Introduction
The tiny island Sri Lanka places itself firmly in Indian Ocean just beneath the extreme tip of South India. Known by many appellations like Serendib, Ceylon, Teardrop of India, Resplendent Isle, Island of Dharma and Pearl of the Orient, this tiny Island is strongly associated with the Indian historical epic of Ramayana. Srilanka is renowned for its diverse aquatic, avial and wildlife; serene and beautiful beaches; tea plantations and the Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimages.

The entire island is teeming with wide variety of indigenous and migratory bird species and is known for the large populations of elephants and leopards. As Marco Polo said that "Sri Lanka the finest island of its size in all the world"; Colombo, the capital city and the largest city of Sri Lanka offers palm-lined sandy expanses for the tourists. The ancient architecture in the cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa satisfy the archaeologists and historians. The best season to visit the west and south coasts is from December to March and from May to September on the east coast. The coral reefs at the beaches and seaside create a lot of thrill for the tourists and make swimming quite feasible at places like Hikkaduwa.

The south-western coast in Sri Lanka is a swimming paradise. Wide scope of scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing at Hikkaduwa; snorkelling at Unawatuna, and sailing, windsurfing and water skiing on the Bentota River keep you fulfilled in case of water sports. The famous trekking trail is that of Adam's Peak or walking down the strange silent plateau of Horton Plains near Nuwara Eliya.

Anuradhapura is a potent symbol of Sinhalese power and the most ancient city of Sri Lanka. Its origin goes back to 380 BC with a powerful reign of Sinhalese kings that continued for over 1000 years. The Sacred Bo-Tree is the city's holiest site, and said to be grown from the bud of the original tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. The oldest of many temples in Anuradhapura, the Thuparama Dagoba is believed to contain the right collarbone of Buddha. The Jetavanarama Dagoba is the largest remaining structure that used to house an estimated 3000 monks. There are also museums in the city. The best way to explore the nook and corner of the city is through bicycle riding.

The port of Galle illustrates the Dutch presence in Sri Lanka during the bygone days. The Dutch Fort built in 1663 has withstood the ravages of time. The Dutch houses, museums and churches are the major points of attraction in Galle. The tourists also throng the fine beaches at Unuwatuna, Weligama and Tangalla every year. Hikkaduwa is the island's most developed beach resort. The place is full of snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing opportunities. The coral sanctuary nearby is also a must visit. Plenty of handicraft shops, a Buddhist temple and a nearby lake with abundant bird life are other tourist attractions. Sigiriya is a rock fortress with a rock art gallery housing the exclusive collection of antique artifacts.