Colombo
Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Situated on the west coast of the island, Colombo is a city of contrasts, where towering skyscrapers stand alongside colonial-era buildings and bustling street markets. The city's rich history can be explored through its numerous museums, such as the National Museum of Colombo, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts dating back centuries.
Colombo's charm lies not only in its historical attractions but also in its cultural diversity. The city is a melting pot of different ethnicities, religions, and cuisines, reflecting the country's unique heritage. Visitors can wander through the colorful streets of Pettah, the city's vibrant bazaar, and immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and aromas of its bustling markets. From aromatic spices to exquisite textiles, Pettah offers a sensory experience like no other.
In recent years, Colombo has undergone rapid development, becoming a modern city with a thriving business district and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The skyline is adorned with sleek high-rise buildings, housing offices, luxury hotels, and chic restaurants. Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade, provides a relaxing escape from the city's hustle and bustle, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and indulge in delicious street food.
Galle
Galle, a coastal city located in the southwestern region of Sri Lanka, is a captivating blend of colonial charm, rich history, and stunning coastal beauty. The city's most iconic attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a 17th-century Dutch fortification that stands as a testament to the country's colonial past. Within the fort's fortified walls, visitors can wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and vibrant cafes. The ramparts offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, where one can admire the crashing waves and catch breathtaking sunsets.
Beyond the fort, Galle offers pristine beaches that are perfect for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and swimming. Unawatuna Beach, just a short distance away from the city, is known for its picturesque palm-fringed shoreline and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can indulge in water sports such as snorkeling and diving, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and encountering colorful marine life.
Galle is also a hub of artistic and cultural expression. The city hosts the Galle Literary Festival, attracting renowned authors, poets, and intellectuals from around the world. Art lovers can explore numerous art galleries showcasing local and international talent, while history enthusiasts can delve into the city's maritime past at the Maritime Museum.
Jaffna
Jaffna, situated in the northernmost part of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant traditions. The city has a distinct Tamil identity and is known for its unique cultural heritage. Jaffna offers visitors a glimpse into the Tamil culture and way of life, with its vibrant temples, traditional architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine.
Jaffna is home to some of the most magnificent Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, including the iconic Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. This ancient temple, with its intricate sculptures and vibrant festivals, attracts devotees and tourists alike. The annual Nallur Festival is a grand celebration that draws thousands of pilgrims from across the country, featuring colorful processions, traditional music, and captivating rituals.
The city's rich history is evident in its architecture and landmarks. The Jaffna Fort, a 17th-century Dutch fortress, stands as a reminder of the colonial era. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors. The Jaffna Public Library, once known for its vast collection of ancient Tamil manuscripts, has been rebuilt and stands as a symbol of knowledge and resilience.
Nuwara eliya
Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka (City of Lights) is a resort city in the Central Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. Blessed a with salubrious climate, breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains and greenery; it’s hard to imagine that Nuwara Eliya is only 180 Km from the hot and humid Colombo.
Nuwara Eliya, also known as ‘Little’ England’, was the favorite hill station of the British who tried to create the resort into a typical English Village. The old brick Post office, country house like hill club, with its hunting pictures, mounted hunting trophies and fish, and it’s strict formal dinner attire; the 18 hole golf course, race course etc., evoke nostalgia of Colonial British Ceylon.
The salubrious climate has led to its development as a hill resort and health spa as well. It is the site of a meteorological observatory. Pop. (2001) 25,388; (2012) 23,804.
kandy
Kandy is a large city in central Sri Lanka. It's set on a plateau surrounded by mountains, which are home to tea plantations and biodiverse rainforest. The city's heart is scenic Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake), which is popular for strolling. Kandy is famed for sacred Buddhist sites, including the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) shrine, celebrated with the grand Esala Perahera annual procession.
From the 13th or 14th century, Kandy became a centre for both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, the religion’s two major sects. The most important of its many Buddhist temples is Dalada Maligava (“Temple of the Tooth”), where a sacred relic, supposed to be the left upper canine of the Buddha, has been preserved since 1590. The temple was constructed under Kandyan kings during the periods 1687–1707 and 1747–82.
The Esala Perahera, the annual 10-day torchlight parade of dancers and drummers, dignitaries, and ornately decorated elephants, commemorates the sacred tooth; it is now one of the better-known festivals in Asia, and it may be the largest Buddhist celebration in the world.