Journey to Sri Lanka Part I

Sri Lanka (SL) is a teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, just off the southern tip of India. I loved exploring its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, fine cuisine, rich history, national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes.

This two-part article, “Journey to Sri Lanka,” begins with part one, which explores half of my recommended itinerary. Part two will complete the journey and be featured in the next issue. The duration and plan for your stay in Sri Lanka can be customized to fit your timeline and preferences.

Architecture
With the arrival of Buddhism in the third century BCE, the island’s art and architecture flourished. Temples and stupas were intricately designed and adorned with elaborate carvings and frescoes, reflecting spiritual themes and devotion.

The legacy of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial rule introduced new styles and materials. This fusion created unique structures, blending local traditions with European influences.

Notable contemporary architecture in Sri Lanka strongly focuses on sustainability, blending modern design with the island’s cultural heritage. Architects and designers are crafting innovative spaces seamlessly integrating traditional elements, especially in hotel design.

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Colombo
Colombo is the gateway city to Sri Lanka, and the main international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).

Let Colombo introduce you to what lies ahead. Historical and cultural landmarks to see include Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, the National Museum of Colombo, and De Saram House. A food tour is recommended to explore the city’s multicultural blend of people and food.

You may also want to begin visiting and learning about the ICONIC architecture of Geoffrey Bawa (1919 – 2003). The renowned architect from Sri Lanka is widely recognized as the country’s foremost influence on modern architecture. Bawa was openly gay. His life and work often intersected with themes of identity and place. The richness of his legacy is reflected in a life lived authentically and creatively.

Bawa was known for creating fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing harmony with nature. His innovative use of space, light and materials, as well as his sensitivity to the surrounding landscape, has created benchmarks for architectural innovation.

Bawa’s architectural portfolio includes many projects, such as private residences, hotels, office buildings and public institutions. Explore Bawa’s designs and influence with visits to De Saram House, Galle Face Hotel, Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA), Tamarind Tree Restaurant, and Paradise Road The Gallery Cafe.

Jaffna
Beyond the typical itinerary, consider exploring north Sri Lanka with a one-hour private scenic flight to Jaffna.

Jaffna is located at the northern tip of Sri Lanka. It is the capital city of the Northern Province and is known for its rich history and unique Tamil heritage.

During your visit, sail to Delft Island in the Indian Ocean. Explore the serpent-shaped “Growing Stone,” the ancient Baobab tree from Arabic traders and the colonial-era fort with its prominent Queen’s Tower. Visit the Stupa, a local worship site, then follow wild horses to the pristine beach with clear waters and diverse marine life.

Also, visit Nagadeepa Island, home to Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, one of Sri Lanka’s 16 holiest Buddhist temples. A 10-minute walk away lies the Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Kovil, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati as Pooshani Amman, revered for blessings of prosperity, protection and fertility.

On another day, explore Jaffna and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Jaffna Market, which offers a glimpse into local Tamil life. Visit The Minister’s Palace, a ruined architectural testament to the wealth and cultural richness of the Jaffna Kingdom that ruled the Northern region from the 13th to early 17th century.

Anuradhapura District
Enjoy a scenic four-hour drive south to the Anuradhapura District and stay at Uga Ulagalla Resort, a luxurious retreat surrounded by reservoirs, lush paddy fields and lily ponds. Explore rustic farmland, local villages and indigenous forests, where you may spot elephants and other wildlife.

Spend a day exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which dates back to at least 1000 BCE and served as Sri Lanka’s capital from the fifth century BCE to the 11th century CE. This is where rulers embraced Buddhism in the third century BCE.

Sigiriya
With a scenic one-hour drive south of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya is a must-see site. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock, is an ICONIC UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sigiriya was constructed as a fortified royal palace complex situated strategically on a massive rock outcrop nearly 660 feet above the surrounding plains, which offered natural protection against invaders.

Dating back to the fifth century CE, Sigiriya showcases the sophisticated engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. To reach the fortress, the ascent involves a series of stairs and pathways that guide you to various viewpoints and attractions, including the renowned frescoes and the Mirror Wall.

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In the countryside around Sigiriya, spend a day exploring a remote village by bicycle, e-bike, or tuk-tuk. This immersive experience allows visitors to engage with the local culture and way of life.

Near Sigiriya, a photo safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park, or Hurulu Eco Park provides opportunities to see Asian elephants, Sri Lankan sloth bears, Sambar deer, wild boar, pythons, monitor lizards and butterflies such as the Common Rose and Blue Tiger. Birdwatching is exceptional as well.

Kandy
On the 3.5-hour drive between Sigiriya and the city of Kandy, stop to visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. The temple is a significant historical and religious site, famous for its ancient cave paintings and Buddha statues.

As you journey toward Kandy, the landscape transitions from flat plains to gently rolling hills. You will pass scenic rice paddies and vibrant agricultural fields. When you approach Kandy, plan to explore the region’s tropical beauty, including rubber plantations and tea estates, during your stay.

Kandy is located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s cultural capital. In the center of Kandy, bordering Lake Kandy, is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This is the most significant Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, housing the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It is an active temple, and visitors can witness traditional rituals and offerings.

A personal favorite experience is visiting Kandy Lake as sunset approaches. There, you can witness thousands of white egrets and large bats flying into the trees surrounding the lake to nest for the night, creating a beautiful, natural spectacle.

Just outside of Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya is famous for its vast collection of tropical plants that includes more than 4,000 species.

Upon departing Kandy by train, a highlight is enjoying the colonial-era station and riding the old trains that have changed little over the decades.

Hatton
This three-hour train ride to Hatton is a wonderful way to see the rolling countryside as you climb into the hills and tea plantations. Luxury accommodation options include exceptional colonial-era tea planters’ estates with beautiful views of hills and lakes. Activities include hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, croquet, tea factory visits, tea tastings and spa treatments. The resident tea planter will show you his age-old tea-making process.

Part two will be featured in the next issue, completing the journey.

SAMPLE ITINERARY
A “Best of the Best” recommended itinerary:

1. 2 – 3 nights in Colombo
Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo
https://paradiseroadhotels.com/tintagel/

Shangri-La Colombo
https://www.shangri-la.com/colombo/shangrila/

Uga Residence
https://www.ugaescapes.com/residence/

2. 2 – 3 nights in Jaffna
Jetwing Mahesa Bhawan
https://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingmahesabhawan

3. 1 – 2 nights in Anuradhapura District
Uga Ulagalla
https://www.ugaescapes.com/ulagalla/

4. 2 – 3 nights in Sigiriya
Water Garden Sigiriya
https://www.watergardensigiriya.com/

Jetwing Vil Uyana
https://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingviluyana/

Taru Villas – Maia Habarana
https://www.taruvillas.com/maia/

5. 2-3 nights in Kandy
W15 Hanthana Estate
https://hanthana.w15.lk/

The Kandy House
https://www.manorhouseconcepts.com/our-spaces/kandy-house/

The Kings Pavilion Kandy
https://www.kingspavilion.com/

6. 2 – 4 nights/near Hatton
Ceylon Tea Trails
https://www.resplendentceylon.com/teatrails/

Camellia Hills
https://www.teardrop-hotels.com/camellia-hills/

Uga Halloowella
https://www.ugaescapes.com/halloowella

Stafford Bungalow
https://www.staffordbungalow.com/

7. 1 – 3 nights in Ella
Walaa Kulu
https://www.walaakulu.com

Nine Skies
https://www.teardrop-hotels.com/nine-skies

8. 2 – 3 nights in Yala
Hilton Yala Resort
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/kdwyahi-hilton-yala-resort/

Wild Coast Tented Lodge
https://www.resplendentceylon.com/wildcoastlodge-yala/

9. 2 – 4 nights in Tangalle
Amanwella Tangalle, an Aman Resort
https://www.aman.com/resorts/amanwella

Anantara Peace Heaven Tangalle Resort
https://www.anantara.com/en/peace-haven-tangalle

Taru Villas Mawella
https://www.taruvillas.com/mawella-tangalle/

Last House Mawella
https://www.manorhouseconcepts.com/our-spaces/last-house/

10. 1 – 3 nights in/near Weligama Bay
Malabar Hill
https://malabarhillsrilanka.com/

Cape Weligama
https://www.resplendentceylon.com/capeweligama/

Braganza House
https://www.braganza-house.com/

11. 1 – 3 nights in Galle
Amangalla, an Aman Resort
https://www.aman.com/resorts/amangalla

Taru Villas Rampart Street
https://www.taruvillas.com/rampartstreet-gallefort

Fort Bazaar
https://www.teardrop-hotels.com/fort-bazaar/

Shorter options: The duration of your stay and itinerary can be customized to fit your timeline and preferences.

THE GIFT OF GIVING
A donation to The Asha Trust Sri Lanka helps sustain the efforts of a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and support to underprivileged children and their families. Established in London in 1991, Asha works on the outskirts of Colombo, offering a range of educational and recreational programs for children, including art therapy, mindfulness, dance and music sessions. It also supports children with disabilities, helping families access specialized care. In July 2022, the trust launched the Family Food Challenge, seeking donations to provide essential food supplies to families facing hardship due to rising inflation.
https://www.ashatrust.co.uk/

To Plan and Book Your Travel

To book your business and leisure travels worldwide, call David Rubin and his team at DavidTravel. In 1996, David moved from a successful law practice, followed a deep passion for travel, and launched his travel company. For more than a decade, David has been on both the Travel + Leisure Magazine “A-List” and the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine “Specialist List” of the best travel advisors in the world. DavidTravel delivers unparalleled style, attention to detail, and insider access, uniquely responding to each client’s goals, budget, interests and dreams.
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