Horton Plains National Park Archives - GlenMyu Estate Luxury Bed and Breakfast

Searching for Leopards in Sri Lanka

Searching for Leopards in Sri Lanka

Searching for Leopards in Sri Lanka

Dr Scott from ITV’s This Morning programme was on the search for Leopard in Sri Lanka.

He visited Sri Lanka’s second largest National Park, Yala, which is located on the south of the island.

The Sri Lankan Leopard

(Panthera pardus, Linnaeus, 1758)

The Sri Lankan Leopard is a leopard species that is native to Sri Lanka.

It is the most secretive and elusive of the large carnivores, and also the shrewdest.

The Sri Lankan leopard has a tawny or rusty yellow coat with dark spots and close-set rosettes, which are smaller than in Indian leopards.

Watch ITV This Mornings Dr Scott

You can watch the episode which was broadcast on the 11th November 2024 here.

Maybe one day!

I unfortunately, have not seen a Leopard in Sri Lanka (Yet!).

The photos I have used are stock photos and not me own.

I hope to see a Leopard myself in Horton Plains National Park, like one of our guests from GlenMyu Estate, did last year.

Animals of Asia

Dr Scott previously was searching for Elephants and you can watch the following clip to see what he found.

Supporting the Street Dogs with Janey of WeCare Worldwide

Ben Fogle on his New Lives in the Wild series had met Janey, the British vet who lives on the south coast of the island and cares for street dogs.

The original programme was launched in 2020 and there was a follow up programme in May 2024.

Dr Scott visited Dr Janey on his recent series Animals of Asia for ITV’s This Morning programme.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more.

Searching for Leopards in Sri Lanka Read More »

Maalu Maalu - swimming at the East Coast of Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Holiday in 2025

Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka., Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

Sri Lankan holiday in 2025.

A Sri Lankan holiday in 2025?

Everybody appears to be going to Sri Lanka on holiday!

Why should I go on a Sri Lankan holiday in 2025?
When is the best time to go on holiday?
What are the best places to see on the island?

Why is Sri Lanka so popular?

Since the end of the global pandemic Sri Lankan tourist numbers have been increasing.

The country has been through some difficult times economically and now, after a period of stability, is regularly at the top of recommended places to visit in various polls.

Over the last twelve months holidaying in this paradise island came out high in the following awards and news;

Sri Lanka is projected to emerge as one of world’s fastest-growing travel destinations in 2025 according to the 2024 WTM Global Travel Report

Timeout.com ranked Sri Lanka as no 1 in their “Best places for solo female travel in 2024” .

In April 2024, Sri Lanka ranked 5th in CEO World Magazine’s “World’s Best Countries to Visit”

Sri Lanka was awarded the Best International Tourism project in the Wider World for The Pekoe Trail by the British Guild of Travel Writers Tourism in November 2023.

Other countries are suffering from over tourism

Sri Lanka’s tourist numbers peaked at 2.333 million in 2018.
The number of visitors had grown since the end of the 26 year civil war which ended in 2009.

Since 2018 the tourist numbers dropped again due to the global pandemic and then a financial crisis.

It has since been supported by an IMF bailout and stability has now come back to the country.

The main peak tourist season is from December to March when the country welcomes many visitors wanting avoid some of the northern hemisphere winter.

Tourist numbers doubled in December 2023, January and February 2024 compared to the previous years.

However, Sri Lankan tourist numbers are still very small compared to established markets in South East Asia such as Thailand 28 m, Vietnam 11 m, Philippines 5.5m, Cambodia 5.43 and Bali 15.4 m

Tourist numbers are low (comparatively)...at the moment

However, Sri Lankan tourist numbers are still very small compared to established markets in South East Asia such as Thailand 28 m, Vietnam 11 m, Philippines 5.5m, Cambodia 5.43 and Bali 15.4 m

Why should I go on a Sri Lankan holiday in 2025?

The ambition for tourist numbers by the country is high.

It is expected that 2 million tourists will visit in the calendar year to 2024. This is 300,000 short of their original target.

In 2025 the target tourist numbers are 3 million which is a significant rise.

We would suggest that you visit in 2025 so that you can enjoy the sights before it gets too busy.

You can read about the monthly tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka at the following link.

When is it best to visit Sri Lanka on holiday?

Well it depends!

As mentioned, the main tourist season is from December through to March/Mid April.

If you are wanting a “winter’ holiday you will be coming when there are the most tourists in the country.

The island is affected by two monsoons which will determine what part of the island that you can visit without getting too wet!

You can visit the central parts of the country including the cultural triangle and central hill country for most of the year.

It is good to visit the West and Southern beaches and coasts during December to April.

The Northern and Eastern beaches and coast are best visited during May through to September.

What are the best places to see on the island?

The island has so many amazing places to visit that it is impossible to say what the best places are.

Again, it depends on what you really want our of a holiday.

There are a large variety of beaches around the coast where you can get a tan, swim, surf and enjoy the local nightlife.

Wildlife is abundant in many of the the National Park, such as Yala and Udawalawe. There are safari parks around the county and you will find one in reasonably close proximity wherever you are on the island.

You can get your fill of the culture and heritage from many of the sights in the Cultural Traingle.

If you want to hike and get closer to nature there are many hiking trails around the country. The newest is the Pekoe Trail which covers 300 kilometres over 22 stages staring in Kandy and finishing after Ella.

There is hiking to suit most abilities and energies from Little Adam’s Peak, Horton Plains National Park, Knuckles Mountain Range and the religious pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak.

It's your first trip to the island - what we would recommend.

Sri Lanka really can’t be seen in one trip.

However, we would recommend that you start by staying a night in Negombo to get over your flight.

Then most guests do a circular tour around the island, either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Start from Colombo/Negombo and travel towards Kandy and visit the cultural triangle.

Head south towards Nuwara Eliya and visit a tea factory.

Visit the central hills to see the sights near Ella. (Stay at GlenMyu Estate to hike Horton Plains, see Lipton’s Seat and visit Upper Diyaluma Waterfall).

Travel south to Yala and enjoy a safari.

Finally spend time to recuperate and get a tan at one of the southern beaches.

Visit Sri Lanka - you wont be disappointed!

We find that all of our guests that arrive at GlenMyu Estate have already had a wonderful experience of their time travelling around the island.

Once you have visited you will want to come back again and again.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Sri Lankan Holiday in 2025 Read More »

Escape the winter and soak up the sun in Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Escape the winter

Escape the winter and soak up the sun in Sri Lanka from December to March!

It’s the perfect time to take a walk in south beaches, explore misty highlands, and dive into vibrant culture.

A tropical paradise awaits you, the best way to escape through the cold season in Europe and the US and Canada.

Variety is the spice of life, they say

This renowned saying was originally a quotation from the poem The Task (1785) by the English poet William Cowper (1731–1800).

‘Variety’s the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavour”

Escaping the winter on a holiday in Sri Lanka provides you with man amazing amount of variety and choices of what to do and see.

There is so much to do on this small island that many travellers return again and again,

Escape the winter - Beaches

Sri Lanka has a variety of beaches on its southern and western coasts that will allow you to top up the tan during Northern Hemisphere winter.

You can sunbathe, visit a turtle hatchery, learn to surf and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

These beaches offer something for everyone.

Surfing

Surfing is a popular thing to do whilst you are in Sri Lanka.

If you are new to surfing there are plenty of surf camps where you can learn something new.

The Central Highlands

At GlenMyu Estate, we find that many of our guests find the cooler temperatures of the hill country a relief.

Ella is one of the must see places to visit in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Seeing Nine Arch Bridge, hiking Little Adams Peak and taking a dip in Ravanna Waterfall are all great experiences.

We find that guests choose GlenMyu Estate as they don’t want to be in a busy tourist town.

Not just Ella

Ella is a great place to visit, but there is so much more to experience in the Central Hills.

Horton Plains National Park, Lipton’s Seat, Diyaluma Waterfall and Bambarakanda Waterfall are just a few places that are amazing.

Visit the things to do section on our website to find out what you can see when you are at GlenMyu Estate

An island with so much to offer

Although Sri Lanka is a small island, similar in size to Ireland, there are so many things on offer.

You could take many weeks just to touch the surface on the places to see and experience.

No wonder the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s latest campaign is “You Will Come Back for More”.

Ancients cities and a fascinating history

Culture and religion play an important part of life in Sri Lanka. This majority Buddhist country also has Hindu, Christian and Muslims places of worship in most towns and cities.

The Portuguese, Dutch and British colonisers left their mark on the island. Other influences in culture, food and religion have resulted as it was part an important part of a sea trading route.

Visiting Colombo. Kandy and Galle Fort will provide you with a taste of the colonial architecture by the Portuguese, Dutch and British.

Escape the winter - Wildlife and safaris

Not just elephants and leopards!

There are lots of safari parks around the island where you can see a variety of wildlife.

It’s not just all about elephants and leopards. Sloth Bears, Barking Deer, Monkeys, Crocodiles and Monitor Lizards are just some of what you might see.

If you are particularly interested in bird watching, there are national parks that provide good habitats for birds.

Ayurvedic Treatments and relaxation

Holidays should not all be about exploring.

We know that you need to unwind as well.

You will find lots of opportunities to get a massage or some of the Ayurvedic treatments from your hotel or spas near where you are staying.

We are currently developing a spa for our guests at GlenMyu Estate.

Escape the Southern Hemisphere Winter

Don’t worry, if you are living in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa you can visit this paradise island during your winter.

The beaches in the North and East are fabulous during May until September during the Southern Hemisphere winter.

Explore Jaffna, Trincomalee, Pasikudah and end up with some surfing at Arugam Bay.

Visit during the Europen and North America summer holidays - avoid the crowds

The main tourist season for Sri Lanka is from Mid December to March/Mid April.

If you want a less crowded holiday and want to avoid the masses in the Mediterranean, perhaps Sri Lanka is for you.

The North and East are the places to visit during May until September.

Ella and the Central Hills - almost always open

Make sure you add variety to your holiday by spending some time in the Central Hill Country.

You can visit Ella and the great sights in the Central Hills for most of the year. Expect rains in May and October and November. Despite being a bit wetter during those months you can get lucky and have some great sunny days.

Escape the winter and stay at GlenMyu Estate in the Central Hills of Sri Lanka

Treat yourself to a stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Escape the winter and soak up the sun in Sri Lanka Read More »

Is Sri Lanka a good place to visit in 2025?

Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka., Ella, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

Is Sri Lanka a good place to visit in 2025?

A holiday in Sri Lanka in 2025 will be an experience that will live with you for many months and years after your time on this paradise island.

Is Sri Lanka a good place to visit in 2025? WTF project that it will emerge as one of world’s fastest-growing travel destinations in 2025.

Visit Now!....Tourist numbers in Sri Lanka are on the rise

Visit in 2025, before tourist numbers get too large!

The government have ambitious targets to grow the number of visitors to this small island.

Visitor numbers doubled in the months of December 2023, January 2024 and February 2024 .

Calendar year figures for 2023 was for 1.487 million visitors. There were 1.484 million visitors from January to September 2024.

The plan for 2024 was 2,3 million, a rise of 700,000. It was a stretching target and the number has now been revised to 2 million. This is still an additional 400,000 tourists!

In 2025 the targeted numbers are 3 million!

The Sri Lankan Tourist Development Board publish weekly, monthly and annual tourist arrivals.

You can see how the numbers have increased by visiting their website.

What is the World Travel Market

World Travel Market is an organisation that brings the travel industry together through events, content and digital tools.

is home to the world’s travel trade – the most influential travel and tourism event globally.

WTM London brings together the international leisure travel community; providing inspiration, education, sourcing, and benchmarking to travel professionals while providing exhibitors a place to do business and showcase their services to the international press.

In 2023, WTM welcomed over 40,000 professionals from 184 countries. WTM is the easiest, most resourceful place in travel to get networked, saving time, money, and effort on the way.

You can register and download the full report at the World Travel Market website.

The report was made in conjunction with Tourism Economics. This company state that ‘Tourism Economics combines the expertise of the travel industry with proven economic tools to answer the most important questions facing our clients’.

Why is Sri Lanka a good place to visit in 2025?

This small island nation located off the tip of India, has incredible diversity in its landscapes. A varying coastline with beautiful beaches to high mountains and rich fertile valleys, there is something to see for everyone.

Stunning wildlife, safaris, hiking, water sports, cultural and history are all elements of what Sri Lanka offers.

The highlight is the people. They proudly welcome visitors with Sri Lankan smiles and want you to have the best experience during your visit. Hospitality is natural to those that live here. Don’t be surprised if you are asked into a strangers home for a cup of local tea!

Visit Sri Lanka in 2025 before others find it!

We would recommend that you visit in 2025 before tourist numbers rise too much.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

Is Sri Lanka a good place to visit in 2025? Read More »

5 Must see places in Sri Lanka

Ella, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

5 Must see places in Sri Lanka

Where are the must see places in Sri Lanka?

There are so many places and experiences to choose from, the list could be very long.

However, most travellers have too short a time on this paradise island to see enough.

This is why many visitors to Sri Lanka come back again and again.
The Sri Lanka Tourist boards slogan is ‘You will come back for more’.

Our 5 best must see places?

We have listed five places that we think that you must see on your first trip to Sri Lanka.

Some are prominent in guide books and we considered that we had to put on the list.

We could have put five places that you must visit whilst staying at GlenMyu Estate as there are so many amazing places within an hours drive away.

However, we understand that your time on holiday is short and we have highlighted five places you must see around the island.

1. Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara

This bridge near Ella Town has probably taken over the Lion Rock, Sigiriya as the number one place to visit on the island.

But its’s just a bridge!, I hear you say.

Nine Arch Bridge is in a stunning setting and is part of what has been coined the most beautiful train journey in the world.

The bridge is just over one hundred years old (Opened 1921).
Apparently it is just made from stone, rocks and cement as the steel that was to be used in its’ construction was redirected to be used in the First World War effort.

I guess is Scotland can have the Harry Potter Bridge at Glenfinnan Viaduct, Sri Lanka can have a stunning bridge too!

2 Lion Rock, Sigiriya

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, is known as Lion Rock.

Prior to being built as a fortress, it’s thought the rock was a Buddhist monastery.

The citadel on top of Sigiriya Lion Rock was built by King Kasyapa who ruled from 477 to 495 AD. As he was worried of potential attacks from his brother Moggallana, the rightful heir to the throne, he used the fortress as his royal residence.

The Lion Rock was once again used as a monastery after Kasyapa’s death until it was abandoned in the 14th century.

You will ascend 200 metres climbing 1,200 steps and will be met with a magnificent view.

We would recommend that you go early to avoid the heat of the sun.

Remember, you can always see the Lion Rock from Pidurangula Rock which is likely to have less tourists.

3. Horton Plains National Park, World's End

Our guests that stay with us at GlenMyu Estate love hiking at UNESCO World Heritage site, Horton Plains National Park.

The exhilarating views that you will see from Greater World’s End and Little World’s End are worth the 11 kilometre circular trek itself.

At an elevation of around 2,100 metres you will feel that you have had a good workout at the end of your walk.

Information boards highlight the landscape, flora and fauna that you are likely to see on your hike.

You will enjoy sitting watching the cool water cascading down the beautiful Baker’s Falls waterfall.

Make sure you go early to get a chance of a clearer view at both Worlds End viewpoints.

4. The Southern Beaches

There is so much variety for you to experience at the southern beaches of Sri Lanka.

Apart from catching the rays to show off when you get home, there are lots of different things to do.

Visit one of the turtle hatcheries.

Learn to surf at a surf camp

Enjoy the nightlife at one of the

Watch the sunset with your partner

Don’t forget, if you are visiting the island during May to August, you should stick to the beaches of the East and North coasts.

Beaches to visit on the Southern Coast

Here are some of the better known beaches on the south coast of Sri Lanka with links to show you what they are like.

Ahungalla Beach
Unawatuna Beach
Hiriketiya Beach
Bentota Beach
Mirissa Beach
Jungle Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach
Goyambokka Beach (Sriyanga Sanjeewa)
Mihiripenna Beach
Polhena Beach

5.Yala National Park

Yala National Park is probably the best known park on the island to do a safari and see animals. It is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka.

The park covers a total area of 1268 sq km of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons.

You are likely to see a wide range of wildlife such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted dear, peacocks and many more types of birds.

However, there are plenty of other safari parks around the country. So, if you want to avoid the crowds look for other parks as you travel around the island.

5 Must see places in Sri Lanka - Summary

Watch the train pass over Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara
Discover the history behind the Lion Rock, Sigiriya
See the view from Little World’s End
Enjoy the variety at the Southern beaches
See the animals on safari at Yala National Park

Too much more to mention!

These five must see places are only just some of the amazing sights and experiences you can have on this small island.

Sri Lanka has something for everyone and we are sure that you will be back for more.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to visit Ella, Nine Arch Bridge, Horton Plains and many more

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

5 Must see places in Sri Lanka Read More »

Animals in Asia

Animals that live at our visit GlenMyu Estate., Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Animals in Asia

In November 2024, The UK’s This Morning programme started a series on the Animals of Asia.

In the first feature, Dr Scott looks for Elephants in Sri Lanka.

Watch the clip from This Morning to see his amazing experience of his search for animals in Asia.

Supporting Biodiversity at GlenMyu Estate, Sri Lanka

Since we moved to Sri Lanka some eight years ago one of our aims was to encourage wildlife to visit GlenMyu Estate.

We are continuing our work creating a habit and food forest to bring a wider biodiversity to the 5 acres of land.

By staying at GlenMyu Estate on part of your holiday, you will be helping to support our work.

Where can I see Elephants in Sri Lanka?

It’s possible to see elephants as you drive around the country.

Some of the roads on the island have been built close to elephant corridors. You will see warning signs on roads to drive carefully as you may come across elephants on or beside the road!

Animals in Asia - Safari Parks

There are lots of safari parks located around the island.

Here are a few picks from a much longer list of parks you can visit on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

Great for elephants:

Udawalawe National Park

Minneriya National Park

Kaudulla National Park

A wider variety of wildlife

Yala National Park

Wilpattu National Park

Wasgamuwa National Park

Bundala National Park

Flood Plains National Park

Maduru Oya Park Sri Lanka

Great for birds and birdwatchers

Thangamale Bird Sanctuary

Kumana National Park

Gal Oya National Park

Horton Plains National Park

Elephant Orphanages and Sanctuaries

There are lots of elephant orphanages located in Sri Lanka.

In this article by ‘Elephant Sanctuary Sri Lanka’ they cover the following orphanages and sanctuaries:

Udawalawa Elephants Transit Home

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Millennium Elephant Foundation (Private Project)

Elephant Freedom Project (Private Project)

Some of our guests at GlenMyu Estate have volunteered at Elephant Orphanages prior to staying with us in the Sri Lankan Hill country.

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

The most well known elephant orphanage is Pinnawela which is located 10 km north-west of Kegalle town and very close to Rambukkana town

Elephant Orphanages - the good and the bad

There are mixed reviews and feelings about visiting and supporting elephant orphanages.

Some people love the experience and think that the orphanages are a good idea. Others believe that the way the animals are treated and the conditions are far from good.

Here are video from ‘Poohs World’ and Trisha & Nikhil showing their experiences at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage .

This Blog Post from Hand Luggage Only highlights the negative side of orphanages.

Animals in Asia - Not just Elephants!

Although seeing elephants in Sri Lanka is a great experience, there is lots of other wildlife to see throughout the island.

In most parts of the island there are National Parks and Safari Parks that all offer different experiences.

As you travel around the island you will see a wide variety of colourful birdlife.

Taking an organised tour or safari in one of the well know parks will ensure that you see more wildlife than you would on your own.

Lots of the safari guides are amazing a spotting animals in the jungle that I would missed.

Encouraging wildlife at GlenMyu Estate

GlenMyu Estate is a luxury bed and breakfast located in 5 acres of the beautiful Sri Lankan Hill country.

The once abandoned estate has and continues to be restored into a haven for wildlife. We have consciously planted species at the estate that will attract, feed and provide a home to a variety of wildlife.

Our ultimate aim is to create a food forest that will provide a food source for us, our guests and the wildlife that visit and live at the estate.

It is early days creating this haven and by spending part of your holiday at GlenMyu Estate, you help to support our ultimate goal.

Some animals and birds seen at GlenMyu Estate

I clearly need to replace my camera to get some beer photos!

However, these photos will provide you with an idea of what you mights see if you stay at GlenMyu Estate.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate, enjoy nature and explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see animals in this part of Asia.

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Animals in Asia Read More »

We met dancing, and moved to Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Life in Sri Lanka, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

We met dancing..... and then moved to Sri Lanka

My wife and I met dancing in London , may years ago.

Little did I know that I would end up moving to Sri Lanka many years later.

I’m so glad that we did.

Sri Lanka is a magical island and we have created an amazing place to stay, off the beaten track, in the Sri Lankan hill country.

Find our more about our story and also about our luxury bed and breakfast, GlenMyu Estate.

The photo is of us dancing at our wedding in Negombo. I had a full head of hair when we met!

Ceroc - the perfect type of dancing for me!

A friend of mine in the UK introduced me to Ceroc.

I had no idea about what this dance style was about. He had taken me to a Salsa club in London, but I was overwhelmed with the dance steps and it didn’t appeal to me.

Ceroc was a completely different for me.

I loved it as I could pick up the simpler dance moves.

After some weeks of practice and some ‘beginners weekends’ I managed to grasp what was needed. I loved it so much that I would dance at various venues around London at least three times per week.

What is Ceroc

Ceroc explains on their website that “Our dance moves incorporate a wide variety of dance forms such as Jive, Ballroom, Latin, Tango, Salsa, West-Coast Swing, Blues, Bachata, Zouk…..the list goes on”.

The format in the same every night. There is a beginners class and an intermediate class. In between the classes you get to practice the moves that you have learnt.

You have no rhythm!

At one of my ‘beginners weekends’ I was told by one of my partners that I had no rhythm. She told me to listen to the music.

As much as this was hard to hear, she was right. I could mechanically master the dance moves but I hadn’t connected them to the beat of the music at that stage.

It was a time where I could have easily given up hearing this crushing view of my dancing ability.

However, I was determined to go forward as I enjoyed dancing this style so much.

Over the coming weeks I listened to more music and it clicked.

At the Ceroc sessions that followed, I would be asked to dance by the ladies rather than the other way around.

She happened to be Sri Lankan

I met my future wife through Ceroc dancing.

One of the venues was at International Student House near Great Portland Street station in London.

Ruwanthi was working in London at the time and a work colleague brought her along for a night out. She regularly attended the venue when she was in London and we danced from time to time.

The rhythm was good between us and we really enjoyed dancing with each other.

Ruwanthi was from Sri Lanka. Little did I know that several year later I would be living with her on this beautiful paradise island. I also did not envisage that we would both give up our successful careers and build and operate GlenMyu Estate.

Are we still dancing?

It certainly was a lot easier to dance when you have the lure of a great fun dance venue to go to.

We don’t dance as often as we would like to as there are lots of things for us to do with our time at GlenMyu Estate.

I’m inspired when there is some music on and when you see our lounges we certainly have the setting to dance.

Perhaps this will be a joint New Year’s resolution for us in 2025. Dancing more often as the sunsets at GlenMyu Estate!

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

We met dancing, and moved to Sri Lanka Read More »

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka now?

Many people ask is it safe to visit Sri Lanka? I am writing this article in September 2024, just before the Presidential election.

We believe that Sri Lanka is safe to visit, and actually has been over the years despite the negative press in the media.

So many tourists in 2024 and more projected in 2025

Sri Lanka’s tourist numbers have been increasing. Targeting 3 million tourists in 2025 is a large rise from the 2.3 million planned for 2024.

The Sri Lanka Tourist development Board publish monthly and weekly tourist arrivals.

So, you can see for yourself that lots of travellers are visiting Sri Lanka. They don’t appear to have concerns about safety, and providing that they are sensible, they shouldn’t have any concerns.

The best place for female solo travel - maybe!

Sri Lanka was recognised as “The best places for solo female travel in 2024” by Timeout.com”.

Clearly, the Island was delighted with this survey.

However as always there are always stories that could be highlighted that would make you a little bit more cautious.

Our general rule is that 95% of people are good and have genuine intentions.
However, in every country there are the 5% that have no morals and you have to be careful of.

I have seen too many TikTok, Instagram and Facebook videos showing the negative side of travelling on the Island.
One negative video is too many, so I want to assure you that most Sri Lankans want you to have the best experience on their paradise island.

We have many good stories where Sri Lankans have gone the extra mile or genuinely provided hospitality that have awed the tourists visiting the island.

It is safe to visit, just be cautious in Tourist Hot Spots

Where there are lots of tourists, petty criminals see opportunities to make a fast buck. Just be on your guard in the larger towns and cities and at the poster boy tourists sites.

We have a great Tuk Tuk driver that we recommend to our guests, but you will come across some who will try to make quick money.

Getting a Meter Taxi, using Uber or Pick Me are some methods you can use to stop being ripped off.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka - in the scheme of things.....

We hate guests paying over the odds for all things in Sri Lanka.

Therefore we have gathered a number of contacts where we are confident that they will offer a fair price for a trip of excursion.

However, in reality, paying a little bit extra is not going to make a big difference to you as a traveller, apart from the feeling that you have been a little bit duped.

I recommend that you look on this philosophically and, in the scheme of things, it is not worth getting upset about.

Just don’t let these trivial things spoil your holiday, it’s not worth it.

I’m not a Buddhist, however I’m sure there is a way of looking at these scenarios and going forgiveness or perhaps looking at it as a charitable donation.

I assure you that, over the years living on the island, I have decided to let things go rather than let them give rise to unwarranted levels of anger.

Over the last eight years, I have not felt unsafe.

Having lived on the island for the last eight years, I’ve experienced events that you would have thought that I would have made me feel unsafe.

The horrific Easter bombings on the 21st April 2019.

Living in the island during the global pandemic when there were a limited number of vaccines available.

The Aragalaya protests during 2022 against the Government which saw the President flee the country and people having a swim in the presidential pool.

Despite all these scary events, I never felt unsafe.

Perhaps, residing out of the main conurbations and in the Sri Lankan Hill country meant that we were away from the main action.

The tourists that did visit during these times were looked after and provided Sri Lanka’s renowned hospitality.

Presidential Elections and then what?

Sri Lankas’ Presidential Elections are taking place on the 21st September 2024.

I think that once the elections are over and the people have accepted the result, Sri Lanka will be as safe as ever to visit as ever.

The peak tourist season is between December and April,. We expect that monthly arrival records will be achieved and tourist will love their time exploring the island.

We expect to be there or thereabouts on tourist number targets

As previously mentioned, we expect tourist numbers in Sri Lanka to increase substantially.

From just under 1.6 million to December 2023 the plan is 2.3 million to December 2024. As at mid- September 2024 the country had welcomed almost 1.3 million visitors.

In December, the main peak season starts. In December 2023 the country was visited by 210,000 tourists, so if the country does not achieve its’ target, it will come close.

Keep up to date with your countries Foreign Office Advice

As situations can change quickly we would recommend that you check your countries Governments’ advice on Foreign Travel to Sri Lanka.

We have inserted the link for the UK Government Travel Advice.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka? - Don't worry, be happy

Of curse, we can’t provide a guarantee that Sri Lanka is safe, as individuals will always have different experiences and views of their visit.

However, in our experience, Sri Lanka is generally a safe place to visit.

So, book those flights and experience this amazing island!

We would be happy to see you at GlenMyu Estate if you are visiting the Sri Lankan hill country.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now? Read More »

Haputale to Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Haputale to Horton Plains National Park

How do I get from Haputale to Horton Plains National Park?

Does it take long to get there?

What will I see when I get to Horton Plains?

How do I get from Haputale to Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka?

Our guests regularly visit Horton Plains National Park when they stay at GlenMyu Estate.

Find out more about how long it takes and how to get there.

How do I get from Haputale to Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka?

The road from Haputale to Horton Plains National Park takes you through tea estates and some small towns.

You can find the route on Google Maps.

When leaving Haputale you take the B48 road past Haputale Police Station towards Boralanda. This road will take you through a tea estate, over a small railway crossing and through vegetable gardens.

From Boralanda you take the first exit (B508) towards Rahangala and Ohia.

At Ohia you will cross the railway tracks and make your way through Pine Forest and you will reach Horton Plains National Park.

Once you have paid the entrance fee you will make your way to the car park and you can commence your hike.

How long does it take to get to Horton Plains from Haputale?

The journey takes around one hour and fifteen minutes and is around thirty kilometres.

From GlenMyu Estate it will take one and a half hours and is around forty kilometres.

We normally send our guests off early in the morning with a packed breakfast which they can eat on their walk.

What will I see when I get there?

Hiking the eleven kilometre circular hike around Horton Plains National Park is an amazing experience.

Apart from the unique landscape, special flora and fauna there are three main sights to visit.

World’s End is a cliff drop of around 970 metres.

Lesser World’s End is also spectacular with a drop of around 270 metres.

Baker’s Falls is a beautiful waterfall within the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Staying at GlenMyu Estate and visiting Horton Plains National Park

A limited time special offer

We have special offer for guests staying at GlenMyu Estate until the 30th of April 2025. Please see the attached offer.

It takes around one hour and thirty minutes to get to Horton Plains from GlenMyu Estate.

We recommend going early in order to get the best chance of a view at World’s End before the clouds come in. A sumptous breakfast is provided so you have the energy for your hike.

The hike will take you around three hours and we always feel great having completed the walk in this special environment.

Returning to our Natural Spring Fed Infinity Swimming Pool

One of the great benefits of staying at GlenMyu Estate is that you can ease those muscles by having a swim in our swimming pool.

The pool is fed from a Natural Spring and the water is cool encouraging you to swim.

It’s a great way to spend the afternoon surrounded by nature..

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Haputale to Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka Read More »

What is Horton Plains famous for?

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

What is Horton Plains famous for?

We tell you the highlights, what not to miss and why we at GlenMyu Estate, and our guests love hiking the 11 kilometre circular trail.

A unique environment in Sri Lanka

Horton Plains is a national park located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.
It was designated a National Park in 1988 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The 3,169 hectares consists of ecosystems such as Montane evergreen forests, grasslands, marshy lands and aquatic ecosystem.

The plains are also of outstanding scenic beauty and conservation importance, containing most of the habitats and endemic plants and animals.

The Flora and the Fauna

As Horton Plains is at an elevation ranging between 2,100–2,300 m (6,900–7,500 ft), the environment hosts some interesting flora and fauna.

Pick up a book in the gift shop before you enter the trail and see how many birds, animals, trees and shrubs that you can spot

Horton Plains is famous for Amazing precipices

Horton Plains hosts two amazing sheer drops where you can sit and enjoy the wonderful landscape.

Both Lesser World’s End and Greater World’s End are top Instagram spots.

Lesser World's End

We normally walk in a circular clockwise direction to reach Lesser World’s End first.

The drop at Lesser World’s End is around 300 metres (1,000 ft)

Greater World's End

Continuing the hike, the next cliff you reach is the famous Greater World’s End.

This spectacular cliff drops around 1,200 metres (4,000 ft).

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate regularly visit Horton Plains. Find out more by clicking this link

A beautiful waterfall named after the founder of Nuwara Eliya

Baker’s Falls were named after British explorer and big game hunter Sir Samuel Baker.

After admiring the landscape, listening to the birdsong and spotting various animals you eventually reach the stunning Baker’s Falls.

There are steps that take you to a seating area where you can sit, regain some energy and enjoy the cascade.

What does it cost to visit Horton Plains National Park?

Horton Plains is one of the more expensive places to visit in Sri Lanka.

However, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creates local employment and protects an important landscape.

Here is a copy of an entry ticket in January 2024.

The total cost for two foreign adults was LKR 23,612.

This is around US$80
Euros €72
GBP £60
(Exchange rate August 2024)

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

What is Horton Plains famous for? Read More »

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists

Accommodation, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Little Adam's Peak, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists

The Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority are aiming for an influx of 3 million tourists in 2025.

It’s a steep rise from the 1.6 million that arrived in 2023. The target in 2024 is 2.3 million.

A huge rise in tourist numbers

Usefully, the Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority (SLDTA) publishes monthly tourist arrivals so you can see the increasing trend of visitors to the island.

Overtourism?

We have read so many articles about overtourism in parts of Europe and the Americas.

At this stage, Sri Lanka is welcoming tourists and will continue to do so for a long tome in the future.

Finding less crowded places

We have found at GlenMyu Estate that there is a desire to seek our less crowded places. Off the Beaten Track or Path are the aims of lots of tourists who want do something different.

GlenMyu Estate is a different experience on the island.

How to avoid the crowds

We think that the best chance of avoiding the crowds is to get up early to see the sights.

I know that this is the opposite of what you want from a holiday. However, you will have plenty of time to relax in the afternoon. Perhaps you can catch up on the missed sleep by taking a siesta!

3 guests bedrooms on 5 acres of land

At GlenMyu Estate, we deliberately did not want to develop too many properties on the five acre estate.

Sure, we don’t make as much money as a “proper” commercial business, however we want our guests to enjoy the space.

Restoring the land so that it attracts a wider range of biodiversity improving its’ health is also important to us. We believe in providing space to share the property with animals and wildlife.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.

We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.

The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,

GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.

Sri Lanka aims for 3 million tourists Read More »

Why Sri Lanka is the best place to visit in South Asia

Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka., Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda / By Mikeez

Why Sri Lanka is the best place to visit in South Asia.

Freelance journalist Kate McMahon writes that she has fallen in love with Sri Lanka in her Business Insider article of July 2024.

The article is headed “I’ve visited 60 countries. Skip the crowds in Bali — visit this lesser-known gem in South Asia instead”.

“I’ve been traveling for years but never encountered a place like Sri Lanka before”.

If this is not a reason to visit this paradise island, I don’t know what is.

Less tourists than Bali

Bali is a popular tourist destination and a well trodden path by Australian travellers. We have found that more of our guests at GlenMyu Estate are wowed by their tour of the island. They like the lower number of tourists and that it has not been affected by too much development.

Kate McMahon points out that “Sri Lanka has much of what Bali has to offer and more, but with a fraction of the tourists”.

What's so special about Sri Lanka

“It has a lot of amazing wildlife, beautiful beaches, and a rich culture and history”.

Sri Lanka offers so much for a small island and we find that travellers return again and again.

More tourists are finding Sri Lanka - come now before it gets too busy!

The Sri Lankan government and tourist authority plan to increase the tourist numbers from 1.48 million in 2023 to 2.3m in 2024.

Sri Lanka will get busier, so we would recommend coming sooner than later.

If you like less crowds

We are conscious that travellers do not like places that are overdeveloped.

This is why we only have three guest bedrooms on the five acre (20,000 sq. m) estate.