Sri Lanka Magazine

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COLOMBO + GALLE + KANDY + SIGIRIYA + POLONNARUWA

Few islands are as packed with attractions as Sri Lanka. Ancient fortresses are carved into giant rocks, while ornate temples sit tucked inside caves. Wild elephants roam through national parks where leopards hide in trees. Luxury hotels stand beside soft sand beaches, and sheltered villages perch along rugged coasts. From bustling Colombo and cultural Kandy to the countryside retreat of Nuwara Eliya and the enchanting tea country hills - Sri Lanka, known as the Teardrop Island , is filled with unique experiences.

WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK

ANURADHAPURA

MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK

PASIKUDAH

POLONNARUWA

SIGIRIYA

KANDY

The Essentials

NEGOMBO

NUWARA ELIYA

COLOMBO

DO YOU NEED A VISA? You should apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) ahead of your trip.

HORTON PLAINS NATIONAL PARK

UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

YALA NATIONAL PARK

WHAT IS THE TIME DIFFERENCE? Sri Lanka is GMT + 5.5 hours. HOW LONG IS THE FLIGHT?

BENTOTA

HAMBANTOTA

GALLE

A direct flight from London to Colombo is approximately 11 and a half hours.

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THE EXPERTS

THE WEATHER Great news - Sri Lanka is a year-round destination! The southwest experiences the brightest and driest days between December and March, while the eastern beaches welcome sunshine and calmer waters from May to August, perfect for a summer family getaway. Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and tea country, located in the centre of the island, can be visited all year. THE FOOD Food is a big part of Sri Lankan culture, so make sure to get stuck in. Hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu (chopped roti with shredded vegetables, meat, and spices), and polos (green jackfruit curry) are must try Sri Lankan dishes. The locals believe that you can’t properly enjoy the flavours and textures of food unless you eat with your fingers, so get ready to roll up your sleeves.

Sri Lanka has a thriving culture with a rich history and deeply ingrained traditions. Family values, festivals, hospitality, delicious cuisine, and even local arts and crafts are all influenced by not only Sri Lanka’s primary religion, Buddhism, but also Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. Embark on a truly authentic experience and tuck into flavoursome curries and rice dishes, including kottu roti and lamprais, before exploring Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. A proud centre of Theravada Buddhism, Kandy is home to an inspiring art scene, the Kadugannawa tea factory, and a World Heritage Site - The Temple of the Tooth. After a Sri Lanka tour, stay near one of the island’s stunning beaches. The best and perhaps quieter spots are peppered along the east coast. Trincomalee and Pasikudah have soft sand, calm waters, top diving spots, and a tranquil ambience. Or, if you opt for the southern coast’s beaches, look out for Sri Lanka’s stilt fishermen – an iconic symbol of this country’s coastal heritage.

Galle

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TANGALLE

PASIKUDAH

ANANTARA PEACE HAVEN

SUN SIYAM PASIKUDAH

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort boasts sea views within a centuries-old coconut estate. The facilities are top-tier – a split-level swimming pool, a spacious spa with a resident Ayurvedic doctor, and a clifftop restaurant. Pathways connect to the gym, organic garden and stand alone villas with private pools. It’s also a superb base for exploring Sri Lanka’s rainforests and pilgrimage sites. 7 nights half board, including flights and transfers Take a dip in the split-level infinity pool – little ones get their own space, too Get around in style with a luxury chauffeur or hop aboard the resort’s tuk-tuk service

Sun Siyam Pasikudah is a five-star boutique resort located close to some of Sri Lanka’s greatest heritage sites. Ideal for everyone, choose from one- or two-bedroom garden or beach pavilions, some with private pools. The resort lends itself to lazy days by the infinity pool and walks along the beach. Add in the dreamy spa, seasonal snorkelling, and even whale watching, and you’ve got the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

7 nights all-inclusive, including flights and transfers Recharge with spa rituals inspired by Sri Lankan heritage Explore nearby UNESCO Heritage Sites

FAMILY

LUXURY

EXPLORE

SPA

RELAX

BEACH

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THE FORTRESS RESORT & SPA

SHANGRI-LA HAMBANTOTA

GALLE

HAMBANTOTA

The Fortress Resort & Spa sits on the sands of Koggala Beach. Built in an elegant colonial style, the sea-facing rooms have either private terraces or balconies, while the residence suites feature plunge pools and butler service. The award winning Spa Naturel offers all-natural wellness and Ayurvedic treatments. Dining includes a variety of curated international cuisines, including a live teppanyaki station and a seafood market.

7 nights half board, including flights and transfers Relax at CHI Ayurveda Spa with a massage, bodywork or traditional therapies Get stuck into the family activities on offer, from water slides to a dedicated kids’ club more. Treat your taste buds to the flavours of Sri Lanka at the on-site restaurants, where quality local ingredients are at the heart of every dish. Shangri-La Hambantota occupies a prime spot on Sri Lanka’s golden southern coast. Slow life down at the serene Ayurveda-focused spa or enjoy laps in one of the three outdoor pools – the choice is yours. Nearby national parks offer the chance to spot elephants, leopards and

7 nights half board, including flights and transfers

Cool off in the pool, with whirlpool jets for you and a separate splash zone for the kids Head to the gym for a workout or unwind with an Ayurvedic massage

FAMILY

LUXURY

WILDLIFE

CULTURE

COUPLE

LUXURY

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YALA

EXPLORE

SAFARI

HIDDEN GEM

WILD COAST TENTED LODGE Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers an unforgettable glamping experience, combining the adventure of camping with the luxury of an eco-friendly safari resort. Each of the 28 cocoon-shaped tents comes with all the modern comforts you’ll need, including air conditioning and spacious en-suite bathrooms. If you want to treat yourself, some even feature private plunge pools. In a prime spot near Yala National Park, you’ll enjoy guided safaris - witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a wide array of bird species. After a day out exploring, relax in the lodge’s infinity pool overlooking the stunning surroundings, head to the spa for a soothing treatment, and enjoy a gourmet dinner that blends local flavours with international cuisine. These amenities in this remote setting give you a private and peaceful stay, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking serenity in the wilderness. What are you waiting for?

While Sri Lanka has many popular attractions and hotels, it’s also home to hidden gems. Whether searching for a tucked-away stay or a less crowded landmark, our off-the beaten-track experiences allow you to soak up this country’s beauty without disturbances. Why not take your away-from-it-all adventure to another level and spend a few days in Sri Lanka’s tea country? With views of hills, valleys and the Demodara Nine Arches Bridge, Nine Skies is a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Ella. You’ll enjoy scenic walks, hikes and train rides during the day and in the evening, you’ll savour a meal using local ingredients, including those from the resort’s garden. If you’re looking for a serene and intimate retreat, then Goatfell is just the ticket. With only four bungalows, each features a garden veranda and pays homage to the region’s rich heritage with modern luxuries. Make sure you take a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot while you explore the tea estate.

Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Sri Lanka from dawn until dusk with beachside dining available Explore Yala National Park on a guided nature walk or a bicycle exploration trip Enjoy post-evening game drive cocktails and canapés in the beach garden overlooking the ocean

STILT FISHERMEN Nuwara Eliya

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Udawalawe National Park

WHAT TO WEAR When visiting temples, you’ll need to dress respectfully, covering both your shoulders and knees. As you will be travelling around the teardrop isle, you’ll need to pack options. For example, light, loose, cotton clothing is perfect for the lowland areas that can be humid, whilst in the highlands, you will want to pack a fleece and jeans for the cooler evenings. WHAT TO TIP We often get asked about tipping your drivers and guides on our tours. You aren’t expected to tip, but drivers and service staff very much appreciate it. If you are happy with the service, $10 per day is reasonable. The local currency is closed, meaning you cannot take any in, so it is a good idea to bring USD for tips.

One of the best safari destinations outside Africa, Sri Lanka is home to 26 national parks, and every one is unique. Stretching to the sands of the southern shore, Yala’s shrub jungle hosts sloth bears, crocodiles and the planet’s highest density of leopards – though it still takes keen eyes to catch them on the prowl. Up-close elephant encounters are the big draw in neighbouring Udawalawe, where huge herds roam the open savannah. In the central highlands, Horton Plains offers cloud forest scenery and dramatic ‘World’s End’ cliffs. Wilpattu in the north is a calm, crowd-free wilderness – a paradise for camping, birdwatching and nature walks close to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Safaris in Sri Lanka are expert-led 4x4 jeep tours arranged from parkside hotels each dawn and dusk, so you can enjoy the wild as much or as little as you wish without ever compromising on comfort. Most parks and their safari drives operate all year, but Yala closes in September for the breeding season.

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MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK

NUWARA ELIYA

WILDLIFE

CULTURE

FIRST-TIMERS

Enjoy a decadent afternoon tea, play a round of golf, or head out on a tea plantation tour.

DISCOVER SRI LANKA

Wildlife plays a big part in this tour, too. You can choose beachside Yala, home to sloth bears, wild boar, and the world’s highest concentration of leopards. Or go to Udawalawe to see buffalo, crocodiles, and free-roaming elephants. On your final morning, visit Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants before stopping for lunch in the colonial port of Galle. Your trip doesn’t have to end there. Why not extend your stay and spend a few nights relaxing on the beach?

If you’ve never been to Sri Lanka and are not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered with our fully flexible eight-day tour. With the help of your English-speaking private driver, you’ll explore this beautiful island in comfort and style. On this fantastic tour, you’ll stay in hand-picked hotels, tick off cultural sites and captivating cities, and search for amazing wildlife in one easy trip. Journey through UNESCO-protected cities, like laid-back Kandy and ancient Galle, and up to three national parks as you experience ancient landmarks, natural attractions, and scenic adventures. On arrival in Colombo, you’ll meet your driver and head to Negombo to relax on the beach. The following day, you’ll journey to the Cultural Triangle where you can join a game drive in Minneriya National Park, home to the largest gathering of elephants, visit the original capital of Anuradhapura, discover the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the 11th century ruins of Polonnaruwa before visiting one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sites, Sigiriya Rock. In the cultural capital of Kandy, learn from the stories and exhibits of the National Museum of Kandy, wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens, and attend a spiritual service at the Temple of the Tooth - a sacred temple which houses a tooth of Buddha. From Kandy, instead of driving, why not hop onto one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated train rides, passing tea plantations, villages, and waterfalls on your way to Nuwara Eliya?

DAMBULLA CAVE TEMPLE

YALA NATIONAL PARK

SELLERS TOP TIP PAUL MEXSON

“Make sure you sit on the left-hand side of the train so you can see St. Clair Falls, often referred to as the Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, and add a night or two at the beach to the end of your trip.”

ANURADHAPURA

SIGIRIYA ROCK

MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK

POLONNARUWA

SIGIRIYA

DAMBULLA

9 nights half board, including flights and transfers Take a train into Sri Lanka’s scenic Hill Country and sip delicious Ceylon tea Enjoy a lively performance of traditional Kandyan dancing and drumming

KANDY

COLOMBO

NUWARA ELIYA

UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

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GALLE

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KANDY

YALA NATIONAL PARK

WILDLIFE

CULTURE

NATIONAL PARK

where orphaned elephants are rescued, before heading off on an elephant-focused safari. On day five, it’s time for Yala National Park, home to the world’s highest density of leopards, alongside sloth bears, elephants, wild boar, and much more. On your final day, travel to Galle, a city boasting a mix of British, Portuguese, and Dutch cultures. After exploring Galle, why not add a few nights’ beachfront stay? Or head straight to Colombo for your flight home.

SCENIC & WILDLIFE TOUR

Discover epic wildlife and spectacular scenery on our private six-day Scenic Sri Lanka tour. You’ll visit the UNESCO protected cities of Kandy and Galle, where you can explore Galle Fort. You’ll also discover Sri Lanka’s rich interior as you venture into the Hill Country. There are many incredible animals here - encounter baby elephants at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and spot leopards in Yala National Park. Nature, culture, and adventure await. To kick things off, your driver will meet you at the airport and take you to the traditional fishing village of Negombo. The next day, you’ll head to Sri Lanka’s cultural hub, Kandy. Enjoy a tour of this pretty city and stroll around Kandy Lake, which King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe famously built, before watching a traditional Kandyan performance in the evening. After feasting on a delicious breakfast, the following morning, make tracks for Sri Lanka’s Hill Country - home to renowned Nuwara Eliya. Surrounded by soaring mountains and lush tea plantations, you’ll have the chance to visit a tea factory where you can sample the country’s world famous Ceylon tea. Next up is Horton Plains National Park - due to foggy conditions here, it’s best to set off early. The plains are home to grasslands, cloud forests, and a variety of plants and animals and are set on a plateau that sits 2,000 metres above sea level. Elephant adventure? We’re all ears! Enjoy a scenic drive through Udawalawe National Park and visit its Elephant Transit Home,

NUWARA ELIYA

GALLE

SELLERS TOP TIP PRISCILLA SOONDRUM

“If seeing wildlife is big on your agenda, plan your visit between December and March - this time of year gives you the best chance for sightings.”

UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

7 nights half board, including flights, transfers and all touring Visit World’s End Drop, an 870-metre vertical escarpment and one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular natural wonders Hop aboard a train to Nuwara Eliya to mingle with the Sri Lankan locals and try some traditional tea-making

KANDY

COLOMBO

NUWARA ELIYA

HORTON PLAINS NATIONAL PARK

UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

YALA NATIONAL PARK

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GALLE

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KOTUGODA

BENTOTA

EXPLORE

REPEAT VISIT

CULTURE

on the beach, stroll into the resort town of Bentota, or join a guided walk through the garden estate of Lunuganga. For the final stop on your itinerary, head south to the historic town of Galle - a fortified city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The raised fort offers sweeping sea views and is home to galleries, cafés, and boutique shops. After a guided tour, check in to The Sun House. Each room features views over the manicured gardens, mango groves, or swimming pool, making for truly calm surroundings. Be sure to explore the nearby beaches and secluded coves before your journey ends.

11-DAY CULTURE, TEA & BEACH TOUR

For seasoned travellers, our awe-inspiring 11-day Culture, Tea and Beach tour lets you explore the diverse regions of Sri Lanka. Staying in beautiful boutique hotels, you’ll travel gradually through Kandy, Kandapola, and the Castlereagh Valley. Your journey begins in Kotugoda, where you’ll stay at The Wallawwa, a 19th century manor house with spacious garden suites, a dreamy spa, and a tropical-fringed pool. Next, you’ll head into Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. Stopping at the inland city of Kandy, famed for its Royal Botanical Gardens. You’ll stay on the outskirts at The Kandy House , a beautifully preserved former manor. With just nine rooms, this boutique hotel retains much of its original grandeur. Guests love the open-air restaurant tucked away on a terrace at the back of the house. After Kandy’s cultural atmosphere, continue to Hatton. En route to your hotel, Camellia Hills , you’ll have the chance to board a scenic train journey, a picture perfect ride with breathtaking views of rolling, tea-clad hills. With row after row of lush plantations, it’s no surprise that tea is the focus here. Over the following days, visit neatly manicured estates, learn how Ceylon tea is grown and crafted, and why not take a Sri Lankan cooking class at the hotel? Leaving the hills behind, you’ll go to the west coast to experience another side of Sri Lanka. For the next three days, embrace laid-back coastal living: relax

KANDY

GALLE

SELLERS TOP TIP RYAN DOYLE

“Whilst you are in tea country, make sure you enjoy High Tea, a British inspired experience, in an incredible setting.”

HATTON

KANDY

KOTUGODA

10 nights all-inclusive/bed & breakfast, including private car and driver plus flights Stay at handpicked boutique hotels, with style, attention to service and comfort Enjoy a breathtaking train journey through misty mountains and lush tea plantations

COLOMBO

HATTON

BENTOTA

GALLE

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AVANI KALUTARA

ANANTARA DUBAI THE PALM

TWIN-CENTRE

CULTURE

BEACH

REPEAT VISIT

CITY

BEACH

SRI LANKA & MALDIVES Blending the best of both worlds, spend seven days soaking up the rich culture and natural wonders of Sri Lanka, followed by seven days of pure barefoot luxury in the Maldives. Your holiday begins in Sri Lanka - think of misty tea plantations, ancient temples, bustling cities, and golden beaches, all within easy reach. You’ll be based at the Avani Kalutara , with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. It’s the ideal base to explore from, whether you’re wandering through local markets or heading out on safari. A short flight and a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport brings you to the 4* Oblu Xperience Ailafushi in the Maldives, where beach life takes centre stage. Think cheerful accommodation with ocean views or villas that put you just steps from the beach. From canoeing in the dazzling turquoise lagoon to snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs or for complete zen, book a treatment at ELE | NA The Spa – a tranquil garden spa with an ocean-view sauna that melts your worries away.

DUBAI & SRI LANKA Pair the glitz and glamour of Dubai with culture and adventure in Sri Lanka on this epic twin-centre holiday. In Dubai, you’ll stay at the five-star Anantara Dubai The Palm , located on the East Crescent of the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Spend sunny days at the resort, relaxing on the 400-metre private shoreline while enjoying views of the Arabian Gulf or head to the nearby waterpark. In the evening, head to Dubai Marina for some retail therapy before heading back to the hotel and tucking into a gorgeous dinner at one of the hotel’s eight eateries. The Shangri-La Hambantota in Sri Lanka is your ultimate beachside retreat. Dive into The Village within the resort, a vibrant tribute to Sri Lanka’s artisanal heritage. What’s more, just a stone’s throw away, encounter elephants, leopards, and more at Yala, Udawalawe, and Bundala National Parks. Enjoy the sunset with a walk along the beach before enjoying delicious food and vibrant cocktails at one of the four restaurants and bars.

OBLU XPERIENCE ALIAFUSHI

SHANGRIA-LA HAMBANTOTA

YALA NATIONAL PARK

10 nights, half board, including Emirates flights and transfers Enjoy a free excursion to Fort Lisaili, experiencing the true Dubai desert The Shangri-La Hambantota offers lots of family activities, including water slides, trapeze and a kids’ club

14 nights bed & breakfast/ all-inclusive, including return flights and all transfers Get under the skin of Sri Lanka’s culture, past and present

TO FIND OUT MORE

Kick off your shoes in the Maldives and claim your own secluded patch of sand

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