Sri Lanka

This tiny island of 65,525 square kilometers is home to a most exceptional diversity in every way. Its cultural tapestry is richly woven with a mix of eastern and western influences resulting in what is uniquely Sri Lanka. Ancient Sinhalese kings of 2,500 year old kingdoms, periodic invasions from India, colonization by the Portuguese, Dutch and British and being a key port on ancient middle eastern trading routes have all contributed to shape Sri Lankan culture which is bursting with evidence of its history.

The island’s location in the warm tropical Indian ocean, its unique land formation and mother nature’s blessings have resulted in Sri Lanka becoming home to an incredible biodiversity.

Few other destinations will offer the opportunity to see the largest marine mammal – the Blue Whale, the largest land mammal – the elephant and the illusive leopard in a single day. As much as the island’s wildlife is diverse, it is also extremely easy to access, making Sri Lanka the perfect holiday destination which offers, miles of quiet golden sandy beaches, amazing wildlife experiences, fascinating culture, tantalizing cuisine and exceptionally friendly hospitality. With the end of the 26 year civil conflict in May 2009, the island’s north and east which was not accessible before is now open and offers explorers the chance to see unchartered territories. The people of these areas are rebuilding their lives and working towards a brighter future and welcome visitors and
development; however travellers need to be sensitive to their circumstances and responsible in every way.

 

Throughout history, great explorers have tried to described Sri Lanka in many ways… the truth is that while they’ve come close… only exploring for yourself will truly reveal the wonders of this tiny island… “Enticed by tales of rare spices and ancient civilizations, Indian, Arab and European adventurers were drawn to this irresistible island.Wild Sri Lanka by Mike Birkhead
Sri Lanka is a little Island, a pendant, that nestles gently on the swelling bosom of the Indian Ocean.Caressed by warm waters, 770 miles of golden sand ring the Island. Within these sands is green,lush green, fertile land sculptured, towards the centre, into soaring mountains. An emerald fringed by filigreed gold and set in aquamarine – truly a jewelled pendant.Handbook for the Ceylon Traveller, 2nd Edition (1983)
The inhabitants of this place are uncommonly obliging, and are always ready to accompany a stranger, and afford him information when he expresses a wish to see any curiosity which the little Island produces. Tranquility, plenty, and contentment reign among them; and they feel no desire to leave the spot where they were born – it produces everything necessary to their comfort.James Cordiner on Batticaloa, in Ceylon, Vol I. (1800).
The wildlife of the land has been famous for centuries, but only in this generation have we grown to know the wildlife of the sea – which is even more prolific, and far more colourful.Sir Arthur C. Clarke in The View From Serendip (1984)