Not sure if you’re ready to visit India? Sri Lanka is the perfect place to dip your toe in the water and see if you’re ready to take the next step. Often dubbed India-lite, Sri Lanka has many cultural similarities, but isn’t nearly as chaotic, crowded or overwhelming.

With a history that dates back thousands of years, Sri Lanka is home to ancient temples and sacred cities. The finest example of Sri Lanka’s past can be seen at Anuradhapura, a sprawling complex of archaeological ruins, built during Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is a country steeped in age-old traditions from yellow-robed monks awakening sacred cities with their hypnotic chants and pilgrims climbing the 5,200 steps to holy Adam’s Peak every year.

Perfectly positioned in the Indian Ocean, this teardrop shaped island is quickly becoming the hottest beach destination of the moment. With swaying palm trees, turquoise seas and rich orange sunsets, it’s easy to see why. When you add affordable prices into the mix, you really can’t find a better island escape.

Known by Sri Lankans as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Sigiriya rock is the country’s most symbolic monument. You can climb to the top of the ancient rock fortress and see the crumbling palace which once soared spectacularly over the land.

Sri Lanka offers visitors the ultimate Asian safari experience. You’ll venture into national parks in open-roofed 4x4’s and get the chance to see all kinds of animals roaming in the wild. Perhaps the most humbling encounter is getting close to the incredible Sri Lankan elephant and seeing them roam the large plains. But it’s not just elephants you’ll see, there are water buffalos, wild pigs and even leopards.

Sri Lankans are some of the humblest and kindest locals to meet and I loved spending my time talking to them and learning about their fascinating culture. The best way to get friendly with the locals is by taking the train and riding third class where you’re almost guaranteed to strike up a conversation. Just be prepared to have your face in someone’s armpit for the entire journey, unless you nab one of the coveted door seats where you quite literally sit in the door frame with your legs dangling out of the train.

Often called the most scenic train ride in the world, the journey from Kandy to Ella passes through verdant hill country and luscious tea plantations. Even those who have hired a driver, hop out of the car to experience this part of the journey by train.

From misty tea plantations to temple-studded landscapes, the scenery in Sri Lanka will take your breath away. Not only does the country boast a beautiful coastline, it also has a luscious interior with undulating tea plantations and impenetrable jungle.

Fragrant curries, fluffy roti and spicy sambal and just a few of the dishes you’ll eat on repeat in Sri Lanka. With endless spices and curries, it’s impossible to get bored of Sri Lankan food and you’ll find yourself craving it long after you leave. Cool down after all that chilli with a refreshing coconut or cup of Ceylon tea.