Joanna James
The most fascinating thing about Sri Lanka is how versatile the small island is in terms of tourism. Whether you are looking to immerse in the culture, history, natural beauty or a luxurious getaway the country has it all. Here are some places you should definitely visit for a comprehensive holiday.
When you first arrive in Sri Lanka head out to the Cultural Triangle. This is where you will get a comprehensive view of the history that colours every aspect of the Sri Lankan identity and there's no better place to start than at the Dambulla Caves. You will need to make somewhat of a steep climb to the very top of the rocky outcrop in order to enter the caves. Each of the caves has a dedicated temple and was built by a different king. The style of paintings and frescos within the caves will give you a quick summary of Buddhism in Sri Lanka as well as an art history lesson if you have the eye for that sort of thing.
One of the engineering feats of the 5th century, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is made up of the ruins of what was once the palace of Kashyapa I, the king who seized the throne after he murdered his father. There's a tragic story behind the fortress which was built so it would be impenetrable, and it was until it fell to ruin. Make sure you learn some history of Sigiriya before you visit so you have a better understanding of what it is you are seeing.
It's not just culture that you can enjoy up in the Cultural Triangle. Minneriya is home to wild elephants and a safari would be your best bet of spotting the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Elephants are an important part of Sri Lanka's heritage, but due to exploitation especially in direct relation to tourism so always make sure that you are engaging in sustainable tourism. It is always much more magical to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Head up to highlands of the country where the weather is cold and rainy, and the mountains are swathed in emerald tea plantations. Nuwara Eliya was the centre of the British colonial presence when Ceylon Black Tea was the elixir of the new world. The colonial fever remains in the architecture and general feel of the small hill country city.
Before you finish off your trip to Sri Lanka, make sure you spend a couple of days at a luxury hotel in Colombo. Most tourists tend to avoid Colombo believing it to be nothing but a dusty bustling metropolis, but Colombo has its own unique charm that is both modern and historical at the same time. It is a melting pot of Sri Lanka's distinct ethnicities and a couple of days in the city at a hotel the likes of Mandarina Colombo Hotel will allow you to explore a side of Sri Lanka you wouldn't find elsewhere.
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 pas...
