Sri Lanka’s art history dates back more than 2,000 years and includes ancient temple paintings, rock sculptures of Lord Buddha and frescoes. Dambulla’ s ancient cave temple consists of a rock ceiling which is one large sweep of colorful frescoes, depicting Buddhist mythology. The ancient sculptures of Lord Buddha at the Gal Viahara in Polonnaruwa cut into granite stone, date back to the 12th century. Sigiriya’s Rock Fortress is famous for the Sigiriya frescoes – ancient paintings of maidens that date back to the 5th century. Contemporary Art can be found at the National Art Gallery, Sapumal Foundation, and the Lionel Wendt Gallery. They also hold exhibitions regularly in Colombo’s art galleries including Barefoot Art Gallery and Paradise Road Gallery Café. Up and coming young artists are encouraged to display their works at the annual `Kala Pola’ – an art fair that is held on Green Path in Colombo 7. (More)

Arts and crafts provide invaluable cottage industries, especially around Kandy. Different villages in Kandy specialize in specific artistic skills that have passed between generations, including drum making, mat weaving, wood carving and cane and reedware. The roadside is lined with small shops selling baskets, furniture and other household items. Purchasing at source from these villages brings vital income and preserves these ancient crafts. Handwoven Beeralu lace (pillow lace) is a recognised national craft and a vital source of income for rural women of the south coast. This intricate, handmade pillow lace is woven into exquisite tablecloths, doilies, and clothing accessories. Sri Lanka is known for precious and semi-precious gem stones which are found around Ratnapura. (More)

Traditional dance forms in Sri Lanka dates back to the 4th century B.C. and are associated with rituals and ceremonies performed for purposes of expelling sickness and misfortune and for blessings. Several classical dance forms evolved over the centuries and varied with each region of the island. Presently, three main dance forms are performed – Kandyan (upcountry), Sabaragamuwa (central province), and Ruhunu (low country) dance forms. Each of these unique styles differs in dress including elaborate headgear, rhythm of the drums, dance movements, and songs, which are based on regional folklore. (More)

Sinhala drama is vibrant and plays a significant role in communicating folklore to political and social issues. English theatre is disappointingly limited, but there are occasional local productions. (More)

Sri Lankan writers have made major contributions to English literature. In 2007 this literary interest reached new heights with the inaugural Galle Literary Festival. The festival was immediately listed by Harpers Bazaar listing the festival as one of six most appealing literary festivals in the world. (More)

Western pop and rock predominates in tourist areas. Local music ranges from the classics to baila (influenced by Portuguese rhythms), to the modern blend of Sinhala rap and hip hop. Live performances from local groups are still a staple in music bars, small nightclubs and hotels. (More)

We have put together several itineraries that let you experience the sounds and rhythms of this tropical island.  You can visit remote villages where intricate skills are turned into beautiful crafts, see a perehara with its pulsating rhythms that even the elephants move to, learn Kadyan drumming or designing gem studded jewellery.  You may also wish to attend next year’s Galle Literary Festival.  The choice is yours.  We will be happy to change the itineraries to suite your interests.

• Island Rhythms
• Colours of Sri Lanka
• Galle Literary Festival – Nirmaana
• Galle Literary Festival – Saahithya
• Bawa Gems
• Rural villages & Indigenous cultures