What is traveling about? Self-exploration, rejuvenation or is it just a calling to life? Presumably, to each his own. But all of us come across or hope for, a destination that reaches beyond our fantasies and wreaths a garland of reminiscence in our minds.

Sri Lanka, with its multifarious recreational opportunities, contrary to its humble presence on the planet, does offer such getaways. Moreover, hotels in Nugegoda, Anuradhapura or other important cities are easily found as per requirement. It then becomes a task to pick from the myriad subscriptions of culinary delights, multifarious heritage, and mountains and of course a spectacle of beaches. If you wish to make it a memorable time, make sure you tick the following things on your list.

Surf’s Up

As easy as getting a drink at one of the beach shacks at the resort town, you can grab a board and get surfing lessons at your beck and call. The intensity of the waves of the island nation is favourable for beginners. Hikkaduwa, on the south-west coast, is home to coral reefs and turtle hatcheries that only add to the wonder of aquatic vocations. For the best part, you don’t need to pick a particular time of the year to ride the waves while the sun sets on the horizon.

Go for your Tea

The hill country in central Sri Lanka is home to the finest genus of Tea. The small picturesque towns, namely Nuwara Eliya and Ella witness relatively cooler temperatures than the rest of the country and offer a sight of the awe-inspiring pastoral hills.

Most of the teas estates host travellers as guests and proffer private tours. You can simply go around looking for the tea-making process and finally bask in the high sun with the freshest cup on your table on a balcony.

Eye Kandy

Whenever in Kandy, a visit is quite incomplete without exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, popular for hosting a real tooth of Buddha. As the legend goes, the region witnessed wars for this relic site.

Within a convenient distance of the famous Kandy Lake, Hotel Mount Rajapihilla Mawatha – a Yoho Bed property is perfect to avail the various offerings of the town. In Sri Lanka hotel booking is undemanding with Yoho’s properties spread across the town. End your day with a walk beside the lake and experience the chimera called Kandy.

Call on Sigiriya

The historical book of Sri Lanka is brim-full of lesser known events and sites. As the tale goes, the ‘Lion Mountain’ sitting in the central district was put into service by the King Kashyapa to avoid foreign attacks.

The reason that attracts globetrotters, however, is the well-preserved frescoes and paintings dating back to the 5th century. The portrayals of Lankan classic realism are supported by an elaborate structure – a lion’s open mouth as the entrance with beautiful tiles on the long limestone staircase.

Catch sight of the Big 4

The wildlife seeking sight inevitably turns towards the African continent, but it’s not the only available option. The wildlife and aquatic life are a testament to the natural heritage of Sri Lanka, now widely known and visited for the same. The big 4 – Leopard, Elephants, Koala Bear and the Blue and Sperm Whales are a must-see. A safari or camp night missed at Yala National Park, Udawalwe or Wilpattu National Parks will just follow inconsolable regret.