05 Major Attractions in Sri Lanka – Pearl of the Indian Ocean

Oozing with loads of colonial charm the Galle Fort built by the Dutch is testimonial to Sri Lanka's colonial times. Beautiful old Dutch villas are circled by cobblestone streets, ramparts looking out to the azure blue ocean and a maze of alleys. The marine museum has some interesting artefacts on display; although all the items there may not be directly linked to the fort or Sri Lanka they are quite fascinating and tell stories of man and sea. Walk around and you can stop at one of the lovely little cafes for some tea and scones or a fuller meal at the bigger restaurants. The ramparts are favoured by both locals and tourists for walking and taking in the scenes while ice cream sellers and a general happy vibe adds a holiday ambiance to the whole place; lulled by the sound of the ocean.

The gorgeous hill capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy; is a must visit place and definitely on the list of all good Sri Lanka holiday tours. Location of the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka; Kandy has many ancient buildings, temples and historical sites to visit. The Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site that is home to the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Come August the city lights up in a myriad of colours to celebrate the elaborate Dalada Perahera-Festival. A magnificent procession that includes regally kitted up elephants – the central figure is the tusker that carries the precious tooth relic through the crowded streets. During this procession you can witness the famous Kandyan dancers, dressed in their elegant costumes. Watch as the dancers move and sway to the rhythm of drums. Kandy is also a romantic city with a salubrious climate located within the central hill country of Sri Lanka.

The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage in Kurunegala is a must visit for elephant lovers of all ages. The world's largest collection of 'captive' elephants are housed at this orphanage – ranging across all ages. Make it there in time for the feeding of the baby elephants and you could lend a hand. There are also times when the herds are driven across the road to the river for their daily baths. Take along the cameras folks for this is quite a show and a marvellous treat. As you can see, Sri Lanka is a gorgeous land of many treats, in order to make the most of your holiday here make sure to hook up with the best travel agent. Choose a reputed travel company with years of experience and excellent travel guides on board. Jetwing Travels operates in Sri Lanka.

Polonnaruwa belongs to Sri Lanka's cultural triangle. It is the second oldest city established by the ancient kings of Sri Lanka. It was the country's capital from the 11th to the 13th century. There are many ancient relics in Polonnaruwa that are must visits for all culture buffs; these are The Quadrangle – Dalada Maluwa, this was the original home of the tooth relic and holds within its folds a band of religious buildings. The Vatadage is the centrepiece and is probably the most decorative building in the country. The Gal Viharaya is another site to visit for beautiful rock art; the central figure there is the 464ft reclining Buddha carved out of a single piece of granite. The Lankatilaka is housed within a 55ft house within which a headless Buddha Statue stands compressed in the small area. There are images of houses believed to be those of higher deities inscribed within the premises there.

The world's largest collection of leopards are found at the Yala National Park; the country's most popular wildlife reserve. The dry savannah like environs of Yala, are ideal for setting off on early morning safaris in an open top jeep. Take along the binoculars for the park is home to a huge range of wild life including, elephants, monkeys, peacocks, crocodiles, black bears, a huge variety of birds, reptiles, amphibians and much more; also the environs dotted with gorgeous salt water mixed lagoons, virgin forests and marshes promises to soothe the mind.