Top 10 Unforgettable Things to Do In Sri Lanka
Positioned in the Indian Ocean, though often overlooked by vacationers trailing through Asia, the sumptuous and alluring island of Sri Lanka provides an assortment of exclusive experiences to see and do.
An ultimate destination for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs and those simply seeking to dwell in a much-needed relaxation, Sri Lanka would possess your heart by the end of your exotic visit. Keep reading to uncover the 10 unforgettable things one should not miss when in Sri Lanka.
10
Go Island-Hopping
Are you among the many dreaming of escaping your hectic daily schedule and dive into the mood to surrounding yourself in tropical bliss? If YES, island hopping in Sri Lanka shouts the perfect remedy.
Situated off the northern tip of the country is an assortment of islands, though they don’t offer much other than the typical accommodation, the islands do possess the perfect place to escape and unwind and are home to remarkable wildlife.
09
Hike Up the Eminent Adams Peak
A mountain of great historical interest, positioned in a gorgeous area of the Southern Hill Country, has allured to its heights millions of the human race, the ascent of which should be accomplished by all travellers who are possessed of the necessary energy and physique for the task.
The folklores take their rise in the mark on the summit resembling the impression of a colossal human foot. This the Buddhists fervently worship as the blessed footprint of Gautama Buddha, while the Hindus equally claim it as that of Siva, and the Mahommedans, borrowing their history from the Jews, as that of Adam.
No other Mountain depicts the same unhindered view over land and sea. Around it to the north and east, the voyager gazes down on the zone of lofty hills that embrace the Kandyan Kingdom, whilst to the westward, the eye is carried far over undulated plains, strung by rivers like twines of silver, till in the purple horizon the shimmer of the sunbeams on the sea signifies the streak of the Indian Ocean.
08
Savour Traditional Sri Lankan Food
A journey to the island of Sri Lanka is an opportunity to banquet on its rich, melting-pot cuisine, which is swayed by its geography. Positioned in the Indian Ocean amid Eastern and Western culture, one can expect a profusion of flavours. For vacationers, it’s a feast for all the senses.
The Sri Lankan cuisine has combined flavours from around the globe and yet, has a taste that is all it’s own. It’s a mixed bag of flavours and an explosion of colours, which remains a constant reminder of our colonial past. Though at present many restaurants cater to western tourists, the less touristy areas offer authentic dishes, though be warned that the dishes can be immensely spicy!
07
Visit a Tea Plantation
Since its inception, what went into making the perfect cup of invigorating Ceylon tea, were equal parts science, sleight of hand, art and a whiff of luck. Due to several of the machinery and methodology being over a century old, we vehemently believe that Ceylon Tea itself is a portion of the world’s living heritage and thus, this is your invitation to partake in it.
06
Exotic Train Journeys
The picturesque train rides of Sri Lanka can be epitomised to be one of the most stunning journeys through the island as it takes you through stunning landscapes of green and lush tea plantations and mountain views to be one of the many best highlights of Sri Lanka to date.
Though much slower than their western counterparts, the trains are reminiscent of days gone by, portraying a modern picture of the archaic times. The scenery one gets to witness as the trains wind through the hills gives many reasons to purchase a ticket to venture into the island nation.
05 Explore the Cities of Galle and Kandy
With access to numerous rural wonders to admire in the country, it’s also advised to take time exploring a few of the big cities. Both Kandy and Galle are two worthy cities that every first-time traveller ought to include in the itinerary as both are renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Situated in the southwest, Galle is a coastal city which boasts of sublime views and architecture swayed by both Portuguese and the Dutch. On the other hand, the city of Kandy unveils a selection of historically significant sites and relics portraying those which was once the Royal Capital of the country.
04
Take Part in Local Buddhist Traditions
One of the greatest perks about travelling is the opportunity to ascertain new perceptions and ways of life that are way different from one’s own. Once in Sri Lanka, one has the rare opening to dwell into the teachings of the enlightened one – Lord Buddha through witnessing Buddhist practices, a faith followed by the majority of the local population in the country.
Sri Lanka offers countless opportunities to witness spectacular monuments, statues, and monasteries dedicated to Lord Buddha. Once you step into the sacred dominions of the country, the tour guides would often portray the history as well as the basic beliefs and values of the religion, giving an insight into the divine history the country possesses.
03
Get Up Close and Personal With a Blue Whale
Most people travel to Sri Lanka simply for the astounding opportunities the country offers to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. For those seeking to relish in their fantasy of witnessing one of the biggest marine mammals, then you must head to the southern tip of the country which guarantees a peek to spot the magnificent blue whale, especially from January to April.
02
Unwind On One of the Tranquil Beaches
Although Sri Lanka provides plenty of things to see and do for its many visitors, the country is also one the finest places to relax and is one destination mostly picked by vacationers to spend most of their time unwinding on its many serene coastlines.
If there’s one thing Sri Lanka has plenty of are its secluded beaches lining much of the country’s southern and eastern coastlines where the beaches are isolated enough to make one feel like you’ve washed off onto your island paradise.
01
Spot a Leopard in YALA National Park
The Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned national parks, forming a total area of 1268 square kilometres of light forest, scrub, brackish lagoons & grassy plains. It’s immensely rich in wildlife where one is certain to encounter elephants, sloth bears, leopards, deer, crocodiles, and monkeys; three of which fall within “The Big Five of Sri Lanka (elephant, sloth bear and leopard).
Yala National Park is predominantly popular as it offers the chance to witness one of the most gorgeous big cats, the leopard. The national park is one destination most often picked by visitors who do want a peak of one of the majestic cats in the wild.
Zone 1 is estimated to have around 75 leopards, with a span of 144 square kilometres which is a ratio of 1:2 signifies the fact that there is a more probable chance one may spot a leopard wandering in the wild. Though it’s really up to chance, it is crucial to bear in mind that there is a window of missing a sighting even while being a minute late.
Since animal sightings happen throughout the year, one may visit the park year-round. Though November to March is considered the high season, this time of the year offers pleasing weather across the island, with less rain and ample opportunities to spot wildlife.
Source: Elle, V. (2019) ‘Top 10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Sri Lanka’, The Travel.com, 12 September. Available at: www.thetravel.com
