Boat Ride - Glide Through Serene Waters
Boat Ride
Take a serene ride through the beautiful lagoons, rivers, and coastal waters of Sri Lanka. From exploring the mangrove-lined, crooked waterways of the Madu River, to a cruise along the tranquil waters of Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya, or drifting through the serene backwaters of Bentota, boat rides offer sights of the island that’ll show off its natural aesthetic. Feel the soft breeze, see local fishermen at work, and look out for the vast variety of birdlife and playful otters. It’s a serene getaway to the heart of Sri Lanka’s aquatic landscapes.
Jeep Safari in National Park - Witness Wildlife Wonders
Jeep Safari
Experience the thrill of a jeep safari in one of Sri Lanka’s renowned national parks, where the wild comes alive right in front of your eyes. So, whether you are touring the deep vestiges of Yala, Udawalawe, or Wilpattu, a safari gives visitors a chance to spot the most magnificent of creatures: elephants, secretive leopards, and a many other different wild species. As your jeep bounces over the dirt tracks, listen to the cry of exotic birds, spot crocodiles basking in the sun, and marvel at breathtaking landscapes such as dense jungles bordered by sweeping panoramas of open grasslands. A jeep safari is the ultimate adventure for a flora-fauna enthusiast in Sri Lanka.
Hiking - Summit the Heights
Hiking
Diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka offer infinite opportunities for hiking—from gentle strolling to trekking in challenging terrains. Be it the iconic sunrise trek to Adam’s Peak, the thick forest covers of the Sinharaja rainforest, or walking the undulating landscape of Ella, every hike unfolds a new chapter of natural splendor of this island nation. There are a number of cascading waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and the warm smiles of locals in the villages on your way. Hiking in Sri Lanka is a physical but also somewhat spiritual journey, putting you in touch with the serene beauty of the island.
Kite Surfing - Feel the Adrenaline of Riding the Wind
Kite Surfing
Surf the air by kite along windy shores in Sri Lanka and feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins. The best destination for this adventurous sport is Kalipitiya, with its constant winds and extensive lagoons. Wind fills your kite in a matter of minutes, and there you go—ride above the turquoise waters with the sun in your face and the wind in your hair. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, kite surfing in Sri Lanka is an exhilarating way to experience the island’s stunning coastal scenery.
Snorkeling: Explore Underwater Worlds
Snorkeling
Dive into the crystal-clear waters off the Sri Lankan coast and experience the wonders of underwater life. Colorful coral gardens, busy with schools of tropical fish, and the occasional turtle are guaranteed on a trip to Pigeon Island, Hikkaduwa, or Mirissa with a highly recommended tour operator. As you drift over the coral, you’ll be entranced by the riot of colors and the gentle rhythm of the ocean. Snorkeling in Sri Lanka is an effortless and magical way to interact with the nation’s rich marine biodiversity.
Scuba Diving - Feel the Dive
Scuba Diving
The underwater topography of the country offers coral dives, as well as some of the most famous shipwreck dives. Explore the color of corals in Unawatuna, meet the giants—mantas in Trincomalee, or dive through shipwrecks in Colombo. The moment you sink into blue waters, you’ll meet schools of fish, graceful sea turtles, and casts of marine life that will make the dives a tale to recount. Diving in Sri Lanka is journeying through the unseen parts of the ocean.
Cycling - Pedal Through Paradise
Cycling
Cycle your way through the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka, and capture its essence at your own pace. Whether it be pedaling out through the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya, among the ancient ruins at Polonnaruwa, or down the coastal road of Galle, cycling is an up-close way to get a feel for this island’s natural and cultural treasures. At the same time, one passes by the small village scenes, lush tea estates, and points of breathtaking views, with enough time to pause and experience the beautiful sights and sounds of Sri Lanka.
Camping - Sleep Under the Stars
Camping
Experience nature at its best on a camping trip. Whether you’re pitching a tent on the sandy shores of Arugam Bay, among the emerald hills of the Knuckles Mountain Range, or within the untamed open spaces of a national park, camp presents a unique way to experience the island’s beauty. As night falls around you, sit back, listening to the sounds of the jungle while gazing at a star-filled sky. Camping is an opportunity to mute the world and be one with nature again in the wilderness of Sri Lanka.
Fishing - Cast a line in tropical waters
Fishing
Join an ancient tradition of angling in abundant waters. You might join local fishermen in a traditional outrigger canoe, cast off the coast in Negombo, or go deep-sea fishing in the Indian Ocean—whatever you choose, this pursuit is the tranquil and satisfying way to enter into contact with the maritime culture of the island.. Just find a perfect spot, relax, and enjoy the calm atmosphere as the boat sways back and forth. Fishing in Sri Lanka is not about the catch, but rather about getting into a rhythm with life on the sea.
Cultural Sightseeing - A Journey Through Time
Cultural Sightseeing
Stroll through Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, where stories of ancient civilizations, the depths of colonialism, and the warmth of vibrant traditions await around every corner. Visit the famous temples of Anuradhapura, the royal palaces of Polonnaruwa, and the hallowed city of Kandy with its Temple of the Tooth, within which lies the relic of the Enlightened One. One will also get the opportunity to view a number of busy local markets, riotous festivals, and other historical sites epitomizing the diverse culture of the island. Cultural sightseeing in Sri Lanka immerses one into a world where history and tradition live in every detail.
Train Ride - Considered to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world
Train Ride
Take a journey on one of the most picturesque train journeys across the globe as you chug through the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka. Whether you are winding your way through the misty hills of the central highlands on the iconic Kandy to Ella route or passing by lush green tea plantations and cascading waterfalls, a train ride through Sri Lanka is more than mere transportation—it’s a scenic adventure. Backseat, relax, and let the rhythmic clatter of the train take you through some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery, with glimpses of rural life, vibrant towns, and panoramic vistas.
Turtle Hatchery: Sea Turtles Sanctuary
Turtle Hatchery
Your visit to one of Sri Lanka’s turtle hatcheries will bring you up close and personal with such efforts in action. It is in these facilities that resilient conservation programs are underway to help protect and rehabilitate endangered sea turtles. There are plenty of hatcheries along the southern coast, in places like Bentota, Kosgoda, and Rekawa. They provide an insight into the life cycle of the sea turtls—right from the egg stage to the hatchlings, their incubation process, and finally, their release into the ocean. Witness this delightful scene of baby turtls’ first steps toward the open waters of the ocean and work on saving them for future generations.
Stargazing - Celestial Wonders
Stargazing
Leave behind the glare of city lights and gaze up at the night sky for a spellbinding show of stars. In Sri Lanka’s countryside and national parks, under clear and light-pollution-free skies, stargazing becomes magical. Whether you are in the remote landscapes of the Knuckles Mountain Range, the open plains of Yala, or the tranquil beaches of the east coast, the night sky comes alive with constellations, shooting stars, and the distant glow of the Milky Way. The act of stargazing in Sri Lanka is a peaceful way to unite with the universe and the island’s inborn beauty.
Cooking - A Culinary Journey
Cooking
Learn the secrets of Sri Lanka’s vibrant cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Join local chefs in their traditional kitchen to discover the art of blending spices, fresh ingredient preparation, and cooking on an open flame. In this class, you will learn all that goes into making aromatic curries and coconut sambol, and how to prepare perfect hoppers. You have the pleasure of relishing your concoctions to the real flavor and feast on a real Sri Lankan meal that will linger in your memory long after your visit.
Kayaking - Rowing Through Serene Waters
Kayaking
Experience Sri Lanka’s picturesque rivers, lakes, and lagoons in this tranquil kayak adventure. Paddle down the serene waters of the Bentota River or around scenic Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya, and through the mangrove-lined estuaries of the Madu Ganga. Kayak on this tranquil land, you will see some of the local wildlife: crocodiles warming in the sun on riverbanks, kingfishers in their myriad of colors, and water monitors. Not only does kayaking provide superb exercise in one of the most serene environments in Sri Lanka, but one also gets closer to the natural beauty of the island on one’s own behest.
Horse Riding - Ride Through Stunning Landscapes
Horse Riding
Experience the beauty of Sri Lankan landscapes from a totally different angle—horse riding. Whether it is galloping over the sandy beaches of the eastern coastline, ambling around the rolling hills of Nuwara Eliya, or trotting around lush tea plantations nestled in the central highlands, horse riding is the adventurous way to explore the diversity of landscapes on the island. You’ll be in the hands of knowledgeable guides, making it easier for you to connect with nature and have the thrill of moving by horseback through some of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.
Golf - Tee Off in Paradise
Golf
Ceylon offers a perfect vacation with championship courses set in stunning landscapes. Play amidst misty mountains at Kandy’s Victoria & Country Resort, the historic Royal Colombo Club, or the scenic Nuwara Eliya Club in tea country. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, Ceylon’s playing charm and breathtaking views make it a true paradise.
Whale Watching - Giants of the Deep
Whale Watching
Join in on a sailing adventure on the blue waters off Sri Lanka for a lifetime’s experience in whale watching. The main locations to see these beautiful creatures include Mirissa, Trincomalee, and Kalpitiya, in addition to the majestic blue whale, which is the largest in the entire world. As you sail along the Indian Ocean, keep an eye out for frolicking dolphins, giant sperm whales, and even a wandering sea turtle. Whale watching in Sri Lanka gives you an opportunity to observe these gentle giants at their very own home, a sight you will never forget.
Trekking - Explore Untamed Wilderness
Trekking
Explore the steaming heartland of Sinharaja, the rainforests bursting at the edges with life. Join the peaks of the island’s most spectacular mountain range—the Knuckles—on a hike up Adam’s Peak; the pilgrimage to its sacred summit is one of the most eagerly anticipated adventures in Sri Lanka. Along the way, there are rollicking waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views that stretch on into the horizon. Hiking in Sri Lanka invites a bond with nature, the ability to test oneself, and the wills of discovery that will open throughout the island’s untapped beauty.
Tea Plantation Tours - Sip the Soul of Sri Lanka
Ceylon Tea Tour
Explore the lush green tea plantations that cover the central highlands of Sri Lanka—the ideal environment, with its cool misty air and rolling hills, for the cultivation of world-renowned Ceylon tea. Wander around such lush green terraces in Nuwara Eliya, Ella, or Kandy and see the legacies left in the production of the same magical tea for generations on end. Take guided tours for tea picking and processing to understand the detailed workmanship behind each cup. Top it off with a unique tea tasting session, relishing flavors synonymous with Sri Lanka’s most celebrated export. It’s not just a tour—it’s a journey into the very heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural and agrarian heritage.
