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10 Reasons to Say ‘YES’ to a Sri Lanka Trip

A Sri Lanka trip is exciting, adventurous, and inspiring. But what makes a Sri Lanka holiday unique? Here are 10 reasons why Sri Lanka tours are unlike any other.

Stunning Coasts and Beaches

Sri Lanka has a beach for everyone, regardless of their preference. Choose from secluded getaways, sociable beach party spots, tranquil villas besides blue waters, or surfing towns to ride waves, based on your aspirations for an ideal tropical vacation. With each coastal town offering a unique experience that differs not just in ambience but also in terms of the activities on offer, you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. 

Adrenaline Rush inducing Adventure Sports

The captivating coast of Arugam Bay is a well-known surfer’s paradise. Other surfing hotspots in Sri Lanka include Koggala, Ahangama, Balapitiya, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Weligama. 

Head to Bentota, Pigeon Island in Trincomalee, Kalpitiya, or Negombo to try your hand at water sports such as jet skiing, diving, snorkelling, kayaking, and fishing, among others. Experience other adventure sports such as waterfall and rock climbing, abseiling, sky diving, whitewater rafting, and more around the central regions of the island.

Exotic Wildlife

Home to some of the rare species in the world, the little island of Sri Lanka is known for its biodiversity. Leopards, sloth bears, Sri Lankan elephants, sperm whales, blue whales, and five species of endangered turtle can be spotted here in relatively high densities. 

Safari and camp in over 22 national parks, each with its distinct flora, fauna, and endemic species. Sri Lankan wildlife safaris can also culminate in luxury glamping experiences for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds. 

Diverse Culture

Sri Lanka is home to a fusion of multiple ethnicities. Owing to its colonial history, Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences can be observed in its architecture. No matter when you plan your trip to Sri Lanka, there’s bound to be a cultural holiday. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Kandy Perahara, Vesak, Nallur Kovil Festival, and Kataragama festival are celebrated locally. 

Experience new ways of life and culinary specialties in each city or town you travel to.

Rich History

The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, showcases a rich history of over 2,500 years. Numerous cultural sites dating back to the days of kings are now listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These structures are adorned with ancient art and murals, vivid woodwork, stonework, and insightful scriptures. A trip to Sri Lanka isn’t just about experiencing its beautiful sights but also appreciating its fascinating cultural, classical, and historic background.

Diverse Landscapes

From the mountains in Haputale to the safaris in Yala and the beaches along the coast, Sri Lanka is one of the most diverse countries in terms of its landscape. Especially because the sites and scenes seem to change within just a few hours of a drive. Conquer the Ella Rock or the Knuckles mountain range, relish the misty panoramic views and feel a tingle down your spine at the ‘Great World’s End Drop.’ Meander through the narrow trails of tea plantations or gaze at the spectacularly picturesque waterfalls of the region. You could also enjoy a hike through the Sinharaja Rainforest – a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Sri Lankan Curries

Sri Lankan food is on a league of its own; spicy, coconutty, and irresistibly fragrant, a plate of Sri Lankan rice and curry is a quintessential part of the Sri Lankan identity. Enjoy local flavours and dishes such as hoppers, wade, kottu roti, ‘del’ or breadfruit curry, ‘polos’ or jackfruit curry, and ‘ambulthiyal’ or sour fish curry, chased by copious cups of world-renowned Ceylon tea. 

People

All cultures of Sri Lanka are based upon the foundations of hospitality. ‘Ayubowan’ in Sinhala and ‘Vanakkam’ in Tamil are classic Sri Lankan greetings. This greeting, accompanied by the gesture of pressing the palms together, holding them under the chin and in front of the chest with a slight nod of the head, loosely translates to “may you be blessed with long life”. No matter where you go during your Sri Lanka tour, you’re sure to encounter friendly smiles and helpful people.

Yoga and Ayurveda

Whether you are in a bustling city or secluded town, relaxation is essential. What’s a Sri Lanka trip without a soothing spa session? 

While ‘Ulpotha,’ located in a jungle heartland beside a lotus ringed lake, is known to offer one of the best yoga retreats in the world, the island is interspersed with Ayurveda resorts, spas, and wellness centres that specialize in treating the mind, body, and spirit.

Affordable Luxury 

Spoil yourselves with the extravagant services and plush accommodation offered by affordable luxury resorts in Sri Lanka, strategically located in close vicinity to tourist hotspots. Experience luxuries complete with infinity pools, Jacuzzis, candle-lit dinners, hot air balloon rides, and much more. The modern hotels in the city of Colombo are close to eventful nightlife hubs and contain their own entertainment and dining options. Most Sri Lankan resorts and villas are sustainably developed and seamlessly fuse luxurious spaces with the locality’s natural environment. 

Say ‘YES!’ to a Sri Lanka Trip 

These are only 10 reasons why you should be planning your vacation in Sri Lanka. Visit Sri Lanka to discover more reasons to holiday here. Let our travel experts assist you with the itinerary planning. Get in touch with us for more details.

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Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Wonder of Asia

We are here to brighten your Sri Lanka tour itinerary, ensuring that your trip to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka is one that is truly memorable. That being said, this blog is to give you a peep into one of the most magical sites of the island; none other than the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress. 

A truly majestic wonder that is home to one of the most astounding histories of the tiny island calls out to be explored. Once, long ago this archaeological monument was home to King Kashypa who on top of this gracious rock, erected his castle and adorned with strikingly beautiful frescoes. After King Kashyapa, dynasties rose and fell, their fortunes shaped by internal power struggles and conflicts between native Sinhalese and outside invaders from India.

A Buddhist monastery was founded at Sigiriya rock fortification in the third century BCE and so far, thirty cave-shelters with drip-ledges that is believed to have been home to monks have been located near the base of the huge rock. Details of donations to cave shelters have been engraved in Brahmi script on eight of them, giving visitors an insight into the vast and mysterious history of ancient Ceylon and the majestic kingdom of Sigiriya. Following King Kashyapa’s dynasty, by the 6th and 7th century A.D., Sigiriya had lost its political status and had once again become the home of Buddhist monks. During this time, the cave-shelters with drip-ledges from the previous monastic epoch were improved. Additional shrines were built, including a stupa, image house, and bodhi tree shrine. This second stage of monastery growth lasted until the 12th and 13th centuries A.D.

At present day, the historical Sigiriya stands proudly as a UNESCO world heritage site; located in the northern Matale District of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, near the town of Dambulla and has proudly taken its place as the 8th wonder of the world. 

Head towards the picturesque small town that yet beholds one of the grandest sites in the country and be amazed by all the mysteries it has to offer. The ruins of the ancient capital lie at the summit of the rock, renowned as the Lion’s rock, dominating the luscious green town. 

As you step foot on the enthralling site, the extensive collection of fortifications, vast gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains are surely set to mesmerise you alongside the truly unique harmony between the nature and human imagination that it exuberates. The main entrance is located in the northern side of the rock, intended in the form of a huge stone lion, whose feet have survived up to date, giving evidence to the intricate architectural efforts put into the designing of the ancient kingdom. The Western wall on the other hand is sure to capture your eyes with its many frescoes painted each depicting a story of its own. The enthralling frescoes that depict paintings of nude females are considered to be either the portraits of the king’s wives and concubines or priestess performing religious rituals. Despite the unknown identity of the females depicted in the frescoes, these unique ancient paintings are celebrating female beauty and have incredible historical significance. Another substantial feature of the monument is the famous mirror wall, painted inscriptions and poems written by the visitors of Sigiriya. Take a peep at it on your way to the very top of the rock and get lost among the riveting history the mysterious Sigiriya has to offer. 

Visitors to Sigiriya are treated to magnificent buildings rooted in history and culture. But there’s a lot more to the remains of the old Lion Rock fortress than meets the eye. If you’re interested in learning more, a top by the Sigiriya Museum is a must. 

Apart from visiting the renowned Lion’s rock, there are abundant other activities that you could enjoy during your stay in Sigiriya from visiting the local handicraft shops that surround the site to participating in sacred ‘Pansil’ ceremonies, enjoying delectable local meals and taking in the serene beauty of the tranquil town by either a long stroll or exciting cycle ride around the historical monument of Sigiriya. Visit the secluded sunset royal cave known famously as Pidurangala; an ancient Buddhist monastery and learn of the mysterious history of Ceylon and enjoy a serene lunch or dinner by the Kandalama Reservoir. Created by kings of long-gone times in order to provide water for farming irrigation, the location is the ideal intimate gate away.

Sigiriya is also known for its breath-taking sceneries and local village life. So, it is only right that you visit a local paddy field and interact with the farmers, even enjoy a delectable meal with them, in your Sri Lanka Trip. Friendly smiles and chitter chatter!  

At night, you can also enjoy a serene candle lit dinner by the Kandalama Reservoir. Created by kings of long-gone times in order to provide water for farming irrigation, the location is the ideal intimate gate away. Thriving in biodiversity, Sigiriya is also renowned as a home to the famous night loris. The nature trail at Sigiriya appears to be the most reliable spot in the country for watching these elusive creatures, where several loris have been recorded and sightings can be obtained on almost every night. So, get your night lights and gear on and be on the lookout. 

Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment and get lost in a blissful haven as you enjoy a series of signature ayurvedic spa treatments. Ayurveda: the science of life’ is an ancient, holistic form of healing that promotes total wellbeing and harmony within you in balance with nature and the environment. With knowledge honed over thousands of years, it is a practice that considers your whole being and emphasises on the prevention rather than cure of symptoms. At the blissful town of Sigiriya, you can partake on a spiritual cleansing by visiting one of the many Ayurveda Spas that surround the tranquil haven. Here, you will be under the care of highly qualified Ayurvedic Physicians who will spend time in consultation to evaluate your physical health and understand your individual needs prior to prescribing treatments or packages best suited to you.

During your trip to Sigiriya you can also visit the truly serene town of Dambulla and step into the midst of the famous Dambulla cave temple. A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, the Dambulla cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka, and explore them in your Sri Lanka Itinerary. The Buddhist mural paintings and 157 statues that the cave is home to are sure to leave you amazed!

Enjoy your stay at one of the many luxury villas that encapsulate the beauty of Sigiriya and explore the mouth-watering local flavours. Treat yourself to the tongue-tangling local cuisine and even enjoy a meal by the lushes’ paddy fields of the city.

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The ideal tour package to spend a 04-days holiday in Sri Lanka

We at Olanka have put together a guide curating the perfect four-day holiday package in the beautiful tropical island of Sri Lanka. Our travel packages include escorted tours that guarantee a truly memorable holiday experience and tailor-made tour packages for families as well as honeymooners on the lookout for the best Sri Lanka holiday packages for the year 2021.

Day 01:

Head towards an ancient kingdom and capital – the city of Kandy on your very first day and explore the historic landscape, brimming with fascinating stories, culturally significant landmarks, and old-world charm. A Sri Lanka family tour package is not completed without a visit to this magnificent city.

Make a morning visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as the Dalada Maligawa, which houses the relic of the tooth of Lord Buddha. Located in the heart of the town surrounded by the glistening Kandy Lake also known as ‘Kiri Muhuda’ or the Sea of Milk, the temple was once the royal palace inhabited by the king of Ceylon and his consorts during the Kandyan kingdom. After the end of the Kandyan Kingdom, the palace was transformed into a Buddhist temple that holds the sacred relic.

Thereafter, enjoy a delectable lunch by the lake, seasoned with authentic Sri Lankan spices and flavours. Head back to the temple in the evening to witness the magical cultural show complete with Kandyan dancing, Sri Lanka’s iconic art form which includes elaborate costumes and loud drumming.

Soak in the culture of the beautiful Kandy and stay at one of the best hotels or villas that surround the city. Kandy is known for its beautiful villas and hotel rooms that could be booked at affordable prices.

Day 02:

Having explored the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, the next destination in your Sri Lanka holiday package is Bentota. Next morning, you will wake up in this beautiful beach enjoying cold salty breeze of the Indian ocean. The area is renowned for its beautiful tropical beaches, surf waves, and vibrant bars and restaurants. Enjoy the coast, bask in the sun, and soak in the warm waters, before you resort to a stiff drink by the beach.

On the way to Bentota, you can stop by the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which is an institute dedicated to the protection and safeguarding of sea turtles that visit our paradise isle for nesting. The hatcheries around the island also home to injured, wounded, and sick turtles. The best part is that you can witness these efforts and get first-hand experience at caring for these reptiles by helping out at the hatchery.

Relax in the morning and head towards the beach in the evening where you can enjoy one of many exciting water sports. You can also explore the beautiful Bentota by kayaking along rich mangrove forests where bird life thrives.

Stay at one of the best hotels in the Bentota town; Both Bentota Beach by Cinnamon and Vivanta by Taj are close contenders. Their renewed living spaces, fine restaurants, lively bars, and relaxing spas are guaranteed to show you a good time with views of the Indian Ocean.

Day 03:

After breakfast, go on an art tour of Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka’s art hub, and explore iconic Sri Lankan arts and crafts, including batik, puppetry, and mask-making, or head towards the beautiful Brief Garden by Bevis Bawa.

Located ten kilometres inland from Bentota, Brief Garden is the legendary garden and country home of Bevis Bawa and is the landscape that inspired his brother, world-renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa to create Lunuganga. The garden, which has been open to the public since 1970, resembles a magical place from a fantasy novel and presents a wonderful space in which to lose yourself for a few hours.

After this exploration, head towards the capital city of Colombo where you will spend the rest of your holiday getaway. Enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 04:

After a good night’s rest, day-four calls for a fun city tour around the bustling city of Colombo. Colombo is the heart of the beautiful island boasting an array of fun activities. Set off on a stroll along the bustling roads of Pettah also known as a ‘one-stop-shop’ where the loud chatter of shop keepers and locals bargaining will keep you on your toes; Visit the National Museum for an introduction to local history; Head down narrow streets, past monuments, and into some of the city’s most significant spots, and do what the locals do —travel by tuk-tuk or stroll along the streets of Colombo as you take in the city’s commercial heritage and observe influences from the times of the Portuguese, Dutch and English.

Now it is time to conclude the Sri Lanka Travel Package and the ideal place to do it is the financial capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo comes alive at night. Start with a meal at Park Street Mews and unwind to its live music, head to Love Bar for some interesting cocktails, and dance the night away at R&B – all in the same evening. Alternatively, spend the evening at the Dutch Hospital Entertainment Precinct. The oldest building in the Colombo fort, the hospital was built by the Dutch and was only used to treat Dutch patients. Now it is an area with shops and restaurants. Watch as it comes to life at night with all-night music, dancing, and delectable food. These Sri Lanka holiday packages are famous among both foreign and local travellers alike.