Sri Lanka

Package Overview

SRI LANKA A JEWEL OF NATURE, CULTURE AND HERITAGE  

Sri Lanka, an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, is a land of rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, lush rainforests, and tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This small island, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deeper connection to nature and history.

Sri Lanka is located to the southeast of India, separated by the Palk Strait. It is an island country with a variety of landscapes, ranging from golden beaches along the coast to lush tropical rainforests, ancient cities, and mountainous terrain.

• The island is divided into three distinct climatic zones: the coastal region, which is typically warm and humid; the hill country, where the weather is cooler, with misty mountains and tea plantations; and the dry zone, which is characterized by plains, dry forests, and ancient ruins.

• The central highlands of Sri Lanka contain the island's highest peaks, including Pidurutalagala, and are home to temperate climates and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

• Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate, with two monsoon seasons: the Southwest Monsoon (May to September) and the Northeast Monsoon (December to February), influencing rainfall patterns across different regions.

History and Culture

Sri Lanka has a long and fascinating history, dating back over 2,500 years, and is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. The island was known as Ceylon during colonial times, and its strategic location has made it a center of trade and cultural exchange. Over the centuries, Sri Lanka has been influenced by a variety of cultures, including Buddhist, Hindu, Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, and British cultures.

• Ancient Kingdoms: Sri Lanka was home to great kingdoms such as Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, which are renowned for their ancient architecture, temples, and irrigation systems. The Kandyan Kingdom in the central highlands was the last to resist colonial rule.

• Colonial Era: Sri Lanka was colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and finally the British, who left a significant impact on the island’s infrastructure, culture, and economy, particularly in tea cultivation.

• Independence: Sri Lanka gained independence from Britain in 1948 and became a republic in 1972. Today, it is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious country, with Buddhism being the predominant religion, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

Major Attractions in Sri Lanka

1. Cultural and Historical Sites:

• Sigiriya: An ancient rock fortress and palace, also known as the "Lion's Rock," is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers panoramic views from the summit.

• Anuradhapura: One of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, this city is home to some of the island’s most significant Buddhist temples, stupas, and sacred sites, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest recorded tree in the world.

• Polonnaruwa: Another ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and statues from the 11th to 13th centuries.

• Kandy: The cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses a tooth of the Buddha, and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

• Galle: A charming colonial city located on the southern coast, Galle is famous for its Dutch Fort, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Natural Beauty:

• Ella: A picturesque town in the hill country known for its stunning views, tea plantations, and natural attractions like Ella Rock and Nine Arches Bridge.

• Horton Plains National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and the famous World’s End cliff, which offers dramatic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Yala National Park: One of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. It is a popular safari destination.

• Udawalawe National Park: Known for its large population of Asian elephants, this park is a favorite for safaris.

3. Beaches:

• Unawatuna: A beautiful beach near Galle, popular for swimming, diving, and relaxing by the sea.

• Mirissa: Known for its stunning coastline and whale-watching opportunities.

• Bentota: Famous for its golden beaches and water sports activities, including windsurfing, kite surfing, and jet skiing.

• Nilaveli and Trincomalee: Located on the northeastern coast, these beaches are less crowded and known for their clear waters, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

4. Tea Plantations:

• Sri Lanka is famous for its Ceylon Tea, and a visit to the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Hatton is a must. Visitors can tour tea factories, see the tea-making process, and enjoy scenic views of rolling hills covered with lush green tea fields.

• Lipton’s Seat: A viewpoint in the hills offering panoramic views of tea plantations, named after Sir Thomas Lipton, who was instrumental in promoting Ceylon tea.

5. Wildlife and Nature:

• Sri Lanka’s biodiversity is astounding, with many unique species of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore nature reserves, national parks, and sanctuaries to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a wide range of birds, including the famous Sri Lankan peacock and hornbills.

• The sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a rich tropical rainforest with rare species of plants and animals.

6. Religious Sites:

• Dambulla Cave Temple: A large complex of caves filled with Buddhist statues, paintings, and murals.

• Temple of the Tooth (Kandy): A sacred Buddhist site that houses a tooth relic of the Buddha and is an important pilgrimage destination.

Activities and Experiences

• Trekking and Hiking: Sri Lanka offers several scenic trekking routes, especially in the hill country. The Horton Plains trek and Ella Rock hike are popular among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

• Water Sports: Sri Lanka is a paradise for surfing, especially along the southern coast. Popular surf spots include Arugam Bay and Weligama. Diving and snorkeling are also excellent in locations like Hikkaduwa and Trincomalee.

• Wildlife Safaris: Take a safari through the country’s national parks to spot Sri Lanka’s native wildlife, including the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, and a variety of bird species.

• Ayurveda and Wellness: Sri Lanka is well-known for its Ayurvedic treatments. Many resorts and wellness centers offer spa treatments, yoga, and holistic therapies using traditional Sri Lankan methods.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit depends on which part of the island you are traveling to:

• The west and south coasts and Hill Country are best visited between December and March when the weather is dry.

• The east coast, including areas like Trincomalee and Batticaloa, is best visited between April and September.

Accessibility and Travel

Sri Lanka is well-connected by air through the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which has flights to and from major cities worldwide. The island is accessible by bus, train, and private vehicles, making it easy to explore both the coastal and inland areas. Traveling by train through the hill country offers one of the most scenic journeys in the world.

Sri Lanka is a diverse and captivating destination, offering a rich mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, trekking through lush jungles, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Sri Lanka provides a unique travel experience. Its combination of history, wildlife, landscapes, and hospitality makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler.