Our Guide to Sri Lanka

The best region for: Ancient history & culture

The Cultural Triangle is unmissable for those interested in history, heritage, and striking landscapes. Home to ancient capitals, majestic rock fortresses, and sacred temples, this region tells the story of Sri Lanka’s rich past. Between exploring Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla, visitors can unwind in luxurious boutique hotels, surrounded by jungle, lakes, and rice fields. 

Our top recommendations:

1. Discover the ancient city of Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Rising nearly 200 metre, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views across the Cultural Triangle. Climb to the summit to admire the frescoes of the “Heavenly Maidens” and the ruins of King Kashyapa’s palace, surrounded by landscaped water gardens and moats.
2. Step back in time at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a remarkable complex that houses over 150 statues of the Buddha and intricate murals that span centuries. For the best experience, arrive early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views across the plains, but be prepared to climb quite a few steps.
3. Experience a paddy farm, travelling beyond the tourist trail for an insight into rural village life. Learn how the local community grow and harvest their produce, utilise the rice paddy fields and use the ingredients to make ayurvedic ailments.

Our travel tip:

Make sure to spend a few days in the area.  Even those of you who aren't history buffs will find the area's sites impressive. With the chance to explore paddy fields, try your hand at Sri Lankan cooking, and visit local villages, there is plenty to explore. 

Our recommended hotels:

1. Uga Ulagalla: A luxurious eco-retreat with private villas and plunge pools set amid tranquil paddy fields that offer heritage charm and welcoming service.
2. Water Garden Sigiriya: Offering stunning views of Sigiriya Rock, spacious villas, and a serene spa, Water Garden Sigiriya is a lovely boutique property.
3. Jetwing Vil Uyana: Surrounded by wetlands, individual dwellings offer spacious and stylish minimalist accommodation surrounded by serene waterways and tall grasses ensuring ultimate privacy.

If you do one thing...

Climb Pidurangala Rock at sunrise to see impressive, panoramic views of Sigiriya Rock and beyond.

The best region for: Natural beauty and adventure

Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is a world away from the coast, where cool, misty slopes are cloaked by manicured tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming colonial towns. Renowned train journeys travel along iconic arched bridges, while boutique tea bungalows and luxury estates offer the chance to unwind surrounded by serene nature. It’s the ideal region to slow down. 

Our top recommendations: 

1. Enjoy an iconic train journey, and travel from Kandy to Ella. The slow and winding route passes through idyllic landscapes and over the famous Nine Arches Bridge.  
2. Learn about the Sri Lankan tea industry, which dates back to the 1860s. Visit one of the working tea factories and enjoy a tasting with an experienced Tea Master.
3. Explore on foot with a guided hike along one section of the Pekoe Trail. The multi-stage 300km hike crosses through the hill country and is broken down into 22 manageable stages.

Our travel tip:

Kandy is a major city and is often used as a base for exploring the area.  It can be particularly busy, so we would recommend basing yourself slightly outside the city, and spending a day or two exploring with a guide before travelling further into the hills. 

Our recommended hotels:

1. W15 Hanthana: A restored historic home, W15 Hanthana is set slightly outside Kandy’s bustling centre. It blends colonial charm with modern luxury finishes, gourmet dining, and warm Sri Lankan hospitality.
2. Ceylon Tea Trails: Set amid rolling hills, Ceylon Tea Trails is a collection of restored planter’s bungalows offering timeless elegance and impeccable service. With scenic walks, tea factory tours, high tea, and panoramic views, it’s the epitome of Hill Country luxury.
3. Camellia Hills: Perched above Castlereagh Reservoir, Camellia Hills offers boutique comfort with just a handful of rooms, personalised service, and tranquil surroundings. It’s perfect for a peaceful, indulgent escape.

If you do one thing...

Try a food tour in Kandy. Sri Lankan cuisine is popular for a reason, with bold flavours, fragrant spices and a variety of unique dishes. With the help of a local guide, enjoy the varied street food and visit a restaurants for a taste Sri Lanka’s favourite dishes.

The best region for: Independent exploration

Galle and its surrounds offer the perfect blend of history, charm, and coastal beauty. The cobbled streets of Galle Fort are lined with boutiques, art galleries, and chic cafés, while the nearby coastline reveals quiet coves and elegant boutique hotels. It’s an ideal spot to soak up Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage while enjoying the laid-back beachfront setting.

Our top recommendations:

1. Explore Galle Fort with a local guide. Local guides will bring the fort’s history alive, with tales of colonial influence and historical trade routes.
2. Visit Lunuganga, the country estate of the famed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The estate has been carefully preserved as a living museum, with the gardens, interiors and buildings as Bawa designed.
3. Visit a cinnamon plantation, set not far from Galle, and try two of Sri Lanka’s traditional drinks. Learn about the spice’s production and try a traditional cinnamon tea, before also trying a fermented Jaggery Palm toddy.

Our travel tip:

For those of you who love being able to walk out of a hotel and explore by yourselves, stay within the Galle Fort walls. There are a number of excellent, boutique properties to stay at, and they ensure you can spend your days exploring the winding alleys, cafes and shops

Our recommended hotels:

1. Amangalla: Steeped in history within the walls of Galle Fort, Amangalla exudes timeless colonial elegance. With grand verandas, antique furnishings, and serene gardens, it offers refined luxury and impeccable service, regularly featuring on lists of the world’s finest hotels.
2. Fort Bazaar: A chic boutique hotel in the heart of Galle Fort, Fort Bazaar blends contemporary style with Moorish-inspired design. Its vibrant courtyard, elegant rooms, and popular restaurant create a relaxed yet stylish stay.
3. Haritha Villas: Set a short distance inland from the beaches of Hikkaduwa, Haritha Villas is the perfect place to relax, with a mix of contemporary villas and heritage suites. Offering private pool villas, personalised butler service, and holistic spa experiences, in a boutique setting.

If you do one thing...

Catch a cricket match at Galle Cricket Ground, it is Sri Lanka’s most popular sport after all! We doubt you will be able to find a more picturesque setting for a stadium, with the Indian Ocean on two sides.

The best region for: Relaxation & marine life

Sri Lanka’s South Coast is where golden beaches meet vibrant coastal life. Stretching from Bentota to Tangalle, this region is known for its palm-fringed shores, surf-friendly waves, and luxurious beachfront resorts. Whether you’re watching stilt fishermen, spotting turtles, or dining on fresh seafood by the ocean, the south offers the quintessential tropical getaway.

Our top recommendations: 

1. Go whale watching along the coast. Look out for blue whales and sperm whales, as well as frolicking dolphins, all of which can be spotted around the coast. The best time to spot the whales is between November and April.
2. Visit local craft villages along the south coast, where you will find traditional lace and pottery artisans and wood carvers.

Our travel tip:

The sea can be quite choppy during the rainy season thanks to stronger winds and heavy rainfall, making it dangerous to swim. Travel between November and April for calm seas.

Our recommended hotels:

1. KK Beach: Overlooking the Indian Ocean, KK Beach is a stylish, contemporary beachfront boutique hotel. With elegant suites, a beachfront pool, and a curated collection of modern art, it’s perfect for those looking to relax along the coastline.
2. Tekanda Lodge: Tucked away in the hills, Tekanda Lodge is surrounded by lush tropical forest, tea gardens and natural beauty. It offers an intimate, stylish, off-the-beaten-path stay with incredibly welcoming service.
3. Cape Weligama: Perched dramatically above the ocean on Sri Lanka’s southern cliffs, Cape Weligama is a luxurious resort. Its spacious villas and pools overlook sweeping sea views, while world-class dining and warm hospitality make it one of the island’s most renowned luxury stays.

If you do one thing…

Learn to surf! The south coast is perfect for all levels of experience, with plenty of surf schools on hand to offer lessons to beginners, and spots that range from gentle, soft waves to more challenging a-frames. 

The best region for: Authentic experiences 

The East Coast is Sri Lanka’s hidden gem, a sun-drenched paradise of long, untouched beaches and wildlife-filled national parks. From the calm, shallow bays of Passikudah and Trincomalee on the coast, to the wild beauty of Gal Oya National Park and Yala National Park where you can experience some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife encounters, the East Coast is well worth a visit.

Our top recommendations:

1. Enjoy a wildlife safari in Yala National Park or Gal Oya National Park. The parks are open to all visitors, so you can visit for a day trip with a guide, or stay nearby and enjoy multiple game drives. 
2. Make the most of the clear, turquoise waters and snorkel off the coast near Pasikudah. With shallow, calm sea and healthy coral, it is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. 

Our travel tip:

A wildlife safari in Sri Lanka is not the same as an African safari, so try not to compare the two. The national parks are home to elusive leopards, as well as diverse birdlife, sloth bears and elephants.

Our recommended hotels:

1. Uga Bay: Set on the golden shores of Pasikudah, Uga Bay is a beachfront hotel with sweeping ocean views. With its infinity pool, soothing spa, and focus on laid-back luxury, it’s ideal for those looking to relax.
2. Uga Chena Huts: Nestled between the jungle and the ocean near Yala National Park, Uga Chena Huts combines wilderness adventure with five-star indulgence. Each thatched hut features a private plunge pool, while daily game drives and fine dining under the stars make it a truly unforgettable stay.
3. Wild Coast Tented Lodge: Seamlessly blending into the rugged landscape bordering Yala National Park, Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers a blend of wilderness and luxury. Its unique, cocoon-shaped tents, gourmet cuisine, and immersive wildlife experiences are the epitome of safari chic in Sri Lanka.

If you do one thing…

Head to the coastline for the ultimate escape. As you head further up the east coast you will find almost deserted stretches of beaches, perfect for the quiet, relaxing days at the end of your Sri Lankan adventure.

Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable escape for culture enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers. Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, wander through the ancient cities of the Cultural Triangle, and spot elephants and leopards in Yala National Park. For a change of pace, ride the scenic train through misty tea-covered hills, or unwind on the island’s golden southern and eastern beaches. Every corner of Sri Lanka offers breathtaking beauty and a deep sense of heritage.

Love To Explore will craft your perfect Sri Lankan journey, drawing on our first-hand knowledge and passion for the island. Start planning your dream trip to Sri Lanka today and fall in love with the island, just as we did.