At a Glance
The Indian Ocean islands are among the most mysterious and spectacular in the world, boasting crystal clear waters, fabulous pearly white beaches, unique wildlife and culture, upscale over-water bungalows, majestic scenery, thousands of breathtaking views, fantastic waterfalls and lush tropical beauty. Sri Lanka, which is known as the Island of Serendipity is no exception; it's a small paradise and a dream destination for family, wildlife and cultural holidays, tropical weddings and honeymoons, and real adventurers. Escape to this magnificent island filled with natural and cultural treasures and experience an incredible journey of a lifetime!
Geography and Climate
A teardrop-shaped Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is one of the largest islands in the Indian Ocean, located nearly 32 kilometers off the southeast tip of India between a chain of tiny islands known as Adam's Bridge. You can see the Bay of Bengal to the south west part of Sri Lanka, and the Arabian Sea on the south west. Covering a total land area of 65,610 square kilometers, Sri Lanka is home to more than 20 million inhabitants and six World Heritage sites, including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy. Sri Lanka's population is considered one of the world's fast growing populations. Pidurutalagala is the highest point in Sri Lanka reaching 2524 m.
Sri Lanka experiences tropical climate with average annual temperature of about 32째C in the lowlands and about 22째C in the higher mountainous regions. There are distinct dry and wet seasons which are characterized by two monsoons occurring from May to August and December to March. Best time to visit Sri Lanka varies greatly in different regions. On the whole we can say that Sri Lanka is an all-year-round destination, however, November to April are the months when the main tourist season begins.
Famous Sri Lanka Cities
You can find most Sri Lanka cities marvelous with their active bustling life, exquisite natural and cultural heritage, including botanical gardens & national parks, bird & marine sanctuaries, forts &museums, monasteries, Hindu temples and historical monuments. To explore and experience the adventures in the notable cities of Sri Lanka is something you shouldn't miss out.
- Colombo: It is the exotic commercial capital of Sri Lanka and is worth a look, as you will find a wide range of interesting attractions, including some lovely temples, historic churches, beautiful parks and the Colombo museum. Colombo has great collection of 5-star hotels on the beachfront. Taste the richness of cuisine in the city's plentiful restaurants, bars and cafes. Colombo is also home to the exciting district of Pettah bazaar, where you will find the streets teamed with shops and stalls selling all manner of goods you can ever imagine.
- Kandy: The Hill capital Kandy is one of the most charming and beautiful cities in the country, boasting a living record of a magnificent past. It's a major tourist destination, famous for many Buddhist temples and home to one of the holiest shrines in the world, the Temple of the Tooth. Kandy offers plenty of wedding and honeymoon hotels, hill country hotels, boutique hotels, as well as a wide selection of villas, and adventure lodges. You can find Kandy an exciting place for shopping.
- Galle: Famous for a colorful history, this world heritage site is built around a well preserved Dutch fort dating back to the 16th century, where you will feel as if you are in Dutchland. There is no need to worry about accommodation services in Galle as you can find guest houses, resorts, inns, hotels and other accommodations to suit any budget.
In recent years holidays in the dazzling Indian Ocean Island of Sri Lanka have become increasingly popular, having a lot to offer; here you can enjoy the gentle blend of history, culture, and wildlife, the pleasant aroma of tea plantations and exotic rich spices, amazing palm-shaded sandy beaches, picturesque waterfalls, impressive ruins, a vibrant culture and charming friendly people.
Wildlife lovers will have the opportunity to meet the elephants in the elephant orphanage in Pinnawela, go bird watching and butterfly watching in the rainforest of Sinharaja or else experience whale and dolphin watching in the turquoise waters surrounding the island.
Those who are more than adventurous can choose from adventure-based activities, including trekking, mountain biking, cycling as well as all sorts of water activities, such as white water rafting and canoeing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Visiting one of the many national parks of Sri Lanka is also a great idea. Yala National Park is the largest Sri Lanka Park, situated in the southeast region of the island. Here you can find all the big game mammals of the country, and an abundant bird life with more than 140 species.
Sri Lanka holidays have something for everyone. Holidays in this small miracle offer many things to see and do across the country, from historical explorations to outdoor activities. Spend your vacations in Sri Lanka-the land of never ending discovery.