Constructed in the 5th century, the fortress complex of Sigiriya Rock includes numerous well-preserved attractions
Upon completing the third trip in the last decade, I finally decided to pen it and share the experiences & places with potential and prospective travellers from across the globe.
The tropical island nation situated in the Indian Ocean which lies off the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka attracts tourists every year from around the globe with its natural beauty. Known for its spectacular beaches, thousand-year-old Buddhist temples, an abundance of wildlife, and rich archaeological history, Sri Lanka is an enchanting place with a plethora of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy.
Although it’s impossible to define the beauty in words and cover the entire country in this travelogue; however, am sharing a list of places, based on my last itinerary, you must visit in Sri Lanka:
Main entrance at Wolvendaal Church the Dutch Heritage in Sri Lanka, Colombo
To begin with the capital city – Colombo, which is a cosmopolitan gateway to the wonders of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial heritage, stunning landscapes and delectable cuisines. Some of its infamous attractions include the Lotus Tower – South Asia’s tallest freestanding structure, world-class casinos like Bellagio and Ballys, and cinnamon plantation hiking trails.
The city offers a great experience of sightseeing, shopping and nightlife. Visit Pettah Market’s vibrant oriental themes and colourful shops or watch the sunset at Mount Lavinia Beach or perhaps, some scuba diving in Chief Dragon and The Sierra! Colombo seamlessly blends adventure, luxury, culture, and history. Indeed, a beautiful capital!
Sigiriya also known as Lion Rock
Moving forward, located in the Matale district, is a significant site of the Cultural Triangle – Sigiriya, which has been declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. The site, also known as Lion Rock, is widely acknowledged for the remains of the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The fortress complex, constructed in the 5th century, includes numerous well-preserved attractions such as the royal gardens, one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world, and the Mirror Wall which is embellished with ancient graffiti, as well as the Sigiriya Museum at the foot of the rock which has a plethora of artefacts on display.
Another intriguing archaeological site found nearby is Pidurangala, which houses the remains of a cave temple complex. Hiking to the summit of Pidurangala Rock which offers stunning views of the Sigiriya Rock is a great experience one should have!
Ella is a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Next is Ella in Badulla District which is a calm small town in the Sri Lankan highlands with tea plantations, mountain jungles and a moderate climate. Situated at an elevation of 1,041 metres, this wildlife-rich friendly town has ancient caves, centuries-old temples, and the famous Ella Gap, a cleft between two hills which showcases lofty views.
Ella’s iconic nine arches railway bridge is the town’s most famous structure which is a fine example of colonial-era construction in Sri Lanka. One can enjoy walking trails in the area, trekking activities to the breath-taking Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak or visit the countless quaint cafes for a peaceful getaway! Located nearby is Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, Diyaluma Falls which overlooks natural swimming pools in Ella’s mountains. Other popular attractions are Ellawala Falls and Ravana Caves which offers 82-metre-high zip lining.
Galle, formerly Point de Galle, port and city, Sri Lanka, situated on a large harbour on the island’s southern coast
In the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a major city blessed with spectacular Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient churches and mosques, pristine beaches, mansions and museums and a festive seaside promenade. Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle attracts tourists from around the world.
Galle Fort and Lighthouse display awe-inspiring Victorian relics. The city’s highlights are the stone seawalls built by the Dutch, car-free streets with Portuguese and British architecture. Galle is also known for its pristine beaches like Ahungalla Beach and Unawatuna Beach as well as the Historical Mansion Museum, Flag Rock and Meeran Mosque. One can take home precious handicrafts, silk and trinkets as souvenirs from the Old Dutch Market and Galle Face Green Night Market!
Rich in culture, Sri Lanka is an intriguing blend of luxury and local traditions. Will soon capture the rest of the country in the upcoming travelogues. To conclude, I must say that it is a delight for every nature enthusiast and tourists who love to experience new culture. Sri Lanka is a tiny island country that surely has a lot to offer!
Himanshu Talwar is an avid traveller himself and has explored many countries around the world. An author of several books, he also frequently writes travelogues.
