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: Sustainability

Train journey through Sri Lanka's emerald tea country

TikaWeeks #41/2026: Sri Lanka update

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.

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.

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 #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.

View from The Pekoe Trail (Stage 1) near Kandy, Sri Lanka

TikaWeeks #35/2025: Sri Lanka update

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.

Sky at night from Wild Glamping Knuckles, Sri Lanka

TikaWeeks #34/2025: Sri Lanka update

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.

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