When the early Arab traders named Sri Lanka Serendib, it became the etymological root of the word ‘serendipity’. And if it is serendipitous encounters that you are after, look no further. The verdant teardrop island in the Indian Ocean is a treasure trove of wild, ancient, cultural and mystic sites. Among those are the dramatic rocks rising above the landscapes. With views, palaces and monasteries at their summits, you must ascend to believe the beauty. So, which rock should you be climbing? We are giving you our take on three of the most singular rocks, worth every step to the top. Sigiriya R ..read more

Sri Lanka’s rail rides rival some of Asia’s best. The emerald landscape of the mountainous heart of the island offers endless scenery. Tea gardens, waterfalls, deep gorges, steep ravines, craggy hills, misty mountain tops, cloud forests, riverine valleys and shrines stretch along the way. It is a procession of moving visuals, better admired from a train window. You will not glance away even for a minute. So, which rail journeys are to look forward to in Sri Lanka? Let’s explore two of the most beautiful across the hill country. Nanu Oya to Ella Nanu Oya is a quaint village in the Central Hills ..read more

“Normality is a paved road: It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.” – Vincent van Gogh.  There’s a whole hidden Sri Lanka beyond the spotlight-stealing attractions. While Sigiriya, Galle, Colombo and Anuradhapura top the list, the less-visited destinations flourish as best-kept secrets. Whether you are an audacious traveller, a solo trekker, or love winging it, off-the-beaten-path travel on the island is full of surprises. From northern islands to the Tea Country you have never heard of, traverse the territories only known to the intrepid traveller. So, how do you prepare fo ..read more

From the mighty blue ocean to the dry plains swathed in thick jungles, from deep in the rainforest to high montane cloud forests, biodiversity-rich Sri Lanka is a top wilderness destination. Embellished by rivers, lakes, mountains, hills, waterfalls and mangrove swamps, the landscape is a tapestry of untamed beauty. Whether you are mesmerised by the majestic Asian elephant bathing in a lake, eager to spot an elusive leopard basking on a tree or witness the ostentatious feathery display of a colourful peacock, the island nation does not disappoint. So, with a gamut of wild experiences awaiting ..read more

Whether it is a commanding view of the vast turquoise Indian Ocean or the enveloping mountains and hills, the elevated experience of a clifftop hotel is unparalleled. They are also spectacular vantage points when you want the scenery to draw out and immerse you in it. Hills cloaked in tea plantations, mountains covered in misty cloud forests and the ocean rolling and dancing beneath, some retreats blur the boundary between Earth and sky. So, where in Sri Lanka can you find the summits that stun in absolute luxury? Pointe Sud Mirissa by Eden Villa This Palladian-style villa is only metres away ..read more

Sri Lanka was once the crown jewel of the spice trade. Its cloves, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon tantalised the world. Yet, Sri Lanka’s culinary traditions remained a spicy secret, revealing only to those who came to find it. Today, Sri Lankan cuisine ranges from traditional curries to colonial fusion patisserie. The island is also one of the countries with the least meat consumption. Vegetarian isn’t an option here but a way of life for most. For those wanting to explore local vegetarian cuisine, we are taking you through our top picks for vegetarian restaurants in Sri Lanka. Hopefull ..read more

Kirana by Santani Nestled on the mesmerising shores of Bentota, along the Gold Coast in southern Sri Lanka, is Kirana Santani Villa – a retreat of tropical tranquillity and luxury. Green surroundings and wide-open ocean views create peaceful, airy and light vibes. The secluded and pristine sun-kissed beach is soothing with the gentle rustle of palm leaves. Its harmonious blend of modern interiors and traditional charm seamlessly merges with natural beauty. Rest, revive and reset here after a day of blissful coastal excursions in the south. Location Bentota, on the southwest coast, is renowned ..read more

From visa to vaccination, currency exchange to cellular connectivity, here’s all the information to prepare and enjoy your holiday in Sri Lanka. We are answering the FAQs about visiting Sri Lanka, from A to Z. Relax, immerse, indulge and pamper yourself on a stress-free holiday under the tropical sun. Visa Application: How do I apply for a visa to Sri Lanka?              Short visits to Sri Lanka that include sightseeing and holidaying require you to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is valid for 30 days. You ..read more

The island nation of Sri Lanka has a long history that winds down to prehistoric times. And this history is one of intrigue, vivacity and spectacle. Visitors to the island do not always encounter the indigenous people, nor are they familiar with their existence. Vedda or Wanniyala-aetto (in the aboriginal language) or Adivasi (in Sinhala) are considered by many to be the earliest known inhabitants of the island. Traditionally, they were forest dwellers who foraged, hunted and lived in close-knit groups in caves in the dense jungles. They have their language, history, religion and way of life ..read more

They have been around since the time of the dinosaurs, surviving multiple extinction events over 100 million years. However, human activity and climate change have caused their rapid decline, putting six of the seven sea turtle species at risk of extinction. Sea turtles are a “keystone species” fundamental to healthy marine ecosystems. They are pivotal to maintaining seagrass beds and coral reefs. Their role as prey, consumer, host, and competitor helps sustain the vital dynamics of marine ecosystems. Sri Lanka is home to five species of sea turtle – The Green Turtle, Olive Ridley, Hawksbill ..read more