Thursday, March 10, 2011

Sri Lanka Travel - Adam's Peak

Adams Peak (also known as Sri Pada) is a sacred place to people of several religions in Sri Lanka!
Beginning on the first full moon (Poya Day) in December, many people make a pilgrimage to the top of the mountain - about 7,360 feet! - usually leaving late at night so that they can be at the top of the mountain to see the sun rise.

It is a long and strenuous climb and your legs will be hurting during and after your journey down, but it is worth the effort to experience this once in your lifetime.

There are a couple different routes but the most popular is on the Hatton side. It is recommended to start your climb a little before 3AM (earlier if you plan on climbing at a more leisurely pace) so that you can reach the top before sun rise. It is a remarkable view as the sun illuminates the sky and earth below. It can get cool on top - so bring extra clothes to keep you warm!

Sri Lanka Travel - Yala

Yala National Park is a wild animal park located on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka.

Inside, you can see and get close to many different species of animals, birds and reptiles - all undisturbed and living in their natural habitat!

Plan on spending several hours and visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to see the widest spectrum of wild animals roaming through the park!

Jeeps with mandatory guides are available on the road approaching the entrance to the park.

Sri Lanka Travel - Anuradhapura

Located in the Cultural Triangle area of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura contains some of the oldest buildings located in Sri Lanka --- some dating back over 2,000 years!

At the time they were built, they were also some of the tallest buildings in the world!

It is amazing to see these cultural treasures which remain in excellent shape. Be sure to plan a day to visit this incredible area and witness rememberances of Sri Lanka's fascinating history.

Just a short distance from Anuradhapura is Mihintale, home of several historic Buddhist structures.

It is well worth the short three wheel or bus ride from Anuradhapura to visit this beautiful area. Be prepared to climb to the top of the hill to get beautiful views of the entire region, as well as see the incredible structures located on this historic Buddhist property.

Sri Lanka Travel - Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was Sri Lanka's ancient capital during the 11th through 13th centuries.

Plan on spending several hours taking in the fascinating sights that Polonnaruwa has to offer!

Sri Lanka Travel - Kandy

Nestled in the hill country, this quaint town exudes tranquility and peacefulness!

Stroll around beautiful Kandy Lake ... visit the Temple of the Tooth ... and enjoy an afternoon wandering through the seemingly never ending Royal Botantic Gardens at Peradeniya!

Kandy is a definite must for any visit to Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka Travel - Baticaloa

Up until recently, Batticaloa was inaccessible to tourists, however now it is possible to visit this city along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka.

Take some time to explore the centuries old fort and lagoon area ...

as well as several nearby beaches!

Sri Lanka Travel - Trincomalee

Trincomalee is located approximately 260 km from Colombo on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. In years past, this area was ravaged by conflict, however now it is safe to visit this beautiful coastal city.

It is easily accessible by car or by short flight from Colombo.

Tourists can stay in the city itself or in Nilaveli, located less than 15 km away which offers a secluded paradise and a beautiful beach.

Other nice beaches are also close by!