The moment of extreme pride for Sri Lanka was when the island was crowned the Most Desirable Island in the World by Wanderlust Magazine at the 23rd Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards in 2024. This global recognition shows unmatched allure from breathtakingly beautiful landscapes to its rich cultural heritage and beyond.
For more than two decades, Wanderlust Magazine has been a trusted guide for travellers seeking authentic and meaningful journeys. Founded in 1993, the publication champions sustainable tourism and celebrates destinations that offer unforgettable experiences.
The 23rd-year-round Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards is one of the most prestigious awards in the travel industry. What is truly unique about these awards is their foundation, it is based on the votes cast by the passion-driven travellers across the globe. These readers, adventurers, cultural explorers, and nature enthusiasts recognise those destinations that went above and beyond and made lasting impressions.
This year, Sri Lanka emerged right at the top, having outshone other globally renowned islands in aspects of natural beauty, cultural significance, and unique experiences.
Sri Lanka mesmerised the readers of Wanderlust by its incomparable diversity, vibrant culture, and pledge for sustainable travel. Here's what made the island stand out:
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
From the golden beaches of the southern coast to the emerald tea plantations of the hill country, Sri Lanka boasts a wide range of breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Be it the serene lagoons in the east, the misty mountains of Ella, or the jungles full of wildlife at Yala, this island is a haven for nature lovers.
Cultural Heritage
The deep-rooted history of Sri Lanka, depicted in its World Heritage Sites such as Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, offers views of ancient civilizations. Travellers are smitten with the island's unique cocktail of Buddhist traditions, colonial influences, and vibrant festivals.
Encounter with Wildlife
With some of the most incredible biodiversity in the world, Sri Lanka is any wildlife enthusiast's haven. It's one of those few places where you can spot majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and playful dolphins in a single trip!
Warm Hospitality
Sri Lanka is known for the friendliness and warmth of its people. Visitors often leave with tales of affectionate moments from rural villages-sharing a cup of tea to the smiles of locals, eager to share in their culture.
Adventure and Exploration
It caters to the thrill-seeker, from hiking in iconic Adam’s Peak Mountain to surfing off Arugambay to diving in an underwater world of coral reefs. Sri Lanka offers something for every kind of adventure.
Commitment to Sustainability
The country is doing a commendable job with eco-friendly tourism. Be it national parks, nature reserves, or community-based tourism, everything ensures that the travellers enjoy the treasures of the island in a responsible manner.
What makes Sri Lanka different from other famous islands, like the Maldives or Bali?
These destinations are all about luxury or tropical retreats, but Sri Lanka offers something more meaningful, a journey through history, nature, and culture. It is not just a place to go to relax but a destination to be explored, learned from, and connected with.
Where the Maldives pride themselves on their offerings of ultra-exclusive resorts, Sri Lanka offers an experience that welcomes solo adventurers, couples, and families alike into its fold. Where Bali may provide an experience of its traditions and way of life, Sri Lanka does it with much less commercialism.
If the recognition as Most Desirable Island in the World is an award, it is more so a call to adventure. Whether your desire is for its beaches, ancient temples, or lush forests, Sri Lanka has something to offer that no other experience can match.
As the readers of Wanderlust have come to realise, this island is a destination that touches your heart and soul, creating lifetime memories.
