Page 52 - Indian Ocean 2020

Yala National Park
is famous for having
one of the highest
leopard densities in
the world

SRI LANKA

There is so much to discover in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the endless golden beaches, ancient
cities, lush tea estates, exotic curries and the friendly people.

COLOMBO & THE WEST COAST SOUTH COAST
Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo is a jarring mix of old and Sun, sea, sand – the south coast delivers countless
new, where high-rises overshadow red-tiled colonial- palm-fringed beaches. From Galle to Hambantota,
era buildings. Uncover the sights and sounds of this expect to find chic boutique hotels, sumptuous
bustling city on a tuk-tuk tour. Visit one of the most seafood, colourful coral reefs and welcoming waters.
respected temples in the country, Gangaramaya Vihara A contrast to the coastal scenery are the wetlands,
and taste the flavours of Sri Lanka at a local market. grasslands and forests of Bundala and Yala national
Nuwara Eliya South of the city are the beautiful golden sands of parks. The star attraction at Bundala is the Greater
Bentota and the laidback resort town of Kalutara. flamingo while Yala boasts the majestic leopard.

KANDY & HILL COUNTRY CULTURAL TRIANGLE
The scenic city of Kandy lies amid mist-covered hills. The Cultural Triangle spans the countryside of
See the colonial-era architecture and the Buddhist Sri Lanka. Its points are marked by the island’s
shrine, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Venture three historic capitals – Kandy, Anuradhapura and
out of Kandy and be awed by the lush landscapes of Polonnaruwa. There are many wonderful sites and
Sri Lanka’s countryside. Explore picturesque villages stunning landmarks to uncover. Take in the crumbling
set among rolling green tea plantations stretching as temples and architectural wonders of the ancient
far as the eye can see. Visit a tea estate and discover cities, marvel at the 200 metre high rock citadel of
how the aromatic Ceylon tea is grown. Sigiriya and look out for wildlife in the national parks.

52 Dambulla Cave Temple