Sri Lanka is an island of
enormous diversity which
is sure to reward you with
many delightful experiences.
Whether you are looking
to immerse yourself in the
island's fascinating history,
learn about the tea industry,
watch for wildlife or relax at
a beach resort, you can find
them all here.
Historical Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a long and rich history with
many well preserved sites across the island.
Lion’s Rock Fortress in Sigiriya was built
by King Kasyapa in the 5th century and is
perched precariously atop a sheer-sided
rock that rises abruptly from the surrounding
plain. Nearby is the Dambulla Rock Temple
built in the 3rd century BC, which has five
caves containing numerous statues and
paintings of Buddha. Also visit the Temple
of the Tooth in Kandy which is said to hold
a tooth from Buddha that was rescued from
his funeral pyre.
National Parks
One of the most important national
parks in Sri Lanka is at Yala on the south
coast. This reserve is noted both for its
elephant population and also having
one of the highest concentrations of
leopards in the world. Also look out
for spotted deer, wild boar, crocodiles,
water buffalo and monkeys. Nearby
is Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
which specialises in elephant welfare
and conservation including caring for
orphaned animals.
At Sinharaja Forest Reserve a small
part of the virgin rainforest has been
preserved. This is an important biosphere
reserve that protects the endemic
species and the original vegetation.
Nuwara Eliya
This town in the hill country is
sometimes referred to as Sri Lanka’s
Little England. It is here that the British
could relax in the temperate climate
and create a piece of home, with many
of the original colonial buildings still
remaining today.
Nuwara Eliya is the centre of the tea
industry in Sri Lanka and to discover
more visit a tea plantation and factory.
Beach Stays
As an island, Sri Lanka offers a lot of
opportunity for staying by the sea.
There are numerous sandy shores and
also the opportunity to combine with
other activities.
At Bentota you can explore the wetlands
and mangroves, while in Galle you can
discover the historical Dutch Fort and
maybe see the famous stilt fishermen.
But we understand if you just want to
relax on the beach.
Download the ASIA Inspirations brochure in PDF format