Leopard Watching in Wilpattu

Nature lovers and all leisure travellers visiting the charming island of Sri Lanka has a plethora of places to visit among which, Wilpattu National Park is a highlight. When in search of Sri Lanka beach resorts a desirable choice is Palagama Beach Kalpitiya, one of the most unique Kalpitiya hotels. Relatively larger than Yala National Park and having a fascinating history, Wilpattu park is renowned for being ideal for spotting leopards. The journey in the park itself is an exciting experience, bringing your inner daring explorer. The majority of leopard spotting in the park has been recorded near its water basins or villas. Thus take part in a leopard safari to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Sigiriya Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination because of its pristine beaches, fascinating wildlife and rich heritage. There are hundreds of historical sites to visit while in Sri Lanka, and although all are interesting and beautiful in their own way, only a few can match the historical value and beauty of Sigiriya.

Sigiriya is a rock fortress situated in the Matale district of Sri Lanka. It was built by the Sri Lankan rebel king Kasyapa around 477AD when he seized power from his father, and its architecture and art give locals and tourists alike a glimpse of the nation’s rich culture during that period. One of the most famous attractions that one can see on a visit to this magnificent rock fortress, are the frescoes depicting beautiful women holding flowers. They are painted directly on the rock, and it is believed that around five hundred of these frescoes were originally painted. However, only around twenty-one are still visible. Nevertheless, these frescoes are still beautiful, and the locals regard them as a very important part of the island’s history.

Another famous attraction in Sigiriya is the mirror wall. This wall is covered in graffiti dating back centuries, and are mostly poems written in an older dialect of Sinhala, one of the country’s official languages. Although the main purpose of Sigiriya to function as a defensive structure, the king made sure that he was comfortable living atop this fortress, building many bathing pools that received water through a well-planned pipe structure, verdant garden spaces, and a magnificent palace. Now, the ruins of the palace can still be visited through an ancient stone staircase flanked by two gigantic lion paws carved out of the rock – the remainder of a massive lion statue that served as the entrance to the palace, as well as the ruins of a city within the fortress. Sigiriya offers tourists a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s rich and vibrant culture, and after visiting this magnificent rock fortress it is easy to understand why it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a very important part of Sri Lanka’s colourful history, and to truly be able to appreciate the magnificent culture and heritage of Sri Lanka, a trip to Sigiriya is an ideal place to start.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island to discover and explore, as its myriad natural, manmade, and cultural wonders can definite attest. Anyone who wants to indulge in a bout of travel sri lanka should consider booking quality and competitive Sri Lanka tours offered by agents such as Elegant Travels in order to truly enjoy the splendour of this magnificent island.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+

Family Adventure Sri Lanka

From fun water sports to thrilling safaris into the wild, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for an exciting family adventure. The island’s different region’s each offer something different to experience and one of the best ways to head to these locales is by way of Sri Lanka sea planes such as those offered by Cinnamon Air. This air taxi Sri Lanka has to offer provides access to some of the country’s key destinations and lets you enjoy a stunning aerial view of this tropical paradise as well.

There is much to see, do and experience when it comes to a family adventure in Sri Lanka. The famed South Coast is known for its pristine sun kissed beaches where you and your family can enjoy an array of water sports including, snorkelling, waterskiing, jet skiing and more. The country has also become a dolphin and whale watching hotspot and the waters around the island provide you with a great opportunity to see these marine mammals in their natural habitat. The mountainous hill country is ideal for nature treks, while not to be missed is a chance to embark on wildlife safaris at such National Parks as Yala where one can spot leopards and elephants. There is never a dull moment in Sri Lanka, and you can be ensured of plenty of fun family holiday memories.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Cycling and Mountain Biking in Sri Lanka

Put your pedal to the metal and experience a one-of-a-kind biking experience on your Sri Lanka travel itinerary, where you will cover everything from ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lush tropical rain forests to pristine beach, mountains, and lakes on the exciting Sri Lanka tours on offer at local travel pioneer Jetwing Travel. Delve into a tour of cycling and mountain biking that reveals the splendid aspects of a unique culture spanning more than 2,500 years that has played host to a unique way of life on this paradise isle. The cycling tours feature the expertise and professionalism you would expect from cycle tour leaders from across the globe, and no cycling excursion is ever the same, as constant innovation is their game. In the midst of cycling through the wondrous sights of the country, you will also be able to embark on hiking, camping, wildlife safaris, canoeing, and many other excursions that will bring you up close and personal with the various aspects of the Sri Lankan landscape. Choose an excursion that is right for you, with options of discovering the serene hills country, the arid northwestern expanse, or the idyllic beach expanse of the south and eastern seaboards.

Yala National Park

A traveller looking to be based at a Sri Lanka beach resort should look to none other than Ranna 212, one of the finest Tangalle hotels. The island’s second largest and most visited national park, Yala consists of five blocks with individual names. Located in the country’s southeast region, the park is well known for its wildlife and plays a major role in the conservation of aquatic birds and Sri Lankan elephants. Within the vicinity of Yala itself are three wildlife sanctuaries and six national parks. Playing host to a diverse array of ecosystems from marine wetlands and freshwater to moist monsoon forests, Yala has long been among the country’s main tourist attractions.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Cycling tour to Sigiriya

The vibrant tropical isle of Sri Lanka bursts to life with fresh vigour when you explore it via two wheels, as you will get up close and personal with the friendly locals, scenic surrounds, and ancient artefacts such as the impressive sites in and around the ancient city of Sigirya. When you are booking your holiday in Sri Lanka ensure you partner up with travel professionals Sri Lankan Dreams as they offer a competitive set of tours to Sri Lanka that are guaranteed to be unforgettable. Cycling tours are some of the best ways to explore the country further, as you will have access to many places not on your run-of-the-mill travel itinerary. You will be peddling along the famous “King’s Route”, which was established more than 1,000 years ago. The ancient city of Sigiriya simply demands a trek to the top of the famous “Lion’s Rock” fortress, which reveals the majestic landscape unfolding before you with swathes of green and blue. You will also come across several huge Dagobas (Buddhist stupas) that are second in size to the pyramids of Giza. Travel to Dambulla nearby and soak in the aged splendour of the cave temples that are home to some of the world’s finest specimens of ancient Buddhist art, both in sculpture and mural form. Cycling tours to the region are usually part of a larger cycling itinerary, so you will also get to ascend the cool hills of the central region, take a peddle on the wild wide with visits to local nature reserves, and cycle by the south western sea as you make your way back to the starting point in Colombo.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Trekking and Hiking in Sri Lanka

For nature lovers, Sri Lanka is a treasure-trove of wonders. Every inch of this beautiful island has something to intrigue the keen explorer. If you are particularly interested in going raw and authentic and hiking around this island, there are some fantastic spots that you must not miss.

Sri Lanka’s hill country offers a diverse collection of flora and fauna that has fascinated eco-tourists and biologists for decades. For many, trekking and hiking starts at the quaint little town of Belihuloya. Belihuloya is found in the central province of the island and makes an excellent base to start out your nature tours. The many thick jungles, spectacular mountains and lush paddy fields provide a relaxing diversity that hikers would fall in love with. The long rivers and sparkling waterfalls scattered in the area make an excellent stop by for a quick dip after being warmed by the island’s tropical sun. Very close to Belihuloya you find one of the most beautiful stretches of land in the island; the Horton Plains National Park. The Horton Plains make a mosaic of wonders and highlight the 880 meter drop called the World’s End and the lush Baker’s Waterfall. From this part of the island the scenery is truly mind blowing. The Adam’s Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is also another excellent spot for trekking. The sunrise from up here is nothing short of breathless and the many who hike up this mountain begin their ascent at night in order to catch this remarkable view. Then there is the little city of Bandarawela. Located in close proximity to the Adam’s Peak, the town is known for its many interesting walks such as the Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock and the Namunukula Mountain Range. Once you head to the Kandy region don’t miss the sheer beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range. Stretching to an interesting 155 square km this range boasts exquisite scenery, large forests, long rivers, lush waterfalls and rare and endemic fauna and flora. For hikers this whole island is truly paradise.

When it comes to holiday travel Sri Lanka never disappoints. Choose Elegant Travels and enjoy the best of the Sri Lanka tours.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Nature Treks to Hiriwaduna

Discover Hiriwaduna which is an idyllic local village nestled amidst thick jungle and vibrant wildlife in Habarana, Sri Lanka. A trek through this community shrouded in age-old customs would do wonders for you. So consider Walkers Tours known for their Sri Lanka tours who will be more than pleased to organise a trip to the area. Such Sri Lanka holidays are not to be missed for they hold a wealth of pleasures and mesmeric surroundings that you would rather be a part of for the rest of your life.
A trek in the area will take you past a man-made reservoir, marshland and scrub jungle that will enable you to capture the sights of butterflies, birds, crocodiles, bears and even the odd elephant or two. Learn of the livelihoods of the villagers who go about their chores meticulously and effortlessly. Savour the farmer’s hospitality and even help pick a few vegetables that would go into a hearty meal prepared using earthenware pots and firewood. Experience the essence of the rural lifestyle, here in Hiriwaduna.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Boat Ride in Madu River

Sink into a tropical paradise when you make your stay at one of elite Sri Lanka villas that enjoy the lush surrounds and sweet bird song only found in the most idyllic of localities. Sample the delights of Saffron and Blue by Jetwing which offers the quintessential Sri Lanka luxury villa to make for an unforgettable holiday on Sri Lanka’s beautiful southwest coastline. Whilst you are here, embark on a boat ride in the idyllic surrounds of the Madu River in Balapitiya and discover a wondrous ecosystem primed for exploration and appreciation. It is the country’s second-largest wetland dotted with 32 islands, two of which house 215 families. A site of immense biological, ecological, and aesthetic importance, it features 303 plant species and 248 invertebrates, it is considered to be one of the last remaining examples of virgin mangrove forest in the country. The main product that emerges from this natural paradise is peeled cinnamon as well as cinnamon oil. Madu Ganga functioned as an important water transport line that connected the cities to the ancient Sinhala Kingdoms, prior to British Colonization. It remains an integral part of the country’s natural and cultural heritage, and a visit to Madu Ganga is definitely a must-do on any travel itinerary in the area.

Leopard Safari in Yala

An adventure into Sri Lanka’s wild awaits you, when you embark on an exciting Leopard safari in Yala National park. A safari into this unique landscape should feature in your Sri Lanka travel plans, and you can explore the various Sri Lanka tours offered by many reputable travel professionals on the island, with Jetwing Holidays being an excellent choice. Come face-to-face with the ever-reticent and majestic predator of Sri Lanka’s wilderness: the Leopard. The best time to spot this magnificent feline is early morning or again at sunset. The Leopard stalks the grounds in a confident gait, and the younger males have no qualms about approaching the jeep directly, opening up a world of spectacular photographic opportunities, so snap away!  This unique being is only one of fascinating local flora and fauna sure to cross your path during your trip out here. You will also be able to spot the sambar, spotted dear, jackals, mongooses, sloth bears, and the most vibrant birds that are sure to delight all bird-watchers, with Rosy Starlings, Crested Hawk Eagles, Blue-Tailed Bee-Eaters and Paradise Flycatchers amongst the many species winging through the trees. So go on a leopard safari in Yala to discover the island’s most intriguing predator!