CNN travel editors have selected Sri Lnaka as one of the best places to visit calling it an essential destination.
It also made a special note for its readers not to miss the Kandy Esala Perahera the annual festival of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Although Sri Lanka is known for its sandy beaches CNN travel says that tourists should take a tour inland and truly immerse themselves in the rich history and culture.
“Start in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the country’s capital in the 12th century. This UNESCO Heritage site is comprised of the ruins of Buddhist temples and dagobas (dome-shaped shrines) and is frequented by Buddhist monks in orange robes.”
“A little over an hour to the west by car is the rock fortress, Sigiriya. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, this ancient volcanic formation that soars over 200 metres (656 feet) high was developed into a palace fortress in the latter half of the 5th century. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya is one of the most-visited landmarks in Sri Lanka.”
It also advised tourists not to miss Minneria where herds of wild elephants migrate to the shores of an ancient reservoir in the north central Sri Lanka.