Sri Lanka
Welcome to Sri Lanka! A country with a rich cultural heritage dating back over 2500
years, home to an abundance of wildlife, captivating landscapes and pristine golden
beaches that sweep over the coastline. Few other destinations can provide such a
diverse array of experiences within such a compact location. The tropical island
of Sri Lanka has an infinite number of magical experiences to offer its travellers.
So join us at Sri Lanka Holiday Buzz and embark on a journey of endless possibilities!
Cultural Heritage
Sri Lanka boats of a rich cultural heritage that dates back over 2500 years. The
country’s first influences stem from neighbouring India, when Bhuddism was first
introduced to the island. Discover the vitality and grandeur of ancient Sri Lanka
by visiting a whole host of cultural sites, which have been restored to their original
splendour. This tiny island is home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exhibiting
the progressive civilisations that existed centuries ago. Wander through the vast
array of ancient cities, palaces, reservoirs, temples and monasteries- and be transported
to a mythical bygone era.
Wildlife
Sri Lanka is blessed with an infinite variety of wildlife species. Most important
are the Asian elephant, Sri Lankan leopard, Blue whale and the multihued birds found
in the island. Sri Lanka is home to the largest elephant migration in the region.
Known as ‘The Gathering’, over three hundred elephants flock together in search
of water and shelter from the scorching heat. The event draws large numbers of wildlife
enthusiasts, as the sheer volumes of these gentle giants in their natural habitat
is an absolutely magnificent sight. This small little island boats of the highest
leopard density in the region as well, meaning the likelihood of spotting these
‘top cats’ is extraordinarily high. Block 1 of the Yala National Park is noted for
being the best park in the country to view these majestically spotted leopards in
the thick dense jungle. On the southern coast of Sri Lanka is the world’s top location
to view Blue and Sperm whales. Just south of Mirissa is Dondra Head, a spot where
large numbers of these glorious marine mammals can be viewed with ease especially
between the months of June and September. Sri Lanka is a bird watchers haven. The
tropical climate combined with vast expanses of untouched landscape attracts over
400 birdlife species. Over 200 birds migrate to the tropical isle in winter months,
some flying from as far as the arctic tundra. With 33 endemic birds residing in
Sri Lanka, all one needs is a set of binoculars to view the kaleidoscopic plumage
of the many wonderful species. With over 200 species of colourful butterflies fluttering
around the island as well, you will be ensured that your travel to Sri Lanka is
a positively vibrant one.
Adventure and sports
For the adventurous traveller, Sri Lanka has a number of various activities that
exploit the diverse landscapes, wilderness, rivers, lagoons and the Indian Ocean.
Whether you wish to cycle across the countryside, embark on an adventurous white
water rafting excursion, drift along in a hot air balloon or even scour the seas
in search of Blue whales- Sri Lanka Holiday Buzz can arrange this for you! The turquoise
blue Indian Ocean provides you with endless opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling,
surfing, sailing and wind surfing.
Beaches
The island of Sri Lanka is blessed with a myriad of magnificent pristine beaches.
The southern coast line is the most popular stretch of beach with destinations such
as Bentota, Hikkaduwa and Galle being the most frequented by travelers. With the
opening up of the north and east of the island, travelers are spoilt for choice
with the variety of exotic, sun kissed beaches that wait to be discovered. Sit back,
relax and enjoy the unadulterated bliss of our many beaches.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an ancient form of medicine that was originates from India. Directly
translated Ayurveda means the ‘science of life’ and this herbal holistic treatment
helps one discover the science of a healthy living. Ayurvedic treatment deals with
the delicate balance of three main elements found within the body. These elements
include vata (air), pita (fire) and kapha (earth). If an individual has an imbalance
of these energies, it can lead to illness and disease. Therefore this ancient holistic
treatment helps one find the perfect equilibrium of these imperative elements leading
to a healthy life style. With the advancement of modern medicine, the credibility
of Ayurvedic healing has been hotly debated. However it is safe to say that Ayurveda
in its purest form can lead to a healthy balanced lifestyle, and is now used to
complement modern medicine.
Buddhism
Buddhism was first introduced to the country in the 3rd century BC. Emperor Asoka
of India sent his son Mahinda to Sri Lanka to spread the teachings of the Lord Buddha
to its people. The reigning king of that time, King Devanampiya Tissa eventually
became a great patron of Buddhism and began to establish monasteries and temples
across the island. Therefore Buddhism became a fundamental part of Sinhalese culture
and still remains so today. Apart from the modern monasteries and temples, travelers
can visit the mammoth collection of Buddhist temples or holy grounds that scatter
the country. Some of the most important include: Mihintle, Yapahuwa, Aukana, Ritigala,
Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic), Dambulla Cave Temples, Aluvihara Cave
Temple, Gal Vihara, Adams Peak and Kelaniya Raja Mara Viharaya.
