For years, Sri Lanka has been a dream destination, as I longed to see elephants in the wild. Though the coutry does not always steal the spotlight on social media, the raves I see or read about it added to my curiosity. Finally, with enough miles saved for a Singapore Airlines flight, that dream became a reality in July 2025. This is the first in a series of blogs about our whirlwind adventure in this beautiful, underrated country.
I found our incredible tour guide, Thilanka, through Airbnb Experiences. Months before the trip, we exchanged messages to plan the perfect itinerary. Unfortunately, a last-minute flight change by Singapore Airlines shaved two days off our stay. Thankfully, Thilanka’s flexibility ensured our shortened trip was still packed with unforgettable experiences.
We left Singapore at 10:20 PM for a 3-hour-45-minute journey to Colombo. Landing at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) at 11:35 PM, we opted to stay near the airport due to the late hour. Our host, Angalo, arranged a seamless airport transfer, and within 15 minutes, we were settling into the cozy Ace Boutique Airport Hotel. The simple warm hospitality set the tone for our adventure.
The next morning, Thilanka arrived right on time to pick us up. Before we set off, he introduced us to the endemic trees and plants in the hotel’s garden. As a bird lover, I was thrilled to hear the chorus of waking birds which was music to my ears. Thilanka’s passion for nature was infectious, and I knew we were in for a treat.
We kicked off the day with a light breakfast at a nearby café. I had vegetable and curry-filled pastries paired with tea.
Our first destination was Dambulla City, northwest of Colombo. Driving through the Gampaha District, we paused at a lush paddy field. Thilanka, an avid birdwatcher, handed us binoculars, and we spotted some birds flying about.
Along the way, we passed a truck carrying an elephant, likely headed to Kandy’s annual Esala Perahera, a grand festival featuring decorated elephants. I understand the cultural significance but personally I would not go to events where animals are used. My heart ached for the elephant, its trunk reaching for roadside branches as if seeking a taste of freedom.
As we continued, the highway offered distant views of mountains. We learned that these surrounded Kandy, a historic hill city known for its sacred Temple of the Tooth, cultural festivals, and tea plantations.
Our first major stop was the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century BC. This ancient complex, carved into a massive rock, houses five caves adorned with Buddha statues and murals depicting Buddhist history. The entrance fee was 2000 LKR per person (approximately $6.50 USD), and we climbed about 364 steps to reach the temple. Thilanka gifted us blue water lilies as an offering to the Buddha, a touching gesture.
The first cave featured a reclining Buddha statue. Each cave revealed unique statues and colorful frescoes, preserved for centuries.
An ingenious ancient drip line system along the rock’s edge keeps the interiors dry during rains.
From atop the hill, we admired in views of the surrounding thick vegetation before descending.
By midday, hunger called, and Thilanka drove us to Kussiya Cookery Class and Restaurant. A lovely lady and her daughter welcomed us with an 8-course pollo-vegetarian feast, sourced fresh from their garden. We dined in a hut amidst the greenery, feasting on dishes like jackfruit and beet curries. The tranquil, homey setting and bold flavors made this meal a highlight, perfectly capping the first half of our day.
Our first day in Sri Lanka was a whirlwind of nature, culture and culinary delights. Stay tuned for the next chapter of our adventure, where we dive deeper into this beautiful country’s treasures.
Making Each Day Count 
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