The seaside town of Galle is 116 km from Colombo by road or rail down the south-west coast. Today the town has grown greatly and spreads into the hinterland but the Fort is the slow beating heart of Galle's history. The walled city has stood since the early sixteenth century through the colonial periods of the Portuguese, Dutch and British and in the present times is proclaimed as an Archaeological Reserve and is identified as a living World Heritage Site.

A monument of particular interest in the Fort is “The Dutch Reformed Church” is near the Amangalla Hotel. The church was built in 1640. However, it was remodeled between 1752 and 1755. The church is paved with grave stones from the Old Dutch cemetery. The visitor should pause to study two stone lets into the walls over the entrance and the exit of this gateway which tells the story of the conquests of the old city. Nothing bespeaks the town's prosperity in British times as the splendid mansions with the names of Closenburg, Eddy stone, Barth field, Armitage Hill or Nooit-Gedacht, a few of which though wrought with time's changes still exist. The best preserved is Glosenburg. A drive to Baddegama is a delightful experience and leads out to the fine church consecrated in 1825 by Bishop Heber – Bishop of Calcutta. The church today is decorated in a purely indigenous style and at Mass the Sri Lanka Litturgy is said in Sinhala.

Kandy is a city in the center of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. The city lies in the midst of hills in the Kandy plateau, which crosses an area of tropical plantations, mainly tea. Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka; it is both an administrative and religious city. Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most venerable places for the Buddhist community of Sri Lanka and all around the world. It was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988. The city of Kandy lies at an elevation of 465 metres (1,526 ft) above sea level.

Sri Dalada Maligawa or The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace complex which houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhalese kings and is a UNESCO world heritage site partly due to the temple.

Sigiriya (Lion's rock) is a large stone and ancient rock fortress and palace ruin in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka, surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. A popular tourist destination, Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (frescos) which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. It is within the cultural triangle, which includes five of the eight world heritage sites in Sri Lanka. It is one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. It is also declared by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Sigiriya may have been inhabited through prehistoric times. It was used as a rock-shelter mountain monastery from about the 5th century BC, with caves prepared and donated by devotees of the Buddhist Sangha. According to the chronicles as Mahavamsa the entire complex was built by King Kashyapa (AD 477 – 495), and after the king's death, it was used as a Buddhist monastery until 14th century.

Located in south-west Sri Lanka, Sinharaja is the country's last viable area of primary tropical rainforest. More than 60% of the trees are endemic and many of them are considered rare. There is much endemic wildlife, especially birds, but the reserve is also home to over 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic species of mammals and butterflies. Sinharaja Forest Reserve is situated in the south-west lowland wet zone of Sri Lanka. Sinharaja Forest Reserve, comprising the existing and proposed forest reserves, was declared a biosphere reserve in 1978.

The vegetation of Sinharaja may be described either as a tropical lowland rain forest or tropical wet evergreen forest. Average height of the trees varies between 35m – 40m. The untapped genetic potential of Sinharaja flora is enormous out of the 211 woody trees and lianas so far identified within the reserve 139 (66%) are endemic.

Peak Wilderness sanctuary is the third largest by area natural reserve of the 50 that are in Sri Lanka.

Peak Wilderness sanctuary is a tropical rain forest that spreads over a land of 224 square kilometers around the Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) mountain. Peak Wilderness was declared a wildlife sanctuary on 1940.

Horton Plains National Park is a protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is covered by montane grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 metres (6,900–7,500 ft) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. This region was designated a national park in 1988. It is also a popular tourist destination and is situated 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Nuwara Eliya.

The Knuckles Mountain Range lies in central Sri Lanka, in the Districts of Matale and Kandy. The range takes its name from a series of recumbent folds and peaks in the west of the massif which resembles the knuckles of clenched fist when viewed from certain locations in the Kandy District. Whilst this name was assigned by early British surveyors, the Sinhalese residents have traditionally referred to the area as Dumbara Kanduvetiya meaning mist-laden mountain range.

Bentota Beach is an oasis of tranquility and is one of the well established beach resorts of the country.  It is also a haven for the water sports enthusiasts where the possibilities here are endless. Bentota is located 60 kilometres from Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo. Located along the South West coastline in Sri Lanka, Bentota is extremely popular among the international travellers for its top class touristic facilities and services.

It is also a fantastic location for numerous water sports activities such as snorkeling, jet-skiing, diving, body-surfing, windsurfing and parasailing. Renowned hotels in Bentota that offers comfortable accommodation along with the excitement of the Beach include Sri Villas, Bentota Beach Hotel, Taj Exotica, Induruwa Beach Resort, Club Villa Bentota and much more.

Mount Lavinia boasts of top class restaurants, well appointed hotels and exceptional urban lifestyle. However, undeniably its best and biggest attraction is the stunning tropical beach. Located on the Galle Road and positioned only 12 kilometres from the city of Colombo, Mount Lavinia has always been a favorite among both local and international travelers.  The beach resort of Mt. Lavinia is mainly popular for its clean blue waters, white sandy beach and calm winds. It is also regarded as a perfect spot for sea bathing. It is believed that the name Mount Lavinia derived from the residence of Governor Sir Thomas Maitland. The house is now transformed in to the world renowned Mount Lavinia Hotel that lies along the spectacular beach.  

Like many other golden beaches that can be found throughout the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, Mount Lavinia Beach too is a playground for the adventurous type.  Water sports such as diving, swimming, wind surfing, sailing, snorkelling are all possible here. Travellers will also have the opportunity to explore the magnificent coral reefs and underwater flora and fauna. There is also so much to learn from the fishing community living right along the coast.

The Negombo Beach is yet another unique treasure of ‘the blessed land’, Sri Lanka. Negombo, which is, positioned not too far away from the commercial capital, Colombo lies as close as just 5 kilometres from the Colombo International Airport. Above all, it occupies the finest location to spend a memorable holiday while experiencing the best of sun, sand and beach. Due to its perfect location and proximity to the airport, the Negombo Beach attracts travellers heading in or out of the island.  It is also a great stopover for those on their way to explore the wonders of the hill country.

The atmosphere of this stunning beach provides its visitors an unmatched experience on the daily life of the fishing community. The Negombo Beach is a haven for water sport enthusiasts who wish to enjoy activities such as wind surfing and diving. Water sport equipment are readily available at the nearby hotels, or can also be rented or purchased by the many private vendors located close to the beach.

Hikkaduwa is one of the well-known and admired beach resorts of this paradise island. It is positioned 98 kilometres south from the commercial capital, Colombo. The extraordinarily attractive beach of Hikkaduwa is a place of fun and excitement and always has something for everyone. The only marine sanctuary of the country is situated in Hikkaduwa since its inception in 1979. The Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary is home to around 70 diverse types of corals and is constantly frequented by the likes of conservators, scientists and biologists. A beautiful stretch of a 1.5 kilometre long beach runs parallel to the coral reefs of this beautiful marine sanctuary.

The beach of Hikkaduwa is a great place to enjoy numerous water sports activities, as well is the venue for the annual beach festival that attractions local and international travellers in large numbers.  With regard to the various sports and leisure activities that are on offer, one of the unique highlights of the Hkkaduwa Beach is the glass bottom boat rides that are ever popular amongst nature lovers.   It is a place of discovery and wonder for the likes of  snorkelers, wind surfers, divers and for those who wish to enjoy an enthralling deep sea fishing experience.  The breathtaking beaches are also perfect for those who simply want to relax, gaze at the Indian Ocean and ponder on the earth’s beauty.

About 5 km south of Galle is the golden beach of Unawatuna. It is also one of the safest beaches in Sri Lanka as it is protected by a reef. Surfing, snorkeling & diving are some of the water sports you can participate here. All the equipment you need can be rented from many a beachfront place.

Mirissa and its breathtaking sandy beach pretty much transforms your dreams and visions of a tropical paradise into an everyday reality. Located close to the Southern tip of the Island of Sri Lanka. This secluded crescent shaped beach is the perfect place to sit back, relax and forget about all the hussle and bussle of your other life that’s a million miles away. This small sandy tropical beach boasts some of Sri Lanka’s best and most stunning sunsets and sunrises.

Whale and Dolphin watching is ideal in Mirissa during the months of December to April. All you need to take is a boat, few kilometers from the shore. Pods of Dolphins can be seen accompanying boats frequently during the said months. Blue and Sperm Whales in large numbers frequent the coastline of Sri Lanka during this period and can be viewed near Mirissa beach.

Trincomalee beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. Every year thousands of local and international tourists come here to spend their vacations. Trincomalee beach is located 250km away from the Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo and about 115 miles south of Jaffna. This place is more popular among people for its fine white sand beaches, crystal clear water and for the harbor. Some people come here to do sports such as surfing, scuba diving and some are coming just to relax and spend holidays. Whale and dolphin watching is also one of the main tourist attractions in this area.

Arugam Bay surf beach is located 314 km from Colombo, 2 ½ km south of the small town of Pottuvil in the Ampara district of Dry Zone South-east coast of Sri Lanka. Arugam Bay Beach, a wide sweeping sandy beach in front of the village of Arugam Bay is an attraction for swimming all year-round. Arugam Bay's first international surfing competition was held by ISA (International Surfing Association) in the summer of 2004. The long, consistent right hand point break at the southern end of the Arugam Bay beach makes it the finest surf spot in Sri Lanka. Arugam Bay Beach with its coral reef being home to an abundance of tropical fish affords delightful snorkeling opportunities. The beach isn’t the only attraction at Arugam Bay. The countryside of the village of Arugam Bay brings about loveliest sceneries that span over mangrove, jungle, lagoon, river, rice fields and dunes.

Kalkuda beach is located 282km east of Colombo in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. Passekudah beach is located just south of Kalkuda beach. The Eastern coast extending from Yala National Park (South East) spreads right up to the beautiful beaches of Nilaveli and Uppuveli at Trincomalee in the North-eastern coast.

Passekudah and Kalkudah beaches adorned with coconut palms set up an ideal stretch for bathing, Windsurfing and water skiing. Kalkudah Bay is a 2km long wide stretch of beach well protected by the off shore reef. Passekuda beach is wide and long. It spread along for 4km long just south of Kalkudah. The beach also houses a varied number of tropical fishes and exotic coral reefs. The combined beaches of Kalkudah and Passekudah are ideal for bathing as the sea is clear, calm and reef- protected: perfect setting for sun bathing, windsurfing, and skiing.

YalaNational Park or RuhunaNational Park is the second largest and most visited national park in Sri Lanka. Yala is situated in the southeast region of the country, and lies in Southern Province and Uva Province. The park covers 979 square kilometres (378 sq mi) and is about 300 kilometres (190 mi) from Colombo. It had originally had been designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and, along with Wilpattu it was one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka, having been designated in 1938. The park is best known for its variety of its wild animals. It is important for the conservation of Sri Lankan Elephants and aquatic birds.

Kumana National Park in Sri Lanka is renowned for its avifauna, particularly its large flocks of migratory waterfowl and wading birds. The park is 391 kilometres (243 mi) southeast of Colombo on Sri Lanka's southeastern coast. Kumana is contiguous with Yala National Park. Kumana was formerly known as Yala East National Park, but changed to its present name in 5 September 2006. Kumbukkan Oya forms the southern boundary of the national park. Some 20 lagoons and tanks support the extensive birdlife of the national park. The lagoons are shallow with depths less than 2 metres (6.6 ft). Kumana villu is subject to occasional inundation with seawater. The elevation of the area ranges from sea level to 90 metres (300 ft). The mean annual temperature is 27.30 °C (81.14 °F) and the area receives 1,300 millimetres (51.18 in) of annual rainfall.

WilpattuNational Park (Willu-pattu; Land of Lakes) is a park located on the island of Sri Lanka. The unique feature of this park is the existence of “Willus” (Natural lakes) - Natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater. Located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka. The park is located 30km west Anuradhapura and located 26 km north of Puttalam (approximately 180 km north of Colombo). The park is 131, 693 hectares and ranges from 0 to 152 meters above sea level.

Udawalawe National Park lies on the boundary of Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, in Sri Lanka. The reason for creating the national park was to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir on the Walawe River, as well as to protect the catchment of the reservoir. The reserve covers 30,821 hectares (119.00 sq mi) of land area and was established on 30 June 1972. Before the designation of the national park, the area was used for shifting cultivation (chena farming). The farmers were gradually removed once the national park was declared. The park is 165 kilometres (103 mi) from Colombo. Udawalawe is an important habitat for water birds and Sri Lankan Elephants. It is a popular tourist destination and the third most visited park in the country

HortonPlainsNational Park is a protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is covered by montane grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 metres (6,900–7,500 ft) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. This region was designated a national park in 1988. It is also a popular tourist destination and is situated 32 kilometres (20 mi) from NuwaraEliya.

The Horton Plains are the headwaters of three major Sri Lankan rivers, the Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe. In Sinhala the plains are known as Mahaweli Plains. Stone tools dating back to Balangoda culture have been found here. The plains' vegetation is grasslands interspersed with montane forest, and includes many endemic woody plants. Large herds of Sri Lankan Sambar Deer feature as typical mammals, and the park is also an Important Bird Area with many species not only endemic to Sri Lanka but restricted to the Horton Plains. Forest dieback is one of the major threats to the park and some studies suggest that it is caused by a natural phenomenon. The sheer precipice of World's End and Baker's Falls are among the tourist attractions of the park.

Bundala National Park is an internationally important wintering ground for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka. Bundala harbors 197 species of Birds, the highlight being the Greater Flamingo, which migrate in large flocks. Bundala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and redesignated to a national park on 4 January 1993. In 1991 Bundala became the first wetland to be declared as a Ramsar site in Sri Lanka. In 2005 the national park was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, the fourth biosphere reserve in Sri Lanka. The national park is situated 245 km southeast of Colombo

Hikkaduwa National Park is one of the two marinenational parks in Sri Lanka. The national park contains a fringingcoral reef of high degree of biodiversity. The area was declared a wildlife sanctuary on May 18, 1979, and then on August 14, 1988, upgraded to a nature reserve with extended land area. The growth of the number of visitors in the next 25 years increased the degradation of the coral reef. To reduce the effects to the ecosystem, the reef was declared a national park on September 19, 2002.

The highest town in Sri Lanka is Nuwara Eliya, South East of Kandy. Known for its British Heritage of Hereford Castle, strawberries and golf course, all of which thrive in its eternal spring-like climate. It is nevertheless Sri Lankan with all the colour and bustle expected of a busy market town. A visit to a tea plantation should not be missed to appreciate a vital part of Sri Lankan economy since 1850. Hakgala gardens, nestling below Hakgala Peak, offer one of the most beautiful views in Sri Lanka.

As with many countries, it is become a tourist favorite to take a flight to see the sights. Sri Lanka currently operates Hot Air Balloons from the Cultural Triangle in the North Central Province and Galle in the South coast. Hot air ballooning in Sri Lanka has enjoyed increasing popularity over recent years, but techniques have changed slightly since the first adventurers braved the elements and scaled the heights.

Floating at heights of 500 to 2000 feet on average, this feeling of peace and tranquillity is apparent from the extent of sighs & smiles as the earth seems to slowly descend & rotate below you whilst the views rapidly expand. There are many enthusiasts the world over that partakes in hot air ballooning events and to watch one of these events, with their many colourful balloons, is truly a magnificent sight, like no other. No other excursion can match the bird’s eye view, beauty and splendours of the Sri Lankan landscape as a balloon flight.

Imagine floating in air, feeling completely weightless and gliding through the atmosphere putting all your cares into perspective. With barely a wisp of a breeze to touch your skin, balloon rides are one way of finding yourself at one with nature and seeing the world from a bird's eye view. Balloon rides in Sri Lanka are becoming more popular and with private launch sites within the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka - Kandalama, Sigiriya, Dambulla; The FORT – Galle, Tissamaharama, ; Buttala/Yala: The Sugar and Safari Village as the Sri Lankan country side is often referred to, we offer the most sensational flyover experience.

May to September is the best period for surfing in Sri Lanka as the winds are strongest during this period. Arugam bay on the east coast is Sri Lanka's best beach for surfing. Other beaches famous for surfing are Hikkaduwa on the southwestern coast and Bentota on the western coast.

There are several dive sites along Sri Lanka's coastline where one gets an opportunity to see fantastic marine life such as corals, ship wrecks, myriad tropical fish, coral fish, angle fish and puffer fish. Hikkaduwa and Tangalle on the west coast, Unawatuna on the south coast and Nilaveli on the east coast are wonderful places for scuba diving and snorkeling. The best time for diving and snorkeling on the west coast is from November to April and on the east coast is from April to September as the seas are calmest during this period.

Sri Lanka has hundreds of rivers and small streams that originate from hills and offer excellent water sports facilities. Some of the rivers such as Kelani River in Kitulgala, southwest of Kandy, are very popular among tourists for rafting purposes. Popular sites for canoeing are the Kalu Ganga (Black River) and the Kelani Ganga.