The beauty of Srilanka unfolded each day, weaving a tapestry of mountains, waterfalls, lakes, trekking adventures, and gorgeous green valleys. My fearless exploration continued, each day presenting a fresh adventure, a new landscape, and a renewed sense of motivation. As I bid farewell to Nuwara Eliya, a place etched in my heart, the anticipation of discovering Kandy, the cultural gem of Srilanka, fueled my excitement.
Kandy, often hailed as Srilanka’s Summer Capital, isn’t merely an attractive town; it’s a vibrant hub of culture and holistic experiences. The journey from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy promised a shift from the enchanting landscapes to the rich cultural tapestry that defines this captivating town.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 1400ft above sea level, Kandy enjoys a pleasant climate and is cradled by the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s largest. My exploration began at the sprawling Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a haven for plant enthusiasts. As I strolled through the vast expanse, adorned with wooded plants, florae, towering palm trees, orchids, spices, and water plants, I found myself immersed in the tranquility of this green sanctuary.
The irony, however, lay in the fact that the garden seemed to be a haven for couples. In my quest for capturing the beauty around me, I stumbled upon a romantic pair. Lamenting the absence of my tripod, I hesitated to disturb their moment but ultimately found myself seeking the guy’s assistance to capture a few snapshots. The lady, though slightly amused by the interruption, graciously allowed her companion to fulfill my request.
After a rejuvenating stroll through the garden, I embraced the therapeutic touch of a Srilankan Ayurvedic Spa Center. A holistic massage, priced at 3000 Srilankan rupees, or 1500 INR, proved to be a worthwhile investment, offering relaxation after a day filled with exploration.
Post-massage, I indulged in some souvenir shopping in Kandy and tried on a Kandyan saree for a few clicks, embracing the local culture. The subsequent return to Hotel Peak Residence revealed a perfect view of Kandy from the peak of a small hill. Dining by the beautiful river and embarking on a small boat ride presented a unique experience, immersing me in a world surrounded by lush green nature.
Decked in traditional attire, I prepared for the pilgrimage visit to the “Temple of the Tooth,” one of the world-famous Buddhist destinations. This sacred temple, nestled within a majestic castle complex safeguarding Buddha’s Tooth, held intriguing historical significance. As per ancient beliefs, whoever possessed this relic held the power to rule the country. Respecting the temple’s dress code, I adorned a black saree, resembling a typical Tamil girl. The Temple of the Tooth stood as the largest Buddhist temple I had encountered in Srilanka, with a profound history and cultural significance.
Observing the temple’s rituals and traditions, I met a Srilankan female cop who commented on my appearance, mistaking me for a Sinhalese girl. The cultural exchange and warm reception from the locals made the visit even more special. The unique juxtaposition of “Culture & Nature” in Kandy created an unforgettable experience, a harmonious blend of tranquility and vibrant traditions.
"Strolling through tranquility, my attention could never break off from the beauty of this environment transporting to a different ecosphere in a world enclosed by “culture & nature”, a very unique experience!"
“Srilanka Culturals”
“Srilankan Paintings”
“Kandyan Saree”
“Tooth Relic of Buddha”
“Peredeniya Botanical Garden”
“Buddha Temple”
Adventure Continues…Beauty Vs Beast – Me With Mother Nature’s Majestic Masterpiece!
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2.Srilankan Adventure ~ Embarking On The Journey
In that moment, a profound realization dawned on me – solo travel isn't about being truly alone. Instead, it unveils opportunities to cross paths with incredible individuals, forging connections that resonate long after the journey concludes.
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1.Escaping From The Heat & Fear ~ Embarking On A Solo Adventure
Embracing the uncertainty of this first-time solo adventure, I took the phone number of a friendly face at the counter, providing reassurance that Sri Lanka is indeed a safe haven.“SRILANKA IS A VERY SAFE PLACE AND NOT TO WORRY ABOUT
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3. Colombo Unveiled: A Day Of Exploration And Transformation
In that moment, I embraced the transformative power of a makeover. It was not bound by rules or dictated by perfect timing; it was a personal choice to look and feel like myself—more radiant, more confident, and simply better.
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4. Exploring Cultural Splendour: Gangaramaya Temple In Colombo
First on my list was the quest for the perfect hat—a fashionable companion for my Sri Lankan adventures. Colombo's shopping landscape unfolded before me, offering an array of choices that blended traditional charm with modern allure.
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5.Immersing Into Nature’s Elegance: A Majestic Journey Along The Maadu Ganga River
Navigating through the gentle currents, the boat carried me to the point where the river gracefully embraced the open sea. This juncture, where freshwater and saltwater converged, painted a breathtaking tableau.
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6.A Seaside Sojourn: Bentota’s Enchanting Embrace
Evenings were reserved for strolls along the beach, where the sea, in all its grandeur, whispered tales of timeless romance. Each sunset was a masterpiece, a canvas painted with hues of warmth and tranquility—a visual symphony that resonated with the
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7. Into The Wild: A Spine-chilling Odyssey In Sinharaja Rain Forest
Amidst the towering trees and vibrant flora, we reached an ancient giant—a testament to the timeless beauty of the rainforest. The air was thick with the essence of the jungle, a heady mixture of earth, moss, and the elusive fragrance
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8.Life’s First Thrill: White Water River Rafting In Srilanka
Amidst the heart-pounding adventure, the coach encouraged me to jump into the water and float, life jacket securely fastened. A surreal moment unfolded as I found myself floating alone, away from the boat, with nothing but the rushing river around
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9. Nuwara Eliya: A Journey Into Nature’s Embrace
Continuing on, I encountered friendly Tamil Sri Lankans, most of them local farmers selling fresh carrots and tending to tea estates. The scenic beauty prompted numerous clicks, with each frame capturing the essence of this heavenly place.
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10. Trek To Horton Plains: Unveiling Nature’s Majesty
As our trek progressed, we reached a breathtaking spot known as World's End, a cliff with a sheer vertical drop of 4000 feet. The fear of heights didn't deter me; instead, I ventured closer to the edge, urging my companions
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11.Lake Gregory – Nature’s Embrace In A Peaceful Paradise!
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the water, the lake's enchantment grew. The shimmering reflection of stars in the crystal-clear waters transformed the lake into a celestial spectacle.
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12. Kandy Cultural City, Culture Vs Nature!
Observing the temple's rituals and traditions, I met a Srilankan female cop who commented on my appearance, mistaking me for a Sinhalese girl. The cultural exchange and warm reception from the locals made the visit even more special.
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13. Beauty Vs Beast – Me with Mother nature’s Majestic Masterpiece !
The entire spectacle unfolded amidst an atmosphere of joy and awe. Tourists reveled in the experience, capturing moments with these gentle giants. The sight of baby elephants walking beside their mothers, seeking refuge under their protective bellies, added a layer
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14. Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress “Eighth Among The World Wonder’s!”
As I stood atop the Lion Rock, the culmination of history and nature, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound truth—the past, sometimes, is not merely contained in books but etched onto rocks for us to learn.
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15.Wild Encounters Nonstop! Me With Mother Nature’s Majestic Masterpiece ! Part 2
As we captured these moments, the guide emphasized the importance of not using camera flashes, as they could disturb the majestic mammals. We watched the elephants from a distance, recognizing their wild nature and crossing paths.
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16.Srilanka’s World Famous Buddhist Pilgrimage Destination – Anuradhapura!
Each step in Anuradhapura felt like a journey through the annals of time, a pilgrimage resonating with significance. The city's allure lies not just in its historical grandeur but in its ability to offer visitors a profound connection to the
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17. Cautionary Tale: A Less-than-ideal Encounter In The Spice Garden
This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder to fellow travelers: beware of fraudulent practices, be vigilant against swindlers, and exercise discretion in your choices. While the Spice Garden may boast aromatic herbs and spices, the bitter aftertaste of deception
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18. Solo Traveler’s Sri Lanka Trip: A Comprehensive Guide
Sri Lanka, with its myriad experiences, awaits the solo traveler. From the cultural riches of Kandy to the historical marvels of Anuradhapura, each day promises a new adventure.
