Sri Lanka between culture and traditions
Since Sunday we have been carrying out with you a virtual tour of Sri Lanka, and this since after ten months of closure, Sri Lanka today welcomes foreign tourists from all over the world, by reopening its international airports of Bandaranaike (Colombo) and Mattala Rajapaksa (Hambantota).
And with Ben Gurion Airport slated to reopen soon, Sri Lanka is the perfect place to come out of this lockdown with stars in your eyes.
Sri Lanka is one of the leading romantic destinations in the whole world. The land of serendipity brings spiritual tranquility and a chance to rediscover oneself. The beauty of this tiny island is simply breath-taking. Known for its enchanting ancient ruins, endless soft-sanded beaches, imposing mountains, colorful festivals, tempting water sports, dense wild-life, diverse ethnical groups and off the top hospitality from the local residents, Sri Lanka is bound to make you come back again.
And to make you want to go, let’s explore Sigiriya
At the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Sigiriya is an emblematic site of Sri Lanka classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the Lion Rock, this imposing rocky block houses the ruins of King Kassyapa’s palace. At the end of the 5th century, the sovereign took refuge here after killing his father and driving his brother out of the kingdom. On the ascent, you visit a rock gallery famous for its magnificent frescoes of the “Maidens of Sigiriya” painted on the rock face. At the top, the ancient Sigiriya Fortress towers over the surrounding jungle and offers spectacular views of the Sri Lankan countryside. To avoid the crowds and the hot weather, go to the opening of the site. Allow less than an hour to climb the steps of the fortress to reach the top.
Without transition, let’s discover Anuradhapura
North of the Cultural Triangle, the city of Anuradhapura is a major holy place of Sinhala Buddhism. This triangle formed by the cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa
and Kandy, is home to most of Sri Lanka’s archaeological heritage. Sri Lanka’s first royal capital from the 4th century BC to the 10th century, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most iconic monuments are the immense Jethawanaramaya dagoba and Sri Maha Bodhi, the island’s most sacred temple. This is built around the sacred Maha Bodhi tree, one of the oldest in the world, grown from a cutting from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment in North India. A great religious fervor emanates from this holy place, where many faithful, monks and families come to meditate and make offerings.
And to end this day’s visit let’s go to Colombo
Located on the west coast of the island, on the maritime trade routes between Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Colombo is today the economic capital of Sri Lanka. In recent years, the city has experienced a renaissance and new constructions are constantly emerging. You will find some historic places like the mythical Galle Face Hotel, a palace built facing the Indian Ocean in 1864. Get in a tuk-tuk to explore the Dutch Fort district where several buildings bear witness to the colonial era. The Dutch Hospital is a renovated 17th century building, now home to excellent restaurants. Take a walk through the shopping streets of Pettah. Do not miss a visit to the Gangaramaya temple, a Buddhist site still in activity. Rendezvous during Navam Perahera, the full moon in February, to capture all the religious fervor that pervades the streets of Colombo. As the sun sets, walk along the Indian Ocean on Galle Face Green, an esplanade where the locals of Colombo meet.
Intrigued? You want to know more…? This article Sri Lanka between culture and traditions interested you?
Wait until tomorrow…
Tomorrow we will continue to discover this exceptional country, this country of traditions, this country which awaits you, The wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka.
In the meantime, discover the stays we offer departing from Tel Aviv by clicking here
Book your flight by clicking here