TRAVEL TO SRI LANKA

There are some experiences that consistently rank among travellers’ favourite memories of Sri Lanka – and for good reason.

The train journey between Kandy and Ella is one of them. The route winds through lush valleys, mist-covered mountains and endless tea plantations. With the windows open and the scenery rolling by, you’ll get a unique glimpse into life on the island. Many consider it one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Once you arrive in Ella, the adventure continues on foot. Little Adam’s Peak is a relatively short hike with stunning views, while Ella Rock offers a more challenging trek. Both are well worth the effort.

Another iconic stop is Sigiriya Rock. Rising dramatically above the surrounding jungle, this ancient rock fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s most recognisable landmarks. The climb to the top takes around an hour, and the views across central Sri Lanka are spectacular.

If you're interested in culture and history, make time for Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. You can also combine this with visits to Dambulla Cave Temple and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where centuries-old ruins remain scattered among the trees.

For a more local perspective, spend some time exploring markets, roadside eateries and smaller villages away from the main tourist hotspots.

Beaches, surfing & safaris

Sri Lanka is a destination where you can fill every day with activities – or simply slow down and take it all in.

On the east coast, Arugam Bay has become one of Asia’s most popular surf destinations. Travellers from around the world come here for the waves, the relaxed atmosphere and the vibrant beach-town lifestyle. Many of our travellers combine surfing with yoga sessions - the perfect combination if you want to slow down, recharge and embrace Sri Lanka's laid-back coastal vibe.

If you prefer exploring beneath the surface, snorkelling with sea turtles near Hikkaduwa is a memorable experience. Mirissa, meanwhile, is one of the best places in the country for whale watching, with opportunities to spot blue whales and sperm whales depending on the season.

Many visitors stick to the best-known destinations, but one of Sri Lanka’s greatest strengths is how easy it is to venture off the beaten track. It might be a quiet beach with hardly another traveller in sight, a family-run tea plantation in the hills or a small local restaurant serving homemade curry.

These are often the moments that transform a good holiday into a truly unforgettable journey.

Sri Lanka can be visited year-round, but the weather varies depending on which part of the country you plan to explore.

If you're travelling to the south and west coasts, as well as the highland regions around Ella, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, the best conditions are typically between December and April, when the weather is generally dry and sunny.

If your plans include the east coast, including destinations such as Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, May to September is usually the ideal period.

One of the advantages of travelling in Sri Lanka is that the monsoon seasons affect different parts of the island at different times. As a result, there is almost always a region enjoying favourable weather conditions, regardless of when you visit.