Joanna James
With its diverse landscapes, culture and cuisine, the island of Sri Lanka offers a multitude of captivating things to do and see. Here are 10 quintessential experiences you should try.
Sun, sand and surf galore await those heading to the shores of Sri Lanka. The beaches here are your typical slices of paradise with soft sand, palm fringed shores and an unending horizon of the mighty Indian Ocean. Plenty of hotels in Sri Lanka can be found right along these beaches and are ideal for a fun family getaway or a romantic escape.
Foodies can sample some of the island's famous street food which is packed with flavour and spices too! "Isso wade" a prawn based deep fried snack is a popular choice as is "kottu roti" which involves slicing and dicing godhamba roti and tempering it with meats, eggs and vegetables. Hoppers which is a kind of thin, crispy pancake like creation shaped much like a bowl is also a must try.
The national parks in Sri Lanka are home to some truly exotic wildlife and taking a safari gives you a chance to see these animals in their natural habitats. Be it leopards at Yala or witnessing the amazing gathering of hundreds of elephants in Minneriya, these safaris are full of adventure, to say the least!
Sri Lanka has a rich heritage when it comes to Ayurveda and this form of holistic healing offers true rejuvenation for mind, body and spirit. Jetwing Hotels is amongst the accommodation providers that offer such treatments at its properties and give you a chance to enjoy a wellness experience like no other.
A mighty rock fortress towering over the landscape, awe-inspiring Sigiriya is a site steeped in history. Make the ascent to the summit of this UNESCO World Heritage Site witnessing the grandeur of an ancient kingdom and such attractions as the Sigiriya maidens, ancient frescoes painted onto the rock.
The hill country of Sri Lanka is famed for its tea plantations amidst the mountain slopes. Explore one of these plantations or take a tour and witness the intricate art of plucking tea and learn about how the world famous Ceylon Tea is made.
Adrenaline junkies can take to the rapids of Kitulgala in Sri Lanka and look forward to a thrill-a-second ride as part of a white water rafting adventure. Confidence jumps from relatively high rocks into natural pools and waterfall abseiling can also be tried in this part of the island.
If you love spending time outdoors, then you will love camping at the breathtaking Knuckles Mountain Range. Shrouded in mist and home to diverse flora and fauna, this enchanting mountain range with its cloud forests offers an unforgettable camping experience.
Held annually in July / August, the Esala Perahera is a famous procession and festival that takes place in the hill country capital of Kandy. Centred around the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the procession features elephants dressed in ceremonial garb, fire jugglers, drummers, dancers and more!
Sri Lankans love their cricket! If you haven't witnessed the frenzy of cricket mad supporter cheering their team while all around bands keep playing then make sure to watch a game live. Note: look to watch either a One Day International or a T20 match which are shorter formats of the five day version.
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.
