“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 LankaWilpattu
Tented safari camp experience bordering the southern reaches of Wilpattu National Park. Surrounded by bush forest and adjoining a lake, the camp is visited by elephants and has a rich birdlife. Enjoy comfortable tents and al fresco meals in the serenity of nature.
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 17th September 2025
Travel not only reduces stress and burn out, but it improves your mood, life satisfaction and sleep as well as increases energy levels and creativity, with this 'boost' typically lasting 2 weeks after your return from holiday. However, travelling responsibly and engaging in meaningful or novel activities increases this boost to up to 6 weeks. Last week's Open House event organised by Responsible Travel in Brighton is an annual get-together of travel companies with responsible and sustainable travel at their heart and Tikalanka was there as usual.
Read more »Posted by John on 28th August 2025
The Pekoe Trail is Sri Lanka’s alternative to the Camino de Santiago, and it is becoming evermore popular since it launched in 2023. The Pekoe Trail is a 300-kilometre, 22-stage meticulously curated long-distance walking trail that winds its way through the enchanting Central Highlands of Sri Lanka – often regarded as one of Asia’s best-kept secrets. Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant local communities, each offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich traditions, warm hospitality, and unique cultural heritage, making the experience as meaningful as it is adventurous. Here is a local and personal perspective of the first two stages recently hiked by Mahesh, Pathi and Suba’s son.
Read more »Posted by John on 20th August 2025
‘Off grid’ can have many meanings. Being cut off from technology, using power generated from renewables onsite, or disengaging from everyday life are all what people understand by ‘off grid’. We seem to have become addicted to the internet, WhatsApp, Instagram and the rest without ever considering what travelling was like before the World Wide Web and mobile phones, 24-hour electricity, and a slower pace of life more in tune with nature. Well, now you have your chance with various ‘off grid’ experiences in Sri Lanka.
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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