Field guide
Sri Lanka: Galle Fort, leopards and the hill country
The Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, and Block 1 of Yala holds one of the densest leopard populations recorded, at roughly one leopard for every two square kilometres.
Galle and the south coast
Galle Fort is best walked at the edges of the day, along the ramparts, with time for its small galleries and cafés. The south coast beyond offers quiet beaches and villas where nothing is asked of the day.
Leopards at Yala
Sightings are never guaranteed, even where leopards are dense. Early morning drives with a tracker who knows the individual animals give the best chance, and patience is part of the experience.
The hill country by train
The railway through the tea country is one of the great slow journeys. With a stay in a planter's bungalow, it stops being transport and becomes the point of the trip.
How long to stay
Ten days is a comfortable length for Sri Lanka: a few nights in the south around Galle, two or three at Yala and several in the hill country. The island is compact, but its roads are slow, so a calm pace suits it.
Who it suits
The island suits guests who like wildlife, history and tea country in one journey. It is gentle and warm, and an easy first step into South Asia for those who prefer comfort and a personal guide.
Beginning the conversation
Tell us whether leopards, the coast or the railway matters most. We will plan around the seasons of each, since the best weather differs between the south and the hills.