Discover the essence of Sri Lanka

Diverse and captivating, Sri Lanka delivers it all pristine beaches, rolling tea estates, cultural treasures, and remarkable wildlife.

Heritage

Sigiriya at sunrise

Climb the ancient rock fortress as morning light rises over jungle and mist, revealing one of Sri Lanka’s most unforgettable views and a powerful glimpse into its ancient past.
Heritage

The Kandy to Ella journey

Travel through tea plantations and dramatic highlands on one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, where every turn reveals another breathtaking view.
Heritage

Wild elephants on safari

Experience close encounters with elephants and rich wildlife in Yala or Udawalawe, where early morning safaris reveal Sri Lanka at its most untamed.
Heritage

Tea country moments

Walk through misty plantations, visit working tea estates and experience the cool, peaceful landscapes of Sri Lanka’s hill country, where life moves at a slower, gentler pace.
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South coast beaches and surf

Unwind along golden beaches and relaxed surf towns, where warm waters, coastal culture and ocean breezes define the rhythm of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.
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Temples and timeless traditions

Discover sacred temples, local rituals and centuries-old traditions that shape daily life across Sri Lanka, offering insight into the island’s deep cultural and spiritual heritage.



 

Flights to Sri Lanka from New Zealand

Fly to Colombo from Auckland or Christchurch. As one of the fastest ways to reach Sri Lanka from New Zealand, Singapore Airlines makes the journey seamless, connecting you efficiently to Colombo via Singapore.

Explore fares and begin your journey to Sri Lanka with Singapore Airlines.


 

Land Packages

Land packages featured as part of The Getaway Edit are operated by Aitken Spence Travels and are subject to their own terms and conditions, including availability and pricing.

The advertised discount on land packages is offered by Aitken Spence Travels and not by Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines is not responsible for the fulfilment, quality, or delivery of these packages.

Customers must contact Aitken Spence Travels directly to enquire, book, and redeem the offer.


 


 

Best times to visit

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, with seasons varying by region.


 

Best places to visit

Energy, culture and contrast

Sri Lanka’s capital blends modern city life with colonial heritage and vibrant local culture. Discover temples, oceanfront promenades, markets and an evolving dining scene.

Do not miss

  • Galle Face Green at sunset
  • Gangaramaya Temple
  • Pettah Market for authentic local life
  • Colombo’s dining and café scene

Ancient Sri Lanka revealed

The historic heart of the island, home to remarkable ancient cities, sacred sites and architectural achievements.

Highlights

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress - most rewarding at sunrise
  • Dambulla Cave Temple with centuries-old murals and statues
  • Polonnaruwa’s preserved royal ruins
  • Anuradhapura, one of the world’s oldest living cities

Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart

Home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy is the cultural and spiritual centre of Sri Lanka, where centuries-old traditions meet timeless architecture.

Experience

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
  • Traditional Kandyan cultural performances
  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
  • Gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country

Scenic highlands and rail journeys

Cooler climates, rolling tea plantations and one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys define Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Unmissable

  • The Kandy to Ella train, best experienced in daylight
  • Nine Arches Bridge
  • Tea plantation and factory visits
  • Little Adam’s Peak hike

Wildlife encounters

Sri Lanka is one of Asia’s leading wildlife destinations, offering close encounters with elephants, leopards and birdlife.

Wildlife highlights

  • Yala National Park - famous for leopard sightings
  • Udawalawe - among the best places to see elephants in the wild
  • Safaris best early morning or late afternoon

Coastline and historic character

Golden beaches, relaxed coastal towns and the storied streets of Galle Fort offer the perfect balance to a Sri Lanka journey.

Top experiences

  • Explore UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
  • Whale watching in Mirissa (seasonal)
  • Surfing in Weligama and Hiriketiya
  • Boutique coastal stays and relaxed beach days


 


 

Before you go


 

Food

Sri Lanka food and local cuisine

Must-try dishes:
  • Rice and curry (varies daily and regionally)
  • Hoppers and egg hoppers
  • Kottu roti
  • Fresh seafood along the coast
  • Ceylon tea in the hill country


 

Best time

How to travel around Sri Lanka

  • Scenic train routes connect major regions and hill country
  • Private drivers offer comfort and flexibility
  • Domestic flights and expressways reduce travel time
  • Compact geography allows multiple regions in one journey


 

Tips

Good to know before you go

  • Travel times can be longer than distances suggest - plan a relaxed pace
  • The hill country is cooler, particularly in the evenings
  • Modest dress is required when visiting temples
  • Cash is useful in smaller towns and local markets
  • Safaris are most active early morning and late afternoon