In the heart of the Indian Ocean lies a gorgeous tropical island with a rich history, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and some truly breathtaking natural scenery. Where is this paradise place, this dream travel destination? And what makes it so special?
Why This Island is a Top Place to Visit in 2024
Earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to spend more than 4 months living on this amazing island. From its mist-shrouded mountains to its pristine, sun-drenched beaches, I explored virtually every corner and fell totally in love with it.
Okay, enough smoke and mirrors. If you haven’t guessed, I’m talking about Sri Lanka! According to CN Traveler, Sri Lanka is tipped as one of the best places to go in 2024. I wholeheartedly agree with this, and here’s why.
1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty
For a relatively small country (it’s only 65,600 square km in size), Sri Lanka has a huge amount of natural beauty.
The island has more than its fair share of breathtaking beaches, especially along the southern and eastern coasts. I spent a month living in a tiny village near Mirissa and explored most of the beaches in that area.
One of my personal favorites is a tiny secluded cove called Abimanagama Beach. You can only reach it on foot which means it’s quiet and unspoiled. It’s stunning, with its golden sands, wrap-around cliffs, jungle, and crystal-clear waters full of turtles and fish. Come here for sunset!
Inland, the island has a wealth of different scenery. The rugged mountains of the central highlands, with their lush tea plantations and misty hills, offer a stark contrast to the wetlands and inland waterways you’ll find in the northeastern part of Sri Lanka.
2. Rich Culture
Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry is as diverse as its landscapes. The island’s history spans over two millennia, evidenced by its numerous ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sigiriya is one of the most famous – and impressive – ancient sights in South Asia. This ancient fortress is perched at the top of a towering rocky outcrop and once served as a palace for Sri Lankan royalty. It’s well worth the hike to the top, this whole place blew my mind.
The highland city of Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, is often considered to be the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. But the cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are also full of temples and ruins that offer rich glimpses into the island’s ancient Buddhist…
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