5 novel destinations to visit in Sri Lanka

Words by Imthishal

Our friendly neighbor Ceylon has been facing some rough times for a while now. The 2019 Easter Bombing, was a significantly brutal affair. To this day the families and loved ones of those who were lost are still grieving, because they were never justly given the time to heal, as soon after COVID-19 took its place in history. Eventually, it led to the economic crisis currently being faced by the country. However, there is a way we can lend a humble hand; visit one of the most iconic landscapes in South Asia.

It is perfect timing. On September 29^th, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella announced; “starting midnight tonight, 29/09, all arrivals at Bandaranaike airport will no longer be subject to on arrival PCR test provided that the test done within 72 hours of departure is negative. Arrivals should be fully vaccinated with the 2nd dose administered 2 weeks prior to arrival.” If you do have any questions about the simple procedures required, there are quite a few informative websites at your disposal; https://www.srilanka.travel/helloagain/ .Now that the government has eased restrictions for visitors, there are more and more reasons why you should pack your bags and hop on the next plane out.

In the southwest coast of the Island, you will find a city known for its esthetic and historic architecture. With buildings from both the Portuguese and Dutch era scattered across the streets, you can’t help but feel like you’ve traveled back in time to a little village in the depths of Europe. The avenues of Dutch Fort will consume you for hours, with every turn you will be met by the most breathtaking old-fashioned boutiques, offering the most profound paintings and detailed sculptures to take home. Let’s not forget the little cafés and homemade ice-cream parlors, waiting to satisfy your every craving. The special thing about this place is that as the sunsets and rises, the atmosphere seems to change; It is perfect for a day time explore, or even a date night with your special someone. In addition, if you really desire an evening to remember start it off by watching the sunset from the famous lighthouse besides the ocean or the Galle Fort Clocktower

In Central Sri Lank lies a city distinguished for its tea plantations, biodiverse rainforests and sacred Buddhist sites. When you think of kandy, you think of Kandyan pride. With every turn you are met with street art in dedication to liberty, a reminder to the locals of the sacrifices their ancestors made, in order to provide a future, they could only dream of. This is a city of history and oral tales past down from generation to generation. The iconic Kiri Muhuda lake that rests in its epicenter is your guide, there isn’t a spot around in or around this body of water that does not have a story to share, from the ancient Tooth temple to the everlasting Queens Hotel. Since this destination is 1,800 ft above sea levels, to visit a viewpoint is without a doubt compulsory on your to do list, the best spot to witness this extraordinary city from above is located just southwest form the lake. Arthurs Seat is ideal to watch the city go by anytime you desire, whether it be the dead of night or when the bustling streets awaken, there is no wrong time.

This tranquil beach town possesses one of the best surf spots in the country. Whether you’re an amateur struggling to carrying around your heavy foamboard or a pro looking for a challenge, the waves here cater your every desire. This is precisely why every season thousands of backpackers from across the globe make their way here, and eventually call it home for a few months, and some even years. The atmosphere that has been created and nurtured by the locals and the travelers who become temporarily locals, is in one way or another addictively welcoming. If you are not into watersports, let’s not forget that the area is literally surrounded by a jungle, build a fire and camp on Elephant rock or fall asleep under the stars at Whiskey Point, the options are endless.

East of this teardrop shaped island is a city partly built and influenced by the Portuguese in the 17^th century. Moreover, with the majority of its population being Tamil, the language, food, people and culture is drastically different from what you would witness west of Sri Lanka. Being here enlightens you on the wide range of diversity within one small piece of land, displaying a perspective that individuals with differences can unit and live together in peace. Further, the only advice one can give you in regard to this port city is; bring sunscreen and rent a bike. For only 500LKR a day you can make circles around Fort Frederick and ride along side the Uppuveli beach during sunrise, what more can one ask for

Tired of the heat? Make a pitstop at Ella. Hidden between misty and emerald green mountains, with rivers and waterfalls flowing between them, is a city mostly known for the journey over destination. In other words, the photogenic Kandy to Ella train ride, as clique as it may seem, is definitely not something you should miss out on. Sitting for hours next to a stranger, who becomes a friend, while sharing a sandwich and the beauty of hill country, is incredibly astonishing. For those of you who prefer a forest over an ocean, this laidback village is ideal. But be sure to bring a pair of your most trustworthy hiking shoes, because the voyage to the mystical Nine Arch Bridge, Diyaluma falls or, my personal favorite, Little Adam’s Peak is not an easy one, but it is one that is worthwhile and necessary for every adventure seeker.