When we think of Sri Lanka, elephants, temples, spices and tea come to mind. Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a fascinating country where green nature predominates: golden sand beaches, coconut palms, mountains, rubber and tea plantations. The fauna and flora are remarkable. The island is full of rare and precious species, fruits, plants and trees. Here’s why Sri Lanka should be on your travel bucket list:

exotic wildlife

Sri Lanka offers some of the best wildlife in Asia with a plethora of water buffalo, sloth bears, birds, leopards, monkeys, sambar deer and crocodiles etc. Yala West National Park is suitable for spotting leopards. If you’re interested in spotting elephants, head to Udawalawe National Park. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a very popular destination for bathing and playing with elephants. Eager to see beautiful mammals, then dive with blue whales or see spinner dolphins in Kalpitiya.

exquisite beaches

Plan your getaway with Sri Lanka’s endless supply of beaches, from the most idyllic and fun to the most enchanting beach destinations in every corner of the island.

Bentota is suitable for sun lovers. You can visit all year round with water sports such as surfing, sailing, snorkeling, water skiing, jet skiing and windsurfing. You can also visit a sea turtle hatchery and conservation center where five of the seven species of sea turtles that exist in the world are monitored.

Hikkaduwa is excellent for beach parties. Resorts and hotels have been renovated. The beach town is energetic and has a buzzing nightlife, with the annual three-day Beach Fest where international DJs continue to tune into the night on the beach.

Mirissa is a good place to surf. It is a relaxed beach destination where you can enjoy whale watching such as blue whales and sperm whales while enjoying activities. You can even climb Parrot Rock, a unique terrain, located at the end of the beach.

fond of food being served

Sri Lanka enjoys a varied and selective cuisine. Foodies will go crazy over its array of colorful and tangy treats. Lovers of the sea will be delighted with fresh fish, crabs, squid, crayfish, prawns… Desserts include Cuajada and molasses. Snacks such as cutlets, patties, fish buns (malu pang), sugar-coated sweet buns (kimbula bunis) are a delight for the taste buds. Staples include hoppers – a pancake, string hoppers – steamed rice noodles, pittu – a mixture of coconut and flour, lamprais rice with different accompaniments.

Cultural heritage

Sri Lanka is packed with world heritage sites. Its cultural depth is recognized by UNESCO: The Sacred City of Anuradhapura, The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, The Golden Temple of Dambulla, The Ancient City of Sigiriya, The Sacred City of Kandy, The Old City of Galle and its fortifications, The Forest Sinharaja Reserve. Every heritage has its beauty and needs to be explored.

Tea plantation visit and morning walk.

Popular for its Ceylon tea, the capital of tea production, Nuwara Eliya is the best place to learn about its origin. Tour the tea plantation and learn how it is made. Stroll through lush green tea plantations on a four-hour hike to Ella Rock for jaw-dropping views.