This is the final post in the series on our trip to Sri Lanka. On the fifth day, we planned on visiting the famous Yala National Park. We opted for the early morning safari. We woke up early, got ready and reached the main entrance by 05:40 AM. The drive from our hotel to the entrance of the Yala National Park was around 40 min. The entrance to the park opens at 06 AM and so, we had to wait for some time. All the vehicles were lined up one after the other in the queue for the gates to open.

Yala National Park:

Yala is the second largest National Park in Sri Lanka and borders Indian Ocean. It is also one of the Important Bird Areas of Sri Lanka. This National Park is famous for its highest density of leopard population in the world. Two types of safaris are available at Yala – Half Day safari and Full Day safari. We booked the half day safari which lasted for around three and a half hours. Usually, a break is given after 2 hours for having breakfast. All the safari vehicles stop at a common spot for the break. The place where we stopped for the break, had a cafeteria and was situated near the ocean. The views there were stunning. We packed our breakfast from the hotel. We devoured it by enjoying the sounds of the waves.

After the break, we continued with the rest of our safari. We spotted a wide range of birds, monitor lizards, peacocks, elephants and water buffaloes. Unfortunately, we did not find the leopards. Although the density of leopards is high at Yala, spotting a leopard there is purely based on luck. While we were disappointed on not spotting a leopard, we nevertheless had a thrilling experience.

After the safari, we went back to the hotel, freshened up and checked out from our hotel. We then proceeded with our journey to Galle.

Galle City:

The city of Galle is situated at about 150 kms away from Yala. We reached there by around 13:00 hrs. It is one of the most beautiful cities of Sri Lanka. Our first stop was at the Galle Fort.

Galle fort:

The structure is also known as the Dutch fort. The Portuguese initially built it in 1588. The Dutch later fortified it. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka. The place is lively with a lot of restaurants and cafes around it. It offers stunning views. The place also has a working light house.

After visiting the Galle fort and trying some local delicacies, we proceeded with our onward journey.

Colombo:

We reached Colombo at around 6 in the evening and visited some important places on the way to our hotel.

Gangaramaya Temple:

It is one of the most important temples of Colombo. This 19th century temple’s architecture has a mix of Sri Lankan, Indian, Chinese and Thai influences. Other than being a place of worship, it is also an educational centre. The temple was started by the monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera. The temple also has a museum displaying wooden and ivory items including the statues of Buddha in various mudras. Most of the items were donated by devotees over the years. There is also a Bodhi tree inside, which is considered to be most sacred for Buddhists. This is because Buddha attained enlightenment under a Bodhi tree. People usually offer their prayers here. The temple also has a stuffed elephant, Raja. Other than being a place of worship, it is also involved in social welfare. Another highlight of this beautiful temple is a stairway full of Buddha statues. It leads up to a pyramid located at the centre. Just opposite to this temple, there is another temple Gangarama Seema Malaka, surrounded by Lake Beira. It is a calm and serene place and offers picture perfect views with the backdrop of the city’s skyline.

After visiting the temple, we proceeded to our hotel and checked into it. We had our dinner and took a stroll around the place for some time. The exploration of Colombo city was planned for the next day.

Next day, we woke up and firstly enjoyed the beautiful views from our hotel. We had a delicious breakfast and proceeded for some street shopping. We bought a few souvenirs. One remarkable feature of Sri Lanka is its disciplined traffic. The movement of vehicles was very orderly and there was no unnecessary honking. The vehicles stopped and waited for the pedestrians to cross the streets. It felt orderly.

Our first stop was at the Independence Memorial.

Independence Memorial:

The Independence Square was built in the commemoration of independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule. Other than being a site of historic consequence, it also has an architectural significance. The memorial hall has pillars decorated with the traditional designs related to Sri Lankan culture. It is accessible through steps, lined by the statues of Lions. The basement of this hall has the Memorial museum. There is also a statue of the first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Hon. D.S.Senanayake, known as the Father of the Nation.

In front of the hall, there is a huge pathway surrounded by lush green trees and fountains. The place provides a retreat from the hustle bustle of the city and is a relaxing spot. It is usually filled with the joggers and strolling couples.

Next, we visited the famous Lotus tower. We watched and appreciated its beauty from the outside. We did not go inside. As understood from the name itself, the design of the tower is inspired from the Lotus flower. It symbolizes the purity of the Sri Lankan culture. The tower has restaurants, food courts, conference rooms and an observation gallery. It is one of the most important landmarks of the city.

Galle Face Green:

Situated in the heart of Colombo, it is an urban park along the coast. It is the largest open space in Colombo and is spread over five hectares. Offering stunning sunrise and sunset views, it is popular for activities like kite flying and beach volleyball. The area is frequented by both locals as well as tourists for relaxing and spending some quality time. It is surrounded by colonial buildings and luxury hotels.

Other places to visit:

• Colombo National Museum
• Viharamahadevi Park
• Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
• Parliament Building

We spent some more time soaking in the vibrant vibe of Colombo. Finally, we bid farewell to Sri Lanka, carrying a tiny piece of it forever in our hearts. As they say, true goodbyes don’t really exist in Sinhala – only the gentle wish of ‘Ayubowan’. Ayubowan, Sri Lanka (May you live long) until we meet again.

Points to note:

• Shoes are to be removed before entering the Gangaramaya temple
• Place of stay: Grand Oriental Hotel
• Entry ticket to temple: 500 LKR for temple and museum
• Entry to Independence Memorial is free

Tip: One can also book their trip with an extra day to spare by including Mirissa in their itinerary. The place is famous for surfing and whale watching.