Sigiriya — The sight of the ancient rock formation rising out of the plains is awe-inspiring in itself but then trying to comprehend how an ancient civilisation built a rock fortress on the flat top is mind blowing. The grounds and gardens add to the experience but the star attraction is the climb to the top.
Galle — Entering the Fort at Galle (really a large walled town) you would be forgiven for thinking you had stepped across to Europe. The Dutch colonial buildings are romantic and the working atmosphere of the town is special. Stay in the fort if you can, among the art galleries and boutique shops. The Galle Fort Hotel is one of the best.
Hospitality — Tourism is still relatively new to Sri Lanka and the best accommodation is small guesthouses. And this is how traveling should be; a welcoming smile and fantastic hospitably. Make sure you stay for dinner; generally the menu is a range between three to six home made curries plus accompaniments. Delicious.
Tea plantations — Escape the heat and make a base at Nuwara Eilya in the Hill Country. Just by reaching the town it is impossible to miss the beauty of the tea plantations that cover the landscape as far as the eye can see. Many of the estates offer a tour of their operations.
Ruins of Anuradhapura — The city was the centre of power in Sri Lanka for over 1000 years. The vast collection of ruined temples and pools sprawl among the natural landscape. Some of the dagobas are still significant holy sights bringing a throng of locals to mingle with the tourists.
