Sri Lanka is widely renowned as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, or ‘Emerald Isle”, boasting eight stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites. Furthermore, its bustling travel industry welcomed over 2.3 million visitors in 2017.
Terrorist attacks in April caused tourism to decrease significantly; official travel warnings and safety concerns caused people to postpone or cancel trips altogether.
Galle
Galle, Sri Lanka’s southern province and UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts many attractions for visitors of all kinds – from cobbled streets and restaurants to galleries and cafes, Galle is an ideal spot to spend a day or two.
The Clock Tower, one of the city’s iconic structures, stands majestically within Fort Walls and was built to commemorate Peter Daniel Anthonisz – a physician well known for both his skills and kindness – who inspired it.
For an adventure outside the Fort, visit one of the local fruit, spice and flower markets. Here, you can sample an abundance of tropical fruits such as mangosteen and lychee-like pineapple as well as find plenty of trinkets to take back home – an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
An enchanting forest of tall trees topped by their own natural canopy and covered by lush moss is truly captivating, and an expedition through it promises an exciting journey.
Visits to this forest are among the top activities on any short visit to Sri Lanka, drawing nature enthusiasts from all over the globe. Its lush flora and fauna attract nature enthusiasts from near and far.
Nimal Gunatilleke and other environmentalists were drawn to this forest’s abundant biodiversity and endemism for its incredible ecological value, prompting him to advocate for greater protection of this reserve in the 1970s, opposing mechanized logging to produce plywood products.
As part of its efforts to safeguard a reserve, the government has proposed adding 12 surrounding forests into it and increasing the protected area network fourfold. Such an action would go a long way toward protecting biodiversity at the site while fulfilling World Heritage obligations; however, the process has taken time. No gazette notification has yet been issued by authorities.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park (also known as Ruhuna) is one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations, boasting one of the highest visitation rates among national parks in Sri Lanka and offering excellent chances to spot leopards and elephants among many other animals.
The park is home to 44 mammal species, including the world’s highest concentration of leopards. Also visible may be wild water buffalos, sloth bears and spotted deer.
Sri Lanka boasts over 215 species of birds, with 7 being unique to Sri Lanka and over 215 recorded here. For optimal bird watching experiences, February to July is best when water levels are at their lowest and animals become more visible. An inclusive safari tour is the best way to see all of its highlights; Jeeps enter twice daily at 6 am and 2 pm respectively and prices vary accordingly.
Gal Oya
One of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known treasures, Gal Oya is one of its lesser-known wildlife hubs and home to amazing elephants – and boat safaris around its largest inland lake are an ideal way to view them swimming among its islands.
Gal Oya National Park was established in 1954 to protect the catchment area for Senanayake Samudraya reservoir, and today contains 32 species of mammals such as common langur and endemic toque macaque; leopard, sloth bear and water buffalo. Within its boundaries is Buddhangala Sanctuary where you will find remnants of an ancient stupa dating back to 2nd Century BC that is visited regularly by Buddhist pilgrims.
Staying in a luxurious wildlife lodge like Gal Oya Lodge with only nine thatched bungalows is essential to experiencing nature and connecting with wildlife in its purest form. From here, guests can explore this spectacular region!
As part of its efforts to safeguard a reserve, the government has proposed adding 12 surrounding forests into it and increasing the protected area network fourfold. Such an action would go a long way toward protecting biodiversity at the site while fulfilling World Heritage obligations; however, the process has taken time. No gazette notification has yet been issued by authorities.
The park is home to 44 mammal species, including the world’s highest concentration of leopards. Also visible may be wild water buffalos, sloth bears and spotted deer.
