Sri Lanka, a paradise for fruit enthusiasts, offers a bounty of exquisite and delicious fruits that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From the succulent pineapples to the sweet and juicy mangoes, Sri Lankan fruits are a true testament to the country’s fertile soil, abundant water, and tropical sun. During your stay, you’ll be treated to a delightful selection of fresh fruits every morning at your hotel’s buffet, each perfectly ripe and bursting with flavor.
Sri Lanka, Fruit Heaven
In Sri Lanka, fruit is a staple in the local diet, and you’ll be amazed by the wide variety of tropical fruits available. From the familiar pineapple, papaya (pawpaw), mango, and bananas to the more unique jackfruit and mangosteen, Sri Lanka has it all. In fact, the jackfruit holds the title of the world’s largest fruit and is the national fruit of both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Prepare yourself for a delightful journey of discovery as you indulge in these new and exotic flavors.
Is it Safe to Eat Fruit in Sri Lanka?
You may be wondering about the safety of consuming fruit in Sri Lanka. Rest assured, most fruits require peeling before consumption, making them safe to eat. Additionally, the fruit is commonly used in smoothies, milkshakes, and cocktails, with no reported cases of tummy problems among tourists. To be prepared, you can always carry a small Swiss Army knife to easily peel any fruit you purchase.
Exploring Fruit Markets in Sri Lanka
To truly immerse yourself in the vibrant fruit culture of Sri Lanka, make sure to visit the old Dutch markets in Galle, where you’ll be greeted with succulent fruit displays that will leave you spoilt for choice. And while you’re there, don’t miss out on the neighboring fish, vegetable, and spice markets, which offer a sensory feast like no other. Getting to these markets is a breeze, as they are easily accessible from the beach resorts by bus, train, car, or tuk-tuk.
Roadside Fruit Stalls: Hidden Gems
As you explore the country, you’re bound to encounter small roadside fruit stalls run by home-owners or small farmers. These hidden gems are the perfect place to stop and grab some fresh fruit, with drinking coconuts being a popular choice. Just ask your tuk-tuk or taxi driver to make a quick stop, and they’ll help you negotiate the price. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
The Gems of Sri Lankan Fruits
Among the vast selection of Sri Lankan fruits, a few stand out as true gems. The most famous of them all is the mangosteen, a fruit so adored that Queen Victoria herself had them specially shipped from Sri Lanka. Another must-try is the King Coconut, known locally as Thaembili, which offers electrolyte-rich coconut water that is both delicious and medicinally valuable. And of course, the jackfruit, the largest fruit in the world, holds a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankans.
Mangosteens: Fit for Royalty
With its hard purple case and sweet white segments, the mangosteen is often referred to as the queen of Sri Lankan fruits. Its unique flavor and texture make it a true delicacy.
Durian: A Polarizing King
Known as the king of fruits, durian is a fruit that elicits strong opinions. While its smell may be off-putting to some, its taste leaves others raving. Durian season in Sri Lanka is typically from July to August, depending on the weather.
Custard Apples: Sweet Delights
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love Sri Lanka’s sweet, soft custard apples. Hidden beneath their knobbly skin lies a delightfully custardy pulp that can be enjoyed with a spoon or turned into a refreshing drink. Each variety of custard apple brings its own unique flavor to the table.
And Many More
Sri Lanka is also home to a plethora of other tantalizing fruits, such as cashew apples, bananas of all shapes and sizes, and the luscious Sri Lankan mango. These fruits, along with lychees and rambutans, add to the rich tapestry of flavors that make Sri Lanka a true fruit lover’s paradise.
Rare Sri Lankan Fruits: A Hidden Treasure
In addition to the well-known fruits, Sri Lanka is also home to a variety of rare and indigenous fruits that are lesser-known but equally delightful. From the bael fruit with its hard brown-green shell and aromatic pulp to the vibrant pink dragon fruit, these fruits offer a unique taste of Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.
It’s worth noting that while Sri Lanka boasts a wide variety of fruits, some of them are seasonal and can be found in specific regions. However, with the abundance of fruit markets and stalls, you’ll always find a delicious and refreshing treat to satisfy your cravings.
So, be prepared to embark on a delightful culinary adventure and indulge your taste buds in the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka. DHPL Travels invites you to explore the rich flavors and vibrant colors of Sri Lankan fruits. Book your trip now and experience the taste of paradise firsthand.