Randil Tours Journal

Stories from the road

Guides, tips and tales from across Sri Lanka — written for travellers who want to see the island as a local would.

Jun 23, 2026foodculture

10 Sri Lankan Dishes You Have to Try (And Where to Find Them)

Forget the hotel buffet. Here are the dishes I make every guest try at least once, and the towns where they're done best.

Jun 20, 2026planningweather

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka: The Two-Monsoon Cheat Sheet

Sri Lanka has two monsoons hitting opposite coasts at opposite times. Here's how to use that to your advantage instead of getting rained on.

Jun 17, 2026trainshill-country

The Kandy–Ella Train: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Tickets, seats, timings, photo spots, and the small mistakes I see travellers make on Sri Lanka's most famous train ride.

Jun 14, 2026sigiriyacultural-triangle

Sigiriya vs Pidurangala: Which Rock Should You Actually Climb?

They sit a kilometre apart and travellers ask me this every week. Here's an honest comparison so you can pick the right one — or do both.

Jun 11, 2026itineraryplanning

First Time in Sri Lanka? Here's a 7-Day Itinerary That Actually Works

A realistic week-long route through Sri Lanka built from years of guiding first-time visitors — culture, hill country, wildlife and a beach finish without burning out.