Sri Lanka is an island state that is home to just over 20 million residents. The people are open and friendly and will welcome you to their homeland. It has two official languages, but most of the locals speak English as well.
Oh, and there are so many great attractions that you’re going to want to rent a car so that you can see as many as possible. Of course, people have different ideas about what they want to see and do, but here are just a few suggestions of some the things you should not miss if you visit Sri Lanka.
Exotic Wildlife In National Parks
Sri Lanka has several national parks where you can view animals in their natural habitat. Yala National Park has the world densest population of leopards, or go to Minneriya National park to see over 400 elephants gather to eat the grass. You can also see crocodiles, many different species of monkeys, buffalo and the Indian sloth bear that you will find hard to find outside of Sri Lanka.
The Train
Sri Lanka has some of the most stunning views and landscapes in the world. There is no better way to soak in the views than by traveling on the train. If you are prepared to pay a little extra, you can sit in an air-conditioned carriage. At every station there will be vendors selling freshly prepared snacks such as pineapple or mango pieces, and these can be really refreshing as you travel through the countryside.
There are two main train trips you can take, but they are both so popular it is advisable to book your tickets in advance.
The Beaches
The fine white sand of the tropical beaches in Sri Lanka, and the clear blue seas will make you wonder if you should ever visit anywhere else. They are a peaceful and idyllic setting, and after a long day in the jungles watching the animals, is the perfect place to relax.
In the south east of the island there are beaches for surfing and partying, if that is what you are after.
Colombo
Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka, and all international flights use the airport situated here. It is a city full of life, and here you will find just about everything you need. There are hotels, guesthouses, shops, restaurants and bars all in a city that has managed to mix the modern with the ancient very well.
Galle Face Green, which is a major attraction for tourists and locals, is located in the heart of Colombo, as is the Gangaramaya Temple. The Viharamahadevi Park is located next to the National Museum of Colombo. It is the city’s oldest park and features a large Buddha Statue.
Sri Lanka has many other wonderful places to visit. There are adventures to try, different cuisines that are delicious and the local villagers will make you feel at home. It is an island with so many different religions and cultures that all exist very happily together, and is one of the places that everyone should try and visit.
