A Luxury Travel Designer’s Guide to Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gems

In this blog edition of Discover, we follow the footsteps of luxury travel designer Tess Foxwood as she explores the vibrant culture, wild landscapes, and timeless elegance of Sri Lanka. Known for curating immersive and soulful journeys, Tess shares her firsthand experience navigating this jewel of the Indian Ocean – a destination rich in history, flavor, and unspoiled beauty.

Sri Lanka: My Escape into Wildlife, Scenic Train Rides & Culinary Delights

As a travel specialist and nature lover, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that blend luxury, adventure, and culture—and Sri Lanka delivers all three in spades. Just a short flight from Singapore, this vibrant island offers everything from breathtaking wildlife experiences and scenic train journeys to world-class cuisine and five-star stays.

If you’re seeking a more accessible alternative to an African safari, Sri Lanka is the perfect choice. With its diverse wildlife, tropical landscapes, and indulgent experiences, this destination is tailor-made for discerning travellers who crave both comfort and discovery.

Wildlife Encounters: Nature at its Finest

Sri Lanka is home to some of Asia’s most unique wildlife experiences, offering unforgettable encounters in pristine national parks.

During my journey, I visited Yala National Park, a haven for animal lovers. We were lucky enough to spot a leopard, elephants, wild boars, sloth bears, and a variety of birds in their natural habitats.

On my next visit, I can’t wait to explore Minneriya National Park, especially during The Gathering (June to September), when hundreds of elephants come together at watering holes—an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

For oceanic adventures, Mirissa, on the southern coast, offers whale-watching tours. On these tours, you might see blue whales, sperm whales, and playful pods of dolphins.

Hikes, Waterfalls & Rocks

Bring your hiking boots! Sri Lanka’s mountainous terrain offers spectacular trails for every level.

We climbed Little Adam’s Peak in Ella, an easier, hour-long hike that rewards you with stunning panoramic views. Though May’s heat and humidity were a little intense, a refreshing swim in nearby waterfalls made it all worthwhile.

Other must-see natural sites include:

* Ella Rock – A more challenging trek with dramatic views

* Diyaluma Falls – Ideal for a cool dip and photo-worthy moments

* Sigiriya Rock Fortress – A UNESCO-listed marvel with history and vistas combined

Scenic Train Journeys: Through Tea Country

One of the most iconic experiences in Sri Lanka is the train ride from Kandy to Ella, which is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

We chose a first-class cabin with panoramic windows for added comfort, but the second-class option offers the whole sensory experience: open windows, fresh mountain air, and friendly local vendors selling warm, spicy street snacks.

Along the way, expect sweeping views of tea plantations, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls.

Culinary Delights: A Flavorful Journey

Sri Lanka’s food scene is a spicy symphony of flavours. As someone who enjoys heat while my partner prefers milder meals, I was impressed by how customisable the food was. Most restaurants happily adjusted the spice level to our preferences.

Some Culinary Highlights:

• Traditional Rice and Curry – A variety of spiced vegetable and meat dishes

• Street Food at Galle Face Green – Try isso vadei (prawn fritters) and kottu roti

• Dilmah Tea Lounge, Colombo – Gourmet teas paired with elegant bites

• Ministry of Crab – A luxury dining experience focused on Sri Lanka’s famous mud crabs

• Anantara Tangalle – Offers farm-to-plate experiences and market-to-table cooking classes

Surf’s Up: From Beginners to Pros

Sri Lanka is a year-round surfing destination with ideal conditions on both coasts:

• Southwest Coast – Best from November to April

• East Coast – Best from May to September

We spent four nights in Arugam Bay, where you can surf straight from the beach or head to nearby Elephant Rock or Pottuvil Point, often passing wild elephants en route—surfing meets safari!

Luxury Stays: Where Comfort Meets Wilderness

From beachside villas to jungle retreats, Sri Lanka’s accommodations elevate every experience.

Top Picks for Luxurious Retreats:

• Amanwella (Tangalle) – Beachfront serenity with private plunge pools and ocean views

• Ceylon Tea Trails (Hatton) – Colonial charm in the highlands with butler service and tea estate tours

• Uga Chena Huts (Yala) – Where luxury meets wildlife: thatched-roof cabins, private pools, holistic spa, and guided safaris

• Spice Trails (Arugam Bay) – A boutique 3-star gem with 12 individual bungalows, a no-TV policy, and easy access to the surf scene

We stayed at Spice Trails and loved the laid back atmosphere, thoughtful design, and proximity to everything which I feel is luxury in its own quiet way.

When to Visit: Seasonal Travel Tips

Best Time by Region:

• West & South Coasts + Hill Country (Colombo, Galle, Ella, Yala):
  December to April – Ideal weather for sightseeing and safaris

• East Coast & Northern Region (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, Jaffna):
  May to September – Great for surfing and beach escapes

Planning to explore both coasts? Aim for January to March for the most balanced weather across the country.

Ready to Experience Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is the perfect blend of luxury and adventure—whether you’re sipping tea in the highlands, surfing on golden beaches, indulging in private safaris, or dining under the stars.

Let us design your dream journey. From curated itineraries to exclusive experiences, we’ll take care of every detail.

Reach out today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable Sri Lankan escape.

Email Tess at [email protected] or call 1300 747 100.

Or click here for Tess