Joanna James
For a country as small as Sri Lanka, the island nation is unbelievably rich in variety and offers its many visitors not only a wealth of diversity but also oodles of extraordinary experiences, incomparable by any other. Come, experience the out-of-the-ordinary in the exciting teardrop island.
Hikes are nothing out of the ordinary and make a mainstream activity on almost every holiday, but the climb up this 180-metre rock is anything but mainstream. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, better known as Lion Rock outside the South Asian island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and what is considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world — a status the renowned tourist attraction well and truly deserves for the wonder and fascination is beyond mind-blowing. Trek your way up the 1,000 steps, where summiteers are greeted by breathtaking panoramic views.
The crown jewel of the island’s cultural capital, Kandy City, the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha himself, housed at the eponymous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, tour the streets of Kandy City in an annual grand procession to pay homage to what is decidedly the most precious relic for all Buddhists around the world. The colour, glamour and splendour of the procession are out of this world, drawing both locals and tourists in droves, where the host of dressed-up elephants grab the spotlight.
For those avid adventurers craving for a hike in the classic sense, the trek to Adam’s Peak won’t disappoint. Once thought to be the Garden of Eden, Adam’s Peak lies 2,243 metres high on a conical mountain. While the adventure is undoubtedly exhilarating, to say the least, it is not exactly adventure that puts Adam’s Peak on the map but the historical and religious significance associated with the holy footprint that lies at the summit claimed to belong to Adam, Buddha and Shiva.
The landscape garden and former home of renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa is heaven on earth for all nature lovers, where oodles of nature and beauty await your arrival. Take a stroll through the luscious masterpiece and let both your feet and mind take a wander in boundless tranquillity and serenity afforded by the lush greenery.
In the historical city of Anuradhapura, rich with scores of old-world Buddhist sites and relics, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi takes centre stage. The sacred tree that dates back to the times of the Lord Buddha is one of the oldest human-planted trees in the world and boasts massive religious significance. Pay your respects to the revered Buddhist relic and retreat to one of the finest resorts in Sri Lanka offered by the likes of 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.
