Land of King Kubera – Lord of Wealth, known to have been
created by the divine sculptor and architect ‘Vishwakarma’ – Sri Lanka. With
history of more than 1,25,000 years or may be much more it is an island nation
well known for its bio diversity and natural wonders. Once inhabited by the
Vedda Tribal of which only around 2500 are known to be still there it is also
known to be abode of King Ravana and it is said that Lord Rama fought for her
concert Mata Sita here.
Tourism map of Sri Lanka |
One of the top 25 biodiversity hotspot of the world Sri
Lanka is well known for its Big 5 – Leopard, Sloth Bear, Elephant, Sperm whale
and Blue whale. 27% of its 3210 flowering plants and 22% of 113 mammal species
found here are endemic to this beautiful island nation. Although it has lost a
big part of its forests to growing population and modernisation in last few
decades still its natural beauty and wildlife is second to none. Government of
Sri Lanka has preserved its existing natural heritage under 24 national parks situated
in different part of the country. With 1585 Km of sea coast, 103 rivers, 45
estuaries, 40 lagoons and 7000 hectares of mangroves it is also a birding
paradise with 433 known species of birds of which around 240 are residents and
rest migratory.
Leopard are easy to spot in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka |
Sri Lanka is a treasure trove for wildlife enthusiasts and
nature lovers who can visit reserved forests spread over the island with some
famous ones being Yala national park, Minneriya national park, Kaudalla
National Parks, Uda Walawe National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Wilpattu
National Park, Wasgamuwa National Park, Kumana National Park, Bundala National
Park and Gal Oya National Park. Mirissa, Trincomalee and Kalpitiya are the best
places to spot both Blue whales (the largest mammal on earth) and Sperm whales.
Blue Whales can be spotted in Sea around Sri Lanka |
Visiting Sri Lanka is not limited to wildlife but this
island nation has history spread over the whole place. Archaeological
excavations have shown that the land was inhabited for thousands of years and
it is said that the remnants of Ramayana age can still be seen. Sri Lankan culture
is very rich and one of the oldest Buddhist settlements can also be seen here.
Vedda Tribal Community has inhabited Sri Lanka for Thousands of years |
So, if you want to enjoy wildlife, nature, culture and
history at a place just do not think just plan a trip just visit – Sri Lanka.