Tika Traveller

Discover Sri Lanka & Maldives From Those Who Know It Best

Blogs from Tikalanka are designed to enhance your knowledge of Sri Lanka and Maldives and keep you up to date with recent developments. We intend to post regular features on travel, news, lifestyle and accommodation as well as guest articles from current and past customers, which will give you first-hand experience of Tikalanka, Sri Lanka and Maldives.

Category: Accommodation

The Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's 300-km-long, 22-stage hiking trail through the dramatic Hill Country

TikaWeeks #40/2026: Sri Lanka update

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.

TikaWeeks #22/2026: Sri Lanka update

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.

TikaWeeks #20/2026: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 13th May 2026

Sri Lanka comes alive in May to celebrate Wesak (Vesak), one of the country’s most cherished cultural and religious festivals commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. Streets across the nation glow with vibrant lanterns, illuminated pandols, and decorative lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere that reflects the spirit of peace, compassion, and togetherness.

Galkadawala Forest Lodge, Habarana, Sri Lanka

TikaWeeks #19/2026: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 8th May 2026

Congratulations to Galkadawala Forest Lodge on its 20th anniversary! This epic milestone is a tribute to Maulie de Saram’s hard work, unflinching commitment, and true belief in her core values, an exemplar of sustainability in tourism and the authentic Sri Lankan way. She has produced an excellent short film that should be shared widely which captures the essence of Galkadawala. It is an inspiring achievement, and we are privileged to be involved.

Mahoora Safari Camp, Wilpattu, Sri Lanka

TikaWeeks #15/2026: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 10th April 2026

With the Middle East conflict continuing despite ceasefire proposals, more of our holidays are being postponed due to a lack of reasonably priced flight options. With our main carriers to Sri Lanka based in the conflict zone, all flights are suspended and other airlines are taking advantage of the situation by increasing flight prices significantly. Postponing a holiday is always an option with us when world events dictate. Your money is secure and backed up by ATOL or ABTOT protection.

TikaWeeks #14/2026: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 1st April 2026

The first two months of 2026 were signalling a bumper year for tourism in Sri Lanka, on the back of record visitor numbers in 2025. However, the Middle East conflict has resulted in a significant drop in arrivals to the island since the beginning of last month, mostly due to Sri Lanka’s reliance on Middle Eastern airlines to bring in the majority of Western visitors. While recent developments in the Middle East have understandably raised questions, Sri Lanka remains largely unaffected, offering a sense of calm, continuity and quiet reassurance.

TikaWeeks #13/2026: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 26th March 2026

To say this year has been busy is an understatement, which is the reason for the lack of updates so far – sorry! We are receiving an ever-increasing number of enquiries via ChatGPT and deep dives into Google AI, which shows that our online presence is strong and authentic. Obviously, the conflict between the USA/Israel and Iran has caused issues but we have managed to either reschedule or postpone most of the holidays affected. This is an update for the year to date…

TikaWeeks #49/2025: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 6th December 2025

Cyclone Ditwah caused extensive flooding and landslides on its passage through Sri Lanka last week. Our thoughts are with all those affected by the tropical cyclone. Thankfully, our team in Sri Lanka is safe and our holidays are continuing on the island. Recent updates from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and other local organisations indicate that the island is recovering and most of the country is safe for travel. We are receiving regular updates from our office in Kandy, local colleagues around the island, the SLTDA, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance to keep us informed of the actual situation on the ground.

TikaWeeks #41/2025: Sri Lanka update

Posted by John on 12th October 2025

Tikalanka is now an official Pekoe Trail DMC Partner, which means we have been trained and certified by The Pekoe Trail Organization to design itineraries that incorporate the trail responsibly, respectfully, and sustainably. Whether you’re looking for a day hike through the tea country, a weeklong walking journey, or a tailored experience that blends wellness, nature, and culture – we are the professionals who can make it happen and who bring the trail to life for travellers from around the world.

TikaWeeks #38/2025: Sri Lanka update

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.

Independent Tailor-made Holidays to Sri Lanka & Maldives