Unique and Meaningful Experiences in Sri Lanka
Homestays, dinner with local families, scenic train journeys and more
Sri Lanka has so much more to offer than golden beaches and ancient temples, with some incredible moments that make your journey unforgettable. From scenic train rides through emerald hills, learning to cook traditional curries in a local family’s kitchen or drifting above the wild landscapes on a hot air balloon. These experiences reveal a different side of the country and the wonderful people who call this island their home. We have selected some of our favourite meaningful experiences that turn a holiday into a story worth sharing.
Experiences
Ride the train to Ella
Perhaps one of the most iconic experiences in Sri Lanka is joining the friendly locals on a scenic train ride through the lush, green countryside from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. As the train winds through tea plantations and cascading waterfalls, you can enjoy the fresh mountain breeze from the open windows. You’ll be sharing the journey in second class with the locals, sharing smiles and snacks as the vendors pass by and getting an authentic glimpse into everyday life in Sri Lanka.
Eat with a local family
One of the most authentic ways to connect with Sri Lankan culture is by sharing a meal with a local family. You’ll be warmly welcomed into your host’s home to help prepare a traditional meal together, communicating with smiles and broken English. This experience is part of a World Fair Trade-accredited social enterprise that supports local families and allows them to directly benefit from tourism in Sri Lanka.
Stay in Sri Lanka's only female-run hotel
More than just a place to sleep, support a project built on community, equality and empowerment by staying in a hotel run entirely by women. With fewer than 10% of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka being female employees, this is a groundbreaking initiative where women, mostly from rural backgrounds, are equipped with the skills allowing them to reach their potential and build sustainable careers in hospitality.
Pooja Ceremony
Take part in a spiritual experience by joining the daily pooja ceremony, when the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic comes alive with the sounds of drums, the scent of joss sticks and groups of worshippers placing flowers in front of the sacred shrine said to contain the Buddha’s tooth.
Boat safari in Gal Oya
Glide across Sri Lanka’s largest lake on a boat safari through the wild Gal Oya National Park. Watch elephants gracefully swim between islands and crocodiles basking in the sun, as colourful birdlife soars above. Gal Oya is one of the least-visited national parks in Sri Lanka, so you can explore this untouched wilderness with hardly another person in sight, making every wildlife encounter even more special.
Hot air balloon ride
If you’re ready for an early start in exchange for an unforgettable experience, then we can arrange a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Sri Lanka’s lush, green countryside. Rising above the trees just as the sun starts to rise, you’ll float over vast fields, emerald lakes and dense jungle as locals wake up and start their day. After the flight, you’ll be welcomed back on land with a tasty picnic breakfast.
