SRILANKA

Our recent trip to Sri lanka was no less than awesome. In spite of its violent past, Sri lanka surprised us with its well organised cities, cleanliness, welcoming people and greenery. Infact it was full of surprises till the end of our trip.

The little historical knowledge of Sri lanka that we have is because of Ramayana and also because of a war zone it has been for decades. One gets to learn more about Sri lanka when one visits this beautiful country and feels the goodness it has to offer.

In one look, Sri lankans look like Indians from the southern part of India but once you observe you can easily differentiate them from Indians. They have their own uniqueness. Sri lankans are welcoming and friendly. Sri lanka is an amalgamation of many religions prominently Buddhism, Christianity and Hinduism. Although Sri lanka played a very crucial role in the Hindu epic the Ramayana, the presence of Hinduism in Sri lanka is questionable. Hinduism has taken a beating in current times.

There are many ancient temples dated more than 5,000 years old boasting their original deity statues. It is a whole new experience and feeling when visiting these temples. The most wonderful site was the "Ashoka Vatika". I am sure not many of us even dream to visit this holy place. It is once in a lifetime kind of experience. It was amazing to stand in the same place where Sita ji spent so many moments waiting for Ram ji to rescue her, and where Hanuman ji gave her Ram ji's ring. The first footstep Hanuman ji has been highlighted when he landed in Ashoka Vatika. So many emotions gush down your heart after realising the importance of the place that changed so many events in Hindu history.

Apart from the rich history Srilanka has something else to bowl you over with, it's food - spicy and hot. Rice is the staple food and most of dishes are prepared with it. Coconut is native to Srilanka and is used generously in many dishes. The curries and unique vegetables will wake up those sleeping taste buds.

Srilanka is also world famous for its Gems. Trust me, a good quality gem is very reasonably priced here.

Srilanka has many unique places to visit and many things to do and we haven't even scratched the surface.