Visiting historical landmarks
Sri Lanka is filled with ancient landmarks that dictate a part of its history. As visitors to this island nation, you can discover their significance and history by visiting and exploring ancient ruins in Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, or come to understand the history of colonisation at Galle and Jaffna Forts. Visit Sigiriya and Dambulla to climb the Rock Fortress or explore the Cave Temples which are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Exploring museums and art galleries
History and art go hand in hand in depicting culture, renaissance and beauty. There are several museums in Sri Lanka, each adhering to its own curation that is unlike the other. The National Museum and the Sri Lanka Air Force Museum in Colombo pertain to the history of the country as well as its defence. In Kandy lies the Ceylon Tea Museum where you can learn the history and significance of tea. The National Museum of Galle has a unique curation of history, making it a worthwhile visit. Finally, make sure to get a taste of Sri Lankan artistry by visiting the Lionel Wendt Art Centre in Colombo.
Cultural festivals or events
Festivals in Sri Lanka depict the country’s unity despite different religions, cultures and customs. Throughout the year, various festivals are celebrated among every religion. Some of the major ones that occur are: The Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April which is celebrated island-wide. The Deepavali Festival is celebrated in October and November, mainly in Jaffna and Colombo. Vesak is another festival that is celebrated across the country. You can take part in these festivities to learn about the various cultures and religions that are in Sri Lanka.
City tours
Cities in Sri Lanka are filled with history, glamour and stories to tell. You can undergo a city tour that will impress you with facts of these cities such as Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Jaffna and Nuwara Eliya. During the dry season from April to September, the skies are blue and the weather is clear, allowing for the most perfect excursions.
Sampling local cuisine on food tours
Each city has a facet of culture and cuisine that makes up the entirety of Sri Lanka. Unique flavours encompass the cities that food tours will be available in. In Colombo, you can find fusion cuisine as well as lively street food locations. For a traditional touch, visit Kandy. Head to the Southern Coast where seafood reigns supreme. The Northern areas such as Jaffna have their own unique flavours that cannot be found otherwise. Negombo is the best for the freshest catch of the day seafood.
Architectural visits
Sri Lanka is known for its architectural sites that represent various ideals. For the beauty of nature, visit Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunuganga Estate found in Bentota. You can head to various locations in Colombo like the Seema Malakaya Temple and the Independence Memorial Hall. For more religious locations, visit the Jetavanaramaya Stupa in Anuradhapura or the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna. Throughout the dry season, the warm weather and clear skies permit you to freely travel through Sri Lanka.