Sri Lanka Holidays Specialist Travel Agent

Lying off the South East coast of the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka is one of the most diverse destinations in the Indian Ocean, with a wide range of exotic experiences to tempt the discerning traveller. The coastal regions host a growing number of beach resorts from the cheap-and-cheerful end to opulent luxury, but with so much to see and do few are likely to choose Sri Lanka to simply fly-and-flop.

Whether your interests lie in cultural heritage, wildlife & nature, sightseeing or adventure, we'll put together the ideal itinerary to your precise requirements in order to take in all that this incredible destination has to offer.

What to Do in Sri Lanka

Culture

This lush, colourful island boasts a deep, rich heritage that comes to the fore in the 'Cultural Triangle' situated roughly between the former capital Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla in the North-Central region. Explore a wealth of fascinating temples, giant Buddha monuments, and archaeological ruins, crowned by the extraordinary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which many consider should be designated the world's 'Eighth Wonder'.


Culture is brought to life through theatre, dance and festivals, often celebrating both the predominantly Buddhist religious calendar and Sri Lanka's beloved elephants, revered in equal measure.

Hill Country

Start from the old British administrative centre of Kandy, host to the spectacular 10-day Esala Perahera festival each July/August, and head up into the hills and plains where a more temperate climate is perfect for producing some of the finest teas in the world.


Here you'll find that former plantation bungalows have been converted to serene, boutique hotels, perfect for sampling the local produce. The more adventurous can trek along hillside paths, scale Adam's Peak, or try their hand at white-water rafting.

Wildlife

Sri Lanka is something of a hidden gem when it comes to exotic biodiversity, although it's well-known amongst bird-lovers as a twitcher's paradise. Any tour is worth including a visit to at least one of the many National Parks.


Search for the elusive 'spotted ghost' leopard in Yala, or witness 'the gathering' of wild elephants in Minneriya. As well as snorkelling and diving spots, the coastal areas offer some of the best whale and dolphin watching to be found in the Indian Ocean.

Beaches

Where the Indian Ocean meets Sri Lanka you'll find long stretches of pristine beaches, ideal for relaxing for a few days after a head-spinning tour of the island. Try your hand at water sports, surfing or diving, or venture out from your resort to observe coastal life where epxert fishermen balance on stilts to keep their catch off guard.

City Life

Spend a night or two in boutique luxury to soak up the atmosphere in the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka's cities, such as the capital Colombo or the fortified Galle in the South. Take a guided walking tour, and shop for trinkets, spices and gemstones in the markets, or indulge in the island's famed culinary delights.

Golf

Sri Lanka is undoubtedly renowned for its cricketing prowess; however, golf is finding a foothold in the jewel of the Indian Ocean, which is now host to three, and soon to be four, exciting courses. This is not to say that Sri Lanka has no golfing heritage: established in 1879, the Royal Colombo Golf Club is believed to be the second oldest club outside of Britain. Indeed, the Sri Lanka Amateur Golf Championship is the second oldest national championship in the world, starting in 1891.

Guests in the country’s capital can enjoy the Royal Colombo Golf Club, just 20 minutes from the centre this historic course is an oasis of tranquillity. Those visiting Kandy are just 45 minutes from the famously scenic Victoria Golf & Country Resort, which boasts a massive 500 acre setting. Residents exploring tea country have access to Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, where the colonial heritage and verdant environment matches the ‘East meets West’ ambience of the surrounding area. Finally, the Shangri-La Hambantota is set to open their on-site, 18-hole course in August this year, promising ‘spectacular views and distinctive challenges for both casual and seasoned players’. Each of the island’s courses occupy a range of different terrains, all offering something different to the intrepid player. Regardless of ability though, all players will find splendid courses, which offer a dramatic, tropical setting.

Top Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Colombo

Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo, is a dynamic city that pulses with life while also preserving an old world charm.


Amidst this metropolis you will find everything from colonial buildings to temples and pristine beaches to recreational parks. Add exciting shopping, delectable dining and happening nightlife into the mix and it is easy to see why Colombo is such a popular tourist destination.

Anuradhapura

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura for many centuries served as the country’s capital and today showcases a wealth of cultural sites.


Famous attractions include the Ruwanweliseya dagoba and the Samadhi Buddha statue that shows Lord Buddha in a state of deep meditation. One’s tour would not be complete without visiting the Sri Maha Bodhi which is the world’s oldest documented tree.

Polonnaruwa

Established during the 11th and 12th centuries AD, Polonnaruwa was the country’s 2nd capital and is seen as a popular stopover for those wanting to enjoy a cultural trip or two.


From remnants of ancient temples and dagobas such as the Gal Vihara to the beautifully adorned royal palace of King Parakramabahu, one certainly will be spoilt for choice.

Sigiriya

Constructed in the 5th Century AD during the reign of King Kashyapa, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is recognised as one of the most important cities of the Cultural Triangle and has an array of fascinating and ingenious features.


Be awed by its composition of water gardens, ramparts, a mirror wall and of course the frescoes which provide a valuable insight into the artistic heritage of the country.

Dambulla

A hub which has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in five magnificently constructed cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla.


As you enter the retreat look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land which today houses an important junction in the country's economic and cultural uplifting. Inside bserve the exquisite cave paintings along walls that shelter 150 further statues of Lord Buddha.

Matale

An agricultural zone in the Central Province, Matale seldom drops off the maps due to its remarkable contribution of flagship crops extending from tea, rubber & vegetables to spices. Spearheading the Rebellion back in 1848, Matale today takes immense pride in its story woven around spices.


Stop by the side of a spice garden - into which you will be most welcome for a eye-opening tour - and learn the therapeutic values of spices & processes over a refreshing cup of herbal tea. Or take a wander through the town streets, filled with voices and colours.

Kandy

Kandy was the Island’s last ancient capital and remains a prominent cultural and tourist destination. Home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha - a UNESCO World Heritage site – and Kandy lake, the city comes alive every year in July or August during the Kandy Esala Perahera festival.


Ten days of festivities mark one of the oldest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, which includes processions of elephants, flutes, drummers and dancers.

Nuwara Eliya

Boasting a rich historical and cultural heritage, Nuwara Eliya – also known as ‘Little England’ – is admired for its immense natural splendour in the midst of tea plantations, coupled with unique architecture.

Ella

Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, Ella is a famed destination in the scenic Hill Country. The views through the “Ella Gap” across the Southern plains of Sri Lanka are particularly memorable, and this is a beautiful little town to serve as a base for countryside trekking.

Kithulgala

Strap yourself up and be prepared to be taken across the rapids of Kithulgala, location of the award-winning film "The Bridge On The River Kwai", which caters to the diverse interests of the white water rafting aficionado. Begin your journey upstream, taking in the sceneries of a jungle habitat as you indulge in an action-packed experience designed for the adventurer at heart.

Kataragama

A popular pilgrimage site, Kataragama is home to the well-known shrine, Maha Devale, dedicated to Murugan (Skanda) or Kataragama Deviyo. The city offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s religious diversity and the Kirivehara Dagoba, the Hindu Sivam Kovil and the insightful Kataragama Museum are among the other sites of interest here. In July/August Kataragama plays host to the colourful Perarhera Festival, featuring dance, fire-walkers, music, acrobatics and of course elephants!

Galle

Located in the Deep South, the city of Galle stands testament to the island’s rich colonial heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iconic Dutch Fort with its historic ramparts encloses the city while within, charming cobblestone streets lead to colonial buildings, museums, old churches and charming cafes. Nearby are the beaches of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna where fun in the sun & sand abound.

Bentota

Nestled along sun-drenched shores, the peaceful fishing village of Bentota is today a true beach lover’s paradise. This coastal locale is also a hotspot for water sports be it jet-skiing, windsurfing, waterskiing or banana boat rides, all of which let you feel the rush of skimming the waves in total freedom. For more outdoor fun take a Bentota River cruise, ideal for bird watching enthusiasts.

Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa has one of the best beaches along the South Coast and is home to the Coral Gardens, which are a major highlight. While snorkelling & diving amidst clear blue waters and abundant marine life offer plenty of underwater adventure, Hikkaduwa is also known for its happening nightlife and hosts the island’s largest beach festival, Hikka Fest, which attracts local and foreign revellers alike.

Kalpitiya

A whale watcher’s paradise, Kalpitiya offers an idyllic coastal getaway for the entire family. From bar reefs to sandy beaches and azure ocean waters to mangrove swamps, this sanctuary by the sea is an ideal place to kickback, soak up the sun and enjoy a laidback island lifestyle. Kalpitiya also has the country’s most popular kite surfing school, providing adrenaline pumping action at sea.

Jaffna

Jaffna in the North of the country offers a fascinating insight into a rich local culture. The popular Nallur Kovil which features Hindu deities is one of the city’s most spectacular attractions and is the site of the famed Nallur Festival. Be it taking a boat ride to the Nagadeepa Vihara or lazing on the sands of Casuarina Beach, Jaffna provides many new experiences to be enjoyed.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is Sri Lanka’s major eastern hub and, despite a tumultuous military history is now a vibrant, up-and-coming tourist destination as well as one of the finest deep water ports in the world. The eastern capital boasts a rich ancient and colonial history, meaning the city has plenty to offer culture vultures of all varieties. For those wishing to ‘fly and flop’ however, Trincomalee is also ideally located for access to Uppuveli and Nilaveli beaches. The harbour is also notable for its whale watching opportunities and ‘Swami Rock’ provides the perfect vantage point to do so. Oceanographers attest this point to be one of the greatest in the world to observe Blue Whales, the largest mammals on Earth, and also Sperm Whales.

Passekudah

The tourist development in Passekudah was famously destroyed in the 1980s by the Rebel insurgents in Sri Lanka’s civil war. Now tourism in this beachside locale is set to rising from the ashes. Famous for its powdery, golden sands, Passekudah has been designated as a ‘Special Economic Zone’ to drive development. This idyllic stretch of Eastern coastline is prepped for the construction of numerous resorts hoping to take advantage of sublime ocean views and temperate bathing waters. Expect to see large-scale future developments of some of the most opulent resorts in Sri Lanka.

Getting Around

Sri Lanka's attractions are spread throughout the country, and if you want to make the most of your visit you'll need to travel around. Most journeys are by car, and all our tours include the services of a knowledgeable and experienced English speaking driver & guide, who will add colour and context to all the places of interest on your itinerary. He'll also seek out off-the-beaten track lunchspots, or help you barter for spices in the local markets.

Some journeys can be made by train, and the route up from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya in the Hill Country is a real treat, with breathtaking views and charming stations from a bygone era.


For those keen to cut down the time on the road, there's a network of small local airports for making short hops by light aircraft or seaplane.

Sri Lanka's National Parks, Islands & Forest Reserves

Yala National Park

Regarded as the most popular national park in Sri Lanka, Yala is surrounded by traces of ancient civilisation while the park itself comprises of pilgrim sites and a number of intriguing wildlife. Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, the Golden Palm Civet and a wide variety of birds are some of its inhabitants. Comprising of five extensive blocks, the Yala National Park should definitely feature on any traveller’s itinerary.

Kumana National Park

Kumana is Yala National Park’s smaller, less-visited sister - it was even once known as Yala East. As such, you’ll get all the great fauna and flora that Yala is famous for, without the large crowds that follow.


Spread over 357 sq km, Kumana’s numerous lagoons make it the perfect sanctuary for birdlife. May-June is nesting season for the nearly 255 species of birds, which have been recorded in the National Park.

It’s not all about the birds, though. It’s not uncommon to see leopards, elephants, buffalo and crocodiles. There are even a smattering of very rarely seen bears in the park.

Kumana also has great religious significance - it is the site of the annual Hindu 'Pada Yatra' pilgrimage, where thousands of devotees make their way through the park on the way to the Kataragama festival.

Gal Oya National Park

Located in Sri Lanka's Eastern provinces, Gal Oya National Park is the only place in the country where you can take a boat safari. You'll embark on Senanayake Samudraya, the largest reservoir in the country.


The reservoir is home to myriad lifeforms including freshwater crocodiles - which can be seen mouths agape, basking on the basin's banks - and elephants that swim from island to island looking for fresh vegetation. The park is also enticing for birding enthusiasts, boasting around 150 of Sri Lanka's 430 species of birds.

For those looking for a quieter safari experience, Gal Oya is the one to go for. While the rarity of vehicles in the park means the animals are a little more camera-shy than their neighbours in Yala and Kumana national parks, you really will have the feeling of being on a truly wild safari here.

Minneriya National Park

Elephants are a common sight in Minneriya, which has found fame as the location of the world’s largest known gathering of Asian elephants during the dry periods when they converge around the Minneriya Tank reservoir. Featuring a variety of wetlands, montane forests and scrublands, Minneriya is one of the most visited national parks in Sri Lanka having been declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938.

Horton Plains National Park

Named as a national park in 1988, Horton Plains is situated 32 km from Nuwara Eliya. The park is rich in biodiversity, with many endemic species living amongst the abundant flora and fauna. The trek to World’s End cliff and Baker’s Falls waterfall are also popular with visitors to the park.

Wilpattu National Park

The Wilpattu National Park is home to the elusive leopard, and travellers on the lookout for the species will also come across a number of willus, or lakes. The premises receive an annual rainfall of 1000 millimetres, making the best time to visit during February and October.

Wasgamuwa National Park

A favourite for all those making their way towards the north central part of Sri Lanka, the Wasgamuwa National Park is rich in biodiversity. Found 225 km from Colombo, the park boasts a prized collection of mammals, reptiles and birds, making it a must-visit for those arriving in Sri Lanka on holiday.

Udawalawe National Park

Bordering Uva and Sabargamuwa Provinces, the Udawalawe National Park covers over 30,000 hectares and provides the ardent nature traveller with a wonderful outdoor experience. Whether you are interested in elephants or fascinated by slithering snakes, the area will prove to be well worth the time and effort spent.

Pigeon Island

Found a short distance from Nilaveli Beach, Pigeon Island is a national park and consists of two areas. An enchanting coral reef surrounds the larger of the two, while species of shark and turtle can be seen swimming in nearby waters. Scuba diving & snorkelling are popular pastimes carried out here, and visitors should also keep an eye out for sightings of the famed Rock Pigeon after which the island was named.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Translating to the ‘Kingdom of the Lion,’ the virgin rainforest of Sinharaja is filled with plenty to see. Encounter flocks of colourful birds and majestic mammals as you wander down lush jungle paths.


A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sinharaja spans an area of around 21 kms from east to west and is a rich storehouse of endemic plants, birds, butterflies & amphibians.

Knuckles Forest Reserve

Looming large over the Dumbara Valley, the Knuckles Mountain Range offers thrill seekers plenty of space to go trekking and sightseeing within its surroundings. Capture sights of indigenous plants and wildlife as you head off into the distance, only to arrive at a local tea factory, where one can learn how Sri Lanka’s favourite beverage is manufactured.

Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is synonymous with variety, so expect to be presented with a dazzling array of succulent treats aimed at stimulating your taste buds. Whether you are at a hotel or out sightseeing on the busy streets of Colombo, items such as kottu, hoppers, pittu, string hoppers and rotti – made complete with a dash of chilli sambol – will be available in abundance.

Rice & Curry

A favourite amongst villagers and city dwellers, rice and curry serves as the staple diet of many. The rice in Sri Lanka comes in many varieties and colours, and visitors can select from a wide choice of veggie and meat dishes to complement a memorable culinary journey. A host of other accompaniments, including coconut sambol, pickle and dried fish, are often available.

Seafood

Happen to be holidaying by the coast? Then why not pick and choose from an assortment of seafood dishes, prepared in accordance with recipes that have thrilled foodies the world over. From juicy jumbo prawns to spicy crab curry, these dishes will not only provide diners with a fabulous experience, but would also serve as a great insight into local food traditions.

Desserts

Whether it is a mix of buffalo curd with coconut treacle or vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce, the desserts found in Sri Lanka are sure to leave you craving for more. There are numerous ice cream parlours on the island, while at the resorts and hotels you are sure to be offered a tempting fresh fruit platter.

Traditional Sweets

The best time to get a taste of the traditions and customs of the country would be during the religious festivals that are held throughout the year. Hot oil cakes referred to as ‘kavum’, ‘aluwa’ and ‘kokis’ can be enjoyed during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year while ‘Watalappam’, a pudding made with jaggery and egg white will be offered during the celebration of Ramadan.

Fruits

From sweet oranges, bananas, pomegranates and many varieties of mangoes, to the freshest strawberries grown in the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya, one is given plenty of choice for healthy indulgence. Start the day with a glass of papaya juice, then try the more exotic fruits such as rambutan, durian and mangosteen.

Travel Advice

Health

When travelling to Sri Lanka you should seek advice from your doctor or health professional well in advance of travel to check what vaccinations and/or any other health requirements may be necessary.

Travellers to Sri Lanka should also be aware that the country experiences outbreaks of the mosquito-borne dengue fever. It is therefore recommended that you take appropriate measures to try and avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Visas

Visas are required for travel to Sri Lanka. The recent change to eVisas has been overturned by the courts, so visitors will again need to apply for visas upon arrival in the country.

Further advice for both entry requirements and health matters can be found on the FCDO Travel Advice and the NHS Fit for Travel websites.

Sri Lanka & the Maldives

Given its location and all it has to offer, Sri Lanka twins perfectly with the Maldives. We can think of no better way to round off a heady, whirlwind tour than balanced with a few, low-key days on one of the Maldives' 'no-news, no-shoes', remote desert island resorts.


With our intimate knowledge of these destinations, we'll help choose the perfect place to complement your Sri Lanka experience for an unforgettable holiday or honeymoon.

Take a look at a sample itinerary for Sri Lanka & the Maldives.

Sri Lanka Holiday FAQs

How do you get to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan Airlines fly daily from London Heathrow arriving in Colombo the next day, with excellent service on Airbus A330 aircraft on all London routes, including flat beds in Business Class. The schedule connects well with the short hop down to Male if twinning with a stay in the Maldives, with a day flight return to London.

Emirates also offer a daily service with a stop-over in Dubai en route.

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a tropical destination with warm temperatures year round and regional, seasonal climates across the island. As is normal in the tropics, plenty of sunshine is interspersed with rain showers, sometimes heavy, that give the island its verdant foliage.

December to April tends to see calmer, sunny weather in the south & southwest, and it's also a lovely time to visit the central hills and plains.

In the summer months, southwesterly winds crossing the Indian Ocean tend to bring more rainfall and choppier weather to the southern coastal areas. This is a good time to visit the cultural triangle and east/northeast coasts (with new resorts popping up regularly), which can experience long dry spells.

Can I alter the Sri Lanka itineraries?

Yes, absolutely! All our Sri Lanka trips are completely bespoke, individual itineraries. It's entirely up to you how much or little you would like to take in or combine. The Sri Lanka itineraries listed on our website are just food for thought but our first step is to discuss with you what you would like to experience and get out of your visit to this amazing destination.