Day 02 – 14 October 2024
Delayed Flights and a Warm Sri Lankan Welcome
The following morning tested our patience. Our flight to Colombo was delayed by nearly four hours, turning the airport wait into a long exercise in endurance. Yet spirits remained high, and the excitement of travelling together helped the hours pass quickly.
By the time we finally landed in Sri Lanka, evening had already fallen. But the island greeted us with warmth from the very first moment.
At the airport, we were welcomed by our cheerful tour operator Mano, our knowledgeable guide Shiromi, and our dependable driver Sanath, who would safely accompany us throughout the journey.
The drive from Colombo to Kandy took nearly three hours. As the city lights faded behind us, the roads slowly climbed into Sri Lanka’s cool central hills. Though exhausted from the long day, we were captivated by the changing landscape — winding roads, distant mountains, and the occasional glimpse of mist drifting across the hills.
Close to 10 PM, we finally arrived at Hotel Topaz in Kandy. Perched high above the city, the hotel offered stunning night views of Kandy’s twinkling lights below.
Most of the group retired immediately after check-in, but Girish, Shiromi, and I stayed awake a little longer, enjoying a light meal and a quiet drink while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Sri Lanka had already begun to work its magic.
