Sri Lanka's most famous foreign resident, science fiction writer, Sir Arthur C. Clarke, once wrote that it was " a small universe; it contains as many variations of culture, scenery and climate as some countries a dozen times its size." With vast plantations of tea and spices, floristically rich forests, stunning beaches, important archaeological sites and amazing bird and animal life, it truly is a magically varied place. There's also the mix of Portuguese, Dutch, British colonial and indigenous cultures evidenced everywhere from its architecture through to its fabulous food.
In the costal town of Galle, the Dutch presence is still visible, especially in its well-preserved Dutch 'Star' fort and its Reformed Church hosting the gravestones of Dutch invaders. They also still make Dutch lace. Galle is also home to the beautiful Unawatuna Bay, where the sea is reef protected.
Ancient Sri Lanka is best represented at the country's first capital, Anuradhapura ruled for over 1000 years from 380BC by Sinhalese kings. The Sacred Bo-Tree is the city's holiest site, and was, according to legend, grown from the tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. The Thuparama Dagoba, the oldest of the many temples in Anuradhapura, is also believed to contain the right collar-bone of Buddha.
With something magical for everyone, Sri Lanka certainly earns the title 'Pearl of the Orient' given to it by Winston Churchill.
Top accommodation
- 01. Amangalla
- 02. Ceylon Tea Trails
- 03. Amanwella
- 04. The Dutch House
- 05. The Fortress
