Sri Lanka was formerly known as Serendib (from which the word 'Serendipity' derives) and more recently as 'Ceylon'.
Floating just off the southern coast of India this country of diverse beauty (about the size of Ireland) has rightly long been known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, aptly termed 'An island like no other'.
Sri Lanka offers a veritable feast of attractions for the visitor, among them; a myriad of cultural sights (including seven World Heritage sights), an abundance of wildlife (including leopards and an elephant orphanage), colonial architecture, cascading waterfalls, misty mountain tops, enchanting valleys, lush tea plantations and tropical rainforests.
Seductive beaches and tempting water sports, magnificent landscapes featuring lazy lagoons, fertile wetlands, ecologically-wondrous types of forest, imposing mountains, bounteous rivers and waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife - much of it endemic - unique ecosystems, inspiring heritage sites from ancient cities to colonial forts, a vibrant culture including fine arts and crafts and grand festivals, and a people of diverse ethnicity and religious persuasion, charming and hospitable.
Many guests opt to take a sightseeing tour of Sri Lanka either as part of a group or with a private car and driver/guide who are amazingly good value for money and exceptionally knowledgeable and flexible.
During a week visiting all the following major sites are achievable at a relaxed pace , Pinnawela ( the elephant orphanage ) Sigiriya ( the famous rock fortress) and Dambulla ( the caves and Buddhist temples) the breath-taking countryside of Kandy way up in the hills (home of the sacred tooth relic) the tea plantations and cascading waterfalls of Nuwara Eliya and a safari or two to view the wild life for a couple of days in Yala National Park – right at the southern tip of Sri Lanka or the Dutch fortress of Galle.
Sri Lanka is home to 7 UNESCO world heritage sites including Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple the ancient cities of Polonnariwa and Anuradhapura, Kandy and Galle dutch fort and Sinharaja Rain Forest so planning a 10 day to 2 week holiday exploring the delights of Sri Lanka is entirely possible.
Contemporary tourist attractions such as luxurious Ayurveda spas and broad-based shopping opportunities have evolved, and Sri Lanka has become one of the world’s most popular destinations to get married and enjoy a honeymoon.
For those who want a slower pace to unwind, Sri Lanka is fast becoming a hotspot for extravagant spas in beautiful beach front locations creating the perfect end to a week’s tour exploring Sri Lanka.
Alternatively Sri Lanka can be pared with the Maldives, Dubai and several destinations in the Far East.
For further information on holidays to Sri Lanka call 01243 779 737