Sri Lanka: The Jewel of the Indian Ocean
Sri Lanka is a land of extraordinary contrasts and profound beauty. This island nation, often called the “Jewel of the Indian Ocean,” offers a journey through ancient history, lush tropical landscapes, and a vibrant cultural and spiritual heritage. Our curated itineraries immerse your clients in a world where ancient kingdoms lie in verdant jungles, and golden beaches give way to rolling tea plantations. It’s a complete travel experience that blends serene nature, deep-rooted culture, and thrilling adventure.
Sri Lanka: A Premier Wildlife Destination
A Premier Wildlife Destination!
Despite its small size, Sri Lanka is a global biodiversity hotspot and a premier destination for wildlife lovers. Its diverse ecosystems, from dense jungle to open grasslands and marine sanctuaries, are home to an incredible array of species. This incredible diversity is best experienced in the island’s world-renowned national parks and reserves. In Yala National Park, clients can witness one of the highest leopard densities on earth, while Udawalawe National Park is celebrated as the best place to see large herds of wild elephants year-round. For a truly iconic event, Minneriya & Kaudulla National Parks are famous for “The Gathering,” an annual event where hundreds of elephants congregate around a reservoir. Beyond the land, the waters off Mirissa offer one of the best locations in the world for ethical whale and dolphin watching.
This unparalleled wealth of life includes:
- 125 species of mammals, including the Sri Lankan Elephant and the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard.
- Over 435 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and home to many endemic species.
- A remarkable marine fauna, with a large population of blue whales and dolphins just off the coast.
This magnificent variety of life, combined with our expert guidance, ensures a wildlife experience unlike any other.
Regions: Know More About Sri Lanka!
The Cultural Triangle:
Ancient Kingdoms
We open the doors to the heart of Sri Lanka’s imperial saga. The Cultural Triangle is a living museum of history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We provide exclusive access to the iconic rock fortress of Sigiriya, the intricate cave temples of Dambulla, and the sprawling ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa. This region also provides unique wildlife encounters, from private safaris in Minneriya National Park, famous for “The Gathering” of elephants, to intimate sightings of the toque macaque monkeys that famously inhabit the ruins of Polonnaruwa.
The Hill Country:
Serenity in the Clouds
Journey to a world of temperate climate and spectacular scenery. Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is a serene escape where emerald green tea plantations carpet rolling mountains. We curate bespoke experiences that allow clients to visit historic tea factories and ride the famous scenic train through mist-shrouded valleys. Beyond its majestic landscapes, this region is a haven for birdwatchers and naturalists, with a high concentration of endemic bird species and the rare Sambar deer, which roam the grasslands of Horton Plains National Park.
The Southern Coast:
Tropical Bliss
The southern coast offers a journey into a world of tropical serenity and maritime charm. The historic fort of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Beyond the history, this region is a prime location for thrilling natural adventures. We organize unforgettable whale-watching excursions from Mirissa to spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins, and curate exceptional leopard-spotting safaris in the nearby Yala National Park.
Sri Lanka's Travel Tips & Useful Information
A journey to Sri Lanka is a profound experience, blending incredible diversity with a vibrant cultural and spiritual heritage. To ensure your clients’ trip is seamless and stress-free, here is some essential information.
Essential Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Sri Lanka's Adventure with Tigerwalah Luxe
Visa and Immigration
All visitors require a visa to visit Sri Lanka. More information on the application process can be found on the official government website.
Key Practicalities
- Local Time: GMT +5:30 hours.
- Currency: The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Notes are in denominations of 5,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, and 20.
- Telephone Code: The international direct dialling code for Sri Lanka is +94.
- Electricity: The standard voltage is 220-240V.
Language
Sinhala and Tamil are the main spoken languages, although English is also widely spoken in all tourist areas.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on which part of the country you’re going to. It’s a year-round destination with consistent warmth and lots of sunshine, with temperatures averaging between 31°C at their highest and 22°C at their lowest. It’s normally hotter in coastal areas and the lowlands than it is in areas with higher altitude. Showers can occur at any time.
- The southwest coast is best between December and April, before its monsoon season starts.
- The East Coast and the north are less humid between May and September, when their monsoon season is over.
- The central hills remain cooler all year round, and we’d only recommend avoiding them in October and November, when the rainfall is less predictable.
Health and Safety
Vaccinations: They are not mandatory, but the WHO recommends several vaccinations for travellers going to Sri Lanka. Please consult a doctor before the visit for more information.
Cultural Etiquette
- Respectful Attire: When visiting temples and religious sites, clients should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
- Footwear: It is customary to remove shoes and hats when entering a temple or a private home.
- Photography: It is polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people. Be respectful and mindful, especially at religious sites.
Connectivity and Airport
- Airport: Most airlines have direct connectivity with Colombo airport (Bandaranaike International Airport – CM B). Some countries can be connected through connecting flights via Dubai, Singapore, and Malaysia.
- Popular Cell Carriers: The most popular mobile carriers are SLT-Mobitel, Airtel, and Dialog Axiata.