Sri Lanka

Parked perilously close to India, Sri Lanka is the jewel of the Indian Ocean that will enchant you with a bounty of treasures. The island may be relatively small, but it’s got it all – tropical rainforests, ancient cities, wildlife parks, palm-fringed beaches, picturesque hill country, exceptional food and a rich cultural legacy. A visit to Sri Lanka should be on the bucket list of all travelers!
Need to know

BEST TIME TO VISIT

October to mid-April is the best time to visit the island as it generally bright, sunny and the temperatures are cooler.

IDEAL LENGTH OF A TRIP

We recommend a minimum of 8-10 days for an easy paced trip on the ground to visit the main sights of the island.

WHERE TO VISIT

For first timers, we recommend visiting the island’s historically significant sites in the Cultural Triangle, its verdant tea plantations in the Hill Country, prominent national parks (Yala & Minneriya National Park), the UNESCO World Heritage Dutch fort at Galle and the beautiful beaches on the southern coast.

Itineraries

All our itineraries are individually crafted not only to suit the traveler but to also be educational, insightful, relaxing and fun. Here are a few sample itineraries to help you plan your getaway to Sri Lanka. We can adapt and change any element of these journeys, or design an itinerary from scratch, depending on your wish list. You may also like to speak to one of our travel designers who will be happy to help you plan your trip to the island.
The Best of Sri Lanka (10 days)
Off-the-beaten track in Sri Lanka (11 days)
Wildlife Wonders of Sri Lanka (16 days)

Experiences

We also offer luxury bespoke trips to India, Nepal & Bhutan. Our travel designers have great insider knowledge on the best kept secrets in the Sri Lankan subcontinent. With years of experience in showcasing the region’s highlights and uncovering its hidden gems, they will plan the perfect holiday that exceeds expectations and helps you create memories that last a lifetime.

Our Other Destinations

We also offer luxury bespoke trips to India, Nepal & Bhutan. Our travel designers have great insider knowledge on the best kept secrets in the Indian subcontinent. With years of experience in showcasing the region’s highlights and uncovering its hidden gems, they will plan the perfect holiday that exceeds expectations and helps you create memories that last a lifetime.

Colombo by tuk-tuk

This experience offers travelers the exhilarating experience of riding these three wheeled vehicles in a safe environment, assisted by trained, English-speaking drivers. It is a fun way to explore the city with your own local friend and guide who has an in-depth knowledge of the city. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore some ‘non-touristy’, rare and quirky haunts that will give you an insight into life in Colombo!

Carve a Mask

Channel your inner artist and participate in an exclusive hands-on workshop that celebrates the age-old tradition of mask making. Work with a master craftsman/woman and nurture your understanding of Kolam mask carving whilst, also learning the different techniques used to carve a block of wood. Craft your own masterpiece using traditional and sustainable resources such as recycled paper, clay, broken tiles and beeswax.

Bikes, Boats and Bites in Galle

Explore rural areas of Galle which is dotted with rice fields, cinnamon plantations, lowland tea fields and quaint mud roads adjoining small villages. Begin your journey by taking a river boat ride down the Kapu Ela River. Thereafter, mount your bike and take an exhilarating ride through rural Galle whizzing past paddy fields, small villages and humble markets where the villagers trade. End your tour at a local’s traditional mud hut with some refreshing herbal tea and traditional hoppers.

Beeralu Lace Making Workshop in Galle

When in Galle, participate in a hands-on Beeralu Lace making workshop with a local artisan, who hails from a family of traditional beeralu lace makers. Believed to have been introduced by the Portuguese in the 16 th century, Beeralu is a form of pillow lace hand woven in intricate patterns, often in delicate shades of white. A fascinating process, you will learn about the history of Beeralu Lace making and the different stages involved in weaving it.

A Tryst with Sri Lankan Cooking in Galle

Visit a local family home for a special culinary experience. Your host is a charming 4th generation fort resident who is passionate about cooking and is well-known in Galle for her impressive food. She will take you through the basics of cooking biryani and if you like, you can assist her in preparing the dish. Once you’ve finished cooking, you will sit down with the family to enjoy the food you’ve helped make.

Witness a Traditional Kandyan Dance and Drum Performance

This special experience celebrates the traditional arts established during the heyday of the Kandyan Kingdom and includes a variety of acts – dances depicting the majestic walk of the elephant, the mystical movements of the cobra, a, mask dance and the Ginisila (fire dance). After the performance, a professional dancer will help you dress up in the traditional attire and teach you the basics of Kandyan Dance.

Palmyrah Art Tour in Jaffna

Take an excursion to one of the villages in Karainagar to discover the fascinating art of Palmyrah weaving. You will visit the humble home of a weaver who has been conjuring intricate patterns with palmyrah leaves since decades. An intricate process, you will learn about the techniques and materials involved in creating this piece of art.

Take an Excursion to Cinnamon Island from Mirissa

The gentle coastal hills of southern Sri Lanka are especially suited to the growth of cinnamon. Take a guided plantation and factory visit to learn how cinnamon is extracted. During this experience, you will see how cinnamon is harvested, peeled and processed. If you like, you can also try some freshly brewed Sri Lankan cinnamon tea after your tour.