Signature Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA | SIGNATURE SRI LANKA

A journey that encompasses the gems of Sri Lanka, that takes you from the modern capital to the ancient sites, and from the high breezes of the tea country to the low winds of the coastline. This is a signature path for first-timers with more than a week to spare. Beginning in Colombo, we take to new heights in a scenic seaplane flight to Sigiriya. Rising over the dry plains of the Sigiriya district, the climb of 1,200 footsteps up to the flat-topped mound of Sigiriya Rock Fortress ends with the most scenic view of the emerald plains and leafy villages beneath. Then it’s through another busy city, Kandy, before hopping on a train into the tea hills-one of our favourite experiences on the island-allowing you to see the landscape turn into a lush, verdant green. The South Coast is our next destination, heading to the beach to kick up our heels along the coastline and walking through the historic Galle Fort.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

Fly over lush forests and dramatic mountainscapes to reach journey points in a fraction of the time taken on the road. Take a peek out your window and see the greens of trees and blues of reservoirs from the comforts of a cosy seaplane.

Climb 1,200 footsteps up to the flat-topped mound of Sigiriya rock fortress for some amazing views of the surrounding lands. On the way to the top, climb a spiral staircase to observe the famous Sigiriya frescoes of the maidens bearing flowers, amidst the wilderness and ancient ruins.

Take a scenic train ride through changing landscapes, towering trees and tea plantations. Allow the train to take you on a gentle ride through lush tea plantations, mountains covered in mist and smiling people. Watch for the snack and chai vendors as they pass you with delicious-smelling treats. Get a window seat and feel the air turn cool and crisp. An absolute must-do in Sri Lanka.

Savour a traditional Sri Lankan lunch atop Poonalaga hill against a backdrop of the rolling tea country hills. Whether you hike or take a tuk-tuk up, the views are spectacular. It is at this point that Sir Thomas Lipton sat and surveyed his tea plantations.

Rise with the sun and take a leisurely hike around the hills of Thotalagala. The path leads you through forest and hill, perhaps also through the magical, misty fog of the tea country. Make your way past waterfalls on this leisurely walk, and you may spot some goat on the way!

Galle Fort, built in the 16th Century by the Portuguese to defend Galle, is now one of the must-sees when travelling to the south-eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming narrow streets within the fort.

ACCOMMODATION

These are a selection of lodges that we feel combine well for this journey. However we do also have a range of options to consider in each region, and can tailor them to you preference.

Thotalagala

Located on Pitaratmalie Estate, part of the vast Agarapatana Plantation, the bungalow was built in the 19th century. Encircled by 20 acres of charming lawns and flower beds, Thotalagala still maintains the landscaping set out by an ardent British gardening enthusiast nearly two centuries ago. Thotalagala lies adjacent to Dambatenne, one of the only estates in the world that Sir Thomas Lipton planted himself. Lipton often resided in the bungalow when travelling around his estates, and no doubt enjoyed the magnificent view it offered of his flourishing plantation.