Lipton's Seat

Discover Kandy’s rich history which includes incredible art and architecture, Buddhism, British colonial rule, and its vibrant multicultural present.

Believed to have been the refuge for King Walagama in the 1st century BC, Dhowa Rock Temple is a lesser-known hill country attraction which boasts a stupendous, albeit incomplete, statue of Buddha.

The Dutch Reformed Church was finished in 1755, built on the site of a destroyed Portuguese convent. It has interesting architectural features, such as a gabled roof on the eastern and western walls.

It was the Dutch who expanded Jaffna Fort in 1680 and, more than three centuries later, they are financially supporting its renovation.

Delve into the most revered temple in the island as your host takes you through the Kandy city and the Temple of the Tooth, then head to the local market for a final feast for your senses.

Sri Lanka resonates to the sound of drumming, and with the help of Red Dot, a teacher from a long line of professional drummers can reveal the basics of how to play as well as understand the history and importance of drums in Sri Lanka.

Aluvihara Cave Temple, which can be visited easily from Kandy and the Cultural Triangle, is where the oral teachings of Lord Buddha were first put into writing in the 3rd century AD.

Discover the majestic remains of Sri Lanka’s first capital, originally built in the 4th century BC, the ruling place for over 100 Sri Lankan kings. You can explore these extensive ruins by bike.

Located just three kilometres from Colombo’s city limits, Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka’s capital, and it has a long and hallowed history.

The ancient rock carvings at Buduruwagala date back to the 8th century. Seven gigantic Buddhist figures are sculpted into a 70ft cliff, including a colossal image of Lord Buddha spanning over 50ft.

Now the commercial centre of Sri Lanka, Colombo’s Fort was first built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, before being further changed by the Dutch and British colonisers.

Explore Colombo’s fascinating religious and cultural diversity on this dynamic guided walking tour, which takes you to iconic religious buildings and through the lively streets of Pettah.

Walk through the city of Colombo, the commercial hub of Sri Lanka, with an expert guide and find out about the history hidden within these streets.

The most famous cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple boasts the largest number of Buddha statues to be housed in one place, as well as stunning ceiling paintings.

Serene and beautiful, the Degaldoruwa temple in Amunugama has stood as a place of spirituality while one century gave way to the next since the late 1770s, when it was first built.

Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built by the Portuguese before it was further developed by the Dutch and British, covers nearly 4sqkm and houses a range of old colonial buildings.

This relatively-modern Buddhist temple boasts a gigantic white dagoba, believed to contain sacred relics, as well as fascinating murals that depict the life story of Lord Buddha.

Explore the enchanting streets of 17th century Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a guide who has a deep knowledge of the Fort’s complex colonial past and the architecture which remains.

Your host will take you on an architectural journey through the fort’s colonial history, from the spot where the first Portuguese boats landed to the moment the English departed.

Stemming from various ancient dance rituals, Kandyan dancing became widespread across the island and is now a core part of Sri Lankan culture. It is a highly-theatrical, thrilling show to see.

An ancient pilgrimage site visited by Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims and Christians. It is believed that King Dutugemunu built a shrine here for the worship of the Kataragama God in the 2nd century BC.

Thought to have been visited by Lord Buddha in 523 BC, the ancient Kelani Raja Maha Viharaya is renowned for its glorious paintings, which show the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

The newly-restored Koneswaram Kovil, the original of which was built in 205 BC, is poised on a sheer cliff which stands 350ft above sea level and offers stunning views over Trinco’s natural harbour.

Sri Lanka’s capital has several Hindu Kovils, decorated with colourful statues and which house shrines dedicated to different gods and deities.

The Maligawila statue, the largest freestanding image of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka, dates back to the 7th century BC. It stands at 14 metres tall and is carved out of a single block of limestone.

Mihintale was recorded as being the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in 3rd century BC. The peak is home to magnificent pieces of ancient Sri Lankan architecture and a majestic 40ft dagoba.

Situated 30 minutes inland from Tangalle, the ancient Mulgirigala temple complex is perched on an enormous boulder more than 200m high which provides magnificent coastal views.

One of Sri Lanka’s most prominent Hindu temples, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil was originally built over 1,000 years ago. It boasts many beautiful pieces of colourful and dramatic architectue.

Sri Lanka’s medieval capital from 1073 until the late 1200s, the ruins of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa are incredibly well-preserved and include magnificant granite sculptures of Lord Buddha.

Ritigala is nestled deep inside a jungle-covered nature reserve, the ruins of an extensive Buddhist monasty which was abandoned during the invasions of the 10th and 11th centuries.

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most majestic, awe-inspiring and stunning historical locations in the world, built in the 5th century AD by ‘mad’ King Kasyapa.

This hosted walking tour takes you from historic Galle Face Hotel to Beira Lake, wiggling through the vibrant streets of Slave Island which relfect Sri Lanka’s multiculturalism.

Go on a guided tour of a scenic, modern tea plantation located just outside of Galle and explore one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic industries. A great option if you are not visiting the hill country.

Tradition relates that a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka in 4th century A.D. and has been enshrined in the Dalanda Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, since the late 1500s.

Join an expert in exploring one of the most revered temples in the island, housing a relic of the Lord Buddha. Witness rituals performed daily and learn about the history behind this place of worship that is a haven to many a Buddhist.

Hop into a bullock cart and explore the village life of the island. Walk through lush paddy fields, take a boat ride along Hiriwaduna Wewa and finally, savour a traditional Sri Lankan meal to wrap up your sojourn in the village.

The Veddas, the aboriginal people of Sri Lanka, live in small communities in utter isolation from the outside world. Discover their ancient traditions as you walk with them through the forest.

Yapahuwa, a shortlived Sri Lankan medieval capital, is an enormous yet little-visited rock fortress built in the 13th century around a vast granite rock which rises 100m above the surrounding plains.

Little-visited Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a small Buddhist temple just inland from Galle.

Walk through a cinnamon plantation in the South and be enlightened on the process of cinnamon peeling, quilling and oil extraction. Don’t forget to enjoy the views while you try your hand at some cinnamon peeling.

Sensationally flavoursome rice and curry is a staple in Sri Lanka. A plate of rice and curry is comprised of various curries, cooked vegetables, sambols and steamed rice.

Adam’s Peak is sacred to all four religious groups in Sri Lanka. Attempt the enthralling and challenging climb at night to reach the top in time to witness one of the most stunning sunrises in Asia.

See Colombo as the locals do – from the back seat of a tuk tuk, the three-wheelers which rove the island’s capital. Visit the city’s main attractions, lesser-known spots and enjoy the cool breeze.

It was cricket that brought Red Dot to Sri Lanka and no one is better equipped to arrange cricket tours of this beautiful island.

Spend a morning walking through the picturesque rural countryside in the foothills surrounding Kandy. Great for birdwatching.

Explore the rural villages around Galle, first by boat as you sail down the Kapu Ela, then by a scenic 9km bike ride through the surrounding paddy fields. Finish with hoppers and tea in a mud hut.

Cycle through Galle’s beautiful countryside, passing paddy fields dotted with iconic white egrets and water buffalo, quiet villages, tea and rice fields. Choose from a range of routes.

The Knuckles Mountain Range is perfect for hiking – a land of mystical peaks, chattering waterfalls and hidden hillside villages, with breathtaking visas and a remoteness that will appeal to experienced and novice hikers alike.

Praised as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world, the train ride winds out of Kandy and up through the Hill Country, providing panoramic views of the spectacular tea-covered hills.

Discover the 6 best water-sport activities in Sri Lanka, from athletic surfing, kite-surfing and windsurfing to laidback snorkelling and sailing trips.

The best place to go kitesurfing in Sri Lanka is along the north-west coast, in Negombo and Kalpitiya, both of which are laidback beach towns that are also home to a vast lagoon.

Trek through the Knuckles Mountain Range, named thus because of its resemblance to a clenched fist, five mountain peaks spanning 155sqkm which host a wide range of rare endemic flora and fauna.

Although this climb is relatively easy, the views from the top of Little Adam’s Peak are sensational. Begin the climb with a gentle stroll through a sloping tea field, passing endless neat rows of terraced tea plants. 

Go on a guided night cycling tour around Colombo, using quiet roads and appropriate safety equipment, and see how this lively city changes after dark. 

Whilst building Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the 5th century AD, King Kasyapa moved the monks who lived around Sigiriya to Pidurangala Rock, and an ancient cave temple still remains here.

Go snorkelling at Pigeon Island, one of Sri Lanka’s two marine national parks, and see intricate corals, small colourful fish and black-tip reef sharks, as well as endangered marine turtles.

Set out from the shores of Trinco or Pasikudah in a catamaran and explore the splendour of Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline. Go to beautiful private coves and snorkel off colourful reefs.

Sri Lanka’s eastern coastal belt is a wonderful place for scuba diving. The reefs, colourful corals and an array of exotic marine life, have attracted many sea farers for centuries.

Moist, murky and mysterious, an experience of Sinharaja is like nothing else in Sri Lanka. Trek through this magnificent landscape, the last surviving stretch of virgin rainforest on the island.

Canoe down the Mahaweli River from Kitulgala to Polonnaruwa with a guide, and spend three nights camping under the stars. This is a magical expedition which takes you through some of Sri Lanka’s most remote areas.

Rise at dawn and soar above the wide plains and clusters of jungle which cover the Cultural Triangle, an area of Sri Lanka which is littered with dramatic ancient ruins dating back over 2,000 years.

Sri Lanka is a fantastic choice for a surfing holiday, and has been a popular surf destination since the 1970s.

Learn to surf the waves at Weligama Bay on Sri Lanka's blissful south coast with the extra assurance of your own instructor to guide you every step of the way. For beginners and those seeking to improve their style.

Ella is one of the most beautiful spots in the hills for walking, offering trails of varying levels of difficulty – make the short climb up Little Adam’s Peak or hike to the summit of Ella Rock.

Enjoy an exciting rafting adventure in a jungle paradise. The Kelani River is famous for its white-water rafting and boasts rapids suitable for beginners and those with more experience.

Windsurfing in Sri Lanka was first started in Negombo, which continues to be a popular spot for windsurfing during the season from December to April, as is Kalpitiya, another north-west coastal town.

Trek through this forest area which lies just 35km from Galle. Accompanied by an experienced wildlife tracker, absorb the tranquil atmosphere whilst looking out for tropical birds and other animals.

The Kelani Valley Forest Reserve in Kitulgala offers breath-taking scenery. Sail down the river, or journey through the jungle-clad hills and tea and rubber plantations on foot or by mountain bike.

Of the seven species of marine turtles, five come ashore to nest in Sri Lanka and the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which primary operates as a hatchery, is a great place to observe collected and rescued eggs hatch.

Learn about the key role elephants play in Sri Lankan culture and issues which arise from this. Accompanied by an expert, walk with, bathe and feed the elephants that are looked after here.

Minneriya National Park is a small but popular wildlife park home to a wide range of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. It is also the site of the world-renowned wildlife event ‘The Elephant Gathering’.

Five of the seven species of marine turtle come ashore at Rekawa to lay their eggs. Join the night watch to observe these fascinating creatures up close.

Quite apart from the incredible ruins of this medieval city, Polonnaruwa is home to a large monkey population who were famously featured in Disney’s engaging documentary film ‘Monkey Kingdom’.

Visit the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe National Park, a rehabilitation centre for orphaned elephant calves.

Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places to see elephants in Sri Lanka – up to 500 elephants, along with other wildlife, are found here.

Wasgamuwa National Park is comprised of dry evergreen forests, grasslands and wetlands, and is known for the elephants which frequent the Mahaweli River which runs along a boundary of the park.

This modern catamaran complete with professional crew sets out from Mirissa Harbour at 6:30am, beating the other boats in order to have the best dolphin and whale sightings.

Wilpattu National Park is arguably Sri Lanka’s most beautiful park. Its varying natural habitats – coastal belt, natural lakes, scrublands, open grasslands and dense forest – house numerous animals.

Yala National Park, situated in the south-east corner of the island, is home to the greatest variety of Sri Lanka’s wildlife including the island’s big game – elephants, leopards and sloth bears.

Trek through the tranquil Kaludiya Pokuna Forest near Kandalama in search of a ruined ancient Buddhist temple abandoned over 1,200 years ago. Absorb the peaceful atmosphere.

A hands-on workshop which introduces you to the use of masks in Sri Lankan culture and demonstrates the stages of traditional mask carving from start to finish as you attempt to make one yourself.

The Jaffna islands are fascinating to explore. Spend a day out at Delft Island with its small village homes, wild horses that roam the plains, and ruins of a Portuguese Fort.

The National Museum of Colombo is the largest in the country. Opened in 1877 by Sir William Gregory, it houses many precious relics including the throne and crown of the last Kandyan monarchs.

Located in Jaffna, the Keerimalai hot springs is a renowned mineral water spring that is shrouded in folklore, believed to have healing properties. Separate entrances for women and men.

Take a 30-minute boat ride to Nainativu, one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar. The name of the island alludes to the folklore inhabitants, the Naga people, considered one of the first tribes in Sri Lanka.

Slow down and travel silently by tiny boat up a Sri Lanka river to get a real sense of the beauty of this tropical land.

The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens is the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka and the finest in Asia. Explore the beautiful surroundings with an expert, or simple enjoy a relaxed stroll in the sun.

More than a hundred waterfalls are scattered across Sri Lanka’s verdant central hills, and whilst some are fairly small or inaccessible, many are worth hiking to. We've highlighted our top five.

Tissamaharama is a sacred town scattered with lakes and Buddhist temples that was the capital of the ancient Ruhunu Kingdom in the 2nd century BC. 

Point Pedro, also known as Sakkotai Cape, is the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka. An unpretentious spot replete with significance, it was once a trading port.

A `Perehara’ is a cultural procession, an ancient historic ritual where tradition, religion, and the arts all come together. The annual Kandy Perahera is an astonishing spectacle.

Explore a vast estate in the foothills of Kandy with a highly-engaging and knowledgeable host, before enjoying a mouth-watering traditional rice and curry lunch afterwards in your host’s ancestral home.

One of the most spectacular statues in Sri Lanka, the Aukana Buddha has stood 12m high since it was made in the 5th century. It is free-standing, carved from a single rock.

Red Dot's Tea Estate experience takes place in one of the most beautiful organic tea estates in the Sri Lanka hill country, hidden above Ravana-Ella Falls and with breathtaking views of Ella Rock and Lipton's Seat.

The Kande Vihara in Aluthgama and the Galgoda Sailatalaramaya Maha Vihara Temple and Sunandaramaya Mahavihara in Ambalangoda attract devotees from all parts of the island.

Experience tea, glorious treks and total tranquillity during this four-night stay at Amba Estate, an organic farm on the outskirts of Ella in Sri Lanka’s hills. One of our Extended Activities.

A three-night action-packed adventure of white-water rafting, canyoning and hiking in remote Kitulgala on the western fringes of Sri Lanka’s hills. This activity is run by Borderlands, a reputable company committed to providing high-quality guiding and safety equipment.

A two-night hiking adventure through the remote Knuckles Mountain Range with stays in a rural village and in the middle of the jungle.

Traverse some of Sri Lanka’s most historic and scenic tea estates on this two-day trek around Deltota in the picturesque Kandyan foothills.