The South East Coast
Arugam Bay beach is rated as one of the top 10 surf spots in the world, the waters are not crowded, the break is accessible & the sand is white. This laid back area is a perfect relaxed getaway from the hustle & bustle of everyday life.
The Kingdom of Kandy and surrounds
Kandy is a vibrant inland city with the feeling of a very large town. Kandy is the second largest city in Sri Lanka and the capital of the Central Province. Nestled by a stunning artificial lake, created in 1807 by Sri Wickrama Rajasinha during his rule of the Kingdom of Kandy. The city lies in the midst of tea hills & spice gardens in the Kandy plateau.
Sri Dalada Maligawa, The Temple of the Tooth is at the heart of this bustling city, buddhist pilgrims visit all year round & can be seen entering the temple with arms laden in gifts. Yearly Kandy is the host to the traditional Esala Perahera festival. Visit local markets for some shopping, the grand botanic gardens, spot bats living in the trees along the railway tracks, enjoy eating local food down hidden alleyways & watch the sunset from the lookout above Kandy.
Colombo, the Capital City of Sri Lanka
Colombo, Sri Lanka’s largest city makes a great start or finish to any itinerary. Coastal, cosmopolitan and colourful, this capital city is the heart of business in Sri Lanka. Take time to wander Galle face Green in the early evening with the locals to taste freshly cooked street food & enjoy the friendly atmosphere. Looking up you notice a lotus flower in the sky, towering above all other buildings, the tallest building is affectionately known as Colombo lotus tower.
There are street markets, temples & well preserved examples of colonial architecture. Famous for its seafood, Negombo is another must visit destination in this region.
The Southern Region and South Coast
When you holiday calls for some beach time, the southern coastal region of Sri Lanka is an area that must be included on your itinerary. Our highlights of this region are consistent surf, snorkeling, whales, turtles, fresh local seafood, white sand, beachside cafes, shopping, fresh coconut and a lovely relaxed atmosphere. You can head off the beaten path and find secluded beaches, there are easily accessible safe swimming spots for families, and the beaches are clean.
The sunsets in this region will impress you day after day. Mirissa is where you head for spotting the largest mammal in the world, the Blue Whale. Weligama has a reputation for safe, easy to learn surf breaks, Hikkaduwa has shopping & breaks for all surfing levels. Spot the traditional stilt fisherman along the coast & visit a turtle hatchery for a lesson in conservation.
The cultural triangle in northern central Sri Lanka
A mighty 8 UNESCO world heritage sites are listed in Sri Lanka, the cultural triangle is home to most of these. There are three points connecting Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and the Kingdom of Kandy.
Rich in history, ancient ruins, royal gardens & bathing pools, full of wildlife and rocky bushland, this region is on the bucket list of many travellers. Buddhism has an important connection to this region with followers visiting the sacred Bodhi Tree. There are many Buddhisst stupas and of course the Dambulla cave temples colourfully painted in frescoes. UNESCO listed Sigiriya Rock with its royal & buddhist history is a highlight of any trip to this region.
Take a 4wd jeep with a safari guide out into the grasslands by the water table for an incredible experience with the herds of elephants, a huge assortment of other animals and colourful birds. Enjoy a relaxed trip in a row boat across a lake filled with lotus flowers and feel a million miles away!
North East Coast
Stunning beaches with some of the world’s best surf breaks, turquoise waters for swimming & snorkelling are the highlights of the less touristy Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.
Colourful Hindu temples sit along the coastal cliffs, spotted deer roam freely through the streets in Nilaveli. In Trincomalee local fishermen line the beach with huge nets bringing in the catch to be served in the beachside fresh seafood restaurants as the sun goes down.
Traditionally farmed coconut plantations can be spotted from the road, take a break & have a refreshing drink of king coconut. During the months between February and October the giant blue whales and dolphins frequent this coastline & are spotted daily just a boat ride offshore.
