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  • Asia
    • Introduction
    • Cambodia
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Laos
    • Malaysia
    • Nepal
      • Philippines
      • Singapore
      • South Korea
      • Sri Lanka
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  • Sri Lanka
    Overview
    • Introduction
    • Fact file
    • Where to go
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    • Getting there
    • Getting around
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      • Cultural values and etiquette
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    Inspiration
    • Things not to miss
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    Explore
    • Colombo and the west coast
    • The south
    • Kandy and the hill country
    • The Cultural Triangle
    • The east
    • Jaffna and the north
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  • Things not to miss
Take part in a knock-around on the beach, or join the crowds of cricket-crazy spectators for a Test match in Colombo or Kandy. One of Sri Lanka’s foremost pilgrimage sites, this soaring summit bears the revered impression of what is said to be the Buddha’s own footprint, and offers the island’s most magical – and enigmatic – views. Sri Lanka’s most perfectly preserved colonial townscape, with sedate streets of personable Dutch-era villas enclosed by a chain of imposing ramparts. Sri Lanka’s most popular and rewarding national park, home to birds, monkeys, crocodiles and elephants, as well as the island’s largest population of leopards. Eat your way through this classic Sri Lankan feast, with its mouthwatering selection of contrasting dishes and flavours. Sri Lanka is one of Asia’s classic birdwatching destinations, with species ranging from delicate bee eaters and blue magpies to colourful kingfishers and majestic hornbills. Join the crowds thronging to the colourful nightly temple ceremonies at this remote pilgrimage town, held sacred by Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims alike. This vast, mysterious ruined city bears witness to the great Sinhalese civilization that flourished here for some two thousand years. Climb the towering rock outcrop of Sigiriya, home to the fascinating remains of one of the island’s former capitals, complete with ancient graffiti and elaborate water gardens. Colombo’s colourful, chaotic bazaar district offers an exhilarating slice of Asian life. Take to the waves in search of magnificent blue and sperm whales, or pods of acrobatic spinner dolphins. Quite simply the island’s finest collection of ancient Sinhalese art and architecture. The unspoilt southern end of Bentota beach is home to a fine selection of luxury beachside hotels. One of Asia’s most spectacular festivals, with huge processions of magnificently caparisoned elephants, ear-splitting troupes of Kandyan drummers and assorted dancers and acrobats. Sri Lanka’s ancient system of healthcare uses herbal medicines and traditional techniques to promote holistic well-being. This remote east coast village has great sand and surf, lots of local wildlife and an appealingly chilled-out atmosphere. Traditional Sinhalese culture at its most exuberant, with brilliantly costumed dancers performing stylized dances to an accompaniment of explosively energetic drumming. These five magical cave temples are a treasure box of Sri Lankan Buddhist art, sumptuously decorated with a fascinating array of statues, shrines and the country’s finest collection of murals. Laid-back beachside village with a fine stretch of sand and world-class whale-watching. #20 Beautifully situated amidst the central highlands, this historic city remains the island’s most important repository of traditional Sinhalese culture, exemplified by the great Esala Perahera festival and the Temple of the Tooth.