Joanna James
Sri Lanka is one of those countries you will never get tired of! The sheer diversity of attractions from beaches to temples will keep you coming back for more. Here are five things that should be on your to-do list while in Lanka.
Sri Lanka is surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean and has some incredibly beautiful beaches in every direction. On the southern coast, the seaside towns of Galle, Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Dickwella, Mirissa, Tangalle and Matara are some of the liveliest on the island. The beachside vibe is perfect for those who want to socialise and mingle with other travellers. Surfing and snorkelling are popular in these areas, with plenty of top beachside restaurants, cafes, hotels and hostels. If you head to the east coast, Arugambay, Passikudha, Kalkudah, Trincomalee, Marble Beach and Pigeon Island will enchant you with their beautiful beaches, which are great for snorkelling. Delve into uncharted and pristine beach territory by heading northwards towards Jaffna to beaches like Kankesanthurai, Casuarina and Charty Beach for adventure and exploration. For more recommendations check out websites like Truly Sri Lanka to enhance your beach experience.
Sri Lanka has a recorded history of over 2600 years across seven kingdoms. Thus, the island is dotted with many archaeological treasures. If you travel to Sri Lanka, don't miss Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, which are considered some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. These towns were where the ancient Sinhalese Kingdoms first started. Encounter massive stupas, vast irrigation tanks, monasteries, swimming ponds, palaces, and incredible Buddhist art and architecture.
Sri Lanka has an incredible wildlife diversity, and multiple National Parks allow you to witness all this and more. Some of the famous names are Udawalawe, Yala, Willpattu, Kaudulla, Gal Oya, Minneriya, Wasgamuwa, Bundala, Kumana Bird Sanctuary, and Horton Plains National Park. You can expect to see endemic animals like the Sri Lankan elephant, spotted dear, Sri Lankan leopard, water buffalo, Sri Lankan sloth bear, Red Slender Loris, Purple-Faced Langur, Sri Lankan jungle fowl, and an array of birds and reptiles. Always ensure your travel guides and safari vehicles respect the natural surroundings and abstain from speeding or getting too close to wild animals.
Sri Lankans eat with their right hands. Not only is this the norm, but it is also the best way to savor all the delicious flavors Sri Lankan food is famous for. Mixing the food with your hand boosts the flavor, especially for a typical meal like rice and curry.
In Sri Lanka, most people will consume food with their hands for all three meals, save for some dishes like kottu, fried rice, and noodle dishes where utensils are commonplace. It is very important to stick to the right hand, or you might end up with a few curious looks. The rice gets mixed with all the curries, made into little morsels, and popped into the mouth. Make sure the food only touches your fingertips and not your palm. It will take some practice, but it is the only real way to enjoy a meal in Sri Lanka.
If you thought Sri Lanka was hot and humid all year around, think again. The central province mountain ranges provide a cool respite for those who want a break from the heat. Not only is the weather mild, but you will encounter some of the most beautiful sights in all of Sri Lanka. Filled with verdant tea plantations, misty green mountains, lush jungles, and waterfalls, the hillside stations are a nature lover's dream. Nuwara Eliya, Haputale, Hatton, Badulla and Ella are some of the best towns to escape to embrace the cold mountainous landscape.
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.
