Sri Lanka luxury holiday itinerary
Our experienced travel specialist, Antony recently went on the trip of a lifetime to Sri Lanka for three weeks. Here is his return interview, including recommendations on the best things to do and where to go!
How long to stay in Sri Lanka
I would recommend staying in Sri Lanka for around 10 nights to be able to experience it to its fullest. There is so much to see and do, so any less and you may not be able to do everything.
Best places to see in Sri Lanka?
If I had to choose only four key places to see, I’d definitely recommend The Cultural Triangle, the Tea Country, Galle and Yala National Park.
Train journey in Sri Lanka
Some people ask the question, ‘to train or not to train?’…in my opinion you can’t not train! Although your time spent on the train is eight hours, time flies as there is so much to take in. The journey starts in Kandy and ends in Badulla (Ella). On the way you will pass dramatic sceneries and can even sit with your feet dangling out the train to really embrace it. It is a popular photo opportunity to kiss outside the train door when passing over the Nine Arch Bridge, very Instagrammable!
Best view in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is breath-taking everywhere you look but the best view for me was from the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Food in Sri Lanka
Traditional Sri Lankan hoppers for breakfast!
Best wildlife experience in Sri Lanka
Oh definitely the Safari in Yala National Park, it was truly amazing!
Combining Sri Lanka with somewhere else
I mean, Sri Lanka and the Maldives is the ultimate combination, but the beaches in Sri Lanka are stunning, so for those who don’t want to catch a flight (or two) to get to a Maldivian beach, stick with what’s on your doorstep. Water babies should move on to the Maldives though as a lot of the beaches’ waters in Sri Lanka are too tidal to swim in.
Surprising experience in Sri Lanka
Peacocks! They’re everywhere; roaming your resort, the local rice paddies and even up in the trees. There something so special about hearing their calls in the distance whilst watching the sunset with an ice-cold Lion beer.
Best time to travel to Sri Lanka
December through to mid-April is the peak season across the country. If you’re looking for a summer holiday, the east coast is basking in sunshine from May through to September.
How to get to Sri Lanka
There are daily flights from Heathrow direct to Colombo with Sri Lankan Airlines, but you can fly indirectly with Emirates, Qatar and Etihad for those who prefer to break up the journey and stretch their legs. I wasn’t blown away with the inflight entertainment with Sri Lankan Airlines, so maybe download some movies to your phone or tablet in advance.
Stand out moments in Sri Lanka
Galloping through the jungle on horseback along with my first ever safari in Yala National park and seeing my first leopard!
Family holidays to Sri Lanka
Absolutely! I wouldn’t give an age-cap. My best friends climbed Sigiriya with their one year old strapped to them! I’d just say children should be old enough to appreciate the history, the landscape, culture and wildlife. Just pack an iPad and a battery pack for the car journeys (there is Wi-Fi in the vehicles, but sometimes it can be a bit capricious)!
To plan your next Sri Lanka holiday, call our specialists on 01494 678 400 or enquire here.
