To mark the occasion, Resplendent Ceylon has launched an upgraded journey through ‘Tea, Sea & Safari’, uncovering the best of the island’s tea country, southern coastline, and wild jungles.
Resplendent Ceylon, Sri Lanka’s leading luxury hospitality brand, proudly marks its 20th anniversary this year, coinciding with 40 years of mother brand, Dilmah Tea, the iconic and ethical tea company founded by Merrill J. Fernando. These two parallel legacies share a philosophy rooted in excellence, authenticity and a deep pride in Sri Lankan heritage.
Since launching Ceylon Tea Trails in 2005 as the world’s first tea bungalow resort on a working estate, Resplendent Ceylon has consistently set the benchmark for experiential travel across the island. Its unique circuit of boutique resorts now includes Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala and Cape Weligama on the southern coast, offering you a distinctive journey through tea country, jungle wilderness and coastal charm.
In celebration of this milestone, Resplendent Ceylon has curated a ‘Tea, Sea and Safari’ 10-night journey across all three of its award-winning properties. This itinerary has been designed to offer you a once-in-a-lifetime experience that encapsulates the spirit of Sri Lanka’s landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality.
Highlights of the anniversary journey include a private tea tasting hosted by the Resident Planter at Dunkeld Estate in Hatton, a scenic helicopter transfer to the Elephant Transit Home near Yala, a full-day guided safari experience, and an immersive Southern Riviera culinary adventure at Cape Weligama. You will also receive bespoke memorabilia, including a limited-edition commissioned painting, an engraved anniversary badge and a personalised Dilmah tea collection with signed editions of three iconic Sri Lankan books.
Looking ahead, Resplendent Ceylon remains committed to responsible expansion. Upcoming properties include Canopy Lodge in Sigiriya, located near the island’s ancient cultural triangle, and Kelburne Estate in the cool hills of Haputale. These developments will further the brand’s vision of meaningful, purposeful travel rooted in community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Commenting on the anniversary, Malik J. Fernando, Chairman and Managing Director of Resplendent Ceylon and son of Dilmah founder Merrill J. Fernando, said: “Sri Lanka is a small island, but one of immense richness. Tourism can play a vital role in supporting our economy and sharing our unique story with the world. At Resplendent Ceylon, we are committed to thoughtful growth, ensuring that purpose, community and authenticity remain at the core of everything we do.”
Guided by the Dilmah philosophy of business as a matter of human service, Resplendent Ceylon’s operations continue to be underpinned by local collaboration, environmental responsibility, and a deep focus on social upliftment. The brand continues to redefine luxury as an enriching, meaningful experience for both guests and the island nation. As Resplendent Ceylon marks two decades of innovation and impact, it reaffirms its mission to raise the bar for sustainable luxury travel in Sri Lanka and to position the island as a world-class destination of culture, beauty, and soul.
