Negombo is a lively coastal town on Sri Lanka's west coast, located just north of Colombo and within easy reach of the country's main international airport. Best known as a traditional fishing hub, it combines colonial heritage, bustling local life and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for the start or end of a Sri Lankan holiday. Visitors can explore the vibrant fish market, cruise the historic Dutch Canal and nearby lagoons, or discover centuries-old churches that reflect the town's multicultural history. Fresh seafood restaurants, beachfront cafés, and activities such as boat trips and kitesurfing add to Negombo's appeal, while its long sandy beach and colourful sunsets provide an enjoyable setting for unwinding.
Located on the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, along its stunning west coast, the off-the-beaten-track Wilpattu National Park is set close to the historical city of Anuradhapura. Dubbed the ‘Land of Lakes’, the park’s main feature is the many natural lakes, of which the park is named, that dot the northwest coast. Nature lovers will delight in the unspoilt wilderness, where eagle-eyed visitors can look forward to catching a glimpse of the local wildlife. Discover the area’s history and find the ancient ruins in the park, venture through the thick untouched jungle for a true wilderness safari experience and soak up the scenic landscapes blanketed in scrublands, wetlands and thick jungle. Commonly spotted species include: leopard, elephant, mongoose, sloth bear and a variety of wetland bird species such as egret, whistling teal, spoonbill, white Ibis, and many more.
Situated towards the centre of the island of Sri Lanka, northeast of Dambulla, Habarana is the gateway to many of the region’s top attractions. The central highlight of the town is the beautiful Habarana Lake, around which bananas grow and elephants wander and bathe. Wildlife enthusiasts flock to the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks which are well populated with elephants and other wildlife. For those looking to take in some Sri Lankan culture, the sacred city of Anuradhapura, cave temples in Dambulla, and the UNESCO world heritage site of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress are all accessible from Habarana. A short 30 minute drive will take visitors to the magnificent Golden Buddha in Dambulla. The temple is built inside a hill, and contains five rooms filled with countless exquisite Buddha statues.
Set amidst the rolling green hills of Sri Lanka's central highlands, Kandy is a historic and culturally vibrant city with a distinctive blend of royal heritage, spiritual significance and natural beauty. As the island's former royal capital, it offers a fascinating insight into Sri Lanka's traditions and history. At its heart lies the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Visitors can stroll around scenic Kandy Lake, explore colourful, bustling markets, discover the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens at nearby Peradeniya, or experience traditional Kandyan dance and drumming performances. The surrounding hills, lush landscapes and nearby tea-growing regions add to its appeal, making Kandy an engaging destination for cultural discovery, scenic exploration and an authentic taste of Sri Lankan life.
Located in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque hill town known as ‘Little England’ for its colonial-era architecture, manicured gardens and cool mountain climate. Surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations and cascading waterfalls, it offers a refreshing retreat from the island’s warmer lowlands. Visitors can tour tea estates and factories to learn about the production of Ceylon tea, or follow scenic trails to Lover’s Leap Waterfall, which overlooks the surrounding countryside. Hakgala Botanical Gardens is another highlight, with its colourful rose beds, orchids and towering trees set against a mountainous backdrop. In the town, Lake Gregory provides opportunities for leisurely walks and boating, while the nearby Seetha Amman Temple offers a glimpse into Hindu traditions associated with the Ramayana. Nature lovers can also explore Galway’s Land National Park, known for its forest habitats and birdlife.
Galle sits on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, around two hours from Colombo, where the Indian Ocean meets a city shaped by centuries of maritime trade. It is a historic coastal town best known for the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a walled old town built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch. Travellers are drawn by cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings, boutique shops, galleries, and cafés, all overlooking the sea. Beyond the fort, palm-fringed beaches and coral reefs offer swimming, snorkelling, and sunset walks, while nearby tea plantations and wildlife reserves add depth to day trips. Galle appeals to visitors seeking a blend of history, culture, and relaxed coastal living, balanced by gentle exploration rather than fast-paced sightseeing.
