Sri Lanka, an enigmatic land of magical vistas and diverse cultures, invites you on a journey. This pearl-shaped island seamlessly blends over two millennia of heritage with traces of 450 years of colonial influence and diverse ethnic traditions. Brimming with treasures, thrilling adventures, and sensorial delights, its greatest wealth is its people. Proud communities, shaped by history’s mosaic of travellers and colonisers, warmly share their rich heritage. A journey here transports you into another culture, where omnipresent friendliness ensures you’ll never remain a stranger in Sri Lanka; you’ll feel at home.
The Greeks called it Taprobane. Ancient Sri Lankan chronicles speak of a kingdom called Tambapanni, ruled by the earliest recorded king of the island nation, King Vijaya. It was the 2nd century AD Greek mathematician, astronomer, cartographer and astrologer Ptolemy who is credited with creating the earliest map of Sri Lanka. He named it Thaprobana, and made it the centre of the earth! For a while, Ptolemy’s map became the polestar for sailors setting out from the west, eastwards to discover new lands or new routes. From the Arabs to the Portuguese, from the Dutch and Spanish to the British, they all came, across the centuries to Ceilao, or Sri Lanka. They discovered a fascinating land.
It is no wonder then that Marco Polo declared the atoll “the finest island of its size in the world; it was `Taprobane’ to the ancient Romans, `Serendib’ to Arab traders, `Ceilao’ as christened by the Portuguese, `Ceylan’ by the Dutch followed by `Ceylon’ by the British and finally Sri Lanka to the Sinhalese.
The teardrop shaped southernmost point of mainland Asia became an indispensable port of call for the earliest travelers awaiting favorable trade winds for onward journeys. This Great Emporium became a principal center of exchange and commerce between the Mediterranean trade of the Roman Empire and the wealth of imperial China. The Portuguese came with the sword and cross, the Dutch with ledger and law book and the British with roads and railways.
When Buddhism declined in the country of its birth, India, it took root in Ceylon; and here, so its adherents claim, it is still to be found in its purest form.
As if the colourful tapestry of culture, dramatic landscapes and awe-inspiring history weren’t enough, with its own version of the Big 5 and over 20 national parks, Sri Lanka is also an exciting year-round choice for an unforgettable wildlife experience for any traveller.
We consider curating bespoke holiday plans with a fascinating amalgamation of culture, scenery, nature, pristine beaches and gobsmacking wildlife a speciality of our own, just as well as we take pride in showcasing Sri Lanka’s abundant biodiversity through ethical and responsible wildlife tours across the island. With plenty of experiences that centre around wildlife and primitive nature can easily be experienced in many biomes around the little island, no wonder Sri Lanka was the subject of interest for many jungle-type movies in the past; Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Second Jungle Book: Mowgli & Baloo, and who can forget Elizabeth Taylor facing the stampede of tuskers in the unnerving finale of the 1954’s film Elephant Walk? However, the best film made on the island is still The Bridge on the River Kwai. If we piqued your interest in a vicarious trip to old Ceylon, dear reader, revisit David Lean’s masterpiece next time it comes around.
At Authenticities, we work with a network of seasoned local suppliers with a similar flair of passion, knowledge and commitment to sustainable wildlife tourism so that our guests can enjoy their encounters with a clear conscience. We work with recognized wildlife enthusiasts and naturalists around the island to curate a unique wildlife experience based on your interests be it photography, videography, birding, mammals or marine life. Whether you’re in the mountains or the wetlands, the amazing flora and fauna and the plentiful wildlife of the pearl of the Indian Ocean will take your breath away. Just remember to pack your camera and binoculars for all the bird watching!
Tribes and exotic communes, earthy rituals and beliefs, rusticity and the esoteric; the islanders arise from a land of sunshine and rain. Elements of faith, 2,500 years of history and traditions trickled through generations have entwined themselves in the lives of every king, cultivator, monk, ordinary man, woman and child. Within the heart of an islander, compassion runs deep, but so do all other qualities of what make Sri Lankans the epitome of exotic and enigmatic beauty.
With diversity evident in the cultural landscape, Sri Lanka offers much variety for those willing to scratch beneath the surface. From the Kaffirs community in the north-west to the vibrant Hindu communities of the north and the Wanniyala-Aetto, or “forest people” in the Uva province, Sri Lanka is a highly sought-out destination to experience a rich mélange of cultures tied to unique customs and beliefs continuing from histories, centuries-old, grown into a way of life of its people.
Sri Lanka is a postcard-perfect destination year-round. The island undoubtedly a traveller’s paradise, offers everything from lush-green ancient forests, stately ancient ruins, thriving wildlife reserves and wide panoramas of crystal blue seas. Perhaps one of the most rewarding and thought-provoking experiences for travellers is to stray away from the everyday attractions and explore the depths of lifestyles where a flow of perspectives takes place at an unhurried pace. At Authenticities, we strive to look beyond the known realms and unearth the hidden lifestyles of the islanders in exchange for imparting a deeper appreciation for the native cultures that a visitor doesn’t often encounter. It is also in our interest to breathe life into already worn-out attractions, so that you, the visitor, are able to broaden perspectives of otherwise worn-out impressions.
The path less taken, the spaces lesser known, we love inspiring travellers to explore the unexplored. Perhaps, one of the many alluring aspects of this island is that one can embrace the wonders of nature without fleeing far from the centres of civilizations. As we make a conscious effort to feature resorts located in pristine environments, our trips are curated to make a positive impact, keeping in mind the climate awareness and social impact scale.
The island is a haven for art, aesthetics and a gamut of architectural wonders. From ancient kings with elegant taste whose works have left lasting impressions, to modern-day artists whose creations dazzle and inspire, Sri Lanka is a destination unveiling the curtain to a variety of artistic styles stemming from as far as two-and-a-half millennia. Today, many a visitor remains to flow into the heart of such historic cities as Colombo, Kandy and Galle and perhaps even to more remote parts of the island – Jaffna, to witness the vintage impressiveness that was once instilled on the island many a century ago. Above all, Sri Lanka is a testament to witnessing artistic impressions and creativity that have influenced the fabric of society from the times of antiquity, until the present day. Inherited in Sri Lanka through Celebrated personalities, such as the great Geoffrey Bawa – the ’43 group of artists, there are works of many prominent personalities that have paved the way for an architectural revolution to be explored in Sri Lanka. Artists such as Ena de Silva, who revived the country’s batik industry, Barbara Sansoni with her fabulous designs on cloth and paintings, Laki Senanayake master craftsman and one who dons many hats, have all introduced unbridled vibrancy and colours in their many creations across mediums.
Architecture is a prominent element on the island as the creations have to deal with the changing of monsoons humidity, and natural cooling systems bringing in the flow of air and light.
Our journey at Authenticities began with a collective passion for inspiring a world without mass tourism, but with bespoke travel experiences. Our mission is that you experience first impressions and expressions of this amazing island by connecting with cultures infused by our core values; authenticity, passion and connection.
Today, travel is increasingly about meeting people and getting to know them in their natural habitats. It is about going beyond the superficial and sharing perspectives, enriching oneself and others in the process. What leaves lasting impressions of a place or a journey are the people you have met along the way, the conversations you have had, and the stories you have exchanged. It is these deep-seated interfaces that enhance any travel experience.
With this in mind, we have successfully created a network of unique proprietors working closely with local communities, who are more involved and interactive in preserving the authentic Sri Lankan experience. We hope this will create a doorway for you to engage in immersive travel concepts with the guidance of exclusive local hosts who will let you in on discovering hidden gems and the back of beyond.
Over the millennia, successive invaders poured into Ceylon, bearing their language, technology, cuisine, art and above all, their religion. The Portuguese marched the lands with their sword and cross; the Dutch with ledger and lawbook; the British with roads and railways. The influence of each of these invasions though waning remains powerful yet still. Perhaps, travelling through the island you might notice much of these influences through the architecture of colonial buildings, the names of streets, the cuisine and even in an islander’s features. Although the impact didn’t wholly affect the indigenous lifestyles in the bygone era, the island’s fascination continues to arise from the extraordinary amalgamation of cultures afflicted in the past. You may discover yet that deep within an islander’s way of life, the customs and traditions remain intact as it was centuries ago.
While we love introducing visitors to the legacies and stories of the past, we are also conscious of the adverse effects of over-tourism. We walk the talk and ensure we are gentle with our resources. A consistent endeavour is to unearth lesser-known historical elements and present them with the utmost care. And for this, we are indebted to our regional experts who play a significant role in supporting our ideology.
Greetings, fellow wanderer!
Welcome to our corner of the world. We hope these words find you well. Let us take you on a journey through enchanting Sri Lanka, where cities and towns boast unique characters and cultures. Imagine the ocean-swept charm of Galle, with its Dutch and Portuguese influences, or Colombo, the vibrant capital where tradition meets cosmopolitan energy. Picture Kandy, culturally rich with its laid-back charm and misty weather. Then there’s Jaffna, known for its red earth, devout shrines, colourful saris, and proud ancestry.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a simple yet nuanced delight, bursting with spices and colours. Herbs and spices are tossed, fried, simmered, sizzled, and roasted to create a feast for the palate. Whether you’re savouring street food or traditional dishes, every meal is crafted with love. From egg hoppers to herbal porridge “kola kenda,” and Dutch-influenced “lamprais” to water buffalo curd with palm syrup, each dish offers a wild culinary ride.
Sri Lanka offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, wildlife, nature reserves, pristine beaches, engaging people, and exquisite cuisine. The island’s infrastructure is advancing, with efficient connectivity from the Colombo airport to various parts of this pearl-shaped paradise. The presence of local and global hospitality brands enhances the experience.
When you choose Sri Lanka, Authenticities becomes your ultimate travel partner, dedicated to crafting a flawless holiday tailored to your preferences, ensuring incredible memories. We organize immersive, authentic experiences that showcase the country’s splendours. Allow Authenticities to guide you on this journey.
Our approach transcends traditional travel by integrating classic concepts with community interactions, offering close encounters with local cultures and lifestyles.
Come explore, discover, and intimately know a culture upheld by its warm people, rich past, and vibrant habitats. Join this timeless adventure.
Here’s to exploring new horizons,
Team Authenticities