Sri Lanka, the emerald island in the Indian Ocean, is an ideal destination for travelers seeking luxury, adventure, and serenity in one place. With golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient temples, this paradise delivers exclusive experiences for the most discerning globetrotters.
Where to stay
Amanwella: A Seaside Sanctuary of Peace
Located on Sri Lanka’s tranquil southern coast, Amanwella is a luxurious escape that blends minimalist design with natural beauty. Part of the prestigious Aman group, the resort offers private suites opening onto terraces with infinity pools and uninterrupted ocean views.
Every detail at Amanwella is designed to evoke absolute serenity—from its architecture inspired by traditional Sri Lankan forms to the seclusion of each villa. Guests can unwind on the private beach, indulge in open-air spa treatments, or explore the surroundings with guided excursions to temples and nature reserves.
Dining is equally elevated: the resort’s gourmet restaurant transforms local ingredients into unforgettable culinary experiences, paired with fine wines and craft cocktails.
Website: https://www.aman.com/resorts/amanwella
Instagram: @amanwella_resort
Ceylon Tea Trails: A Colonial-Era Escape Amid Tea Hills
For a more culturally immersive experience, Ceylon Tea Trails offers luxury lodging in the heart of Sri Lanka’s most iconic tea plantations. Operated by Resplendent Ceylon, the resort features five restored bungalows from the British colonial era, perfectly balancing historic charm and modern comfort.
Each bungalow has its own personality, with views of the rolling Hatton hills and access to private gardens—ideal for sipping the estate’s signature tea at sunrise. Expect period furnishings, fireplaces, and personal butler service in every room.
No visit is complete without diving into the world of Ceylon tea. Guests can tour the plantations with expert guides, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy private tastings of rare blends. Activities also include mountain biking and al fresco dining under the stars.
Website: https://www.resplendentceylon.com/resort/ceylon-tea-trails/
Instagram: @ceylonteatrails
Where to eat
Ministry of Crab: A Tribute to Sri Lanka’s Freshest Seafood
Located in Colombo, Ministry of Crab is an internationally acclaimed restaurant dedicated to showcasing the country’s rich bounty of local seafood—especially the celebrated lagoon crab, considered among the world’s best.
Founded by Chef Dharshan Munidasa alongside cricket legends Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, the restaurant has earned repeated recognition on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
The menu highlights the freshness and quality of its ingredients. Don’t miss signature dishes like the Garlic Chilli Crab, infused with local spices, or the Pepper Crab, a bold blend of black pepper and house-made soy sauce.
Website: https://www.ministryofcrab.com/colombo/
Instagram: @ministryofcrab
Table by Nyne: Fine Dining with Ocean Views
Also in Colombo, Table by Nyne is a high-end culinary destination that blends art, design, and refined flavors. The elegant space is adorned with contemporary artworks and polished décor, creating a fully immersive sensory experience.
Standout dishes include the cheese soufflé with pomegranate molasses, grilled barramundi with pumpkin gnocchi, and the beloved sticky toffee date pudding. Creative cocktails like the Scarlet Fizz (gin, pineapple, hibiscus) and Colombo Mule (a curry-leaf twist on the classic Moscow Mule) round out the menu.
With its impeccable service and prime location at Lake Lodge, Table by Nyne has secured its place as a must-visit for those seeking gastronomic exclusivity in Sri Lanka.
Website: https://www.tablebynyne.com/
Instagram: @tablebynyne
What to do
Private Safari at Yala National Park
Explore Sri Lanka’s most famous national park in a private safari and encounter leopards, elephants, and sloth bears in their natural habitat.
Starlit Dinner in Sigiriya
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime private dinner under the stars at the base of the iconic Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with deep historical roots.
Surf & Sunset Yoga in Weligama
For a wellness-meets-adventure getaway, Weligama’s beaches offer private surf lessons with pro instructors followed by sunset yoga sessions overlooking the ocean.
