Who We Are
Established in 1984, Lanka Vacations is a privately owned, limited liability company that rapidly gained a reputation as a dynamic Inbound Tour Operator handling charter groups, series bookings, individual traffic and special interest packages ( birdwatching etc) in Sri-Lanka
Experienced
In Quality Tours
From tropical, soft-sand beaches and warm inviting seas, a four hour journey by road or rail leads to breath taking mountain scenery, tea covered slopes and temperate climes in the south central hills; to the proud immensity of historical Ancient Cities.
Why Choose Us
Wealth of Experience since 1984
Founded by one of the pioneers in the tourism industry of Sri Lanka – late Mr. Irfan Farook, Lanka Vacations had gained a wealth of experience over the years. Since its inception servicing travelers from across the globe starting from the Japanese in the very fast east to Malaysians, Thai, Indian, Middle Eastern, German, Austrian, Spanish, Swiss & British to North Americas, has given us the ability to comprehend your specific requirements for a perfect holiday in our paradise island.
Tailormade Tour Planning
We take `` personalized service `` to a new level by placing a great deal of emphasis on the services we offer. Most of our clients are met in person by the Management at least once during their stay to ensure all travel needs are being met with the highest standards of quality. One distinct feature of the company is that the full time working Directors and senior operations staff are available on call 24 hours a day all year through to ensure a smooth and efficient operation. In essence, we are geared towards making your ``Sri Lankan experience`` a memorable one!
Prompt Response Team
We understand that instantaneous answers have become almost a requirement in the world we live in today. We do our utmost to ensure speedy responses to all your questions and concerns. We are contactable 24 hours a day no matter which time zone you live. while working around the clock with our partners and stakeholders we ensure you get accurate information in a timely manner making the whole experience seamless for you.
Personnel
Lanka Vacations is more than a tour operator; it is a family legacy woven into the fabric of Sri Lankan tourism. Our story began in 1984, founded by the late Mr. Irfan Farook, a pioneer who dedicated over 50 years to the travel trade. Alongside him was his wife, Mrs. Cherahzarde Farook, a respected industry leader who served on the committee of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) for over 12 years.
For the past 10 years, Mrs. Cherahzarde Farook proudly served as Chief Executive Officer of Lanka Vacations, helping shape the company’s vision, values, and growth. Her leadership, integrity, and passion laid the foundation for who we are today, and her impact continues to inspire our team and partners across the industry. We honor her legacy with deep gratitude and respect.
Our Main Line of Business
As a Tour Operator, Lanka Vacations acts in the capacity of a Destination Management company to meet its clients’ every need. It has access to a fleet of fully insured luxury air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers/ Tourist Board licensed English and multilingual speaking chauffeurs & national guides. Lanka Vacations offers day excursions cultural, nature & wildlife tours as well as special interest packages – including tailor made itineraries and “Go as you please tours” which gives the client complete flexibility.
Since its inception Lanka Vacations has had the opportunity to work with many world renowned Tour operators:
- Kreutzer Touristik, Munich, Germany for 19 years
- Ruefa Reisen and Joe Far Tours, Austria
- Explorer Tours and Travels, Switzerland
- FTI Touristik , Munich, Germany
- Kanoo Holidays, K.S.A.
- Vaishali Travels, World Air Service & Travel Sekai from Japan
- Topaz Travels from Malaysia
- Arkan Travel and Tourism Dammam of Saudi Arabia and several others
- Ornitholidays Sussex UK
The Next Generation: Global Standards, Local Expertise
Following the passing of our founders—Mr. Irfan in 2015 and Mrs. Cherahzarde in June 2025—Lanka Vacations continues its journey under the leadership of their son, Aman Farook, as CEO.
Aman brings a sophisticated global vision to the company, having completed both his Undergraduate and Master’s degrees in the United States. His professional foundation was further strengthened through his experience in Recreational Management in the U.S., where he gained firsthand exposure to Western service standards, guest safety, and world-class leisure operations.
Today, Aman leads Lanka Vacations into a new chapter—one that honors the company’s heritage while embracing innovation, modern hospitality standards, and the evolving needs of international travelers.
Industry Leadership
Continuing the family’s longstanding commitment to the tourism industry, Aman serves as a Committee Member of SLAITO, actively contributing to the elevation of tourism standards across Sri Lanka. He is supported by a global-minded Board of Directors:
- Alia Zuhfer — Business Development (Americas)
• Altaf Farook — Business Development (GCC)
The Lanka Vacations Difference
With over 40 years of experience, we specialize in transforming travel into storytelling. We provide international travelers with the confidence and peace of mind that comes from combining Western professional discipline with four decades of trusted local expertise and on-the-ground connections.
- Bespoke Itineraries — From luxury individual travel to complex charter groups.
• Special Interests — Expertly curated experiences in birdwatching, wildlife, culture, and heritage tourism.
• A Family Promise — Every itinerary is handled with the care, warmth, and personal attention that only a second-generation family business can provide.
We invite you to experience Sri Lanka through the eyes of a family that has been welcoming the world to our island home for over four decades.
Board of Directors
Mrs. Cherahzarde Farook (Co-Founder)
Mr. Aman Farook (CEO)
Memberships
Explore Sri Lanka
From tropical, soft-sand beaches and warm inviting seas, a four hour journey by road or rail leads to breath taking mountain scenery, tea covered slopes and temperate climes in the south central hills; to the proud immensity of historical Ancient Cities once metropolises of great civilizations; to fabled mines of sapphires and ruby, moonstone and topaz; or to Game parks rich in wildlife.
Our Location
The office of Lanka Vacations since 1990 is centrally located in the heart of Colombo. All five star hotels of Colombo, major shopping districts, airlines, banks, The Tourist Board offices and embassies are all located within a radius of two kilometers. The office is elegantly styled, air conditioned and has car parking facilities.