The perfect holiday in Sri Lanka, the Indian Ocean's most on-trend destination
On a typical tour, you'll travel through distinct topographical regions, so that each leg of your island journey is a unique adventure. Combine soft-sand beaches, lakes and forest-edged waterfalls with verdant mountains and mist-kissed tea estates, weaving in spellbinding ancient temples and national parks home to leopards, elephants and a vibrant symphony of birds.
But it's the kindness, warmth and curiosity of Sri Lankans that will stay with you long after you return home. Always willing to challenge you to a game of cricket, they are also open to sharing their distinct culture and traditions, and their sensational range of regional-diverse cuisine.
For more Sri Lanka inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars, things to do and beaches.
In this guide:
How to spend the perfect day in Sri Lanka
Morning
Get to Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna early for a dip in the ocean's turquoise lagoon and the chance to spy green turtles before the crowds (and their camera phones) arrive. Order fresh juices from Wijaya Beach, an oceanfront staple for all-day wood-fired pizzas and fruity sundowners.
Next, hop on a bicycle to absorb Galle's verdant hinterland with Idle Bikes (the headquarters is less than a 10-minute drive away from Wijeya). Their 16-mile Paddy and Lake Trail (which takes around two-and-a-half hours) is moderately challenging yet immerses you in life away from the beach. Pedal through palm-shaded villages wrapped by rippling paddy fields and along quiet tracks criss-crossed by monitor lizards and mongoose to mangroves fringing vast Koggala Lake.
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