Nuwara Eliya

Drive into the highlands from Kandy and discover Sri Lanka at its most dramatic: a land of gurgling mountain streams and steep hillsides cloaked in luminous green tea, sweet-scented Cyprus and Eucalyptus trees. Nuwara Eliya, nestled at the foot of a mountain, was made into a summer retreat by the British in the early 1800s and much of its colonial character still remains. We invite you to discover the ‘Little England’ of the island. Located 166 kilometres away from Colombo, it is a captivating tiny town ideal for peaceful Sri Lanka holiday.

Haputale

Haputale is 44 Kms from Nuwaraeliya. The tiny town precariously perched on a Mountain ridge at an elevation of 1579 metres is ensconced in the southern end of the Central Highlands. It has justifiable repute for a climate that is both invigorating and restful. Its great attraction is that it offers an unimpeded view of the plains that extend to the coastal plains of the south and the east and the mountains to its north.It is hemmed in by the mountains of Horton plains, Hakgala and, Namunukula among several other peaks. Turn again and you have another breathtaking view of the foothills that extend to the Southern parts of the island right down to the sea. Under the cloud less sky of a bright day you may devour the sight of a pale blue border of the ocean.

Kandy

Kandy is a city with graceful charm, radiating an ambiance of antiquity that you will find only in a Sri Lanka holiday. Cocooned in the comfort of a protected valley in the central hills of Sri Lanka, the city at 500 meters (1640 feet) above sea level is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a vast array of shrines, and temples dating back to the 14th century. In 1592 Kandy became the capital of the Sinhala kings who repulsed the Portuguese and Dutch invaders. They held out against the British until 1815. The proud city is also home to several monuments, including the Dalada Maligawa the “Palace of the Sacred Tooth Relic”- the symbol of sovereignty of the nation, a must visit site in your Sri Lanka Holiday. The Magul Maduwa – The Audience Hall with its wooden columns is the epitome of Kandyan architecture. It is in this space that the Sinhala chieftains ceded the kingdom to the British Crown in 1815.The City is built with the Temple Palace of the Sacred Tooth Relic at its epicenter. Four shrines – the devales that surround the Temple Palace are dedicated to the Gods Vishnu, Skandha, Natha and Godess Paththini. The God Vishnu is the guardian deity of the Buddhist Island, God Skandha is the god of war, God Natha is an incarnation of the Bhodisathva the next Buddha and Goddess Paththini is the goddess of chastity and health. Fix your Sri Lanka tour during August to witness the biggest cultural extravaganza of the island, the Kandy Esala Perahera which brings to life the dancers, drummer and elephants in their glory.

Jaffna

Jaffna is one of the oldest human settlements in the peninsular region of Northern Sri Lanka. You can witness a myriad canvas unfolds before your eyes on your Sri Lanka vacation when you visit Jaffna peninsula and the colourful offshore islands that surround it. Once the 2nd largest Sri Lankan city, it was also an important Portuguese colonial hold. The Dutch Fort that still dominates the Jaffna skyline is spread over an area of 22 hectares within the city limits. The star shaped Jaffna Fort built in 1680 by the Dutch is considered as the best example of Dutch fortifications in Asia. Stop over to see the Nallur Kovil, the biggest Hindu Kovil in Sri Lanka during your journey to Jaffna.

Yala

Situated in the south east corner of the island, Yala is the home to the greatest variety of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Its varying habitats, consisting of scrub plains, jungles, rocky outcrops, fresh water lakes, rivers and beaches, provides home to many animals including sloth bear, elephants, buffalo, monkeys, deer, crocodiles and the endangered Sri Lankan leopard. Yala has earned a name for itself as a premier eco-tourism destination where you can experience a bunch of wildlife adventures including wildlife safaris, thrilling night camping in the jungle and so much more. Stopping over at Yala is one of the first things you need to do in Sri Lanka, given that you are an avid nature lover.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee has always aroused interest as one of the largest natural harbours in Sri Lanka. The Portuguese called the bay ‘Bahia dos Arcos’ in their records and described it as a strategic location for Indian Ocean trade routes which could control the entire Gulf of Bengal. At present Trincomalee is of interest to those who seek an idyllic holiday in Sri Lanka. Nilaweli is an uninterrupted stretch of beach that runs north from Trincomalee for nearly 30 kms. The Red Rock Beach near Nilaweli is an estuary with some unique pink boulders. A boat can take you to the nearby Pigeon Island, which has some superb coves that shelter the Blue Rock pigeon. The shady beach is a refuge for sunbathers who sun and seek solitude in a Sri Lanka Beach vacation.

Dambulla

Situated 148 kilometres northeast of Colombo, Dambulla is a famed historic town renowned for its ancient treasures. The Dambulla Cave Temple is the most famous cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple boasts the largest number of Buddha statues to be housed in one place, as well as stunning ceiling paintings. A visit to Dambulla during your Sri Lanka tour to explore is a ‘must do’ for all historians.

Nilaveli

A 30km stretch of beach is found to the north of the Eastern coastal town of Trincomalee. At the center of the strip is the famous Nilaveli beach which contains all the elements of a paradise island. At Nilaveli a sleepy holiday by the sea or a fun-filled holiday schedule are both possibilities. A few hundred meters offshore from Nilaveli beach is the much frequented Pigeon Island which derives its name from the blue rock pigeon which breeds on the island. The coral reefs make snorkeling as well as diving two popular activities while swimming or fishing at Red Rocks Bay and Kuchchaveli add to the myriad opportunities by which to sample the surrounding seas. Aside from the popular historical sites at Trincomalee there is the ancient vatadage at Tiriyaya which dates back to the 7th or 8th Century and according to lore contains a hair relic of the Buddha.

Ella

Today one of the soaring tourist attractions in Sri Lanka located in the Central province of the country. Ella is a supreme destination for both comfort seekers as well as for adventurous souls. You can either sit back and enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes or hike and trek around the Ella mountain range all day.

Mirissa

Mirissa's sandy beaches gives life to your fantasies of a tropical heaven, the secluded crescent shaped beach is like a reclusive hidden Island that is a hideaway for many. The town's sunsets and sunrises are said to be one of the finest ever, the peace that surrounds people spending time in the hotels set aback from the actual beach is quiet unmeasured. The gentle waves of the ocean crashing and building into a crescendo, coconuts falling and birds chirping. Mirissa is a tourist heaven and must not be missed!

Tangalle

One of the main reasons of its hype and popularity is its alluring beaches which never fail to capture ones attention. It has rough, strong waves and creates such an impact on a person’s mind that they are just rejoiced. Its beaches are Sri Lanka’s reply to ‘’heaven’’. The ocean stretches as far as one’s eyes can manage to see. Isn’t that just delightful? What a perfect way to beat the summer heat with some fresh water. The beaches in Tangalle have a harmonized environment and the sunsets are a must see! People all around the world come to witness the beauty of the beaches that Sri Lanka holds in it, so don’t be left out.

Arugam Bay

The Arugam Bay territory is known for its quality surf breaks. The 'Main Point' is one of the main surfing areas of the Bay found towards the south of the sound. This is a correct hand point break, with a stone/reef base, and has various areas with incidental barrels. Different breaks in the zone incorporate Whiskey Point and Pottuvil Point toward the north, and Elephant Rock, Peanut Farm and Okanda toward the south. These breaks have pulled in a constant flow of worldwide travellers for quite a few years. Arugam Bay has a decent neighbourhood surf scene and is home to some of Sri Lanka's most gifted surfers. And while you take a break you can bask in the tropical sunlight, sip a king coconut and explore the Panama Tank.

Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya is a settlement of traditional fishing families sitting in comfort on the water’s edge of the Puttalam lagoon.The lagoon, with a water surface area of about 32,750ha – is one of the largest lagoons in Sri Lanka.The scenic attractions includes the Kalaoya estuary (one of Sri Lanka’s largest mangrove habitats), the Meeoya estuary, the Dutch Bay and the Portugal Bay. Kalpitiya and the surrounding little islands have mangroves, sea grass beds and extensive coral reefs. The combination makes it a heaven to be enjoyed in a long Sri Lanka vacation of swimming, snorkeling watching whales and dolphins. The brilliant sunset across the azure seas constantly listening to the hush of nature makes it an exclusive Sri Lanka honey moon holiday.

Minneriya

Minneriya National Park is a national stop in North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The explanation behind proclaiming the region as ensured is to secure the catchment of Minneriya tank and the natural life of the encompassing territory. The tank is of recorded significance, having been worked by King Mahasen in third century AD. The regions center is a dry season bolstering ground for the elephant populace abiding in backwoods of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee areas. If you prefer a holiday escape amidst an evergreen forest and scrub areas which is home to Sri Lanka's favourites such as leopards, elephants, wild boar and sambar deer , this is the ideal location. MInneriya scores high among places to see in Sri Lanka which is an eco-tourism destination.

Adam’s peak

Climbing up the holy mountain range of Adam’s peak would make you overwhelm with the sheer feeling of accomplishment as it is not an easy trail. This is the fourth highest mountain with a height of 2244m and is located 40km northeast of Ratnapura district. Named as a sacred mountain it contains the footprints of Lord Buddha whch many a pilgims from far and wide pay homage to. For centuries this place has been used by pilgrims from all over the world to pay religious ceremonies. So make sure your holiday includes which is a divine destination, especially for Buddhist pilgrims.

Horton Plains

Horton plains in Sri Lanka, is the coldest and windiest location in the country. It consists of ecosystems such as Montane evergreen forests, grasslands, marshy lands and aquatic ecosystem. At an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level, Horton Plains spreads across over 3,169 hectares of the highest tableland of the island. In view of the large number of endemic flora and fauna species, Horton Plains was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 30th July 2010.

Bentota

One of the top 10 beaches in Asia according to the list compiled for Forbes Best Beaches in Asia Awards 2010, Bentota, which is found next to Beruwala, is a great place for family holidays. However it’s not only famous for its pristine beaches but also a number of exciting water sports such as windsurfing, para-sailing and jet skiing. Thrilling river safaris along the river grant visitors access to cinnamon plantations, nature resorts and temples which are further inland. An unmissable experience would be a visit to the residencies of two of Sri Lanka’s most famous personalities. Geoffrey Bawa, the internationally renowned Sri Lankan architect built his country estate Lunuganga in Bentota, while his brother Bevis Bawa an equally famous landscape artist designed Brief, a five acre landscaped garden. Both are open to the public and a visit to the Bentota would not be complete without a visit to Lunuganga and Brief.

Hikkaduwa

The beach of Hikkaduwa is situated 98 km from Colombo towards the south of Sri Lanka. This fun coastal town, 14 km away from Galle was the first (1960’s) of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches to be discovered by tourists. Snorkelling and diving in the clear waters are a major past-time along this stretch and is the most environmentally friendly way to see the colourful fish that dart around. The impressive coral reef runs just offshore and is still populated by exotic fish and sea turtles. Glass bottomed boats are available for visitors wanting to admire the wonders of the deep while keeping their feet dry.

Kitulgala

Being set about halfway along the route to Hatton of the Central Highlands and passing Avissawella of the low lands of Sri Lanka, Kitulgala is surrounded by forested hills making way to the swift waters of the Kelani Ganga. Surrounded by low wooded hills, Kitulgala is a village of lush vegetation. Kitulgala being blessed with two monsoons each year records the highest rainfall in Sri Lanka. However, January to March is the dry period that makes Kitulgala one of Sri Lanka’s foremost tourist attractions for those who love White Water Rafting. In addition to the white water rafting, Kitulgala affords the opportunity to engage in nature adventure, jungle trekking, outdoor camping, mountain biking and Bird Watching.

Koggala

Koggala is a strange strip of beach which is definitely not crowded, while the Koggala River and Koggala Lake attract many nature lovers. Koggala is a wide stretched village on Sri Lanka‘s South Coast with beautiful beaches and some of the best surf spots on the island.

PASSIKUDAH

Passikudah consists of a crescent shaped bay of white sand which is surrounded by shallow, calm and clear aquamarine blue water. Its offshore reef helps to shelter this sandy beach making it the perfect place for water sports such as windsurfing and water-skiing. Boat rides, fishing and snorkeling are some of the other activities on offer. Passikudah also consists of some fabulous hotels and resorts which are idyllic places for rest and recreation. As Passikudah is located within an easy distance of the main Eastern coastal towns of Batticaloa and Trincomalee this makes trips to Lovers Leap, the Koneswaram Temple, Fort Frederick or other cultural and historical sites a favourite option for a day out.

UDAWALAWE

Uda Walawe National Park, further north, is home to over 500 Asian elephants. The Elephant Transit Camp at Uda Walawe, run by Sri Lanka’s Wildlife Department, provides protection to more than 20 young elephants, mostly babies that have been orphaned or recovering from injuries prior to releasing them back to the wild. This eco-tourism destination is not be missed on your trip to Sri Lanka.

KATARAGAMA

The historical town of Tissa and Kataragama are located in Sri Lanka's south east. Tissa is dominated by lotus filled lakes, lush green paddy fields and gigantic temples dating back to the 2nd century BC. The rural shrine of Kataragama, an hour from Tissa, has great religious and historical significance and brings together multiple faiths to worship within this sacred place. You can stroll around the sacred city to discover the religious beliefs of Sri Lankans and visit the Kataragama Museum and the Archaeological Museum. The best time to visit the place is during the festival season in July.

ANURADHAPURA

Anuradhapura is one of the island’s most famous ancient cities, firmly in place in any tours in Sri Lanka. The ancient ruins predating the Christian era puts Anuradhapura in the pantheon of human history along with Athens, Alexandria and Patalipurhra. It depicts the trajectory of the Sinhalese civilization from the time it was founded in 4th century BC. The capital city of Sinhala Kings of Sri Lanka suffered, survived, was razed to the ground and was rebuilt as most other cities whose prosperity and the envy of rulers in its proximity was a recipe for recurring disasters and innovative engineering in reconstruction.The past grandeur is narrated by a fascinating collection of ancient ruins some of which have been painstakingly restored. More importantly, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site treasured for its archaeological superiority and historic values. Roam around Anuradhapura when you visit Sri Lanka to catch a glimpse of the glory of ancient Sri Lanka.

POLONNARUWA

Sri Lanka’s medieval capital from 1073 until the late 1200s, the ruins of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa are incredibly well-preserved and include magnificant granite sculptures of Lord Buddha. With extensive massive buildings, monuments and other structures like parks, museums, and sanctuaries, Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island. Still, the remains of this once-splendid city that mirrors the greatness and brilliance of primitive Sri Lankans. Explore Polonnaruwa during your Sri Lanka visit and spend time discovering its whimsical architectural wonders.

SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most majestic, awe-inspiring and stunning historical locations in the world.

Sigiriya is both a palace and a fortress of stunning splendor, and is a tribute to its ingenious builders. Lest we forget to the King who wanted a Sri Lankan Holiday deal in a palace built on the flat top of a rock with a terrace and a mirror wall. The entrance is at mid level, through the Famous Lion gate that gives Sigiriya its name makes it the perfect tailor made holiday getaway. The frescoes of Heavenly Maidens -some twenty, sensuously captivating beauties narrate in paint the pleasures of a pristine past. Sigiriya is an architectural marvel and a classic example of urban planning in the first millennium. A park laid out on a symmetrical plan to appease Royal indolence and water retaining structures with ingenious surface and subsurface hydraulic systems will surprise you, as most of them function to this day.

The mirror wall has verses dating from the 8th century wherein they wrote on love, irony, loss and grief. The Gardens of Sigiriya is one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. The Lion’s Mouth – is the entrance to the palace, with its giant paws still intact is a display of the wondrous past which surrounds this palace.

WILPATTU

Wilpattu means 'natural lakes' in Sinhala and '10 lakes' in Tamil and lakes are exactly what you'll find at Wilpattu National Park. Wilpattu National Park is located on the west coast close to the historical city of Anuradhapura .The dry zone jungle is thickly grown. Wilpattu Natonal Park is home for many villus, or natural lakes which dot the landscape. Except for two, these lakes contain rainwater, thus are important for resident and migratory water-birds.

The history of the park is also of interest with ancient ruins having been discovered. Queen Kuweni (considered to be the mother of the Sinhala race) is said to have lived in the place known as Kalli Villu. Historical evidence also shows the fact that Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu lived in Wilpattu over 2,000 years ago. There are approximately 30 species of mammals in the Wilpattu National Park which include the Sri Lankan Elephant, Sri Lankan Leopard, Sri Lankan Sloth Bear, Spotted Deer, Buffalo, Sambar and Mongoose.

Wasgamuwa

Wasgamuwa National Park, located in the districts of Matale and Polonnaruwa and bordered by the ‘Mahaweli' and ‘Amban' rivers, stretches an impressive 36,948 hectares. It was declared a National Park in 1984, making it the only one in the Central Province.

Home to a huge variety of flora and fauna (23 species of mammal – including elephants and bears, 143 birds, 8 amphibians, 17 fresh water fishes, 17 reptiles, 50 butterflies and 150 plants), this park is truly a paradise for the nature lover. With many small scale ancient tanks and several other ruins and ancient religious sites the park also has significant historical importance. For keen hikers, it is also home to the ‘Sudu Kanda' mountain range (about 470m above sea level)