What It’s Really Like to Visit Sri Lanka for the First Time

Hi Reader,

Don’t know about you, but we never really forget the first time we visit a new destination. The first thing we do, is take in our surroundings, the smells, the sounds and the energy.

But one destination that has really struck our heartstrings is Sri Lanka.

When Shams took me to Sri Lanka for the very first time, it wasn’t the tropical heat that hit me, it was the warm welcome that we received.

Within minutes of arriving at Shams family home, we were swept up in a warm welcome from her family, excited to see Shams and meet me for the first time.

It wasn’t long before fragrant food of rice and curry was planted in front of us, ready to be consumed, chatter filled the air, and it just felt like I have been a part of the family for years rather than minutes.

And that is the type of hospitality you’ll receive in Sri Lanka, whether you’re just walking down the street, or booked into a homestay for a couple of nights. You’ll feel like you’ll be welcomed as if you are family.

This is just my first memory of our trip to Sri Lanka together.

We have many more memorable experiences over the last 15 years, from:

Hiking Pidurangala Rock

On our most recent trip in May last year, we hiked to the top of Pidurangala Rock. Not only was it a challenging hike, with climbing over boulders to reach the top, but after all that hard work, we were rewarded with epic panoramic views of the landscape and Sigiriya Rock in the distance. One we had climbed on a previous trip.

A journey through history

Visiting Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa felt like we were stepping into a time machine.

Ancient stone temples, weathered carving and sacred trees that have stood for over 2000 years. It was just humbling to walk about in the footsteps of bygone years.

An epic train ride into the misty hill country

If you’ve seen the social media posts on Sri Lanka, then you have probably seen some pictures of the colourful train carriages that wind through the lush tea plantations.

But it doesn’t compare to the real thing. Standing in the doorway, as you look down below into the misty valleys below, with the wind in your hair. That is an adventure that can’t be missed.

Wild encounters on safari in Yala National Park

Ever dreamed of going on safari? Then your dreams will come true, as you watch a leopard slowly walk across the road in front of you, elephants strolling through the grass, or spotting bright coloured birds.

Yala is like a wildlife documentary right in front of you.

We have done all of these over the years, and these memories will remain with us for many more years to come.

But the beauty of it, is that each time we visit, we always find something new to discover.

Which is why we want to share a little insight into what we have got up to in Sri Lanka, because we want to share some of the magic with you.

So, tell us....

Has there been a destination that has completely stolen your heart? Do you have a memory that sticks out?

Hit rely, we would love to hear about your memorable stories.

And if you want to check out the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, then head over to our YouTube channel and watch this video, as we take you around Anuradhapura.

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P.S. If Sri Lanka has just made its way onto your bucket list, we’ve put together our ultimate guide to visiting Sri Lanka, packed with tips, must-visit spots, and the kind of local advice you only get after years of travelling there.

Happy travelling

Bev & Shams