Planning an overseas trip with friends? Although Sri Lanka might not be the first destination that comes to mind, trust us when we say that it’s a truly special place. In a recent article, we covered what to expect from a Sri Lankan Garden Adventure, but today, we’re going to shine a light on why these tours are best enjoyed with friends and family.

So, if you’re searching for somewhere unique, vibrant, and beautiful, Sri Lanka is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean: A quick ecological history of Sri Lanka

With its unique geographical location, tropical climate, and natural biodiversity, the island of Sri Lanka is incomparable to anywhere else in the world. The gardens here are shaped by centuries of cultivation, cultural significance and natural cycles.

In the lowlands, orchids hang from trees, palms tower overhead, and rivers reflect vibrant greenery. Higher up, the cooler temperatures allow roses, dahlias, and temperate plants to thrive.

Many of Sri Lanka’s gardens are the result of a convergence between human curiosity and natural abundance. Royal gardens preserved native plants and simultaneously introduced new species, while colonial estates experimented with plants brought from other continents. Today, these gardens mix the exotic and the endemic.

The sheer diversity dotted across the island makes every corner distinct and different. Flowers, trees, and wildlife all play a role in creating a living tapestry.

Galle Lighthouse

Why Sri Lanka Garden Tours are best shared with friends

A journey through Sri Lanka’s gardens is memorable on its own, but having friends along really adds a different level of energy, curiosity, and shared sense of adventure. It could be the moments captured by photos and videos, or conversations in awe-inspiring locations, but every trip is more memorable when shared.

Noticing more together

As you stroll through Sri Lanka’s beautiful gardens and forests, friends might just spot details that you’d otherwise miss. Each person tends to notice something different, which encourages everyone to pay closer attention. Sharing these observations really enriches the overall experience, all while making the gardens feel fuller and more alive.

Bevis Bawa’s Brief Garden, Colombo

Friendly challenges

Travelling together opens the door to a little fun, light-hearted competition. Spotting wildlife, identifying plants, or guessing spices in Matale can turn exploration into a game. The friendly rivalry keeps everyone engaged and encourages observation without pressure. It adds an interactive element that makes each visit more lively.

Capturing memories

Photos are richer when friends are included, not to mention easier to set up and take! Imagine a photo of you and your friends near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Golden Temple of Dambulla, or the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. It might sound simple, but these images really capture shared experiences and complement your other footage of the gardens.

The incredible Sigiriya Rock Fortress

At the end of the trip, you’ll all be able to look back at this footage and reminisce on the good times together.

Learning from each other

Sri Lanka is full of hidden details and surprises. With a few friends in tow, you’ll all naturally notice different things, ask questions, and spark conversations. Sharing discoveries encourages curiosity and makes the walk more dynamic. It also allows people to learn from one another, turning a simple stroll into a richer experience.

Experiencing special moments together

Some moments are more meaningful when shared. Watching elephants gather at Minneriya National Park or admiring the sunrise over Sigiriya Rock is amplified when friends are beside you. Seeing reactions and hearing observations adds depth. These moments become collective memories that remain vivid long after the trip.

Sri Lanka’s abundant tea fields

Making new connections

Joining a tour is a great way to strengthen bonds with your friends, but it also allows you to make connections with others in the group; especially given the shared sense of appreciation for horticulture and nature that’s likely to exist.

Who knows, you might just click and create a brand-new circle of friends! When the tour ends, you’ll automatically share a unique bond with each other and create memories that last a lifetime.

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Orchids at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Peradeniya is near Kandy and covers a large area with over 4,000 plant species. Orchids, bamboo groves, and the massive double coconut palm are highlights. Monkeys swing through the trees and fruit bats hang overhead. Walking with friends allows everyone to notice different plants and wildlife. Paths lead through formal garden beds and wild areas, keeping the experience varied and engaging.

Nuwara Eliya

The Grand Hotel, Nuwara Eliya

The highlands around Nuwara Eliya are cooler, which allows roses, dahlias, and begonias to flourish. The gardens at The Grand Hotel feature trimmed hedges, flowerbeds, and pathways lined with lavender. Friends can stroll together, pause for photographs, or simply enjoy tea while watching the mist roll over the hills. Every glance reveals new details and makes the walk feel immersive.

Hakgala Botanic Gardens

High in the mountains, Hakgala offers misty trails, tree ferns, orchids, and temperate fruits. Originally planted to grow quinine, the gardens now mix experimental plots, themed areas, and forested trails. Friends can point out rare species, observe sunbirds, or watch monkeys play in the trees. The mix of cultivated and wild areas keeps each path interesting.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Gardens

Sigiriya rises nearly 200 metres above the plains. Its surrounding gardens include Miniature, Pavilion, Fountain, Moated, Octagon Pond, and Boulder Terraced areas. Water lilies float in ponds, jasmine scents the air, and crested serpent eagles soar overhead. Walking these paths with friends turns every viewpoint into a shared adventure. The combination of exercise, scenery, and history makes the day rewarding.

Lunuganga Estate

Geoffrey Bawa’s estate near Galle blends lakes, topiary, and jungle views. Trees like jackfruit and margosa grow alongside exotic species. Exploring with friends allows conversation about plantings, sculptures, and water features. Lunuganga is designed to guide the eye and encourage curiosity. Seeing it together creates a sense of discovery and shared appreciation.

These are just some of the incredible locations waiting for you on our Sri Lanka Garden Tours!

Book an unforgettable adventure with Ross Tours

Originating from a love of exploring the world with friends, our tours are crafted to deliver unforgettable experiences. Our Sri Lanka Tours are led by expert tour leaders, feature deluxe accommodation and are full of unforgettable memories. We aim to make every journey relaxed, inspiring, and full of fun.

Graham and Sandra Ross, our founders, are renowned pioneers of the garden tour market in Australia. We’ve taken over 25,000 Australians to more than 1,000 gardens on four continents. Our story might’ve begun over 45 years ago, but our passion for travel is just as strong today as it’s ever been.

Travelling with friends transforms your visit into a shared adventure full of laughter, conversations, and discovery that all become a part of the experience. So, this coming February, grab your companions and come along with us for an adventure of a lifetime!