Sri Lanka’s North and East reveal a side of the island that is deeply cultural, spiritually rich, and beautifully unspoiled.

The ancient city of Anuradhapura stands among South Asia’s great historic capitals, with sacred stupas and monastic ruins reflecting the grandeur of early Sri Lankan civilisation. Nearby, Wilpattu National Park offers vast wilderness and natural lakes, with opportunities to spot leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.

Further north, Jaffna showcases a distinct Tamil heritage shaped by Hindu traditions and colonial influences. The vibrant Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, historic churches, lively markets, and the old Dutch fort highlight the region’s layered past, while offshore Delft Island is known for wild ponies and coral-stone ruins.

On the northeast coast, Trincomalee blends sacred history with coastal beauty. The cliff-top Koneswaram Temple overlooks the Indian Ocean, and the nearby Kanniya Hot Springs are famed for their therapeutic waters.

The journey continues through Batticaloa and Passikudah, where calm turquoise bays, lagoons, colonial landmarks, and relaxed coastal life create an ideal setting for snorkelling and diving.

In Kandy, the revered Temple of the Tooth stands as one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, complemented by gem museums and tea traditions. Finally, Colombo provides a dynamic urban contrast, mixing colonial heritage, seaside promenades, and modern city energy — a fitting finale to this culturally diverse exploration.