Connect to the stories of Sri Lanka with enriching travel experiences from Minor Hotels

31 March, 2025

Combining Sri Lanka and the Maldives in a single trip offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and luxurious relaxation, making it an ideal multi-destination holiday.

For Minor Hotels, which debuted its homegrown Avani brand in Sri Lanka and Maldives, the Teardrop of India has always held a special place. With the recent additions of NH Collection Colombo and NH Bentota Ceysands Resort, the global hospitality group is set to mark over a decade in the country with an immersive multi-property itinerary that highlights Sri Lanka’s most scenic natural spots, important heritage sites and unmissable culinary gems.

Colombo: The Pulse of the Island

After landing in Sri Lanka’s capital, the recently opened NH Collection Colombo provides a central base to recharge before diving into the city's electric energy. Guests can put their bargaining skills to the test at Pettah Market, a treasure trove of heady oud perfumes, vintage glassware and antique curios, or explore local, sustainable brands at the Good Market Colombo.

For a romantic twist, set sail on a sunset catamaran ride or cruise down to Mirissa, a postcard-worthy bay where blue whales occasionally outnumber surfers. For a taste of Colombo’s legendary street food scene, visit the Hulftsdorp district known for bone marrow soup with mutton, prawn-topped lentil fritters and savoury rice packets known as lamprais.

Kalutara: Nature’s Playground

Just a short drive from Colombo, the lesser-known Kalutara offers a serene escape immersed in nature. From Avani Kalutara, travel back in time to the Fa Hien Caves, one of Asia’s oldest prehistoric settlements, discover cascading waterfalls in Dodanduwa or visit Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Buddhist temple by the river. Under the waves, coral gardens and shipwrecks offer time capsules and vibrant reef ecosystems for the adventurous. Back on dry land, beach shacks serve up net-fresh lobsters, while sweet king coconut is abundant at roadside stalls. Sister property Anantara Kalutara, designed by the visionary architect Geoffrey Bawa, offers understated luxury and seamlessly blends with its coastal surroundings. Guests can visit Ambalangoda, the birthplace of Sri Lanka’s traditional mask-making, and take a road trip to Hikkaduwa, known for its lively nightlife, world-class surfing and cultural landmarks like the hilltop Kumarakanda Vihara temple, offering panoramic views.

Bentota: The Art of Blending Architecture With Natural Surroundings

Continue down the coast towards Bentota, where the ocean merges with a mangrove-lined river, its many tiny islands sheltering water monitors, fishing cats, herons and other wildlife. The region is perfect for immersing visitors in the artistry of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's most renowned architect. From the newly refurbished and rebranded NH Bentota Ceysands, Bawa’s lush Lunuganga Estate and the enchanting Brief Garden by his younger brother, Bevis Bawa, are within easy reach. Guests can extend their architectural exploration to Richmond Castle, a colonial-era mansion steeped in tales of romance and heartache. At Bentota Beach, thrill-seekers can revel in water sports, while nature lovers can marvel at young turtles being released into the wild at the Sea Turtle Hatchery. For aviation enthusiasts, the Sri Lanka Aviation Museum showcases vintage aircraft just a short drive away.

Tangalle: A Slow-Paced Haven for Heritage Lovers

Travelling south from NH Bentota Ceysands to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle, a stop at Galle Fort is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem is home to charming boutiques, spice shops and stylish cafés tucked within its centuries-old walls. Just beyond the fort, guests can visit Sooriya Weaving Mills to watch artisans weave vibrant candy-striped sarongs, sarees and scarves that are perfect as one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Heading south to Tangalle, the pace slows as the crowds fade. At Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle, guests can disconnect and immerse themselves in an eco-paradise where turtles nest along the shoreline, protected by the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, as well as enjoy peaceful birdwatching at the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary. Adventure seekers can go on safari at Yala or Udawalawe National Park, kayak through tranquil lagoons or hike to the Mulgirigala Rock Temple for soaring views. For surfers, Hiriketiya Bay and Medilla Beach offer the perfect waves. At Anantara Peace Haven, evenings are best spent with sundowners, fresh seafood feasts and views of the island’s pristine southern coastline.

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