Joanna James
For a country as minuscule as Sri Lanka, the island nation is impressive for the plethora of exciting things to do the nation has to offer. From the picture-postcard beaches in the south to the dramatic mountains in the central highlands, you are sure to find your slice of bliss wherever you go.
In the vicinity of the historical Dambulla city, the heart of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya Rock Fortress — or the Lion Rock, as it is known worldwide — is the island country's world-renowned tourist attraction that draws tourists from around the world. The majestic rock is a gorgeous sight to be admired on the ground alone, but the real treat lies 180 metres high at the top of the rock. Getting to the top isn't exactly easy, where one should climb a good heart-pumping 1,000 steps, but the mind-blowing panoramic views at the top make the climb well worth the effort.
No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without experiencing its wildlife, and while Yala National Park is the most popular choice, it is often crowded. If you are looking for something less touristy with no swarming safari jeeps in the wilderness, Udawalawe National Park is the ideal choice for you. The sprawling national park extends for a whopping 308 square kilometres, where you could expect to spot all kinds of wildlife, but the nature reserve is best known for its incredible population of Sri Lankan wild elephants — the lovely creatures who are the reason that many tourists go on safari.
For those looking forward to getting off the beaten path and immersing themselves in tranquil nature, Brief Garden is as good as it gets. The sprawling 20-acre nature haven in the city of Beruwala is a landscape garden and the former home of Sri Lanka's renowned landscape architect, Bevis Bawa. The meticulously manicured garden is brimming with nature and beauty, inviting you to take a wander through all the tranquillity.
In Kandy — the cultural capital of Sri Lanka — the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the world-renowned tourist attraction that puts the hill country city on the map for most of its tourists. The golden-roofed temple is best known for housing Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist relic — a tooth of the Lord Buddha himself, but there's so much to be seen at the striking Buddhist temple.
For a truly offbeat experience but nothing short of fantastic, make your way to Richmond Castle — a striking Edwardian mansion that dates back to the 1900s boasting striking architectural magnificence. Feast your eyes on all the beauty that surrounds you and retreat to one of the finest resorts in Sri Lanka in the vicinity, offered by popular chains such as Aitken Spence Hotels.
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.
