Joanna James
Sri Lanka is fast becoming the favourite tropical destination for the curious traveller. There are many reasons for this, the following being some of the best-known reasons for a visit to the island.
The public transport system in Sri Lanka is an interesting blend of colonial heritage and modern technology. The one place where the British influence is almost intact is the railway system of Sri Lanka. Still running on the tracks built by the British many decades ago, the train journey to the hill country – Badulla/Ella area – is one of the most picturesque routes you will encounter in your life. As the open trains crawl around the mountainsides, a light mist rolls in over the tea estates and obscures your view of the faraway hills.
If you flip open a history book on Sri Lanka, you will realize that the country had waves of Kingdoms, shifting all across the island. Some of the better known ancient kingdoms are those of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Although in ruins today, there is enough left to catch a glimpse of the wonders of the times begone. In addition to the ruins of castles with their own cooling systems and summer gardens, there are also plenty of temples to be visited here.
Being an island, the ocean is an integral part of many things to do in Sri Lanka. While the best beaches are up to debate, most popular beaches are found along the southern coast of the country, from Tangalle to Matara. The popularity of the area among visitors is expanded by the hotels in Tangalle, well-known names such as Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort increasing the popularity. After all, there is much to be said about being able to retreat to a luxury abode for the night after swimming in the ocean and taking a stroll down warm and golden sand.
In addition to the many cultural wonders and scenic beauty, Sri Lanka is also home to an interesting wildlife. Elephants and leopards the most sought after among the many creatures of the wild, the former being extremely easy to spot, and the latter rather elusive. There are several wildlife parks in Sri Lanka such as Udawalawa National Park, Yala National Park, Bundala National Park, and Minneriya National Park. You are likely to see at least ten elephants on your safari, in addition to other animals such as peacocks, wild boar, deer, and even bears.
If you want to physically exert yourself, you can always climb one of the many rocks and mountains in Sri Lanka. You could opt to climb Sigiriya, the rock fortress of a traitorous King; a place of astounding architectural skill, it is more of a palace of pleasure than a hideaway or a fortress. Alternatively, you can trek your way up the mountains and rocks that are scattered throughout the island and call it an adventure.
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