From ancient cities and kingdom to jungles and sandy beaches, here are few of the special places that present opportunities to celebrate travel at its finest.
Sigiriya
The 5th-century monolithic rock citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the time of King Kasyapa. This magnificent fortress embodies one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Sri Lankan urban planning and irrigation hidden amidst a tropical forest. Its rock carvings specially the gigantic section of what remains of the ‘Lion Paws’ and beautiful rock painting frescos preserved from the elements for over a millennium in a cave have become some of the most iconic showcases of national artistic heritage in Sri Lanka. The Rock Palace at the summit is a miniature city of its own and today the landscaped gardens of Sigiriya are the oldest surviving in Asia and among the oldest in the world.
Kandy
The last kingdom of Sri Lanka, home to the temple of the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Kandy is a UNESCO world heritage site which houses the most important Buddhist artefact in Sri Lanka: historically, it has played an important role in local politics due to the belief that whoever holds the relic is responsible for the governance of the country. Upon entering the temple, witness a cultural performance before proceeding to navigate the hallowed hallways of the palace.
Witnessing a cultural pageant in the months of July and August showcasing traditional dancers, drums and elephants, shopping for rare gems and jewelry, antiques and wood carvings, visiting royal botanical gardens are among the major excursions, tourists like to be part of in Kandy.
Mirissa
Nestled in tip of Weligama bay, the long lost Surf Shangri La for beginners and pros alike Mirissa is a hotspot for whale and dolphin watching. Visit secret beach, a small secluded beach tucked around the corner from the main beach, if you get there early enough you just might have it to yourself.
Ella
A charming town surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, Ella is a great place for adventurous souls, offering many popular spots to hike or trek: summit Mini Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock to witness a stunning sunrise, then visit the architectural wonder that is the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and see a train pass which is always a delight even better when experienced at sunrise. Ravana falls is a mere 10 minutes from Ella township, which will not disappoint! It also hosts an amazing zipline experience stretching at 500m which will let you reach speeds of up to 80km/h.
Galle
In Galle, the Dutch Fort is a must-see, originally built by the Portuguese and conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century, today it is a UNESCO World Heritage sitealong with the adjoining Dutch hospital precinct that is now home to chic restaurants, cafes and boutique shops.
Stroll along bluestone paved roads, visit a museum, peruse some jewelry and other trinkets, grab some gelato at a cafe or restaurant, take in the view of the ocean from the ramparts… there’s something for everyone!
Ahangama
A southern beach town where the only sounds you’ll hear are the waves hitting the shore and the palm trees swaying – is the ideal location for a serene and picturesque getaway.
You can do everything from taking up yoga or surfing, enjoying Ayurveda or wellness treatments, visiting turtle hatcheries or tea estate, and even learning or experience stilt fishing!
Hiriketiya Bay
A south bound surfing haven surrounded by quirky cafes and bars – is the perfect spot for a fun yet relaxing vacation under the island sun.
The best time to visit is between November and March when the waves and warmth are just right. The food and beverages with a local twist remain fantatstic around the year, of course!
Arugam Bay
Considered the surf capital of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is a world famous destination with breaks for Surfers of all skill levels complemented by Yoga lessons and mediation, Ayurveda and wellness spots, Beach parties and the well known hippie market.
Visit Kumana National Park, a hidden delight of Sri Lanka hosting a very special eco system of wildlife and stunning scenery on the eastern coast of the island.
