FOR MANY TRAVELLERS, Sri Lanka is a destination of great fascination. Known as the Teardrop of India, the island nation has a colourful, complex history of maritime trade, colonisation (the Portuguese were the dominating political power from 1505 to 1658, before it was taken over by the Dutch and later the British), and, in more recent times, civil unrest. Today, it’s home to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages and ethnicities, and, after only opening its borders to tourism in 2009, it remains a relatively untouched and geographically diverse land to explore.
The surfing spots, beach resorts and architectural wonders such as the ancient Buddhist monument Jetavanaramaya, Anuradhapura are major draw cards, but the hustle and bustle of port cities like Galle, in the country’s southwest, is equally charming. On a trip there recently, we explored the markets for local jewellery shoes and hats to style with outfits from some of our favourite Australian menswear brands, which we photographed on a cast of local guys we met during our time in the city.
Of course, brands like Commas and Venory look right at home against an Australian backdrop, but against the vibrant cityscapes and seasides of Sri Lanka, they really dazzle. Come along as we take them for a spin.