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For a country about the same size as Tasmania there is an overwhelming amount to experience in Sri Lanka. Here are five aspects you must try and experience.

Lately, everyone is talking about Sri Lanka – and rightly so. The island paradise is chockfull of amazing sights and experiences, all crammed into a space smaller than Tasmania. This means less time spent getting from sight to sight and more time enjoying everything the country has to offer. Plus,

Sri Lanka is not swarming with tourists... yet. Here’s why you should visit now.

1 HISTORY

There aren’t many other countries in the world with as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites packed into such a small space. There are currently eight UNESCO marvels in Sri Lanka – including the grandiose rock fortress of Sigiriya with its exquisite frescos and the scared ancient city of Kandy – which is home to a famous temple that houses a significant Buddhist relic – what legend claims to be the tooth of the Buddha himself! Of course, there are hundreds of other historical and cultural sights for the curious traveller, including majestic fortresses dating back to the colonial era, ancient temples and Buddhist ruins.

2 WILDLIFE

Sri Lanka is considered to be one of the best wildlife-watching countries in South Asia, with animals such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears and abundant birdlife to observe in their natural habitats. There are over 20 national parks in Sri Lanka and Yala National Park is one of the best, recognised as having one of the highest leopard densities in the world and home to 43 other mammal species.

3 NATURE

Secluded powdery-sand beaches, tropical rainforests, grass-carpeted plains and soaring mountains that pierce misty clouds, Sri Lanka is home to many diverse and spectacular landscapes. Whether you simply want to kick back and soak up the sunshine or head out for an active adventure, the panoramas that surround you will astound.

4 PEOPLE

The locals in Sri Lanka love to welcome visitors with their wide smiles and hospitable nature. They are relaxed and laidback and genuinely happy to share their world with those who are interested in learning about it.

5 TEA

If you’re a tea connoisseur, Sri Lankan tea is renowned around the world. The British introduced tea to the island (known as Ceylon at the time) in 1824 and since then the tea-growing (and drinking) scene has burgeoned. Enjoy a cuppa while relaxing in a street-side cafe, join a tea-tasting appreciation class, visit a historical tea estate, learn about the history of Ceylon tea at the Ceylon Tea Museum... there are a plethora of tea experiences in Sri Lanka!