Sri Lanka

Situated on the central plains of Sri Lanka, the Cultural Triangle is the nucleus of early Sinhalese civilisation, centred around the great cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, whose impressive monuments still serve as powerful reminders of that golden age. The other three World Heritage sites are the majestic rock fortress of Sigiriya, the cave complex of Dambulla and the sacred city of Kandy.

The mist-covered mountains of Sri Lanka’s central highlands shelter over 400,000 acres of lush tea plantations. Introduced by the British in 1867, tea remains the country’s major export. Stay in classic colonial bungalows built for British tea planters and visit the factories for an immersive tea experience.

Yala National Park stretches across the beaches, forests, bushlands, grassy plains and lagoons of Sri Lanka’s stunning south-eastern coastline. Embark on a morning game drive in search of the park’s elephant, crocodile, buffalo, monkey, and the elusive leopard — a rare sight spotted by only a lucky few.

Sri Lanka is famed for its swaying palm trees, azure seas and sumptuous beaches. Seek out deserted coastline, or pick an elegant resort on the south coast where you can visit a cinnamon plantation, wake for dawn yoga and dine on fresh and vibrant seafood and fare.

Step out on a food walk which takes you on a gastronomic journey of cross-cultural influences from authentic Sri Lankan cuisine to a fusion of Indian-Malay, Dutch and Portuguese. Experience the different cultures that make up Sri Lanka as your senses are overcome with tantalising tastes and fragrances.

Get out into nature with an off-the-beaten-path walk through Sri Lanka’s spectacular Central Highlands. The Pekoe Trail takes you along scenic walking paths that are centuries old, rich in history, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Embark on a jeep safari through Minneriya National Park. Keep your camera handy for elephant, buffalo and a variety of endemic wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot sloth bears as they feast on berries of the Palu tree, or even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

All aboard one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys as you travel through the highlands of Sri Lanka, from captivating Kandy to the hill station of Hatton. Roll past emerald green tea estates blanketed in cloud and breathe in the unmistakable aroma of pure Ceylon tea.