In the past year I was lucky enough to be invited to go to Sri Lanka on a 12-day tailor-made holiday. I was excited to have the opportunity to explore this teardrop-shaped haven that weaves together a myriad of wonders from pristine beaches and sprawling tea plantations to rich cultural tapestries and vibrant wildlife.
When I landed in Sri Lanka I was welcomed with a dazzling performance by large group of traditional dancers and drummers playing a hypnotic beat. I started my adventure in the city of Colombo. Steeped in heritage, this buzzing capital, stands tall with soaring skyscrapers against the contrast of British and Cutch colonial architecture. Despite its small size just 37.31 km² Colombo offers a varying selection of experience ranging from taking a tuktuk ride, a visit to Pettah market and eating Kottu to playing a round of golf and having high tea at one of the colonial style hotels overlooking the Indian Ocean.
My next stop was the sacred city and UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura where I stayed at the luxurious hotel Ula Ulagalla. Nestled in a sprawling 58-acre lush green garden with a 150-year-old mansion at its centre, rich with cultural heritage and historical significance. Set amongst the natural habitat, there are 25 villas each with their own private pools, that have been meticulously designed to maintain the ecological balance of the surroundings.
While in Anuradhapura I visited the majestic archaeological sites and many Stupas where the local people were bringing their offerings of colourful flowers, food and fragrance during a Buddhist festival and climbed Sigiriya rock at sunrise. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient palace ruins on top of a massive 200-meter-high rock surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. The views from the top were amazing!
The next destination on my Sri Lanka itinerary was the cool central highlands with its lush green tea plantations which are punctuated by vibrant sari-clad pickers, creating a captivating landscape. This region offers soft adventure and a colonial-era railway, with Nuwara Eliya, boasting misty heights, plunging valleys, thundering waterfalls, and verdant tea fields.
For this part of my journey I was lucky enough to stay at the Ceylon Tea Trails which recently featured on the BBC series, ‘Amazing Hotels, Life Beyond The Lobby’. The restored colonial-era bungalows provide a glimpse into life gone by, making that cup of tea taste even more delightful.
I can honestly say that this is one of the most amazing places I’ve ever stayed! Ceylon Tea Trails comprises five restored historic tea planter bungalows, perched at an altitude of 1250 metres in Sri Lanka’s panoramic Ceylon tea region. Complete with period furnishings, gracious butler service, and gourmet cuisine, the non-hotel atmosphere has made Tea Trails the gold standard for luxury in Sri Lanka.From the moment I arrived the warm and attentive staff welcomed me into this home away from home retreat which was the ideal setting to pause, connect with nature and unwind while observing life on a working tea estate.
I got to explore the lush tea fields and visited a century old factory for a gentle education in the art of Ceylon tea.
My next stop was Yala National Park via Ella which is a great destination for soft adventurers which unfolds with ziplining, trekking, hiking, and the scenic delights of Little Adams Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.
My trip down to the south east of Sri Lanka saw me arriving at Uga Chena Huts, set in a unique location bordering the Yala National Park, the Indian Ocean and a natural watering hole. This resort has been designed with its surrounding tropical jungles in mind.
The next day started with an early wakeup call where I jumped into a 4x4 and taken on the most amazing game drive through Yala National Park.Under the guidance of my expert ranger, Johnny, I felt completely safe and he shared his outstanding knowledge of the national park and the wildlife that roams freely.Yala national park is a lush forest of greenery and has an abundance of wildlife and waterholes. In fact over 40 mammals and about 215 bird species can be found in Yala, but the most popular residents are the Sri Lankan elephants and we were lucky enough to get close to a beautiful herd of females with a young calf of about 5 months.Yala is also home to leopards, sloth bears, peacocks and crocodiles, wild boar, water buffaloes, crocodiles, monkeys and mongoose to name just a few.Following some downtime in my private pool before I headed off to see some other unique hotels in Yala. Before I knew it, we were back in the 4x4 for a second game drive. This time an evening experience. On our return to Uga Chena Huts I was greeted by the most amazing site. A male elephant was stood outside the restaurant eating from the rosewood trees at the resort! This literally took my breath away. I was so surprised by how quiet these beautiful animals are.Yala is a must if you come to Sri Lanka. The memories you will take away from this special place will last a lifetime.
The last stop on my Sri Lankan holiday was the historic city of Galle. Galle is another of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites; there are 8 in total. This delightful city beckons to be explored on foot with its imposing Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient mosques, churches, grand mansions, and museums. Wandering through the rambling lanes I passed by some stylish cafes, impeccably resorted hotels, art galleries and quirky boutique shops where I picked up lots of lovely souvenirs to bring home with me.
The unhurried pace of life of Sri Lanka is part of this beautiful island's allure, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in its charm. While navigating from one captivating spot to another may take a little time, in the midst of a holiday, why rush the journey?
Sri Lanka's coastline is a treasure trove, offering untouched shores, romantic escapes, lively social hubs, family-friendly sands, and is a watersports enthusiast playground; While the vibrant cities, tea plantations, national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites await to be discovered with rich histories, ancient stories, magnificent wildlife, and unique safari opportunities. The island's breathtaking beauty and the warmth of its people are bound to resonate with your senses, perhaps even stirring a hint of emotion.
A holiday to Sri Lanka offers unforgettable experiences that everyone can enjoy.
For further details or to plan a tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka, please contact Fiona Field at Travel Designed.
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