Joanna James
As one of Asia's premier holiday hotspots, Sri Lanka offers visitors a plethora of diverse experiences. Here are seven reasons why the island should be on everyone's travel bucket list.
The island's natural heritage is one aspect that comes to mind when it comes to one of the most compelling reasons to visit Sri Lanka. For an island of its size, Sri Lanka is home to a staggering number of national parks which are home to some of the most majestic creatures on the planet. Highlights include the Yala National Park and the Udawalawe National Park where elephant herds roam wild and free. The Minneriya National Park Wasgamuwa National Park and the Horton Plains National Park are equally breathtaking sanctuaries.
It was Lonely Planet that declared Sri Lanka's authentic cuisine among the "Most Underrated" in the world and those who have had the pleasure of wining and dining in the island will know exactly why this is the case. Using an exotic range of spices and coconut milk, Sri Lankan cuisine is vegan and vegetarian-friendly while being delectable to boot. The ready availability of seafood means it is also a paradise for seafood lovers.
The nation's capital is not only the country's most dynamic metropolis but a shopping Mecca for the masses. Home to countless department stores and sky-piercing malls, Colombo's retail scene is not just limited to high-end shopping complexes the likes of the Colombo City Centre, Majestic City and Liberty Plaza as the bargains in Pettah's maze of street markets clearly demonstrate.
Sri Lanka is a land rich in history and a cultural heritage that dates back nearly 2500 years. The ancient capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are home to some of the country's best UNESCO Heritage Sites while the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple are equally impressive cultural landmarks worthy of exploration.
Regarded as one of the most affordable and breathtaking honeymoon destinations in the region, Sri Lanka offers holidaymaker more than just a handful of pristine beaches. The island's south coast beaches are arguably the best in the island with Koggala, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Beruwala providing idyllic beach getaways for day-trippers in the capital and elsewhere.
Whether one is based at one of the 5 star resorts in Sri Lanka the likes of The Eden Resort & Spa Beruwala or any other beach hotel, the chance to experience exciting water sports activities is another privilege those who visit Sri Lanka can enjoy. From surfing, banana boating and scuba diving to snorkelling and windsurfing the choices are endless.
Although one can enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea in most holiday hubs, the joy of sampling tea after a tour of a local tea factory is difficult to describe. Tucked away in the hills, the tea plantations, factories and the fresh taste of a cup of Ceylon tea is a true treat all visitors must experience.
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