Introduction
Sri Lanka has been named the number one country to visit in 2019 by Lonely Planet, one of the most prestigious travel guide publishers in the world. This small island nation is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions and destinations in Sri Lanka, as well as provide useful information on how to get there and what to expect.
Top Tourist Attractions and Destinations
| Destination | Distance from Colombo | How to Get There |
|---|---|---|
| Sigiriya Rock Fortress | 170 km | Car, Bus |
| Temple of the Tooth | 116 km | Car, Train |
| Yala National Park | 300 km | Car, Jeep |
| Galle Fort | 125 km | Car, Train |
| Ella | 205 km | Train, Car |
Galle Fort
Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort is a remarkable blend of European architectural styles and traditional Sri Lankan designs. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean on three sides, providing stunning views of the sea. The fort is a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, offering visitors a chance to explore its historical buildings, quaint streets, and charming cafes and shops. It is also a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an ancient palace located in the heart of Sri Lanka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. The fortress is built on a giant rock and is surrounded by lush greenery and water gardens. Visitors can climb the rock and explore the ancient ruins and frescoes.
Temple of the Tooth
The Temple of the Tooth is a sacred Buddhist temple located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is believed to house the tooth relic of the Buddha and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. Visitors can witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the resident monks and explore the beautiful architecture of the temple.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka and one of the country's premier eco-tourism destinations. The park covers an area of 979 square kilometers and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and crocodiles. The park has five blocks, two of which are open to the public, and visitors can explore the park by jeep safari. Yala National Park is also home to several important cultural sites, including Sithulpawwa Rock Temple and Magul Maha Vihara, which are popular with history and culture enthusiasts. The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka's natural beauty and diverse wildlife up close.
Local Cuisine and Dining Experience
One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food, and Sri Lanka has a rich culinary heritage. Some must-try dishes include:- Rice and curry: a staple dish consisting of rice served with an assortment of curries and sides
- Kottu: a type of street food made with shredded roti bread, vegetables, and meat or eggs
- Hoppers: a bowl-shaped pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, often served with egg or curry
In addition to the food itself, the dining experience in Sri Lanka is also noteworthy. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating in beautiful settings, such as overlooking the ocean or in the midst of a lush forest. Eating with your hands is also a common practice, adding to the sensory experience of the meal.
Discover the Pristine Beauty of Sri Lanka's Best Beaches
Sri Lanka is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, offering a mix of golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets. Some of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka include Unawatuna, Mirissa, Tangalle, Pasikudah, Nilaveli, and Arugam Bay.
Unawatuna, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life. Mirissa, also on the southern coast, offers long stretches of golden sand, calm waters for swimming, and a variety of water sports.
Tangalle, situated on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, offers secluded and pristine beaches, with the added bonus of lush greenery and stunning rock formations. Pasikudah, on the eastern coast, boasts of shallow waters and a reef system, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.
Nilaveli, located on the northeastern coast, is famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Finally, Arugam Bay, on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, is a haven for surfers, with its consistent waves and pristine beaches.
Overall, Sri Lanka's beaches offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.
Wildlife and Nature
Sri Lanka is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and nature enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Some of the most popular destinations for wildlife spotting include:
- Yala National Park: famous for its population of leopards, as well as elephants, water buffalo, and more
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic species of birds and mammals
- Mirissa: a coastal town where you can go whale watching to spot blue whales, sperm whales, and more
Shopping and Souvenirs
No trip is complete without some shopping, and Sri Lanka has plenty of options for unique souvenirs. Some popular items to bring home include:
- Tea: Sri Lanka is known for its high-quality tea, and there are many tea factories and plantations that offer tours and tastings
- Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka has a long history of gemstone mining, and you can find a wide variety of precious stones and jewelry at markets and shops
- Handicrafts: there are many artisanal handicrafts in Sri Lanka, such as handwoven textiles, pottery, and wood carvings
Some of the best hotels in Sri Lanka
| Hotel Name | Star Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Shangri-La's Hambantota Resort & Spa | 5 | Hambantota |
| Cinnamon Lodge Habarana | 5 | Habarana |
| Jetwing Vil Uyana | 5 | Sigiriya |
| Heritance Kandalama | 5 | Dambulla |
| The Fortress Resort & Spa | 5 | Galle |
| Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort | 5 | Tangalle |
| Cape Weligama | 5 | Weligama |
| Jetwing Lighthouse | 5 | Galle |
| Ulagalla by Uga Escapes | 5 | Anuradhapura |
| Amaya Hills | 4 | Kandy |
| The Kingsbury Hotel | 4 | Colombo |
| The Beach Cabanas Retreat and Spa | 4 | Unawatuna |
| The Grand Hotel | 4 | Nuwara Eliya |
| The Blue Water | 4 | Wadduwa |
| Mount Lavinia Hotel | 4 | Mount Lavinia |
| Jetwing Beach | 4 | Negombo |
| Earl's Regency Hotel | 4 | Kandy |
| Avani Kalutara Resort | 4 | Kalutara |
| Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing | 4 | Pottuvil |
| Turyaa Kalutara | 4 | Kalutara |
Few budget hotels in Sri Lanka
| Hotel Name | Location | Star Rating | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backpack Lanka | Colombo | 2 | $10 |
| Bungalow by Amaya | Kandy | 2 | $20 |
| Kandy Hostel by Backpack | Kandy | 2 | $12 |
| Clock Inn Dehiwala | Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia | 3 | $25 |
| Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon | Hikkaduwa | 3 | $35 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the season and availability. It's always best to check with the hotel directly for up-to-date pricing information.
FAQs
What is Sri Lanka famous for?
Sri Lanka is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and friendly people.What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region you plan to visit. Generally, the best time to visit the west and south coasts is from December to March, while the best time to visit the east coast is from April to September.Conclusion
Sri Lanka is a destination that truly has something for everyone. From its rich history and cultural heritage, to its stunning natural beauty and warm hospitality, there are endless reasons to visit. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking to relax and soak up the sun, Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination in 2023. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that this incredible country has to offer!
No comments:
Post a Comment