Why Travel To Sri Lanka?
Diversity
From its pearl-like shape to its diverse landscapes, Sri Lanka mesmerizes with its variety. Along its coast, you’ll find beaches that range from expansive stretches to secluded rocky coves. As you move inland, the terrain transforms into a tapestry of lagoons, wetlands, and lush jungles, culminating in misty mountains adorned with forests and cascading waterfalls. The island boasts an incredible array of natural wonders, including seven distinct types of forests and an abundance of waterfalls, making it a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
People
Sri Lanka’s charm extends beyond its landscapes to its people, who embody warmth and hospitality. A melting pot of ethnicities and cultures, the island is home to indigenous Veddas, as well as Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, Malays, Chinese, Burghers, and more. Despite their diverse backgrounds, Sri Lankans share a common trait – an infectious smile and a genuine eagerness to welcome visitors into their homes and hearts.
Cultural Heritage
With over 2,000 years of recorded history, Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage is rich and varied. UNESCO has recognized six archaeological sites as World Heritage Sites, including ancient cities, sacred temples, and colonial fortifications. Visitors can explore the Cultural Triangle, where towering dagobas, ancient ruins, and intricate frescoes offer a glimpse into the island’s storied past. From the sacred city of Anuradhapura to the colonial charm of Galle Fort, Sri Lanka’s heritage sites are a testament to its vibrant history.
Wildlife
Conservation is ingrained in Sri Lanka’s heritage, with ancient monarchs establishing the world’s first wildlife sanctuary over two millennia ago. Today, the island boasts an impressive 13% of its land dedicated to natural parks and reserves. Its biodiversity is unparalleled, with a plethora of endemic species inhabiting its forests, plains, and waters. From majestic elephants and elusive leopards to vibrant birdlife and exotic reptiles, Sri Lanka offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to connect with nature.
Adventure & Special Interest Sports
For thrill-seekers, Sri Lanka offers a playground of adrenaline-pumping activities. With its extensive coastline and numerous rivers, the island is ideal for water sports like surfing, diving, and white-water rafting. Its diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for trekking, rock climbing, and mountain biking, while its lush forests and pristine wilderness beckon explorers to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders.
Hotels
Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to different preferences and budgets. In Colombo, the capital city, there are both modern five-star hotels and iconic colonial-era hotels that exude the charm and romance of a bygone era. The coastal areas of Sri Lanka, particularly the west and south, are abundant with resort hotels that cater to package tourists. Many of these resorts are designed by Geoffrey Bawa, a renowned Asian architect known for his unique style known as “tropical modernism”. These coastal resorts provide stunning settings for a beach vacation. On the west and south coast, there is also a growing number of boutique hotels, with many concentrated around the city of Galle. In the hill country towns such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Bandarawela, colonial-era hotels dominate the accommodation options. These hotels exude the charm and elegance of the past. Additionally, in towns like Dikoya and Norwood, there are luxurious properties like Tea Trails, located amidst lush tea plantations. For those seeking a more adventurous stay, there are converted colonial homes, tree-houses, eco-lodges, and even camping options available. Overall, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious five-star hotels to charming boutique hotels, colonial-era properties, and unique eco-lodges. Travelers can choose the type of accommodation that suits their preferences and immerse themselves in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage
