India, Sept. 22 -- Sri Lanka is easy to associate with golden beaches, hill country tea estates and wildlife safaris. But spend a little more time looking beyond the usual holiday circuit, and the island starts to feel very different. There are quiet islands, mountain trails, boat safaris and food experiences that offer a closer look at local life and landscapes.

Nalaka Amaratunga, CEO of Destination Management Sector and Senior Vice President at John Keells Holdings PLC, points to exploring beyond the popular attractions as a way to experience Sri Lanka's culture, scenery and local traditions from a different perspective. If you are planning a Sri Lankan holiday and want to add a few less familiar stops to your itinerary, here are five ...