5 ideas for guided tours in Sri Lanka

• Uda Walawe National Park

  Located 180 kilometers from Colombo, Uda Walawe National Park is a vast expanse of grassy savanna where wildlife thrives around a massive reservoir. This semi-arid landscape is home to an incredible variety of animals: crocodiles, chameleons, jackals, buffaloes, monkeys, leopards, and over 200 species of birds. However, it is best known for its population of nearly 800 elephants.

  The park is explored by jeep during a safari lasting about four hours. It is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when wildlife is most active. At the end of the tour, you can also visit the orphaned elephant rehabilitation center, where young elephants are cared for and prepared for their return to the wild.

• Horton Plains National Park

  Located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, in the southern part of the island, this park is accessible from Nuwara Eliya. Its unique landscape consists of mountains, natural springs, grasslands, and cloud forests, also known as montane rainforests.

  Horton Plains National Park is best explored on foot, following a well-marked hiking trail that takes around three to four hours. Several stopping points allow visitors to admire breathtaking views, including the spectacular Baker’s Falls and World’s End, an impressive cliff with a vertigo-inducing drop. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including colorful birds, deer, wild boars, and monkeys. This loop hike is accessible to all, making it ideal for families.

• The Ella Region and Its Tea Plantations

  Discover the stunning landscapes of Ella, a town nestled in the mountainous region of southern Sri Lanka. Traveling by train from Kandy is an experience in itself, offering six hours of breathtaking scenery along the way.

  Once in Ella, for a more peaceful stay, opt for accommodation slightly away from the busy center. Numerous hiking trails await, including the ascent of Little Adam’s Peak, best done early in the morning to enjoy clear views. On the way back, you’ll come across the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a 30-meter-high railway bridge spanning the jungle. Other trekking options take you through the tea plantations of Ella Lipton Seat, Nayabedde, or Haputale.

• Arugam Bay

  On the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, directly opposite Colombo, lies one of the country’s most beautiful beaches: Arugam Bay. This world-renowned surf spot caters to all levels, with Whisky Point reserved for experienced surfers due to its towering waves.

  An ideal starting point for exploring nearby parks and reserves, Arugam Bay has retained its wild and unspoiled character. Here, relaxation is key—enjoy the soft sandy beaches and immerse yourself in nature. Outside the peak season (May to October), the area is almost deserted.

  Early in the morning, you can watch fishermen returning with their catch in colorful boats. In the evening, take a short tuk-tuk ride (about 15 minutes) to Elephant Rock, a rocky outcrop in the middle of the marshlands, offering a spectacular sunset view.

• Kandy

  Once the capital of the Kingdom of Ceylon, Kandy remains the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Located around an artificial lake, the city is considered sacred due to the presence of the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), which is believed to house a relic of the Buddha’s tooth.

  Blending traditional Sinhalese heritage with modern influences, Kandy offers a lively atmosphere and rich history. Its bustling market is a vibrant showcase of colors and scents, creating a welcoming and energetic ambiance. A short distance away, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, boasts an impressive collection of plants from around the world.

  For a nature escape, head to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, also known as the Royal Forest. Just a 15-minute walk from the city center, this tropical jungle is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including playful monkeys and a variety of exotic birds.