Why Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka, a small island somewhat inconspicuous, extremely beautiful, and with a wealth to explore and experience.

Sri Lanka's cultural heritage sits alongside an interesting geopolitics that has made the country more nuanced, more interesting, and a legit grand place to visit.

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Highlights

Gangarama Maha Vihara Temple, Colombo

Surprising to some, Sri Lanka is primarily Buddhist. This Gangarama temple is a testament to this. It hosts literally thousands of depictions of the Buddha in etching, in large statue, in tiny statue, and in a beautiful facade gold and pink throughout the temple’s corridors. Men sell lotus for offerings out doors and there are tours and much to see in the different vestibules within. This was the highlight of Colombo for me, a gorgeous temple to experience. However, try to go early or non-weekend days. Not my experience, but I’ve read some travelers have been overwhelmed by the tourists there.

Seema Malakaya Temple, Colombo

Near Gangarama and technically a part of it, Seema Malakaya is a Buddhist temple on the waters, the Lake Beira. The temple is meant as much for meditation as for worshiping and has a quieter vibe than the more glitzy Gangarama. It’s also an apparition-like vision, seemingly perched atop the waters floating. After its precarious placement actually sunk after a first building, the second time round, it stays standing since 1976.

Mirissa Beach, Mirissa

Colombo’s beaches are a bit more sterile and city feel than the southern area. Mirissa and Mirissa Beach is a lowland beach that almost feels Caribbean-esque with the brushed turquoise waters and the warm feel of the ambiance. A just over 2-hour drive from Colombo, if you’re spending time in Sri Lanka, this laidback southern area has an even more subdued feel than the north. It’s a beautiful day-trip, or a really nice few days repose. The crowds this area draws are diverse and the scene is an inspiring look at the local Sri Lankan sea-culture.

One of the most unique things to witness or even try your own hand at in Mirissa is the local stilt fishing. A traditional style of fishing in the area, fishermen wield rods while perched atop long poles stamped into the sand and waters.

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Kandy

Kandy is worth visiting aside from Colombo, another major city of the island. Colombo is oceanside and is sea focused, while Kandy, inland is mountainous. The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a sensational immersion into this jungle, mountainous, and lush richness of Sri Lanka. In its inception, this sanctuary was the garden for the royalty of Sri Lanka. It has since morphed into a slightly more wild-embracing place, but still retains a sophisticated and mysterious ambiance that reflect the roots of its make.

Within the sanctuary are trails, trees that climb all over, and a few Buddhist temples. There are plenty of stories in the history of this place that hosts so much abundance. It’s a place to explore and enjoy thriving nature.

Sigiriya Fort

This fortress is kind of like the Sri Lankan version of Ularu mixed with the Temples of Angkor. It’s casually known as the 8th Wonder of the World and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site officially in 1982. The fortress is massive and it’s impending. The fortress is also history-inclusive to the days of the Kings of Sri Lanka when this site was the capital of the island. Known as the Lion Fortress for its previously ingrained pattern, its formation is made from inselberg, a type of volcanic rock. What’s amazing about this fortress is the steep incline to the top with 1270 steps to reach its peak. Once you reach it, you’ll see the residue of where the palace was once built.

The fortress is also inclusive to gardens, remains of its waterways, and irrigation systems of the once palace. It’s said that the King had built moats filled with crocodiles way back then, though these are legends written in ancient script.

Overall, it’s a site to behold that gives credibility to the both capabilities of nature, and of humans.

Kandy to Ella Train Adventure

For those who have visions of gliding past tea plantations in a pastel-colored train, this may be exactly up your alley. Begun in mountainous Kandy, the train takes off and passes escapades of Sri Lanka’s villages, mountains, tea plantations, jungle, and mesmerizing views. These are views that one simply can not see hiking or from any other vantage point.

The train offers snacks that are one of the most memorable parts of the trip. And you can peek outside excitingly of third class or sit more lavishly in a first class ticket as you soak in the vistas. This is the adventure and train to take in Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay? Sayura, Colombo

When I think about the best kind of place to stay in Sri Lanka, it’s the warmth of a home, a homestay particularly. These are the kind of cozy bed and breakfasts that serve piping hot aromatic rice and Dahl, fried puff breads, and overly buttered pastries, with a whole pitcher of milky tea. They’re run by a couple with children in and out of doorways and herding the chickens around in the courtyard.

Sayura gives this vibe and manages to be a comfortable homestay, minimal yet playful, with great food, friendly people, family-friendly, and an ideal location. Don’t skip the breakfasts…!

*Safety tip

For the day or even for your trip duration I suggest hiring a translator or guide. Intel from a local can inspire so much that could be missed otherwise. Guides are often affiliated with homestays or bookings for things, are affordable, and also offer a safe way to go about traveling.

Bottom line

Sri Lanka has a history that stretches further back than 3,000 years…!

Some of the most ancient cities of scripture have taken place on the island, and give it an old relic visceral feel. Kingdoms have risen and fallen, and yet the modern depiction of the culture presents itself with ease. Unlike nearby India whose streets teem with captivating chaos, Sri Lanka retains a sort of calm in local spots and tourist places as well. Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sri Lanka is a place for the curious and also for the spiritual. Its temples are breathtaking and very individual. Its beaches are likewise, the same. It has some magical spots that make the island feel like a treasure trove of adventure, but calm adventure.

If a unique island nation is something that piques your interest, with fascinating history, views for days, and delightful tastes, look no further than Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka