Our top five activities to do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is often known as one of the most captivating travel destinations in the world, and for good reason. Otherwise called the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," this island nation offers an incredible array of experiences packed into its small, teardrop-shaped geography. From mesmerising landscapes and rich cultural heritage to exotic wildlife and friendly locals, Sri Lanka is a place that promises to enchant every visitor.

First and foremost, Sri Lanka boasts an impressive variety of natural landscapes, each more beautiful than the last. The country’s coastline is adorned with golden sandy beaches, with places like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Jungle beach being particularly popular for their pristine beauty and vibrant beach culture. These beaches offer more than just relaxation, they’re also hubs for water sports, including surfing and snorkelling.

The rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka is another compelling reason to visit. A history that spans over 2,500 years has left the island dotted with ancient cities, sacred temples, and colonial architecture. These historical landmarks offer not just a visual treat, but also a spiritual and intellectual journey through time. The vibrant and diverse culture of Sri Lanka further adds to its appeal. The island is home to a mix of ethnic communities, including Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher peoples, each contributing to a rich cultural mosaic. 

Finally, what truly makes Sri Lanka special is its people. Known for their warmth and hospitality, Sri Lankans go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. Whether you’re staying in our villa liaising with your private chef, or roaming around the local towns, you will encounter friendly locals eager to share their stories, culture, and recommendations. This genuine hospitality leaves a lasting impression, turning a holiday into a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply looking to relax, Sri Lanka promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

1. Mulkirigala Rock Temples

We highly recommend our guests to visit the Mulkirigala Rock Temples, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, these temples offer an unparalleled blend of cultural richness, spiritual depth, and natural beauty. Also known as Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara, this ancient Buddhist temple complex is set atop a soaring rock formation, approximately 205 metres high. This historic site dates back to the 3rd century BC and provides a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s illustrious past, with its exquisite rock carvings, intricate frescoes, and breathtaking statues of Lord Buddha. Each level of the rock, accessed by a series of ancient stone steps, unveils a new layer of historical and religious significance, creating a journey that is as enlightening as it is awe-inspiring.

One of the key reasons for visiting is the serene and tranquil environment it offers. Away from the hustle and bustle of the more tourist-heavy areas, the Mulkirigala Rock Temples provide a peaceful retreat where visitors can meditate, reflect, and connect with the spiritual essence of the location. The panoramic views from the summit are magnificent, offering a sweeping vista of the lush, verdant landscape that stretches out below, creating perfect photo opportunities and moments of pure tranquillity.

Moreover, the temples are not just a feast for the eyes but also a treasure trove of stories and legends. The knowledgeable guides can share captivating tales of the monks who once inhabited the caves, the royal patrons who endowed the site, and the ancient texts, including the Mulkirigala inscription, discovered here, which have contributed significantly to understanding Sri Lanka’s historical narrative. These stories enrich your experience, making the visit not just a sightseeing tour but an educational journey into the heart of Sri Lankan heritage.

The Mulkirigala Rock Temples also offer an excellent opportunity for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to the top, while moderately challenging, is incredibly rewarding, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is unmatched. This combination of physical activity with cultural exploration makes it a unique and fulfilling experience for travellers of all ages and interests.

Where to stay

Woodapple House is an impressive modern property for six, complete with a twenty-metre pool, ocean views and direct beach access. Surrounded by palm trees, this villa feels like a tropical hideaway and is just a forty minute drive away.

2. Handunugoda Tea Estate

The Handunugoda Tea Estate is an enchanting day out that offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage. Nestled in the serene hills of Ahangama, this family-owned estate seamlessly combines tradition with modernity, providing an unforgettable experience for tea enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. One of the estate’s most captivating aspects is its production of the world-renowned Virgin White Tea, a rare and exquisite variety that is handpicked under stringent conditions to ensure its purity and quality. Visitors are treated to a comprehensive tour that delves into the intricate process of tea cultivation, from the tender plucking of the leaves to the meticulous art of processing and packaging.

Beyond the fascinating tea production, the estate’s landscape is a visual delight, offering breathtaking views of verdant plantations scattered with tropical flora and fauna. The guided tours are led by knowledgeable and passionate staff who share intriguing insights and anecdotes, making the experience both educational and engaging. Guests have the opportunity to witness traditional tea-making techniques that have been passed down through generations, providing a rare connection to Sri Lanka's cultural and agricultural heritage.

In addition, the Handunugoda Tea Estate boasts a charming museum that showcases vintage machinery and historical artefacts, painting a vivid picture of the evolution of tea production over the centuries. After the tour, guests are invited to enjoy a delightful tea-tasting session, where they can enjoy a variety of exquisite teas accompanied by delectable local snacks. The estate also features a quaint boutique offering an array of premium teas and souvenirs, allowing visitors to take a piece of this enchanting experience home with them.

Whether you are a tea connoisseur or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Handunugoda Tea Estate promises an enriching and delightful adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Where to stay 

Majestic Palm Grove is a beautifully restored colonial style villa within walking distance of the quiet fishing village of Ahangama, as well as a lovely, sheltered cove. Even better, the Handunugoda Tea Estate is roughly a fifteen minute drive away.

3. Snorkel in the Polhena reef 

Polhena Beach, nestled along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is known for its serene waters and vibrant marine life. This enchanting beach is celebrated for hosting an array of turtles. The reef here is home to more than fifteen green turtles, creating a unique and thriving marine ecosystem. What makes these turtles particularly special is their friendly demeanour. Visitors often have the delightful experience of these majestic creatures approaching them, sometimes even playfully requesting a seagrass snack, adding a whimsical touch to the encounter.

Unlike many other turtle habitats where these graceful swimmers tend to migrate, the turtles of Polhena are year-round residents, making it an extraordinary site for turtle enthusiasts. This consistent presence provides a guarantee of turtle sightings, making snorkelling in Polhena a beloved activity among both locals and tourists.

One of the primary attractions of Polhena Beach is its naturally formed, wave-protected pool created by the surrounding reef. This natural barrier makes the waters exceptionally calm and safe, offering ideal conditions for snorkelling. The shallow depth of the reef, ranging from three to six feet, is perfect for both adults and children, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families to explore the underwater world.

Polhena's reef was heavily impacted by the 2004 tsunami, but efforts to restore and protect this vital ecosystem are ongoing. Various organisations have implemented reef restoration methods and structures, making Polhena a fascinating destination for those interested in marine conservation. Snorkelers have the opportunity to witness these efforts firsthand, exploring different types of reef structures and nurseries designed to provide safe havens for young corals to grow. These structures also create hiding spots for various marine creatures, offering a glimpse into the intricate relationships within this underwater community.

As you snorkel through Polhena's clear waters, you'll encounter a diverse array of marine life. From endearing pufferfish and inquisitive lobsters to elusive octopuses, the reef is teeming with vibrant sea life, making each snorkelling adventure a new and exciting experience. 

Where to stay

Set close to three incredible surfing beaches in Ahangama, Sri Lanka, Pearl is a stylish six bedroom villa with beautiful interior furnishings and cook service included. Enjoy a handful of beaches at your fingertips, but if you are interested in the ethical snorkelling with turtles in Polhena, this is a forty minute drive away from the villa.

4. Explore wildlife of the Walawe River

Originating from the towering heights of Adam's Peak, the Walawe River meanders through Sri Lanka's majestic landscapes, flowing through the dry zone and eventually meeting the sea. This journey offers an unparalleled glimpse into the country's natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to connect with the serene environment of Sri Lanka.

This boat ride is popular among both locals and tourists for good reason. As you glide along the tranquil waters, you'll be surrounded by a lush, diverse ecosystem. The riverbanks are fringed with six varieties of mangroves, creating a dense and intricate habitat that supports a multitude of species. The sight of these tangled, resilient trees is a reminder of nature's adaptability and beauty.

The Walawe River is a veritable playground for wildlife. With 52 fish species swimming beneath the surface, it offers a rich aquatic life that is a joy to observe. Above the water, the air is filled with the calls and colours of 72 bird species. From the delicate flutter of kingfishers to the commanding presence of eagles, birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise. The river's edge is lined with 38 plant varieties, each contributing to the vibrant mosaic of the ecosystem. It's not uncommon to spot animals like monitor lizards and monkeys as you journey through this verdant landscape, adding an element of excitement to the serene surroundings.

One of the most unique aspects of the Walawe River is the trees that line its banks, which serve as a communal roost for bats and cranes. These fascinating creatures take turns inhabiting the trees, creating a dynamic and ever-changing scene that captivates and intrigues. Watching these animals in their natural habitat offers a profound sense of connection to the rhythms of the natural world.

Where to stay

Set on a former coconut and cashew nut plantation and hidden from view, Peacock Cottage is a perfect spot for complete relaxation. This villa is in a great spot if guests want to get away from it all, lulled by the sounds of the Indian Ocean below and the surrounding wildlife. The Walawe river safari is just an hour's drive away.

5. Try a spot of Surfing

Located in one of the most picturesque spots on the island, Kudawella not only offers pristine beaches but also provides an exceptional surfing experience for individuals of all skill levels. 

Kudawella boasts some of the best surfing conditions in the region. The combination of consistent waves, warm water, and incredible coastal scenery creates an ideal environment for surfing. Whether you are a novice looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a new challenge, Kudawella’s diverse wave patterns cater to everyone’s needs. The gentle, rolling waves are perfect for beginners, while more advanced surfers can find exhilarating and larger swells to test their skills.

The surf school also provides top-quality equipment, ensuring that you have access to everything you need for a successful and enjoyable surfing experience. From surfboards and wetsuits to safety gear, Kudawella Surf School has it covered. This means you don’t have to worry about carrying or renting equipment; simply show up ready to learn and have fun.

The Kudawella Surf School is renowned for its exceptional instruction and welcoming atmosphere. The school's experienced and certified instructors are passionate about surfing and dedicated to providing personalised guidance to each student. They tailor their teaching methods to suit individual learning styles and abilities, ensuring that every guest feels confident and safe in the water. 

The physical demands of surfing provide an excellent full-body workout, improving your strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. The mental benefits are equally significant; the rhythmic motion of the ocean and the focus required to ride the waves promote mindfulness and reduce stress levels

In addition to the physical benefits, surfing at Kudawella Surf School offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the local culture. The school emphasises environmental stewardship and encourages guests to respect and appreciate the ocean. Surfing provides a profound sense of freedom and connection to the natural world, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of the surroundings.

Where to stay

Superb Cinnamon House sits at the Ocean’s edge in southern Sri Lanka. This magnificent family house has children’s games, table tennis and a fantastic 15m long pool.Even better, guests can make use of the direct beach access straight down to Kudawella beach.

Our Villa Specialists are happy to book a range of experiences for you. If you're feeling inspired by these experiences and would like to speak with one of our Specialists, make an enquiry or browse our Sri Lanka collection today.