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With a wide variety of accommodation available, most tourists travel to the south of the island for beach relaxation, surfing, diving and brilliant hiking opportunities. This island has more than 2000 years of history, so explore the ‘Cultural Triangle’, formerly known as Rajarata or ‘Land of the Kings’ which is located in the north/central plains.
This affordable island country in the Indian Ocean, formerly known as Ceylon, may only be the size of Ireland but has so much to offer. It is suitable for all types of travellers and is also a popular honeymoon destination and is often booked as a twin-centre holiday with the Maldives.
Top Reasons To Visit Sri Lanka
1. History and Culture Cycle or take a tuk tuk around the ancient and former capital city Anuradhapura, with
temples and dogabas containing holy relics, or go to Polonnaruwa (smaller than the
Anuradhapura but the ruins are in a better condition). Dambulla cave monastery has been a
place of pilgrimage for more than 2000 years and is decorated with frescoes and buddhas.
Climb challenging Sirgiriya Rock Fortress for outstanding views and a 5th century palace at
the summit. Top Tip…get there very early to avoid crowds. Near Kandy, you can visit world
famous Temple of the Tooth, one of the holiest Buddhist shrines in the world. Colombo, the
capital, is lively and a former Dutch settlement.
2. Super sandy beaches
The main tourist area is on the SW coast from Negombo to Galle. The east coast is beautiful
but remains off the tourist trail. Nilaveli is unspoilt and Hikkaduva popular with surfers.
Unawatuna offers calm swimming.
Stilt fishing, borne out of necessity at the end of WW2 but now a tourist attraction only, can
be seen off Galle beach. Fisherman balance on a cross bar attached to a pole and they may
let you try too for a small fee.
3. Wildlife
Sri Lanka has huge biodiversity with many endemic species in its 26 National Parks.
Head to Yala National Park for 215 bird species and 44 different types of mammals including leopards, crocodiles, buffalos and sloths.
Udawalawe National Park is perhaps the best place in the world to see wild elephants with herds of up to 100. Enjoy a 4x4 safari in one (or more) of the national parks! Blue and sperm whale watching (December to April) is also an option off the south coast.
4. Sensational Local Food
Sri Lanka has its own unique and distinct cuisine and is very affordable especially if you eat
local dishes. Spices, fish and coconut feature widely on the menus. Try fish curry, Dahl (light
vegetarian curry), Jackfruit curry and Kottu roti street food.
5. Hiking and the Blue Train!
There are a vast range of hiking trails from easy day trips to guided trails in the mountainous interior. Hike to World’s End Cliff, Baker Falls, Adam’s Peak or through Knuckles Mountain. With intriguing names like those the hikes will live up to expectations!
The 6 ½ hour stunning train ride from Ella to Kandy (and vice versa) is the best on the island
and arguably the best in the world. Not to be missed!
6. Stunning Scenery
Discover the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country! This breathtaking region was cultivated by the British for tea production. It also became their 'cool retreat' from the heat of the lowlands.
You'll get to see stunning scenery, old-fashioned trains, hindu temples & Gothic churches. Visit Nuwara Eliya, in the heart of this tea growing country. Then onwards to Horton Plains, a plateau over 2000m high with an awe-inspiring mountain vista.
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Includes complimentary half board, free nights and 25% early booking discount. 
4* Radisson Hotel Colombo - 1 night with breakfast 
London Heathrow from £2,189pp
Bespoke itineraries available 
(01726) 219558
hello@mappingyourtravel.co.uk
