Sri Lanka, you stole my heart.
From Sacred Temples to Tea Country and Wild Coasts.
Sri Lanka is one of those rare places that gets under your skin in the best possible way. This jewel of the Indian Ocean might be small in size, but it is immense in experience from misty tea-clad hills, ancient temples and sacred sites to mesmerising wildlife encounters and golden beaches where time seems to slow down. What truly stole my heart, though, were the Sri Lankan people, whose warmth and smiles stay with you long after you return home.
Ayubowan! (Hello)
Sri Lanka has left an ever-lasting impression in my heart, a stunning country, and people alike. Known as the “Teardrop” country in the Indian Ocean offering you a multitude of experiences from green hill country, ancient ruins, cultural heritage, wildlife, and beautiful beaches.
Grab a cup of tea and a biscuit and enjoy my personal journey through Sri Lanka!
On arrival we transferred to the Wallawwa hotel Kotugoda for a most wonderful stay to re-charge in the beautiful oasis and tranquil setting of this colonial style boutique hotel before embarking on our adventures.
Early morning we set off with our private guide, Ananda, towards Sigiriya. Firstly, a stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the largest best preserved rock cave temple in Sri Lanka. A particular interest for anyone who loves historic art and paintings which depicts the life of Lord Buddha.
Moving on we arrived in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Minneriya National Park for a 4x4 jeep safari. The elephants had other plans as they moved on to find water, so we ended up at Hurula Eco Park where we discovered many elephants wandering in their natural environment, just as nature intended. From males to families with baby elephants and even a heavily pregnant female. This was a massive highlight for me and exciting to watch and follow them.
Late evening we arrived at the luxury Water Gardens hotel for dinner and rest as we had an early start to climb Sigiriya Rock for sunrise. This hotel is set out over beautiful grounds, lake, and views of Sigiriya Rock. Our suite was stunning.
Sigiriya Lion's Rock is the most iconic site dating from 477AD and one of the seven World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. Not an easy climb for sure, however it was 100% worth every one of the 1236 steps. The views are outstanding, the fortress ruins are unbelievable, and sunrise was incredible. Without a doubt one of my most memorable achievements.
Later this afternoon we travelled to Kandy, arriving at the beautiful Kandy House Boutique Hotel. This stunning manor surrounded by beautiful, manicured gardens and private pool was a fabulous retreat from the busy city of Kandy.
This evening the main attraction was the Poojas (religious service) at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a magnificent, adorned shrine. Ceremony occurs three times per day with traditional music.
Following a delicious breakfast, our guide organised our train tickets for a local train from Kandy to Hatton where we embarked on the most magnificent destination, Ceylon Tea Trails. Our 6-room bungalow solely for our own use with butler service was located high up offering sublime views of the Tea Trails. A luxury colonial bungalow with an All-inclusive home away from home feel offered us a pool, plunge pool, tennis, bowls plus beautiful gardens. While here we visited the Dunkeld Tea Factory and some other bungalows, each with their own unique style. I adored the Tea Trails and would highly recommend incorporating into your itinerary. The Pekoe Trail is another highlight in this area for walking/hiking enthusiasts. The scenery is unreal and watching the tea pickers was very surreal. Picture/postcard territory.
Following an incredible 2 night/3 days at the Ceylon Tea Trails we embarked on our journey further south to Yala. There was more in store for us as our guide organised an experience for us on the Calypso Tourist Train to incorporate a stop at the famous Nine Arches Bridge. Amazing experience. The views along the way are incredible, the locals ready to give you a big wave from their homes as you pass. From rolling hills to waterfalls this is a must-do experience.
We then passed through Nuwara Eliya and Ella on route south, while we did not stay, it was super to see both places and I was particularly impressed by both. Ella is a popular place to incorporate the tourist train and Little Adams Peak, another hike to explore the viewpoint and the Ravana Waterfall. A very pleasant drive took us to Yala National Park for our overnight at the Luxury Uga Chena Huts, where the jungle meets the ocean. A unique and spectacular eighteen room hotel, each room has their own private pool in the jungle.
Yala National Park is the second largest in Sri Lanka offering early morning or afternoon game drives. Our safari guides met with us at dinner to explain the mornings events and at 6am we began our entry into the park by 4x4 jeep. Another incredible experience awaited us with vast amounts of wildlife. From birds to monkeys, water buffalo, crocodile, wild boar, peacocks, deer, eagles, lizards, a tusked elephant and amazingly a leopard was all spotted.
On route to Koggala we were invited to visit the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle hotel for lunch. A 5* luxury resort with the most inviting entrance and welcome. A large but not imposing premium hotel directly on the beach, with fabulous infinity pools, spa, pool villas to choose from plus spectacular sea views from the cliff side.
Our final hotel stop was the Fortress Resort and Spa in Koggala where we had time to retreat and relax. Arriving through large fortress gates we met an open plan reception with sweeping views of the ocean and infinity pool. Rooms are large and airy with multiple options to choose from. Very inviting for families, fabulous staff and the food was delicious.
No trip would be complete without a visit to the Galle Fort and town, a 16th century UNESCO World Heritage Site and once a prominent seaport. Peruse through the winding streets and historical buildings. Browse the market stalls, antique shops, enjoy the view and have lunch at Fort Bazaar Galle. Galle is steeped in history through the centuries, a gorgeous experience.
Unfortunately, it was time to leave Sri Lanka. I genuinely do hope and plan to return some day to continue exploring this wonderful country. I recommend Sri Lanka for a wonderful honeymoon destination to combine a multitude of experiences, luxury hotels, activities followed by a beautiful beach to end. For couples, groups of friends, a solo traveller with guide and families there is not one aspect that I could say I did not like. Loved every step through Sri Lanka and the people are the most wonderful and friendly I have ever met, not to mention the fabulous food.
That is another story!
Please do not hesitate to contact me directly to start planning your own tailor‑made Sri Lankan adventure. Working closely with our trusted local partners, I will create the perfect itinerary just for you and I am confident you will come home not only delighted, but already dreaming of returning.
Stuthy!
