Ancient sites include Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya,
Dambulla, Panduwasnuwara and Yapahuwa. All these places contain
the remains of a great civilisation which grew through the centuries
under the influence of Buddhism, a gentle faith still preserved
in Sri Lanka in its purest form. Vast man-made lakes, large
parks, shrines, temples and monasteries speak eloquently of
the grandeur of the past and bear testimony to a cultured and
imaginative people. The regions in the following guide are used
for convenience only and have no administrative significance.
Colombo (Discount
Colombo Airfare)
Sri Lanka's capital is a fascinating city, blending its older
culture with modern Western influences. A palm-fringed drive
of 34km (21 miles) leads from the Katunayake (Colombo) International
Airport to Colombo.
Fort, so called as it was a military garrison during the Portuguese
and Dutch occupation from the 16th to the 18th century, today
is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Pettah, 2km (1 mile)
from Fort, is a busy bazaar area.
The Vihara Maha Devi Park, named after the mother of one of
Sri Lanka's greatest kings, is noteworthy for its collection
of beautiful flowering trees, a blossoming spectacle in March,
April and early May. The park is open daily until 2100 and is
well illuminated. The Parliament Building is at Sri Jayawardenepura,
Kotte. Other attractions include the Planetarium, the National
Zoological Gardens and several museums and art galleries. |
Sri Lanka Airport Guide
