In Sri Lanka, cricket is the ultimate passion which draws all the Sri Lankans together irrespective of caste, race and creed.
As the
T20 World Cup gathers momentum, from crowded living rooms to roadside tea stalls, the island will pause for the much talked about India vs Pakistan match on Sunday in Colombo.
On the sidelines, tourists flocking to
Sri Lanka for their love of cricket can also explore these marvels that reside in the teardrop island.
With a history expanding over 3,000 years, Sri Lanka holds some of world’s ancient cities including Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Digamadulla.
Their once glorious townships, palaces, temples, monasteries, hospitals and theaters intricately carved and modeled out of stone lay and abandoned and forgotten with time amidst the soaring jungles.
The bustling capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo is where the match will be played. Colombo represents a mix of cultural history seeped in old-world mansions and modern edifices in the form of markets, malls, beachfront shacks and fine dining restaurants.
Currently,
Sri Lanka is experiencing generally warm, dry and cloudy conditions, with temperatures in coastal cities like Colombo ranging from 25°C to 30°C.
While early February is considered part of the peak, dry, and sunny season, weather patterns can vary, with light rain expected in some areas towards the middle of the month.
Key places to explore in Colombo
National Museum of Colombo
It is the largest national museum. Set up in 1877, the museum boasts of Italian-style architecture and houses collections that talk of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Viharamahadevi Park
Centrally located, the colonial-era Viharamahadevi Park is the oldest public park in Colombo and features a gold statute of Buddha along with fountains and a mini zoo.
Gangaramaya Temple
Set up in the late 19th century, Gangaramaya Temple is a Buddhist temple that displays a unique blend of architecture inspired by Sri Lankan, Indian and Thai culture.
The Fort Area
The Fort Area is seated in the central business district and the vicinity is peppered with colonial-era buildings of political importance along with commercial outlets.
Kapikaawatha Shivan Temple
Kapikaawatha Shivan
Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo dating back to 1738. It affords traditional architecture with statutes of deities along with stone sculptures and carvings.
Watch the Sunset at Gall Face Green
Spanning five hectares along the ocean, Gall Face Green is dotted with roadside eateries serving local food. It is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Explore Galle Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort was built by the Portuguese and later modified by the Dutch. It has historic archaeological and architectural significance.
Best food places
Seafood and Sri Lanka, go hand in hand. While on a visit, the rich food of the island is a must try. Culture Colombo, Ministry of Crab, Dutch Hospital and Ballys Casino are some of the top rated places known for their food and experience.
Beaches
Beaches are another well known marvel of the place. Mount Lavinia Beach is truly a jewel in Colombo’s crown, a breathtaking destination that beckons travellers with its expansive beauty and serene atmosphere. This idyllic shoreline is a haven of safety and tranquillity, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its natural splendour.
Galle Face Green and Negombo
Beach are also some of the most famous beaches.
Going around Sri Lanka
Apart from Colombo, Bentota and Kandy are the top places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Ambalangoda, Boat Safari through Mangroves, Cinnamon Island, Dedduwa Lake, Kande Viharya are the famous places to explore in the country.
Forbes notes, “It is worth spending time exploring the island’s cultural triangle as well. Located in the fertile center of the country. This area is a testament to Sri Lanka’s longstanding heritage and boasts five UNESCO Sites, each worth visiting.”
Bentota is known for water sports. Here are things you can try.
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Speed Boat Ride: A thrilling activity on the water, it is perfect to view the shorelines.
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Diving: Dive down 20 metres in the pure waters of the Indian Ocean. See the coral reefs and other aquatic life in their habitat.
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Madu Ganga River Safari: The river is home to mangroves and has over 14 species of this tree type. A river safari offers a peek into the beauty of the place.
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Snorkelling: You can snorkel at Hikkaduwa and see the giant green turtles and striking fish.
Vistors can also explore the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project in Bentota. As part of the Sri Lanka turtle conservation program, volunteers play an active role in cleaning local beaches, removing litter and dangerous debris.
Amidst tea and spice plantations of Sri Lanka, Kandy showcases remnants of its colonial past and affords spectacular lush landscapes and a rich Buddhist cultural heritage.
Kandy is home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks.
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Temple of Thooth Relic: The Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.
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Royal Botanical Garden: The Royal Botanical Gardens located in Peradeniya, is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s home to over 4,000 species of plants, including a stunning collection of orchids.
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Kandy Lake: Kandy Lakealso known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a man-made lake in the heart of the city. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
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