Things To Do

Minneriya National Park, situated in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is renowned for hosting Asia's largest elephant gathering. During the dry season, from July to September, hundreds of elephants migrate to the Minneriya Reservoir, drawn by the promise of water and lush grass. This extraordinary event, famously known as "The Gathering," allows visitors to witness elephants in their natural environment as they feed, bathe, and interact. Jeep safaris provide an excellent vantage point for this breathtaking experience, making it a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The park's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity make it an essential destination for nature lovers.

Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, each reflecting the island's rich cultural and natural heritage. The ancient city of Anuradhapura is celebrated for its historic ruins and the sacred Bodhi Tree. Polonnaruwa, a former capital, captivates visitors with the intricate Gal Vihara rock carvings. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called Lion Rock, stands out for its imposing structure and beautiful frescoes. The Golden Temple of Dambulla, a series of cave temples, is famed for its Buddhist murals and statues. Kandy, a cultural and spiritual center, houses the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The colonial-era city of Galle is admired for its well-preserved Dutch fort. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a biodiversity treasure trove, and the Central Highlands, known for their unique ecosystems. Exploring these sites offers an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s diverse history and natural splendor.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for leopard enthusiasts, offering exceptional opportunities to witness these magnificent predators in the wild. Yala National Park, situated in the southeastern region, is renowned for having one of the world's highest leopard populations, making it a favorite for wildlife safaris. Guided jeep tours take visitors deep into the park, where leopards can often be seen resting in trees or stalking prey. In the northwest, Wilpattu National Park provides another excellent setting for leopard encounters, with its unique terrain dotted with natural lakes. For a more tranquil experience, Horton Plains National Park in the central highlands offers a chance to spot leopards in a mist-shrouded, mountainous setting. Each park not only offers thrilling leopard sightings but also highlights Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty, making the island an unforgettable destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

A village tour in Sri Lanka offers an immersive journey into the heart of the island’s cultural heritage and rural way of life. These tours take you to traditional villages, where you can observe daily routines, engage with local families, and participate in age-old practices. A key attraction is experiencing traditional rice farming, including the planting and harvesting processes. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely bullock cart ride through picturesque surroundings and a serene boat ride across calm village lakes. The experience often includes a visit to a local household for a hands-on cooking demonstration, allowing you to learn the art of preparing authentic Sri Lankan dishes and savor the results. This enriching experience provides a genuine connection to Sri Lanka’s traditions and warm hospitality, leaving a lasting impression on travelers.

Sri Lanka is a premier destination for surfing, offering an array of surf spots suitable for all skill levels. On the east coast, Arugam Bay is a world-famous surfing hotspot, celebrated for its consistent waves and relaxed atmosphere, especially from April to October, when conditions are ideal. Along the south coast, Weligama is an excellent choice for beginners, featuring gentle waves and numerous surf schools to help newcomers get started. Experienced surfers can head to Hikkaduwa, known for its challenging reef breaks and lively beach vibe. Mirissa, also on the southern coast, combines reliable waves with stunning scenery, creating a perfect backdrop for a surf session. With warm waters, welcoming locals, and diverse surfing opportunities, Sri Lanka offers an exceptional blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural charm, ensuring a memorable experience for surfers of all levels.

Sri Lanka is a paradise for kite surfing enthusiasts, offering excellent conditions and breathtaking locations. Kalpitiya, situated on the northwest coast, stands out as the country’s top kite surfing destination. With steady winds from May to October and December to March, the area is ideal for both beginners and seasoned kite surfers. Its expansive lagoon features shallow, flat waters perfect for learning, while the nearby ocean provides thrilling waves for advanced riders. Mannar and Vella Island are also emerging as popular kite surfing spots, known for their consistent winds and stunning surroundings. Visitors will find numerous kite surfing schools and rental facilities, catering to all skill levels. With its warm climate, picturesque coastlines, and welcoming local culture, Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable experience for kite surfers seeking both excitement and tranquility in a tropical setting.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for scuba diving, showcasing a vibrant underwater world and breathtaking marine biodiversity. The western and southern coasts are particularly renowned for their exceptional dive sites. Hikkaduwa is celebrated for its colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including turtles and vibrant tropical fish. Mirissa offers thrilling diving experiences with opportunities to encounter majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays. Unawatuna is well-known for its coral gardens and fascinating wreck dives, while Kalpitiya stands out for its unique dive spots and the chance to see dolphins and whales. With warm, clear waters and diverse marine ecosystems, Sri Lanka caters to both beginner and experienced divers. Numerous dive centers provide guided excursions and equipment, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. From exploring lively coral reefs to uncovering hidden shipwrecks, scuba diving in Sri Lanka is an adventure not to be missed.

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Sri Lanka from above with a hot air ballooning adventure. Gently drift over the island's breathtaking landscapes, including emerald forests, historic temples, and charming villages. Popular launch points like Dambulla and Kandy provide stunning aerial views of rolling tea plantations and the majestic highlands. As the sun rises, the scenery comes alive with vibrant hues, creating perfect moments for photography. Hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka is a peaceful yet thrilling experience, guided by experienced pilots who ensure a safe and memorable journey. Each flight unveils a unique perspective of the island's natural splendor and cultural landmarks, making it a standout activity for travelers. Whether marking a special event or simply seeking an extraordinary experience, hot air ballooning offers a serene and captivating way to explore Sri Lanka’s unmatched beauty.

Sri Lanka is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of avian species across its diverse landscapes. With over 400 bird species, including 33 endemics unique to the island, it’s a true paradise for bird watchers. Sinharaja Forest Reserve and Udawalawe National Park are among the top destinations, where you can spot vibrant birds like the Sri Lankan Blue Magpie and the Sri Lankan Junglefowl. Kumana and Bundala National Parks are famed for their seasonal migrations and abundant wetland birds. Closer to Colombo, the Muthurajawela Marsh provides an excellent setting for observing waterfowl and other aquatic species. Sri Lanka’s tropical forests, wetlands, and open grasslands create an ideal environment for bird watching. With guided tours and expert local birders available, this activity promises a rewarding experience for both seasoned birders and curious nature lovers.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a feast for the senses, offering a rich tapestry of flavors inspired by the island's diverse cultural heritage. At the heart of the cuisine is rice and curry, a staple meal featuring an array of curries made with vegetables, meats, or seafood, infused with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Hoppers, crispy bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, are a breakfast favorite, often paired with spicy sambols and curries. Kottu Roti, a stir-fried mix of chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, is a must-try street food delight. Other popular dishes include String Hoppers, delicate steamed rice noodles, and Dosa, a savory, crispy crepe. Street food offerings like Vadei (lentil fritters) and Pol Sambol (a tangy coconut relish) showcase bold local flavors. For an authentic taste, visit bustling markets and small eateries where dishes are crafted with fresh, local ingredients and traditional techniques.

Sri Lanka is famous for its ancient Ayurvedic practices, offering a natural, holistic approach to health and wellness. Rooted in the island's cultural heritage, Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. Visitors can indulge in a variety of treatments such as herbal massages, steam baths, and rejuvenating therapies designed to cleanse and revitalize. Abhyanga, a traditional oil massage, uses warm herbal oils to relax muscles and improve blood circulation. Panchakarma, an intensive detoxification program, consists of a series of treatments aimed at purging toxins from the body. Shirodhara, where warm oil is poured onto the forehead, induces deep relaxation and mental clarity. Numerous wellness resorts and spas across Sri Lanka offer tailored Ayurvedic packages, providing an authentic and tranquil experience. Immerse yourself in the healing power of Ayurveda in Sri Lanka for a refreshing and restorative journey toward well-being.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for whale watching, offering exceptional opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. The island's warm, clear waters attract a diverse range of whale species, with Mirissa and Trincomalee being the prime spots for sightings. From November to April, the southern coast around Mirissa is renowned for its blue whale sightings, the largest animals on the planet. During the northeast monsoon season, from May to September, Trincomalee becomes the ideal location for spotting sperm whales and playful dolphins. Expert tour operators offer guided trips that prioritize safety while ensuring minimal disturbance to marine life. Whale watching in Sri Lanka is a thrilling and educational experience, allowing visitors to observe these incredible animals up close in their natural habitat. A whale-watching tour here promises an unforgettable encounter with some of the ocean's most awe-inspiring creatures.