Joanna James
A drop of paradise nestled amidst the wide-open Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka never fails to amaze its droves of tourists with its abundance of exciting activities to do, given the island nation's itty-bitty size. Get out and about; soak up everything the idyllic tropical island has to offer you.
Home to the country's only international airport and commercial capital, the city of Colombo almost never takes centre stage on any holiday itinerary ever. More often than not, it is merely the only gateway into the island nation for most tourists. The bustling metropolis may not be remotely as scenic as the central hills or as idyllic as the down south, but a one or two-day tour of the city would be totally worth your while. Venture out into the lively streets and experience Sri Lanka's city that never sleeps.
The South Asian country of Sri Lanka is deeply proud of its 2,500-year-old heritage, which they, without question, should totally be, given the countless historical and cultural sites peppered throughout the island nation. Make your way to Kandy, the picturesque cultural capital of Sri Lanka that draws tourists in droves, who come to visit the world-renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic. To go back in time to ancient kingdoms, venture off to Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa in the north-central, where a slew of old-world, authentically Sri Lankan architectural wonders await, harking back to the glorious past.
As a pear-shaped island nation ringed by nothing but golden sands, your trip to Sri Lanka would never be complete without at least a few beaches on the itinerary. Lounge under swaying palms, bask in the sun and let the stunning shores treat you to a fantastic beach gateway like no other. Vacationing tourists could also find an abundance of hotels and eateries set just a stone's throw away from the turquoise waters around the island, such as the stellar restaurants in Marawila offered by the likes of Amagi Beach.
Nestled high away in the misty hills of the central highlands, Nuwara Eliya, affectionately monikered Little England, is a city like no other in tropical Sri Lanka. Emerald-green tea fields, dramatic mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, quaint colonial buildings and a soothing climate—the scenic small town is chock full of fascinating wonders that are sure to blow your mind.
Sri Lanka has 22 national parks scattered throughout the country, making it a must to visit at least once on your trip to the island nation. Yala, Udawalawe and Horton Plains national parks are the most visited, but every park is home to a wide variety of animals, making them unique in their own way.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
