Sri Lanka

About Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a nation that packs in so much in so little. From the expansive Horton Plains National Park to the Dutch fort at Galle, Sri Lanka is blessed with history and architecture with heavy European influence, long sandy beaches of Negombo and Unawatuna, art and music, and much more, making it an action-packed island retreat.

This teardrop island is natural haven with a refreshing canopy of biodiversity and rich wildlife that offers an exceptional wilderness experience to its visitors. The beaches never fail to provide a relaxing therapy with an adrenaline boost from water sports.

Colombo offers the perfect blend of historical and religious sites that depict Sri Lanka’s religious diversity. Mount Lavinia beach and Galle face green are attractions that offer leisurely activities, making it the perfect destination for an incentive trip.

Kandy boasts picturesque beauty and magnificent heritage sites like the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, and World Buddhist Museum. The Kandy lake and the Udawattekele Sanctuary are must-visits in the city.

Galle, with the apparent influence of the Dutch, Portuguese, and Britishers, lies on the island’s southern coast. The Galle Fort, Lighthouse, Sea turtle farm, and Dutch churches are popular attractions, along with the variety of water sports its beaches offer.

The ancient Sri Lankan city is home to some of the best Sinhalese architecture dating back centuries. Some popular attractions include Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, and Jetavanaramaya. Also, visit the Wilpattu National Park and Ritigala Forest Monastery to explore Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

Sri Lanka Factsheet

Culture

About 2000 years old, the diverse Sri Lankan culture predominantly revolves around Theravada Buddhist customs and Hindu beliefs. High-spirited music, folk dances, and local crafts are a few immersive experiences that tourists must experience.

Festivals

Similar to India, Sri Lanka celebrates its festivals with pomp and pride. The Tamil and Sinhala New year, Pongal, Diwali, Vel Festival, Vesak Poya, and Mahashivratri are significant celebrations on the Lankan island.

Architecture

The religious influences and European colonists have impacted the architecture of Sri Lanka, resulting in various architectural styles. The palaces, monasteries, stupas, and temples display the diversity of olden influences and the modern population of the country.

Cuisine

Rice is a staple food along with curry. By putting a unique Sinhalese spin on outsourced recipes, the country makes each recipe it’s own alongside authentic dishes such as Polos, Kottu, Kukul mas curry, and Wambatu moju.

Best time to visit

Based on your itinerary, November to September is the ideal time to visit the country. If you plan to visit the South-West, plan from December to April, May to October for the East, and between February to September for the North-East.

Shopping

The Dutch hospital shopping precinct, Marino mall, Colombo City Centre Mall, and Kandy City Centre are prime shopping locations in Sri Lanka to buy various spices, teas, traditional jewellery, and handicrafts.