Why Sri Lanka’s rich culture and scenery make it unforgettable

From warm and friendly people, fantastic culinary traditions and opportunities to travel by train through towering mountains, bask along sun-kissed shores and visit national wildlife reserves for memorable getaways; Sri Lanka is a land overflowing in captivating scenes. To the first-timer, here is what the Emerald Isle can offer you as a holiday destination. 

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Sri Lankans are inviting and accommodating 

Whether you wish to live and explore big cities, such as for example, the business capital of Colombo or escape to rural sections and villages of the country, as a visitor, you will never be too far away from a word of advice, a friendly smile or an infectious laugh. This is why travelling throughout Sri Lanka, whether as first-timers or as a solo globetrotter can be both pleasing and worry-free, as you will always be made to feel right at home. 

The landscapes are awe-inspiring

The regions across Sri Lanka ebb and flow with remarkable ease and as a result, afford the curious at heart with a wide spectrum of experiences to embrace and be one with. In terms of beaches, Sri Lanka serves up an amazing mix of laidback and adventure-savvy escapes, each with its own unique character and charm. The beaches hugging the western and southwestern shoreline are perfect to kick back and unwind with a king coconut juice in hand or try out a water sporting activity, while the east and particularly, Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise that you would do well to check out. Thereafter, the central highlands are an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true, given the extent to which you can fine-tune an itinerary that addresses personal whims and fancies. From being able to hike through forests, delight in some ziplining in the scenic town of Ella to taking a train ride on the famed up-country line that will have you passing by colonial-era railway stations, lush green tea estates, gurgling streams, majestic rivers and sweeping vistas of valleys & mountains; herein lies a chance to see Sri Lanka through a completely different lens. 

Sri Lanka’s appeal is fuelled by a distinct heritage

History and culture buffs will encounter ample reason to holiday in Sri Lanka, as the island nation is laden with many a historic setting, city and sight to behold. A visit to the citadel in the hills – Kandy presents those with a chance to tour the Sri Dalada Maligawa or ‘Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic’ and witness ancient traditions, beliefs and a golden chamber that contains the tooth relic of the Buddha. The age-old cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are repositories of great learning and sightseeing and combine for a sublime experience where you are bound to see Buddhist temples, man-made reservoirs and ruins of former kingdoms, almost in one go. In fact, if based at Hotel Sudu Araliya, which is one of the finest hotels in Polonnaruwa, then you will be well placed to call by the Gal Vihara and the Parakrama Samudraya. 

Wildlife expeditions are one of the country’s major talking points

Those passionately fond of the wilds will find Sri Lanka’s national parks and reserves a worthy investment of their time and focus. Birdwatchers are advised to explore the Kumana and Bundala National Parks. At the former, you will be able to view a variety of bird species ranging from the Black-necked Stork, the Eurasian Spoonbill and the Purple Heron. Moving over to Bundala National Park, one will be well positioned to catch a glimpse of the Blue-tailed Bee Eater and flocks of the Greater Flamingo. For sightings of the Asian Elephant and the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard, then it is a must to organise a safari to either Yala National Park or Minneriya National Park. While if you opt for Wagamuwa National Park, then you stand a great chance to spot the Small Golden Palm Civet, Sri Lankan Axis Deer, the Toque Macaque and the main highlight – the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear. During such adventures, it is essential to carry a camera but one must always side with caution when using one in an attempt to not disturb these animals from moving about their natural habitats.