Few countries offer such a variety of beauty on such a small scale as Sri Lanka: from the ruins of ancient royal cities and mystical temples to vibrant green tea plantations, fertile rice terraces, pristine nature reserves, and, of course, breathtaking beaches.
Quite different from the northern or central regions of Sri Lanka, the island’s capital, Colombo, showcases a distinct character. Once a small fishing village, it has transformed into a thriving trade hub for spices grown on the island. As the gateway for air travel and a key hub for buses, individual travel, and train routes, Colombo serves as the starting point for any journey across Sri Lanka.
Beyond the bustling activity of a major city, Colombo offers plenty of attractions for tourists. The city features impressive buildings, temples, and a harbor, along with numerous parks and lakes that create a unique blend for travelers.
Located in the central highlands amidst tea plantations, Kandy provides visitors with a fascinating cultural and historical insight into Sri Lanka. Nestled at around 500 meters above sea level in the hills along the Mahaweli River, Kandy enjoys a pleasant climate, with an average temperature of 24°C and incredible air quality.
Kandy was the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom, which was conquered by the British in the 19th century. The city holds significant importance for Buddhism, thanks to the Temple of the Tooth – the most important Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka and a pilgrimage site. It is believed to house a tooth relic of Buddha, which is paraded through the city during processions on an elephant.
In addition to the temple, tourists can explore other attractions in Kandy. Along the main street, you’ll find various colonial buildings, such as St. Paul’s Church, which reflect the influence of the British, Dutch, and Portuguese.
The Sigiriya Rock is one of the top attractions in Sri Lanka. Known as "Lion Rock," this nearly 200-meter-high monolith is home to the ruins of an ancient rock fortress. Visitors can climb the rock via dizzying staircases and be rewarded with a stunning view from the top. The frescoes and inscriptions found along the ascent are of great historical significance, shedding light on the Sinhalese culture. In 1982, the rock was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Sri Lanka’s oldest nature reserves, Yala National Park spans approximately 1,500 square kilometers and is home to numerous species of animals and birds. The park is particularly renowned for its large leopard population. Visitors may also encounter elephants, sloth bears, and jackals. Among the most notable bird species are the Malabar pied hornbill and painted stork.
The park also contains several temple ruins on the way to the pilgrimage town of Kataragama, located north of the park. Tourists may only enter the park with a local guide, and the city of Tissamaharama serves as the starting point for safaris. The best time to visit is from December to May.
Located in the south of the island, Bundala National Park covers 62 square kilometers and offers an equally impressive array of flora and fauna. A highlight of this park is a herd of elephants, numbering between 25 and 60, depending on the season. Lucky visitors might also spot various monkey species, turtles, crocodiles, or giant squirrels.
Unlike Yala National Park, Bundala does not offer overnight accommodations, so visitors need to book hotels outside the park.
Nestled between Galle and Matara, in a small village, lies the crescent-shaped Mirissa Beach. It attracts surfers from around the world who come to enjoy its excellent waves. In addition to surfers, divers and those seeking relaxation also spend a few days of their holidays here.
For those interested in dolphins or blue whales, Mirissa offers numerous sea excursions. The best time for whale watching is between November and April. The village itself features accommodations of all kinds, from resorts offering Ayurveda treatments to simple backpacker lodgings.
Alongside India and Nepal, Sri Lanka is a key destination for Ayurvedic treatments. Ayurveda is taught at universities on the island, which has led to a large number of hotels offering treatments. Ayurveda is a holistic therapy focused on cleansing the mind and body. Key elements include massages, nutrition, yoga, and herbal medicine. Hotels offering these treatments often design their meals according to Ayurvedic principles.
Accommodations vary greatly, from small, family-run hotels to large luxury resorts. What they all share is harmony with the surrounding landscape and nature.
Thalkote Lake
The picturesque Thalkote Lake in Sigiriya is perfect for a cycling tour, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. From here, you can enjoy excellent views of Lion Rock and the tropical landscape. Fishing is possible at the lake – though caution is advised, as crocodiles may inhabit the waters. Alternatively, you can visit the safer Kayanwela bathing lake, located closer to town.
My passion for traveling and my worldwide contacts allow me to create a tailor-made offer for you. I look forward to fulfilling your travel wishes.
Bernhard Grütter
Director Bucher Reisen
Bernhard Grütter
Director Bucher Reisen
