leisuretravel

 Sri Lanka’s capital city, Colombo, is a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Busy and crowded, Colombo is the commercial city of Sri Lanka. Most tourists head directly to a tourist area from the airport, but they miss out on the gems that Colombo offers. There’s no better place to understand the country’s cultural harmony than Colombo. Everything comes together seamlessly here, and there are plenty of things you can do and see if you’ve got an entire day. AKS.9955 ,  Gangaramaya Temple ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 National Museum of Colombo To gain an insight into the country’s history and culture, you should visit the National Museum. The collection here includes a variety of historical items, including jewellery, arms, coins, artefacts, clothing items, and traditional craftwork. The museum is located around 20 minutes from Pegasus Reef. Viharamahadevi Park  Also called Victoria Park, Viharamahadevi Park is another place you should visit during your day...

  The coastal town of Kalutara in Sri Lanka is sure to capture the interest of the visitor with its diverse and appealing attractions. Amongst these would be an array of water sports that will thrill and entertain those of all ages. In fact, as there will be so many water sports to choose from here, you are sure to find one that catches your fancy. Irrespective of whether you seek an adrenaline rush or a more sedate activity, you will not be disappointed in Kalutara; some of these activities are described below. Image by  Dimitris Vetsikas  from  Pixabay   Go jet-skiing There is no doubt that jet-skiing would be counted amongst the most thrilling and exhilarating water sports. The feeling of controlling and guiding the powerful water steed beneath you will always be an absorbing experience. With a little practice, you will be riding your jet ski with confidence, surging through the waters and undertaking skilful twists and turns. Although as with any water sport...

  Sri Lanka is known for its pristine beaches and these beaches are found in every corner of this country. However, not all coastlines are suitable for every water activity or sport. Here is a list of some of the most popular and best water activities and where to try them out. Hope you learn about how to get the best water sport experience in Sri Lanka by reading below. Image via Wikimedia Commons  Surfing on the southern and eastern coast  If surfing happens to be your favourite sport and hitting the sandy point breaks in 30 degrees seems like a good idea, and tropical, sunny weather sounds appealing to you, Sri Lanka is calling your name. On the eastern coast, you can find Arugam Bay. The location has become a surfing mecca in the region for pros, and many competitions are held during the peak seasons, typically, from December onwards. However, Arugambay is ideal for seasoned surfers. Beginners can try the beach at Weligama, which is on the southern coast and clos...

A great way to kick start your adventure in Sri Lanka would be to set about discovering the numerous activities that can be had, either out on these mesmeric seas or down rivers where you will pass by mountains and valleys. In short, this article will take you through the myriad of wonders that encompass the water sporting activities in Sri Lanka. Described below are some of the popular forms of water sports that can be delighted in no sooner you have settled down at your resort or hotel property. vastateparksstaff ,  Kayaking and exploring the lake on June 5, 2016. (27519554160) ,  CC BY 2.0 Surfing The western, southern, as well as the eastern shorelines of the country, are frequented by waves that would come across as being idle havens where novice, as well as skilled surfers, can practice their trade. During high season, swells around these coastlines are known to rise to a staggering 8 feet, and the most sought-after regions worth heading over to would-be Hikkaduwa on the...

The town of Unawatuna in Sri Lanka’s southern province is one such destination that would beckon you to step out of the comfort of your abode and into the brilliant outdoors that feature prominently here. Further, the seas around the town are picture-perfect and priceless in every sense and in turn, allow intrepid adventurers to uncover the magic of a sublime ecosystem that it boasts of. Scuba diving is one such leisure activity that ought to be indulged in once here. Stated below are tips and guidelines that require adhering to. Image via pixabay What does scuba diving involve? Knowing the nitty-gritty of a new leisure activity is always wise and preferable before heading out. In this regard, you can research up what scuba diving requires by way of online articles or a book at your local bookstore. Generally speaking, scuba diving is one of the most popular recreational activities with the term ‘Scuba’ denoting “Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus” accordingly. The activity ...

Kandy can be identified as the gateway to the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It was the island’s last kingdom and is a city with a rich heritage. There are many historically rich places to visit in Kandy with family and friends. From the temple housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha to the fascinating elephant orphanage, Kandy will wow you with its salubrious climate and mountain-framed surroundings. Here’s how to make a list of the best places to visit in Kandy. Image via Wikimedia Commons Explore the Dalada Maligawa - The Temple of the Tooth Relic Kandy is a pivotal point for Buddhism because the city houses the Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is a sacred tooth of the Buddha, preserved within a golden casket. Visit this historic shrine to observe the traditional rituals and devotees at prayer. Housed within part of the former Royal Palace, the temple holds within its folds many ancient artefacts, apart from the sacred tooth relic. If you are planning...

The Emerald Isle of Sri Lanka provides countless opportunities to fully appreciate the wonders of a tropical escape like no other. Thus, regardless of whether you long to lie by the beach or take to the mountains en route to scaling new heights on your bucket list; Sri Lanka is well worth the investment. Also, there are certain facts that any prospective traveller would need to know and understand long before the day dawns for one to commence journeying to the country. Obtain your visa Other than if you are a national of Singapore, Seychelles, or the Maldives, you will be required to obtain a visa to enter Sri Lanka in order to facilitate your future travel plans. To begin with, one must have a passport valid for 6 months from the date of departure from Sri Lanka and in turn, a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The most convenient means of obtaining your visa would be via an online application form which would require the payment of a fee. Thereafter, you will have to prin...

The highland town of Nuwara Eliya offers many attractions for visitors. There are several good ways to get to and around Nuwara Eliya, such as by train, bus, taxi, aircraft and tuk-tuk. Depending on your individual needs and budget, each of these options will have its allure. Provided below is some useful information regarding these modes of travel. Banu119 ,  Hill Country Train View ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 By train You will find that the town of Nuwara Eliya is located on the train route stretching from Kandy to Ella; this train ride is considered to rank amongst the most picturesque journeys you could take by train anywhere on the globe. On this train journey, you will have the opportunity to experience stunning views of the scenic hill country of Sri Lanka. Therefore, travelling to Nuwara Eliya by train would be the obvious option for reaching this town; do keep in mind the station is at "Nanu Oya", a short distance from the main town centre. Meanwhile, you will also be able to tr...

 How can one enjoy a beach holiday? While it might seem like a bit of a redundant question, it can never hurt to be too prepared. So what are all the possible things you can do to make the most of your beach holiday? Read on to find out – you might be pleasantly surprised to find out that you missed a few! Image Credit: Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas Choose a Good Resort If you’re planning the vacation of a lifetime, one of the basic things that you can get right from the get-go is the choice of a hotel or resort. The brand you stay with and their level of service, hospitality and facilities can be crucial to making or breaking your holiday experience, especially if you’re travelling to an exotic but remote holiday destination. This is because, in such a scenario, you will be largely dependent on the resort you stay with for everything, and the majority of your time will be spent there. So, do your research to find the top hotels on your holiday destination. If you’re not fami...

Sri Lanka is an island which to many is almost a magical oasis. The bio-diverse environs mean you go from chilling on a beach to warming by a fireplace in a matter of 4 hours. Couple that with the exotic and mouth-watering cuisine which is equalled by the allure of ancient traditions and a culture old as time. Exploring traditional places like Kandy, the hill capital, is a treat. This article looks at Kandy's most treasured gem and how to experience the best of the temple of the sacred tooth. 1. The Hill Capital Of Sri Lanka – Kandy Kandy was the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. A culturally rich city, framed by blue mountains and silvery waterfalls. The islands longest river, the Mahaweli, makes its way across the city which is one of the most fascinating to explore since the areas main attractions are located right smack in the middle of it. The Sri Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is located within part of the former royal palace. 'Maligawa' meaning palace a...

The beautiful city of Kandy is sure to strike the interest of the visitor with its many fascinating attractions. Considered to be one of Sri Lanka's cultural hubs, this city will undoubtedly appeal to the avid sightseer and culture lover alike. If you happen to be planning a vacation in Kandy, the attractions described below will be great choices as you make your itinerary. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Your vacation in Kandy should undoubtedly include a visit to the greatly venerated Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Known in the local language as the "Sri Dalada Maligawa", its main attraction is a tooth relic that devotees believe to be from Gautama Buddha. Accordingly, it is regarded as a sacred site by Buddhists and innumerable local and foreign travellers, make their way to this religious attraction. At the time of puja, when offerings and prayers are made, the golden casket which houses the tooth relic may be viewed. You will see that the Temple of the Tooth is situ...