This bustling, fishing town on the west coast of Sri Lanka (and close to the Bandaranaika International Airport), had a rather turbulent colonial history involving the Dutch, Portuguese and British due to the cinnamon trade. In fact, the wild cinnamon that grew in the region was described as ‘the very best in the universe as well as the most abundant’. The remnants of this colonial period remain with the strong Catholic Church influence in the town. The Negombo Lagoon and the many canals offer superb birdwatching, the town’s Old Quarter is worth a visit, and the community is friendly and welcoming.
Nochchiyagama is a tiny settlement in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, surrounded by vast, breathtaking natural landscapes of forests and plains. Travellers seeking an escape from the stress of modern city life can find solitude and tranquillity here, in this small community. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find the town a fantastic base to explore the wild, untamed local area - with Wilpattu National Park resting within easy reach. Visitors interested in history, culture or religion should make sure to visit the nearby Katubulgama Buddhist temple. Nochchiyagama serves as a wonderful base from which travellers can explore.
Set in eastern Sri Lanka around the islands largest reservoir, Senanayake Samudraya, Gal Oya National Park is an important catchment area. Wild, secluded and surprisingly quiet, this is the only park in Sri Lanka where it is possible to take a boat safari, allowing close-up encounters with swimming elephants. Traditional jeep safaris and a wide range of walking trails are also on offer. Explore the lush forest, shrub, grassland and magnificent mountains, and spot up to 32 species of mammals including wild boar, sloth bears, water buffalo, axis deer, and even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Gain unique and specialised insight into the area by taking a guided hike with the indigenous Veddha people who live here. Visitors will also delight in the spectacular, brightly coloured birdlife, and the ample luxury facilities (including a pool) at the park’s lodge.
Situated about 165 kilometres from Colombo, the Udawalawe National Park has become a popular tourist destination and the third most visited game park in Sri Lanka. It was originally built to provide a sanctuary for the wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir in 1972 on the Walawe River. It covers nearly 30 000 hectares, and is home to herds of Sri Lankan elephants, water buffalo, monitor lizards, sambar deer, leopards and indigenous water birds. Open-top safaris led by experienced guides through the savannah-type landscape are the ideal way to view the wildlife, with most visitors being assured of enjoying a special treat of viewing young and adult elephants at the water holes.
Yala, Sri Lanka, is a picturesque region located in the southeast corner of the island nation. This beautiful area boasts stunning landscapes, majestic wildlife, and extraordinary cultural attractions. One of the must-visit destinations in Yala is Buduruwagala, a fascinating complex of ancient Buddhist rock carvings that date back to the 8th century. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and impressive size of the sculptures, which include a towering 51-foot-high image of the Buddha. For nature lovers, Yala National Park is the island's undisputed centrepiece, with a leopard density that's reportedly higher than anywhere else on this planet and a varied landscape from dense forests to moist wetlands. For the spiritually inclined, Kebiliththa in Block 4 of the Yala National Park is a place considered highly sacred by Buddhists and Hindus alike, who flock here to meditate.
Colombo, a commercial and tourist hub on the west coast of Sri Lanka. The vibrant canal city boasts golden beaches and a photogenic promenade, gorgeous temples, and chic restaurants among impressive skyscrapers. Must-see attractions include the grand and atmospheric Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple, and Hindu Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil, known for its exquisite interiors. A historic Dutch quarter beckons to be explored - the Dutch Hospital and Dutch Period museum are quite fascinating, and the artisan colonnaded craft stores lend a special air to the area. Nature lovers will enjoy walking through the beautiful Talangama Wetland which fringes the city or taking a short break from the city bustle in the Viharamahadevi Park, known for its delightful flowering trees and local snake charmers.
