Ancient traders in search of spices and gems happened upon the teardrop-shaped isle of Sri Lanka and called it Serendib, from which we get the English word serendipity. This famed isle of tempting splendor has always charmed travelers, with its ancient lost cities hidden in the jungle, odorous spice gardens, deep spirituality, and opulently tropical sceneries. Try to explore the magnificent heritage of Sri Lanka's early Buddhist civilization, walk in rainforest reserves, ride elephants, meet with tea planters, see saffron-robed monks, taste the curries, enjoy the teas—among the best in the world—and search for wild elephants and leopards in gorgeous Yala National Park. Colorful Hindu and Buddhist temple celebrations are a magnificent part of Sri Lanka's heritage.

Colombo / Anuradhapura
We visit Colombo's bazaar and diverse mix of Hindu and Buddhist temples, and then set off to the countryside to travel around the enormous ruined city of Anuradhapura, capital of the Sinhalese people from the 4th century BC and one of Sri Lanka's seven World Heritage Sites.

Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa
Following stone steps to the summit of the 5th century rock fortress of King Kashyapa, you may discover Sigiriya's pavilions, delightful gardens, and enjoy uninterrupted views of thriving green jungle everywhere. And then wander about the ruins of medieval Polonnaruwa and ride elephants through woodlands and villages.

Kandy
In the colorful hill city of Kandy, you may meet local handicraftsmen and visit the renowned golden-roofed Temple of the Tooth, said to hold a tooth of Buddha.

Elephant Orphanage / Sinharaja Rainforest / Nuwara Eliya
You may also head for the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage and observe the morning bottle-feeding of the babies, and hike in the rare major lowland forests of Sinharaja. Then set off to the foggy highlands, and explore tea-growing country, staying in the classic British hilltown of Nuwara Eliya with swathes of manicured tea estates around.

Yala National Park / Colombo
The south coast's Yala National Park is haven to throngs of painted storks, troops of monkeys chattering in the trees, and elephants gathered at lagoons. You may look for the park's most famous—and elusive—resident, the leopard.