Two Weeks Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka translates to "resplendent island," but even that's an understatement considering how much is packed into one island.
A lush tropical island off the southern tip of India, for a long time Sri Lanka was thought of as too far-flung to visit, but the hidden gem of Sri Lanka is overlooked no more. It is a land of stunning natural beauty whose fabled riches and strategic maritime locale have combined for a captivating history.
- 2 nights Galle Taru Villas Rampart Street
- 5 nights Tangalle Anantara Peace Haven
- 4 nights Yala National Park Chena Huts
- 4 nights Anuradhapura Ulagalla
Galle is on the south coast of the island and the highlight of the city is the Galle fort. Built by the Dutch, the fort has the distinction of being the best-preserved sea fort in South Asia. A living heritage site, this 222-acre attraction is a superb blend of architectural styles, with fortifications that resemble those in the coastal areas of Portugal.
This villa in the resplendent confines of the Galle Fort is a testament to the colonial architecture that reverberates throughout the old town. Idyllically nestled on Rampart Street with a view of the historic 17th-century walls, this is one of the few luxury boutique hotels in Galle with a private pool.
Stroll through Galle Fort with a private guide and learn about the history of this UNESCO Heritage Site. Pass through cobblestone pathways and navigate the cafes, boutiques, and charming old houses owned by generations of Galle families.
Not far from Galle in the seaside town of Hikkaduwa are a brilliant coral reef and bountiful underwater ecosystem, making it a dream for a snorkeling excursion.
Stilt Fishing is a timeless tradition that still persists on the south coast. Stop off en route to Tangalle for some excellent photo opportunities.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort sits on a rocky outcrop near the old fort town of Tangalle. A golden-hued beach fringed by coconut palms overlooks the roaring Indian Ocean.
Consistently good waves and few tourists make the beaches around Tangalle one of the best places to surf. It's ideal for beginners or intermediate surfers who want some solitary time on the water without fighting for space.
See dolphins and whales during a sunset catamaran cruise. A remarkable 27 species of whale and dolphin have been recorded in these waters, including the largest animal on the planet, the blue whale.
The most popular out of the national parks in the country and the second largest, Yala is estimated to have the highest leopard density in the world, making it a unique wildlife park for animal lovers. Home for many species of animals, the biggest being the Asian elephant, a jeep safari at the park is the best way to see them all.
Set amongst the golden dunes and the lush greenery in Yala, Uga Chena Huts blends Sri Lanka’s most celebrated features of tropical beaches and exotic wildlife.
Deluxe ‘huts’ are luxurious private cabins that offer awe-inspiring views of the surrounding wilderness and seascape.
Head out on a jeep safari to Yala National Park. Look out for sloth bears, crocodiles, wild peacocks, blue-tailed bee-eaters, and monitor lizards. Look closely in the trees for the elusive leopards.
Learn to cook while at Chena Huts through an interactive cooking demo with a Sri Lankan chef to learn how to prepare a local favorite: string hoppers.
Take a guided tour by tuk-tuk to Anuradhapura with a local guide, a sacred city established around a cutting from the Buddha's fig tree. Hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the splendid site with its palaces, monasteries, and monuments is now accessible once again. Kids will want to look out for the troops of monkeys that roam the grounds.
This boutique hotel offers you a unique experience of luxury amidst a natural, remote, and uninhabited environment. Nestled in a sprawling 58-acre lush green garden with a 150-year-old mansion at its center, the Ulagalla is rich with cultural heritage and historical significance.
Take a guided tour today to see two of Sri Lanka's most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock of Sri Lanka, is an ancient fortress and one of the most popular sites in Sri Lanka. The huge rock juts out from the green tropical forest and can be seen from miles around.
Minneriya National Park is famous for its population of wild elephants, which you'll get to see safari-style from an open-top jeep.
Check out of your hotel this morning and enjoy some touring as you head back to Colombo with your guide.
Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. It's been a significant pilgrimage site for over 2,000 years.
Origin invests in making the world a better place. Origin will offset the fuel you will use during the trip. On top of that, we will offset an extra 10% to make your trip a carbon-positive experience.
Currently, we support Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.
Chat with an Origin curator today for your own personally tailored itinerary to get the most out of your trip to Sri Lanka.
Property photos courtesy of Taru Villas Rampart Street, Anantara Peace Haven, Chena Huts, and Ulagalla.
All other photos courtesy of Unsplash.