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caves, leopard utopias, ancient ruins, majestic beaches – Sri Lanka has it all.
TEA COUNTRY BY TRAIN
One of the best ways to enjoy Sri Lanka's
exotic terrain is by rail. You'll skirt the edge of
mountains and travel past leafy tea planations,
stopping to try the local brew en route to Nuwara
Eliya. Peering out the large observation windows is
to experience a child-like delight – that wonderful
feeling of fresh air against your cheeks as your
train winds through the heart of the country.
ABUNDANT WILDLIFE
The biodiversity of Sri Lanka is overwhelming.
It's as if the best of Africa, India and Southeast
Asia fused into one animal lover's dreamland.
Elephant, buffalo, sloth bears and exotic birds
are all found in Yala National Park, which is also
said to have the highest leopard concentration
in the world. Keep a watchful eye – you're likely
to spot one.
LIFE ON THE SPICE ISLAND
Deemed the finest island in the world by Marco
Polo, Sri Lanka continues to seduce travellers.
Thick warm air, lush landscapes and a profusion
of teas and spices add to the allure. And perhaps
stemming from the country's merchant past,
the locals are ever-friendly and helpful. After a
tumultuous modern history, Sri Lanka has taken on
a new identity and is today bursting with energy.