Joanna James
The island of Sri Lanka boasts of wonders from all corners. Here are 7 things that would complete your vacation in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is a haven for all watersport lovers. The beaches in the southern end of the island are crowded with surfers, both experienced and amateurs. Starting from Bentota, work your way to other beaches such as Mirissa, Tangalle, Passikudah, and Arugam Bay. You can surf, scuba dive, ride jet skis and try out many other sports in these beaches. Kithulgala gives you a different kind of experience- white water rafting which is something you shouldn't miss.
For those who are interested in hiking, make a trip to the hilly area of the island through Haputale, Diyathalawa, and Ella. Breathtaking vistas and waterfalls, rivers and tea estates welcome all hikers to the area. The most visited places are Little Adams Peak, Horton Plains and other mountain ranges such as Piduruthalagala. While you're on the hike, stop at one of the hut-restaurants and taste a warm roti with a refreshing cup of Ceylon tea.
Colombo is the heart of Sri Lanka. You find the best of both worlds in the city amongst many a Colombo city hotel, Colombo the likes of The Kingsbury Colombo and street food stalls serving some of the best food you'll find in the city.
The remnants and ruins found in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa shape the history of Sri Lanka. These towns were flourishing cities some 2000 years ago. You will find ancient palaces of the kings, religious monuments such as stupas, statues and temples are abundant in these areas. Large stone statues of the kings and other members of the monarchy, culturally significant monuments such as the Moonstone can be seen here. Both these towns are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
There are wildlife parks spread across the island from the Northern corner to the Southern. The Yala National Park is the most prominent park among many. This park has the highest leopard concentration in the world. The Minneriya National Park is significant for the elephant gathering where more than 300 wild elephants gather during August every year. Kumana National Park is known for the birds and is a great place for bird photography.
The most scenic train ride the island can offer you is the 10-hour ride to Badulla from Colombo. The train goes through 56 tunnels while passing large waterfalls, cliffs, and rivers. Another train ride you shouldn't miss is from Kandy to Ella. To get the best of your train ride, book seats in the second class coach. You can experience the train rides just as the locals do.
Visit one of the tea estates in the hill country and go on a tour with one of the guides provided by the estates. You will be mesmerized by the beauty of the views and the tour will be perfect with a cup of Ceylon tea and a homemade slice of cake.
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