The Bentota Beach Hotel constructed in the style of a Dutch fort, boasts of a timeless atomosphere, making this an ideal destination for beach weddings, romantic honeymoons or even business conferences.

The Cinnamon Grand is the latest hotel to hit Colombo! Located in the heart of the Colombo city centre and just 35 km away from Bandaranaike International Airport the Cinnamon Grand is Sri Lanka's premier venue for the business and leisure traveller.

Conveniently located in the heart of the city, just 35 kilometres from the Colombo Airport. The Trans Asia Colombo is surrounded by the picturesque waters of the Beira Lake. 359 guest rooms and suites offering five-star comforts, two Executive floors complemented by a private lounge and bar

The only hotel linked by a walkway to Colombo’s World Trade Center, the city-center Hilton Colombo hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake. Do business in the Executive Lounge and 24-hour business center or unwind in any of 10 restaurants and bars.

Conveniently located in the busy metropolis Colombo the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, Thus, provides easy access to World Trade Centre, Government offices, Banks, Airline offices and Shopping malls. This 82 roomed hotel is 35 km from the international Airport

Taj Exotica is one of the most luxurious five star beach resorts in South Asia. The 162 deluxe room hotel is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka along the golden mile beach at Bentota. Taj Exotica is uniquely located on a large headland overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Eden Resort & Spa is located on the south west coast of Sri Lanka, 96 km from the International Airport along the golden sandy beaches on the outskirts of Beruwela town.

Sri Lanka's blend of ethnicities has often produced friction and tragedy, but it makes for a fascinating culture. Traditional art and architecture is predominantly Buddhist, and the country is dotted with stupas and sculptures of the Serene One. Traditional dance is all about agility and symbolism. Food is often fiery hot, with hoppers (pancakes) to wrap it all up, and the tea is as marvellous as you would expect.

For a small island, Sri Lanka has many nicknames: Serendib, Ceylon, Teardrop of India, Resplendent Isle, Island of Dharma, Pearl of the Orient. This colourful collection reveals its richness and beauty, and the intensity of the affection it evokes in its visitors. (View the Map)

The beach thing may be a cliche, but don't miss them. Then head to the hills to cool off amidst tea plantations and ancient cities. The island teems with bird life, and even the occasional elephant or leopard. To top it all off, the people are friendly, the food is delicious and costs are low.

When To Go

Climatically the driest and best seasons are from December to March on the west and south coasts and in the Hill Country, and from May to September on the east coast. December to March is also the time when most foreign tourists come, the majority of them escaping the European winter.

Out of season travel has its advantages - it's less crowded, and many airfares and accommodation prices go right down. Nor does it rain all the time. Reefs may protect a beach area and make swimming quite feasible at places like Hikkaduwa, which during the monsoon can be quite pleasant.

July/August is the time of the Kandy Esala Perahera, the 10-day festival honouring the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, and also the time for the Kataragama Festival in the South. In both towns accommodation just before, during and immediately after the festivals is very difficult to come by, and rates usually double or treble. Be sure to book rooms well in advance.

Fast Facts

Full Name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Capital City: Colombo (official); Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (legislative)

Languages : Sinhalese (official)

Currency : Sri Lankan Rupee (Rs)

Area: 66,000 sq km | 25,483 sq miles