Joanna James
So, you keep hearing that Sri Lanka's "South Coast" is excellent, a "must visit," and that it would be a "highlight of your vacation," so you already know that perhaps the beaches are meant to be stunning, wonderful, and well, everything you could wish for in a beach.
Explore a lovely combination of a national park and a reservation home to leopards, peacocks, elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, spotted dear, jackals, sambars, and other rare birds on a Wildlife Safari. The best time to go is between February and July. Taru Villas – Yala is an ideal base for exploring Yala National Park, as well as Udawalawe and Bundala National Parks.
Mulkirigala, near Tangalle, is regarded as one of the best ancient monuments in the South. It consists of exquisitely adorned ancient cave temples built into the flanks of a massive rock protrusion. The temples were constructed on four distinct levels over the course of history, beginning in the third century B.C. Each tier is connected by about 500 steps, with breathtaking views from the summit.
Kataragama is one of the most sacred spots on the island to both Buddhists and Hindus; pilgrims go here all year to pray at the shrine of the god Kataragama. The temples come alive at night when devotees arrive with trays of gifts to the god, and you can hear the noise of conch shells being played and the thumping of many drums.
Mirissa is an excellent location for viewing the world's largest mammal. Whale and dolphin watching became one of the top things to do in the south, and there are several operators in the area that offer journeys to the Indian Ocean to view dolphins, whales, and turtles. From December to March is the greatest time to visit.
This is one of the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy sites in the South. It is located at the end of Mirissa Beach and is totally surrounded by coconut trees that overlook the ocean. Additionally, if you are looking for things to do in Bentota there are plenty of accommodations that can put you in close proximity to some great activities such as the Saman Villas.
If you're travelling with friends or family and looking for something a little more adventurous but not too far from the beach, the jungle playground is a must-see. It is a unique jungle trail designed and maintained by a European couple, featuring a variety of difficulties to encounter such as jungle bowling, climbing, and mini-golf!
Hikkaduwa is a vibrant town with lovely beaches, tranquil diving places, and even some excellent surfing! After perusing the various souvenir and curio shops that line the strip, dine at contemporary eateries serving fresh seafood or innovative fusion cuisine.
Hikkaduwa has some great diving spots for both novice and experienced divers. There are a few PADI dive schools and tour companies to select from, and adventurers as young as 8 years old can be trained. Enjoy free diving, swimming with huge sea turtles, or exploring any of ten shipwrecks at varying depths.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
