A lush tropical island paradise, famously described by Marco Polo as “undoubtedly the finest island of its size in the world.” Its name rolls off the tongue like a waterfall tumbling from rich green mountain slopes. It has the rhythm of a primitive drumbeat, the refinement of a cup of fine tea, the sparkle of a sapphire, the spice of a savory curry like the island itself. It’s as colorful as a market bazaar and as mysterious as a Buddhist chant.
Long ago the island of magical proportions was called Ceylon, Serendib, Taprobane and Tambapanni. An 18th century english writer had Sri Lanka in mind when he coined the word ‘serendipity’ - the faculty of making happy and unexpected discoveries by coincidence. Sri Lanka is no coincidence, it is an experience.
Set in the Indian Ocean off the southeast tip of India, Sri Lanka is about half the size of Alabama. Most of the land is flat and rolling; mountains in the south central region rise to over 8000 ft. (2438 m). This fascinating land is only 270 miles long and 140 miles across at its widest point. Smaller than Ireland and slightly larger than the American state of West Virginia, it has a remarkable combination of much to offer a traveler - stunning landscapes, pure beaches, captivating cultural history and lots more unique experiences.
In the Urban Centre Colombo, Western progress and technology are superimposed on the frenzy of a national Asian Metropolis. Modern beach resorts meanwhile offer visitors unspoiled sands and 20th century luxury. Sri Lanka is a year-round travel destination for sun, sea and endless golden sandy beaches.
In a area of 65610 kilometers lie 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, 1330 kilometers of the coastline are much of its captivating beaches, 15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25000 water bodies, all this and more for a culture dating back to over 2500 years.
Sri Lanka for a while had been hiding in plain sight. Scores of travelers have passed overhead on their way to someplace else, only because years of uncertainty had kept Sri Lanka from exhibiting itself from many itineraries.
But now this paradise island has firmed its place in many itineraries of travelers. This country is moving at a fast pace in every way positive as more and more people unearth its myriad charms.
Really though we can’t tell you how your adventure here should unfold. But we can suggest this: take a deep breath and let this isle of Wild, Thrills, Bliss, Essence, Festivity, Scenic, Heritage, and Pristine do its thing.
Come discover Sri Lanka, discover it’s splendor for yourself.