Sri Lanka: the adventurous side of the ancient island of Ceylon

Sri Lanka - the island of Ceylon - is an untouched paradise with something for everyone. You can find incredible beaches, wildlife safaris, mountains covered in tea plantations or beautiful hiking trails with waterfalls and caves, not to mention the fascinating culture.

The island has it all. 

While it doesn't boast Africa's famous ‘Big Five’, Sri Lanka's Big Four (leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and blue whales) are becoming an increasing draw for nature tourists from around the world. The safaris in Sri Lanka lap at the heels of Africa at a fraction of the cost.

There are 24 national parks to explore on the island. You’ll need more than a week here or it will give you multiple reasons to return. Sri Lanka has hiking for all levels, from your day hiker to the expert with all the gear. The island has over 400 waterfalls hidden within thick forests, intrepid peaks, mystical rocks, lush grasslands, and clear lakes.

Of those 24 national parks, 4 offer different types of safaris. Udawalawe is best known for elephant and water-buffalo viewing, and Yala is known for leopard sightings. Udawalawe has the highest concentration of elephants in the world, outside of Africa. While in  Wilpattu National Park you can spot bears, leopards, elephants, crocodiles, eagles, the list is long. Horton Plains National Park is covered in Montana grassland and cloud forest. You’ll find a picturesque spot called World’s End, views for days. This park is for the bird lovers, 21 endemic bird species can be spotted here.

When you’re not spotting for animals, you can take up surfing at one of the many beaches surrounding the island. The island is teeming with excellent surf schools. But it’s not just for the novice, you’ll also find waves that are coveted by world-class surfers. You really can’t complain when conditions are typically good all year round. 

And then, and then, the food. There should really be a completely separate blog about the food. The island of Ceylon is a rich melting pot of cuisines. It was a stopping point for so many during the early days of trading – the Dutch, Portuguese, English, Arabs, Malays, Moors, and Indians. Thus becoming a unique blend unto itself. A cuisine bursting with rich spices, coconut in all forms, curries that you never imagined, and the best crab. Some will want to return just for the food.