5 Reasons Sri Lanka Should Be Near the Top Of Your Bucket List

Most visitors to the tiny nation of Sri Lanka find themselves captivated by its endless golden beaches, lush green tea fields, and astonishing wildlife. Marco Polo visited in the 13th century and famously described it as the finest island of its size in all the world.

In addition to its store of precious stones, the explorer was fascinated by the island's rich religious and cultural history, which now includes Buddhist, Hindu, and colonial influences. There are six UNESCO World Heritage sites in the country, dating to the 5th century.

The spectacular tropical paradise of the Maldives is just a short 1-hour plane ride away, making for a fantastic two-destination opportunity.

Aerial view of overwater bungalow resort — The Maldives, just an hour away from Sri Lanka makes an extraordinary combo vacation!

Here are a few more reasons to put Sri Lanka on the top of your bucket list!

Sri Lanka's History And Heritage

Row of seated Eastern statues line Dambulla Caves — Dambulla Caves

Sri Lanka is steeped in history and charm, with historic ruins, restored temples, and crumbling ancient cities. For the ultimate cultural immersion, visit Sigiriya, the Dambulla Cave Temples, and the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa in the Cultural Triangle.

Learn more about the island's tea heritage in the central highlands. Stay at Ceylon Tea Trails, a collection of restored tea planters' bungalows, and take a private tour of the Dunkeld Tea Factory. You'll learn about the journey of tea from leaf to cup and the story of the family behind Dilmah Tea. In the 1980s, this family created the concept of single-origin Sri Lankan tea.

Aerial view of Galle Fort and surrounding sea. — Galle Fort in Sri Lanka

The ancient city of Galle Fort is a must-see for any visitor to Sri Lanka. The Portuguese built Galle Fort in 1541, and the Dutch fortified the stronghold a century later. The impressive structure is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. Today it's home to gemstone boutiques, quirky cafes, and cozy guesthouses.

Food, Glorious Sri Lankan Food!

Three fishermen sit on wooden perches and cast line into water while another wades nearby with his simple gear . — Traditional fishing techniques in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's rich melting pot of cultures and influences means their cuisine is packed with colorful spices and bursting with flavor. For a truly unique experience, join Cape Weligama's head chef on an outing to a local fish market to learn about the island's fishing culture. Bring the catch of the day back to the hotel for a cooking class to recreate the magical flavors of your vacation.

Three chefs and a guest prepare food in the kitchen at Cape Weligama — Enjoy a traditional cooking class at Cape Weligama

Another delightful culinary experience is a private floating breakfast set in one of the best romantic resorts on a private pool.

Unique Wildlife Experiences In Sri Lanka

Twelve elephants walk through shallow water as sun lowers in the sky — A herd of elephants wade through shallow water at Yala National Park

There's no shortage of fantastic wildlife experiences in Sri Lanka. Explore Uda Walawe National Park and Yala National Park in the southeast. In these parks, elusive leopards and sloth bears reside alongside elephants and a kaleidoscopic of birds.

Visitors to the Wild Coast Tented Lodge can expect an up-close wildlife encounter with friendly elephants from nearby Yala or the wild boars who roam through the lodge. Further north, marvel at superb birdlife at the Horton Plains National Park or Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park.

Interior of luxury camping-style room with king-size bed — Cocoon at Wild Coast Tented Lodge

At Mirissa and Weligama in the South, you might spot Sri Lanka's other famed inhabitant, the Blue Whale. Between November and April, the Blue Whales and pods of dolphins can be seen as they travel through these waters. Spend a morning aboard a private catamaran for an unforgettable adventure.

Sri Lankan Pristine Beaches

Light waves roll onto beach at Cape Weligama — The Beach at Cape Weligama

Sri Lanka's coastline is fringed with some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Beautiful stretches of golden sand and swaying trees abound. You'll find some of the island's most popular beaches like Mirissa, Dikwella, and Weligama along the southern coast. These beaches are renowned for their surf and whale watching excursions.

Weligama offers the widest variety of surf breaks, great for both beginner and seasoned surfers. Cape Weligama is the place to make the most of these legendary waves.

On the east coast near Trincomalee and Batticaloa, the beaches of Uppuveli are a little more off-the-beaten-path. They offer an ideal setting for secluded sunset strolls.

Epic Views From The Top Of Sri Lanka

Aerial view of Adams Peak surrounded by fog — Adams Peak

From Adam's Peak to Pidurangala, numerous hiking trails offer breathtaking panoramic vistas. For even more magnificent views, explore the country by seaplane. Travel from the hill country to the South and watch as the landscape changes from rolling hills to jungle to open plains within minutes. Keep an eye out for elephants or other wildlife along the way.

The epic views needn't stop there. Have a night under the stars in a private jacuzzi at Ceylon Tea Trails overlooking the sparkling Castlereagh Lake. Take a sunrise dip in the renowned crescent moon pool at Cape Weligama. While you are there, watch as the waves crash into the rugged cliffs below.

Are you ready to explore this exotic destination? I would love to craft a spectacular bucket-list adventure for you. Click here to set up some time to discuss how I can create the best vacation for YOU.

This article is in collaboration with Rebecca Recommends and their recent Travel Notebook.