Joanna James
For a country that's known as the "teardrop island" for its tiny size, Sri Lanka presents a mind-blowing variety to keep its visitors hooked. From the stunning beaches down south to the dramatic misty mountains on the central highlands, this tiny island nation is sure to leave you amazed.
A UNESCO World Heritage site and an important historical landmark in Sri Lanka, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress draws tourists in droves almost every day to admire its awe-inspiring beauty. The trek involving 1,000 or so steps up the 180-metre-high rock will certainly be far from a breeze, but the breathtaking views afforded at the top make the effort totally worth it.
Sitting right in the heart of the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is the most important religious site for local Buddhists and a magnetic tourist attraction that put Sri Lanka on the map for countless travellers around the world. Join the white-clad devotees and make your way to the golden-roofed house to pay your respects to the sacred tooth relic that rests in a golden casket.
Venture off to the hill country station of Nuwara Eliya, a quaint old city like no other, where the British Colonial charm still lives just as in its glory days. Find yourself in the middle of an emerald-green tea field, hike to the top of a misty mountain or explore a scenic waterfall or two.
No trip to Sri Lanka would ever be complete without at least one beach town on your itinerary, and with a lovely seascape and welcoming waters that let you walk into the sea for about 100 metres without a wave hitting you down, Passikudah is an obvious choice. Beach bums and sun lovers yearning to stay only a stone's throw away from their slice of paradise can indulge in the same, thanks to beachfront hotels like Amethyst Resort Passikudah.
Tucked away in secrecy amidst lush tea fields and a dense forest, the Nine Arch Bridge in the quaint town of Ella sees a good number of tourists every week who come to admire its architectural brilliance. The classical stone bridge also makes for a stunning backdrop to capture some drool-worthy pics for your 'gram. So, snap a pic, explore other magnificent glories of Ella and retreat to one of the finest Bandarawela hotels and call it a day.
Considered to be the most breathtaking train ride not just in Sri Lanka but also in the whole wide world, the 7-hour train ride from Ella to Kandy takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in the hill country. Hop in one of the blue train cars and treat yourself to a journey through paradise.
Make your way to the southwestern beach town of Hikkaduwa, where a myriad of water sports await you on its golden shores. From adrenaline-pumping surfing and jet skiing to low-key snorkelling and sea kayaking, everyone is bound to find their slice of bliss in the alluring waters.
Covering a whopping 980 square kilometres inland from the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is home to a diverse species of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, bears, oodles of birdlife and the most popular Sri Lankan leopard. Hop in a sick safari jeep and explore the wilderness to spot your favourite animals.
As a country that's home to authentic local cuisine like no other, it would be a pity not to taste a traditional dish or two on your trip to Sri Lanka. Join the locals and feast on a mouthwatering assortment with your hands.
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.
