Sri Lanka: My Dream Trip Through Culture, Wildlife & Pure Magic
Some trips change you a little. Sri Lanka? It changes everything.
From misty hills to sun-drenched shores, sacred temples to curious elephants, this 11-day journey through the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” was nothing short of extraordinary.
Day 1 – Arrival & A Stylish Start We landed in Colombo and eased into the trip with a night in the city and dinner at the award-winning Gallery Café—think international dishes, local flavours, and cocktails that could win awards of their own.
Day 2 – Into the Cultural Triangle A scenic drive north brought us to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s sacred ancient capital. We stayed at Uga Ulagalla, a boutique eco-resort set in 58 acres of countryside, where our luxurious chalet (with plunge pool!) offered the perfect post-journey retreat.
Day 3 – Temples, Elephants & Meditation Climbed the 364 steps to the majestic Dambulla Cave Temple, marvelled at ancient murals, and spotted our first wild elephant en route. The day ended spiritually, meditating with a Hermit Monk at Kala Diya Pokuna, followed by a traditional clay-pot meal in a rice paddy pavilion. A day to remember.
Day 4 – Lakeside Breakfast & Hilltop Serenity Sunrise brought birdlife and buffalo on a countryside drive, with a peaceful breakfast by Nacchaduwa Lake. Then, to Santani Wellness near Kandy: clouds drifting past open-air rooms, bonfire cocktails, and a 7-course feast made this a dreamlike escape.
Day 5 – Yoga, River Walks & Spa Bliss A 7am yoga session (so relaxing I may have napped), followed by a guided river walk, wild swimming, and a spa treatment. Santani’s food and hospitality are simply sublime.
Day 6 – Gal Oya: Nature & Tribal Life We journeyed east to Gal Oya Lodge, nestled in pristine wilderness. That evening, we dined with local tribespeople, learning about their culture under a starlit sky. The outdoor bathrooms? A quirky luxury in the wild.
Day 7 – Safari Life Begins An early jungle trek led by naturalists, breakfast by the river, and then off to Yala National Park—famed for the highest leopard density in the world. We stayed at Uga Chena Huts, where elephants roam freely and the beach roars beside the forest. Magical.
Day 8 – Leopards & Sunset Cocktails A dawn safari (Block 5) rewarded us with not one, but two leopards and barely another jeep in sight. Afternoon in Block 1 brought close-up wildlife: monkeys, deer, elephants (and a baby!), followed by sunset drinks on the beach. Bliss.
Day 9 – Turtles & Ocean Villas We waved goodbye to the wilderness and headed to The Six—beachfront villas with ocean views and even a sea turtle sighting. Bonfire dinner under the stars rounded off a peaceful evening.
Day 10 – History, Shopping & a Taste of Arrack Final stop: the charming Galle Fort, a colonial treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site. We explored with a local guide, supporting small businesses and soaking up centuries of history. Stayed at the luxurious Galle Fort Hotel and braved a tasting of arrack (Sri Lanka’s local spirit—strong stuff!).
Day 11 – Farewell, for Now One final scenic ride to the airport, hearts full and spirits high.
Sri Lanka is a land of smiles, simplicity, and soul. Whether you're chasing culture, wellness, adventure or peace—you’ll find it here. I’d go back in a heartbeat.