Joanna James
From scenic beaches to lush greenery to historically rich landmarks, Sri Lanka is a country that has plenty to offer. Here are 5 of the most beautiful spots in Sri Lanka that you should visit.
Occupying an area of 970 square kilometres and located in the South Eastern district of Sri Lanka, the Yala national park is a wildlife sanctuary that lets its visitors observe animals such as elephants, Leopards, Sri Lankan Sloth bears in their natural environment. Scattered around the park are the ruins left behind by early civilizations that lived in the area. Yala is also an Important Bird Area (IBA) that is home to 7 endemic bird species such as Sri Lanka wood pigeon, Sri Lanka grey hornbill and Sri Lanka junglefowl and many migrating bird species.
Adam's peak is a mountain which is perfect for an early morning hike. Adam's Peak has a great spiritual value for many religions in Sri Lanka because of a large footprint located at the summit of the mountain. While Christians believe that footprint belongs to Adam as he was cast out Eden Gardens, Buddhist believe it was left behind by Lord Buddha. You have to be at the summit when the sun rises as you'll get to see a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding area as the sun dawns on the horizon.
Being a tropical island, Sri Lanka is blessed with many beautiful beaches, each of which offers a unique experience. The coastal city of Bentota is one of the country's main beach destinations which attract both local and foreign tourists alike. It also offers a variety of activities and experiences while also being a place to explore some of the other popular beach cities in the area such as Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Mirissa. Bentota resorts and hotels the likes of AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa offer its visitors the chance to engage in beach sports such as surfing, jet skiing and boat rides which are guaranteed to delight visitors of all ages. Bentota is a great place to treat yourself to a luxurious spa's that will relax their body, mind and soul.
The culturally rich city of Kandy, which is known as the hill capital of Sri Lanka is home to one of the country's most valuable religious artefacts: the sacred tooth relic; One of Lord Buddha's teeth. Taken from the remains of Lord Buddha's cremation, the tooth was brought from India to Sri Lanka during 4 AD and currently resides in the Sacred Tooth Relic temple which is known to the local devotees as the Dalada Maligawa. The best time to visit Kandy is during August when the Kandy Esala Perahara happens: A religious procession which consists of fire dancers, elephants and eastern dancers to celebrate Lord Buddha attaining enlightenment.
The rock fortress of Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka's most visited tourist attractions that has been referred to by some as the 8th wonder of the world. Built by King Kasyapa over 1600 years ago, Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that one of the oldest examples of urban planning and is also home to beautiful frescoes drawn by highly skilled artists during the time the fortress was built. The best time to visit Sigiriya is either at dawn or during the afternoon when you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
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.
