TikaWeeks #10/2024: Sri Lanka update
Posted by John on 5th March 2024
Imagine coconut palms swaying rhythmically in the fragrant breeze, the shallow, clear warm waters of the Indian Ocean lapping gently onto sun-kissed tropical beaches, and ice-cold sundowners and the freshest of seafood to savour – this is summer in Sri Lanka. Our Summertime in Sri Lanka Tika Taster itinerary is ideal for adventurous couples or families seeking an extra-special summer holiday in the resplendent land of Sri Lanka.
Beginning in Kitulgala, the adventure capital of Sri Lanka, there is plenty to thrill even the most avid adrenaline chaser, including white-water rafting, kayaking, canyoning, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking and exploring, while staying in a riverside glamping campsite with stunning views.
Following the winding vertiginous roads through the velveteen slopes of verdant tea plantations and past spectacular waterfalls and impressive mountain scenery takes you to Nuwara Eliya, the British colonial capital of the Hill Country and the highest town in Sri Lanka at 1900 metres above sea level. Then on to Ella for a couple of nights within an organic tea estate, spending time with village families to learn about local food and handicrafts, help to collect honey and kithul treacle from the forest, explore the farm and learn about organic farming, and try your hand at plucking and rolling tea, peeling cinnamon, roasting coffee or making jams and chutneys. There are also various walking trails, spectacular waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints in the area.
A scenic train journey through the Hill Country takes you north to Kandy, one of the principal points of the island’s Cultural Triangle and the seat of the last Sinhalese kingdom. The second city of Sri Lanka has a picturesque setting around its lake, a rich historical and cultural heritage, a comfortable Mediterranean-type climate, and UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The bustling city is home to the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Botanic Gardens, a picturesque lake and much more! A homestay will introduce you to local life and the opportunity to prepare your very own 'rice and curry', the island's national dish.
On into the Cultural Triangle to visit the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa before enjoying an extended stay at an east coast beach. The warm, clear and shallow waters of the Indian Ocean lap gorgeous Passikudah Bay, your home for the next 4 nights. Local activities include windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, diving, snorkelling, badminton, beach volleyball and cycling.
Visits to Sigiriya rock fortress and Dambulla cave temples as well as a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park to see herds of wild elephants while staying in a rustic forest lodge wrap up your exotic adventure holiday in Sri Lanka.
Categories: Accommodation, Culture, Sightseeing, Sri Lanka, Sustainability, Wildlife
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