Wildlife in Sri Lanka
Some of the wildlife that can be spotted on a Sri Lanka holiday...
Some of the wildlife that can be spotted on a Sri Lanka holiday...
The teardrop island is particularly proud of its natural bounty, and rightly so. For thousands of years, vast swathes of land have been protected by Sri Lankan royalty, preserved as sanctuaries for nature to thrive and even today, countless areas of protected land exist on the island. Despite its small size, its diverse landscapes, contrasting seasons, unique climate and incredible biodiversity confirm it as an exceptional place for wildlife enthusiasts to enjoy year-round.
Whether you’re a culture vulture keen to explore the impressive temples and UNESCO sites of the Cultural Triangle, a wildlife fanatic who hopes to spot the elusive leopard in Yala National Park, or a fervent foodie whose mouth waters at the tantalizing aromas of cardamom and coriander, here's our pick of the top Sri Lankan experiences that are not to be missed...
Here’s a guide to our favourite local street-food delicacies to sample during your stay…
Mirissa is the gateway to Dondra Point. This is one of the best spots to witness the whale migrations in Sri Lanka from the Bay of Bengal - Sri Lanka’s southern sea is calm offering up the perfect conditions.
On a recent trip to Sri Lanka, Ellis was bowled over by this unique and calm country which is worlds apart from nearby India. From the fascinating culture of the north, to the scenic rolling hills of Tea Country and the beautiful golden beaches on the coast, there is no end to the country's beauty.
In Sri Lanka, festivals are an integral part of life and culture; with a population composed of many races and religions and given its long, ancient history – they are never short of celebrations. Here are a few of the significant festivals:
Tea is part of Sri Lanka’s unique cultural heritage and some of the world’s finest teas are produced here. Due to Sri Lanka’s diverse climate each tea variety is uniquely different. The country is particularly famous for Ceylon tea, recognised over the world for its high quality and distinct aroma (crisp and citrus).
The best of Sri Lanka and The Maldives in this luxurious journey that takes in Sri Lanka's ancient cities and tea plantations before flying off to one of the finest islands in The Maldives. It combines culture with some of the world's finest beaches.
Spotting the Big Five in Africa is often hailed as the holy grail of wildlife holidays, but plenty of other places around the world offer animal sightings impressive enough to rival Africa's, and Sri Lanka is certainly one of them. Here, we introduce you to Sri Lanka's own Big Five and give you all the information you need to go in search of these wild beasts...
Here’s a guide to our favourite things to do in Galle…
To start planning your tailor-made holiday, call us on (646) 934-8916
Aliya Resort and Spa is set amidst lush tropical foliage, far away from the busy city. The hotel is situated just opposite Sigiriya Rock, an ancient rock fortress which is an archaeological site. According to ancient Sri Lankan tradition, King Kasyapa built his palace on top of this rock in the 5th century AD.
The resort boasts three restaurants and a coffee shop and bar. The chefs at Aliya mainly prepare genuine local Sri Lankan food, but international cuisine is also available. There is a large outdoor swimming pool, a gym, a badminton court and a spa offering a wide range of holistic Ayurvedic treatments. The hotel also provides complementary meditation and yoga sessions on a daily basis.
The accommodation at Aliya Resort is designed in a minimalist style and the rooms are free of clutter and ornaments. Guests have a choice of Deluxe rooms or Wooden Chalets. The Wooden Chalets are perfect for a family wanting an outdoor adventure with a touch of luxury and extra space than offered in the Deluxe Rooms. Suites with a private pool, sauna and home theatre system are also available for those seeking pure indulgence.
The resort’s location in the centre of Cultural Triangle means that there is plenty to do and see. Whether you visit the fortress, the Minneriya National Park to see wild elephants or one of the many archaeological ruins in the area, your trip will be a culture-filled delight.
Sri Lanka is considered a sunny year round destination; there is always somewhere experiencing good weather on the island. However, there are huge regional differences. The Southwest ‘Yala’ Monsoons brings rain to the west and southwest coast, as well as the hill country, from April/May to September. During this time the north and east coasts are good. The northeast ‘Mahe’ monsoon is less extreme and brings rain to the east and north during October and November. This monsoon can bring a bit of rain to the south as well. Put simply; head to the south, central, hill country and western areas between December and March and ideally head to the north and eastern areas between April and September. We can never guarantee good weather but believe this is a good guide to follow.
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
read moreSigiriya, Sri Lanka
read moreWilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka
read moreAnuradhapura, Sri Lanka
read moreAnuradhapura, Sri Lanka
read morePolonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
read moreDambulla, Sri Lanka
read moreMinniriya National Park, Sri Lanka
read moreKekirawa, Sri Lanka
read moreCultural Triangle, Sri Lanka
read moreDambulla, Sri Lanka
read moreAnuradhapura, Sri Lanka
read moreExplore the immaculately preserved remnants of Buddhism’s second city. Polonnaruwa is grouped in clumps between enticing forests so that you can walk and cycle your way around giant Buddhas and impressive temples that are over 1,000 years old.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 'fortress in the sky' is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. This 370-meter-high monument has 1,202 steps, a 5th century palace and 2 giant stone lion paws, as well as spectacular views.
Wilpattu is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest national parks, with an area of over 130,000 hectares. Explore by jeep, driving past natural lakes, scrubland and dense jungle, possibly spotting sloth bear, leopard and wild elephant.
Mihintale is an important landmark in Buddhist culture. Climb 1,840 steps in the morning, surrounded by the sights and sounds of traders and pilgrims, before heading to Anuradhapura for a guided tour.
Dating from the sixth century BC and one of Buddhism's holiest sites. A 2,200 year old tree, grown from a cutting of the branch beneath which Buddha found Enlightenment is a highlight. Ancient hospitals and baths add a sense of normality to it all.
Enjoy an easy ride through the sights and enchanting ruins of UNESCO protected Polonnaruwa, a highlight of the cultural triangle. It was first declared a capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated Chola invaders in 1070 to reunite the country.
The rich history of the huge rock temples involves Indian invaders being driven away through the strength of meditation in the first century BC. Its just as exciting today as you are guided through five intricately carved caves past giant stone statues.
This afternoon experience takes you to Minneriya National Park, home to an enormous population of elephants. Enjoy a game drive with an experienced naturalist.
An architectural marvel of the ancient Sinhalese, the Aukana Buddha statue stands at an impressive 39 feet tall. Visit the statue today alongside a visit to the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
Not far from Anuradhapura, Ritigala is a unique nature reserve and an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st century. Travel through tropical forest filled with monkeys, birds and butterflies until you reach the monastery.
Achieve inner peace whilst listening to tales and teachings of Buddhism from one of the resident temple monks. Afterwards, enjoy ‘Dhamma’, 30 minutes of discussion, practices and customs.
Explore the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura on a bicycle, riding past highlights such as stupas, bathing tanks, ancient hospitals, and allegedly the oldest tree in the world.
This unique itinerary combines Sri Lanka's glorious coast along Kalptiya, the incredible UNESCO protected ancient cities in the 'Cultural Triangle' with dazzling and untouched east coast beaches. Perfect for those wanting to combine culture with coast.
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Best for: Family,Highlights,Honeymoon,Luxury,Walking & Trekking,Wildlife
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Best for: Culture & history,Honeymoon
Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Best for: Hideaway,Honeymoon,Off the beaten track,Spectacular scenery
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Best for: Culture & history,Wildlife,Highlights,Honeymoon,Riding,Walking & Trekking