The capital of Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Anuradhapura is an impressive major city set on the banks of the Malvathu River. This is an important heritage area, recognised by UNESCO. The city developed around the sacred, third-century ‘tree of enlightenment, Sri Maha Bodhi, said to be the oldest tree on earth, looked after for 2000 years. A massive collection of ancient ruins encompasses monasteries, palaces, and other monuments, and is surrounded by beautiful green jungle. Numerous sites are still used for religious ceremonies today. Must-sees include the massive Abhayagiri Dagoba, (‘Hill of Protection’), the stunning Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba, guarded by the statues of 344 elephants; and the Jetavanarama Dagoba, which was, at the time of construction, the third-largest building in the world (after the two pyramids), and was the site of one of the first Buddhist sermons.
Resting on the southern edge of Sri Lanka’s picturesque Hill Country, the small, sleepy village of Ella is known for its exceptional natural scenery, its wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, and its pleasantly moderate climate. This popular backpacker-hub has become a well-established, must-see tourist destination and an ideal base for travellers exploring the idyllic surrounding countryside cloaked in tea plantations and lush forest. With only a handful of essential stores and tourist facilities, Ella has managed to retain its rural charm and visitors will find a single street winding its way down the hillside past a few quaint cafés, guesthouses and cottages enclosed in neat, flower-filled gardens. At the edge of the escarpment, you will find a classic view past the renowned Ella Rock on the right and through a cleft in the hills – the so-called Ella Gap – to the plains far below.
Sandwiched between the bustling capital of Colombo and the thriving city of Kandy in Sri Lanka's central highlands, the attractive town of Kegalle serves as the main commercial centre of the Kegalle District and the gateway to the naturally beautiful central hill-country. The town offers panoramic views of the lush rolling hills, which are dotted with an array of unusual temples - many of which have been built around natural caves. Other popular attractions in the area include the exquisite Algama Falls, which feature lovely natural swimming pools; the gorgeous Wewaladeniya Viharaya temple, located in the middle of town; a number of beautiful spice plantations; and the nearby village of Molagoda, which is renowned for its traditional clay-based handcrafts.
The village of Koggala on Sri Lanka’s south coast offers stretches of exquisite beaches and wonderfully good surf - perfect for those seeking a quiet holiday surrounded by nature. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the little beach restaurants with the picturesque bay as a backdrop, or pop into the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum for a sample of the local traditions. Fascinating and beautiful Buddhist hermitages, situated on the islets of Koggala Lake, may be visited with prior arrangement, Alternatively, you can take a catamaran ride or go on a fishing expedition on the lake with one of the villagers, or enjoy a tuk-tuk ride along the dirt tracks to the lake and enjoy the indigenous flora and fauna, including the elusive monitor lizard.
