Sri Lanka is the top country to travel to in 2019, as voted by Lonely Planet. It is the place for your dream holiday. No matter what your tastes, interests or obsessions, this island paradise in the middle of the Indian ocean will undoubtedly be able to fulfill them. Sri Lanka has something for everybody. It is the ideal place for family vacations, group holidays, MICE vacations, backpackers and honeymoon trips. It has mountains, amazingly delicious food, fascinating culture, awesome nature and is one of the best spots for wildlife in Asia.

A jungle safari will take you to national parks where you will see the famous sri lankan elephant and the sri lankan leopard, in addition to deer, bears and a range of other wildlife. Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Minneriya and Yala are some of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka. You can also visit less touristy locations such as Buttala and Kumana for the of the best birdwatching experiences in Sri Lanka. A safari tour can often be combined with visits to some of Sri Lanka’s lovely sandy beaches for some sun and fun.

The beautiful beaches on the south coast where you can go surfing in Sri Lanka, sunbathe and meet friendly locals. On the East coast of Sri Lanka you will find some secluded beaches that will give you relaxation and privacy in paradise. The West coast offers amazing holidays and is the place to go to if you want to kitesurf. You can also go whale watching in Kalpitiya, Trincomalee and Mirissa to see lively schools of dolphins and awe inspiring whales. Sri Lanka is also the perfect place for that unforgettable beach wedding, facilitated by the experienced staff of one of its historical and famous beach hotels.

Go to the North Central and Central provinces to see the ancient ruins of Sri Lanka’s bygone era. Anuradhapura and Pollonnaruwa especially are rich with history and heritage. The impressive man made lakes of Sri Lanka are a must visit when you are in these locations. Go to Dambulla to see the famous rock temple and walk among tranquil surrounds that have been populated by hermits and seekers of truth for millennia. The rock fortress of Sigiriya is one sight that will fill you with awe. VIsit the many temples scattered across the country for moments of peace that will refresh and recharge.

Adventure tours in Sri Lanka offer some exciting chances to experience life off the beaten track. Take a hiking and camping tour to see some fantastic views and experience some great hiking trails. Go hot air ballooning over the sun scorched central plains to be carried away under a blue sky, looking down upon a minuscule civilization comprising of ancient man made lakes, majestic ruins as well as contemporary life. If underwater adventures are your thing Sri Lanka has some of the most alluring diving spots in the world. They are spread across the Western, Southern and Eastern coasts of the Island. See some of the famous wrecks that dot the coast, a legacy of Sri Lanka’s historical prominence across Central Asian maritime shipping routes and the second world war.

The hills of Sri Lanka have some beautiful waterfalls. Hike up to the origin of Diyaluma, its second highest waterfall, and bathe in secluded rock pools. Trek through lush jungles and tea plantations to experience wonderful sights such as the nine arches bridge in Ella. The tea estates in Ella and Nuwara Eliya are an experience unique to themselves. Enjoy the excellent ceylon tea born of centuries of expertise, walk among the plantations and even work with the happy estate workers as they pick the choicest leaves for your palette!

Train journeys in Sri Lanka are some of the most beautiful in the world. The train to the hill country goes through old pine forests and foggy tea plantations, and you get to interact and travel with smiling locals in the carriages, eating must-have local train food including tropical fruit and lentil cakes. Coastal trains pass beach after idyllic beach and continuously refresh you with a fresh sea breeze.

If you are going to the west coast, south coast and the hill country, visit Sri Lanka between December and March. The best weather to see the East coast comes between April/May and September.