There’s a fascinating world looming in South Asia, composed of countries of a wealthy historical heritage, prominent traditions and overwhelming natural beauty. There are vast lands of civilizations to explore, which time and space cannot easily exhaust, and then there’s Sri Lanka, a country so small yet so undeniably rich.
The Jewel of Asia, as it is popularly known, offers a travel experience like none other. Within only 25,000 square miles, the island of Sri Lanka – home to an astonishing 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – offers an abundance of activities and natural wonders for any kind of traveler.
From left to right: Sri Lankan Airlines Sr. Vice President Dillan Ariyawansa, Chairman Mr. Nishantha Wickremasinghe, myself, Dr Wije Kottahachchi and Ambassador General Shavendra Silva
Having never been to Sri Lanka before, I was honored to attend last month’s reception hosted by the Mission of Sri Lanka to the U.N. at the request of Ambassador Dr Palitha Kohona, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the U.N. The event promoted tourism in Sri Lanka, honoring Mr. Nishantha Wickremasinghe, Chairman of Sri Lankan Airlines. It was my opportunity to learn why Lonely Planet rated Sri Lanka as the best place to visit in 2013, right from the source.
The moment we were greeted by the girls beautifully dressed in traditional Sri Lankan dresses, along with the elegant Sri Lankan Airlines stewardesses, I felt as if I had entered an entirely different world: a realm of mesmerizing customs and warmhearted hospitality. The Sri Lankan dances, the bright colors and lush fabrics, the tasty foods, all made for a gratifying night, a compelling glimpse into its world.
Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the U.N. Ambassador Dr Palitha Kohona
Listening to Dr Kohona’s presentation, it was evident Sri Lanka’s economic development is at an all time record growth. Tourism intake exceeded 1 million in 2012, and is expected to rise to 2.5 million by 2015. So much so that Sri Lanka will host the World Youth Conference in 2014.
What does Sri Lanka have to offer?
The answer is simple: everything.
Without a pinch of modesty, Sri Lanka is the ultimate tropical destination, one in which summer is never a source of nostalgia, rather a cause of perpetual joy.
Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches are legendary for untouched sands, blue waters, and incredible marina life.
For culture enthusiasts, its history dates back 2,500 years, with preserved ruins of palaces and Buddhist temples revealing an impressive architectural genius and artistic flair, as well as a wealth of Dutch, Portuguese and British influences.
For the nature lovers, there is everything from hazy mountains to tropical rainforests to incredible wildlife and lush waterfalls.
For adventure lovers, activities abound from rock-climbing, trekking, mountain biking, canoeing, whitewater rafting and surfing.
And so, here I am, fantasizing for my seat on Sri Lankan Airlines – Central Asia’s Airline of the Year for four years running – to take me to ride the elephants and explore the wildlife, run on the pristine beaches and swim in the blue waters, meditate at the Buddhist temples, get lost in the ancient palaces, hike the misty mountains, explore the tropical rainforests and tea plantations, dive unto the underwater kingdom, get soaked under lush waterfalls, and so much more …
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Here are more pictures from the Sri Lankan Tourism event:
Mr. Nishantha Wickremasinghe, Chairman of Sri Lankan Airlines
The Sri Lankan officials from left to right: Ambassador General Shavendra Silva, Sri Lankan Airlines Sr Vice President Dillan Ariyawansa, Chairman Mr. Nishantha Wickremasinghe and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the U.N Ambassador Dr Palitha Kohona
Images courtesy of Sagara Lakmal De Mel & Dilup Nanayakkara
