What to do, see, and love in Sri Lanka
Enjoy tea, sea and safari on this diverse and beautiful island, which is fast gaining star status as a travel destination
It’s hard to identify just one thing that’s attracting travellers to Sri Lanka as it offers something different and special for everyone.
What was once a tiny island embroiled in a civil war and plagued with devastating setbacks is now one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
Find a favourite beach, trek through misty mountains, let your hair go wild on a scenic train ride, see the sunset from the remains of a colonial fortress, spot Sri Lankan leopards in the wild, and wash your curry down with the local spirit, arrack.
Striking and diverse, natural and alluring, venture to this jewel in the Indian Ocean as soon as possible, before everybody realises just how much it shines.
Tea
Journey into the centre of Sri Lanka and you’ll find yourself on tight winding roads that lead you up through the hills and towards the misty peaks of Tea Country. Here, plantations stretch far and wide, interspersed with brightly painted rows of remote houses, tiny ramshackle villages with a local shop, school, and church thrown in for good measure, and old tea factories dating back over 100 years which are still in use today.
Do: Join a tea factory tour to learn about the tea-making process, see the working machinery in action, meet the staff, and put the kettle on. The Norwood Estate plantation dates back to 1870 and provides guided tours, beautiful landscaped gardens, and gorgeous views over Castlereagh reservoir.
The region is also excellent for trekking, and those feeling energetic can climb the famed 2,250 metre Adam's Peak holy mountain for sunrise.