Why visit Sri Lanka

As travel enthusiasts, we know that it’s not easy to pick the next travel destination. How about we make your life a tad bit easier. If you’ve ever considered travelling to Asia, then the serene island country of Sri Lanka is a destination you ought to visit. The island is a tropical paradise that appeals to all kinds of travellers. It is blessed with a host of pristine beaches, culturally and historically rich sites, adventurous activities to engage in, vast stretches of lush green plantations and some of the best wildlife reserves. A holiday in Sri Lanka is definitely worth experiencing and here’s a few reasons as to why.

An aerial view of the gorgeous palm fringed coastline of Sri Lanka.

A cultural melting pot with a modest lifestyle

Sri Lankans are known for their humility and simple way of life, which is reflected in their appreciation for nature. At the same time, their love for art, architecture, dance, music and other creative forms are always at display. Be it on the streets, famous monuments and sites or at a local’s home, these creative forms can be witnessed throughout the island. While the country is a bit traditional, it is still open minded and showcases traces of European culture. A part of the reason being the Dutch and Portuguese invasion back in the day. So you’re bound to feel welcome if you travel to Sri Lanka.

Galle Fort, a world heritage site built by the Dutch and Portuguese.

A colourful display of festivities

If you visit this multicultural country, one thing is for sure. You are bound to come across jubilant celebrations of festivals hailing from different religions and cultures. Vesak Poya is one of those festivals that you should certainly experience when in Sri Lanka. Celebrated across the island, the Festival of Lights marks the birth of Buddha. It’s that time of the year when the country glimmers with paper lanterns.

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is another occasion where the island comes to life. The celebrations involve fireworks, decked up streets and so much more. But that’s not all, there are a host of other festivals which are celebrated with just as much pomp. Experiencing the festivities can really make you feel like you’re a part of their traditions.

The celebration of the Sinhalese New Year with grand fireworks in Sri Lanka.

A call out to nature lovers

Let’s face it, doesn’t the thought of visiting a tiny island right in the Indian Ocean sound intriguing? Our thoughts exactly. If you’re a nature lover, Sri Lanka is going to sweep you off your feet at every turn of the way. Blessed with a coastline that stretches over 1500 kilometers, Sri Lanka the perfect destinations to visit if you’re looking for some beach time. The island boasts of 25 amazing beaches.

Moreover, with over 3000 endemic plant species and 140 endemic amphibian species, Sri Lanka’s glorious biodiversity lets you feel as though you are truly in mother nature’s arms.

They have numerous National Parks that you can visit too. Sri Lanka also elegantly flaunts its Tea Plantations in places like Nuwara Eliya and the ancient city ruins of Sigiriya.

The lush green tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka.

Where thrill awaits adventurers

Are you one of those travellers who is constantly on a quest to find some thrill? Trust Sri Lanka to give you the adrenaline rush you seek. The Kitulgala town in the west coast of the rainforest is one of those places that rafting enthusiasts frequently visit. That’s not all, the country has more such places to engage in White Water Rafting. Nuwara Eliya is another place where numerous operators cater to beginners and experts alike.

Sri Lanka is also a welcoming land for those who enjoy surfing. The Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa and Weligama,, are just a couple of places that boast of a reputation for being a surfer’s paradise. Also, another huge reason to visit Sri Lanka would be the plethora of amazing diving sites. From spotting the rarest of sea creatures to witnessing wrecks of ships built during the World War 1, the island has some of the best diving spots.

Surf lessons at Weligama are ideal for first timers. If you’re looking at catching the big waves, head to Arugam Bay – a surfers’ paradise.

For hoggers and food bloggers alike

Would we recommend Sri Lankan cuisine to about anybody? Absolutely! Do your tastebuds need to be brave and seasoned for the ride? Once again, absolutely! When it comes to making sure there’s a good amount of flavour in your food, Sri Lanka is definitely up there. The Sri Lankan cuisine is renowned for strong flavours, be it on the savoury, spicy or the sweet end of things. We would definitely recommend trying the island’s flavourful sea.

Rice and curries are a staple in the island, along with coconut milk or simply different forms of the fruit. But you will definitely love the variety of curries Sri Lanka offers. The preparation of curries can include grated or syruped coconut or even dried stalk of the palm fruit. The hearty dishes like hoppers (made of fermented rice batter) also make for a comforting dish you can enjoy at any time of the day.

Sweet hoppers, a favourite among the kids and a popular local dish, is available at any bakery in Sri Lanka.

All in all, Sri Lanka is of those countries that you can’t judge at first sight. As they say great things come in small packages, Sri Lanka is the perfect example to prove it. With plenty of hidden gems, the island has it’s way of working it’s magic on you. Travel is affordable, the food is great, it is one of the most welcoming countries, and the perfect place to visit if you want to experience the relaxed island life. Quite frankly, we can keep going on and on about why visit Sri Lanka. You can read up all about the country, from the best places to visit to the things to do, and still be surprised at what Sri Lanka throws your way. So if you’re looking to visit this exotic island for your next holiday, reach out to us and we’ll plan it for you.