We have just returned from a truly wonderful month-long trip to Sri Lanka, impeccably organized by Amanda at Mandala World Travel. Having used Amanda’s services multiple times before, we knew we were in safe hands. But once again, she managed to exceed our already high expectations! Every detail was flawlessly planned, and the trip unfolded seamlessly, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty, culture, and adventure that Sri Lanka has to offer.
A Warm Welcome in Colombo
Our journey began with a stay in a charming boutique residence in Colombo. A city that served as the perfect introduction to Sri Lanka. The accommodations were intimate and luxurious, with only four rooms ensuring a personalized experience. The service and food were exceptional, setting the tone for the rest of our travels. Colombo itself, with its colonial charm, provided a gentle adjustment to the tropical climate as we transitioned from freezing London temperatures to the warmth of Sri Lanka.
A Journey to the North – Jaffna and Mannar
A highlight of our adventure was the train journey to Jaffna, a scenic eight-hour ride through stunning landscapes. While the train trundled along at a leisurely pace, it only added to the charm of the experience. Jaffna offered a fascinating insight into the island’s history, particularly with our stay in a boutique hotel that once served as a base for Tamil Tiger leadership during the Sri Lankan civil war. We explored Buddhist and Hindu temples, encountered an abundance of migratory birdlife, and appreciated the untouched nature of this region.
From Jaffna, we moved to an eco-lodge in Mannar, an unspoiled haven for birdwatching and discovering the remote northern and northwestern parts of the country. This part of the trip was a true adventure, immersing us in the raw beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.
Cultural and Archaeological Marvels
The next leg of our journey took us to the iconic cultural triangle—Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Dambulla. We stayed in a stunning eco-lodge by a lake. This former Governor’s residence was stayed at by Queen Elizabeth II, and was in a magical setting that made this part of the trip even more unforgettable. Exploring ancient ruins and intricate rock temples was both awe-inspiring and humbling. A half-day wildlife safari here proved to be a major highlight, offering up-close encounters with Sri Lanka’s diverse fauna.
The Enchanting Highlands – Kandy and Ella
Our journey continued to Kandy, where we stayed at the exquisite Kandy House, a beautifully restored colonial governor’s residence. This was a perfect base for visiting the famous Temple of the Tooth and exploring the vibrant city. From Kandy, we embarked on an eight-hour train ride to Ella. A booking mix-up landed us in second class instead of the air-conditioned first class, but in hindsight, this was a blessing in disguise. With open windows and fresh mountain air, we enjoyed uninterrupted views of breathtaking tea plantations and rolling hills.
Arriving in Ella, we settled into Nine Skies, our favorite accommodation of the trip. Perched high in the hills with mesmerizing views, impeccable service, and unparalleled comfort, it was an absolute dream. This former plantation owner’s house provided the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility.
Wildlife Adventures and Coastal Retreat
Next, we visited Yala National Park, staying at Cinnamon Lodge. While the park itself has become quite commercialized with an overwhelming number of safari jeeps, we were still fortunate enough to witness some incredible wildlife. However, we would recommend exploring alternative, less crowded parks for a more intimate experience with nature.
To round off our adventure, we spent time at KK Beach and KK Club, an idyllic beachfront retreat. With its serene atmosphere and easy access to the historic city of Galle, it was the perfect way to relax before our return home. We took in the fascinating history of Galle with an exceptional guide and even caught a glimpse of some cricket action at the national stadium.
The Perfect Finale – Negombo
As our trip drew to a close, we spent our final night in a boutique hotel in Negombo. Conveniently located near the airport. It was the ideal place to unwind before heading back to London, reflecting on the incredible memories we had made over the past month.
A Seamlessly Orchestrated Adventure
None of this would have been possible without Amanda and Mandala World Travel. The meticulous planning, the thoughtful itinerary, the outstanding local partners, and our exceptional driver, Edward, all contributed to making this trip one of the best we’ve ever had. Edward’s professionalism, kindness, and deep knowledge of Sri Lanka made every step of the journey smooth and enjoyable.
We can’t recommend Amanda highly enough. If you’re looking for a seamless, unforgettable and classy travel experience, Mandala World Travel is the way to go. Thank you for an absolutely magical month in Sri Lanka!
Mike and Fiona Pendleton
