Sri Lanka
in Asia

Though Anuradhapura has its fair share of historical sites to visit, the Abhayagiri Vihara should not be missed. As one of the most extensive ruins in the world, this ancient monastery built between 29-17 BC is still considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites. 

We've all been there. Sometimes you just crave pizza. AQUA Pizza is our go-to when we're hunting for that fine Neapolitan crust. With a few spots dotted around Sri Lanka, you almost don't need to look so far. 

A visit to Balaji Dosai should be high on that agenda, even if it is just to sample some of the best dosas in the area. What is more, this whole spot is dedicated to all things veggie. 

Barefoot has been around since 1964 and with that it's become somewhat of a Colombo local. Swing on by to this urban oasis for a drink in the courtyard and whatever you do, don't miss out on the Sunday Jazz. 

Cafe Chill is a roadside cafe that has become somewhat of a travellers hub in Ella. They do everything from local cuisine to a hearty bowl of spaghetti, but what we really love about this place is the atmosphere. Swing on by for a coffee in the morning, a beer in the evening and you're sure to have a blast. 

If you're keen for a therapeutic couples retreat or a quiet place in nature to hide from chaos, you're in for a treat at Club Villa Bentota in Sri Lanka. Indulge in this paradisiac boutique after a day in the sea. Once sun-kissed and rosy with a cocktail or too, finish the day in their extraordinary spa. 

Families, solo travellers, lovers and friends. Dots Bay House can be an idyllic retreat, a party house or a surfers paradise. We could start every day with the Dots Bay jungle yoga flow. 

You really are above the clouds at the Dream Cliff Mountain Resort. For the adventurers or the peace seekers, a stay here is as close to nature as you can quite possibly get. Zip-line over the hills, dip in the waterfall pool and wind down with a book on the panoramic terrace.  

Who doesn't love a good cuppa. And whilst a PG Tips suffices for those days at home, a trip to Glenloch Tea Factory when in Sri Lanka sounds a whole lot more interesting. Take a tour of the beautiful plantations but don't leave without trying and testing all the varieties. 

When Geoffrey Bawa designs a hotel, you know it's going to be spectacular. Surrounded by tree-after-tree, Heritance Kandalama is an eco-retreat, a wildlife oasis and an enchanting escape. 

This horseshoe bay is something we'd conjure up in dreams alone. Pick up a fresh juice from one of the huts, grab your board and get surfing. If you're after some less ambitious waves this could be the spot for you. 

The legend of the "Isurumuniya Lovers" prevails and so does its stone carving at the Isurumuniya Temple. This historical site located close to the Tisa Wewa is definitely one to add to the list. 

An outdoor retreat, but make it luxury. Malabar Hill is easily one of the most stunning, eco-retreats out there. Located on a jungle-covered hill top, begin your day with laps in the infinity pool, soak up the sun on your roof terrace and dine on some of the finest Sri Lankan grub. The villas may be private but don't be surprised if you see a monkey, mongoose or Malabar hornbill making itself at home.  

There's always time in the day for a smoothie bowl. Especially if it's topped with that perfect-crunch granola, a heavy dousing of nut butter and the freshest seasonal fruit. Malu Poke's bowls, sandos and coffees never disappoint. 

It's a Sri Lankan icon. Ministry of Crab celebrates the Sri Lankan crab in all forms: from local lagoon crab doused in chill or pepper to a spicy curried crab. Is it worth the hype? Order the mud crab, the clay pot prawn curry and some traditional wood-fired Kade bread, and get back to us.

A wildlife phenomenon if we ever did see one. Though you will have to arrange a safari tour for this activity, the elephant gathering in Minneriya National Park is a sight worth seeing. Head to the lake between July and October to see the elephants bathing, grazing and playing.

A space which is quite literally amidst nature. Wake up amongst the treetops of Hiriketiya, pad barefoot to the shore and have your morning coffee surrounded by a curation of artworks from MOND's latest art residency. Now that's a stay worth having. 

The Nine Arches Bridge (or, Bridge in the Sky) is an astonishing feat of architecture built upon a nine-degree curve and ever-so steep hill. Though, as a result the views are spectacular. 

For a view like you get at the top of Pidurangala Rock we'd happily hike for mile-after-mile. Though the summit is astonishing at any time of day, we'd recommend heading out for a sunrise stroll. 

A buffet like you never did see. As the name gives away, Rice 'n' Curry serves up some spicy ol' curries served with a generous scoop of sticky rice. The kotthu and coconut roti are a must. 

With more than 4000 species of plants and renowned for its collection of orchids, the 147 acre Royal Botanic Gardens is sure to have even an anthophile wondering what is what. 

Though only the ancient ruins survive, this 12th century AD palace was once a towering seven story, 1000 room marvel. It's hard to imagine, though makes for an intriguing visit!

High in the hills is Santani. A wellness retreat and peace-seekers haven, a stay at this "Architecture of Silence" will have you feeling at one with nature and totally recharged. It's hard to resist those lush green acres and the infinity pools overlooking the Dumbara mountains. 

Chances are that you've heard of Stick No Bills®️, but did you know that the flagship store is in Galle. Pop on by for a browse of their epic collection of 1960 to modern day Sri Lanka art.