Why Sri Lanka?

Few and far between is a country with such mesmerising allure, from its warm welcoming people to its rich colonial heritage and its awe-inspiring landscape – Sri Lanka is a luxury destination like no other. With its long stretches of palm shaded beaches, lush green tea plantations, roaming elephant herds, abandoned fortresses and crystal clear oceans bordering white sandy beaches – put bluntly Sri Lanka has it all.

Remnants of British, Portuguese and Dutch colonialism meet the country’s vibrant Buddhist culture, creating a cocktail of colourful traditions and diversity. Head out to explore ancient ruins and shrines, tour a tea plantation or head off the beaten track to track down endangered leopards or elephant herds – the wonders of Sri Lanka are at your fingertips.

An often overlooked aspect of Sri Lanka is the cuisine. Local dishes vary depending on regional differences however wherever you go you will be able to find delicious curries which feed your soul, and leave you comforted and content. Dishes are bursting with spices and colour, and a variety of ingredients create food for everyone. The national dish is Kottu Roti – pieces of roti stir fried with ingredients such as egg, onion, chilli, spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat – and other culinary delights include dhal curries, lunu miris, pol sambol, and maalu ambul thiyal.

There is a charm found nowhere else in the world to be found in Sri Lanka. A unique mixture of vibrant and buzzing cities and peaceful nature. A place of healing, Ayurveda – the native healing system based on diet and herbs – was a relied on method of healing for centuries, and influences many wellness and meditation retreats throughout the country. Buddhism is the state religion of Sri Lanka and emphasises the importance of meditation and mindfulness in everyday life.

Whatever activities you wish to take part in, rest assured Sri Lanka will be able to offer it to you. With endless beaches, you can ride the waves with afternoons filled with windsurfing and waterskiing, scuba diving down to the colourful coral gardens and tropical fish, or relaxing and unwinding with a gentle stroll along the sand at sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the horizon and staining the waters a golden orange is truly something you need to experience at least once in your life. Some of the best beaches found in southern Sri Lanka include the sandy Tangalla, tropical Beruwala, and the picture perfect Mirissa.

One of the unique characteristics of this beautiful country is the juxtaposition of experiences. One day you could be snorkelling in the depths of the ocean, or exploring the buzzing cities, and the next you can be trekking through jungle, or hiking to the top of rocky mountains. Spending time exploring the hustle and bustle of cities such as Colombo, Kandy, or Galle, is a must-do and an eye-opening insight into Sri Lankan city life. The ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are filled with historical architecture and places of worship, waiting to inspire and amaze.

A defining feature of Sri Lanka is the breathtaking wildlife. 26 National Parks help to create one of the top-5 biodiversity spots in the world. Sri Lanka Asian elephants, sloth bears, leopards, sambars, and wild buffaloes all live in the wild, while blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins call the waters around Sri Lanka their home. There are nearly 433 bird species, and rare mammals such as red slender lorises, toque macaques, and purple-faced langurs.

Yala National Park is perhaps the most well-known national park, and for a reason. Safari through the open plains, thick jungle, and around rocky crags to spot herds of Sri Lankan elephants, and leopards hiding in the brush. Udawalawe National Park is another wildlife haven, with marshland, vast plains of grassland and a glorious mountainous backdrop.

Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites are ready and waiting to be explored, such as Sigiriya Rock, which rewards plucky adventurers who climb the 1200 steps with an ancient fort at the top, and sweeping 360° panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.