Tropical climate all year round
The nation experiences two monsoon seasons, which affect different parts of the country at different months, as opposed to one monsoon at the same time throughout the country. This means that, at any given time, travelers can expect a sunny climate in the country. The southwest monsoon is between May and July, which leaves the north rain-free, and the northeast monsoon is between October and January, which leaves the south ready to be explored.
Wildlife biodiversity
Sri Lanka possesses a very high degree of biodiversity and is considered as one of the top biodiversity hotspots in the world. You cannot visit Sri Lanka without visiting one of the many national parks to try to catch a glimpse of an elusive spotted leopard or see elephants, bears, deer, monkeys, mongoose, wild boar, water buffalo, peacocks and many other beautiful species in their natural habitat.
The beaches
The beaches in the south and west are the most buzzing right now on this teardrop-shaped island. Known unofficially as the 'Sri Lankan Riviera', the beaches are a majestic golden-tan colour, fringed with swaying palm trees and backed by orchards, rice paddies and lowland tea plantations. The southern beaches around the colonial town of Galle are the most paradisical.
Buddhist heritage
Buddhism has played a key role in the country over the centuries and there are several ancient temples dotted throughout the country. These centuries-old temples hold a piece of Sri Lanka’s history and often feature awe-inspiring architecture and designs that were far ahead of their times. The most well-known example is the Temple of the Tooth, although the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which features a Bo tree from the original Sri Maha Bodhi in India, and Ruwanwelisaya, are must-visit, too.
The food
You will go wild for the food, which has been shaped by its historical and culural past. Must-eat dishes include curd and treacle, a dessert made using buffalo milk curd and dusted with coconut, hoppers, which are like a battered pancake, cradling everything from eggs and veggies to sweet treats; and of course, Sri Lankan curries, seafood and King coconuts.
The tea trails
Lovers of a good cuppa will be in their element in Sri Lanka, the cool Hill Country is covered with tea plantations on every available slope. Opt to stay with Ceylon Tea Trails, which has four luxury bunglaowes connected by walking trails through stunning tea gardens. The Ceylon area covers 2000 square kilometres and produces 300 million kg of Ceylon Tea per year, make sure you rouse yourself to climb the famed 2250m Adam's Peak holy mountain for a sunrise.
It is 'India Lite'
It is just so much easier to travel here than in India. Transactions go more smoothly, things work and best of all, trains and planes leave near enough on time. And there is a fantastic network of hotels, all of which you can book on the web.