Why Your Next Small Group Holiday Should Be In Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a welcoming destination, especially for small groups.

Visit historic temples, ancient fortresses and lively markets together while experiencing the country’s warm hospitality. A group trip here offers excitement and beauty in equal measure.

Take an open-top Jeep tour in Colombo

Gangarama Temple was built in the 19th century

To get a flavour of Sri Lanka, weave through the capital, Colombo, by open-top Jeep. Sometimes referred to as the Garden City of the East, the capital is home to marketplaces, colonial buildings and temples, including the Gangarama Buddhist Temple. Once you’ve finished sightseeing on wheels, finish your tour with a sunset stroll along the Galle Face Drive promenade.

1. Sample the catch of the day at the Negombo Fish Market Complex

Market, Seafood

Visit the Negombo Fish Market Complex on a weekend to pick up a bargain

Negombo is a city less than an hour from Colombo that is home to a buzzing fish market, right on the beach. Fishermen sell their catch here from huge nets – and they’re never short of business on hectic weekday mornings. To grab a bargain, head to the market on a weekend when it’s less crowded.

2. Climb Sigiriya Rock

Archaeological site, Ruins

Sigiriya Rock is more than 180 metres high

Based near the town of Dambulla, this ancient rock fortress promises an unforgettable experience. Motivate everyone in your small group to make it to the summit. Even on the hottest of days, the view is well worth the climb. At more than 180 metres high, this revered site in the country’s Central Province was once the location of a royal palace. Sigiriya Rock’s staircase is still covered in detailed frescoes depicting mysterious ladies. After the climb, sip a lemonade while walking through the manicured gardens with your group.

Visit a tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is home to a number of tea plantations

Ceylon tea is an integral part of life in parts of Sri Lanka. Master the art of choosing young leaves by visiting a plantation in Nuwara Eliya and picking your own plants. They often have lovely courtyards for an afternoon tea break, too. Gather the group and savour the flavours of simple, sophisticated hot teas in delicate china cups.

3. Walk through UNESCO hotspots

Archaeological site

The white-painted Galle Lighthouse stands amid several tall palm trees under blue skies

There are eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, including the ancient cities of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, and the old town of Galle. In Polonnaruwa, you can take a group trip to see palace ruins, stupas and Buddha rock sculptures. Galle’s blend of South Asian and European influences is evident in its architecture, with the Old Gate, the Old Dutch Hospital and Zwart Fort particular highlights. After visiting a few of the 400 places of historical importance in Galle Fort town, explore the area’s burgeoning foodie scene, which includes juice bars and upscale seafood restaurants.

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