SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka is a land of contrasts and natural beauty; primeval jungles teem with wild leopard and elephants, while saffron-clad monks meditate beside wondrous ruins – testament to the noble civilizations of the past. Golden beaches stretch for miles with nothing obscuring the view but traditional fishing boats, slender swaying palms and surfers seeking waves over development.

 In the interior, the cool misty mountains loom over lush green slopes be-speckled with brightly dressed tea pickers whose families increasingly offer authentic homestays amidst working plantations. Beyond, the nation’s colonial history unfolds through the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Anuradhapura (the Cultural Triangle), the old capital of Kandy and the colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya – each destination offering different facets of the country alongside community-run heritage properties.

However, there is so much more to this stunning island, particularly for travellers seeking genuine connections. From heritage plantation estates nestled in misty hills to intimate safari lodges bordering pristine national parks, these properties offer authentic Sri Lankan experiences. You’ll find charming walawwas (ancestral homes) steeped in colonial history, beachfront retreats along untouched coastlines, and wilderness camps providing unparalleled access to wildlife. Each property champions local communities, traditional architecture, and environmental stewardship while delivering genuine hospitality.

 A visit to Sri Lanka can be a heady, intoxicating, and emotional experience – especially when your stay directly supports local communities.

In addition, all destinations are no more than a few hours’ drive from one another, making it perfectly sized for low-impact travel by train and bus. In a mere 24 hours you can imbibe the tranquility of an organic plantation homestay, wonder at the strength of such gentle faith at an ancient Buddhist temple, and stroll hand-in-hand along a romantic beach where turtle conservation projects operate through the night.