Sri Lanka is an island of astonishing contrasts, rich in history,culture and natural beauty, where splendours range from ancient cities and golden beaches to emerald tea plantations, timeless temple ruins and wonderful wildlife.
Across the island, flavour leads the way, with freshly caught fish, fragrant curries, hoppers and pol sambol, usually paired with a cup of Ceylon tea or a shot of Arrack.
A standout destination for wildlife, there are 22 national parks home to elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and seasonal whale watching off the southern coast.
Itinerary experiences often range from climbing the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya to wandering Galle Fort and sharing a game of cricket with locals.
With easy links between Colombo, hill-country trains, wildlife-rich parks and the island’s southern shores, Sri Lanka is made for touring.
Few places offer the variety found in Sri Lanka. The island’s vibrant culture and layered history of Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, are reflected in its architecture,customs and cuisine. North of the capital, Colombo, the island’s famous Cultural Triangle stretches between the ancient former capitals of Anuradhapura to the north, Polonnaruwa to the east and Kandy to the south. Between them lie the revered cave temples of Dambulla and the 5th-century rock fortress of Sigiriya, widely regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most extraordinary sights.
In the central hills, cool-climate tea estates and old-world railways wind throughverdant landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter elephants and leopards in Yala,Udawalawe and other national parks, while the south coast tempts with palm-fringed beaches, iconic stilt fishermen and Galle’s UNESCO-listed fort, one of eight World Heritage Sites found throughout the country.
With almost year round sunshine, the best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is driest. In contrast, visits to the cultural triangle are most popular from April to September. Two annual monsoons are in the South West and central hills, from May to September, and in the North East from November to February.
Ishq Colombo offers a calm well considered base in a quiet central neighbourhood, shaped by architect Channa Daswatta and rooted in the Yusoof family’s story, with thoughtful detail that reflects Colombo’s history and its coastal setting.
Ahu Bay sits on Sri Lanka’s south coast with a calm beach-house feel and thoughtful service. Its laid-back setting encourages unhurried days shaped by the ocean, nearby villages and the area’s distinctive natural life.
Tucked high in Sri Lanka’s tea country, Uga Halloowella is a lovingly restored historic bungalow overlooking the Castlereagh Reservoir, where heritage, luxury and serene beauty converge for an all-inclusive escape.
Kayaam Wellness sits on a quiet stretch of Tangalle’s south coast, a nine-room retreat shaped around Ayurveda, open sea views and unhurried routines. With a focused wellness programme and a coastal setting, it offers a measured, restorative stay.
A restored ten suite bungalow set in the hills above Kandy, W15 Hanthana Estate sits among tea gardens and forest, offering long views across one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic mountain ranges while retaining its early colonial character.
Set on a secluded coconut-fringed cliff above the Indian Ocean, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle blends barefoot luxury with refined elegance. With private villas, an Ayurvedic spa, immersive local experiences and oceanfront dining, it offers a sanctuary for discerning travellers.
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