Joanna James
Sri Lanka has been listed as one of the world's top holiday destinations. It's a tropical island of bio-diverse environs and gorgeous beaches framed by the warm Indian Ocean. While reasons for visiting this paradise-isle are many, here are just 5 reasons to visit Sri Lanka!
In Sri Lanka, it's summer all year round. There are only two seasons affecting the island: the wet and dry season. The wet season is when the monsoonal rains hit either the south-west or north-east of the island. Thus, it's always sunny in one corner of the island. The south-west monsoon hits around May and July while October and January herald the north-east monsoon. Therefore, you can either chill on the gorgeous southern beaches or whale watch and scuba dive in the east. It's always sunny in Sri Lanka! And you will find the best hotels in Sri Lanka scattered across the island. So, you may enjoy beach stays, cultural experiences, or misty mountain escapades. Check out established hotel chains like Araliya Hotels & Resorts for the best accommodation in Sri Lanka.
Exotic flavours and tropical ingredients create the perfect blend of dishes in Sri Lanka. The seafood is, of course, amazing and you get to savour the ocean's best from lobster and crabs to prawns and the freshest fish. Best of all, Sri Lanka retains its traditional way of cooking by blending tropical spices and herbs to create magical flavours. Plus, there are plenty of traditional dishes too, from sweetmeats to savouries you simply must try. Do include the following in your must-try list of Sri Lankan cuisine. Rice and curry (the staple), string-hoppers with kiri hodi, crispy hoppers, kiribath, and, of course, the curries. From white potato curry to traditional spicy chicken, fish and pork curries the varieties are many.
Part of Sri Lanka's magic is its bio-diverse environs. And you can go from chilling on a beach to cosying up to a fireplace in a matter of 4 hours. There is also the dry zone, beautiful scrub jungles, which are rustic havens. In these environs dwell exotic wildlife. And a visit to the Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Minneriya National Park etc. on a jeep safari will treat you to sights of wild elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, sambar, and a huge variety of birds amongst many more. Safari tours to national parks can be booked via your hotel in Sri Lanka.
The island can easily boast some of the world's best beaches and gorgeous sandy banks on which you can laze around and work on your tan. You will also come across warm waters to swim in and plenty of coral reefs and interesting wrecks and marine life to explore on a scuba diving or snorkelling tour. The beaches in the south are the most popular and you can try every type of water sport there. The eastern coast is beautiful, laidback, and rich in history. Hotels in Unawatuna are extremely popular, for the beaches are huge and the water is crystal clear. Plus, you can explore the historical city of Galle, which is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the 16th century Old Dutch Fort.
Kalpitiya in the north-west of Sri Lanka is famous for its pods of dolphins, while Mirissa in the south is noted for whales and dolphins. Trincomalee in the east is home to one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours. And you can go whale watching here as this area is a playground for over 20 species of these huge mammals. Check for whale and dolphin watching seasons depending on which part of Sri Lanka you will be visiting.
Add to all this the traditions and culture you experience along the way. Quaint villages, smiling locals and a whole new way of life!
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.
