STEUART HOLIDAYS

Colombo is the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka and its history involves rulings by the Portuguese, Dutch and British. The cosmopolitan side of Colombo includes stylish theatres, cinemas, restaurants, cafes, museums and galleries. Nearby attractions include Colombo Lighthouse, The Prison Cell of the last Sri Lankan King and the Beira Lake.

Situated amidst the hills in the centre of Sri Lanka, Kandy was the last Royal Kingdom that fell to the invading armies of the British. It is also the resting place of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, an honour that is still retained. Nearby attractions include Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Garden and the Udawattakele Forest Reserve

Bentota is famed as the best beach resort of the south-western and southern coastal belts of Sri Lanka. Bentota Beach is ideal for snorkelling, diving, sailing, wind surfing, water-skiing and deep-sea fishing, making it a good fit for a long beach holiday. Nearby attractions include boat ride in the river and mangrove forests.

Galle is a port city and is also known as the fortified city. Built by the Dutch, the original design of the fort still stands today. The city is a fusion of European and Sri Lankan architecture and is bordered by an amazing coastline. Nearby attractions include Galle fort cliff jumpers, sea turtle hatcheries and the Galle lighthouse.

Trincomalee is a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka and is possibly the site of historic Gokana in the Mahavamsa. Set on a peninsula, the grand Koneswaram Temple stands on the Swami Rock cliff, a popular vantage point for blue-whale watching. Nearby attractions include Nilaveli and Uppuveli beach

Jaffna is located in the northernmost peninsula of Sri Lanka. Previously torn by war, Jaffna is now on its way to becoming a developed city. Jaffna is also home to the Jaffna Fort, the second largest Dutch Fort in Sri Lanka. One of the most unique things about Jaffna is the presence of vast amounts of Palmyra trees. Nearby attractions include Delft Island, Jaffna Fort, Elephant Pass and the Jaffna library.

The ruins of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, Anuradhapura, are among some of the world’s most evocative sights. Containing a rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders that range from brick stupas to ancient pools, they still stand as a reminder of Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Nearby attractions include Abhayagiri Dagoba, Sri Maha Bodi and Ratnaprasada.

Dambulla’s iconic rock cave temple is a quintessentially Sri Lankan image. Anyone anticipating to visit this city will be familiar with its spectacular sights long before their arrival. Even though Dambulla appears to be more commercialised than ancient cities in its vicinity, it remains an important holy place and should not be missed. Nearby attractions include Kandalama Tank and the Minneriya National Park.

Polonnaruwa was established as the first city of the land in the 11th Century A.D., replacing Anuradhapura, which was plundered by the invading armies from South India. It is humbling to see palace buildings and clusters of dozens of dagobas, temples and various other religious buildings in a relatively small area. Nearby attractions include Parakrama Samudraya, Potgul Vehera and Gal Potha.

Negombo is a quaint beach town located in close proximity to the Bandaranaike International Airport and thus serves as a pit-stop for weary travellers. Featuring a number of hotels and restaurants, Negombo also has a happening nightlife. Nearby attractions include Negombo Dutch Fort and the Hamilton Canal.

Kitulgala is a small town in the west of Sri Lanka and is one of the wettest places in the country. As it is surrounded by forested hills making way to the swift waters of the Kelani River, It is Sri Lanka’s prime location for white water rafting and adventure sports. Beli Lena Caves is also located in close proximity to Kitulgala.

Literally translating to ‘The land of the lakes’ this is exactly what you'll find at Wilpattu National Park. As visitor numbers remain low, even in high season, it gives Wilpattu a genuine sense of wilderness. This is a park that is suited to the more dedicated safari and nature enthusiast. Kudiramalai point is also located in close proximity to the park.

Kalpitiya is located in the North Western province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its natural environment, consisting of 14 islands. Its location makes it an ideal place to observe large pods of dolphins and whales. Windsurfing is also a popular activity that many indulge in. Nearby attractions include Kalpitiya lagoon and the Kalpitiya Dutch Fort.

Ella is a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province. It is the ideal place to enjoy a few leisurely days resting in your choice of some of the country’s best guesthouses. The views too, are simply stunning. Make time to hike through tea plantations to temples, waterfalls and viewpoints. Nearby attractions include Ravana caves, Nine arch bridge, Ella gap and little Adams peak.

Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. Its home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species. This is one of the most visited national parks in the country so be aware of overcrowding.