Built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a fascinating man-made wonder that stands 200 meters high. Visitors can explore a palace and admire the well-preserved frescoes on the rock face. The climb to the top can be challenging but worth it for the stunning panoramic views.
A nature lover's paradise, Horton Plains National Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Trek through the park's lush forests and rolling hills to observe unique bird species, deer, and giant squirrels. Don't miss the stunning Baker's Falls and the World's End cliff.
Get your adrenaline pumping with some white water rafting in Kitulgala. This adventure hotspot also offers other activities like canyoning, zip-lining, and waterfall abseiling. Enjoy the rushing rapids and the beautiful scenery of the Kelani River.
Experience the lush tropical rainforest of Sri Lanka with a visit to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Home to unique flora and fauna, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has various hiking trails through the forest. Look out for endemic species like the purple-faced langur and the Sri Lankan blue magpie.
Rated as one of the top ten surf spots in the world, Arugam Bay attracts surfers from around the world. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there are waves for everyone to enjoy. In addition to surfing, visitors can also relax on the stunning beaches and explore the nearby lagoons.
The Yala National Park is the perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts. With its beautiful terrains and numerous safari options, you can see a variety of animals such as elephants, leopards, and bears. Do not forget to pack your binoculars and cameras to capture memorable moments.
End your adventure itinerary with a visit to the Galle Fort. This fortified city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a beautifully preserved example of Dutch architecture. Take a stroll through the streets, admire the colonial buildings and charming shops, and enjoy some delicious seafood in one of the many restaurants nearby.
Getting around Sri Lanka can be done by train, bus or private vehicles. The train ride provides travelers with breath-taking views of the hill country, while buses connect to almost every part of the island. For convenience, hire private vehicles with pre-booked tours. Estimated cost: LKR 25000 for private vehicle rent with driver, travel times vary depending on the distance traveled.
If you have less time, skip Horton Plains National Park and the Galle Fort. Spend an extra day exploring Kitulgala for other adventure sports options. For those interested in culture, visit the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura. If you have more time, consider visiting the tea plantations and the beaches in the south or east coast.
Sri Lanka's main airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located in Katunayake, about 30 km north of Colombo. From CMB, visitors can travel by taxi or train to their destinations. Alternatively, the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) is located approximately 18 km from Hambantota in the south of the island.