The latest hot spot luring globetrotters – with its mix of ancient ruins, tropical jungle landscapes and golden beaches – is Sri Lanka.

Known as a “Lost Paradise”, Sri Lanka has become the new frontier for discerning travellers, as they set their sites on this island nation in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern-most tip of India.

Formerly known as Ceylon, many a traveller may think of “tea” when considering a holiday to this exotic locale. However, Sri Lanka is far more than tea-tastings when it comes to attractions to stir the soul and satisfy the curious. Diverse in its landscape, Sri Lanka ranges from rainforested mountains to arid desert-like plains in its interior and is fringed by shimmering sandy beaches lapped by crystal clear rolling waves.

Ancient Attractions

Dotted with ruins of giant statues of Buddha and long-abandoned palaces, jet setters are starting to discover many of Sri Lanka’s historical temptations, such as the ancient capital Anuradhapura. A must see is the remarkable ancient Buddhist ruins of Sigiriya, located at the summit of a rocky outcrop rising out of the central plains that boasts incredible views. Considered the eighth wonder of the world, Sigiriya is a 5th-century rock fortress, carved from its natural environment that is populated by stunning frescoes, rock carvings, moats, water gardens and shrines.

A Rich Tapestry Of Culture & Food

Known for its regional diversity, Sri Lanka’s culture is a melting pot of its Indian heritage, along with British and European occupation. Britain ruled the island from 1815, until Sri Lanka achieved independence in 1948. Europeans have dwelled on the island since 1505 and on the west coast you’ll find current capital city Colombo, with a rich colonial heritage that mixes races, religions and cultures in an enticing combination of luxury and the everyday.

Local cuisine is exquisite, whereby the boiled rice staple is enriched with a large variety of curries made with meat or vegetables, lentils and fruit. All tastes are catered for with plenty of vegetarian, prawn, fish, goat, mutton and beef curries.

The Way Of Wellness

Following the typical Buddhist culture, wellness is a way of life in Sri Lanka. There are several luxury resorts that offer Ayurvedic treatments, along with yoga practice and body therapies. Immerse yourself in tranquillity in unspoiled, picturesque surroundings and try the many benefits of the yogic way of life that is embroidered into the cultural history of this island nation.

Getting There

Qantas and Singapore Airlines fly daily direct to Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo. From there you can arrange airport transfers with either your travel agency or Villa Getaways when you book an exclusive private luxury villa for the duration of your Sri Lankan stay.

Choosing when to fly depends on what part of Sri Lanka you’re visiting. The north and south are divided by two distinct monsoon seasons providing opposing dry months throughout the year.

Low season is May to August, with rain falling in the south, west and central high country, while the ancient ruins in the north and east stay dry. April to September offer the best weather all-round, but watch out for the busy New Year Celebrations in April whereby the cities are full of bustling crowds. The popular south and west-coast beaches are dry during high season from December to March.

Where To Stay

Villa Getaways offers a selection of stunning private villas on the southern tip of the Island to suit families and groups at surprisingly reasonable prices! Contact Us to know more

Villa Getaways is passionate about getting you and your family to Sir Lanka for a Luxury Getaway to remember.  Make sure you get in touch with our Sir Lankan Agent to learn more about this exciting destination.

Words by Jennifer McCarthy @ JM Online Copywriting