Sri Lanka — aka the Pearl of the Indian Ocean — might be small (think size of Tasmania), but wow does it deliver!
Layered in history and culture thanks to a revolving door of invaders and visitors (Southern India, Portugal, the Netherlands, and the British Empire), it’s now a vibrant mix of traditions, with Buddhism reigning peacefully as the spiritual heartbeat.
Throughout the countryside, you will find ancient temples, stupas, and centuries-old ruins.
Sci Lanka even has its own Stonehenge.
For the fit and adventurous – climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya.
The land is lush and agriculture is central to daily life. Terraced tea plantations cling to the hills, while rice fields and fruit crops like bananas and coconuts flourish on the lowlands.
Farming is largely manual, old school practices with traditional tools, which are rudimentary by modern standards. Some held together with coconut rope, which adds to the charm.
The country is also home to a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems, preserved through an extensive network of national parks and protected areas.
These parks offer opportunities to observe iconic species such as the Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, and the elusive leopard in their natural habitats.
We visited Minneriya and Yala National Parks.
Getting around? Tuktuks rule the road.
Cars are too expensive, so these little three-wheelers are seen zipping everywhere, are the main way to travel, and part of the fun.
Population 22.4 million
Speed limit in mostly 50km but rarely exceeded
Literacy rate of 97%
Drinking age is 21.
So thanks Total Holiday Options for a fabulous 12 day tour of Sri Lanka.
Our Tour leader Shyam was brilliant with stories that were thought provoking and at times either made us laugh or cry. Personally recounting experiences of the 1983-2009 Civil War and the Boxing Day 2004 Tsunami
Brilliant accommodation was 4 to 5 star and with the much needed swimming pools – IT WAS HOT!
Jetwing Blue – Negombo
Amaara Forest Hotel – Sigiriya
Amaya Hills – Kandy
Araliya Green Hills Hotel – Nuwara Eliya
Chaarya Resort and Spa – Tissanaharama
Thaala Bentota Resort & Spa - Bentota
