Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is a destination full of stunning nature, rich history, and cultural treasures. This island offers unique experiences, from wildlife watching to exploring ancient temples. Here’s inspiration for your trip to the magical places of Sri Lanka.
Minneriya: Elephant Gathering
From now until early September, you can witness the unique gathering of over 300 wild elephants at the Minneriya Reservoir. These elephants come from the entire northern province of Sri Lanka seeking water and fresh grass during the dry months. The best time to observe them is in the evening when they come to the reservoir to eat, drink, and play.
Itinerary Inspiration
Colombo
Start your adventure in Colombo, staying at the iconic colonial hotel Galle Face. The city offers many interesting places to visit, including the Gangaramaya Temple, a living museum with artifacts from around the world. A city tour will show you the best of Colombo, from historical landmarks to modern cultural hotspots.
Kandy
Next, visit Kandy, known for its rich cultural heritage. Visit the famous Temple of the Tooth, bustling markets, and the Royal Botanical Garden Peradeniya. Kandy is also home to one of the oldest and most famous festivals in Asia – Kandy Esala Perahera, a festival that dates back to the 3rd century BCE, celebrating Buddhist relics and praying for rain.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya offers many opportunities for adventurers. Visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple or explore the Ritigala Forest Reserve with a naturalist. Another attraction is climbing Ritigala Mountain and visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also a UNESCO site. For history lovers, there’s the medieval city of Polonnaruwa.
Wilpattu
Wilpattu is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Here you can experience authentic safari adventures searching for elusive leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants, and many other exciting animals. Morning and afternoon half-day safaris offer a unique and peaceful wilderness experience.
Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya is a paradise for water sports lovers. With 14 lagoons, it offers some of the best kitesurfing conditions in Sri Lanka. Besides, you can snorkel on the largest coral reef in the country, watch dolphins and whales, or enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding. The kitesurfing season runs from May to September.
Recent Trips
We recently visited Kalpitiya and Wilpattu, exploring new accommodation options and experiencing unforgettable safaris. New discoveries include the boutique hotel Koddu Kalpitiya and the rustic Mud House, offering a unique experience in the heart of the jungle. This trip provided much inspiration, perfect for visitors seeking authentic experiences in Sri Lanka.
Rajagala Monastery
Rajagala is one of the least known but fascinating archaeological sites in Sri Lanka. This site in the east of the island covers 1600 acres and offers breathtaking ruins of ancient temples and water systems. For history and adventure lovers, exploring the Rajagala Monastery is an unforgettable experience. Climbing to the top of the mountain offers stunning views and the chance to discover ancient monuments hidden under layers of time.
Sri Lanka offers countless adventures and opportunities for exploration. Come and experience the best this amazing island has to offer.