Sri Lanka has gorgeous beaches, wonderful food, and a sublime tropical climate. These are just a handful of the primary reasons you should consider adding this South Asian island nation to your travel bucket list. Known by many as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, visiting here gives you a chance to learn about its ancient history. Visit the Cultural Triangle to see the ancient rock fortress known as Sigiriya, go to Minneriya National Park to see huge collections of Asian elephants, or just head to Hikkaduwa or Arugam Bay to catch a few waves.
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1. Year-Round Tropical Climate
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons. However, they impact different areas of the island nation. They also happen at different times. This works out to the benefit of visitors, because no matter when you go, part of the island has an inviting and sunny climate.
Australian health entrepreneur Virginia Mealing says that the climate was one of the draw cards for her to travel to Sri Lanka. “Most people travel to go to a place that has an enjoyable, sunny climate, and Sri Lanka was the best place for that. The fact that at least one part of the island has perfect weather at some stage throughout the year is a perfect reason to go to Sri Lanka to soak up some sun rays.”
May through July is when the southwest part of the island has its monsoon season, leaving the north end of the island free of rain. Conversely, the northeast monsoon season happens from October through January, meaning it’s a great time to venture south.
2. Delectable Cuisine
Sri Lanka’s cuisine is very distinct, largely due to flavouring using exotic spices. The rice and curry here is famous. It often includes an intensely fragrant lentil and fish or chicken curry featuring rice and veggies to the side. Locals highly recommend the fish curry in particular. If you’re craving street food, then try the Kottu. Coming from Tamil origins, this has chipped roti flatbread, often with veggies, egg, and meat. It’s also got salna, a side of spicy sauce. You shouldn’t miss it. Try the egg hoppers while you’re here too.
3. Vibrant Beaches
Sri Lanka’s coastline boasts some of Asia’s most pristine beaches. The sandy beaches are unspoiled and lined with turquoise waters and palm trees.
Cake designer Pearl Toh believes that the beaches in Sri Lanka might even rival the ones in Australia! “Obviously I’ll be biased and say that Aussie beaches are the best in the world. But I tell you what, the beaches in Sri Lanka are running our beaches very close in terms of the best in the business. Every time I go there it’s harder and harder to leave.”
If you want to get some sun in a peaceful place, then head to Mirissa. If beach parties are more your thing, then Unawatuna is a good place to head. Adrenaline junkies flock to Bentota for water activities that include para-cycling and kitesurfing.
4. Mind Blowing Hiking and Landscapes
Sri Lanka has a plethora of flora and fauna, which means that the nature trails have stunning views. Expect to find waterfalls among the misty mountains shooting up into the clouds. Lower hillsides might be layered with paddy fields descending into tea estates. Deer and peacocks are going to occasionally cross your path. The Demodara Rail Hike around Ella is a great place for beginners who want to see the Nine Arches Bridge, which is a colonial-age viaduct. Veteran hikers might want to look into Kirigalpotha. The Knuckles Mountain Range is another great choice, since many consider it the nation’s most gorgeous hiking trail.
5. Enchanting Colonial Past
Nuwara Eliya is known as Little England. This sleepy town sits in the centre of the island’s tea country hills. It has many Tudor-style hotels, colonial-age bungalows and buildings, and well-curated gardens and hedges.
Samuel Northfield of Northern Rivers Demolition says that the architecture he saw on his first visit to Sri Lanka made him fall in love with the country. “There’s something classic about all of the Tudor-style architecture. You’re transported to a whole different world, and it’s one that holds such rich history too.”
Take a step into the past by visiting this small but entertaining place. Nearby Gregory Lake is a massive body of water featuring water activities and lakeside barbecue options. You can also go to Horton Plains, a place of rolling plains and gorgeous grasslands, to see waterfalls and World’s End, a dramatic escarpment.
Once the international travel restrictions are lifted, you’ll want to make Sri Lanka your first stop. But while we’re still grounded, check out Aus News Lanka’s website for all things Sri Lanka!
Whether it’s the best Sri Lankan eats in Australia, news about Sri Lankans in Australia and everything in between, it’s all covered over at Aus News Lanka.
