Tourism in Sri Lanka is growing rapidly. For centuries, Sri Lanka has been a popular place of attraction for foreign travelers. The Chinese traveler Fa-Hien visited Sri Lanka as early as the 410’s AD/CE, and in the twelfth century, Italian explorer Marco Polo claimed Sri Lanka to be the “best island of its size in the world”.The government initiatives in development of tourism date back to 1937 when the Ceylon Tourist Bureau was established. However, it was closed down in September 1939 due to World War II. After Sri Lanka’s independence the promotion of tourism was again considered by re-establishing the Ceylon Tourist Board which took over the function of the Tourist Bureau.
In 1965, J. R. Jayewardene as Minister of State initiated the first major development of the tourism industry with the Ceylon Tourist Board Act No 10 of 1966 and the Ceylon Hotels Corporation Act No 14 of 1966, which formed the Ceylon Tourist Board and the Ceylon Hotels Corporation. Since then the Ceylon Tourist Board has functioned as the state agency, responsible for development and promotion of the tourism sector in Sri Lanka. Ceylon Hotels Corporation paved the way government investments build hotels needed to attract tourist.In October 2007 according to Section 2 of the Tourism Act No. 38 of 2005, the Sri Lanka Tourist Board (Act No 10 of 1966) was replaced by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.The tropical climate, beautiful beaches and incredible food of Sri Lanka are just some of the many reasons to include the South Asian country on your travel wish list. In this island nation known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, you can learn of its ancient history by visiting the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle, witness a giant gathering of Asian elephants in Minneriya National Park or catch some waves at Arugam Bay or Hikkaduwa.Sri Lanka is a great place to visit for water sport and wildlife enthusiasts and a haven for history buffs. As well as a guide to some of the best things to see and do in Sri Lanka, we’ve picked a selection of places to stay to help you put together your travel plan.Some of the best places to visit in sri Lanka are
1.Galle Dutch Fort, Galle- Located in Sri Lanka’s southern province, it is the ideal little romantic place to visit with your significant other. The charming streets are packed with cozy cafés, astonishing heritage hotels, and many day trails for couples.
- Sigiriya- It is also known as the Lion’s Rock where you can take a stroll and enjoy the view of breathtaking water fountains, gardens, and canals. The place also lets you experience the best sunrise and sunset experience after a climb.
- Nuwara Eliya- Popularly known as “Mini England” by the natives, Nuwara Eliya boasts chilly weather and spectacular views of majestic waterfalls, lush green mountains, and dewy tea-states. It is a perfect destination for couples seeking to spend quality time.
- Mirissa Beach- It offers a picturesque view of the stunning sunrise and sunsets. You can also take part in snorkeling at this beach or witness dolphins while enjoying a chilled beverage or scrumptious snacks.
5.Yala National Park -It was originally a hunters arena during British colonial rule but now has the highest population of leopards on earth. Not only animals but it also provide a quaint environment for birds as well. It is Sri Lanka’s largest national park with a total area of 900 Sq Km. 6.Kandy -It is a prominent Sri Lankan city found precisely in the middle of the country. A city of both historical as well as religious importance, Kandy is renowned for being the site of the Temple Of The Sacred Tooth Relic, unarguably the most famous among all the temples of Sri Lanka. 7.Mirissa- It was a faint old beach town on the Southern of Sri Lanka has risen to be one of the most popular surfing and whale watching destination. The beach town is situated 150 kms south of Colombo and is dotted with palm trees, blue waters and colourful boats adorning the shores
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