In Chennai, a massive metal bird took off, heading towards Colombo, where, after just a brief flight of about an hour, it descended onto the runway of Bandaranaike International Airport. The view from the air reminded one of Kerala, with its vast oceans, distant shores, and the shining blue stretch of the Indian Ocean, like silk ripples across the landscape. This path, once a major route for Kerala’s people heading to Ceylon, is now known as Sri Lanka.
SriLankan Airlines, operating with the UL flight number, brought memories of M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s stories of Ceylon, bringing to mind the vivid landscapes of Kerala’s coastal beauty and the nostalgia of its once-strong ties with the island nation. Kerala’s cultural and geographical similarities with Sri Lanka were evident, especially in the abundance of coconuts and the agricultural landscapes.
Sri Lanka's tourism sector remains a vital economic asset, especially with the ongoing recovery after the long civil conflict and recent financial difficulties. Colombo, often thought to be the capital, has a connection to Kerala, as the proximity between the two regions is apparent. The flight time from Chennai to Colombo is barely an hour, comparable to a journey from Kochi to Chennai, emphasizing just how close these two places are.
The plane, a wide-body aircraft with a two-by-two seating configuration, reflected the simplicity of travel between the two places. Despite the flight being packed with travelers, the journey was short and offered only a small glimpse into the land of Sri Lanka, which welcomed visitors with its warm hospitality.
SriLankan Airlines’ flight brought us to Bandaranaike International Airport, located outside Colombo, which has been a historic site since the British era. The airport is often seen as the primary gateway to Sri Lanka, with minimal hassle for Indian travelers, who only need their passport stamped upon arrival. The flight path followed a familiar route across the island, offering stunning views of the coastline and local geography.
Once in Colombo, we headed to Negombo, known for its beaches and vibrant market scenes. Seafood, a significant part of Sri Lanka’s cuisine, is similar to Kerala’s coastal offerings. The fish markets were lively, and the local fishermen offered fresh catches of the day, while Indian currency was also accepted. The atmosphere in Sri Lanka was calm and serene, with no signs of the internal struggles the island once faced.
Negombo's rich history includes colonial influence from the Portuguese, Dutch, and later the British, and the town was once a key trading post. In fact, this bustling town was a hub for spice trade. Negombo’s beaches were famous for their golden sands, while the local market offered a variety of seafood, similar to what one might find in Kerala. The serene and clean environment in Sri Lanka was a pleasant contrast, adding to the charm of this island paradise.
As we moved towards the southern regions of Sri Lanka, the picturesque views continued, with lush coconut groves and turquoise waters meeting the land. The journey south to Bentota took us along quiet roads, devoid of the usual bustle found in other tourist spots, allowing us to soak in the natural beauty without distraction.
Bentota’s beach resort is known for its excellent water sports activities, including banana boating, speed boating, and a variety of exciting adventures. The river cruise along the Bentota River revealed the island's incredible biodiversity, with mangrove forests lining the banks, home to numerous species of birds and marine life.
This day ended with a relaxing walk along Bentota's golden sands, and the tranquil sound of the waves brought a sense of peace. This part of Sri Lanka, with its lush greenery and quiet beaches, is perfect for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. The journey through Sri Lanka’s southern coast had offered a glimpse into the richness of its natural and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable experience.