Sri Lanka

Compact, exotic, and teeming with natural wonders, Sri Lanka is a multi-faceted destination satiating every flavor of tropical adventure. Between enchanting beaches, ancient beaches, misty hinterlands, and vast tea plantations lies a nation of kaleidoscopic natural and cultural diversity. A melting pot of intriguing Buddhist and Hindu customs, this mystic island is an idyllic retreat for those seeking bodily and spiritual reconnection. Feel the vitality of sacred centuries-old rituals and the authenticity of a truly distinct people across the island's bustling metropolises and quaint pastoral hamlets smattered with British, Portuguese, and Dutch colonial influences. Whether you're seeking to disconnect from every day and soak in the laid back pace of living or are seeking an intrepid adventure, Sri Lanka is a destination that invites you to explore at your own pace. A fantastic roster of super home charters merge the pinnacle of white glove service, and luxuriant amenities claim the most spectacular corners of this paradisiacal tropical island. Here is a list of Sri Lanka's must-visit regions:

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is an ancient rock fortress and a significant archaeological site in Sri Lanka. It's renowned for its massive column of rock nearly 200 meters high, atop which sits an ancient palace. The site is famous for its intricate frescoes, landscaped gardens, and the Lion's Gate, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking views.

Mirissa

Mirissa is a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka, known for its stunning beaches and as a top spot for whale and dolphin watching. The area offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, with pristine sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The nightlife in Mirissa, with beach parties and seafood restaurants, adds to its appeal as a vibrant seaside destination.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is rich in cultural and archaeological significance, with well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It's home to several major Buddhist temples and stupas, making it a key pilgrimage site and a fascinating destination for those interested in history and spirituality.

Arugam Bay

Known as a surfer's paradise, Arugam Bay on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka offers some of the best surfing spots in the world. Beyond surfing, the area is also known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe. It's a great destination for those looking to enjoy water sports, wildlife watching, and exploring the nearby national parks.

Ella

Ella, nestled in the midst of lush greenery and rolling hills, is a picturesque town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It's famous for its tea plantations, stunning mountain views, and hiking trails, including the popular trek to Ella Rock. The town offers a serene and refreshing environment, ideal for nature lovers and trekkers.

Colombo

Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, is a blend of modern urban life and colonial buildings. The city is a hub of commerce and culture, with a lively street food scene, shopping markets, and a range of museums and galleries. Colombo's seaside promenade, Galle Face Green, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Jaffna

Jaffna, in the northern tip of Sri Lanka, offers a unique cultural experience with its rich Tamil heritage. The city is known for its distinctive cuisine, ancient Hindu temples, and the Jaffna Fort. Visitors to Jaffna can experience a different aspect of Sri Lanka’s cultural mosaic, with its vibrant traditions and history. Galle Galle, a city on the southwest coast, is famous for its well-preserved Dutch fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Galle Fort area, with its colonial architecture, boutique shops, and cafes, exudes a quaint, historical charm. The city's beaches and nearby rainforests also offer a range of activities for visitors.

Kandy

Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, is a city surrounded by mountains and known for its sacred Buddhist sites, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The city hosts the annual Esala Perahera festival, a vibrant and colorful celebration. Kandy also offers access to tea plantations and botanical gardens, making it a significant stop for those interested in Sri Lankan culture and natural beauty.

With 830 miles of coastline, Sri Lanka spoils with its breadth of white sand shores, secluded coves, and vast bays. Flour-fine sands and crystalline waters embraced by fringes of verdant technicolor foliage are a common sight in this blessed nation, offering every gradient of seaswept bliss. Satiating the ultimate tropical island fantasy is a fantastic line-up of beaches from wild, untamed sands to bustling urban shores. Soak in otherworldly seclusion, enraptured by the soothing surf of the Indian Ocean, or seek out the waves on the south shore. Select your beachfront luxury Villa poised on the Island's most revered shores and reacquaint yourself with the blissful pace of sand-between-your-toes tropical living. Our amazing beachfront super home charters fully immerse guests into the wonder of Sri Lanka's shores. The ultimate way to while away the hours embraced by the breezy ocean elements, time spent on Sri Lanka's beaches is never time lost. Here is a list of the nation's revered shorelines:

Mirissa Secret Beach

As the name suggests, Mirissa Secret Beach is a hidden gem, offering a more secluded and tranquil beach experience. With its golden sands and turquoise waters, it's perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.

Polhena Beach

Polhena Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also a popular spot for spotting turtles, adding to its appeal for wildlife enthusiasts and families.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach, famous for its coral sanctuary and vibrant marine life, is a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. The beach area is also known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous beach bars and restaurants, making it a popular spot for tourists.

Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach, with its crescent shape and golden sands, is renowned for its beauty and relaxed vibe. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a range of water sports, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Dalawella Beach

Dalawella Beach, known for its iconic rope swing that hangs over the turquoise waters, offers picturesque scenery and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach's clear waters are also great for swimming and snorkeling.

Weligama Beach:

Weligama, meaning 'sandy village,' is a popular spot for surfing, especially for beginners. The beach's long, gentle breaks and surfing schools make it an ideal place for those looking to learn the sport in a beautiful setting.

Nilaveli Beach

Nilaveli Beach is one of the most pristine beaches in Sri Lanka, known for its soft white sands and clear waters. It offers a serene and unspoiled beach experience, ideal for relaxing and sunbathing.

Dutch Bay Beach

Dutch Bay Beach in Trincomalee offers a blend of history and natural beauty. The beach is relatively quiet and offers stunning views, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

Hiriketiya Beach

Hiriketiya Beach is a small, horseshoe-shaped bay known for its surfing. The beach has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, with a few beachside cafes and restaurants, and is a hidden paradise for surfers and beach goers alike.

Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach is a wide, golden beach known for its water sports and luxury resorts. The beach is ideal for activities like jet-skiing, windsurfing, and sailing, making it popular among adventure seekers.

Arugam Bay Beach

Arugam Bay is not only a famous surfing destination but also a beautiful beach in its own right. The bay has a relaxed, surfer-friendly atmosphere, with a variety of cafes and shops catering to the surfing community.

Kalkudah Beach

Kalkudah Beach, known for its calm and shallow waters, is ideal for families and those looking for a peaceful beach experience. The beach's natural beauty is enhanced by its seclusion and the soft, golden sands.

Casuarina Beach

Casuarina Beach in Jaffna is unique for its casuarina trees and relatively untouched environment. The beach offers a different landscape compared to other Sri Lankan beaches and is known for its serene and tranquil atmosphere.

A fantastic destination for the epicurean, Sri Lanka offers a tantalizing fine dining scene heavily influenced by South Indian cuisine. A mesmerizing array of exotic spices impart an inimitable flavor to the region's authentic dishes introducing a new dimension to exotic dining. This illustrious culinary heritage is far from timid, delivering bold aromas and sensations that enrapture all the senses. Ceylon dining invigorates the senses between fiery curries, delectable caramelized onion sweetness, and highly aromatic coconut and tropical fruit additions. At the vanguard of authentic gastronomic experiences, Sri Lanka's rising star as a luxury destination has correlated with a blossoming of world-class fine dining experiences specially curated for the most discerning and adventurous palettes. Embark on a sensory odyssey with the Island's most revered restaurants:

Ministry of Crab | Seafood

Located in the historic Dutch Hospital in Colombo, Ministry of Crab is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Renowned for its succulent crab dishes, the restaurant offers a variety of preparations, celebrating the local seafood in a stylish and vibrant setting.

Paradise Road Gallery Café | Eclectic

This chic café, set in a converted art gallery in Colombo, offers an elegant dining experience amidst contemporary art. Known for its eclectic menu and famous desserts, especially the chocolate fondant, it's a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Monsoon | Asian

Monsoon serves a variety of Southeast Asian cuisines, offering a blend of Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Malaysian flavors. The restaurant's modern, tropical décor complements its fresh and vibrant dishes, creating a delightful dining experience.

Nihonbashi | Japanese

Nihonbashi, led by renowned chef Dharshan Munidasa, is a top destination for authentic Japanese cuisine in Sri Lanka. The restaurant is known for its high-quality sushi and sashimi, prepared with fresh local seafood.

Upali's by Nawaloka | Sri Lankan

Upali's offers traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with a homely touch. It's a great place to experience local flavors like hoppers, kottu, and curry dishes in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.

The Bayleaf | Italian

Set in a colonial-era mansion, The Bayleaf offers an exquisite Italian dining experience in Colombo. The restaurant is known for its authentic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and a cozy ambiance.

The Lagoon| Seafood

Located at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, The Lagoon is a seafood lover's paradise. The restaurant offers a unique 'market-style' concept, allowing diners to choose their seafood and cooking style, ensuring a fresh and personalized dining experience.

Harbour Court at Kingsbury | International

Harbour Court provides a sophisticated dining experience with its international buffet spread. The restaurant is known for its wide array of cuisines, ranging from Western to Asian, and its elegant setting.

The Ocean | Seafood

The Ocean, located at The Kingsbury Hotel, specializes in seafood cuisine. With its stunning ocean views and gourmet dishes, it's a perfect spot for a luxurious and romantic dining experience.

Yue Chuan | Chinese

At The Kingsbury Hotel, Yue Chuan offers a fine dining Chinese experience. The restaurant's authentic Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, served in a refined setting, make it a favorite among Chinese cuisine aficionados.

Golden Dragon | Chinese

Located at Taj Samudra, Golden Dragon serves authentic Chinese cuisine, specializing in Szechuan and Cantonese dishes. The restaurant's elegant décor and expertly crafted dishes provide an immersive and upscale dining experience.

Capital Bar & Grill | Steakhouse

This steakhouse at Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, offers a range of premium meats and seafood. The Capital Bar & Grill is known for its high-quality steaks, elegant atmosphere, and extensive wine list.

The London Grill | European

At the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, The London Grill offers a fine dining experience with its selection of gourmet European dishes. The restaurant's intimate setting and meticulous service make it ideal for special occasions.

Navratna | Indian

Navratna, located at Taj Samudra, is renowned for its exquisite North Indian cuisine. The restaurant's rich curries, tandoori dishes, and elegant ambiance provide a truly royal dining experience.

Tintagel Colombo | International, Indian

A boutique hotel's restaurant, Tintagel Colombo offers an exclusive and intimate dining experience. The menu features a blend of international and local flavors, served in a luxurious and historic setting.

Rare at Residence | Creative Fusion

Situated at the Residence by Uga Escapes, rare is known for its innovative fusion cuisine. The restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with dishes that are a blend of international techniques and local flavors.

Yumi | Japanese

Yumi, at Taj Samudra, is a trendy and modern Japanese restaurant and bar. Known for its sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired cocktails, Yumi offers a lively and contemporary dining experience.

Café Français | French

Located in Colombo, Café Français brings a taste of Paris to Sri Lanka with its French bistro-style cuisine. The restaurant is known for its Parisian ambiance, classic French dishes, and extensive wine list.

Robata Lounge | Japanese

A contemporary Japanese restaurant in Colombo, Robata Lounge specializes in robatayaki-style cooking. The restaurant offers a unique and interactive dining experience with an open grill.

Sri Lanka unleashes a Pandora's box of remarkable experiences that will leave the adventurer spellbound. Uncover the island's untold secrets and bask in the otherworldly aura of ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples. Head to the lush heartland at Nuwara Eliya and seize the country club comforts of stunning golf links embraced by a tapestry of tea plantations. Mount the slopes of the UNESCO-protected Adam's Peak and soak in mesmerizing sunset scenes well worth the nocturnal trek. A destination that invigorates a newfound sense of awe at the Earth's astonishing natural beauty, Sri Lanka brims with pristine ecosystems and pristine reserves, promising close encounters with the world's most majestic inhabitants. Get under the skin of one of the planet's most enigmatic luxury destinations with the following exclusive experiences:

Hike Adam's Peak

Hiking Adam's Peak, or Sri Pada, is a unique and spiritual experience in Sri Lanka. This sacred mountain attracts thousands of pilgrims and adventurers, who climb its steps to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit. The hike is not only a physical challenge but also a journey through stunning landscapes and an opportunity to experience a significant cultural and religious site.

Deep Sea Fishing off the Coast of Bentota

For a thrilling adventure, deep-sea fishing off the coast of Bentota offers a chance to catch a variety of game fish, such as marlin, tuna, and sailfish. The experience, set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean's vast expanse, provides both excitement and relaxation, suitable for both seasoned anglers and beginners.

Golf the Victoria Course

Playing a round of golf at the Victoria Golf & Country Resort is a must for golf enthusiasts. The course, renowned for its stunning scenery and challenging layout, offers panoramic views of the Victoria Reservoir and the Knuckles Mountain Range, making it one of the most picturesque golfing experiences in Sri Lanka.

Visit the Buduruwagala Temple in Hill Country

The Buduruwagala Temple, located in the serene hill country, is an ancient Buddhist temple known for its massive rock-cut Buddha statues. The temple complex, surrounded by forest, provides a peaceful and spiritual experience, allowing visitors to appreciate both the religious and historical significance of the site.

Hot Air Balloon Above Dambulla-Kandalama

A hot air balloon ride over Dambulla-Kandalama is a magical way to see Sri Lanka's landscapes from above. Floating gently over historical sites, including the Dambulla Cave Temples, and natural wonders like the Kandalama Lake, this experience offers unparalleled views and a sense of tranquility.

Go Whale-Watching from a Seaplane

For an extraordinary wildlife adventure, whale watching from a seaplane offers a unique perspective. Flying off the coast, passengers can spot blue whales and other marine life from the air, providing a truly unforgettable experience of nature's grandeur.

Tour the Hantane Tea Estate

Visiting the Hantane Tea Estate near Kandy offers insight into the world of Ceylon tea. The tour includes a walk through the lush tea plantations, a visit to the factory to learn about the tea-making process, and a tasting session, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for tea lovers.

Visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy

The Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy is a haven of flora and a testament to Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity. The garden, home to more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids and medicinal plants, is not only a place of beauty but also a center of botanical research and conservation, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.