Fritzjames Stephen
Sri Lanka is a holidaymaker's dream come true. So this is why it is important for you to try out everything from hiking to playing a few rounds of golf to even diving down to the depths of the ocean.
One of the best dive spots in the southern coast of Sri LankaHikkaduwa is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. November through May is the best time for diving with no less than twenty dive sites within easy reach. You also find PADI dive centres and if you stay long enough can easily get your license before departing. The two most popular spots in Hikkaduwa are a deep rocky formation called Deep Rock Kiralagala and shipwreck Conch.
The best time for diving off Kalpitiya is through Fenruary to April. For keen scuba divers and snorkelers is the largest coral reef in Sri Lanka 'Bar Reef' which is only an hour's ride from Kalpitiya. This beautiful reef is home to an incredible variety of tropical fish as well as offering sighting of manta rays, reef sharks and the occasional turtle! Diving and Snorkelling are not possible during the southwest monsoon period, which is from May to November.
This village on the southern coast of the country is known for the superb beach and historical Buddhist shrine on the rocks. However, it is best known as a base from which to experience some excellent diving at the famous 'Great Basses' wreck and the Great and Little Basses reefs located on the southeast of Kirinda. Sir Arthur C Clarke used Kirinda as the base for his diving exploration, which he did in ororder to research for his book 'The Treasure of the Reef'.
Located approximately 30km east of Galle, Weligama is a fishing town which is an ideal base for snorkeling and diving. The dive sites include Mirissa Point, Bridge Rock, Yala Rock, and Prince Heinrich Patch. There is also a 40 km long reef known as the Basses starting 20 km south east of Kirinda and extending right below Kumana. To explore variety of dolphins and sharks you can go further to the deeper waters.
When you travel Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is one of the top eco tourism spots to visit. April through October is the best time to dive here. There are several dive sites here including Swami Rock, Eel Rock, Sitanampara, Coffin Ray Point and Pigeon Rock to name a few. Numerous species of marine life including Sting Rays, Moray Eels can be spotted here. Snorkelling around the well-known Pigeon island just off Nilaweli beachis considered as a 'must do' activity during a stay in Trincomalee.
Diving is best here from December to April. Diving sites are divided into two sections in Negombo – closer dive sites which are within about 8kms from the shore and the further site - also known as the 'Third Reef' which is about 22 kms from the shore. Numerous species of fish, marine turtles, Moray Eels, sting rays can be spotted.
Another top tourism hotspot in the Southern stretch of Sri Lanka, the best tie to dive here is from November through May. A large dive site Canoe Rock with myriad of beautiful coral and exotic fish can be found here.
November to May is the best time to dive off the shores of Beruwala. About half an hour away from the shore are two diving sites Shark Point and Baracuda Rock. The currents can be strong here so amateurs need to be prepared. With the assistance of top travel companies such as Aitken Spence Travels visitors are able to find the best tourism solutions.
