Being such a small island, Sri Lanka boasts of its diversity of wildlife both flora and fauna which includes National Parks, rain forests, South Asia's biggest zoological gardens and many more-
Some of the best beaches in the world belong to us. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the sun sea and the golden sand does not blend any better in the other parts of the world. This makes Sri Lanka an aquatic playground for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, surfing and windsurfing.
- Negombo
- Mount Lavinia
- Bentota
- Beruwala
- Kosgoda
- Hikkaduwa
- Weligama
- Unawatuna
- Kirinda
- Kalpitiya
- Koggala
- Wadduwa
- Ahungalle
- Tangalle
- Casuarina
- Kilali
- Vankalai
- Mirissa
- Dickwella
- Arugam Bay
- Passikudah
- Nilaveli
- Marble Beach
- Alankuda
Sri Lankan PeopleLeaving out all the other material factors, the Sri Lankan people alone is experience by itself. Known to be one the most friendliest, helpful and hospitable community of people in the world, the innocence and warmth offered by just a smile is unique at its own.
Even the way you are greeted here in Sri Lanka, with palms put together upward and saying "ayubowan" means "may you live long and healthy".
The majority of the Sri Lankans are Buddhist. With over 70% of the population following Buddhism, the Buddhist festivals are celebrated in grand manner. While the Islam and the Hindu accounts for 17% in total and Christians acuminate to 6%
Historical SitesOne of the oldest recorded histories in the world can be experienced, with proof, here in Sri Lanka. Dating back to more than 2600 years, Sri Lanka is the island with the most amounts of UNESCO heritage sites in the world.
Recorded history begins with a prince from India named Vijaya accidently coming to Sri Lanka and meeting a local princess named Kuweni. From there onwards the arrival of Buddhism and the makings of all the historical sites are recorded in a book call "Mahawanshaya". But folktales reveal the history before "Mahawanshaya" where the footprint at the top of Adam's peak also known as "Sri Pada" where this was identified by Buddhists as the Lord Buddha's footprint, by Hindus as that of the God Shiva, and by Muslims as Adam's.
Other than the hundreds of Buddhist historical sites and ruins that can be found in Sri Lanka, the history of the colonial period have also left its marks. After the ruling of the kings, the Portuguese, Dutch and then the British ruled and governed Sri Lanka leaving behind their architecture as a footprint.
Some of the must see historical sites include
- Sites in Anuradhapura
- Sites in Polonnaruwa
- Dambulla Viharaya
- Sigiriya
- Sites in Kandy
- Adam's Peak
AyurvedaThe word "ayu" means life and "veda" means science. Therefore the term "ayurveda" means 'the 'the science of life'. One of the world's oldest approaches to medicine, Ayurvedic healing is an ancient system based on 5000 years of tradition and to this day is a accepted choice of treatment amongst Sri Lankans and is practiced by almost 60% of the population.
Reflecting the country's rich background in this form of alternative treatment, Sri Lanka is home to many Ayurvedic healing centres and spa retreats specialized in offering high quality yoga sessions and Ayurvedic medicine and are available in range of retreats from eco resorts in rural surroundings to luxury hotels all over the island.
Sri Lankan Spicy FoodSri Lanka is known for its most complex cuisines mainly due to the different cultures and religions in Sri Lanka. But may it be a Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim or Burger meal, be prepared for the spiciness included in it.
Sri Lankan cuisines mainly consist of boiled/ steamed rice with curry. This consists of a "main meat curry" and several other vegetable/ fruit curries with pickles, chutneys and sambols as side dishes.
The famous coconut sambol, made of grated coconut with chili peppers and dried Maldive fish is "not to miss dish" here in Sri Lanka. This is eaten with rice, bread and any other main dish. But it is best taken with string hoppers and "kiri hodi".
Another must try rice dish is kiribath meaning "milk rice." with sambols. This is made during special occasions as an auspicious meal.
Festivals in Sri LankaSri Lanka tops the list of countries in Public Holidays in the world which are mostly inspired by the four main religions - Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. Most of the Buddhist festivals are usually large parades involving decorated elephants, dancers and drummers. The famous Peraharas include Esala Perahera in Kandy, Gangarama Perahara in Colombo and the Katharagama Perahara.
Known as one of most colorful festivals in world is the festival celebrated in the month of May to mark the birth, enlightenment and the death (parinirvana) of Lord Buddha popularly known as the Vesak festival.
Some of the main festivals are as follows
JanuaryThai Pongol - The Hindu festival to honor the sun god and the rain god
FebruaryFebruary 4th - Independence Day
Navam Perahara - Two day festival in the Gangarama temple.
AprilSinhala and Hindu New Year - April 13 & 14
Easter holidays
MayVesak Festival.
JunePoson Festival - to celebrate the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
July / AugustEsala Perahera - Takes place in Kandy celebrating Lord Buddha's 1st sermon and the arrival of the
Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka which is placed in the Dalada Maligawa temple in Kandy.
OctoberDeepavali - The Hindu Festival of Light is celebrated in honor of Rama, the hero of the great Hindu
epic the Ramayana.
DecemberChristmas and New Year is celebrated island wide
Honeymoon Paradise A world famous destination for honeymoons that are unforgettable and unique, Sri Lanka is hard to beat in terms of being the ideal location for romance.
With a wealth of luxurious hotels, ancient cities, endless stretches of coconut-fringed beaches and lush green landscapes, honeymooners in Sri Lanka will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the perfect place to make memories that last.
Beach destination, hill country or cool climate that is desired, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer in a small space, ensuring that endless hours aren't spent on the road in getting to your destination.
Luxury VillasFor the ultimate vacation complete with lavish accommodation, courteous staff and magnificent views, a stay at one of Sri Lanka's luxury private villas is simply a must. Located primarily in the Southern and Western parts of Sri Lanka along the coastal belt, the beach villas can vary between imposing colonial structures to more modern minimalistic architecture. Generally rented out on a total occupancy basis, some rentals offer individual rooms to guests, especially during the off-peak seasons.
Most luxury private villas located in secluded niches on the island come fully staffed with chefs, housekeepers and gardeners, offer relaxing spa experiences and include various excursions in the surrounding areas. There are several villas located further inland as well for those looking to have a vacation away from the sea and sand.