Sri Lanka is a small tropical island, located in the Indian Ocean in the southern Asia. A land of azure beaches, misty mountains covered with lush green tea plantations, extended blossoming rice paddies and dense palm forests, Sri Lanka, is an epitome of enthralling natural beauty. The country, even after having a compact landscape, takes pride in its diversity, whether it is regional or cultural.
Sri Lanka is a country of mystical natural splendour. The coastal areas, with its golden sand, cobalt blue water, clear sky and ample sunlight, are heaven for all kind of beach lovers. Whether it is adventurous water sports like scuba diving, kayaking or water skiing, or just relaxing and breathing the incense of moist coastal air, the beaches in this country offers it all. Some of the best beaches in the southern and eastern coastal region of the country are Tangalla, Mirissa, Uppuveli Beach, Bentota and Arugam Bay.
The rich and diverse topography of the island allows it to be a proud habitat for a number of rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Surrounded by ocean, it is also home for a myriad of sea life. Sri Lanka Asian elephants, leopards, red slender Loris, purple faced langur, sloth bear and Toque Macaque are some of the species of wild animals found in the country. Whale watching is another leisure pursuit that can be taken in the country, with its large coastal area offering the spectacular sights of impressive whales and vivacious dolphins.
Sri Lanka is also a land of archaeological treasures, which is apparent in the abandoned architects of ancient cities, some of which are still standing tall amidst the lush green forests. The ancient temples, Buddhist dome shaped structures, remains of ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, each tells the distinctive stories of the past millenniums. Diversity is apparent in all aspects of life in Sri Lanka. The rich history of the country, with intermingled foreign cultures, has its influence in the religion, ethnicity, food and costumes. The island has been the main trading centre since the ancient times and has attracted visitors from all corners of the world. The diverse and unique cuisine of Sri Lanka also illustrates the foreign influences. The distinctive flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine are a blend of Dutch and Portuguese, English and Indian and Arab and Malay. The plentiful coastlines, abundant rice fields, spice gardens and lush coconut trees, provides for the Sri Lankan dining tables. Rice is served with variety of spicy curries and seafood.
Ayurveda is an integral part of healing in this land of ancients. All the senses seem to submerge in the syrupy smell of flowers, incense and spices, with herbal oil being massaged on the body, giving a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing. A number of resorts in Sri Lanka, offers the holistic healing of Ayurveda by harmonizing the body, mind and soul. Herbal massages and baths, ayurvedic diets and treatments, meditation and yoga balances the three aspects of life.
