Sri Lanka Travel Archives - GlenMyu Estate Luxury Bed and Breakfast

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 »

Horton Plains National Park (World’s End) Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Natural Swimming Pool, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel / By Mikeez

Horton Plains National Park (World's End), Sri Lanka.

Horton Plains National Park (World’s End) is one of the best experiences if you are staying near Ella, Nuwara Eliya or Haputale, Sri Lanka.

The views, the landscape, the wildlife, the flora and an exhilarating hike are reasons alone to visit this park when on holiday in Sri Lanka.

We visit Horton Plains and World's End often (and our guests love it!)

At GlenMyu Estate, we love this UNESCO World Heritage site so much that we visit several times during the year.

The changing landscape during the year makes it a place where you never get bored of visiting.

We also always feel exhilarated at the end of the hike, whatever level of fitness we have at the time.

A swim in the natural spring-fed swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate is a welcome experience when we return after our hike.

Hiking in Horton Plains National Park in January 2024

Here are some videos and photos that I took in January 2024 when my best friend and my godson accompanied me on the 11 kilometre hike.

I hope that it becomes an annual event with my friends and family.

Starting on the hike at Horton Plains

Reaching Lesser World's End

Greater World's End - a fantastic view

The Beautiful Baker's Falls

The final part of the loop

What did it cost for our hike at Horton Plains?

A hike around the amazing Horton Plains National Park is one of the more expensive experiences you can do from GlenMyu Estate.

We however think that the cost is worth it given the experience that you have and it helps support the preservation of the National Park. It also provides some much needed employment to local people.

Ticket Price/Entry Fee to Horton Plains National Park

The fees for two foreign adults for entry to Horton Plains National Park were as follows in January 2024:

The total cost of LKR 23,257.8o.

This is around
GBP £57
Euros €66
US$73

Other costs for our hike

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What do you need to take for a hike at Horton Plains National Park?

Clothing and footwear

Footwear – I would recommend wearing sandals with fastenings. (Thats what I usually wear). Otherwise you can wear training shoes or walking shoes.
Walking shoes or boots are not necessary, but if you have brought them with you, why not use them?

Jacket – a light wind or rain jacket is all you need to bring along with you to Horton Plains. It is a little chilly at the start of the hike as you will start early in the morning.
There could be a little wind or light shower during your walk. I
tend to find that I need my jacket for the first fifteen to twenty minutes and then it goes into my small backpack for the rest of the hike.

Food, drink and other things for your hike

Food and Drink – At GlenMyu Estate we send you off with a packed breakfast and you can take this on your hike and eat it at one of the sightseeing points. You will just need snacks and some water for the three hour or so hike.

There is a small shop at the entrance to Horton Plains where you can pick up some items if you need to. The selection is limited though.

Please take all you litter with you and keep the park clean

Sunscreen – Don’t get caught out by the cloud cover! As you are at an elevation of between 2,100–2,300 m (6,900–7,500 ft) the UV level can be quite high. We have had guests return a little too red in colour, despite our warning.

Loo Paper and soap – There are a some toilets on the route however they don’t supply toilet paper or soap. Take some with you so you don’t get caught short!

Camera/Mobile Phone – you will have plenty of photo opportunities for those Instagram and Social Media moments.

A small backpack – you will need something to carry the items listed above

Back to the swimming pool to soothe those muscles

One of the things that we most enjoy after the hike is t soak our muscles in the swimming pool at GlenMyu Estate.

We normally arrive back at the estate a around 3 p.m. and the water in the pool has been gently warmed by the sun.

It is really a heavenly end to a fabulous day.

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.

Horton Plains National Park (World’s End) Sri Lanka Read More »

Top 10 places to visit in 2024

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

Ryan Shirley, includes Sri Lanka in his Top 10 places to visit in 2024.

US YouTuber and seasoned traveller, Ryan Shirley, recommends Sri Lanka amongst his Top 10 Places to Visit in 2024.

He says that it is one of the places he most wants to visit this year.

Who is Ryan Shirley?

According to his YouTube Bio, Ryan “Started making magic and science videos, now 8 years later I’m moving towards travel cinematography”.

He has an amazing 735k subscribers and 178 videos as at June 2024.

Sri Lanka is a lush island country

Ryan says that Sri Lanka is a “lush island country” located off the southern tip of India.

The island is small in size but it packs a large punch with the variety of experiences that you can have whilst on holiday.

An incredible coastline

Sri Lanka has an incredible coastline.

The variation of the beaches as you travel around the island is amazing.

Whether surfing, scuba diving, sailing, swimming, seeing turtles or just getting a tan, it offers everything you would want.

Top 10 places to visit in 2024 -Going on Safari in Sri Lanka

There are lots of opportunities to enjoy seeing animals on safari when on holiday in Sri Lanka.

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate, either visit Yala or Undawalawe National Parks to see the wildlife before or after staying with us.

Some guests have been on safari near to the Lion Rock at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks.

There are other safaris that you can take around the country also such as Wilpattu or birdwatching in Kumana National Park, Bundala national Park or Sinharaja Rain Forest amongst others.

Visiting the Lion Rock

One place that is a reasons for Sri Lanka being on Ryan’s top 10 places to visit in 2024 is the Lion Rock.

Sigiriya, the Lion Rock has an incredible story and is an amazing place to visit.

The rock is one of the images that you will see on most of the tourist guides.

Climbing the rock early in the morning and reading about the history of the Kings 5th century palace makes this a unique place to visit.

Train journeys and a beautiful bridge

One of the incredible experiences is a train journey through the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside.

Many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate take the train from Kandy to Haputale.

They do a day trip to Ella and visit Nine Arch Bridge along with other sights including Little Adams Peak, Ravanna Waterfall and much more.

Ryan says that Sri Lanka is an underrated country. That must be a reason to visit the island and make up your own mind. It is why it is on his list of top 10 places to visit in 2024

Watch Ryan Shirley’s travel guide to see what he says about Sri Lanka for yourself.

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.

Top 10 places to visit in 2024 Read More »

Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka

Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Lipton's Seat, Haputale, Sri Lanka, Little Adam's Peak, Natural Swimming Pool, The Pekoe Trail, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Australians holidaying in Sri Lanka

Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka.

Why go? Is it safe? What will I see there?

Here’s why Australians are finding Sri Lanka again.

At GlenMyu Estate we have seen an increase in Australian visitors staying with his in the Sri Lankan hill country.

They love it here! Their experience as they travel around the country is hitting there right nites.

Why are Australian finding Sri Lanka again?

In 2022 escape.com.au stated “For years, this exotic location was a place that travellers avoided. Now this up-and-coming — and affordable — destination is emerging as a new Aussie favourite”.

They highlight the history and culture, the nature and beaches the island has to offer visitors.

Of course, there is so much more got explore.

You can read their article by clicking on the following link.

Australians escaping the winter

luxurytravelmag.com.au say in their May 2024 article “The Asian country Australians are choosing for their 2024 winter holiday”, that “Sri Lanka is attracting droves of sun-seeking Australians this winter”.

Australian Google searches for Sri Lanka skyrocketed by 400 per cent in 2023.

Read the full article at the following link.

Our Australian guests at Lipton's Seat

Matt and Millie stayed at GlenMyu Estate in November 2023.

Despite the weather not being as kind as we would hope they created wonderful memories of their time in Sri Lanka.

Even we were amazed at the photos that they took at Lipton’s Seat during sunrise.

They enjoyed walking through the spectacular tea estate before visiting Dambetenne Tea Factory.

When they arrived back at GlenMyu Estate they were welcomed by one of our sumptuous breakfasts.

It was such a great experience for them that we now recommend it as one of the great things to do from GlenMyu Estate (if you are willing to get up early!).

Our Australian guests also visited Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

Matt and Millie visited Upper Diyaluma Waterfall before they arrived at GlenMyu Estate, so they really made great use of their time in Sri Lanka.

It also meant that they were able to relax at GlenMyu Estate and make full use of the swimming pool and the five acres of land.

They loved the garden tour and the Sri Lankan cooking demonstration.

We know that Australians love good food

At GlenMyu Estate we know that Australians are used to a really great food offering.

We aim to provide all our guests a taste of Sri Lanka with dishes that they recognise.
As the ingredients are so fresh we know that we have the basics right. Ru (and her mother and the team at GlenMyu Estate love the feeeback on the meals that are served to our guests).

Our plant based Sri Lankan sharing platter really is a hit with our guests. We offer a free informal Sri Lankan cooking demonstration for the dishes in the sharing platter.

We are always delighted when our guests send us pictures of their efforts recreating the dish at home.

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?

Clearly we would recommend that you read the advise from your countries government advice page. smartraveller.gov.au is the link from the Department of Foreign Affairs website.

Information is regularly updated on there.

Recently Australian were recommended to exercise a high degree of caution during upcoming elections.

We of course hope that the elections will pass by peacefully.

What will I see in Sri Lanka

There is a very long list!

Beaches, culture, history, diversity, nature, hiking, surfing and so much more.

You will probably do the normal circular trip around the island to Kandy and the cultural triangle. Then visit the tea estates of the central highlands. Watch a train go over a a bridge near Ella (honesty its worth it). Do a safari and then hang out on the beach or in the water.

On each visit to Sri Lanka you can delve deeper and see more of what this wonderful island has to offer.

Is it easy to get to Sri Lanka from Australia?

Sri Lankan airlines have a direct flight from Melbourne to Colombo.

Several of our guests at GlenMyu Estate have used this route and found it convenient to get.

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.

Australians Holidaying in Sri Lanka Read More »

Sr Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024

Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024.

Update – Sri Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024.

Visiting Sri Lanka just got more expensive as the country outsources the online system for getting your visa.

The visa price has increased from US$50 to US$75.

However, there will also be an administrative fee of US$18.50 charged by the company that issues your holiday visa.

What are the visa fee costs?

The only government authorised vehicle to purchase your online visa is operated by IVS-GBS and VFS Global.

There is an eVisa fees waiver scheme for citizens of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.

You can see the visa fees in the following link.

Where do I buy my Sri Lankan Tourist Visa?

The best place to buy your visa is online at the official government website.

The outsourcing and increase in fees appears to have taken many by surprise.

The Sri Lanka Daily Mirror article “Sri Lanka now has highest visa costs in Asia” can be read by clicking the flowing link.

Is Sri Lanka still worth visiting?

Despite the increase in visa fees we still think that Sri Lanka is worth visiting.

There are so many things to do and see on this paradise island.

Our guests at GlenMyu Estate love their experience around the island.

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.

Sr Lanka Tourist Visa May 2024 Read More »

Sri Lankan contestants in UK Masterchef

Cookery Courses, Food and Drink, Our food menus at GlenMyu Estate, Recipes, Ru's Recipes, Sri Lankan Cooking, sri lankan recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian / By Mikeez

Sri Lankan contestants in UK Mastechef

Sri Lanka is being represented by some of the the contestants in UK Masterchef 2024.

I’m sure that British born Brin and Sri Lankan born Mathu, will be followed and supported from Sri Lankans around the world in their quests to become UK Masterchef 2024.

Brin has Tamil Sri Lankan heritage and this has influenced the food that he loves to eat and recreate.

We are looking forward to seeing what Brin serves up to the judges on this favourite UK TV series.

Heat 1 - Brin, the veterinarian

Brin, a veterinary surgeon, grew up in Chelmsford and now is located in Bristol.

Find out more about UK Masterchef 2024 by clicking the link to the BBC website.

You can read more about all the contestants on BBC Masterchef by clicking the following link.

Heat 4 - Mathu - A Sri Lankan born Brit competes in UK MasterChef 2024.

A Sri Lankan born Brit is competing in the fourth heat of MasterChef 2024

Mathu grew up in Sri Lanka and then Toronto, Canada.

She now lives in London and works as a Head of Charity Investments.

Read the Colombo Gazette article by clicking on the following link.

Previous contestants on Masterchef with Sri Lankan heritage

Masterchef does not just take place in the UK. Australia and the US both have their own versions of the show.

There have been several chefs competing in the shows with Sri Lankan connections.

Ray Silva appeared on MasterChef Australia 2017 and made it to the top 24

Minoli De Silva wowed the judges with many Sri Lankan inspired dishes, while making her way towards the top 10 finalists of MasterChef Australia 2021.

Georgia was the winner of Junior Masterchef Australia 2020

Dhayanie ‘Dee’ Williams was first, Sri Lankan female contestant at MasterChef Australia,

Kumar Pereira made it to the top 12 of MasterChef Australia season 3,.

Sri Lankan – American, Jessica Heath is a top 40 contestant on MasterChef USA Season 8,

Samantha Rochelle De Silva participated in the 3rd season of MasterChef USA in 2012. She was ranked in 18th place.

Malin De Silva was a semi-finalist in the 2019 series of BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals

A free cooking demonstration at GlenMyu Estate

If you are interested in Sri Lankan cooking when holiday in the Sri Lankan hill country look no further than GlenMyu Estate.

Ru and the team offer a free cooking demonstration, when you order our Sri Lankan sharing platter.

We normally prepare 5-6 vegetarian dishes from local ingredients.

Lots of our guests have taken notes and tried the recipes at home.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

Join in with the free Sri Lankan cookery demonstration hosted by Ru and her mother.

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 contestants in UK Masterchef Read More »

Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lankan Cooking, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka.

Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka. The British TV presenter, actor journeyed to the paradise isle of the Indian Ocean in a 2023 documentary.

IMDb provide a summary of each of the 3 episodes.

Alexander Armstrong visits the former Dutch Port of Galle, the cultural city of Kandy and also Tamil country.

Watch the trailer for the series here.

You can read a review of the programme from the Daily Mail by clicking the link here.

If you have a Sky subscription you can watch the programmes by clicking the link here.

Stay at GlenMyu Estate and experience Sri Lanka.

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.

Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka Read More »

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka

Birdwatching, Hiking in Sri Lanka, Holiday, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka / By Mikeez

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka.

Things that make us happy at GlenMyu Estate, a special place in the Sri Lankan hill country.

I should be

At this time in the morning, around 9 am, I should be helping with preparations for breakfast. The dogs get fed around this time also. But everything will have to wait a little as I really wanted to capture my feelings this morning.

Not long enough

There are some moments that bring a smile to my face and warmth into my heart.

We were fully at GlenMyu Estate last night and all of the guests are leaving this morning. They all would like to stay longer, but holidays are shorty when you live in the western world. One set of guests have been here for four days which is what we recommend. They still say that they would like to stay longer though.

The other set of guests (a family of four) have only been here two nights. They have gushed about their say here and will be great promoters of GlenMyu Estate to their friends and family.

That feeling

I had delivered a pot of locally sourced organic tea to our guests who had started the day by the swimming pool.

At around 6 am there was lots of mist obscuring the views from the house however, by 8 am the sun had cleared the obstruction providing a beautiful morning.

One of the guests at the pool had been there earlier than his partner. He had brought his book and was enjoying the view and the sounds of the birds in the background providing music at the start of the day.

I thought what a wonderful start to the day and a beautiful moment to enjoy and remember.

As the guests had already been here for four nights they knew that they had a delicious breakfast to look forward to. I had overheard them raving about the breakfasts, and especially the breads, to the other guests when they had arrived.

Both my Ru and I love it when guests enjoy the food that we serve. It is the icing on the cake of our small enterprise in the Sri Lankan hills.

About last night

Yesterday evening provided another beautiful moment at GlenMyu Estate.

The family of four staying consisted of parents and their children who were in their early twenties. From experience, I know that sometimes there is a disconnect between parents and children as they get older.

We have had other families stay and you could see that there was a great family bond and going on holiday with mum and dad was a joy and not a chore.

That special moment

After another fabulous meal of Sri Lankan Prawn Curry, salads and Roast paan followed by dessert of course, the family stayed chatting for a while at the table. Mum retired to bed.

The father and the two adult children went to the balcony and sat chatting and taking in natures night time sounds.

What an incredible moment for the family to enjoy and remember.

My heart was aglow again knowing that we had created a little sanctuary where families can connect and strengthen their bonds.

What beautiful moments will you create on holiday in Sri Lanka.

I’m so happy that I took the time out to record these moments and the feelings that they created for me.

Perhaps you will created your own special moments with family and friends yourselves in the Sri Lankan hill country.

Please press the WhatsApp button to enquire about availability and the best direct booking rates.

Add Your Heading Text Here

Stay at GlenMyu Estate - create your special moments in the Sri Lankan Hills

A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country.

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.

Beautiful moments in Sri Lanka Read More »

A summer holiday in Sri Lanka

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

A summer holiday in Sri Lanka

Summer holiday the Sri Lanka?

Can you visit Sri Lanka for a summer holiday?

Is Sri Lanka a good place to holiday in the Summer?

Where is the best place to go during June, July and August on the island?

Summer in Europe or Summer in Australia?

Summer means a different time of year, depending upon what part of the globe you are starting from.

Being from the UK, Summer is from June to August.

It was pointed out to me that if you are living in New Zealand or Australia, summer is our winter in the UK.

The good news for antipodeans, is that Sri Lanka is great for visiting in their winter too.

Most tourists visit Sri Lanka in the Winter months

Up until recently, Sri Lanka has been seen as a winter holiday destination. It is a place where you can escape from the temperatures in Northern Europe.

The south and west coasts are monsoon free and it is a great time to visit the island.

What is summer like in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka doesn’t have a summer that can be compared to that experienced in Europe.

The island has two main monsoons which determines what part of the island are best visited during different times of the year.

The north-west monsoon, brings rain from the Bay of Bengal. It affects the far north and east between December and February.

The main south-west monsoon, originates from the Indian Ocean. This brings most rain to Colombo, the south, and west coasts and during May and June.

Visit the North and East coasts of Sri Lanka during May to September

This means that you can visit Sri Lanka during the summer holidays.

The north and east coasts are the best part of the country to visit during this time of the year

What's there to see and do?

The north and east coasts of the country are less developed than the rest of the island.

The civil war, which ended some fifteen years ago, has meant that investment in new hotels and infrastructure had only been made in more recent years.

A new place to discover and the most beautiful beaches

If you love a beautiful beach, which has a shallow shelf that is safer for bathing, many beaches on the east coast will be ideal for you.

There have been several good quality hotels built along the Pasikuda coast. You can enjoy the pristine sand and top up your tan.

We have been to Maalu Maalu, by Thema Collection several times and had a wonderful stay.

There are also some historic sights to see in and around Jaffna.

Jaffna Fort
Jaffna Market
Jaffa public library
Nallur Kovil
Naga Pooshani Ambal Kovil
Dambakola Patuna Sangamitta

Delft Island
Elephant Pass
Pennai Causeway
Casuarini Beach

Get there before it loses its' charm

We had friends that stayed with us at GlenMyu Estate last August who had explored Jaffna, Trincomalee and the east coast beaches.

Their advice to us was to visit and experience this part of the country before much more development starts and it loses its’ charm.

'You’ll come back for more’

We find, at GlenMyu Estate, that everyone that comes to this paradise island, wants to return again.

The new strap line from Sri Lanka tourism ‘You’ll come back for more’ reflects this desire.

Once you have visited Sri Lanka for the first time and are comfortable with the country, barriers to returning disappear.

Part of this strategy to increase tourist numbers will be to encourage more visitors during the European summer.

2.3m Tourists in 2024

The Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka) reported in March 2024 that Sri Lanka tourism is aiming for 2.3 million tourists visiting the island during 2023.

What this would say to me is “holiday now before it get too crowded”. So, we would certainly encourage you to visit this island soon!

You can visit the Sri Lankan Hill country all year round (almost!)

Visiting Ella and the main attractions that surround it is one of the must do things on your holiday in Sri Lanka.

The good news is that you can visit Ella during most months of the year.

At GlenMyu Estate (about 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Ella) we tend to be open for most of the year apart from October, when the inter-monsoon hits the island.

Most of our guests do a day trip to see sights such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Rock, Mini Adams Peak and Ravanna Falls.

However, many visitors enjoy the experience of Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, the hike around Horton Plains National Park and the views from Lipton’s Seat.

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, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall and Nine Arches Bridge 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.

A summer holiday in Sri Lanka Read More »

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, January 2024

Holiday, Horton Plains National Park, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, Waterfalls / By Mikeez

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda in January 2024.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda in January 2024.

A spectacular day out from GlenMyu Estate to the second tallest Sri Lankan Waterfall.

Our close friends were over from the UK and we had to show them this wonderful natural site that is only 40 minutes drive from GlenMyu Estate.

A couple of Tuk Tuks

We could have taken our car but instead we decided to hire two Tuk Tuks with drivers for the day. I had previously driven my car to the car park at the entrance to Upper Diyaluma and didn’t want to do this again.

The main reason was that I was quite nervous driving up the road which was really designed for Tuk Tuks.

I would have a less stressful day and the drivers would be able to keep an eye on our belongings when we were in the pools.

Knowing the best route?

We regularly get Indunil to take guests by Tuk Tuk to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall and he knows the best route to take.

We consider that getting to the top of the waterfall and then descending down enjoying the pools is the best route to enjoy Upper Diyaluma.

An early start

Like many other experiences in Sri Lanka we got up early to beat the crowds to Upper Diyaluma in January 2024.

The journey took longer that we anticipated and was just over an hour.

The road had deteriorated with heavy rains in October and November.

There, however, was evidence that the road was being fixed.

We realised that there was an easier way up.

Our guide took us up some roughly made steep steps to the ticket booth.

It was only when we descended that we saw that there had been new smooth concrete steps all the way down to the road.

If I had known this before the start of the walk would have been so much easier on my legs!

Next time!

The hike up was not too challenging however you really need to watch your footing on some of the pathways.

When the concrete pathway ends you will be walking through some rougher tracks so you will need to be careful.

Now there are reasons to get to the top of Diyaluma Waterfall and also reasons to get there early.

The sight of the cool water after your hike is really appealing.

What will I see when I get there?

The top of upper Diyaluma is amazing.

I spent some time in the shallow pools wading around and enjoying the fresh, cool water.

What an experience at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

I was in awe of this place and the nature it presents.

Getting closer to nature is something that you can do in the Sri Lankan hill country. When there are few or no other people around it really is a special experience.

I wonder why this is an Instagram spot?

Well, if you want to know why Upper Diyaluma Waterfall has started to become a popular Instagram spot just have a look at this video.

What a wonderful place and experience.

My only concern is, that with more exposure on social media, it will get very crowded.

There is something about being alone in this beautiful environment. You can really experience the true beauty of the place when you don’t hear the noise of other travellers.

What a special time!

Time for a swim at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

I missed swimming in some of the pools at the top of the waterfall as they were a little dangerous when we were there in January.

Sri Lanka had experienced usual heavy rainfall in October and November which resulted in the waters being a little rough.

I decided that self preservation was more important and I waited until I found a more calm spot

Looking over the edge!

We reached the point where you can see Diyaluma Waterfall from the roadside.

I was careful and only went close to the edge but not near enough to be in danger of falling!

How much did it cost for the day trip in January 2024?

The entrance fee is minimal at LKR 350. We did our trip early and the ticket office was closed. However, given the minimal cost I would have been happy to pay the fee.

I plan to buy some extra tickets on my next trip there so that they have not lost the income.

Additional costs

Tuk Tuk hire from Glenmyu Estate is around LKR 6,000.

Indunil will come with you on the hike and show you the best route.
He will also keep hold of your valuables when you are swimming in the pools.

The road home

On our Tuk Tuk ride on the way back to GlenMyu Estate, we were able to see the landscape and towns that we had travelled through now it was light.

Is it worth it?

Visiting Upper Diyaluma was a special experience that we highly recommend at GlenMyu Estate.

It was such a great experience that I will be doing it again at different times of the year.

As we got up early we were back at GlenMyu Estate act a reasonable hour so we had time for a swim in the pool and could relax in the afternoon.

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 Upper Diyaluma Waterfall which 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, Horton Plains National Park (UNESCO), 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.

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda, January 2024 Read More »

Sri Lankan Visa - where should I buy one?

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa

Holiday, Sri Lanka, Things to do on holiday in Sri Lanka, Travel, visa / By Mikeez

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist visa?

Where is the best place for me to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa?

I don’t want to get scammed or have to pay more through an agency?

Don't use an agency if you can avoid it!

You may pay a large additional fee for purchasing a visa through an agency.

The ETA is a simple and quick way to purchase your Tourist Visa and therefore we would recommend that you avoid using an agency.

Use the Official Sri Lankan Visa site and buy it online.

The best way to buy a Tourist Via for Sri Lanka is to visit the ETA section on the Official Sri Lankan Government Website

30 days or 90 days Visa?

Save money and hassle

Sri Lanka offers the following:

Tourist Visa with Double Entry for 30 days.
Cost: US$ 50

Tourist Visa with Double Entry up to 90 days.
Cost : US$ 50 Twice the relevant country Tourist Visa fee.

Check the Official website for current prices

Please note that these fees were sourced from the Official Sri Lankan Government website in January 2024.

The fees will no doubt be revised in future, so please visit their website for current pricing

SAARC

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries pricing is slightly lower.

Buy when you arrive at BIA?

There is a limited facility at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo to buy a visa on entry.

Additional costs will apply.

It will also delay your entry after a long flight, so we would recommend that you purchase your visa by ETA in advance.

Please note that your airline may not permit you to fly without a visa.

It is important that you check with your airline before you fly.

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.

The best place to buy a Sri Lankan Tourist Visa Read More »

Horton Plains National Park Entry fee ticket from 16-1-2024

Horton Plains Entry Fee in January 2024

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

Horton Plains Entry Fee January 2024.

Horton Plains Entry Fee January 2024.

What is the entry fee to this UNESCO World Heritage site in the Sri Lankan Hill Country?

Our guests left from GlenMyu Estate around 6 a.m. so they could arrive early and hopefully get a clear view at World’s End.

There had been a lot of rain in Sri Lanka during the periods October, November and until Mid December and I was worried that it may be too wet.

However, fortunately the paths had dried out substantially. We had some drier weather from around the 12th January 2024 which must have helped the pathways recover.

The hike was a lot easier than our guests experienced in December 2023 and took our Australian guests around 4 hours.

They were very lucky and had clear views at Lesser World’s End and Greater World’s End.

It was an amazing experience seeing the view of the 870 metre precipice at World’s End.

Our guests really loved Baker’s Falls which had good flow due to the amount of rain in recent months.

They has a wonderful experience and now that I know that the pathways are okay to hike, I will be able to recommend the walk to other guests at GlenMyu Estate.

Horton Plains Entry Fee January 2024.

We really appreciate our Australian guests allowing us to share the entry fee ticket to Horton Plains so that other visitors are aware of the cost at 16th January 2024.

A breakdown of costs for the Horton Plains Entry Fee on 16th January 2024.

Here is the breakdown of the fees for two foreign adults for entry to Horton Plains National Park.
The ticket is dated 16 January 2024 and is priced in Sri Lankan Rupees.
The total cost of LKR 23,257.80 is around GBP £57, Euros €66 and US$73 (currency conversion at 21/12/2023)

16,300 – Foreign Adults (Two people)
150 – JOCOV – I have no idea what this is!
3,260 – Service Charge
3,547.80 – Value Added Tax

23,257.80 Total

Additional costs.

Our guests drove their hire car to Horton Plains so their additional costs would be their daily car hire and petrol.

Many of our guests do not drive their own car and we normally arrange a van or car to get them to Horton Plains National Park.

Previously we arranged a van to take our guests to Horton Plains from GlenMyu Estate and the hire cost in January 2024 was LKR17,000 plus tip.

Fuel prices in Sri Lanka do change on regular basis.
Therefore there may be an increase or decrease in price when you enquire about transport to Horton Plains.

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.

Horton Plains Entry Fee in January 2024 Read More »