By Ricky Coates
A tropical jewel in the Indian Ocean; a land of lush wetlands and thriving lagoon life; a country so filled with joy it will inspire you. This is Sri Lanka. Holidays to this small yet multi-faceted island country are a treasure trove of unexpected delights.
The stunning natural beauty of the island's tropical landscape and the idyllic beaches of its coast make holidays in Sri Lanka extremely inviting. The temperate climate and renowned hospitality of the warm and engaging locals, has seen Sri Lanka holidays become increasingly popular.
From the rich cultural heritage of the island has emerged a diverse and eclectic ethnic community, yet the result is distinctly Sri Lanka. Holidays to the island are not just about relaxing on the beach - although the beaches are outstanding. And they aren't just about the culture - although the history is fascinating. Holidays in Sri Lanka are truly experiential - with the sum of everything you see and do; eat and drink; hear and feel; combining to form the perfect portrait of a memory of Sri Lanka.
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
You will see elephants everywhere on your Sri Lanka holidays. They are depicted in carvings, artwork and coats of arms. They are almost a national emblem and one of the most rewarding things you can do in Sri Lanka is to visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. Halfway between the towns of Colombo and Kandy in the central hills, the orphanage was established as a sanctuary in 1975 with four motherless elephant calves. Many offspring from those original four now live happily in the orphanage but it has also more recently become an important breeding centre. Now housing over 70 elephants - the largest group of captive elephants in the world - the centre is a beacon for conservation as well as being a popular tourist site.
Polonnaruwa
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is wonderfully well-preserved and a must see on your holidays in Sri Lanka. It was the island's capital between the 11th and 13th Century and is filled with ancient architecture such as the intricate Dagobas, strikingly beautiful statues, and monuments. It is an easy area to explore as it is so compact, and it is lovely to wander around the ancient statues and feel the history emanating from this ancient site. Today, excavations and conservation are underway in order to further preserve these fascinating ruins.
Bentota Beaches
Reputedly the best beaches to visit on your Sri Lanka holidays are around the Bentota and Aluthgama areas. The wide sandy beaches are lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and are a popular location for diving, fishing and of course swimming. Although there are a lot of resorts in the area and it can get quite busy, it is still possible to find some quieter beaches on which to take a long, relaxing solitary stroll. You can also take a river cruise up the Bentota River to enjoy the wildlife and experience the unique geography of the river which, in some places is separated from the sea by only 100 metres of shoreline.
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