From City Streets to Safari Scenes
About halfway, we stopped at Lora Café for a quick refresh and lunch break. The café was such a pleasant surprise, bright, airy, and full of delicious smells. We had the choice between a buffet or à la carte, and honestly, both looked amazing. I went for the à la carte and savoured every bite. There’s something about Sri Lankan spices bold yet comforting that just makes food taste like sunshine.
Next up: Minneriya National Park for an elephant safari! I still can’t quite believe what we experienced. As our jeep bumped along the dusty tracks, we spotted our first herd in the distance majestic, gentle giants grazing together by the water. There were babies too, playfully nudging each other and sticking close to their mums. Just when we thought the moment couldn’t get any more special, we saw a crocodile sunbathing by the lake! It felt like stepping straight into a nature documentary.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky in fiery shades of orange and pink, we made our way to our hotel for the night, Ailiya Resort and Spa. And wow, what an entrance! Climbing up to reception, we were greeted by the most stunning view an infinity pool that seemed to spill right into the jungle, with the legendary Sigiriya Rock standing proudly in the distance.
The resort has 96 rooms, each one spacious and beautifully styled a mix of modern comfort and Sri Lankan warmth. Families will love the two-bedroom suites, and they even have duplex attic rooms that are perfect for older kids (or anyone who loves a bit of extra space!). After a day full of adventure, the Ayurvedic spa is the perfect way to unwind.
But our night didn’t end there! After a quick refresh, we headed out again to visit Ambu Yaala Hotel a truly inspiring, all-female staffed hotel tucked away in the middle of a mango plantation. It felt like stepping into a secret hideaway, quiet, peaceful, and overlooking the tranquil Kandalama Lake with views of the Sleeping Soldier Mountain in the distance.
The hotel itself is full of character every detail celebrates Sri Lankan culture and craftsmanship. Dinner here was simply beautiful. Each dish was made with locally sourced ingredients, bursting with authentic flavours that told a story of the island.
From bustling city streets to wild safaris and tranquil lakeside dinners, today was a perfect reminder of how diverse and magical Sri Lanka really is. I went to sleep that night feeling grateful, relaxed, and already excited for what tomorrow would bring.