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Few countries offer tourists as much as this Indian
Ocean island nation, and at such reasonable prices.
An idyllic vacation in a tropical paradise is within
the range of nearly any traveler.
While there are luxurious accommodations all around
the island, the nation has hardly begun to develop
the infrastructure to fully exploit its tourism
potential.
Here’s just a sample of what awaits tourists
to Sri Lanka:
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| Wildlife is just one aspect
of Sri Lanka enjoyed by tourists. |
| Photo by James Overly |
Beaches and water sports
Miles and miles of unspoiled, broad, white sand
beaches are virtually unused and await tourism development.
Some of the world’s best scuba diving, surfing,
and windsurfing await the water sports enthusiast.
Mountains
The central southern part of the country is mountainous,
with a temperate climate. The country is laced with
103 rivers and many waterfalls. Hiking, bicycling,
and white water rafting are available here.
Wildlife
The numerous national parks dot the island are
home to hundreds of animal species, some found only
in Sri Lanka. One can see elephants, bears, leopards,
wild buffaloes, wild boars, the sambhur, crocodiles,
and a wide variety of birds await watchers.
Tea
One of Sri Lanka’s main exports continues
to be tea, grown in the central highlands of the
country. Many exotic varieties of tea are available
for the connoisseur to sample.
Archeology and religion
Sri Lanka’s civilization is 2,500 years old,
and archeological remains dot the islands. Four
UNESCO World Heritage sites include ruins near the
country’s first two capitals, Anuradapura and
Polonnaruwa. Important Buddhist temples, Hindu shrines
and mosques are everywhere. Adam’s Peak, the
tallest peak, is a mountain revered by Buddhists,
Hindus and Muslims and Christians.
Shopping
Sri Lanka is the gemstone capital of the world. Many
of the famous apparel brands sold in the U.S. are
made in Sri Lanka, and are available here for a few
dollars. Beautiful handmade batik items are sold cheaply. |
