The Ancient World
Adam’s Peak, The giant footprint on top of this 2,243m high mountain is sacred to Buddhists, Muslims, Christians and Hindus alike.
Sigiriya Lion Rock, the eighth Wonder of the World, at 180m high, dominates the surrounding canopy offering stunning views at sunrise for energetic legs.
Kataragama is a revered and sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. Famed for its fire-walkers and water-cutting ceremonies.
Aukana has the island’s most elegant and perfect 12m high Buddha statue, hewn from a single piece of rock.
The Ancient Cities
The ‘Cultural Triangle’ contains no fewer than 5 of Sri Lanka’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites within the area that is covered by Mihintale & Anuradhapura to the north, Kandy & Polonnaruwa to the east. Along this route, you will find the birthplace of Buddhism, the holiest tree, the Temple of the Tooth and inspiring dagabas.
Sporting Adventure
Kitulgala is as famed for its prehistoric caves as it is for white water rafting and the location for the film ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’.
Nuwara Eliya, One of four fabulous golf courses (Kandy & Colombo) is set in the rolling hills of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing country. Home to horse racing and an old vibrant British colonial town.
The Natural World
Yala National Park (Ruhuna) is located here with a chance to see jungle fowl, babblers, elephant, and with the highest density in the world, there’s a great chance of spotting leopards.
Kaudulla National Park, Herds of up to 250 wild elephants are drawn to the tank built here in the 17th century. It is also populated by leopard, sloth bear and a diverse bird life.
Ella, The Ravana Ella Cave forms part of this stunning landscape, with magnificent mountain walks, waterfalls and wildlife.
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage is just a short drive from Kandy and home to almost 100 elephants. Lots of photo opportunities, with babies quaffing huge volumes of milk and the river playing host to the biggest washing day you’re likely to see.
Sinharaja Biosphere Reserve, Sinharaja means ‘Lion King’ and this UNESCO World Heritage Site is thriving with endemic wildlife.
The Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya are approx. 4kms from the colourful city of Kandy.
Gal Oya National Park is 540 sq km of rolling country, the largest lake in Sri Lanka and home to an abundance of wildlife.
Beautiful Beaches
Bentota, 1-1/2 hours south of Colombo, rightfully claims its popularity with a wide arc of sandy beaches.
Negombo, A perfect place to start or finish a tour of the Cultural Triangle. A gentle beach peppered with luxurious hotels.
Arugam Bay – for kite surfing and beautiful sand beaches.
More Highlights
Ambalangoda houses the history and craftsmanship of the devil masks and scented cinnamon plantations.
Galle, This Dutch fort town is home to the booming boutique hotel business. Wander the ramparts and the shops lining the 7th UNESCO World Heritage site.
Ratnapura is a tropical treasure chest producing topaz, rubies, amethyst, garnet and aquamarine, whilst famed for its blue sapphire.
Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a bustling city full of cosmopolitan life with international cuisine & casinos.
The Jaffna Peninsula is a remarkable journey to another land. Find old Austin cars in Jaffna, colossal baobab trees on Mannar Island, and a perfect view across to India from Point Pedro. |