Sri Lanka had always come highly recommended by friends and clients, so it was only a matter of time before I gave in to the island’s magnetic pull. Asia has always held a special place in my heart, and Sri Lanka — with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless variety — promised something different. From moonlit swims to ancient temples, baby turtles to misty highlands, the island had something for every part of me.
Most travellers are drawn to the cultural triangle — a route rich in history and architectural wonders — but we were curious about what lay beyond. We were looking for quieter roads, softer footprints, and elephants doing something extraordinary – like a backstroke!
Sri Lanka may look small on a map, but it’s packed with experiences. You need at least ten days to scratch the surface properly. With a bit less time, we had to be selective. The cultural highlights were a must — temples, heritage, the layers of history — but for our safari, we skipped the familiar and headed east to explore less-travelled roads.
We chose Gal Oya National Park, one of the only places in the world where you can watch wild elephants swimming. That image alone, of elephants gliding through open water, was enough to seal the deal. And with our organisers, Travel Design and the beautiful properties of Thema Collection handling the logistics, the journey unfolded effortlessly.
We began at Aliya Resort & Spa, arriving just as the sky was painted with a golden dusk. A traditional oil ceremony and gentle welcome grounded us after our travels, a soft start to what would be an inspiring trip. Aliya’s highlight was the infinity pool — stretching out with the Lion Rock rising in the background, it became our escape after the day’s adventures. Whether we were climbing ruins or avoiding the midday heat, that jungle-framed pool was our salvation, an oasis.
Our first early morning was spent climbing Sigiriya Rock. The climb began in the stillness before dawn, when the only company was birds slowly waking. Built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa, the fortress rises nearly 200 metres from the forest floor and offers sweeping views, ancient frescoes, and the famous Lion's Gate carved into stone.
Post-hike, we restored ourselves with a swim and a nap before heading out for a sunset visit to Dambulla Cave Temple. This vast temple complex houses over 150 statues of the Buddha, accompanied by vivid murals that evoke centuries past. It’s serene, moving, and unquestionably worth the effort. We ended the day with a traditional Sri Lankan Dal curry – it was delicious and something you really shouldn’t miss while touring the island. Actually, you can’t avoid it even if you try – they are served everywhere! So, we decided to join the fun and started eating Sri Lankan breakfast at every hotel from day one. It became our personal challenge to find the best one!
Before setting off for Gal Oya, we stopped in Polonnaruwa, a medieval capital rich with ruins. The remnants of palaces, temples, and the serene Gal Vihara Buddha carvings gave us a quiet but powerful sense of Sri Lanka’s regal past. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours here, but we slowed down and fully immersed ourselves in the history. After that, we tried to make up for it on the road to Gal Oya — not an easy task with the traffic and local Vesak Day celebrations happening all over the island! It was fascinating to see local celebrations on every corner, with people sharing food and ice cream as they enjoyed the day with their families.
We arrived at Wild Glamping Gal Oya on Vesak Day, after hours of driving along quiet roads surrounded by lush greenery and rice paddies. Greeted with festive drinks and warm smiles, we were immediately whisked into the wilderness by jeep, a fitting start to what would be the most memorable leg of our journey.
We had the privilege of meeting a Vedda chief, a guardian of Sri Lanka’s indigenous heritage. It was humbling and deeply grounding. Gal Oya is more than a lodge — it felt like a philosophy. The land is respected, the people honoured. We met a Veddha elder, a quiet and dignified man whose presence added depth to our visit.
Let’s talk glamping: our tent was nothing short of luxury. Spacious, spotless, with eco-conscious design. It was airy, elegant, and sustainable, built with care by local hands. With a fan or A/C (because balance matters) and a view of the forest, it was the sort of place that made you slow down without even trying. Comfort meets conscious design in the best way.
Our days were filled with nature walks, visits to the organic garden, where they grow everything right behind the tents. After exploring the glamping grounds, learning about the community and soaking in the peaceful surroundings, we finally set off on the much-anticipated adventure: a boat safari in search of swimming elephants.
Our guide, Satun, and the naturalist, Janith, took us across the lake, passing islands full of birds. We saw pelicans, spoonbills, sea eagles, and vibrant local birds, including the Ceylon Green Pigeon and Crimson Barbet. Then, just when we were told it probably wouldn’t happen because of the high water during monsoon season, it did: an elephant swimming through the lake, calm and graceful, like something out of a dream! We followed quietly from a distance, amazed and full of joy.
To top it off, we had lunch on an island, just as a family of elephants emerged on the shore. Our boat anchored, the crew unpacked a dreamy picnic, and we sat there, eating our picnic slowly and whispering among ourselves. It may have been the best meal of the trip — simple, fresh, with an unforgettable view!
Evenings brought glowing skies, cooling swims, and our ongoing quest for Sri Lankan curries. One night, with no other guests around, the team arranged a moonlit dinner for us. Thoughtful, calm, and unforgettable! Gal Oya was the place we didn’t want to leave. Every moment felt special, every experience meaningful.
We left the wild behind and headed into the hills, arriving in Ella — a laid-back town with a relaxed, backpacker vibe. Sitting 1,000 metres above sea level, the cooler air was a refreshing change. It rained (the only time during our trip), so we spent the day enjoying good food, sipping coffee, and exploring quirky little cafés. The next morning, the sun returned, and we hiked to Little Adam’s Peak for stunning views, followed by a quick visit to the Nine Arch Bridge, where postcard-worthy scenes and friendly hikers greeted us along the way. If you can, treat yourself to a hotel with a view, like ours. It’s totally worth it for those unforgettable sunrise moments!
Our last stop was Parangi, a coastal charmer in Weligama that felt more like a spice trader's villa than a hotel. It was the perfect coastal exhale at the end of our trip! This stylish boutique stay, inspired by the spice traders and explorers who once sailed here, feels more like a lovingly curated home than a hotel. Our room opened right onto the sea, with a balcony that made it very hard to leave!
Although we only stayed a night, we would have gladly stayed a week. A refreshing swim, a long beach walk, and a memorable breakfast with warm, flavourful curries (it was time for veggie curries!) made the experience complete. Thanks to Samantha, the chef, whose hospitality made a lovely stay even more meaningful. We had a very short stay in Welligama but still managed to see the Coconut Hill, one of the most beautiful places overlooking Mirissa Beach.
One of the trip’s highlights came just a short drive away, at Coconut Beach, where, spontaneously, we witnessed baby turtles being released into the sea — an unforgettable experience that reminded us just how special this island is.
Sri Lanka gave us wonder, peace, and a deeper connection. From walking through ancient sites to watching an elephant swim by, every moment touched us in a special way. Would we return? In a second. With my GoPro packed this time for those underwater elephant shots!
A heartfelt thank you to Travel Design and Thema Collection for creating such a memorable journey — every stop thoughtfully chosen, every detail taken care of. From the carefully selected gifts that became essentials along the way to the beautiful photo collage handed to us by our guide at the end, it all felt personal, generous, and full of heart. A journey we’ll remember always!
Monika travelled to Sri Lanka in May 2025 with Travel Design and Thema Collection – a couple of our partners in Sri Lanka.
So, if you're thinking about visiting Sri Lanka, make sure not to miss these off-the-beaten-track experiences -pack your sense of adventure and an appetite! You can easily fill your days with amazing adventures. Contact Travel Matters today, and we’ll prepare a customised itinerary for you.
(This blog has been written by Monika, Travel Matters’ Senior Travel Advisor. She visited Sri Lanka in May 2025. For more information and details about your next Sri Lanka holiday, please make an Enquiry today!)