Ceylon Escapade Partners

Hike to Maningala Rock | Riverston

The hike to Maningala Rock takes you deep into the Knuckles Mountain Range, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and untouched regions. The name “Knuckles” comes from the shape of the mountains when seen from certain viewpoints and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why.

After reaching Riverston, the trail leads you through forests, open views, and quiet surroundings before climbing towards Maningala. The name “Maningala” means the mountain of time. In the past, people in the area used the shadow of this elephant-shaped rock to tell the time of day.

The hike is rewarding, with views of the Thelgamu Oya river, paddy fields, traditional villages, and wide panoramas of the Knuckles range from the top. The flat summit, shaped like an elephant’s back, makes the climb even more special. Along the way, you’ll often spot butterflies, wildflowers, and birds adding colour to the trail.

After a full day of hiking and exploring, enjoy a relaxed dinner and overnight stay surrounded by nature. A simple, peaceful escape for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Explore Maningala Rock with Ceylon Escapade 🌿

💖 Wondering how to make this Valentine’s Day truly special in Sri Lanka?

Surprise your partner with experiences that go beyond the ordinary; float above the breathtaking landscapes of Dambulla–Kandalama in a magical hot air balloon, or sail effortlessly along Sri Lanka’s stunning coastline on a romantic cruise through destinations like Mirissa, Beruwela, Trincomalee, or Pasikudah.

Whether it’s a dreamy escape in the skies or an unforgettable moment at sea, every experience is designed to celebrate love in the most meaningful way.

💕 We wish you the very best Valentine’s Day, and we’re here to help you make it truly unforgettable.

Mark your calendars! From 13th to 15th February 2026, Colombo will come alive with one of the most exciting cultural celebrations of the year; the HSBC Ceylon Literary & Arts Festival.

This three-day festival brings together world-class authors, artists, thinkers and performers for inspiring talks, creative workshops, live music, theatre and more, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Sri Lanka’s capital. With over 50 speakers across 30+ sessions, plus arts and performance highlights for all ages, this event is a must-attend for culture lovers and curious travellers alike.

📅 13–15 February 2026
📍 Venue: Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo, Sri Lanka

We’re excited to share this cultural highlight; bringing travel, creativity and Sri Lanka’s vibrant spirit together!

Happy 78ᵗʰ Independence Day to all Sri Lankans!

On the 4th of February 1948, Sri Lanka marked a defining moment in its history, reclaiming its freedom and beginning a new chapter as an independent nation. Today, as we celebrate 78 years of independence, we honour the journey of resilience, courage, and unity that has shaped the island over generations.

From ancient kingdoms and timeless cultural traditions to breathtaking landscapes, diverse communities, and stories passed down through centuries, Sri Lanka’s identity is deeply rooted in its past while continuing to evolve with hope and pride. It is a land where history lives on through heritage sites, festivals, languages, and the warmth of its people; a nation that continues to inspire those who call it home and those who visit its shores.

From all of us at Ceylon Escapade, we are proud to celebrate Sri Lanka; its freedom, its spirit, and its endless beauty.

Udawalawe is one of Sri Lanka’s most magnificent wildlife sanctuaries, home to herds of Asian elephants, over 180 species of birds, and landscapes that shift from golden grassland to lush forest. November marks the best time to visit, when water levels drop and wildlife gathers near the reservoir. Ceylon Escapade curates bespoke safaris here, blending comfort, conservation, and discovery.

Sri Lanka has officially been named among the World’s 10 Happiest Travel Destinations for 2026 🌍✨

Recognised by G Adventures for its unforgettable south coast sailing experiences, this milestone reaffirms what travellers around the world are seeking today - meaningful journeys, deeper connections and experiences that truly matter.

From golden coastlines to soulful adventures, Sri Lanka isn’t just a destination - it’s a feeling.

And we’re here to craft journeys that let you experience it the right way.
📍 Thoughtfully curated itineraries
⛵ Experience-driven travel
🌿 Purposeful, authentic moments

Let’s design your happiest journey yet.

Thai Pongal is a celebration of gratitude, prosperity, and new beginnings 🌾✨

As the harvest sun rises, we honour nature, tradition and the joy of sharing moments that truly matter - values that inspire the journeys we create.

Wishing you and your loved ones abundance, happiness and meaningful experiences this Thai Pongal.

A labyrinth of mangroves, lagoons, and waterways, the Muthurajawela Wetlands form one of Sri Lanka’s most vital ecosystems.

Spanning nearly 6,000 hectares, this estuarine sanctuary supports over 190 species of flora and 200 species of fauna.

With Ceylon Escapade, discover it on a guided eco-cruise that unveils the silent world of cormorants, monitor lizards, and marsh crocodiles beneath the canopy.

May this New Year bring you warmth, joy and unforgettable moments with the people you love.

Here’s to a new year filled with breathtaking destinations, new cultures, and journeys that inspire your soul. 🌍✨

Where will your next adventure take you?

#2026

Wishing you a festive season filled with joy, warmth, and moments worth travelling for.

Thank you for choosing us to be part of your journeys - near or far.

Stay merry and keep exploring! 🌍❤️

A proud moment for Sri Lanka

Lonely Planet has named Jaffna among the 25 Best Cities to Visit in 2026, celebrating our northern capital for its rich Tamil heritage, vibrant culture, and authentic island spirit.

This global recognition places Sri Lanka among the world’s most inspiring destinations, inviting travellers to discover the stories, flavours, and communities that make our island extraordinary.

Sri Lanka is small in size but vast in biodiversity. Within a single day, travelers can move from mist-covered forests to coral-rich coasts, crossing habitats that shelter elephants, leopards, whales, and hundreds of endemic species.

This diversity is more than a backdrop, it’s a living network of ecosystems that define the island’s identity. Guided by Ceylon Escapades, travelers explore these landscapes through conservation-led journeys that reveal how nature and culture intertwine.

As highlighted in Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne’s A Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of Sri Lanka, over a thousand species thrive here, many found nowhere else on Earth. Each journey through Sri Lanka’s wild heart invites not only exploration, but respect for the life that makes this island extraordinary.