Travel Blog

Sri Lanka's weather is shaped by two monsoons, which means there is almost always a sunny coast somewhere on the island. As a general guide, the south and south-west coast (Bentota, Mirissa, Galle) is at its best from roughly December to March, while the east coast tends to shine from around April to September.

The hill country around Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella is usually most comfortable in the drier months early in the year, though mist and a little rain are part of its charm all year round. The cultural triangle around Sigiriya and Anuradhapura is warm and dry for much of the year.

Weather patterns shift from season to season, so tell us your travel dates and we will suggest the best route and order of stops for you.

The scenic train from Nanu Oya station near Nuwara Eliya to Ella winds through tea plantations, tunnels and high viaducts. It is a highlight of our Honeymoon and Tea Country packages, where your chauffeur meets you at Ella station with your luggage so you can simply enjoy the ride.

A few tips: seats can book up in busy seasons, so plan ahead; sit near a door or window for the best views; and carry a light layer, as the hills can be cool and damp. Train tickets are not included in our package price. After checking in at Ella, walk to the Nine Arch Bridge and, if you have the energy, climb Little Adam's Peak for sunset.

The 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic sights, and it rewards an early start. Arriving soon after opening means cooler temperatures, softer light for photographs and fewer people on the narrow stairways.

Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and go at your own pace. If you still have energy afterwards, nearby Pidurangala offers a lovely view back toward Sigiriya. Entry tickets for archaeological sites are not included in our packages, so please budget for them.

A private boat safari on the Bentota River is a relaxed introduction to Sri Lankan wildlife. Glide through quiet mangrove channels and look out for water monitors and a wide variety of birdlife.

Many of our itineraries include a river safari on an easy day at the coast, often paired with a visit to a sea turtle conservation project such as the one at Kosgoda. Early mornings are usually the calmest and the best time for spotting wildlife.

Light, breathable cotton or linen clothing works almost everywhere. For temples, pack outfits that cover your shoulders and knees, and slip-on shoes that are easy to remove at the entrance. Add sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent and a light rain jacket, plus a warm layer for evenings in Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

Before you fly, check that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry and that you have your Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Sri Lanka. We also strongly recommend taking out personal travel insurance when you book.

Ayurveda is Sri Lanka's traditional system of natural healing, and a retreat is as much about rest as it is about treatment. A stay on our wellness package begins with a consultation with a resort doctor, followed by herbal baths, full-body herbal oil massage (Abhyanga) and calming treatments such as Shirodhara.

Days are balanced with sunrise yoga, breathing practice (Pranayama), meditation and organic, farm-to-table meals. Ayurvedic treatments and doctor consultations are arranged with the resort or paid directly, so ask us for details when planning.