Itinerary
WILPATTUWA NATIONAL PARK
On Sri Lanka’s northwest coast is the renowned wildlife preserve known as Wilpattu National Park. With a total area of over 1,317 square kilometres (508 square miles), it is the largest national park in the nation. The park is renowned for the variety of ecosystems it supports, including dense dry zone forests, grassy plains, and freshwater lakes known as “villus. “Elephants from Sri Lanka, leopards, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species, including migratory and endemic birds, can all be found in the park.
In Wilpattu, there is a special network of unman made lakes called “villus.” These serve as vital water sources for the park’s fauna and serve as picturesque locations for guests. Forests in the dry zone, scrublands, grasslands, and coastal vegetation make up the majority of the park’s vegetation. Through escorted safari trips, visitors may learn more about the park and take in its varied species and scenic surroundings. Wilpattu National Park also has historical value due to the numerous centuries-old temples and ruins that can be located there.
ANURADHAPURA ANCIENT CITY
Anuradhapura is a historic city in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. It is one of the most revered and historically significant cities in the nation and is well-known for its well-preserved ancient Sri Lankan civilization ruins. The city functioned as Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital and had a significant impact on the development of the nation’s culture, religion, and built environment. Anuradhapura was founded in the fourth century BCE and remained the seat of government until the tenth century CE. Various ancient Sri Lankan kings used it as their political and religious hub. Ancient stupas (dagobas), temples, monasteries, and other religious buildings are among the city’s numerous sacred places.
The Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Thuparamaya are a few of the most renowned stupas and important Buddhist religious icons. King Mahasena constructed this stupa, which is among the biggest in the world, in the third century CE. It serves as evidence of the sophisticated technical and architectural abilities of early Sri Lankans.a significant monastery complex that previously housed thousands of monks who participated in religious and educational pursuits. One of the oldest historically verified trees in the world, the Sri Maha Bodhi, is located in Anuradhapura. It is a young tree that was part of the original Bodhi Tree in India, when Lord Buddha obtained enlightenment.
MIHINTHALE TEMPLE
The territory of Mihintale (mihinthalaya) was a dense jungle region inhibited by wild creatures and a hunting zone reserved for the royals in the third century BC. All of this changed in 250 BC when Mahinda Maha Thero, the son of the Indian Emperor Asoka, first encountered King Devanampiyatissa at the Missaka Pauwa and posed the infamous questions to determine whether or not he was bright enough to comprehend the Buddha’s doctrine.
Mihintale (mihinthalaya), which was initially Mahinda Maha Thero’s home but later developed into a major Theravada Buddhist Centre and is regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, was built up over the course of millennia by numerous kings as a vast monastic complex complete with hospitals for the sick bhikkhus. The Ambasthala Dagoba, sometimes called the Mihindu Seya, is a notable landmark in Mihintale. The Kantaka Cetiya, another significant stupa in Mihintale, is thought to house the relics of King Devanampiyatissa. Another noteworthy stupa located on the grounds of Mihintale is the Maha Stupa, also referred to as Mahaseya.Arahat Mahinda is thought to have meditated and engaged in asceticism at the Aradhana Gala, also known as the “meditation rock,” which is part of the hill complex known as Mihintale. This is the cave that Arahat Mahinda is thought to have lived in while he was in Mihintale.
HOT SPRINGS KANNIYA
In Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee District, in the Eastern Province, lies a location known as Kanniya Hot Springs. These wells have an average temperature of 42 degrees Celsius, albeit they vary slightly from one another. Both local and foreign tourists enjoy visiting the Kanniya Hot Springs in the Trincomalee area. This is currently overseen by Trincomalee’s Pradeshiya Sabha (Local Council). Locals think that this hot water can treat some skin conditions and can treat rheumatic and arthritis pain. According to inscriptions, Buddhist monks who lived in the area during the Anuradhapura period reserved the hot springs. The Department of Archaeological Sri Lanka has designated the Kanniya Hot Spring site as a monument or site under protection.
Ancient remains are still visible today; however, the majority were destroyed when the Sri Lankan civil war concluded in 2009. The wells were likely a part of a pond complex utilized by the Buddhist monks of Velgam Vehera Buddhist Monastery, and several Buddhist structure remnants have been found all around the Kanniya Hot Spring site. According to the reign of King Ravana, the earth was pierced by the king’s sword in several locations, and fountains emerged from these points. This was the start of these hot water springs, and the water was hot. Consequently, this is a Ramayana Yatra-related location in Sri Lanka.
SNORKELING AT THE PIGEON ISLAND
Pigeon Island is well-known for its vivid coral reefs and variety of marine life, making it a popular snorkeling and diving location in Sri Lanka. On the northeastern side of the island, it is situated off the shore of Nilaveli, close to Trincomalee. As a marine national park, the island and the waters around it are protected, giving them a sanctuary for undersea species. Some of Sri Lanka’s healthiest and most varied coral reefs can be found on Pigeon Island. Snorkelers can explore these coral structures in the shallow seas surrounding the island, which is a great location. Pigeon Island’s crystal-clear waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including vibrant fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and different crustaceans.
Snorkelers may get a close-up look at this underwater habitat. Large Pigeon Island and Small Pigeon Island are the two distinct parts of Pigeon Island. Both provide excellent snorkeling opportunities, and moving between the two is simple while you’re there. Masks, snorkels, and fins are among the snorkeling accessories that may be rented on the island. However, if you have any of your own, it’s always a good idea to bring them along for a more relaxing and customized experience.
KONESWARAM TEMPLE
The Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee, a famous Hindu temple that is thought to have been around since 400 BC, has seen many prosperous years as well as many stormy ones during European conquest. The temple, which is housed inside the storied Fort Frederick, provides the ideal fusion of the island’s distinctive culture with its predominantly European surroundings. One of the most significant Hindu temples in the entire nation, the Koneswaram Temple is regarded as one of the Pancha Ishwarams (one of the five abodes of Lord Shiva). Since its founding, the temple has thrived thanks to the numerous conquering governments that have protected it, including the Anuradhapura Kingdom, the Chola Empire, the Pandyan Kingdom, and the Jaffna Kingdom.
Nevertheless, this hallowed sanctuary was permitted to be rebuilt by the successive colonisers, specifically the Dutch and the British. In addition, numerous missing objects were found during this time period from a variety of archaeologist excavations. Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Parvati sculptures, as well as many other decorations, have been added to the temple recently, showing how important this place of worship is to Sri Lankans.
PASIKUDA BEACH WATER SPORTING
A magnificent stretch of golden sand surrounded by a seemingly unending stretch of shallow waters may be found around 35 km from the coastal town of Batticaloa. This well-known bay, which locals refer to as Pasikuda, has calm waters and ideal weather, which create the ideal setting for you to partake in a variety of tempting watersport activities.
The Passikuda Beach offers the island’s longest stretch of shallow water, and the bay’s waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The bay is ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and even jetskiing because of its shallow waters, which can extend up to a length of around a km. You will find even more surprises beneath the waves when you descended into Pasi Kuda’s deeper waters.
Numerous coral colonies may be found in Pasi Kuda’s shallow and deep waters, and both are regarded as some of the most incredible diving locations.
Even more underwater gems lie just a few nautical miles from the shore; there are a number of wreck sites dispersed across the Pasikuda Seas that are a sight to behold and should be explored if you enjoy diving. The British military tanker HMS Hermes, which was sunk during World War II, is one of the most important of the wreck sites.
SIGIRIYA LION ROCK
An ancient rock castle and archaeological site called Sigiriya, commonly referred to as Lion Rock, is situated in Sri Lanka’s central Matale District. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in the nation. The stronghold is perched atop a huge rock that towers over the surrounding jungle by around 200 meters (660 ft). The Sinhalese terms “Sihagiri” (which means Lion Rock) and “Giri” (which means rock) are the source of the name “Sigiriya”. History of Sigiriya begins in the third century AD, when it was first utilized as a Buddhist monastery. King Kashyapa later converted it into a regal castle and opulent palace complex in the fifth century AD. He chooses this spot because of its strategic merits, including its defensibility and the attractiveness of the natural surroundings.
The Lion Gate, which lies near the fortress’s entrance and was initially envisioned to resemble a gigantic lion’s head, is Sigiriya’s most recognizable feature. The lion’s mouth served as the entrance route, which led to a staircase chiselled into the rock that led to the peak. The ancient ruins of Sigiriya continue to be a well-liked tourist site in Sri Lanka today, drawing tourists from all over the world who come to see the technical and aesthetic marvels of the past.
MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI
A notable wildlife refuge in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province is called Minneriya National Park. Wild elephant herds frequently congregate in the park, especially during the dry season when they visit the Minneriya Tank (reservoir) in search of water and to graze on the verdant grasslands. A safari in Minneriya National Park is a fantastic way to see these gorgeous animals and other wildlife up close and personal. The Sri Lankan metropolis of Colombo is roughly a 4-hour journey from the town of Habarana, where Minneriya National Park is located. Jeep safaris and boat safaris are both available in Minneriya National Park. A jeep safari is the most frequent and well-liked method of exploring the park because it enables you to access more locations and cover more terrain. Other animals that can be found in Minneriya National Park besides elephants are sambar deer, spotted deer, Sri Lankan axis deer (sometimes called “chital”), wild buffalo, jackals, several bird species, and occasionally leopards and sloth bears.
PIDURANGALA ROCK
An old rock formation called Pidurangala Rock can be seen in Sri Lanka close to Sigiriya. Due to its breathtaking vistas, historical value, and closeness to the well-known Sigiriya Rock Fortress, it is a well-liked hiking and tourist destination. In Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Pidurangala Rock is located just a few kilometres north of Sigiriya. It is a piece of a sizable complex of nearby caverns and rocks. Although a little difficult, the climb to the top of Pidurangala Rock is worthwhile. Pidurangala Rock is a well-liked location to view the sun rise and set. As the view from the top is just spectacular, many visitors opt to trek early in the morning to watch the sunrise.
Sunset vistas are equally beautiful and present a fantastic photographic opportunity. You’ll be rewarded for climbing to the top with expansive views of the surrounding landscape, which will include Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the distance. A captivating image is produced by the huge terrain, dense trees, and neighboring lakes. Pidurangala Rock is significant historically as well. It is the location of a historic Buddhist monastery that was founded in the first century BC. The rock has a number of caverns and ruins, which raise its cultural significance.
SIGIRIYA VILLAGE TOUR
Village tours may provide an uncommon window into the traditional rural way of life of the local inhabitants living close to the famous rock fortress in the Sigiriya region, which is renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty.
a guided tour of the countryside that enables guests to take in the natural beauty of the area, see rice fields, lush vegetation, and possibly see wildlife, interacting with the neighborhood peasants and seeing their everyday tasks, such farming and cooking. This provides insights into the genuine way of living in rural Sri Lanka. Enjoying a leisurely trip in a bullock cart, a slow, unassuming means of transportation that has been used in rural areas for decades, eating native cuisine made by the peasants in Sri Lanka. This could consist of a home-cooked lunch made with products purchased nearby, learning about and even trying your hand at local artisanal crafts like woodcarving, weaving, or pottery observing cultural performances featuring traditional dance, music, and other genres by regional performers and performing farming activities including planting or harvesting crops, learning about the local agricultural practices, conversing with the people to understand about their practices, traditions, and difficulties they encounter on a daily basis.
KANDY TOOTH RELIC TEMPLE
Vibrant frescoes that date back more than 2,000 years are painted on the cave’s walls and ceilings. The incidents from the Buddha’s life are depicted in these paintings, along with a number of gods and other historical people. The paintings shed important light on Sri Lanka’s ancient art and culture. The caves are home to more than 150 Buddha statues, including the largest reclining Buddha statue in Sri Lanka at 14 meters long. Other statues show the Buddha in seated and standing positions, each representing a distinct element of his life. Buddhists from all over the world come to the famed pilgrimage site known as the Dambulla Cave Temple. Sacred Tooth Relic, Architecture, Puja Ceremonies, Esala Perahera, and Museum are the temple’s main attractions. In addition to being a prominent religious monument, Sri Lanka’s Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is also a famous tourist destination. It invites tourists from all over the world who come to experience its meditative atmosphere, discover the depth of the nation’s Buddhist legacy, and take in the splendor of the temple’s architecture and celebrations during the Esala Perahera.
KANDY CULTURAL DANCE
The lively traditional dance performances of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural center, are legendary. The rich cultural heritage and aesthetic expressions of the island nation are displayed via these ancient dance styles. These enthralling performances can be seen by visitors to Kandy at a variety of locations throughout the city, including hotels, cultural centers, and during special occasions like the Esala Perahera festival.
The most recognizable and well-known traditional dance in Sri Lanka is the Kandyan dance. Dancers dress in ornate, vibrant outfits that are embellished with jewelry and hats. The dance includes intricate hand gestures, rhythmic footwork, and acrobatic feats. Drummers and musicians frequently accompany the dance while playing traditional instruments like the “Geta Beraya” (a pair of drums) and the “Yak Bera” (a cylindrical drum).
Another significant dancing style in Kandy is the Ves dance. It is distinguished by its slow, delicate motions, which frequently represent scenes from Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha’s earlier lives). The dancers’ exquisite, long-flowing costumes and masks give the show a supernatural quality. Udarata Natum, sometimes referred to as the “Kandyan dancing umbrella dance,” is a distinctive kind of dance in which dancers spin elaborate, colorful umbrellas in complex patterns as they move. This charming and expert dance displays the dancers’ coordination and quickness.
HORTON PLAINS
About 32 kilometres (20 miles) from the town of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s Horton Plains National Park is a stunning natural area. Due to its distinctive sceneries and wildlife, it is a well-liked tourism attraction for both domestic and foreign visitors. It is wise to be ready for unexpected shifts because the weather at Horton Plains may be rather unpredictable. It is advised to dress in layers and bring a lightweight rain jacket because the area can get cool in the early mornings and are frequently misty. The park has a number of hiking paths, with the circular path that leads to Baker’s Falls and the well-known World’s End viewpoint being the most well-liked.
The Horton Plains National Park in Sri Lanka is undoubtedly one of the most stunning World Heritage Sites on earth. The park is spread throughout Kirigalpotta and Totapola, the two tallest mountains in the region. The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka are made up of a plateau-like structure, heavy forests and mountains on one end, and plains on the other. This region of the country is home to several waterfalls, lakes, rocky hills, and ocean vistas. Many wild creatures and birds can be found in the forest, although the majority of the larger species are elusive and difficult to approach.
TRAIN RIDE NANU OYA TO ELLA
One of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful train trips is the one that runs from Nanu Oya to Ella. You can enjoy stunning vistas of verdant tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, tumbling waterfalls, and quaint rural communities as the train travels through the scenic hill country. Everyone visiting Sri Lanka should take this train trip; it is a favorite of both natives and visitors. The closest station to Nuwara Eliya is Nanu Oya Railway Station, where the train journey begins. Popular tourist locations like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are close to Nanu Oya by road. Ella Railway Station, a charming hill country town renowned for its breathtaking panoramas and energetic ambiance, is where the train excursion comes to an end. The train travels through stunning scenery, including hills covered in tea, thick forests, and a number of well-known vistas. The Nine Arch Bridge next to Demodara, the Ramboda Waterfall, and the Devon Waterfall are a few of the route’s beautiful features. Older trains on this route with open-door carriages let passengers enjoy unrestricted views and take beautiful pictures of the surrounding landscape. A first-class observation car with big windows is available on some trains, giving passengers a great vantage point and a great view of the passing scenery. The Nine Arch Bridge, which is close to Demodara station, is a popular location for photographers.
ELLA ROCK
Popular hiking trails may be found at Ella Rock in Ella, a charming hamlet in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. The town of Ella is a favorite with tourists and hikers because of its breathtaking surroundings, rich tea plantations, and temperate climate. The breath-taking panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside are Ella Rock’s greatest draw for hikers. Views of tea plantations, lush green valleys, and distant mountain ranges are all visible from the summit. Depending on your pace, the Ella Rock trail takes between two and three hours to reach the summit. The road travels through tea plantations, woodlands, and small towns, providing a blend of local culture and scenic splendor. To get to the actual granite summit, hikers must ascend steeply in the final stretch. Wearing the proper footwear and being cautious are crucial because the climb can be a little difficult. In order to see the sunrise from Ella Rock, many hikers choose to begin their walk early in the morning. As an alternative, you can go for a walk in the late afternoon to see a stunning sunset. Many photographers come to Ella Rock to take advantage of the amazing photo opportunities it offers and to document the natural beauty of the region. For those who enjoy the outdoors and the natural world, Ella Rock should be on your list of must-see sights in Sri Lanka.
NINE ARCH BRIDGE
The Nine Arch Bridge, commonly referred to as the Bridge in the Sky, is a well-known railway bridge situated in Sri Lanka’s hill area. It is located close to Ella, a well-liked tourist attraction renowned for its stunning settings and lovely scenery. An technical and architectural masterpiece, the Nine Arch Bridge. It was constructed in Sri Lanka somewhere in the early 20th century, during the time of British colonialism. The bridge gets its name from the nine arches that make it stand out. The arches and stone building stand out well against the surrounding lush greenery. The Ella region’s rich woodlands and tea plantations surround the bridge.
The bridge, which is still in use, connects Ella, a small town in Sri Lanka, with Demodara through a railway line. The scene is made even more charming and distinctive by the frequent train traffic that crosses the bridge. In Sri Lanka, the Nine Arch Bridge has grown to be a popular tourist destination, luring both domestic and foreign tourists. Tourists frequently throng to the bridge to take in the natural beauty, snap pictures, and feel the excitement of seeing a train pass through the arches. The Nine Arch Bridge is an iconic representation of Sri Lanka’s colonial past and the picturesque hill country, in addition to being a fascinating architectural marvel.
LITTLE ADAMS PEAK
Another well-known destination in Sri Lanka’s Ella region is Little Adam’s Peak. It is a beautiful hill with a short walk that provides breath-taking views of the surroundings. The nickname “Little Adam’s Peak” comes from the fact that it resembles the bigger and more well-known Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), which is situated in the Centre of Sri Lanka. Little Adam’s Peak’s summit walk is regarded as being rather simple and suited for hikers of all fitness levels. Little Adam’s Peak, despite its modest height, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings. Views of the Ella Gap, Ella Rock, Ravana Ella waterfall, and the huge tea plantations that dominate the area are seen from the peak. Little Adam’s Peak is a well-liked location to view the sun rise and set. Many visitors decide to trek early in the day to see the sunrise or later in the day to take in the breathtaking views of the sunset. Visitors get the chance to learn about tea growing and picking on the trail that leads to Little Adam’s Peak, which goes through tea estates. The walk is made more appealing by the surrounding scenery of immaculately kept tea bushes. Little Adam’s Peak is a popular location for photographers because of the scenic surroundings and breathtaking perspectives. Any photographer will enjoy capturing the area’s natural beauty and its distinctive sceneries.
UDAWALAWA NATIONAL PARK
One of Sri Lanka’s most well-known and well-liked national parks is Udawalawe. It is situated in the southern region of the nation, around 180 km southeast of Colombo, the nation’s capital. The park is renowned for its abundance of animals, especially its large population of wild elephants. Elephants, water buffalo, deer, wild boar, crocodiles, and several bird species are among the many animals that call the park home. In addition to elephants, Udawalawe is home to a number of noteworthy animal species, including sloth bears, leopards, and monkeys. In particular, Udawalawe is well-known for having a sizable population of Asian elephants. It is one of the greatest places in Sri Lanka to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat because there is a good probability that visitors would come across herds of elephants while on a safari. The main draw of Udawalawe National Park are safari tours. The Udawalawe Reservoir borders the park, which is distinguished by its wide-open grasslands that are scattered with scrub jungle. Udawalawe is home to the Elephant Transit Home, a facility for rehabilitating orphaned elephant calves, in addition to the national park. The facility’s goal is to take care of these elephants and eventually return them to the wild.
UDAWALAWA ELEPHANT TRANSIT
In Sri Lanka, next to the Udawalawe National Park, there is a conservation and rehabilitation facility for abandoned and hurt wild elephants called the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. The mission of the transit home is to save, heal, and release these elephants into their natural environments.
The Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation and various conservation organizations run the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, which opened its doors in 1995. Its main objective is to provide for elephant calves who have lost their moms due to a variety of factors, including poaching, conflicts involving people and elephants, and natural catastrophes. When newborn elephants are brought to the transit home, they are given shelter, wholesome food, and medical attention.
The committed group of vets, carers, and researchers carefully observes the elephants’ development to make sure they are receiving the greatest care. When the elephants are being fed, visitors to the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home can see them from a dedicated viewing area, minimizing any disruption to the animals. Visitors’ entrance fees and any donations go directly towards the upkeep and rehabilitation of the elephants.
The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is an essential part of Sri Lanka’s elephant conservation efforts and helps to save these magnificent animals and their natural habitats by offering a safe and caring environment for orphaned elephants.
COCONUT TREE HILL
As the name implies, Coconut Tree slope is a small slope that overlooks the beach and is covered in swaying coconut palms. The lush vegetation, golden sand beach, and the azure sea come together to create a gorgeous and Instagram-worthy scene. Coconut Tree Hill has a lot of visitors who want to take pictures of the stunning scenery, especially around sunrise and sunset when the lighting is best. The area has drawn both tourists and photographers, making it a popular destination.
With its lovely scenery of coconut palms, a golden sandy beach, and the clear blue ocean, Coconut Tree Hill provides an incredible vista. These natural components work together to create a peaceful and pleasant environment that draws tourists and photographers. In particular, Coconut Tree Hill is well known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Photographers and tourists who seek to capture the magical atmosphere of the location at these times highly value these moments. Couples and honeymooners seeking a romantic setting are drawn to Coconut Tree Hill by its scenic beauty and calm surroundings, which also create a romantic environment. Sri Lanka is renowned for its wide variety of tourist destinations, which include historical monuments, animal sanctuaries, and beautiful beaches.
SECRET BEACH
You must be familiar with Mirissa Beach if you intend to visit Mirissa. the town’s principal beachfront in the stunning south. Actually, Mirissa Beach might be one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning beaches. Hidden Beach Small sandy beach Mirissa is divided into two main beach areas that are tucked away towards the west of the town. Everyone is aware of it, but because it is a little harder to get to than the main strip, many people choose to overlook it. It’s also possible that people don’t travel over since the sand is a little bit course here than at Mirissa Beach. The Secret Beach in Mirissa is pristine, relatively private, and stunning. It includes two coves with brilliant blue sea and toffee-colored sand, as well as low-hanging trees for abundant shade and a lovely expanse of deserted shore to lie on.
This beach is ideal for a calm wade because of the gentle waves and warm water. After going on a safari in Yala National Park, spending a day in Kandy, climbing the Lion Rock in Sigiriya, and touring the Elephant Trash Dump in Dambulla, it was just what we were hoping for. If you do some exploration, you can come across some amazing species, like peacocks and black monkeys.
WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING
The popular and thrilling sport of whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa draws many of people to this seaside resort in southern Sri Lanka. Mirissa is well known for being adjacent to numerous whale species’ migration routes, making it the perfect place to see these magnificent animals up close and in their natural habitat. The blue whale, the largest creature on Earth, is frequently seen by tourists. Sperm whale sightings are also frequent, and they are the biggest toothed whales. Along with these enormous whales, tourists might also see Bryde’s whales or, less frequently, killer whales (orcas). In addition to whales, Mirissa is home to several different dolphin species. Spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and Risso’s dolphins are the three most often seen dolphin species. In Mirissa, whale and dolphin watching excursions are typically supervised by knowledgeable naturalists and guides who give interesting facts about the marine environment. A remarkable experience for nature lovers and photographers, the boat excursion gives excellent views of the picturesque coastline and the Indian Ocean in addition to the thrill of sighting whales and dolphins. Keep in mind that sightings are subject to the unpredictable nature of nature, just like with any wildlife-watching activity. However, it was a remarkable and exciting adventure overall to be out on the open sea and see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
STILT FISHING GALLE
The southern coast of Sri Lanka, especially the Galle area, once saw the use of the ancient fishing method known as stilt fishing. However, it’s crucial to remember that stilt fishing is no longer as popular and is now more of a tourist attraction than a main kind of fishing.
In stilt fishing, which is often done in shallow seas, fisherman perch on wooden stilts cemented into the seabed. They use a fishing rod and line while standing on these stilts to catch fish. It’s an unusual and aesthetically arresting sight to see fisherman patiently waiting for their catch while perched on these small stilts.
Overfishing, modifications to fishing techniques, and the effects of tourism have all presented difficulties for stilt fishing over time. Alternative fishing techniques that are more efficient and practical have become popular among fisherman. Even though you might still see stilt fishing demonstrations in some tourist sites, it’s crucial to show respect and recognize that the local fishermen no longer regularly practice this kind of subsistence.
There may be possibilities to see or participate in staged demonstrations of stilt fishing if you’re interested, but it’s best to do so responsibly, in a way that supports local communities and respects their traditions.
WELIGAMA SURFING
Weligama is a well-known surfing location on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, around 30 km east of Galle. It is well-known for having stunning beaches, warm waters, and reliable surf breakers that make it a great place for both inexperienced and expert surfers.
Weligama Bay, the primary surfing beach in the area, is home to a number of surf shops and board rentals for surfers of all skill levels. It’s the perfect place to learn how to surf because the waves are often gentle and safe for beginners. There are additional neighboring surf breaks including Midigama, Mirissa, and Ahangama if you’re a more experienced surfer seeking bigger and more difficult waves.
GALLE DUTCH FORTRESS
The Galle Dutch fortification, commonly referred to as the Galle Fort or the Galle Fortifications, is a historic fortification that can be found in the Sri Lankan city of Galle. It has great historical and architectural value and is one of South Asia’s best-preserved examples of a fortress from the colonial era. The Galle Dutch Fortress was initially constructed by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, but the Dutch later heavily reinforced and enlarged it while they were in control of Sri Lanka’s colonial affairs. After seizing possession of Galle in 1640, the Dutch East India Company began fortifying the area to protect the vital trading port and bolster their authority over the Indian Ocean’s sea lanes. Sri Lanka’s Galle Dutch Fortress is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a well-liked tourist destination. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully preserved streets, visit galleries, museums, and shops, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the fort walls. In addition, it is a lively district with many of eateries, stores, and cafes that serve both tourists and locals. The fortress is a reminder of the island’s strategic importance during the height of the spice trade and marine exploration in the area, and it stands as a memorial to its colonial past.
SEA TURTLE HATCHERY
Galle, a coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, is home to numerous sea turtle hatcheries and conservation facilities. The breeding grounds of sea turtles, which are essential for their survival as endangered marine species, are protected and conserved by these hatcheries. The hatchery’s main goal is to safeguard sea turtle nests that are located along local beaches. The gathered eggs are then placed in specific sand enclosures or incubation chambers, where temperature and humidity are adjusted to resemble natural nesting conditions. Galle’s sea turtle hatcheries frequently provide educational events and public awareness initiatives for tourists and the neighborhood. These programs seek to increase public knowledge of the value of maintaining sea turtle nesting grounds, the risks they face, and the significance of sea turtle conservation. In Galle, some sea turtle hatcheries serve as hospitals and rehabilitation facilities for sick or injured marine mammals. Before being returned to the water, they offer the turtles a secure area to heal and receive medical attention. Green turtles, hawksbill turtles, loggerhead turtles, leatherback turtles, and olive ridley turtles are just a few of the sea turtle species that Galle’s sea turtle hatcheries are likely to help preserve. Travelers have a special chance to learn about these amazing marine animals, aid in their conservation, and see the breath-taking moment when newborn turtles are released into the ocean thanks to the sea turtle hatcheries in Galle.
