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Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka is separated from India by the narrow Palk Straits. Marco Polo pronounced it his favourite island, but long before that gentleman-adventurer it was a trading centre of importance, and Greeks and Romans sailed here in search of spices and jewels. With its historical treasures, rich cultural history and stunning scenery Sri Lanka rightly remains a must-see destination.
Whilst the tear drop shaped island is relatively compact, it is a place of real contrast and different experiences. Explore tours to Sri Lanka uncover the ancient capital of Polunnaruwa, with it’s fabulous jungle setting and the magnificent Sigiriya rock which emerges from the flat landscape dominating the surrounding countryside.
For wildlife enthusiasts a visit to the national parks of Yala and Udawalawe offer the chance to see the elusive leopard and herds of wild elephants.
After exploring the cool climate of the scenic highlands and the stunning tea terraces there is the opportunity to spend time on the tropical coastline where small fishing villages dot the shoreline, and stilt-fishermen, broad sandy beaches and outrigger canoes are commonplace.
A visit to the Dutch city of Galle invokes images of the colonial past and is a reminder of wealth that the spice trade brought to this magnificent island.
July and August are known as the 'Season of Festivals' in Sri Lanka and the full moon day of Esala is its climax. Sri Lanka's hill capital of Kandy takes centre stage, hosting a spectacular pageant (known as Perahera) over 10 consecutive nights, each richer and more vibrant than the last. This intense and exciting event, centres on Kandy's famous Relic of the Tooth which is taken out of the temple each night, and paraded around the city in a lively procession of caparisoned elephants, whip crackers and torch bearers and hundreds of Kandyan drummers and dancers. This Buddhist festival is an extremely colourful spectacle and we have reserved seating to ensure an amazing view of the entire procession.
