Entering the caves, explorers are transported back in time, discovering ancient fossils and skeletal remains dating back thousands of years.

The guided tour unveils the remarkable history and significance of these caves, once home to the Balangoda Man.

Trekkers enjoy this prehistoric world, marveling at the micro lithic stone tools and early structural foundations that offer a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors.

An unforgettable journey of discovery awaits those who embark on the Belilena Cave Expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Based on the tour details, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks. However, meals are not included in the tour price, so any personal food and beverages would be an additional expense.

Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. Participants should be able to handle the 1-hour hike to reach the caves.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility to reschedule. Participants can easily change their plans without financial penalty should unexpected circumstances arise.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees I Should Be Aware Of?

The tour price includes all entrance fees, refreshments, and transportation. However, the tour excludes any additional food, drinks, gratuities, and personal expenses. Travelers should also be aware that meals are not provided during the day trip.

Can I Extend the Tour or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour operator offers some flexibility to customize the Belilena Cave Expedition. Travelers can extend the duration or modify the itinerary, though additional fees may apply. It’s best to discuss any customization requests directly with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

The Belilena Cave Expedition Day Tour from Colombo offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s ancient past. Trekking through lush jungles and exploring the captivating Belilena Caves, you’ll uncover prehistoric fossils and artifacts, including the remains of the intriguing Balangoda Man. This enriching experience promises to transport you back in time, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage.