“We loved it all! Particularly the beautiful scenery, fascinating culture, friendly people, delicious food (lots of rice and curry!), and the amazing wildlife.”
Natasha & Ross, travelled to Sri Lanka, March 2023
Sri Lanka is a lush, tropical island paradise, known to Arab traders as Serendib - hence "serendipity", meaning discovery by happy accident - and famously described by Marco Polo as "undoubtedly the finest island of its size in the world".
Culturally rich and environmentally diverse, Sri Lanka boasts eight World Heritage Sites (the oldest dating back to the 3rd Century BCE), 86 species of mammals (including elephants and leopards), more than 500 bird species (including 33 endemics), a colourful array of flowering plants and trees, a Hill Country famous for tea and trekking, 14 National Parks out of 100 areas protected by the government, and 1600 km of Indian Ocean coastline offering palm-fringed and sun-drenched tropical beaches.
Trip PlannerEach region of Sri Lanka has something unique to offer. Get a better understanding of this beautiful island paradise by exploring each region, and the major sites and cities within them.
Find out which activities each region has on offer, whether it's exploring ancient temples, spotting exotic wildlife or simply relaxing on a palm-fringed tropical beach.
Explore Sri Lanka




Kandy
Contemporary and stylish boutique hotel in an enviable location overlooking Kandy. The architecture makes the most of the wondrous aerial aspect and is centred on the view, which is made visible at every point possible from inside the house.
More AccommodationThere is so much to do during your visit to Sri Lanka that it may be hard to know where to start. We have put together some taster itineraries for you to see the range of accommodation and activities available on the island. You may like to use them as a starting point to plan your very own trip, or we can do it all for you if you prefer - the choice is yours!
Posted by John on 6th October 2026
Last Friday, tears of joy accompanied the reopening of the train line from Colombo to Kandy as the train service resumed following the devastation wrought by Cyclone Ditwah, and trains have also restarted between Nanuoya (Nuwara Eliya) and Badulla in the Hill Country. Sri Lanka was hailed as the No. 1 island destination in 2026 as well as named among the world’s top 50 food destinations. In other news, a documentary on the island triumphed in top global TV awards, Qatar Airways and Emirates are increasing their number of flights, and Aitken Spence achieves GSTC certification.
Read more »Posted by John on 3rd October 2026
It has been a while since I last posted and apologies for that, but now I am back! Lots to report across a wide range of subjects including AI-inspired or -planned itineraries, the Middle East conflict’s continuing effect on travel, a Sri Lanka hotels’ update, feedback from recent travel events, future holidays and the climate crisis, and the new EU directive on ‘greenwashing’. We are looking forward to our winter peak season with added vigour now that we have Mahesh in our local office, new licensed guides recruited, and Dihini waiting in the wings having just passed her travel management degree in Canada.
Read more »Posted by John on 27th May 2026
From 25 May 2026, UK citizens will be issued with a free 30-day visa as we suggested a couple of weeks ago. Travellers from 40 countries are eligible for the free visa including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and USA. However, you will still need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travelling to Sri Lanka as before. Congratulations to Kulu Safaris for being included in The Travel Green List™ 2026, Wanderlust Magazine's annual showcase of impactful and responsible travel initiatives.
Read more »“We loved it all! Particularly the beautiful scenery, fascinating culture, friendly people, delicious food (lots of rice and curry!), and the amazing wildlife.”
Natasha & Ross, travelled to Sri Lanka, March 2023
“We are back and a million thanks for organising such a fabulous time for us. We had a wonderful holiday. Everything was well planned with plenty of time allowed to do all the things we had chosen to do.”
Harriet & Michael, travelled to Sri Lanka, February 2023
“This was a truly memorable holiday. We loved Sri Lanka. The Itinerary was fantastic and allowed us to get a real feel for the history and culture of Sri Lanka.”
Chris & Karen, travelled to Sri Lanka, January/February 2023
“This really was the holiday of a lifetime and we couldn't have asked for more from our honeymoon. John and the team at Tikalanka were amazing throughout.”
James & Mirella, travelled to Sri Lanka & Maldives, February 2023
“Thank you so much John, we had such a wonderful time and have you, Pathi and Nihal to thank for that. We will definitely return in the future and we keep recommending you to everyone.”
Kate & Zak, travelled to Sri Lanka, May 2023
“We had a wonderful holiday together as a family. Something for everyone and lots of things we enjoy doing together. Such a lovely country full of smiles and greenery.”
Strachan family, travelled to Sri Lanka, February 2023
“We chose Tikalanka as John really took on board our choices and ideas when we first discussed our visit - and had put together a perfect mix of culture, wildlife and beaches. We would happily recommend Tikalanka to friends!”
Hilary & Sean, travelled to Sri Lanka, May 2024
“Our itinerary was perfect for us. We enjoyed all of our stays. The service was outstanding in all the places we stayed. Ravi was exceptional. He went above and beyond to make our journeys interesting.”
Jane & Jerry, travelled to Sri Lanka, January/February 2025
“This holiday was up there with the best ever had by us and we heartily thank you, John and Pathi, for such a superb time.”
Sue & Graeme, travelled to Sri Lanka, February 2025
“We were delighted with our trip to Sri Lanka, especially with the amount of birds and wildlife we were able to see. An unforgettable trip which has produced some amazing photos.”
Laurence & Elaine, travelled to Sri Lanka & Maldives, February/March 2020
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