There is only one Sri Lanka. This teardrop island off the south of the mighty subcontinent really packs a punch. But which of its many marvels should make it on to your must-see list?
TRAINlOURNEY THROUGH TEA COUNTRY
The train journey between Kandy and Ella is arguably one of the world's most scenic offering spectacular views from grand 19th Century bridges that stitch together verdan hill country and rolling, mist-shrouded tea plantations. Aside from the views it also offers a great window into Sri Lankan life.
HOTAIR BALLOON OVER THE CULTURAL TRIANGLE
Rise with the sun and drift over Sri Lanka's countryside and cuitural icons on an unforgettable 1 hour hot air balloon flight in one of the country's most beautiful and historically significant regions. Spot elephants roaming below, see the rock fortress of Siairiva looming in the distance and savour a post flight qlass of champagne.
GALLE FORT PHOTOGRAPHY
A great opportunity to learn more about this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site, hone your photography skills and capture some memorable moments along the way. Take to the historic cobbled streets in the company of a local photographer to capture both historic monuments and local life on this insightful tour.
COLOMBO FOODIE WALKING TOUR
A fascinating and delicious introduction to Sri Lankan cuisine. Over three hours you'll wandy among famous eateries in the capital, learning the history of Sri Lanka and its culinary influences along the way, whilst sampling many of the unique flavours and dishes, ranging from authentic $ri Lankan to a fusion of Indian-Malay, Dutch and Portuguese.
HORTON PLAINS HIKE
Sat on Sri Lanka's highest plateau, Horton Plains NP offers astounding variety of scenery from misty rnountains to grasslands, marshes to ice cold streams, lakes and waterfalls plus an abundant wildlife including sambar deer, 'bear' monkeys, barking deer and wild boar. On this walk you'll pay a visit to the beautiful 'Bridal Veil' Baker's Falls and stop at the dramatic 'Worlds End' escarpment for astounding views.
MONKEY MAGIC
Learn more about the three species of monkey native to Sri Lanka: the grey langur, the toque macaaue and the Purple-faced langur. Within th walls of the ruined city of Polonnaruwa, watch monkeys foraging far their first meal of the day as staff explain troop hierarchy and behaviour, as well as issues surrounding primate conservation.
GIANT'S LOOP EASTWHALE WATCHING CRUISE
Head out from Dutch Bay, Trincomalee to spend the morning relaxing on the sun deck or trampoline net of your catamaran while the crew scan the waters. Depending on the season you can look forward to sightings of spinner dolphins, sperm whales and even the mighty blue whale. Before returning to shore you'll also anchor for a few hours near Koneswaram Temple where you can swim and snorkel before enjoying a delicious lunch.