Bags packed, shades on and swimming gear at hand! If you have planned a trip to sunny Sri Lanka here are some tips on how to make your trip to this little country even more exciting. First time travelers will probably find it easier with a travel guide book to plan your itinerary depending on what interests you most.
Sri Lanka is a tropical island nestled in aqua waters and is fondly known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. If you like taking a walk along the beautiful sun kissed beaches with the waves at your feet, this island will be a perfect destination for a lovely beach holiday. You will have a choice of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that are beautiful and relaxing, located all around the country. Adventure water sports, turtle hatcheries and whale watching are some exciting activities you can add to the ‘to do’ list of your perfect summer holiday.
The Hill country with its cool weather set against salubrious climes, is a world away from the rest of Sri Lanka. The lush mountains rising from the rich landscapes are truly beautiful for capturing special moments. From these mountains gush forth spectacular water falls that plunge with ceaseless beauty into the valleys below. The cool climate and spring like weather throughout the year has made the hill country a favorite retreat for many holiday goers and tourist. It is this sheer magnificence of these astounding landscapes that makes Sri Lanka the number one travel destination for holiday makers around the world.
Blessed with many wonders that nature can offer, Sri Lanka makes for a ‘post card’ oceanfront setting with its majestic coconut palms, lush greenery and golden sands. What makes this place so unique is the experience of a contrasting warm and cool climate within hours of a picturesque drive.
Sri Lanka’s main city Colombo, is a busy urban location with houses, apartments, malls and offices. Highly populated with a busy workforce this is perhaps the most crowded area in the country, especially during drive time. Colombo has many attractions and is ideal for an experience of the urbanized modern lifestyle. From hotels and restaurants that serve a variety of fancy meals to cafes and street food that give you a true flavor of authentic local cuisine, you will do doubt find some sugar and spice to tempt your palette! For shopping you may opt for malls with signature brands or choose from the many retail shops that sell a variety of items.
If you fancy some sun sand and water, head down-south to the beach stretch, lined with many hotels, from luxury villas to budget inns. Along the way you could stop by at a turtle hatchery to learn how the eggs are preserved and turtles are released to the sea in their early days. If you are feeling adventurous there are many water sports to dive into.
To enjoy some cool down time, head over to the salubrious climes of the hill country. The capital city Kandy is a heritage city filled with vibrant culture. A visit to the Dalada Maligawa will give you a glimpse of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha venerated by most Buddhists. Embark on one the most beautiful train rides from Nuwara Eliya to Ella and fall in love with this small laid back town surrounded by the beautiful greens of tea plaintation. The Nine arch bridge located in Ella is a piece of beautiful architecture hidden between lush green tea fields is a must to do in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan tea is a signature taste, and you will a variety of blends that will tantalize your senses.
Sri Lanka is a wild life lover’s paradise and one of the best places in Asia for viewing majestic creatures wandering in the wilderness. Located in the south east part of the island, the Yala wildlife park has the highest concentration of leopards in the world. In addition it is home to many species of endangered animals and a large variety of beautiful birds. If you are an animal and nature lover this is one of the most incredible places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka with decades of magnificent history is home to diverse cultures; each having a story to tell. Its rich culture and heritage, of Kings and Warriors of yesteryear will no doubt mesmerize you as you journey through an adventurous tour of history. Some items you must have on your bucket list and places never to miss, are the Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, Adam’s Peak, Pinnawela Elephant orphanage, Galle Fort and a wild life safari.
Speak to an experienced travel agent or guide who can help you plan a perfect trip that will give you the real Sri Lankan experience. There is so much to see and so much to do, brace yourself for some adventure and excitement! The Sri Lankan smile will forever stay in your heart.
