Joanna James
Sri Lanka might be a relatively small island, but it sure packs a punch when it comes to offering diverse adventures and activities! Here are just five amazing things you should plan to do here on a holiday.
The Yala National Park is one of the most (if not the most!) visited wildlife park in Sri Lanka for one very good reason; it is said to have the highest density of leopards on the planet! A special leopard safari here gives you a chance to witness the majestic beauty of these predators in their natural habitat and if you're lucky, you may even see young cubs. The best times for leopard spotting are generally early morning and in the evening since they will look to avoid the burning sun, while June to September is usually the best period.
No trip to the island is complete without exploring its lovely beaches. These pristine stretches of shore can be found around the island, each one having something different to offer. Sri Lanka tours that take you to the south coast will usually include visits to some of the region's popular beaches be it at Beruwala, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna or Tangalle. Negombo Beach in the west coast has become quite a coastal hotspot too offering water sports and eclectic dining options. Heading east will bring you to the beaches of Kalkudah and Pasikudah that are great spots for swimming and catching a magical sunrise. Also on the east coast, Arugam Bay not only has a beach stretch but is great for surfing too.
One of the key attractions in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, the towering Sigiriya Rock Fortress is considered by some as being the "Eighth Wonder of the World". Reaching a height of around 660 feet, this immense fortress has to be seen to fully appreciate the ingenious engineering feet required to have constructed it. Local travel specialists the likes of Connaissance de Ceylan offer tours to this iconic attraction which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site too. On your ascent, you will come across ancient frescoes on the rock known as the "Sigiriya Maidens". Of course, the true wonder awaits at the summit; apart from the ruins of the palace that once stood here you will witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungles.
The hill country of Sri Lanka is not only home to mist-shrouded mountains, but also enchanting tea plantations along the slopes. Exploring some of these plantations makes for a great outdoor adventure and you may even get to see local tea pluckers engaged in the intricate art of plucking the right leaves. Combine this excursion with a tour of a tea factory and learn of how the world famous Ceylon Tea is produced.
At a height of approximately 220 metres, Diyaluma Falls is the country's second highest waterfall. Plan the hike to the summit of this waterfall where you will not only find stunning views but a series of pools as well. These pools offer perfect spots to enjoy a cool bath after your hike, surrounded by nature's tranquillity.
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.
