White-water rafting – Kithulgala is the place to go to experience the thrill of White-water rafting. With a total of five rapids graded as 2 and 3, even novices are able to enjoy this outdoor activity since extensive physical strength is not required. This adrenaline driven activity is well organized with modern rafts and safety gear being provided at the location.
Even kids over the age of 10 are able to take part in the action.
It would take approximately 2 hours to complete the excursion. The setting is also famous due to it being the prime location for the movie ‘Bridge on River Kwai’.
May-December is considered the best time for White-water rafting.
Abseiling – This is mostly commonly performed with kayaking and white-water rafting. Licensed guides and safety geared is required for abseiling. The stunning views of the roaring waterfalls in Sri Lanka cannot be captured in a better way than abseiling.
Wind surfing and kite surfing – Windsurfing can be a real treat for all those beach lovers. Whilst beginner can make their way from Bentota the more experienced would rather use the east coast beaches. Negombo beach is also renowned for Wind Surfing and is also a destination that allows wind surfing all through out the year.
Kite surfing most commonly performed in Kalpitiya beaches has also been on the list of destinations for water sports addicts. Many resorts now do own kitesurfing schools and gear for wind and kite surfing. The best beaches for Kitesurfing other than Kalptitya would be Mirissa Bay, Aurgam Bay, Kahuna and Kapaladi Lagoon.
Cooking demonstration – Due to the various mouth watering spices gown in Sri Lanka, cooking demonstration has been the highlight for many holidays. Each part of the island offers unique cuisine and hence fails to duplicate this experience throughout the island. From seven course authentic Sri Lankan meals to snacks Sri Lanka has its own way to prepare and present the meals.
Sailing & Cruises – Sailing originating from the fisherman of the island has made a long way. It is also known to be the classical way of enjoying an island at its best. There is no better way to taste the flavors of the turquoise ocean than setting off on a sailing expedition or sunset cruise. The most common sailing beaches are Mirissa , Beruwala , Trincomalee and Pasikudha. Whilst Miriss and Beruwala sets of sails from October to May , Tricomalee and Pasikudha set its sails during the months of June till September. Its hence safe to say that the island in a certain way sets off for sailing all through out the year except for a few months.
Scenic Flights – Even though Sri Lanka is comparatively small in map, it never fails to amaze the clients on how long and tiring some road journeys can be. The scenic flights lately introduced is the perfect remedy for all the last minute and short holidays in Sri Lanka. This domestic flight option gives an eagles view of the highlights of any certain area within a maximum of 60minutes not forgetting to make the best of the time.
Indigenous Tribes – As an island rich of history and heritage it still holds its value for the indigenous tribes of Sri Lanka also known as Vedda/s. For those who would want to learn more about the history, Sri Lanka also gets a unique once-in-a lifetime opportunity to meet and greet the veddas. From a tradition welcome to a dance performance and a refreshment this experience can go for on and on.
Whale Watching – Marine biologists consider Sri Lanka as one of the best places for whale and dolphin watching. With apt weather conditions and water temperatures, these sea creatures don’t forget to greet tourists from time to time.
Blue whales, Sperm whales, spinner dolphins and striped dolphins and if lucky even Orcas and killer whales can be spotted in the waters.
South Coast: Whale and Dolphin watching can be done at Mirissa and Galle in the southern coast during November – April season of which December, January, and March are considered the peak times to witness these magnificent creatures on their migration paths.
East Coast: Trincomalee is the best location to spot Whales and Dolphins on the East Coast so make sure to visit this area during May- October.
West Coast: Whales and Dolphins can be seen in the Kapitiya waters at the West Coast of the Island during the months of March, April and again in November and December.
Destination Weddings – Sri Lanka is truly a picture perfect tropical paradise to get married in. Ranging from a traditional Kandyan wedding amidst misty mountains to a modern beach wedding, you can have it all. You can make a grand appearance on an Elephant or in a limousine. You can tie the knot in a church on a hill top over looking the blue waters or read out your vows at the 100 year old cave.
Visit to a Rural school – Even with a literacy rate of 91%, inequality in education exists in Sri Lanka especially among the estate sectors and other rural areas. Most children cannot afford stationery, shoes or even a decent uniform due to poverty. This is your chance to lend a hand in brightening a child’s future. Visiting these run-down schools will make you realize how privileged you are. You can make a donation to a school or sponsor school supplies for a child without any restrictions.
Trail through the tea plantation – Known as the 4th largest tea producer in the world, you cannot miss having a cup of Ceylonese tea. Being divided as Up-country tea, Mid-country tea and Low-country tea, Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Kandy, Uda Pussellawa, Uva Province and Southern Province are the main regions having wide acres of tea plantations and each area has its own unique flavor.
Three main tea products are the Ceylon Black Tea which is commonly grown in various estates. It has a crisp aroma and is used as both unmixed and blended beverages. The Ceylon Green Tea is mostly grown in the Uva Province and has a stronger flavor. The Ceylon White Tea is of a higher quality and is more expensive than the rest because of its intricate process. It has a more delicate flavour and can be found in Low country plantations.
Shopping – Shopping is one of the top activities to engage in whilst in Sri Lanka where many local products such as Gem and Jewelry, Handloom fabrics and spices are on offer.
Gemstones – Gem stones, Gold, Silver and Platinum jewelry can be purchased from shops in Colombo, Kandy, Ratnapura and Galle which are authorized by the National Gem and Jewelry Authority.
Handloom and Batik Products –Handloom and Batik fabrics ranging from sarees to napkins can be found mainly around Colombo and Kandy.
Handicrafts – Intricate woodworked products are sold around the country mainly in Ambalangoda, Kandy and Polonnaruwa.
Tea and Spices – Make sure to pack up our fine Ceylonese tea ranging from a variety of blends to fragrances and local spices such as Cinnamon and Nutmeg for that extra bit of flavor in your food.
Odel, Dutch Hospital precinct, Laksala, Barefoot, Kandy City Centre and Galle Fort are some of the popular tourist destinations when shopping for authentic Lankan products.
Caving/Spelunking – Despite being a novel concept in Sri Lanka, caving or spelunking has grown to be a popular recreational activity where Waulpane limestone caves and Ravana caves are two of the most famous locations in the country for all the caving enthusiasts. Many caves are over 500 million years old rich with scientific history making them perfect exploration sites.
Safaris – Yala, Wasgamuwa, Udawalawe, Bundala, Minneriya and Wilpattu are some of the main National wildlife parks best to go on safaris. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. A Guide will accompany you on the safari and it is important that you follow his advice when in the jungle. Elephants, peacocks, bears, leopards and deer are some of the animals that can be spotted in these parks.
Outdoor activities – Sri Lanka is much renowned for outdoor games
The Victoria Golf and Country Resort, Nuwara Eliya Golf club and the Royal Colombo Golf club are the three first-rate 18 hole courses here, scenic and of exceptional quality. However, you will not be surprised to find few more golf courses around the island catering the golfers. Renting of golf tools is also an option for last minute planners
Once down in Sri Lanka the mostly commonly witnessed outdoor activity is cricket. One can join the locals for a game or witness national cricket matches played on the larger stadium grounds.
Nightlife – Colombo is the main destination to experience nightlife in Sri Lanka. With a range of clubs, pubs, beach parties and music festivals, this is the hub to have some fun after dark. Apart from Colombo, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa and Negombo also host beach parties that are known to be some of the best attractions to dance to great music and enjoy good food and drinks.
However do note that bars, clubs and pubs don’t operate on Poya days since it is a religious Buddhist holiday.
Meditation & Yoga – Meditation or ‘Bhavana’ is a form of attaining calmness and a better state of mind. In Buddhism there are two types of meditation known as
Kanduboda Meditation Centre, Nilambe Meditation Centre and Dhamma Kuta are some of the well-known meditation Centers in the country that will help you achieve relaxation and a healthy mind and body.
Kayaking – This is a thrilling sport enjoyed by all adventure lovers who don’t mind getting a little wet. Sri Lanka offers kayaking mainly in Kithulgala for the white-water rapids and on many coastal areas such as Arugambay and Trincomalee.
Hot Air Balloons – For all the adventure lovers wanting to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka from above, the hot air balloon awaits you. Thousands of feet up in the sky, gazing down at the serene landscape is an experience that should not be missed. The journey begins around 7am and lasts for approximately 1 hour depending on the package you select.
Hill country train ride – Exploring beauty of Sri Lanka from the ground is worth your time and can be done by hopping on a train going uphill towards the mountainous country side. Passing through tunnels, gushing waterfalls and misty mountains, plenty of sightseeing can be done with comfort onboard a luxury train to areas like Kandy, Badulla, Haputale, Hatton and much more.
Hiking and Trekking – Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Riverston and Sinharaja Rain Forest are few of the famous hiking and trekking destinations in the country. Making way through tea plantations and paddy fields and waterfalls, witnessing the rising and setting of the sun amidst the mountains this is a splendid way to enjoy your vacation in Sri Lanka.
Understanding Local life – Visiting a village in Sri Lanka is a different experience in itself which will be an ideal getaway from the busy city life. Even though poverty is apparent life is very simple in these rural areas and you will surely be greeted with a warm smile from every villager.
Elephant safari – Minneriya, Kaudulla, Dambulla, Habarana are some of the areas that are home to herds of wild Elephants whilst Habarana and Pinnawala have sanctuaries that is home to many tame elephants that allow you to enjoy a short ride on top of these majestic creatures. The ride itself is a wonderful experience and completely safe as these animals are calm in nature and well trained.
Diving and Snorkeling – Surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka makes a perfect island to go snorkeling and diving. Experienced PADI and UDI instructors will guide you through this marvelous experience.
Southern Coast – Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna are two of the best diving spots down south with coral reefs and ship wrecks waiting to be explored during November – May.
East coast – Trincomalee is best for both snorkeling and diving during the months of May – October.
West coast – February – April is when Kalpitiya waters give you a great underwater experience.
Camping – If you are a nature lover then camping is a must-do when you visit Sri Lanka. The country has many camping sites near mountains and rivers, amidst thick jungles and wildlife parks giving you a great outdoor experience. Make sure to pack up appropriate camping gear according to the location and climate with the help of your tour guide.
Bird Watching – Sri Lanka is a paradise when it comes to bird watching due to the large variety of birds both resident and endemic seen throughout the year. Sinharaja rainforest, Kumana National park, Horton Plains and Muthurajawela are some of these destinations ranging from lowlands to mountains and riversides to dry plains and lush forests.
Ayurveda Treatments – Indulge in herbal massages, baths, holistic healing and more with Sri Lanka’s finest Ayurveda treatments made to relax your mind and body. Carried on for many centuries, this form of healing is done by experienced physicians and massage therapists using pure herbs and spices. Most hotels offer a variety of treatments as well as in established spas around Colombo.
With Smart Planners you only need to start packing up your bags and hopping on that plane to enjoy a memorable fun filled holiday in Sri Lanka, as your entire trip will be taken care of just the way you want it to be.
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