A jewel in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a land of remarkable diversity and captivating contrasts. From ancient cities steeped in history to vibrant religious festivals, colonial architecture, lush tea plantations, and idyllic beaches, this island nation offers a rich tapestry of experiences. What makes Sri Lanka truly unforgettable is its cultures, religions, and traditions, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're exploring sacred temples, sipping tea in the highlands, or unwinding on golden shores, Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable journey of discovery.
Cave Temples: Immerse yourself in the spiritual realm by visiting Sri Lanka’s remarkable Cave Temples. Comprised of five unique chambers with over 150 intricately carved Buddha statues and stunning murals, these sacred spaces date back more than 2,000 years. Over time, successive kings have enriched the artistry, resulting in an immersive experience of religious devotion and historical legacy.
Galle: On Sri Lanka’s picturesque southern coast lies Galle, a charming UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Best explored on foot, its cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, elegant churches, boutique galleries, and fascinating museums. With its laid-back coastal charm and rich history, Galle is a dream for culture lovers and romantics alike.
Hatton: Nestled in the heart of "tea country," Hatton is renowned for its enchanting tea trails. Accessible by train, the journey to Hatton is a rewarding experience in itself. Delve into the pristine tea trails, learn about the art of tea production, and soak in the unspoiled beauty of this breathtaking region.
Sigiriya: Uncover the ancient marvel of Sigiriya, an extraordinary rock fortress rising 200 metres above the forest floor. Explore beautifully preserved water gardens, vivid frescoes, the storied mirror wall, and the iconic Lion Rock. A climb to the summit rewards you with panoramic views and a sense of wonder that lingers long after your descent.
Yala National Park: Located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is a cherished destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Renowned for its leopard population, Yala is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Embark on thrilling game drives as you journey through the park's diverse landscapes, encompassing forests, grasslands, and lagoons.
Sri Lanka’s climate is remarkably diverse for its size, influenced by two distinct monsoon seasons. This unique pattern means you can often find sunny weather in at least one region year-round.
Low Season (May - August): This season is characterised by more favorable weather in the North and East regions. However, the Yala monsoon season brings rain to the south and west coasts, as well as the Hill Country.
Shoulder Season (April and September to November): These months offer a balanced mix of good weather across the country. It's an excellent time for travel, although it's worth noting that mid-April sees an increase in demand for transport due to New Year's celebrations.
High Season (December - March): This period is the busiest and driest in Sri Lanka. It's the ideal time to explore the Hill Country and the beautiful beaches along the west and south coasts. With high demand for accommodations, prices tend to peak during this season. The Maha monsoon season (October to January) brings wet conditions to the East, North, and Ancient Cities.
Currency: The Sri Lankan currency is the rupee (LKR)
Language: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages. English is widely spoken, especially in tourism and hospitality.
Why we love it: Sri Lanka is breathtakingly beautiful, culturally rich, and still relatively uncrowded and affordable. Its size means you can visit Anuradhapura’s ancient sacred tree in the morning, then witness a wild elephant gathering in Minneriya by afternoon. Every day can be a tapestry of golden beaches, 2,000-year-old temples, charming villages, and vibrant birdlife.
Weather: Sri Lanka enjoys warm temperatures year-round, with regional variations influenced by two monsoon seasons. The best time to visit the west and south coasts, as well as the Hill Country, is from December to March. For the east coast, April to September offers the most favourable weather. Coastal areas typically range from 26–30°C, while temperatures drop in the highlands—averaging 18–22°C in Kandy and 14–17°C in Nuwara Eliya. Evenings in the hills can be surprisingly cool.
Social customs: Sri Lankans are warm and courteous, and place great importance on etiquette and national pride. Public displays of affection are generally discouraged, and it’s customary to use your right hand for greetings and dining. When visiting temples, dress modestly—remove shoes and hats, and cover shoulders and legs. In some Hindu temples, men may need to remove shirts, and women may not be permitted in certain areas. Avoid posing for photos with your back to a Buddha image, as this is seen as disrespectful.
