Sri Lanka
Off the coast of southern India, Sri Lanka is a gem endowed with an exceptional heritage, unspoiled natural landscapes and heavenly beaches.
Known as Ceylon up until 1972, the island is justly proud of being home to many Unesco-ranked sites. You will admire the historic cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, and the more recent colonial edifices of Colombo, the capital, and of Galle. Predominantly Buddhist, the island is dotted with ancient sanctuaries, such as the Palace of the Relic of the Tooth at Kandy or Buduruvegala, where immense statues of Buddha have been carved into the rock.
Next immerse yourself in the exuberant countryside, dominated by spectacular rocky escarpments in the heart of the island. Yala National Park provides refuge for elephants and leopards, while Sinharaja nature reserve echoes to the song of exotic birds, without forgetting the carefully tended tea plantations. To appreciate all these treasures at their best, climb to the top of Adam's Peak or go hiking in Horton Plains National Park.
Finally set sail for Arugam Bay or Unawatuna, two superlative beaches among many others, where you can enjoy the pleasures of the seaside.
Known as Ceylon up until 1972, the island is justly proud of being home to many Unesco-ranked sites. You will admire the historic cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, and the more recent colonial edifices of Colombo, the capital, and of Galle. Predominantly Buddhist, the island is dotted with ancient sanctuaries, such as the Palace of the Relic of the Tooth at Kandy or Buduruvegala, where immense statues of Buddha have been carved into the rock.
Next immerse yourself in the exuberant countryside, dominated by spectacular rocky escarpments in the heart of the island. Yala National Park provides refuge for elephants and leopards, while Sinharaja nature reserve echoes to the song of exotic birds, without forgetting the carefully tended tea plantations. To appreciate all these treasures at their best, climb to the top of Adam's Peak or go hiking in Horton Plains National Park.
Finally set sail for Arugam Bay or Unawatuna, two superlative beaches among many others, where you can enjoy the pleasures of the seaside.
