Main attractions in Southern Sri Lanka

GALLE

Galle is one of the most visited cities in Sri Lanka, and a perfect excursion during beach stay. Explore the narrow winding streets of the Dutch Fort which protects the churches, mosques, homes, quaint hotels restaurants and shops within its ancient walls. Built in the 17th century the Fort is Sri Lanka’s best existing colonial structure and has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. The Fort is also a place where people come to appreciate art and to visit quality museums like the National Maritime Museum.

To see a good sample of Sri Lankan flora, visit the Kottawa Conservation Forest, about a 30 minute drive from Galle.

UNAWATUNA

Unawatuna is probably the most famous beach in Southern Sri Lanka. It has a lively tourist scene but maintains its charm with stylish guesthouses and boutique hotels. Unawatuna is the perfect place to go snorkeling and take a day trip to Galle.

For a change of pace, visit the nearby, wild and untamed Dalawella and Thalpe beaches.

Check our blog article about Unawatuna

WELIGAMA

About 30 Km from Unawatuna, you will find Weligama, a fishing village where you can see the famous stilt fishermen. Pass the island of Taprobane which is only large enough for one villa (a luxury retreat that accepts advanced bookings) and accessible on foot during low tide. Nearby, Midigama Beach will delight surfers looking for good waves. Midigama is considered the best surf spot in the entire south-western coast of the island and is a very popular with experienced surfers.

MIRISSA

The tranquil beaches of Mirissa with its rural village atmosphere has gained popularity. Enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants and bars scattered on its famous crescent of golden sand.

Blue Whale watching is the main activity in Mirissa. Southern Sri Lanka is one of the best places in Asia to cross paths with these majestic mammals which are often spotted between November and April. Sea kayaking and snorkeling are two more activities to round off your beach vacation.

TANGALLE

Tangalle is one of the last remaining unaltered beaches. During your stay, you may see turtles on Rekawa Beach, located 4km east of Tangalle. You can observe the females lay their eggs on the sand during the night. Visit the temple of Mulkirigala, a former monastery built over 2000 years ago and situated on a high rock of 210 meters.

NATIONAL PARKS IN SOUTHERN SRI LANKA

• Yala National Park

Yala is probably the most touristy national park in Sri Lanka. It can get really crowded during the high season (December-February). Its popularity is highly justified by the number of animal species that can be observed in there, from over 200 bird species, elephants, monkeys, sloth bears, crocodiles and buffaloes. The main reason to choose Yala over other national parks in Sri Lanka is the possibility of spotting leopards.

• Bundala bird sanctuary

Bundala is a perfect place to get lost in a lagoon in search of birds, elephants, crocodiles or turtles. From September to March, you can observe migratory birds arriving from Europe such as piping plovers or sterns. The park also has about 350 flamingos that live there throughout the year.

• Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is arguably the best place in Sri Lanka to watch dozens of elephants walking freely in their natural habitat. You will never be disappointed with elephant watching here, and you'll get to see other animals like buffaloes, peacocks and crocodiles.

• Sinharaja rainforest

The Sinharaja Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its endemic flora and fauna. This is the last meaningful piece of rainforest on the island. Bird lovers will be delighted because 95% of the endemic bird species of Sri Lanka live in this forest.