Sri Lanka is a wildly popular holiday destination – and for good reason. It offers an enviable blend of culture, wildlife, and adventure that you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Framed by breathtaking rainforests and white sandy beaches, it’s a place that has something for everyone. In this article, we look at three of the many reasons why you should have Sri Lankan holiday on your bucket list.

Go there to enjoy captivating wildlife

Any wildlife lover should already have Sri Lanka on their must-visit list. The island has a vast variety of animals, including endemic species that cannot be found elsewhere. Some of the unique wildlife you can spot during your visit include the red slender loris, the Sri Lanka blue magpie, and the purple-faced leaf monkey. You’ll want to embark on a safari through one of Sri Lanka’s many national parks to secure your best chance at spotting some of these fascinating creatures. Alongside the local species, you may also sight some of Sri Lanka’s famous leopards – particularly if you pay a visit to Yala National Park, which is home to the largest density of leopards in the world.

hill country of sri lanka is famous for tea

Introduction to Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

Breathtaking scenery

Sri Lanka is adorned with a wonderful mix of lush greenery and white sands, making for a truly stunning natural landscape. In amongst the vegetation, you’ll discover towering mountains and ancient rainforests with a wide range of flora and fauna. In the central area of the island, you’ll find tea plantations nestled within the landscape that offer a glimpse into the country’s history. Some of them may even be tea estates with accommodation, allowing visitors to stay in the heart of it all.

dance show at kandy

And the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

Rich culture and history

Because of its remarkable and fascinating history, Sri Lanka has a unique mixed blend of cultures. As well as a mix of different faiths, the architecture of the island reflects the multiple countries that once colonised Sri Lanka. First, the Portuguese discovered the island in 1505, and it was then colonised by multiple other nations before finally gaining its independence in 1948. One of the historical monuments that still stands today as a testament to the country’s past is the expansive ruins of Polonnaruwa, an ancient city comprising stone statues and buildings. It’s a truly remarkable sight, and one you absolutely won’t want to miss on your Sri Lanka trip.

Plan a trip to Sigiriya Photo by Shashank Hudkar on Unsplash

Need more reasons to visit Sri Lanka?

Every bucket list should have a spot reserved for Sri Lanka – this special island makes for a trip that you’ll remember for years to come. Whether you spend your time relaxing on the sandy shores or venturing into deep rainforests, Sri Lanka is special in that you can quickly get from one biome to another, so you can play it by ear and go where your heart takes you.

Sri Lanka offers great hikes at Horton Plains National Park

A sambhar deer at Horton’s Plains in Sri Lanka

Beach destination of Sri Lanka.

A good Sri Lankan platter

Follow the rest of the Sri Lanka series

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