As a honeymoon destination, Sri Lanka offers the perfect balance between vibrant culture and feet-up relaxation. The Sri Lankan people are friendly and welcoming, there are stunning boutique properties which won’t break the bank and, being a relatively small island, nothing is ever too far away.
If you are looking to explore Sri Lanka’s rich historical past, the Cultural Triangle is a must. As well as UNESCO World Heritage Sites to discover, you can witness some of the largest gatherings of Asiatic elephants in the wild during the late summer. The cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura are easily explored by bike – a great way to discover ruined stupas, palaces and monasteries surrounded by jungle. Whilst the climb up the imposing rock fortress of Sigiriya can be a challenging one, it’s well worth the effort for the dramatic vistas. The Dambulla Cave Temples located close by are home to impressive Buddha statues and cave temples dating back to the third century BC.
A short drive south through the spice plantations takes you to Kandy. A leisurely train journey will take you up into the tea plantations through small villages and past tea pickers in their colourful saris. No visit to Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is complete without a stay at a converted planter’s bungalow. Ceylon Tea Trails has five of these luxurious properties, all boasting fabulous views. When you’re not wandering the scenic trails, cosy up by your log fire, indulge in afternoon tea and pamper yourself with tea-based spa treatments.
On the south coast, you can go leopard spotting at Yala National Park, preceded by a champagne breakfast. Alternatively, head to the beach at night to see turtle lay their eggs, or take a boat to see blue whale, spinner dolphin and sperm whale. Spend a night (or several) surrounded by the palm-fringed beaches of the southwest coast with a stay at Paradise Road The Villa Bentota. Affordable and stylish, this small boutique hotel is just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Sri Lanka is a little bit of paradise adrift in the Indian Ocean. Our honeymoon specialists can tailor your itinerary towards exploring its verdant tea plantations, relaxing beside its sparkling coast or wandering amidst its bustling towns – or all of the above. A honeymoon on the “Teardrop of India” is sure to move you.