Explore Sri Lanka in 2 weeks

The ultimate 2-week adventure is waiting for you

Two weeks is not nearly enough time to see everything in Sri Lanka, but there is still plenty to do and experience on the island in that given time. There is no other place that has so many historical and protected sites to see than in Sri Lanka. You will find yourself spoiled for choice in terms of luxurious beaches, an array of amazing cuisines and you will find is easy to get lost in the islands majestic beauty and magical atmosphere that can transform your travel experience forever.

I will always tell people to rent a car Sri Lanka, as you can do what you want when you want to do it without stressing out about finding your next ride. And since my freedom to move about was of paramount importance to me I could not have traveled the length and breadth of the island without my trusty vehicle.

A step to step guide to help on your journey through Sri Lanka

The first stop on your 2-week journey should be in the capital of Colombo. Here you can explore the National Museum, Viharamahadevi Park, Pettah Market and the Galle Face Hotel. Take a few days to discover the vintage artifacts, mesmerizing markets and tasty food.

Mirissa is a great place to explore next with its laid-back atmosphere and pristine beaches it’s hard to not stat at least a few days here. You can swim enjoy great seafood and even explore the imagine villa hotel which is an amazing boutique hotel that goes out of its way to make you feel special. Drive down a little further and you will find your next beach paradise in Tangalle. The Serein beach hotel puts you right up where the action is on the beach and has a great deal for a 2-night stay.

The Yala National Park is just 2 hours away from Tangalle and has many wild animals like elephants, deers, crocodiles, leopards and colorful birds for you to see on safari. After your 2 night stay there you can take off to Ella were you can visit Nuwara Eliya, a tea and hiking village perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Next, you can drive to Kandy and spend 3 days there and see the temple of the sacred tooth relic (which has the tooth of Buddha) or even send a wonderful day at Kandy Lake and see the British garrison cemetery while you are there.

You should end your trip at Sigiriya or Lion Rock which was once the capital of Sri Lanka and still has magnificent sites to see. Yes, it takes quite a workout to climb all the way to the top but trust me when I say it’s very worth it when you see the view from above.

A few things to always remember and keep in mind when visiting Lanka.

You simply need to apply online for an ETA (electronic travel authorization) to enter the country, which you need to show to the immigration officer when you arrive in Sri Lanka.

Make sure that you have a valid driver’s license and your phones Gps is working properly as you will need it in the event that you rent a car Sri Lanka.

If you are like me and driving is too stressful in another country which has different rules, you can hire a driver like I did from Kings Rent a Car who knew all the roads and shortcuts.

It’s of vital importance that you choose the right car for you. You can choose anything from a large SUV to a compact car. I personally went with the Perodua Axia, it was way easier to find parking and travel light. But minivans and Luxury sedans can make a journey very fun and relaxing as well.

So that’s really all you need to know here’s what you really need to know and your all set to take off on a new adventure in Sri Lanka.

Foodies and Sri Lankans

Foodies will love this island of delights

Sri Lanka has so many delectable food and dishes which is why it’s known internationally as a food destination. 

With the multiple cultures residing and influencing this island, all foodies will love the deliciously rich cuisine that Sri Lanka offers all its visitors. I particularly enjoyed the Dutch and Portuguese flavors, but that's not all Sri Lanka has. You can find authentic English, Arab, Malay and Indian delicacies on the island too.

Being a food lover I had just one agenda on my list, how do I eat as much as I can in the time I have on the island. The solution was to take off on my food journey and choose car hire Colombo, which allowed me to travel on my terms and see the country while exploring its multiple cuisines.

Where to go and what to eat

Ministry of Crabs in the Iconic Dutch Hospital. 

It’s easy to find good curries anywhere in Sri Lanka, cafes and roadside are good, it’s always better to try the nightly buffet at Zion View in Ella. But for those who truly love seafood, I would really recommend that you eat at Ministry of crab in Colombo that has the freshest seafood on the island.

The islands tea capital, Nuwara Eliya is perfect for those elegant high teas with sandwiches, cakes and tasty tarts all which can be found at the St. Andrew’s Hotel.  I really enjoyed the tea and scones and which is a testament to how good the tea is as I am not really an avid tea drinker. The English influence can be further seen with the abundance of veggies like cabbage, carrots leeks and potatoes, along with strawberries and roses that were strewn across the hillsides.

You can find the Dutch and Portuguese delicacies like love cake which was simply divine and made with semolina, ground cashews and honey. The nutmeg, cinnamon and rosewater gave the dish freshness and made it smell mouthwatering. Dishes like Bolo Fiado(a layered pastry cake with dried fruit and syrup), Breudher(yeast cake with lots of butter) took me to another world and you should definitely hit Café Chill where you can eat the legendary Lamprais which is made with signature Dutch meatballs, veggies and rice slowly cooked in a banana leaf.

A Quarter Chicken Biriyani. 

You can find flatbreads and samosas at many Arab and Indian restaurants, but it’s the Wattalappam which has Malay influences and is made from jaggery coconut milk and cardamom that will take your breath away. The out of this world dessert can be found at Mama’s Galle Fort Roof Café and is well worth you driving done there to have a bite or simply indulge in Biriyani, found almost everywhere in the Island. 

But I really have to say that the two of my most favorite restaurants in Colombo were Chutneys which had an array of condiments to go with tradition Asian food and The Lagoon which had the best lobster I had ever had.

Living life on bite at a time

Having your own transportation in another country gives you the freedom and mobility to explore Sri Lanka at your own pace and comfort. This is why I rented a car from Kings Rent a Car and it really helped me stop where ever and whenever I wanted and let me discover amazing cafes and roadside food which may have gone undiscovered if I was travelling in a train or bus. I really feel that choosing a car hire form Colombo is the best way to discover the hidden treats that this sea kissed island has to offer. All you need is a valid license and you can speed off into the sunset and have the time of your life.

Why Sri Lanka is the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination?

Finally, you both are announced as ‘Man’ and ‘Wife’ and you can’t wait to hop on the nest flight to your honeymoon destination. But, this is the point where most couples get confused. Honeymoon is the most beautiful time after your wedding where you get a chance to know each other as husband and wife. Therefore, the selected location should be the one that would complement your romantic mood and would give you memories for life. Something like a trip to Sri Lanka. With various facilities like amazing five star resorts such as Cinnamon Grand Colombo and Tamarind Hill by Asia leisure along with services of car rental in Sri Lanka, this trip would, no doubt, become the most memorable trips for all.

Now, there are good chances that you and your partner may have different interests. Maybe you partner is more into adventure sports and you are into relaxing or he is into wildlife and you are into ancient ruins; Sri Lanka is one place on this earth that caters to your every desire. You want to see the beautiful ancient ruins, you can visit Kandy. Want to have fun with cute elephant calves? Then, visit the world famous Elephant Orphanage. And the nest part is yet to come: you don’t have to spend a fortnight for all this. These destinations can be easily covered within few days, thanks to services like Kings RentA Car. Now let us discuss places where you two lovebirds can visit while your honeymoon trip to Sri Lanka.

#1 Ella, Bandarawela:

After a hectic wedding schedule, every newly wedded couple deserves some alone, quality time and nothing beats the beautiful, quaint getaway called Ella. 

It is a small Sri Lankan mountain village surrounded by tea plantations. And nothing is more romantic than the train journey that crosses vast, bright green tea plantations, cloud covered hillocks and dense jungles.

#2 Nuwara Eliya:

Also known as the Little England of Sri Lanka, this little town still holds the charm of old British culture. 

With picture book red brick houses against the lush green backdrops, this place is simply perfect start for your love story. 

If both of you enjoys spending time with each other in the bode of Mother Nature, take a hike through the jungle and visit waterfalls such as Rawana falls and Lover’s Leap Fall that presents a sight to behold.

#3 Mirissa

Who doesn’t want to have a fairy tale wedding and fairy tale honeymoon? Well, you can have your picture perfect honeymoon at the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka, Mirissa.

Known as the most romantic honeymoon places, this is a secluded beach that offers the couple serenity and intimacy. Sit down together and gaze the setting sun while enjoying each other’s company. Trust us, nothing can be more beautiful than this.

#4 Kandy

Relax among the hills or simply explore the rich heritage. 

There are many couples who love to explore the culture and rich heritage of the natives. For such honeymooners, no place is better than Kandy.

Christened as the last royal capital, this is the abode to the Tooth Relic of Buddha. What else? You can also visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and have the best time with little elephant calves.

With that being said, now you know that apart from the mainstream honeymoon destinations, you also have some hidden jewels out there. And with services like car rental, Sri Lanka is slowly becoming one of the most popular honeymoon destination among couples. So if your friend is getting hitched, don’t forget to suggest this heaven to them as their honeymoon destination. 

Secrets of North Sri Lanka: An Uncharted Territory Welcoming Change

We all know how Sri Lanka has shot up the top of the list of ‘hot’ holiday destinations. Most probably, that’s why most of us are now booking flights, packing our bags, and searching for a car rental in Sri Lanka and so am I. It heaved me a sigh of relief to book KingsRent a Car for my travel expedition in Sri Lanka after so much of online research for a car rental service that suits my needs the best way. You, however, can choose any, based on your own needs and requirements.

Heading up high, the tropical island nation has certainly come a long way recovering from a civil war that lasted for almost three decades, and that’s exactly how my travel guide cum driver described the northern part of Sri Lanka – people with resilient souls, welcoming change as an unchartered territory.

An End to the Sad Reality

The northern part of Sri Lanka can be considered as the heartland of the minority Tamil and Hindu population in the nation of majority Buddhist and Sinhalese population. Going back in the history, being the minority population – the Tamils – demanded a discrimination-free and an equal treatment for themselves or you can say for the quarter of the nation. Every action has a reaction and consequentially, the rebellion led to a prolonged civil war, which as I earlier told, lasted for nearly three decades. The civil war came to a point where the extreme rebel guerrillas of the Liberation Tigers of the Tamil Eelam (LTTE) got defeated by the military of Sri Lanka. Only the bravest ventured out of the dark. Sad it is, however, that it resulted in a massacre of tens of thousands.

Turns out, in this case, it was all about the happy ending when a new pro-reconciliation government in Colombo and minority Tamil-based parties in provinces came in power. Sri Lanka as a nation and Tamil-majority areas are in process of normalcy and that’s good news for all the wanderers who are craving to explore Sri Lanka’s northern soul.

Beyond Past and a Forgotten Civil War – Idyllic Beaches and Tiny Isles, Urging You to Visit

My travel guide cum driver, Sid, told me how a lot has changed since those dark days. Since the northern part has been reborn, many people are turning to tourism. From the hotels springing up and military bases that have been revamped into wildlife parks and nature resorts, the place has now declared peace and people got a new lease of life. Not to forget that the former battlefields are now transformed to family-friendly seaside getaways. Having that said, you’ll experience Jaffna like any other city on the subcontinent.

Tourist Attractions

Jaffna

I found Jaffna a very vibrant and lively place. You can’t forget a pleasant morning waking up to melodious bells of the Nallur temple ringing across the rooftops, can you? I never will, for a matter of fact, forget that soulful melody. The city is quite loud and proud. Nothing can describe the place better than these two words – chaotic and exotic. The driver by the car rental services I hired in Sri Lanka, went an extra mile telling me how he finds the beating of the drums and honking of horns an addition to the cacophony. Witnessing the holy men in billowing white robes and ladies in bright saris while weaving through the traffic, listed below are the places that turned out as tourist attractions to me:

•  Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple

• Jaffna Fort

• Jaffna Public Library

• Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil

• St. Mary’s Cathedral

• Former Kachcheri

• Jaffna Archaeological Museum 

• Jummah Mosque

• Our Lady of Refuge Church

• Sri Nagavihara International Buddhist Centre

Things to do in Jaffna.

I inquired with my driver from Kings Rent a Car, the car rental services I opted for my visit in Sri Lanka, what else should I be doing here, so that I do not regret not being able to admire the place enough? He was quite acquainted with the place, which is one of the reasons I chose these services in the first place. So, he took me on a ride to:

See the sights at Jaffna’s charming market.

·      Enjoy the sight of fishing boats, calm seas and quiet beaches while riding along the coastal roads in the Jaffna peninsula. 

     In case you go in March of odd-numbered years, attending biennial Jaffna Musical Festival is a mist-go event. You’ll witness folk music and dance forms that have been kept safe and sustained by families in the North and East over generations.

Trincomalee

The next day, as soon as I got up, we left for Trincomalee. One of the world’s finest natural anchorages, Trincomalee is a historic city. Sid told me how he has visited the town plenty of times and praised its charm, and also how he is surprised that people do not recognize it and just pass through it on their way to the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli.

Things to do at Trincomalee

·        Whale watching

·        Dolphin watching

·        Visit The large Lord Shiva statue at Konneshwaram temple.

    Additional places to visit can be – natural harbour, Commonwealth war cemetery, local Dutch lounges, Trinco market area

Oh! I fell in love with this tear- shaped country. The colourful beauty and the welcoming people made me feel privileged.  Why do you love Sri Lanka’s northern soul? Have you been there? If not, when are you planning your trip? Let us know in the comment section below. 

The Iconic Galle Fort: Capturing the attention on Tourists, Explorers, Conquerors and Economies since 1588

Galle Fort, a formidable remnant of history,  is brightly washed by a vibrant history and culture. A constant draw, it has pulled conquerors, colonialist and tourists alike, throughout the different phases of time.

We  took a car hire away from Colombo to find out what it has to offer.  Here’s why we think you should include it into your travel itinerary.

Explore the fort’s side of history.

Built by the Portuguese, name after the Dutch, the iconic Galle Fort, stands as a testimonial to colonial rule. Bound by the sea on the three sides of its high walls, it fell into the hands of the British, before it was finally handed over to the then liberated Ceylon. 

As such, the fort encloses some striking landmarks which are worth a visit:

Travelling from Colombo to Galle

A bus or a train ride on the Southern Expressway could easily take 3 hours. You could also  rent a car  from Colombo with rental services like Kings Rent a Car and save some extra travelling time.

National Maritime Museum

Artefacts from shipwrecks, old maps, artillery from older times  makes the maritime museum  a define stop for lovers of history and art.

Churches

The Galle Fort, which has earned a recognition as a  UNESCO Heritage site, is also the site for  some of Sri Lanka’s oldest churches, namely, the All Saints Church, and the De Groote Kerk.

The Galle Fort Light House

This is perhaps the most  iconic structure of the iconic Galle fort. The scenic view of the setting sun from the top of the fort is a breathe-stopper.  Separate put some time from your evening to  walk along the fort ramparts, starting at the light house. You will thank us later! 

Shop at one of the Most Bustling Shopper's Streets

The Galle Fort is a lot more than just history, though. At one point, a bustling point for trade and commerce, today it has a thriving market for handicrafts, gems and souvenirs.

 Find something unique to take back home at:

Stick No Bills

Pop by Stick No Bills for collectibles. Find original hand painted movie posters for a couple of dollars. A little expensive than the norm, it still is a unique stop to find old postcards, posters and prints.

Barefoot Gallery

The handloom galore with a couple of outlets in the more elite streets of the country, Barefoot  offers a bright collection of gifts that markedly express Sri Lanka’s heritage.

The Old Dutch Hospital

One of the oldest buildings in the Fort, you can spend a good couple of hours in any of its renovated restaurants or coffee shops, or simply shop for brilliant curios to take home. From gems to handicrafts, you can find a wide choice of products to fit your budget and taste.

For the love of Beaches

Galle's beautiful beaches are compellingly beautiful. If nothing,  the beaches at Unawatuna made our expedition on car hire away from Colombo worth the time and money. Make sure to include them in your itinerary too!

After all the Travel, Enjoy a good Meal

For connoseiurs of food the Galle Fort offers a vivid plate of delectable.  Grab a bite from its many restaurants. These are our favorites:

Boutique Cafe
63 Church Street, Fort

A dainty little restaurant,it is a perfect retreat to enjoy a great meal and relax

The Tuna and the Crab

Galle Dutch Hospital,  Galle Fort

As rave reviews scream out loud, this Japanese restaurant run by Sri Lanka’s top chef Darshan Munidasa has some mouthwatering sea food to offer.

Peddlar’s Inn Gellato

61, Peddlar St, Galle Fort

Escape the summer heat with some ice cream from Peddlar’s.

When your day ends, Retreat away to Rest

Finally, if you must rest check in at the some the hotels around Galle Fort. Here are our picks:

Amangalla

10, Church Street, Galle Fort

A unique colonial property with warm service and a cozy atmosphere Amangalla tops our list.

Hotel Dandelion

A few kilometers ride from the fort, Hotel Dandelion is an affordable stay near the Unawatuna beach.

What is the best time to Visit Galle?

Make it a tropical date with your loved ones in February.

Galle would be sprinkled with rain between May and September. Plan your calendar depending on your  towards the weather.

Must Read if you are travelling down South in Sri Lanka

 A drive down the Southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka is one of the best road trips you could make in the island. Southern Sri Lanka is a hotchpotch of colonial history tossed around into an easy-going coastal culture. From beaches to wildlife, and century-old lighthouses to curries doused in spice, from Galle to Tangalle a rush of culture greets you at the door.

Travelling to Southern Sri Lanka

Set out by dawn, before sunrise if you are heading down south. Rev up the engine a little early even if you intend on car hire. Colombo gets packed with vehicles once morning sets in. So it is always better to get away from the city soon as possible. One reason why I get on the road early is the effect the dew touched sunlight has on the surrounding.

One of the finest rides I’ve had was along the Colombo-Matara expressway. The journey would take you an hour and half on the highway.  A continuous stretch of green paddy accompanies you on both sides of the road. Travelling by trains has a unique flavour to it too. I shuffle between my travelling options, now and then. I had once hired a car with Kings Rent a Car when I wanted to take the high road down south.  The rides downtown are a fresh break from the city any day, whichever the mode of transport.

If you are travelling on a budget, the cheaper way of getting by would be by train or bus. Though trains are an option, you would have to plan your trip around the train schedule, book your train tickets early, in Sri Lanka, railway travel requires proper planning. A more convenient option are the buses. You can easily board one that leaves to Galle or Matara from the main bus stand at Pettah.

What does the South have to offer?

Beaches! Apart from Nilavelli in the North, most of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches are lined along the southern sea border. Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Tangalle to name a few. Endowed with a rich colonial history, these coastal wraps are lined with some of the most iconic lighthouses in the country. Featured on stamps, these hundred-year-old towers are of considerable touristic interest today.

This strip of land beats other parts of the island by the sheer vibrancy it offers. Kataragama with its religious significance, Mulgirigala-an ancient cave temple in Tangalle, Yala with its dense leopard population and Mirissa popular for whale watching activities, make up only a part of its colourful spectrum.

Coconut trees slant towards the Indian Ocean drawing an arc around the island. Idle for most parts, the quiet of the gushing waves catch up with you. It is surprising how in spite of the huge volume of travellers, the place has retained the slow ebb to its coastal life.

Where to eat?

Eat crab!  A combination of Sri Lankan hoppers with the eggs yellow sitting at its centre and fish oozing with the fresh flavours of the sea is a must try. If you love seafood, this is your food heaven.

 Food goes a long way in making your travel experiences memorable. If you have been on the road from four in the morning, I highly recommend stopping at Matara Florence Bakery to enjoy a wonderful spread of Sri Lankan breakfast.

For lunch, ask the locals at Matara for Saman Buffet. You wouldn’t be disappointed.

Where to stay?

After a long ride and numerous stops along the way, I generally pamper myself with comfort and luxury. If you had taken a car hire, Colombo left far behind, almost a recently forgotten memory, indulging a little more wouldn’t hurt. The Owl and the Pussy Cat is a quirky stay if you are feeling a little light-headed. You could camp in a luxury beach tent or retreat to a classy night cap at Cape Weligama. You wouldn’t want lazy air hovering around you to dissipate immediately.

What’s better than a glass of sherry with a view of the golden Ocean as the sun sinks down until tomorrow?

Head South, if you want the experience the true coastal feel of Sri Lanka. 

Hidden Secrets within a 2.5 hour drive from Colombo

Sri Lanka sits cosily on the tourism map. A vibrant and colourful island, it is lathered both in history and cultural richness. For a country, its size it is adorned with beaches, tropical forests, hills and more. It is no surprise that an hour’s ride from Colombo yields scenic respites. There is so much waiting to be discovered.

Here is our list of what you could do in a day around Colombo.

Explore Sri Lanka in a Tuk : In and around Colombo

Tuk tuk ride in Sri Lanka

Weave through the zig-zagging curves of Colombo. With the roads being packed to the maximum with incoming and outgoing vehicles, tuks squeeze their way more easily through the city’s traffic. Learn a little bit of the country’s history at the National Museum or slip away to the far end of the city to see staggering collection of Buddhist statues at Gangaramaya.  Make sure to visit the old market at Pettah.  Don’t miss the floating markets which is a just a hop away for a boat ride and souvenirs. For nature enthusiasts, the Beddagana Wetland Park is a surprising retreat at a 30 minute ride from the bustling crowd of Pettah.  End your day on a leisurely note with the sun sinking down into the Indian Ocean the Galle Face amidst some breeze and array of lipsmacking street food.

Make Multiple Stops down South for Beaches and Sea Food

Street Food Vendor on the Beach.

Romance with Sri Lanka’s brilliant beaches and seafood with a drive down south. Taking the southern expressway is the fastest way to reach Hikkaduwa and its neighbouring Galle. On our last visit we had made the trip with Kings Rent a Car, stopping by at Kosgoda to marvel at baby turtles reared at the conservatories. Further down, you would be in Ambalongoda, famous for the iconic traditional Sri Lankan masks you often come across at the airport. 

Grab a light meal of Beef Brisket Sliders and Iced Milo from Salty Swamis Café and Surf Shop at Hikkaduwa before continuing your journey towards Galle. You might be lucky enough to witness the stilt fishermen waiting patiently for their prey. Wind the evening with a climb up the Galle Fort, built during the colonial era, at for a panoramic view of the landscape below followed by dinner at Church Street Social, before you bring the day to a fine closure.

Take the train uphill towards the city of Kings

The signature of Kandy; lush green Vegetation, hills in the distance
and the perfect weather as the train arrives in Kandy.

Kandy’s scenic vistas are best experienced on a crawl uphill from the observation carriage in a train; as against bus rides or car rental. Sri Lanka takes special pride in this hill country which was once a Royal city. Alternative to the train a drive will take you exactly two and a half hours of you smartly choose an off peak hour to drive. 

Start at the Mawanella Spice Garden before visiting the Tea Museum at Hantane for a quick round up on the history of Ceylon tea. Head towards the Garrison cemetery, the resting ground for nearly 150 British colonial officers. A striking observation to be made is how most officials died young at a healthy age in their forties. Continue to ponder upon death with a visit to Helga’s Folly, a quirky little chalet that celebrates and death through a chaotic riot of colours. 

Allow yourself to immerse in the maverick of figures adorning its walls before you take off. Perhaps a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic would be an ideal way to contemplate on the different perspectives of life and death, while exploring its magnificence. 

Bring your day to a gradual end with a walk along the Kandy Lake, as you let yourself be taken over by the serene and calming effects of its water, glistening in the moonlight. 

Family Holiday in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is blessed with a naturally beautiful coastline, tranquil seas, the sunshine, cool highlands and friendly people making Sri Lanka an outstanding family holiday location. Sri Lanka is a destination that offers various exciting attractions and activities for families on holiday such as wildlife and jeep safaris, dolphin and whale watching, rafting, and relaxing on tropical beaches that will definitely be memorable for everyone.

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean is a wonderful holiday place for children of all ages. There is so much to experience, whether it is seeing an elephant in the wild for the first time, spotting a blue whale in Mirissa, learning how rice grows, discovering the health properties of spices and rainforest plants, taking a tour of the tea plantations or understanding the basic ideas behind Buddhism by visiting some of the island’s temples, Sri Lanka offers you endless attractions to keep any individual of any age enthralled.

In addition, you could take a ride in a Hot Air Balloon, go for a walk in the Horton Plains National Park and see World’s End or visit the elephant orphanage in Pinnawala. Most of the hotels and villas in the country are equipped to welcome families with fantastic facilities, and gracious, qualified staff. The concept of family is as significant in Sri Lanka as anywhere else and actually, enriches your journey through the island with your children and loved ones.

If you are considering a family holiday in Sri Lanka with older children, there are plenty of other adventure activities to try. These include white water rafting in Kithulgala, which was used as filming location for the movie 'Bridge over the River Kwai'. Another wonderful way of truly discovering Sri Lanka is walking through the Knuckles Mountain Range where you will encounter remote villages and waterfalls with stunning views. Families who are interested in history and culture will find their imagination coming alive in Sri Lanka’s ancient cities. Anuradhapura is home to sacred dagobas and Sigiriya Rock Fortress is also fascinating as you can immerse yourself in the history of King Kashyapa, who lived there in the 5th century.

Begin your most memorable holiday ever by traveling to one of the best tropical cities in the world. There are many travel options available varying from public transport to private Car Hire. Colombo based rent a car service provider; Kings Rent A Car offers their clients attractive rates which will help make their stay a memorable one with the opportunity to discover an absolutely incredible diversity of landscapes, climates and activities in Sri Lanka.

Discover the Sacred City of Anuradhapura

Being a person in whose veins wanderlust flows along with blood, it becomes quite hard to remain in a single place for long. So this winter, I packed my stuff and took a flight to Sri Lanka. Yeah, I know you would be wondering why Sri Lanka among all other places. But trust me folks; it is one of the best places I have ever visited. And I won’t mind going back again to relive those moments. Before starting with the whole booking process, while I was researching about the various places that I can scribble down in my travel diary, I stumbled upon a city named Anuradhapura and I decided to make this beautiful place my next destination.

Anuradhapura - Where do I even begin to talk about this magical place! It seems that the city has kept its ancient jewels hidden from the prying eyes of visitors and travellers for decades with the rich, green foliage. Suffused in a legacy of luxuriant history, every nook and corner of this city have a story to be told. This place is full of ruins of ancient temples, monasteries, and museums. What makes this city stand apart from rest of the heritage place is easy accessibility. You can easily rent a car in Sri Lanka to reach Anuradhapura from the capital city of Colombo. Kings Rent A Car is one of the few car rental companies that allowed me to do a real-time online booking, so I quickly locked in my reservation for my three-day stay in Anuradhapura.

1. Sri Maha Bodhi: This place actually deserves the number one spot on the list, as your trip to Anuradhapura is incomplete without paying homage to the 2000 years old, sacred tree. It is an offspring of a tree whose cutting was brought from the Indian soils. This place not only offers spiritual peace but also physical relaxation.  
2. Abhayagiri Dagoba: Abhayagiri Dagoba or Fearless Hill is one of the largest structures of the ancient world with the Pyramids of Giza as its only companion when it comes to the size and vastness. The very first view of this place left me with awe; a giant brick structure of bricks playing peekaboo with you in the green forest is simply stunning. 
3. Reservoirs: The city is an adobe of three large reservoirs; the oldest being constructed approximately around 4th century BC. The reservoir on the east side or popularly known as Nuwara Wewa is the largest one. Tissa Wewa - the reservoir on the south side, is spread over a sprawling area of 160 hectares. The oldest one is Basawakkulama and is situated on the north side. These reservoirs are a sight to behold and can be easily approached by car.
4. Archaeological Museum:  Rent a car in Sri Lanka and visit the famous archaeological museum in Anuradhapura. The variety of carvings, artworks and daily household items of ancient times that were collected from ancient sites would definitely leave your mouth open in surprise.  This place houses some of the most interesting artefacts that include a relic chamber and intricately carved squatting plates.  

When you are at a place like Anuradhapura, explaining your experiences actually becomes difficult. This place keeps you on your toes and you are not in a position to complain as it opens you to a whole new realm of wonders. So take out your travel diary and add Anuradhapura on your bucket list!