Sri Lanka, also known as the "Tear Island", is a country located in the Indian Ocean, south of India. It is a land of contrasts, with a rich history and culture, exuberant nature and a friendly and hospitable population. In today's blog we will go through those places that at Viajes Singulares we consider essential within this small country in the south of India.
Starting with general information about the country:
- Sri Lanka is an island country located in the southern part of Asia.
- The capital is Colombo.
- It is divided into 9 provinces.
- The official language is Sinhalese, but English is also widely spoken.
- The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee.
- Electricity is 230V.
Sri Lanka is a fascinating country and very rich naturally and culturally. For us, the 10 most interesting places on the island would be:
Sigiriya (Lion Rock)
Sigiriya is one of the most iconic places in Sri Lanka. This ancient fortress and royal palace sits atop a massive granite rock that rises abruptly from the surrounding plains. Visitors can ascend through staircases and hallways adorned with impressive frescoes. From the top, you get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. The journey up is approximately 20 minutes and will not disappoint anyone. The views from Lion Rock are one of the most beautiful and impressive on the island.
The rock arises from a volcanic eruption and since the end of the SV it has become one of the most important places on the island. The story goes that the ancient king Kashyapa, upon ascending the throne, decided to move the capital of his kingdom to Sigiriya by establishing his Palace-Fortress here. Not only will you find magnificent views in Sirigaya, but also the remains of what was the capital of the Kashyapa kingdom.
Buddha Tooth Temple (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy
This temple is one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka and houses a very important relic: the Buddha tooth. The building itself is a stunning example of Buddhist architecture and is part of the Kandy Royal Palace complex. Legend has it that the Buddha Tooth arrived in Sri Lanka in 483 BC. C hidden in the hair of Indian princess Hemamala during the persecutions of Buddhists in India. After crossing Sri Lanka, the tooth settled in Kandy and one of the most important temples of Buddhism was created there. The temple is a relic in itself, it is made up of a group of buildings surrounded by a wall. Among the materials that make up this temple we find materials such as limestone, marble, sculpted wood and ivory. In 1988, UNESCO registered the temple as a World Heritage Site.
Yala National Park
It is the most visited national park in Sri Lanka and is famous for its abundant wildlife. The Yala National Park is located in the southeast of the country, in the province of Uva. The park has 979 km2 divided into five blocks, although for the safety of the animals, only two can be visited. The reserve was considered a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and officially classified as a national park in 1938, which indicates the great distance it has as a natural and protected space. It has 44 species of mammals, including elephants and leopards, with one of the largest concentrations in the world. In addition, it has registered 215 species of birds, 46 species of reptiles and its coasts are visited by the five sea turtles that are in danger. Yala is a sanctuary and a must-see place for every nature lover visiting Sri Lanka.
Galle
This port city is a charming place that combines European colonial heritage with Asian influence. The Galle Fort is one of the most important attractions of the city. This fort of Dutch origin is a totally different world from the rest of the city as it is managed by the Dutch embassy. Enjoy walking along the wall and its cobblestone streets full of local shops. Following the fort you find the city lighthouse, a 26-meter-high structure and one of the relics of the British colonial period. Among other colonial jewels that we find in this port city are the Dutch church built in the 1883th century, the Dutch hospital and the clock tower and its wall built in XNUMX.
Outside the colonial space of the port you will find the Shiwa Shiwa Hindu Temple and the magnificent Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Ella
Ella is a small town in the central mountains of Sri Lanka and is known for its natural beauty. Travelers come here to walk through the tea fields, visit Little Adam's Peak for a panoramic view of the hills and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Going up to the high areas is almost mandatory since on sunny days you can see the southern lighthouses. Ella is located on the Nine Arches Brige, a magnificent bridge of colonial architecture that connects the cities of Kandy and Ella. 91 m long and 24 m high, it is an idyllic place for photographs. Furthermore, the famous tea fields and Ravana falls are perfect places to explore different landscapes of the island. If you visit the city of Kandy before or after Ella, you can take the famous train that connects both cities and will offer a privileged view of the entire mountain region.
Anuradhapura
This ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to impressive Buddhist ruins, giant stupas and ancient temples. Exploring this site is like stepping back in time to Sri Lanka's rich history. Anuradhapura is one of the oldest capitals of Sri Lanka, it was founded in the XNUMXth century BC. C and was in use until the XNUMXth century AD. C, remained one of the greatest civilizations in South Asia. The city is made up of three monasteries.
- Mahavihara is the oldest of the three monasteries and within the enclosure we find the Bodhi Tree, the oldest tree with planting date in the world and according to legend it is the offspring of the Bodhi Tree where Buddha achieved enlightenment. In addition to the impressive tree that is more than 2.000 years old, there are the Ruvanvelisaya and Thuparama stupas, the first being the largest in the complex and the second the oldest.
- Yetavanarama, the stupa was built in the 120rd century AD. C, it initially measured 70 meters, becoming the third tallest building after the two Pyramids of Egypt. It currently measures XNUMX meters high.
- Abhayagiriya, refers not only to the complex but to a fraternity of Buddhist monks that emerged in the XNUMXnd century BC. C and became an international fraternity. The temple has different buildings dedicated to the Buddhist religion.
Mirissa
It is one of the best beach areas in the south of the island. In the area you can do a multitude of water activities such as bathing or surfing, although one of the main tourist attractions in the area is whale watching. The best time to spot whales is between November and March, before high temperatures. Among the most common whales we find humpback whales and sperm whales, but the jewel is the blue whales, the largest living creature in the world and it is here, in Mirissa, where you will find one of the best places in the world for sighting this great whale. mammal.
In addition to whale watching, the quality of its waters is good for enjoying bathing on its beaches or activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling. In addition, on many beaches you will find extensive vegetation that will give a very natural character to the stay.
Hikkaduwa
Located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a popular beach destination. Its coral reefs attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world. Plus, the lively night scene and restaurant options are a big part of its appeal. It is, so to speak, the sun and beach tourist part of the entire island. Here you will find endless beaches with quality waters and surrounded by nature. Among its most iconic animals are sea turtles, which usually frequent these waters. If you want to enjoy the sun and the beach, Hikkaduwa is the perfect place to do so.
Dambulla
This destination is known for the Dambulla Temple Caves, which house an impressive collection of Buddhist statues and paintings. The caves are carved into an immense rock and are a place of worship and pilgrimage in Sri Lanka. In addition, there is this impressive collection of statues, in the same area is the Golden Temple. This temple has a statue of Buddha more than thirty meters high and an exuberant and colorful decoration. This place is a perfect complementary visit to accompany the visit to Sirigaya due to its proximity to Lion Rock.
Sri Lanka is an incredible country with a lot to offer travelers. If you are looking for an exotic destination, full of history, culture and nature, it is the perfect place. We have seen some of the reasons why you should visit Sri Lanka. From its paradisiacal beaches to its ancient temples, it has something for everyone.
At Viajes Singulares we offer you the opportunity to travel to endless destinations with the help of our professionals. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to write to us.