Sri Lanka

Plan Your Perfect Sri Lanka Holiday with Thorne Travel

A Journey of Culture, Wildlife, and Natural Wonder

From golden beaches and lush tea plantations to sacred temples and vibrant markets, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable escape filled with colour, culture, and contrast. This island nation blends tropical relaxation with rich heritage and wild adventure — making it a truly unique destination for every kind of traveller.

Explore colonial towns, climb ancient rock fortresses, spot elephants and leopards in national parks, or unwind on the palm-fringed southern coast. With its warm hospitality, diverse landscapes, and incredible food scene, Sri Lanka is a destination that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Plan Your Sri Lanka Getaway

Sri Lanka offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking cultural discovery in Kandy, wildlife safaris in Yala National Park, or a peaceful beach retreat in Bentota or Mirissa, this island delivers it all. Travel is easy, scenery is ever-changing, and the experiences are deeply enriching.

Discover Buddhist temples, visit spice gardens, enjoy scenic train journeys through the misty hills of Ella, and savour authentic Sri Lankan curries. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or on honeymoon, Sri Lanka’s variety makes it easy to build the perfect itinerary.

Make It a Multi-Centre Adventure

Sri Lanka is ideal for a twin or multi-centre escape. Why not pair your stay with a stopover in Dubai, a beach break in the Maldives, or a wellness retreat in Bali? Whether you want adventure and relaxation, or culture and coast, we’ll tailor your holiday to suit your style.

Ready to Start Planning?

Let our expert team help you build your ideal Sri Lanka escape. Whether you’re after a luxury tour, a beach and culture combo, or a full island adventure, we’ll take care of every detail.

Travel Guide

Sri Lanka is a land of contrasts — golden beaches, lush rainforests, ancient temples, and misty tea-covered hills all packed into one unforgettable island. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities like Colombo and Kandy, spotting elephants on safari, or relaxing on palm-fringed beaches, Sri Lanka offers a rich mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty.

With warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and UNESCO-listed heritage sites around every corner, it’s no wonder Sri Lanka is a favourite for honeymooners, explorers, and wellness seekers

Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F

Average Flight Time from UK: Approximately 11 Hours

Time Difference: +5.5 Hours

Sri Lanka’s Natural Beauty

From lush rainforests to mist-draped mountains, Sri Lanka offers a stunning array of natural beauty:

Beaches and Stilt Fishermen – Sri Lanka’s secluded beaches are ideal for relaxing by the warm turquoise waters. Watch the iconic Ritipanna stilt fishermen at work, balancing on stilts in the shallow waters.

Train Journey from Ella to Kandy – The train ride through Sri Lanka’s lush heartland is known as the world’s most beautiful rail journey. Pass through misty mountains, tea plantations, and verdant forests as you head from Ella to Kandy.

Tea Plantations – Sri Lanka’s hill country is dotted with sprawling tea plantations. Take a tour of the plantations to learn about the island’s famous tea production and enjoy a refreshing cuppa surrounded by lush greenery.

Rock Formations – Sri Lanka is home to some impressive rock formations and mountain ranges, including the Adam’s Peak and the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, both of which offer incredible views and historical significance.

Rich Culture and History

Sri Lanka is a cultural treasure trove, with ancient temples, UNESCO sites, and rich heritage waiting to be explored:

Anuradhapura – A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient city of Anuradhapura is home to well-preserved ruins and temples, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, said to be the oldest living tree in the world.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress – A must-visit, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress and palace complex. Climb the rock to see the breathtaking views and learn about the site’s fascinating history.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth – Located in Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. It is said to house a relic of the Buddha’s tooth, and is an essential part of Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage.

Colombo – The bustling capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a perfect mix of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant markets. Explore the National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, and the scenic Galle Face Green promenade.

Wildlife and Nature

For wildlife enthusiasts, Sri Lanka is a paradise. The island’s national parks and wildlife reserves are home to a variety of animals:

Yala National Park – Sri Lanka’s most famous national park, Yala, is home to a large population of elephants, as well as the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. It’s a must-see for wildlife lovers.

Udawalawe National Park – A popular destination to spot herds of wild elephants and a range of other wildlife, including water buffalo, monkeys, and sambar deer.

Wilpattu National Park – Known for its natural lagoons and dense forests, Wilpattu is the perfect spot to witness Sri Lanka’s native creatures in their natural habitat, including sloth bears and leopards.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sinharaja is a tropical rainforest that is home to many endemic species of plants, animals, and birds.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation, from exclusive luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels:

Amanwella – A luxury beachfront resort offering stylish villas, private pools, and stunning ocean views in the Tangalle region.

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana – Set in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, this resort offers a combination of luxury and nature, with lush gardens and easy access to ancient temples and monuments.

Cape Weligama – A stunning luxury resort perched on the cliffs of Weligama Bay, offering spacious villas, an oceanfront restaurant, and world-class amenities.

Ulagalla by Uga Escapes – A luxurious eco-retreat offering villas with private pools and breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s countryside.

Jetwing Vil Uyana – Located in the Cultural Triangle, this eco-friendly resort offers a tranquil experience with stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and close access to the UNESCO sites.

Sri Lanka

Plan Your Perfect Sri Lanka Holiday with Thorne Travel

Travel Guide

Sri Lanka’s Natural Beauty

Rich Culture and History

Wildlife and Nature

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

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