Things To Do

The Great Elephant Gathering at Minneriya National Park is a spectacular wildlife event that attracts visitors from around the world. This annual phenomenon occurs during the dry season when the water levels of the Minneriya Reservoir recede, revealing lush grasslands. Hundreds of elephants migrate here from surrounding forests, creating one of the largest concentrations of Asian elephants globally. Tourists can witness this magnificent sight on guided jeep safaris, offering close-up views of these gentle giants as they graze, play, and interact with each other. The Gathering provides a unique and intimate glimpse into the lives of elephants, making it a highlight for any wildlife enthusiast visiting Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka's UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a captivating journey through the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Highlights include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, renowned for its sacred Bodhi Tree and well-preserved ruins. Polonnaruwa, the island's medieval capital, is famed for its remarkable rock carvings and temples. Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, is an iconic fortress with stunning frescoes and panoramic views. The Dambulla Cave Temple, with its intricate Buddhist murals and statues, is a must-visit. Kandy's Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a significant pilgrimage site. The historic Galle Fort, built by the Dutch, showcases colonial architecture and charm. The Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot, and the Central Highlands, known for their unique ecosystems, highlight Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. Exploring these sites offers a profound understanding of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage.

Sri Lanka is renowned for its thriving leopard population, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Yala National Park, in the southeast, is famous for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Visitors can enjoy thrilling jeep safaris through Yala's diverse landscapes, offering prime opportunities to spot these elusive big cats. Wilpattu National Park, located in the northwest, also boasts significant leopard sightings amidst its unique terrain of natural lakes and dense forests. Additionally, Horton Plains National Park, in the central highlands, offers a different leopard-spotting experience within its misty grasslands and cloud forests. These parks not only provide excellent chances to see leopards but also showcase Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Exploring these national parks offers a memorable adventure for tourists eager to witness the majesty of leopards in their natural habitat.

Sri Lanka is a paradise for surfers, offering diverse and consistent waves suitable for all skill levels. The island's east coast, particularly Arugam Bay, is a world-famous surfing destination, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. The peak surf season here is from April to October, featuring long, smooth right-hand breaks ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers. On the south coast, Weligama is perfect for novices, with its gentle, sandy-bottom waves and numerous surf schools. More advanced surfers will enjoy the powerful reef breaks at Hikkaduwa and Midigama. Mirissa combines beautiful scenery with reliable waves, providing a great surfing and leisure experience. With its warm waters, scenic beaches, and friendly surf culture, Sri Lanka offers a memorable surfing adventure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to ride the waves in a tropical paradise.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for kite surfing, offering perfect conditions for both beginners and advanced riders. The northwest coast, particularly Kalpitiya, is renowned for its consistent and strong winds, especially from May to October and December to March. Kalpitiya's vast lagoon features flat, shallow waters ideal for learning and freestyle tricks, while the ocean side offers exciting wave riding. Mannar and Vella Island are also becoming popular kite surfing spots due to their reliable winds and scenic beauty. These locations provide excellent opportunities for kite surfers to experience thrilling rides in stunning settings. With numerous kite surfing schools and rental shops, visitors can easily find lessons and equipment suited to their needs. Sri Lanka's warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture make it an unbeatable kite surfing destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for scuba diving, offering stunning underwater experiences along its picturesque coastlines. The western and southern shores are particularly renowned for their dive sites. Hikkaduwa is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including turtles and colorful fish. Mirissa offers exceptional diving with opportunities to see whale sharks and manta rays. Unawatuna features beautiful coral gardens and intriguing shipwrecks, while Kalpitiya is known for its unique dive sites and the chance to spot dolphins and whales. The clear, warm waters and diverse marine ecosystems make Sri Lanka ideal for divers of all levels. With numerous dive operators providing guided tours and equipment rental, exploring the island’s underwater wonders is both accessible and exciting. Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable scuba diving adventure in a tropical paradise.

Hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka offers a magical way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes from above. Glide gracefully over scenic vistas, including lush tea plantations, ancient ruins, and serene lakes. Dambulla and Kandy are popular locations for ballooning, providing stunning aerial views of their beautiful surroundings. As you ascend with the rising sun, enjoy panoramic vistas of the verdant countryside and historical landmarks. Each flight promises a serene and exhilarating experience, with experienced pilots ensuring safety and comfort. Hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka is perfect for a unique adventure or a romantic celebration. The combination of breathtaking views, gentle flight, and the thrill of floating above this tropical paradise makes it an unforgettable activity, offering a fresh perspective on Sri Lanka's natural and cultural beauty.

Sri Lanka is a haven for bird watchers, offering a rich variety of avian species across its diverse habitats. The island boasts over 400 bird species, including 33 endemics found only here. Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a top destination, home to the vibrant Sri Lankan Blue Magpie and other rare species. Kumana National Park and Bundala National Park are renowned for their impressive bird migrations and wetland birds, making them must-visit spots. Udawalawe National Park provides opportunities to see a range of birds in a stunning natural setting. The Muthurajawela Marsh near Colombo offers unique views of waterfowl and marshland species. With its tropical forests, wetlands, and grasslands, Sri Lanka presents exceptional bird watching experiences. Local guides and organized tours enhance the adventure, ensuring a memorable experience for both casual bird enthusiasts and serious ornithologists.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a feast of bold flavors and aromatic spices. Central to the local diet is rice and curry, a comforting dish served with a variety of vegetable, meat, and seafood curries, spiced with ingredients like turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin. Hoppers, a type of crispy, bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, are enjoyed with spicy sambols and curries. Kottu Roti is a popular street food, featuring chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, meat, or seafood. String Hoppers, delicate steamed rice noodles, and Dosa, a crispy rice crepe, are also beloved. Pol Sambol, a spicy coconut relish, adds a zesty kick to many dishes. For an authentic experience, visit local markets and small eateries where traditional recipes are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, offering a true taste of Sri Lankan culinary heritage.

Sri Lanka is a prime destination for experiencing authentic Ayurvedic healing and massage. Ayurveda, an ancient wellness tradition, focuses on balancing the body's energies to promote health and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in a variety of treatments such as Abhyanga, a soothing full-body oil massage that uses warm herbal oils to improve circulation and ease muscle tension. Shirodhara, where warm oil is gently poured onto the forehead, is known for its calming effects and mental clarity. Panchakarma offers a comprehensive detoxification process, including herbal steam baths and therapeutic massages. Many resorts and wellness centers across Sri Lanka provide personalized Ayurvedic packages, integrating traditional remedies with luxurious treatments. Immerse yourself in the island's serene environment and rejuvenate your body and mind with the holistic practices of Ayurveda, ensuring a deeply restorative and authentic wellness experience.

Sri Lanka is a top destination for whale watching, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The island’s waters are prime spots for whale sightings, with Mirissa and Trincomalee being the most popular locations. From November to April, the southern coast near Mirissa is renowned for blue whale sightings, including the largest animal on earth. During the northeast monsoon from May to September, Trincomalee provides excellent chances to see sperm whales and playful dolphins. Tours are led by experienced operators who prioritize safety and marine conservation. Whale watching in Sri Lanka promises an awe-inspiring experience, allowing you to witness the grandeur of these ocean giants up close. The combination of stunning sea views and the thrill of spotting whales makes it a must-do activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.