Holiday in Sri Lanka

About Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical island of overwhelming diversity - a country that combines eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temple complexes, endless palm-fringed beaches, mist-covered tea plantations, wild herds of elephants, and a cuisine that is among the most exciting in the world, all within an area barely larger than Bavaria. The tear-shaped island off the southern tip of India has impressively reclaimed itself after years of civil war and the tsunami disaster, and today it is one of the most fascinating travel destinations in Asia. The cultural triangle in the interior holds treasures of world significance. Sigiriya, the rock fortress, rises 200 meters above the jungle - a massive granite monolith on top of which a king built a palace in the 5th century. The frescoes of the cloud maidens halfway up are over 1,500 years old and are among the most significant artworks in South Asia. Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, former royal cities, impress with giant Buddha statues, ancient stupas, and ruins that testify to a high culture that flourished simultaneously with the Roman Empire. The highlands of Sri Lanka are a world of their own. Surrounding the colonial hill town of Nuwara Eliya are endless tea plantations that stretch in lush green terraces over the hills. The famous train ride from Kandy to Ella, winding through tea gardens, over viaducts, and through tunnels, is considered one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world. In Ella itself, one can hike to Little Adam's Peak or the Nine Arch Bridge, a colonial masterpiece of engineering. The coasts offer different highlights depending on the season. The southern coast around Mirissa and Unawatuna attracts with calm waters, whale watching, and relaxed beach days from November to April. The east coast with Trincomalee and Arugam Bay is a surfer's paradise from May to September. Yala National Park boasts the highest density of leopards in the world, and in Udawalawe and Minneriya, wild herds of elephants can be observed in their natural habitat. From Germany, one can fly with a stopover in about 11 to 13 hours to Colombo. Sri Lanka is an affordable travel destination - even with comfortable hotels, a private driver, and all entrance fees, one can manage with a moderate budget. The people are warm and hospitable, and English is widely spoken. A Sri Lanka round trip of two to three weeks is one of the most impressive travel experiences that Asia has to offer.