A country rich in history and culture is none other than the
paradise island of Sri Lanka. The heart of most of its dramatic history
and its ancient civilization is in the cultural triangle. This area is
formed by linking the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura, Polannaruwa,
Kandy, and Dambulla with Sigiriya in the centre. The cultural triangle
is a UNESCO world heritage site and is the pride of all Sri Lankans.
The Dambulla cave temple is the largest and the best preserved cave
temple and its statues and paintings relating to Lord Buddha’s life
make it a must see for all visitors to Sri Lanka. It is situated on top
of a colossal rock which offers views of the immediate plains from 160m
above. Also known as the Golden Temple, the major attractions are five
caves which hold statues and paintings which represent Buddha and his
life. Anuradhapura one of the ancient capitals was discarded for
centuries and enclosed by thick jungle until it was exposed by the
British. A site for pilgrimage and known as sacred as it contains the
Bodhi tree which is respected by Buddhists along with many monuments and
monasteries which are of great archaeological value. The famous sites
are Ruwanwelisaya stupa. The remains of the Abhayagiri monastery as well
as the Jethwana monastery and the Aukana Buddha statue. Rock temples,
carvings, statues, the terraced ponds and water reservoirs make
Anuradhapura a wonder to any traveler.
The second ancient citadel Polannaruwa contains the spectacle Lake
Parakrama, which is a man made lake which has impressive engineering
from the ancient times. The main things to see are the ruins of the
Royal Palace and the ruins of Nissanka Malla’s Palace. Rankot Vihara,
Lankatilaka Gedige, Kiri Vihara and the Gal Vihara.
A wonder of the cultural triangle is Sigiriya rock fortress,
constructed in 5th Century AD. This marvelous fortress contains well
laid out gardens, pools, fountains as well as the oldest surviving rock
paintings of the famous Sigiriya maidens. No trip to Sri Lanka is worth
it without visiting this wonder known as Sigiriya. The cultural triangle
is by far ancient Sri Lankan architectural tradition at its very best
Luxury Villas of Sri Lanka
For 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
Plantation farming in Sri Lanka
The plantation farming sector in Sri Lanka understandably comprises of a large and vital sector of the economy and encompasses the major plantation crops tea, rubber and coconut amongst others.
Eco hotels in Sri Lanka
With its lush biodiversity and teeming wildlife, Sri Lanka has no shortage of eco hotels to choose from, ranging from luxury boutique hotels to smaller resorts each with its own unique offerings, reflecting the location of the country that they are situated in. The hotels generally arrange wildlife and sightseeing tours for visitors and are equipped with safari jeeps and experienced tour guides for such purposes.