Sri Lanka is resplendent with nature, the Indian Ocean metamorphoses into an azure blue shade and touches the powdery white shores, and waterfalls emerge from deep within the rocky terrains and trickle into little streams through pristine and lush tea plantations. The natives are genuinely friendly, and culinary goodness is in abundance.
It’s time we skip the usual spots and pave our road to the untold tales. Sri Lanka is often known only for its dazzling capital Colombo, the ancient city of Kandy, the golden sands of Bentota, the mountains of Ella, and the never-ending tea estates of Nuwara Eliya, when there is so much more to this historical land than meets the eye. Here are a few places where you could go off the beaten track in Sri Lanka and tell tales that very few people might have heard.
Mannar
Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mannar,_Sri_Lanka#/media/File:Lighthouse,_Talaimannar.jpg
A quaint gem of Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, Mannar town, is situated on a peninsula, this place encapsulates history and nature. Known for its beaches, churches, temples, baobab trees, and a historical tryst with the Arabs, Dutch and Portuguese, it promises to be a reward for travelers. Mannar is also an important pilgrimage center with the Shrine of Madhu church and the Ketheeswaram temple.
An unmissable site here is the Ram Setu which is revered for its immense symbolic and mythological value. The lagoons and palmyra trees of Sri Lanka are home to multitudes of colorful feathered creatures.
Haputale
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Hidden in the heart of Uva, Sri Lanka’s mountain province, Haputale is a misty, tiny town with sprawling and captivating tea estates, the charm of natural beauty, and fresh air. There is nothing more rejuvenating than walking amidst the mountains and a vast expanse of lush tea terraces, it’s nothing short of a picturesque postcard with its toy trains and railway tracks. This place is also a paradise for tea lovers. Get authentic experiences as you visit the organic tea farms and taste and buy your preferred tea leaves. The majestic sight of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall the Bambarakanda Falls of 863 feet is breathtaking.
Batticaloa
Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batticaloa_Lagoon#/media/File:Batticaloa_Lagoon.jpg
Batticaloa is located on the eastern edge of the island. It has golden beaches and sunny vibes and is a spectacle to behold. It has all the makings of an exotic travel destination with its lagoons, churches, museums, and forts. It is ideal for hiking, sailing, water skiing, and windsurfing on the beaches of the neighbouring town, Kallady, and for fishing. The vibrant town and its distinct local culture are synonymous with the Sri Lankan style. Experience the colonial buildings and the daily hustle of their local life. The famous Batticaloa Fort that stands heroically amidst lagoons and canals makes a historical sight. Also, the Anipandi Sitivigniswara Alayar temple and the St. Mary’s Cathedral bring with them a rich cultural grandeur.
Unawatuna
The crystal-clear blue waters and powdery sandy shores of Unawatuna are unique. Unawatuna Beach, Dalawella Beach, Sahana Beach, Jungle Beach, and Mihirpenna Beach are some of the most spectacular and charming beaches here that deserve to be on the must-see list for their welcoming landscapes and atmosphere.
This is an ideal place to rejuvenate with splendid dining options so you can tantalize your tastebuds while you soak in the serenity of the beaches. The Dalawella beach is known for its palm swing which excites you to bring out your inner child. Built by Japanese Buddhist monks in 2005, the Japanese Peace Pagoda temple is an ideal place for meditation and tranquillity.
Bentota
With crystal clear sandy beaches and golden shorelines, Bentota sure would make you euphoric with its magical, vibrant vibe that is perfect for a laid-back vacation. Adventure seekers are rewarded with a plethora of activities like snorkeling, diving, paragliding, parasailing, and surfing. The transparent waters are a treat to the eyes. The beaches are home to a number of fantastic aquatic animals. There are plenty of hiking and trekking trails to explore in and around Bentota. For a unique experience, in the midst of mangrove forests, you can take a cruise down the Madu river and get a taste of the indigenous wildlife.
This place indeed is a beautiful island nation with spectacular beaches, endless forests, dreamy hills, splendid cuisine, and the warmest people you will ever meet. With HI Tours, celebrate Sri Lanka which contains all the qualities of a vacation paradise and there’s nothing quite like its hospitality.
Uppuveli and Nilaveli, both close to Trincomalee in the northeast, are secluded and stunning stretches of sand. The few accommodation options are spread out, making these beaches perfect for lonely wanderings.