Faraway 2024 | Page 188

SRI LANKA ~ UNESCO World Heritage Sites ~ Gorgeous beaches & growing surf scene ~ ~ National Parks & wildlife safari experiences ~ Colonial-era tea plantations ~ ~ Internationally significant rainforest ~ Warm , smiling people ~ Flavour-filled food ~

This teardrop-shaped island packs lots into its modest dimensions , from beaches and tea plantations to culture and wildlife . Its staggering beauty and welcoming people are sure to tug at your heartstrings and may even bring a tear to your own eye .
The pace of life is slow which adds to the island ’ s charm and yes , getting from A to B may take a while , but as you ’ re on holiday what ’ s the rush ?
As far as beaches go , Sri Lanka boasts undeveloped shores and romantic hideaways as well as fun sociable hubs , family-friendly sands , endless watersports and surfing hotspots .
Heritage also reigns supreme , with dozens of impressive cities , including the buzzing capital Colombo , plus spiritual sites and epic ancient monuments , particularly in the Cultural Triangle .
Sri Lanka ’ s wild side can be experienced at its many national parks while Sinharaja is Sri Lanka ’ s only remaining primeval rainforest and a biodiversity hotspot . On the island of Mannar , off the north western coast , feathered friends take centre stage , as migrant flamingos settle into the salterns , lagoons and wetlands for winter ( November-April ).
In the ocean , whale and dolphin sightings are possible from November to April in Mirissa and Kalpitya , or from March to April in Trincomalee . Sea turtles can also be seen year round in Kosgoda or Rekawa .
In the cool central highlands , the landscape of lush green tea plantations studded with brightly coloured sari-clad pickers is totally captivating . This is also your go to region for soft adventure and a colonial-era railway .
188 SRI LANKA
Temple of the Tooth , Kandy
Galle Fort visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 444