Sri Lanka Attractions

Tourists immediately recognize Negombo as the Katunayake International airport where they arrive is very close. Better known as the little Rome of Sri Lanka, this western port is reputed for the aggressive fishing activities that take place and the many varieties of fish, canals and a lagoon with rich bio-diverse characteristics.

Bu the fish market in the town gets the pride among others. It is a bustling activity and as a tourist it shouldn’t disturb because it goes on and on regardless. The hub is by the side of the Dutch Gate and it is the second largest in the country. Do bear with the smell of fish and the fisher folk’s attire, noise and lingo, for that is their unique disposition. It is an exposure no doubt.

Hundreds of fishing boats of all types keep berthing in with the day’s catch and buyers try and bargain for value for money. The local community are well informed of the variety and quality of the fish. Along with you will find wholesalers from other areas beside small time vendors too negotiating their lot. So, it is a hive of marketing in every respect.
This also goes to say that the hotels and eateries are full of seafood menus. The lagoon also yields tasty kinds of fish and aqua-species and are served on the tables such as the tiger shrimp, prawn, lobster & crab. The range of both sea and lagoon fish includes herring, giant tuna, sea bass, barracuda, skipjack, mackerel, salmon, mullet, swordfish,  sailfish, shark as well as squid (calamari), cuttlefish and much more delectable kinds.

The beach obviously is a place to view the fishing boats (Oruwa’s) and trawlers moving out and in which is a great sight. And then there is for the tourists especially a boat trip along the canal and the mangroves that are full of water-life such as monitor lizards and also the numerous big and small birds. The March known as Muthurajawela is now a research field for marine and aqua biologists for its rare species of water plants.

The last bastion to be conquered by the British, Kandy is known as the hill capital of Sri Lanka. Culturally, the city boasts of a blend of British legendary and Sinhala heritage. The English did establish many institutes such as the Schools and Churches etching their imprints of language, culture and lifestyles that could be noticed even today. Hence, for a tourist it would sound familiar when meandering about and communicating with the local folk.

Besides, the aforementioned famed Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy has many attractions in and around. The Kandy Lake right in the middle is a cynosure. It was built by one of the kings and is preserved by the City Lords and kept clean somewhat. This artificial lake gives the landscape an enviable attraction often found in all tourism related photos in magazines and souvenirs. It serves as the Landmark for Kandy along with the Dalada Maligawa, the Temple which is within a few meters away from the lake.

Kandy is also famous for many tourist hotspots serving as a transit to other sites. For instance, it is an ideal stopover on your way from say Dambulla, Sigiriya or Matale to proceed towards Nuwara Eliya or while returning from the hills to the lowlands. But on the outskirt of the City is the famous botanical garden that cannot be missed. The night can be spent at the star hotels and guest houses around the lake or up on the hills with panoramic views. Also do not miss the entertainment shows staging Kandyan dancers and drummers, the traditional taste.

At 257km Northeast of Colombo is the Eastern Port city Trincomalee, known for its natural deep-water harbor, one of world’s finest and therefore cargo ships often berth if coming from far east prior to sailing towards Colombo. The name is a derivation of the Tamil term a Hindu Deity Koneshwarar and its abode on a hillock. However, the city’s beaches are reputed for tourist enchantment especially, Nilaveli, Uppuveli and the Pigeon Island.  Star Class Tourist Hotels thrive along the long coast and activities such as diving, snorkeling and swimming fill the day for a visitor.

Being a strategic harbor due to the secluded natural setting, all three military camps namely, Air Force, Navy and the Army are consolidated for any eventuality. Moreover, many places of Buddhist archaeological and cultural sites too are there to reminisce the past eras and corresponding folk life.  Additionally many other Hindu Temples and Churches (Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal and free Churches) make the society strongly religious. Portuguese, Dutch and British semblance is still present due to the colonial reigns. Hence, a cultural mix or blend of these countries can be seen in many forms along with the native Sinhala or Tamil races. The Burghers who are either Euro or British mix of the Sri Lankans too are in sizable number. Apart, Muslim communities most of whom are businessmen are concentrated in some sections and the minarets of the mosques will point as landmarks.

For a pastime, Tricomalee ids the hotspot now for whale and dolphin which is a prominent component of tourism and for local visitors as well. Yet another popular visiting spot is where 7 hot water springs are i.e. at Kinniya.   Hundreds of people from all over line up to have a bath as they believe that the water has therapeutic effect. Also it is found that the temperature varies from well to well.
It is indeed a must visit place as the town and particularly the natural harbor played a vital defensive port during the World War II for the British and allied forces as against the Japanese.

Jaffna, the city of Palmyra as it is identified is at the Northern peninsula of Sri Lanka that has much historical significance but the 30 year war diminished its prominence as a tourist region. Nevertheless, now that there is peace prevailing and transport renewed with new train and bus services plying, many have begun their site seeing tours. Those who remember the important and popular places are encouraged with a revived enthusiasm. The name Jaffna is derived from a famous poet or singer who played the oriental instrument ‘Yarl’ which is something like a harp.

Sadly, Asia’s best library was damaged during the conflict but yet a new and refurbished building stirs much interest now. Jaffna is also synonymous with the tastiest Mango variety called ‘Karuththa Kolumban” which is really delicious and sweet due to the saline soil they say. There are many star hotels operating to cater to the ever growing visitors. It is worth going around witnessing how normalcy is restored and lives come to terms with a rehabilitating process and trade interactions. Schools, hospitals and shopping complexes are back to proactive functions.

The culture of the folk is predominantly based on Hinduism although Christian Missionaries established many Churches, Schools and Missions during their heydays. The Jaffna fort remains as an edifice. The legacy of colonialism is very visible blending with the local society. Many from the region have migrated or domiciled for a long period in the Europe. The US and Australia and hence, there is a kind of cultural transfer between them and their kin remaining in the homeland.

A direct luxury express train form Colombo gives a pleasant experience all the way to and fro apart from private tour coaches. A visit to the Northern capital is a unique and different experience indeed.

The Island of Sri Lanka has virtually blessed with many golden beaches around it. Yet, particularly some are developed to cater to the tourist’s leisure activities and relaxation. Here we give a few which are notably full of activities other than for fishing and whale watching tours.

Let us start with Bentota, down from Colombo about 68km along the coast, is one of the firsts to promote beach activities like surfing and boat rides. The location is bright and sandy, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Vendors with locally made crafts and clothes are seen to tout at lesser price than that is found in the beach front hotels and boutiques. Below Bentota towards South is the sporty Hikkaduwa beach where sport activities thrive beside coral diving and surfing. Beach Rugby and Volley Ball are the prime sport attraction during the seasons. It is also one most romantic beach getaway in Sri Lanka. Be assured of resorts and hotels of international standards.

If looking for Scuba diving, surfing and authentic Sri Lankan Sea food all in one package then it is Unawatuna, further down South form the above two places mentioned. It is one of those revived after the Tsunami disaster. And then there is the Southernmost point of the Island namely Dickwella which is 22km form the Matara City. It is a long sandy beach over there secluded by headlands, coral reefs and also sand-bars, making it safer for swimming and snorkeling. Besides, it is only from that point, one can view the sunrise in the morning as well as sunset in the evening.

Equally fascinating beach is the Arugam Bay on the south east coast which is popular for windsurfing and other activities. Further up in Batticaloa, we have Kalkudah and Pasikuda shallow beaches with calm waters, ideal for sea-baths.  Tricomalee on the direct East of Colombo is famous for many reasons but it also has popular resorts and beaches. One is Nilaveli, a wide stretch of sandy shore for swimming and relaxing especially as the sun goes to the opposite side.
The north is slowly but surely regaining its past from the war stricken times when the allure of Casuarina beach at Karainagar (Delft) and the Kilali beach where both are receiving tourists in growing rates. They should attract many in the near future.

Being a very religious nation hosting the major ones such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam, comes to life during many seasons that are attributed to religious festivals. Each religion has its peculiar but prominent days of celebrations and they are mutually respected by one another, the government also recognising the importance granting holidays in view of those. Although celebrated islandwide certain cities become the centre of focus during those festive days. Kandy becomes hyperactive during the Perahera pageant which is a cultural cum religious festival that runs for more than 10 days. It depicts the Kandyan Kingdom culture with dances, drums and even ‘Nilames’ (resembling chieftains of the past) with typical costumes. This draws a mammoth crowd of onlookers every year.

The Hindus too have their hotspots in and around important temples in some cities like Trincomalee, Jaffna and Chilaw. Christians generally celebrate Christmas in a month long festivity but the Roman Catholics have their annual feasts in most cities. Madhu, Tewatte, Kochchikade (near Colombo Fort) are some of the places for Catholics where many pilgrims too attend annually. The Muslims although quite a segment of the population, do not hold special events at specified location but do celebrate their festivals at large.

There are other pilgrim days such as the Adam’s Peak season when thousands climb this supposedly sacred mountain among the hills in the upcountry form where also the mouth of the longest river Mahaveli Ganga is found. Kataragama is another place for festival or pilgrimage where both Buddhists and Hindus visit to make vows to their deities.

Artefacts, antiques and souvenirs that have historical and sentimental values are preserved in museums all over the world. Sri Lanka too has endeavoured to preserve those under the purview of the Governmental authorities. These are not private collections. The Colombo National Museum is in Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7 i.e. in the Metro’s centre. National Heritage items and articles are found in here. The science section features plants and animals that are extinct or endangered plus geological rocks.

Down in the Southern City of Galle, it is mainly or in fact totally related to the Dutch period architecture and lifestyle. The Hollanders have left such an indelible footprint of their culture, religion, pottery, instruments and infrastructure not only in Galle but around the Island, it was necessary for the government to establish this museum. Galle also is the home for the Maritime Museum, which was refurbished after the disaster caused by Tsunami with the assistance of the Government of Holland.

The Kandy museum leverages the past and the last Sinhalese Royalty and the kingdom Words do not suffice to elaborate but in gist, it is an exposition of lifestyles and culture that existed during that era (17th -19th C). If one has to have a vivid picture of the pre British and colonial days of Sri Lanka, this is the spot to be and spend a few hours. It boasts about 5000 exhibits of yore.

Apart, there are a few other cities that have important collections for tourists who have a flair for historical evidence of many aspects such as the Anuradhapura Folk Museum and the Hoods Tower Museum of Naval artillery in Trincomalee. Both these are of immense importance in history hand have interesting stories behind them.

Being an Island in the Indian Ocean Sri Lanka possesses some of the most beautiful coastal cities around. And Dolphins and Whales of kinds that are not easily spotted elsewhere show up. Tricomalee in the East, Galle in the South and Kalpitiya in the North West coast are the three main places noted for watching these sea creatures. However, each spot has its season for these marine kinds come at particular climes only. Also Blue Whales do not move in collective groups unlike the Sperm Whales except for food. Calves are seen with the mothers off Galle that is Mirissa to be precise. This is a very popular  whale watching haunt especially during September and April.

Come May and till October it is the ideal season for Whale and Dolphin watching off the Trincomalee coast. Here too it is the opportunity to observe Blue and Sperm whales and of course the delightful dolphins and you are assured a lifetime treat. The Blue whales enjoy the month of July the most it seems. The port is 250+ km from Colombo.

The Dolphin lovers have an exclusive and exceptional chance of experiencing them at close ranges while they are up to their antics. They gather in thousands at the Kalpitiya coastal habitat. You could see them alongside the boat or even crouching under it. The observation trips are facilitated by boats into the sea. In fact a long length of the coast is now nicknamed the ‘Dolphin Line’ SO much is the invasion of these friendly marine kinds. The typical season is between November and March or even till April for the sea is relatively calm and is safe for boat rides. The varieties of dolphins found here are Spinner (mostly), Bottlenose, Risso, Humpback etc. So, cameras and video cams are vital equipment to retain the adventurous experiences pictorially. The boats are doctored for safe and comfortable excursions.

Ceylon Tea as it has been known for centuries is supposed to be the best in the field of natural beverages. Sri Lanka was called Ceylon prior to the 70’s but the Tea industry retains the name Ceylon as the world over it is popularly recognised thus. Nuwara Eliya the main city that is nestled among the lush, green Tea Estates or fields is known as the Tea Kingdom. Little over 66 Km from Kandy, it is the region for the best of Tea. It also enjoys low temperature with frost and mist covering a good part of the year and therefore many flock there for holidays to escape the humid hot climes of the lowlands of Sri Lanka.

Many tourist star hotels are built and have been enjoying the flux of tourists for many years.  As you approach the city from Kandy and almost 6 km from it there is Labookele Tea factory where a demonstration of the processing of Tea is shown especially to the foreign visitors. But the locals too are keen to be educated for, not many live up the hills and are therefore ignorant of this mechanism. .

Travelling up from Kandy is a delightful experience as the winding roads take you amid the green carpet of Tea Shrubs that are well groomed. It is pleasant and therapeutic to the eyes and mind as well. On a good day one could spot the puckers as they are called, busy gleaning the tender leaves since that is what makes the cup of Tea so tasty and rejuvenating. So, make a worthy visit and include as a priority in the itinerary while visiting Sri Lanka. Te ideal period would be between March and April to enjoy the most.

Travel from Colombo 123 km along the coast to Galle the southern capital of Sri Lanka where you get the world heritage site, a Dutch Fort. It is one of the best preserved forts in South Asia which is built on an extent of 90 hectare. However the fortification was originally constructed by the Portuguese and then captured by the invaders from Holland.  Hence, semblance of the both countries are to be found within, the architecture and style of inscriptions which are definitely a tinge of the European. Even the road infrastructure, verandas of the houses and the sewage systems depict those styles.

Today, even the locals are proud of its heritage and one could see hundreds of tourists thronging to enjoy the panoramic view of the Indian Ocean from the inner fortress bunds availing the breeze as well as the sun, not to mention the lighthouse that is as old as the fort. Perhaps that was the most strategic reinforcement to protect the Southern Sri Lanka in times of wars and piracy.

In fact, the city Galle itself boasts about the inherited colonial lifestyles and culture. Clothes to Churches to houses and buildings speak of the historical values that are cherished. There is no event be it cultural, religious, sports and literature held without a stress on this exciting segment of the city called the Dutch Fort.