Joanna James
Battered by a long civil war that was victoriously overcome in 2009, Sri Lanka has slowly but steadily ascended the ladder of the hospitality industry in South Asia. A tiny island that is encompassed by a beautiful blue ocean, it offers spectacular locations that enthrall tourists across the globe.
A paradise of its own, Nilaveli has beaches that provide a gateway for the clear blue waters that lights up by the bright sun rays of the day. Situated in the East Coast of Sri Lanka approximately 16 kilometres from Trincomalee, this quaint town features miles of white-sand beaches that would hypnotise you. The pretty skylines that subtlely contrast with the horizon exude a serene ambience that would make you want to move here. Apart from the scintillating beauty of the beaches, the main attraction of Nilaveli is Pigeon Island. Although it may look like one island from the beach, there are two islands, with one being larger than the other. A trip to this island offers marvellous snorkelling and diving opportunities that would offer a feast to your eyes with vibrant reef fish that circle the colourful corals.
If you're visiting Sri Lanka in July, make sure you pay a visit to Kataragama as you'd get to witness the Kataragama Grand Perahera, an iconic procession in the south of the country. The Kataragama shrine is dedicated to God Skanda, who is believed to have miraculous powers to cure illness and many other divine abilities. A significant place of worship in Sri Lanka, Kataragama is famed for three annual events, out of which the Kataragama Esala Festival is best known for its "Perahera," or the festive procession that is held in a grand scale. It is rich in rituals, traditions, and vibrant colours that are reflected in the clothing of the main shrine's custodians, the drapings of the elephants, and the costumes of the dancers. You would also be able to witness the many customs associated with this festival, such as devotees bathing in the Menik Ganga for purification purposes and offering fruits and other offerings to the deity at the shrine complex.
The southernmost coastal area of the East Coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is ranked as one of the best-surfing destinations in the world. Many international surfing competitions are held at this place each year. With the number of surf shops outnumbering the guesthouses and resorts of this area, Arugam Bay is possibly the only place in the country where amateurs and beginners can take up surfing at the same location, with different wave spots classified according to their needed expertise. Arugam Bay is not only a hotspot for surfing, but it also lies close to places that would delight wildlife enthusiasts. If you need to come across a majestic herd of elephants, opt for a safari at the Lahugala National Park. The Kumana Bird Sanctuary poses as the ultimate bird watchers' paradise.
Emanating the aura of its colonial times, Colombo showcases the influence of many cultures from its constructions like Anglican and Catholic churches, the Islamic mosques, and the Dutch colonial-style architecture. Colombo also boasts of Galle Face Green, the largest open-air stretch of the city that offers magnificent views of the sunset. The Gangaramaya Temple and monastery is spread around the Beira Lake. This iconic place in Colombo lies adjacent to many hotels in Colombo, such as residences offered by popular chains like Uga Escapes. It is a must-visit site for its imposing buildings with displays that show off a myriad of Buddhist artefacts from across the globe.
Reachable in about two and a half hours from the Colombo, via the Southern Expressway, Mirissa is the ideal beach getaway for those who seek a bit of solace and laidback time. Unlike Unawatuna or Hikkaduwa beaches, which seem to always bustle with crowds, the Mirissa beach will offer you those serene moments that are hard to come by these days. With suitable places for dining and accommodation, you can also arrange snorkelling and whale watching trips when you're holidaying at this oasis of tranquility.
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