Sri Lanka’s teardrop-shaped island is easy to fall in love with. On the Splendours of Sri Lanka tour, discover why this tranquil paradise has captured the hearts of travellers since ancient Roman times.

Climb Sigiriya, a fifth-century fortress carved onto a giant monolith. Vibrant frescoes line the ascent, and at the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping views from the water gardens and remains of King Kashyapa’s palace — an extraordinary feat of ancient craftsmanship.

Beside Kandy’s charming lake, this temple houses what is said to be a sacred tooth of the Buddha. Enjoy a special Kandyan dance performance accompanied by rhythmic drumming that brings the experience to life.

Home to one of the world’s highest leopard densities, Yala National Park offers the chance to spot these graceful creatures up close, as well as elephants, buffalo and the elusive Sri Lankan sloth bear.

Polonnaruwa, once Sri Lanka’s second capital, is home to one of the country’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Stone Buddha statues, palace walls and sacred pools sit almost frozen in time, echoing the power and faith that shaped this former royal city.

Experience Sri Lankan cooking in a Kandy family home. Coconut simmers and Ceylon cinnamon perfumes the air as you learn the secrets behind creating a meal that feels both homely and unmistakably Sri Lankan.

A visit to this elephant refuge adds a rewarding layer to your holiday, offering the chance to watch adorable baby Sri Lankan elephants trot in for feeding ahead of their return to the wild.

Words by Danielle Cowan