Joanna James
Sri Lanka has always been referred to as the paradise island and it provides nothing short of it. Here's a list highlighting some of the best places to visit for a dose of serendipity.
This is a 200m high rock citadel that majestically stands 200m high in the ancient city of Sigiriya. Despite being built in 477 CE, it remains to be an engineering marvel to date. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you marvelled at the view and the centuries-old painting of frescoes that adorn the walls of the fort inside.
Home to the big cats of Sri Lanka, it is here that you would have the glory to spot the Sri Lankan leopards. The National Park is the second-largest one in the country and is situated on the south-eastern coast of the island. About 215 species of birds, including 7 endemic ones along with 44 species of mammals, 47 species of reptiles, call this land their home.
It is a small laid-back town amidst the luscious plantations and a popular tourist hotspot, especially for the hikers. The best way to travel here would be to take the train from Kandy. It is deemed as one of the world's most scenic route. Hike up the Ella Rock for a mesmerizing view of the sunrise and visit the 9-arch bridge to capture the special moment where the train leaves the tunnel with a trail of smoke.
The southern coast of the island is a popular spot for a weekend or quick getaways for both locals and tourists alike due to the easy access from the city of Colombo. Due to this reason, you will find many attractive hotel packages in Sri Lanka to be from the southern suburbs. A must check out accommodation is the Dickwella Resort & Spa, The palm-fringed beaches and the white sandy beaches will lure you into extending your stay here. Indulge in the watersports, yoga classes and mouth-watering fresh seafood dishes.
Another little coastal town in the southern parts of the island, is well known for its colonial charm and cobblestoned roads, brimming with cute niches and cafes. Walk around the Galle Fort, which was first built by the Portuguese in 16th century only for it to be strengthened by the Dutch. The site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique amalgamation of the European architecture with the urbanized South Asian influences.
A perfect place to visit for those interested in history and ancient architecture. It is the second most ancient kingdom of the island and has been declared a World Heritage Site. It was a city established by the Cholas during the 10th century and was ruled by Raja Raja Chola I under whom the city flourished with agriculture and trade. It boasts an irrigation system that is far more advanced than its neighbouring cities. The town is scattered with many ruins of temples, tombs and other archaeological sites of the once known capital kingdom of the country.
Nestled amidst the hill regions of the central province, Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka. The Lankan tradition and culture is very much preserved here and is reflected in the people, the religious festivities and the buildings. The city is also famous for the Dalada Maligawa, known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses the sacred tooth of Lord Buddha.
Located in the Northern Province, an hour away from Jaffna, is this tiny island with an area of 50 square kilometres. It is also known as "Neduntheevu". It is surrounded by shallow waters, coral reefs and palmyrah palms. Explore the island which has 1000-year-old ruins of a temple which was built by the Chola Dynasty.
Yet another southern coastal town is known to throw some great parties and raves. Many tourists and locals flock here during weekends and holiday season to experience the tropical party life. It is also a popular spot for surfers of all levels and skills. A must-visit place for the Instagram users is the coconut tree hill- a unique cliff at the end of the beach filled with palm trees and only a short distance away from the Mirissa Beach. Sunsets viewed from this spot will be nothing short of spectacular. If you are an artist, take a canvas with you and indulge in some therapeutic painting of a sunset that you'll never forget.
The name Pasikudah translates into "green-algae-bay" and is a resort town located in the eastern shores of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country with a view that is postcard-worthy. Do not miss the sunrise here which is bound to leave you in awe/
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