10 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka – Inspired by Nature

A tour of Sri Lanka is best started with a stint at the beach; located towards the south of the country, Unawatuna offers visitors the opportunity to swim, sun bathe and explore coral reefs. The Rumassala hillock has an astounding history and promises awe inspiring views of the Indian Ocean.

Among one of the very few blow holes in the world; Hummanaya is located on the coast of Matara. A modest pathway leads you to the blow hole and if you are there on a good day you will hear the resounding whoosh as you approach. One must always obey the signs placed there and avoid going too close to the blow hole.

The coveted elephants of Sri Lanka roam freely in this sanctuary alongside a handful of tigers, dozens of peacocks, several deer and other fauna. The sanctuary features in many Sri Lanka holiday tour packages as wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and almost everyone enjoys seeing jungle creatures up close.

When you book your tour through SoulTrek Sri Lanka you will be advised to have a guide with you as you roam around. Especially in far off places like Arugam Bay, it would be useful to have a knowledgeable local who can arrange a surfing stint and boat rides for you. Within twenty to thirty minutes of the Arugam Bay town there are numerous surf breaks which are suitable for all types of surfers. Don’t be surprised when you see a small tuk tuk racing away down the road with a surf board strapped on to its hood; there are plenty of surfing enthusiasts roaming around that town.

People who see the sun rise from behind the Ella Rock say that the rock is reddish orange, those who see the rock as night falls, claim that it has a hue of purple. Treat your eyes to the gorgeous mountainous terrain, take a train ride over the nine arches bridge and visit Ravana’s Cave while you stop over in this small city within the Badulla District.

Every student of Sri Lanka has read volumes of literature and poetry inspired by these two waterfalls. Though they are not the tallest falls of the country, they are certainly among the most beautiful. Get ready for a splash in the purest and coolest waters you will come across.

It is believed that Buddha’s footprint is found at the summit of this mountain while some feel it could be Adam’s. Therefore, it is usually ascended by devotees, but there is a strong following of inquisitive tourists who faithfully make their way up through the night in order to be at the peak as dawn breaks.

Located within the Horton Plain’s national park, World’s End receives its name due to the spine tingling drop of 4,000 feet at the end of the cliff. Those who trek through Horton Plains always yearn to return as the hike is as enjoyable as the views. It is important to visit on a clear day as a foggy day would not offer more than a few yards of visibility.

There is evidence to indicate that Buddha visited Kelaniya over two thousand years ago; thus making this temple one of the most revered places of worship in the country. Avoid full moon poya days as there would be extremely large crowds. Visit on a weekday morning to meditate and revel in the calm environs.

Negombo is the busiest touristic township that is located closest to the international airport. It is blessed with both a lagoon and a beach; visitors enjoy both. The chic eateries on the beach, the late night parties and the sea baths draw crowds everyday.