Sri Lanka- The Isle of Serendipity
On the scale of a World
map, Sri Lanka previously known as Ceylon appears to hang like a tiny
teardrop over the Indian Ocean. In reality though, this tropical isle
is certainly no drop in the ocean. From north to south it has a maximum
length of 435 km and at its widest point it measure 225 km, giving it
a land area of 65, 600 sq. Km.
At tropical beach level the thermometer soars into the mid 60's F. but,
within four hours journey by road or rail, lies the breathtaking hill
country where the temperature drops to the 50's F. As quickly as the
climate changes, so does the dramatic scenery. An equally short journey
will bring you to the ruined cities of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization.
On these journeys, you can see palmfringed beaches, a wealth of wildlife,
exotic flora, plains and highlands, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. These
are true beauties of Sri Lanka a calm and serene countryside matched
by an enticingly simple way of life.
Recorded history in Sri Lanka began when Buddhism gave birth to a cultural
revolution more than 2000 years ago. And in the wake of this cultural
revolution came an era of unsurpassed achievement. It fashioned life-
style, fostered the arts and inspired the creation of dagabas, temples,
statues, vas man- made reservoirs and irrigation systems which even
today defy engineering interpretation.
Almost 25 centuries later, Buddhism is still preserved in its purest
from. Its doctrine of peace and tolerance has left its gentle mark on
the land and her people. Different religions and ethnic groups live
side by side in total harmony in a democratic society.
Surf Song
Sri Lanka
offers you endless miles of perfect golden sand fringed by swaying coconut
palms. Favorite resorts like Negombo, Mount Lavinia, Beruwala and Hikkaduwa
plus Trincomalee, Nilaveli and Kalkudah are everyone's idea of a tropical
paradise with temperatures in the middle 80's F. virtually all year
round. Sri Lanka inspires a beautiful lethargy.
The World's first Wild life sanctuary
In the
3rd century BC, King Devanampiyathissa establish the world's first fauna
and flora sanctuary at Mihintale. Well over 2000 years later it is still
here for everyone to enjoy.
The Sinharaja rain- forest is an example of one of the few such remaining
forest in Asia. It is also a primeval sanctuary for over 170 varieties
of exotic orchid
Horton Plains is a special attraction. This remote plateau is the island's
last remaining montane forest- the home of some fauna and flora species
found nowhere else in the world. Kumana and Wirawila are just two of
Sri Lanka's magnificent bird sanctuaries. Stilts, Barbets, Flycatches,
Devil Birds and Stork abound in these sanctuaries.
But, to many, the national parks like Yala, Wilpattu and Inginiyagala
hold the greatest appeal. From the safety of a park bungalow or a covered
jeep, visitors can watch Leopard, Loris, Elephant and Bear roam free
in these extensive reserves.
Land of Living Legends
Religion
and culture are totally interwoven in Sri Lanka, Buddhist temples, Hindu
kovils, Mosques and churches stand together in religious harmony.
The sacred city of Anuradhapura, Founded in the 5th century BC is venerated
as the capital city of Buddhism. The sacred Bo Tree grown from a sapling
of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, is the oldest
living tree in documented history.
Sigiriya- a massive rock fortress built in the 5th century AD- is an
enduring tribute to one man's vision. An enormous gallery which once
contained five hundred portraits.
Kandy the last Capital of the Sinhala Kings is a living record to a
magnificent past. Dominating Kandy is the Dalada Maligawa the temple
of the Sacred Tooth Relic, with the Kandy Lake in the foreground. Also
within easy reach you will find the Royal Botanic Gardens.
