Joanna James
Sri Lanka is a land of wonder offering a myriad of experiences each time you visit. Still not convinced? Here are just five reasons (there are much more too!) why you should plan a holiday to this island paradise.
The history of Sri Lanka is rich indeed and be it during the time of kings or colonial rule, much of the island's heritage is linked with its culture. When it comes to historic attractions, the Cultural Triangle area is ideal to explore since you can visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Along the south coast, Galle's Old Town and Dutch Fort are magnificent sights indeed, while Kandy with its Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic provides insights into the country's Buddhist heritage.
Of course, if you want to spend your days lazing on soft sand, swimming in the ocean or taking part in action-packed water sports, Sri Lanka has got you covered too! Bentota and Hikkaduwa both have idyllic stretches of beach on the south coast for sunbathing and water sports, while the latter is known for its happening nightlife scene too. On the other side of the island, along the east coast, you will find the Pasikudah, Kalkudah and Marble beaches that offer relative seclusion and stunning sunrise vistas too. Over on the west coast, Negombo Beach is particularly popular and a prime place to witness glorious sunsets.
Sri Lanka is also rich in biodiversity which can be experienced on visits to places such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and the Yala National Park. Travellers who stay at a Sinharaja eco lodge Sri Lanka has to offer at the peripheries of this sanctuary including the likes of The Rainforest Ecolodge – Sinharaja can look forward to witnessing endemic flora and fauna; these include indigenous trees, plants, birds and more. On the other hand, safaris at Yala and other national parks will give one a chance to spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, water buffaloes, sloth bears and toque macaques to name a few.
Those looking for some adrenaline-pumping action as well as the highs of outdoor adventure have much to look forward to as well. Trek to the summit of Adam's Peak, go white water rafting in Kitulgala, enjoy mountain bike excursions, surf the waves, zip-line in the mountains and camp amidst cloud forests at the Knuckles Mountain Range. Such activities provide an ideal way to appreciate the island's spellbinding natural beauty as well.
The hill country of Sri Lanka is characterised by breathtaking mountain ranges where you can experience cooler climes and plenty of outdoor exploration too. The hill capital, Kandy, is easy to reach from the commercial capital Colombo and is home to ancient temples (including one that houses a Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha) and is the site of the famed, Esala Perahera (an annual parade). Heading further up, one will come to Nuwara Eliya which has a distinctive English countryside feel to it along with lots of tea estates. Also popular is Ella, a laid-back mountain town where you can spend your days trekking and visiting a number of idyllic waterfalls.
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.
