Joanna James
Scenic beaches, majestic elephants, ubiquitous waterfalls, and misty mountains hold an allure to all visitors to Sri Lanka whilst the cultural diversity, places of historical value and ancient architecture attract the curious traveller to explore more of the treasures that abound on the island.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the north of the island had been the capital of ancient Sri Lanka and a planned city from the 5tth century BC. Ruins of enormous palaces, parks, bathing ponds and reservoirs lie along with ruins of Buddhist shrines and the revered sacred Bo tree worshipped by the Buddhists. The man-made creations depict the skilled architectural and engineering superiority of ancient Sri Lankan civilization, thus being listed as a Heritage Site. A visit to Anuradhapura is often at the top of things to do in Sri Lanka for many visitors.
Nestled on the bay of Galle, in the southwest of Sri Lanka, this Fort was built by the Portuguese and then further fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. A UNESCO World Heritage site which is entirely walled and can be fully explored by foot or by bicycle with ease. The cobbled streets and narrow buildings take you back in time. Enjoy a morning out or a leisurely afternoon here, refresh yourselves at the many restaurants, relish homemade ice cream and walk on the ramparts for a glorious view of the ocean as often enjoyed by visitors from Browns Hotels & Resorts.
Situated in the southern part of the island, this huge wildlife park is a haven of flora and fauna to be savoured. Uniquely bordering both dry and wet zones of the island the terrain varies as you explore within. Famed for spotting large herds of elephants, this park is also endowed with deer, crocodiles, monkeys, leopards, water buffaloes and more in addition to an array of birds. Plan to do a day tour to witness and admire the wildlife at this park.
This much-revered temple in the Hill Capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy attracts devotees as well as visitors throughout the year. It is not only to view the inner chamber at which the tooth relic of Lord Buddha is ensconced but also to explore this well-maintained ancient temple complex with intricate carvings and statues as well as the museums. Early morning and around dusk are good times to visit this temple.
Known as the Little Niagara of Sri Lanka this wide shimmering curtain of water entices those passing by with a tremendous drop from 80 metres. The backdrop of misty green hills and acres of tea estates adds to the enchantment of the waterfall. Use the lookout point just off the road for a better view and for capturing unforgettable memories.
This much-visited temple in the heart of Colombo is an oasis of serenity amid the hustle and bustle of city life. Located near the Beira Lake this iconic temple boasts a museum holding many artefacts and other items of religious value and cultural or historical importance. The assembly hall of the temple sits serenely on the waters of Beira Lake drawing visitors to explore it.
This rock fortress created by King Kashyapa of ancient Sri Lanka is located in the heart of the island on a giant rocky plateau nearly 400 metres above sea level and nearly 200 metres higher than the lush jungles providing a backdrop to it. Whilst the view from the top is breathtaking, what baffles most visitors is the ingenuity and skills of the locals of that era to create the network of fortifications, gardens and ponds etc to blend with nature although what remains now are remnants of a former palace of glory.
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.
