This time we' re taking you to Sri Lanka, a wonderful island country in Asia, rich in history, culture and breath-taking landscapes. Its beaches are long and untouched and the verdant nature will be a beautiful surprise. The coastal area of Hikkaduwa is famous for its amazing coral reef populated by several colorful fish species, which make it the perfect destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. The country's most beautiful beaches include Jaffna and Casuarina Beach.

But Sri Lanka, former Ceylon, is not only about beaches, even if they are extremely charming. The country also boasts several natural parks and protected areas, where lush and diverse vegetation is inhabited by endemic animals. Bundala, Yala, Ude Walawe, Wasgamuwa and Nuwara Eliya National Parks are all unmissable destinations for a family safari. At Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage you will meet the huge Asian elephants and get the chance to help cleaning them, learning more about the projects to save them from extinction: an experience that will impress even the most skeptical of visitors.

Sri Lanka is also strongly connected to its traditions and past: the great cities, such as Colombo, Kandy and Galle, clearly show that modernity hasn't replaced mysticism. You will see it in the temples, in the religious buildings and the Buddha statutes. In Kandy you will come across the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, hosting a copy of a Buddha's relic which is also an important religious center. Dambulla Cave Temples will charm you with their decorated walls and holy statues, while history will reign supreme at Sigiriya rock, an ancient fortress in the shape of a lion, from whose top you can admire breath-taking views, and in Galle, famous for its Dutch Fort, where you can still feel the colonial atmosphere of the old Portuguese, British and Dutch rule.

During your holiday or tailormade tour in Sri Lanka do not forget to taste local dishes. Traditional courses are quite spicy, influenced by both Indian and Western culture. Curry is used as seasoning for many meat and fish specialities, which are also accompanied by rice and papadam, a seasoned pancake. Foods are often cooked in coconut milk, which is also a common drink. Some other famous beverages are the refined Ceylon tea, palm wine and arak, a spirit. Finally, stroll in the typical local markets where you can buy precious handicraft products and get in touch with the local population, always ready to smile to visitors.

Discover all our trips in Sri Lanka, and if they do not satisfy you, create your own tailormade tour with our travel experts. Your holiday in Sri Lanka will be a life-changing experience.

Countries visited by our trips in Indian Ocean