Sri Lanka, the ancient Ceylon, is a jewel of Southeast Asia, capable of enchanting with its wild nature, millennia-old history, and the warm hospitality of its people. My journey was a succession of emotions, unique experiences, and breathtaking landscapes, which I want to share with you in this detailed account.
Day 1: An Unforgettable Safari in Minneriya National Park
As soon as I landed at Colombo Airport, I rented a car with a driver to reach Habarana, a strategic location for exploring the north of the country. In the afternoon, I headed to Minneriya National Park for a jeep safari. Crossing vast plains and shimmering lakes, I spotted herds of elephants moving gracefully just a few meters from me. Watching them interact, play, and refresh themselves in the water was an emotional moment that made me reflect on the importance of conservation for these extraordinary animals. The nature here is still pristine, and the atmosphere of the safari, with the sun setting on the horizon, made this experience even more magical.
Day 2: The Majesty of Sigiriya and the Charm of Polonnaruwa
The day started early with a visit to the Sigiriya Fortress, one of the most incredible attractions in Sri Lanka. The climb was a unique experience: 1,200 steps winding up the rock, some steep, others carved directly into the stone, leading to the summit. Along the way, dozens of curious and mischievous monkeys jumped from branch to branch, watching tourists with almost amused expressions, ready to snatch an unattended snack. Reaching the top, the panorama was breathtaking: an endless expanse of lush jungle, with a tapestry of trees and rivers winding through the landscape. Here, among the ruins of the ancient royal palace, I could imagine the life of the past, with the king and his court reigning from this spectacular eagle’s nest. In the afternoon, I took a tuk-tuk to reach Polonnaruwa, one of the medieval capitals of the country. Walking among ancient ruins and gigantic Buddha statues carved into the rock made me feel like an explorer of the past. The atmosphere is incredible: time seems to have stopped here.
Day 3: Dambulla, Spices, and the Spirituality of Kandy
After a short drive, I arrived in Dambulla, where I visited the Dambulla Cave Temple. Here, among frescoed caves and imposing Buddha statues, I breathed in an atmosphere of deep spirituality. The view from the top over the valley was spectacular. Next, I stopped at a spice garden, an experience that awakened my senses: intense aromas, bright colors, and detailed explanations of the properties of plants used in Ayurvedic medicine. In Kandy, in addition to visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, I had one of the most authentic experiences of the trip. After shopping at the local market, I met a local resident who invited me to his home. There, with the help of his mother, a lively and charming elderly woman, I learned to cook local dishes. Between laughter, stories, and the rich aroma of spices filling the kitchen, I experienced a moment of pure connection, an experience I will always cherish. The evening ended with a traditional dance performance in Kandy, an experience that immersed me completely in Sri Lankan culture. The dancers, in their colorful and intricately designed costumes, moved to the hypnotic rhythm of drums, telling stories and legends through spectacular choreography. The grand finale, with dancers walking on burning coals, was a moment of pure adrenaline and amazement.
Day 4: The Magic of Nuwara Eliya and the Tea Plantations
To reach Nuwara Eliya, I took a scenic train ride from Kandy. The journey, through mist-covered mountains and endless tea plantations, was an experience in itself. In Nuwara Eliya, I visited a tea factory, where I learned about the meticulous process of tea leaf processing and enjoyed one of the finest cups of tea of my life. In the afternoon, I went trekking in Horton Plains National Park, walking to the famous World’s End, a spectacular cliff with a seemingly infinite view.
Day 5: The Most Beautiful Train Journey in the World
The train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella was one of the most scenic experiences of the trip. I passed through misty forests, ancient bridges, and tea-covered hills before reaching Ella, a small paradise for nature lovers. The journey itself was an adventure: open windows, the wind in my hair, and locals sharing fresh fruit and genuine smiles. One of the unique aspects of this train is that the doors remain open for the entire journey, allowing travelers to sit on the edge, lean out slightly, and take the iconic photos with their legs dangling over the breathtaking scenery. The train moves slowly, allowing you to enjoy every curve of the route through dark tunnels, suspended bridges, and incredible valley views.
Day 6: Trekking to Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge
In Ella, I went trekking to Little Adam’s Peak, a trail surrounded by lush vegetation that leads to a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. It was one of the most beautiful moments of the trip, with the sun filtering through the clouds and the silence broken only by the sound of the wind. After the trek, I headed to the famous Nine Arches Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks. Walking along the bridge, with the deep green jungle all around, was thrilling. I waited for the train to pass, a magical moment that turned the landscape into a perfect postcard. In the afternoon, I reached Rawana Falls, a stunning waterfall where I found refreshment after the hike.
Day 7-8: Safari in Yala and the Colonial Charm of Galle
Leaving Ella, I traveled to Yala National Park, renowned for its incredible variety of wildlife. The safari was a unique experience: among elephants, crocodiles, and the rare Sri Lankan leopard, every corner of the park held a new thrill. We spent much of the afternoon strategically staking out locations where it was most likely to spot a leopard, with the guide explaining their behaviors and hunting habits. Time was passing, the sun was starting to set, and the sky was turning orange when finally, just as we were about to leave the park, we saw it: a magnificent leopard moving silently among the rocks, its elegant silhouette standing out against the last light of the day. A moment of pure magic and adrenaline, the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable safari. The next day, I visited Galle, a city with a colonial soul, featuring its cobbled streets, the Dutch fort, and colorful houses. Walking along the fort walls at sunset was the perfect way to conclude my Sri Lankan adventure.
