10 INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE SRI LANKA A BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS
Sri Lanka might be one of the most underrated gems of southern Asia, which is fantastic news for you.
It's one of the last South Asian countries that hasn't become overrun with tourists. As a result, there are still plenty of hidden treasures to explore, and your friends and family are going to be exceedingly jealous when they see your photos.
Sri Lanka pays homage to its colorful past with its well-preserved ancient kingdoms, beautiful colonial architecture, verdant tea plantations, stunning displays of wildlife, and a fascinating blend of cultures.
Here are a few things you'll want to add to your Sri Lankan itinerary.
Elephant Gathering - Minneriya
Between July and October, the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world converges in Minneriya National Park.
They bring their calves and come to graze on the grasses and drink and bathe in the main lake.
Sigirya Fortress - Cultural Triangle
Sigiriya is Sri Lanka's most visited archaeological site and one of South Asia's best-preserved examples of urban planning.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to spectacular water gardens and a 1200 step climb to the palace at the top.
Whale Watching - Mirissa
In the 1970s, the Blue Whale was placed on the endangered species list.
At one point, scientists and naturalists believed they had gone extinct.
The warm waters off the southern tip of Sri Lanka are a playground for the world's largest mammal, as well as whale species.
Take a chartered excursion and spend the day spotting these majestic creatures.
Cultural Walking Tour - Jaffna
For three decades, northern Sri Lanka was caught up in a devastating civil war.
It was off-limits to tourists, until 2009 when a ceasefire was declared.
This part of the country is under traveled, but the newer generations are warm and eager to welcome travelers and share their culture, foods, and personal stories with you.
Street Food Tour - Colombo
Sri Lanka's capital is exciting, cosmopolitan, and offers fantastic street food options.
Sample Sinhala, Muslim, Tamil, and Malay cuisines, explore colorful neighborhoods and visit historic sites along the way.
Leopard Safari - Wipattu National Park
If you've been to Africa but missed seeing the elusive leopard, Sri Lanka is home to the densest population of leopards in the world.
Wilpattu National Park is also home to the sloth bear, the copper-eyed owl, the endangered star tortoise, crocodiles, and various other species.
Sri Lanka may be small compared to the cultural megalith that lies to the north.
However, with its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, colorful culture, spectacular nature displays of nature, and fascinating history, it has everything you could ever want in a holiday.
