Fuel purchases are being capped by the Sri Lankan government; a four-day working week has been instituted with every Wednesday declared a holiday for public institutions, including schools; and now the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is proposing a tourism fuel quota, which can be applied for through its website, to help prop up and shield the sector.

Sri Lanka just declared every Wednesday a public holiday. Government offices closed. Schools shut. Universities dark. Effective March 18. The Commissioner General of Essential Services confirmed it. The reason is fuel conservation.

But fuel is not the crisis. Fuel is the… pic.twitter.com/r2vvhFv7cZ

— Shanaka Anslem Perera (@shanaka86) March 17, 2026

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) estimated earlier in March that the conflict between Israel and the US, and Iran, and the resulting closing of airspace and the Strait of Hormuz, was costing the trade €600 million every day. For Sri Lanka, which relies heavily on connecting flights through major international hubs like Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Dubai, the impact has been undeniable. Arrivals for the first half of March plummeted by over 52% year-on-year, from 229,298 to just 109,410 visitors.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe acknowledged but underplayed the impact that the Middle East conflict has already had, saying: “The Middle East is a transit point for tourists arriving from European countries. We see a drop in tourist arrivals from such transit flights. But tourists are arriving via direct flights. However, there is a notable 25-30% drop in tourists from the Middle East at present,” he added.

The fuel shortage has led Sri Lanka to rekindle its “Fuel Pass QR code” rationing system, first seen during the republic’s 2022 financial woes. Special dispensations will be in place for a number of key industries, such as farming, medical and school suppliers, and public transport and tourism. This means special fuel supply arrangements will be applied via the Sri Lanka Transport Board, with part of the remit to ensure tourism operators are able to procure fuel to continue their service offer uninterrupted.

Fuel per vehicle per week under the QR Code system increased from Midnight today.
Buses – 100 L
Motorcycles – 8
Motor cars – 25 L
Vans – 50 L
Land Vehicles – 40 L
Three-Wheelers – 20 L pic.twitter.com/TT3ICQE1b5

— Sri Lanka Tweet (@SriLankaTweet) March 21, 2026

Describing the fuel allocations, Ranasinghe said: “A similar system was introduced in the past. A discussion took place today. We hope to introduce the new system by this evening with the aim of ensuring that those in the tourism sector can carry out their work without any issues.”

Although international officials, such as the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), warn that Sri Lankan government services will remain inaccessible on Wednesdays, the Sri Lanka Tourism Information Centre has set up a 24/7 tourism hotline offering advice and guidance to visitors affected by airspace closures in the Gulf region.

Meanwhile, the situation could see a turnaround if more airlines decide to shift capacity away from Middle East or Gulf hubs. British Airways, for example, has expanded its network in response to both the Middle East conflict and fuel crisis, and customer demand for “alternative getaways,” in a travel market that, it says, remains strong.

L’article Sri Lanka introduces support for tourist sector hit by Middle East crisis est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

With Jaffna, Sri Lanka, ranked first in Lonely Planet’s 2026 “Most Exciting Destinations” (and the only Asian destination in the top 15), the country is building momentum. A resort claimed to be the nation’s largest private investment launched in Colombo’s City of Dreams in 2025, marking what developers said was “a new benchmark in South Asia for world-class lifestyle, entertainment, and retail offerings.” And mid-way through the year, officials added 33 countries to their free visa for 30-day stays scheme, taking the total beneficiaries to 40.

Tourist visas have since become available by app. Now, according to an official statement, another shift in visa policy is designed to “attract foreign professionals who wish to live and work remotely from Sri Lanka, while serving clients or companies based outside the country.”

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To be eligible, the foreign national must be at least 18 years old and engaged in remote employment, freelancing or own a business (not registered in Sri Lanka) that serves clients outside Sri Lanka. The minimum monthly income requirement for an individual is USD $2,000.

Main applicants are permitted to bring spouses and dependents, but the minimum income threshold goes up by an additional USD $500 for every dependent over two people. Application fees also apply. It costs USD $500 per year, per person.

Applicants will need to submit:

• A completed visa application form
• A request letter from the applicant
• Photocopy of passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Marriage Certificate (for spouse)
• Birth Certificate (for dependants)
• A completed security clearance form
• A medical clearance report
• Proof of a clean criminal record from the home country police (dating no further back than three months)
• International health insurance coverage valid in Sri Lanka
• Recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy
• Proof of the minimum monthly remittance for the main applicant and the dependents

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Applications go to the Department of Immigration and Emigration, where they are evaluated for eligibility and compliance, leading, if successful, to approval. Once issued, the visa lasts one year but can be extended, subject to resupplying the required documents and proof of tax and registration via the Inland Revenue.

Digital nomad visa holders are entitled to reside legally in Sri Lanka for up to 12 months, renewable annually; open and maintain personal bank accounts in Sri Lanka; enter into property agreements; enrol children into international or private schools; and access Sri Lankan co-working spaces, ICT programs, and tourism-related events organized by the government or private sector.

L’article Sri Lanka launches digital nomad visa est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The new measure represents a shift away from the previous Sri Lankan policy that allowed some visitors to obtain their travel authorization on arrival. The change will apply, according to embassy sources, to all foreign citizens, even those hailing from the seven nations (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand) that are exempt from ETA fees. The Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka & Mission to the EU told Travel Tomorrow that their fee exemption is still active, as is a fee waiver under reciprocal/bilateral agreements for passport holders of the Seychelles, Maldives, and Singapore.

Sri Lanka announced in July 2025 that it would be extending that ETA fee waiver to a further 33 countries in what industry figures such as Amrit Rajaratnam, Managing Director of hospitality company Island Life, called “a strong step forward in making Sri Lanka more accessible and competitive as a destination.” Rajaratnam hoped at the time that the move would “generate a meaningful boost in arrivals. Globally, the current trend in tourism-driven countries is to adapt the visa-free format.” 

New Update on issuance of Visa

Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) from 15 October 2025#DiplomacyLk pic.twitter.com/2XeX9zlU8B

— SRI LANKA DHC (@SLDHCinChennai) October 14, 2025

At the time of writing, countries on that fee waiver waiting list still need to await parliamentary approval for their exemption, according to the Sri Lankan Ambassador Chandana Weerasena, speaking to Travel Tomorrow. Until that green light, they will still have to obtain the ETA and pay the $50 fee, doing so, according to the latest news, prior to arrival.

Nonetheless, at a business and tourism promotion event at Brussels Press Club, Weeraseena told Travel Tomorrow that visitors who arrive without a prepaid and pre-approved ETA will usually still be able to obtain one after arrival. Emphasising how quick and easy the pre-approval process is, Weeraseena said the new rules are designed to give visitors certainty and remove administrative hassle from their holiday. “Some tourists really want to get everything in hand and go,” he said. “It’s just about five minutes to get the approval, so then you have a print-out.”

Once obtained, the ETA is valid for six months from the date of issue, with stays of up to 30 days authorised within that period (extensions can be obtained via local authorities). In the words of Malik J. Fernando, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance, speaking this summer: “For most visitors, what truly matters is an efficient online visa process.”

However, the ongoing lack of clarity over which countries will benefit from a fee waiver could be argued to introduce a degree of uncertainty that Sri Lankan travel and tourism stakeholders may not welcome. They are being encouraged to ensure the new rules are clearly and promptly communicated to visitors.

Sri Lankan authorities, meanwhile, insist the new ETA process will simplify and strengthen border security and make tourists’ lives easier by aligning with best practices from around the world. The country is aiming for three million visitors and $5 billion in tourism revenue for 2025, and has so far reached in excess of 1.7 million visitors.

L’article Sri Lanka now requires ETA prior to arrival for all international visitors est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

“One of the safest countries in the world”

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Weeresena said Sri Lanka “has a story to share with Europe and Belgians” about the positive transition of the Sri Lankan economy. After issues faced in 2022, inflation targets are now being met and GDP and revenue are outperforming expectations, demonstrating the country’s “remarkable” economic recovery, he said. What’s more, he argued that as “one of the safest countries in the world,” Sri Lanka’s political stability and neutrality provide a fertile business environment – that will be further showcased both at the Embassy’s Belgium and Luxembourg Business Council in November 2025, and at the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit, from 2 to 3 December, 2025 in Colombo, which can be attended physically and virtually.

Meanwhile both Commercial Minister Mullegamgoda, and Deputy Foreign Minister Hemachandra focused on Sri Lanka’s “strategic Indian Ocean location” as an economic, logistics, and tech hub sitting between the economic powerhouses of India and China, and its GSP+ preferential market access not only to the EU but also a range of other nations including the USA, the UK, Canada, Switzerland and Türkiye.

Friendly destination for families and solo travel

As well as top export products such as apparel, tea and spices, and industrial minerals, and areas for investment such as IT, Sri Lanka’s quality of life and tourism offer were hot topics. Named Conde Nast Travel’s most family-friendly destination, Time Out’s top destination for solo female travel in 2024, and among BBC Travel’s top 25 places to visit in 2025, Sri Lanka was also voted Lonely Planet’s No. 1 Country to Visit twice in one decade, noted Sampath Nishshanka, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Board. Nishshanka attributed that success to the island’s winning combination of compactness (just twice the size of Belgium) and varied charms. 

“Travellers can experience incredible variety within just a few hours,” he said, flagging historic fort cities, one of the world’s most scenic train rides, tea plantations, and Indian Ocean beaches, as well as Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO heritage sites, 26 national parks, and astonishing biodiversity, from the highest density of leopards in the world, to the ability to show visitors both blue whales and elephants in the same day.

In addition, Travel Tomorrow Editor-in-Chief António Buscardini shared insights from his recent press trip to Sri Lanka, organised by Travel Tomorrow in April 2025. Drawing on his experience, he spoke about the warmth of the people, the country’s extraordinary natural and historical sites, the Portuguese and Dutch legacy, and the timeless ayurveda wellness traditions.

All these elements, place “Sri Lanka in a strong position to compete in an increasingly competitive global tourism landscape, where 58% of the world’s 745 million travellers chose the European Union as their destination in 2024”, he noted.

Online travel authorisation

For would-be visitors, change is afoot in terms of online travel authorisation, which, from 15 October 2025, should be completed prior to travel. But, speaking exclusively to Travel Tomorrow, Ambassador Weerasena said that visitors will still be able to arrive and receive authorisation on the spot. The shift to prior online authorisation, he emphasised, was intended to better cater to travellers who prefer to know their admin is taken care of before their trip begins. “Some tourists really want to get everything in hand and go,” he said, underscoring how quick and convenient the application process will be. “It’s just about five minutes to get the approval, so then you have a print-out,” which he said eliminates any uncertainty.

After tourist arrivals reaching over two million in 2024 and year-on-year growth of 38%, Sri Lanka is targeting three million visitors for 2025, and five million by 2030.

L’article Sri Lanka seeks to boost tourism and trade relations with Belgium est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

To be clear, this is not exactly a visa-waiver programme, as it is being reported in some outlets. It does not scrap the need for a visa but is removing the $50-$60 cost for a short stay visa for the countries in question. Eligible travellers are still required to apply for an electronic travel authorisation, but will no longer need to pay visa fees.

That means the South Asian Democratic Republic is taking a gamble. It is sacrificing around $66 million in annual visa revenue and betting that the increased tourist income will make up for the loss, according to Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, announcing the plan on 25 July 2025. “We have stabilised the economy, and through policy changes in tourism, we aim to ensure steady growth in arrivals,” he said.

The move builds on a previous opening up, which saw free 30-day tourist visas offered to citizens of: China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, Thailand in March 2023 in a six-month trial. Those seven nations will continue to benefit from the scheme and 33 other countries have now been added to that list.

It is yet to be confirmed whether the need for an electronic visa application will still be in place going forward.

Some industry stakeholders across Sri Lanka appear happy with the effort, noting that it is line with current thinking around the world. “The initiative is a strong step forward in making Sri Lanka more accessible and competitive as a destination,” said Amrit Rajaratnam, Managing Director of hospitality company Island Life, Sri Lanka. “While it may not fully close the gap to the 3 million visitor target for 2025, it’s expected to generate a meaningful boost in arrivals. Globally, the current trend in tourism-driven countries is to adapt the visa-free format.” 

However to reach its tourism targets, Sri Lanka will need to increase tourist arrivals by nearly a third and grow revenues by nearly two thirds, a tall order, leading some to claim that scrapping the fee does not go far enough and is a distraction from strategic failures.

“For most visitors, what truly matters is an efficient online visa process, which Sri Lanka already offers,” said Malik J. Fernando, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance, reported by Skift. “The visa initiative should not serve as a smokescreen for the ongoing absence of a coherent international marketing campaign. Despite repeated proclamations, no meaningful effort has materialized, even though funds have long been available.”

L’article Sri Lanka waives visa fees for 40 countries to boost tourism est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Claimed to be the largest private investment in Sri Lanka, City of Dreams, in the heart of Colombo, along the Indian Ocean capital’s waterfront, will offer 800 rooms and suites. Guests have already had a taster at the already-launched luxury, 687-room “Cinnamon Life” branded hotel and 5-star and the 113-room “Nüwa” hotel under Melco’s flagship brand, but the full resort finally opens its doors on 2 August.

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“Nation-building through transformative investment”

There will be far more here than somewhere to sleep. The complete USD 1.2 billion mega- venture, led by John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, will also feature high-end hospitality, upscale retail, immersive entertainment, including a casino with table games, slot machines, and private VIP gaming rooms, as well as cutting-edge MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) accommodation.

Designed by British-Sri-Lankan architect and artist, Cecil Balmond, the complex takes elements from Sri Lankan vernacular like moonstones and guardstones, giving them a fresh, dynamic form, with a cantilever reflecting the shifting Sri Lankan society.

Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, said the “milestone” development was part of a “commitment to nation-building through transformative investments.” It would, he added, “significantly enhance Colombo’s tourism appeal, drive foreign exchange earnings, and create meaningful employment opportunities.”

Growth and jobs in an untapped market

Part of that vision is to drive up the standard and popularity of Sri Lankan hospitality by bringing in international know-how when it comes to luxury and gaming. That shift is expected to function as a catalyst for international arrivals from South Asia, particularly in the MICE segment.

The bold claims continue, with the resort complex therefore anticipated to boost economic growth, boost foreign exchange earnings and account for more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.

In terms of sustainability, the resort’s initiatives “focus on reducing electricity consumption, promoting energy efficient practices, and implementing comprehensive recycling programs,” according to the Cinnamon Life hotel website. Technology is a part of that. Meanwhile, the responsible tourism box is ticked by community commitments, over 1,000 pieces of local art displayed at the hotel, and involvement in cultural projects.

Recognising the power of the untapped market in Colombo and its would-be transformation, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said in a statement: “We are thrilled to be part of this landmark development in Sri Lanka and to be in partnership with John Keells. We believe Sri Lanka has immense potential, and this opportunity complements our existing portfolio of properties.”

L’article Sri Lanka to open billion-dollar luxury resort and casino in August 2025 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

1. Riff Hikkaduwa: contemporary design meets barefoot luxury

Riff Hikkaduwa was by far the highlight of the trip and one of the finest hotel experiences I’ve had anywhere in the world. This modern beachfront property blends minimalist architecture with warm Sri Lankan hospitality. Rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, many offering sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. The rooftop infinity pool and gourmet restaurant make this a perfect retreat after exploring Galle Fort or relaxing on the nearby beaches.

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Must-try: Sunset cocktails by the beach and the tasting menu at the rooftop restaurant

2. Cinnamon Lodge Habarana: lakeside serenity and colonial elegance

Set amid lush greenery beside a tranquil lake, Cinnamon Lodge exudes old-world charm. The colonial-style property is a peaceful haven after visiting the ancient cave temples of Dambulla or climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The warm, professional service and top-tier spa stood out. The massage experience here was exceptional.

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Don’t miss: An early morning walk around the property’s eco-trail followed by a traditional massage

3. Jetwing Beach Negombo: a refined welcome to Sri Lanka

The trip began at Jetwing Beach in Negombo, an elegant beachfront hotel that sets the tone for the journey. With spacious rooms, colonial architecture, direct beach access and attentive staff, it’s the perfect place to recover from a long flight. The property has a relaxed, tropical atmosphere, and the evening breeze from the Indian Ocean is unforgettable.

Highlight: The wellness centre at Jetwing Beach Negombo is excellent. I enjoyed an amazing massage.

4. Araliya Green City: a modern hub in the heart of tea country

In the heart of Sri Lanka’s highlands, Araliya Green City offers a modern contrast to the surrounding colonial architecture and tea plantations. Conveniently located in Nuwara Eliya, this hotel is a comfortable base to explore the region, with amenities such as an indoor pool and shopping arcade. While it lacks the charm of smaller boutique hotels, it is practical and well-equipped.

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Tip: Enjoy a warm cup of Ceylon tea after a walk near Gregory Lake

5. Mount Lavinia Hotel: full of history but in need of care

There is no denying the historic allure of Mount Lavinia Hotel. With roots tracing back to the British colonial era, the property offers magnificent views, a private beach and a legendary past. However, the rooms are dated and during my stay, cleanliness and staff preparedness were far below expectations. This hotel has incredible potential but would greatly benefit from investment and staff training.

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Worth visiting: For a drink at sunset overlooking the ocean, but not recommended for an overnight stay

L’article Five hotels to discover in Sri Lanka: from beachfront luxury to colonial charm est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The first tuk-tuks were introduced in Sri Lanka in the 1970s by the Indian Bajaj Auto Company, and since then, the vehicles have become a standard for many families. The three-wheeled scooter cars function as travelling shops, as family cars, and as taxis. At the moment, there are about 1.5 million tuk-tuks to be found throughout the country.

Since tourism took off in the country, travellers too have been fans of the mode of transport. They offer a way of travelling at a slower pace, without being isolated from the surroundings. While travelling with a tuk-tuk, one can still enjoy all the delicious smells and sounds, while soaking in all the magnificent sights Sri Lanka has to offer.

For a long time, however, renting a tuk-tuk wasn’t a possibility for foreigners. The only way they could enjoy the vehicle was by using it as a taxi, meaning their journeys were often limited to cities and their immediate surroundings. The startup TukTuk Rental has been changing that narrative since 2016.

The idea for self-driven tuk-tuks came to Thomas Cornish, an Australian civil engineer, who cycling through India. On the second day of his trip, he crashed his bike and was then offered an old tuk-tuk by a local in order to finish his journey. As he enjoyed the experience so much but found India too big to launch the self-driven tuk-tuk service, he and TukTuk Rental’s cofounders Richard McKeon and Wietse Sennema went looking for an alternative. They ended up in Sri Lanka and have raised about LKR 300 million ($1 million) for some 1,000 families in Sri Lanka since the launch of their business.

An authentic way of seeing the country

The idea behind TukTuk Rental is simple, yet unseen until TukTuk Rental’s launch. Locals can rent out their own personal tuk-tuk through the company, which can then be hired by tourists who want to experience Sri Lanka in a different way. Thanks to a collaboration with the Automobile Association of Ceylon, tourists-turned-tuk-tuk-drivers are legally covered while driving the three-wheelers. 

While the initiative offers travellers an authentic and flexible way of visiting the country at a slower pace, locals too are profiting from the TukTuk Rental. Many private tuk-tuks are purchased through leases due to the relatively high purchasing prices of the vehicles, meaning locals often need to work a second job in order to pay off that lease. Thanks to the self-driven tuk-tuks, they earn an extra income without having to actually work at night to drive tourists around.

@trackingourtravels It has everything we need! Use our link for £££ off your booking with tuktukrental! https://tuktukrental.com/?ref=nduyyzc Part 12 | Sri Lanka Series | Tour of our Tuk Tuk @tuktukrental.com #srilanka #tuktuk #tuktukrental #tuklife #tuktuktour #tour #localexperience #travelsrilanka #budget #budgetbackpacking #travel #backpackingasia #asia #travelcouple #backpacking #budgettravel #travelplanning #traveltips #fyp #foryou #srilankaitinerary #travelhacks #srilankaplanning #srilankathingstodo #thingstodo #tuktuktour ♬ original sound – Annie&Grant | Travel Couple

“As a social business, we pay people above the regular rate to ensure we are giving back to the community where we can. We have a fair contract with the local tuk-tuk owners so we can help them put food on the table for their families, and we pay them up to 5 times what they would otherwise get for their vehicle,” TukTuk Rental states.

Tourists who are visiting Sri Lanka and want to rent their own tuk-tuk can do so via TukTuk Rental’s website. Tuk-tuks can be dropped off at a hotel and can be collected elsewhere for an additional charge. When hiring a tuk-tuk, the fee includes comprehensive third-party insurance, unlimited mileage and 24/7 road support. Moreover, a driving lesson is provided at the start of the rental. Travellers are asked to send a copy of their International Driving Permit before their trip, allowing TukTuk Rental to provide them with a Sri Lankan Recognition Permit for $40 before their arrival.

L’article Self-drive tuk-tuks reshape travel in Sri Lanka est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Nutmeg: a spice that sailed the world

Nutmeg has long been prized for its flavour and medicinal value, but it also has a seafaring legacy. During the late 15th and early 16^th centuries, Portuguese navigators exploring the Indian Ocean during the time of Vasco da Gama encountered Sri Lanka’s rich natural resources. So abundant was the nutmeg in the region that they referred to the island as “Nutmeg Island,” recognising its strategic role in the spice trade routes.

Chandena explains, “Nutmeg was very valuable. Sailors chewed it when they felt seasick. It helped them stop vomiting and protected the stomach.” Even today, the spice holds its reputation as a natural digestive remedy. A traditional home remedy involves grating a small portion of nutmeg and mixing it with lime or lemon juice and a little water. “If you’re suffering from food poisoning, stomach pain or loose motion,” he says, “this drink can stop it in 10 to 15 minutes. It even kills bacteria like salmonella.”

Nutmeg continues to be used in Ayurvedic detox treatments and is valued in both cooking and natural medicine.

Cinnamon: the essence of Sri Lanka

Ceylon cinnamon, known locally as “true cinnamon,” is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic spices. Unlike cassia cinnamon, which is thicker and spicier, Ceylon cinnamon is thin, soft and curls easily into elegant quills. “We don’t use cassia here,” Chandena says. “Our cinnamon is sweeter, cleaner and healthier. You can even chew it directly.”

At the village, visitors can watch a skilled local gently peel back the bark to reveal the fragrant inner layer. Once dried and rolled, the cinnamon bar can be used in many ways. It can be infused in tea, simmered into rice, crushed into curry or chewed as a natural breath freshener. Medicinally, it supports blood circulation and helps balance blood sugar levels.

Now back home, I use a cinnamon bar every morning in my coffee. It adds a smooth, aromatic depth that makes the flavour feel both indulgent and healthy.

Red pineapple: detox from the soil

Close to the spice garden, red pineapples stand out with their striking colour and medicinal use. This variety is rich in bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and helps the body eliminate toxins.

Chandena explains, “We dry the fruit and powder it. Then we mix it with turmeric and Ceylon cinnamon. Together, they detoxify the body and reduce inflammation.” These blends are made into tablets and teas, forming part of the daily health routines promoted in Ayurveda.

Aloe vera: skin’s best companion

Along a shaded pathway, a plot of aloe vera thrives. The thick green leaves are cut on-site, revealing the soothing gel inside. “This is for the skin, for burns, for hydration,” Chandena says, squeezing the pulp into my hand.

Aloe vera is not just grown here; it is processed into oils, lotions and creams, all made with natural ingredients. These products are popular among visitors, particularly those looking for chemical-free skincare solutions.

Before leaving the village, I picked up two bottles of their Natural Aloe Vera lotion. Back home, it has become a staple in our family. Everyone loves it—for dry skin or just daily care. A true success.

The real curry experience: a moment to remember

For me, the most memorable part of the afternoon took place in a small, open-air kitchen at the centre of the village. A local woman stood by a grinding stone, gently pressing aromatic seeds and herbs. She smiled as she handed me a plate and invited me to take part in making a real Ayurvedic curry.

The blend included six core ingredients: cumin, coriander, clove, anise, black pepper and fennel. As she ground them together, the scent filled the air.

“These spices balance your body,” Chandena said. “Clove warms the blood and removes bacteria from meat. Coriander strengthens the immune system. Cumin and anise help with digestion and stomach problems. If you eat this kind of curry every day, your body will become balanced. You won’t need modern medicine.”

He added that supermarket curry powders often rely on turmeric or paprika for colour, but that Ayurvedic curry avoids heavy use of chilli. “We prefer black or white pepper. It is better for digestion.”

A perfect finish: massage and sustainable products

After a full afternoon of exploring, learning and tasting, visitors can enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage. Performed by trained therapists using locally made herbal oils, the treatment is based on efficient Sri Lankan techniques focused on restoring energy flow and easing muscle tension.

Before leaving the village, make sure to stop at the shop. It offers more than 40 sustainable products made directly at Isiwara—from spice blends and teas to skincare and oils. Each item supports local artisans and carries the essence of what visitors experience during the tour.

L’article Exploring the spice secrets of Isiwara Ayurvedic Village est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Inside the historic Old Dutch Hospital 

Ministry of Crab is not just about food; it is about atmosphere. The restaurant resides within a 400-year-old Dutch colonial building, meticulously restored to highlight its original structure. Exposed brick walls, high ceilings and a minimalist interior direct all attention to the seafood. Open kitchens and live crab tanks provide visitors with a glimpse into the heart of the operation.

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Celebrating Sri Lankan Crustaceans

Ministry of Crab’s menu showcases the best of Sri Lanka’s seafood. The star of the show is the lagoon crab, served in a range of flavours such as chilli, pepper, garlic or classic Sri Lankan curry. There are also freshwater prawns and a rich king prawn bisque, offering something for anyone who enjoys quality seafood.

During our visit, Travel Tomorrow sat down with Chef Dharshan Munidasa, a self-taught culinary expert who has been instrumental in elevating Sri Lanka’s dining scene. “We are not just a crab restaurant. We are a celebration of what Sri Lanka has to offer the world,” Munidasa explained. “Our crabs are 100% Sri Lankan, and we refuse to serve anything that is not up to standard.”

Born to a Sri Lankan father and a Japanese mother, Munidasa has been a leading figure in advancing Sri Lanka’s contemporary food culture. His work has also been recognised internationally. He was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun by the Japanese government for promoting Japanese cuisine globally.

Munidasa’s passion for quality is evident in every detail. No frozen products. No shortcuts. Everything is fresh, including the famed Sri Lankan lagoon crabs, which are available in a variety of preparations such as pepper, garlic, chilli, or curry.

My dégustation journey

My dégustation journey began with clams, which, as a Portuguese, I’m a big fan of. The clams were fresh and carried a subtle fusion character. They were prepared simply, in a Japanese style using butter and soy sauce, yet served with garlic bread reminiscent of what you might find in Portugal or Italy.

Next came the Giant Prawn Pepper. Cooked à la minute in Italian olive oil, Japanese soy sauce, garlic, and chilli flakes

The pièce de résistance was the Garlic Chilli Crab. This dish brings together the finest Sri Lankan mud crab with the bold heat of chilli flakes, garlic, Italian olive oil and Japanese soy sauce. An absolute must.

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Everything is cooked to order, and portion sizes depend on the crab’s weight, which can go up to a whopping 2kg. I can guaranteed that a 2-kilo crab is impressive. 

International recognition: from Colombo to Melbourne

Ministry of Crab has consistently ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, peaking at No. 29 in 2021 and still holding strong in the extended list at No. 58 in 2025. But Munidasa is quick to emphasize that awards aren’t the goal: serving the best local seafood is.

From its origins in Colombo, Ministry of Crab has expanded its presence to international cities including Shanghai, Manila, Mumbai, Bangkok, and most recently, Melbourne. Yet each outlet keeps the Colombo DNA intact — Sri Lankan seafood, Sri Lankan standards, no compromise.

L’article Ministry of Crab — Where Sri Lankan seafood gets star treatment est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.