Dancers and drummers feature strongly in the world famous ‘Kandy Perahara’, the pageant whose origins date back to the second century AD. This gorgeous spectacle, that features over 100 richly draped elephants accompanied, by fire bearers and costumed dancers; moving to complex rhythms of drummers, in a procession that moves through the streets of picturesque Kandy, the old capital. Also, in Colombo the Vel festival – a Hindu celebration that has its origins in the mists of time is a spectacle to behold.

If art history is of interest to you, then you will be completely indulged, by the inspired sculptures that brought massive rocks to life in various parts of the country. You could be stunned into a reverent silence as you gaze at the Buddhist paintings on the roof and walls of the largest cave monastery in the land, located at Dumbulla. In fact all religious sites across the country, regardless of denomination are ‘galleries’ of uniquely devout and inspired architecture, art and sculpture.

Contemporary art also thrives in Sri Lanka through the talents of world acknowledged artists such as: George Keyt and Senaka Senanayake. If purchasing originals is your desire, time your visit with the annual ‘Kala Pola’: It is national gathering of artists held in Colombo each January. You will be charmed and excited at the depth and beauty of the paintings, and artifacts created by Sri Lankan artists, and craftspeople. You must also remember that our craftspeople include the jewellers who create magnificent pieces around Sri Lanka’s famous sapphires, emeralds, rubies and a wide range of other precious and semi-precious gems. Sri Lanka is also the home of many literary greats: Michael Ondaatje, Leonard Woolfe and Arthur. C. Clark, to name a few.