Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
Sri lanka is a small island in the Indian ocean of 65,000 square kilometers. Despite being so small the country has a wide range of geographic features and is rich in natural beauty.

Large parts of Sri Lanka is covered in tropical forests, with hundreds of rivers flowing through them, often cascading in awesome waterfalls.

Climate

The southern and western regions have only two seasons, wet and wetter. Despite being a tropical island some parts of the country can almost be mistaken for deserts. Other regions experience rainy and dry seasons. The dry zone looks really wonderful just as the rains start to ease.

People

Most of the The country's 18.5 million population speak Sinhala, Tamil or English. Sinhala is the most widely spoken language and the Sinhala people make up the largest ethnic group. Interestingly this language is not spoken anywhere else in the world, other than by a few traders in Chennai India!.

A good twenty percent of the population lives in the westen province which is the home of capital
colombo. (Strictly speaking Sri Jayawardanapura is the political capital of Sri Lanka and Colombo the Commercial center. But Sri Jayawardanapura is a miniature city within Colombo).

Business and Economy

The economy though battered and bruised by decades of mismanagement is finally showing signs of recovery. Each new government seems to manage the economy worse than the previous one. Thankfully the trend seems to have been changed the last time around.

Location

But you are probably starting to wonder where's this place anyway?.
Why not make a guess try out the Geography Quizzed see if you can click on Sri Lanka on the world map.

Wild Parks & Wild Life

Wild Parks & Wild Life

The jungles of Sri Lanka abound in a variety of wildlife,which is surprising for an island of its size in the tropics.From ancient days the elephants and peacock from the Sri Lankan jungles were prize exports to the Kingdoms of East and West.But apart from these well known examples of the fauna, a visit to the Sri Lankan jungles is to enter a whole new world where nature has largely stayed still.There are four majour national parks.Sri Lanka has a rich and exotic variety of wildlife and a long tradition of conservation rooted in its 2,230 year old Buddhist civilisation. The following are the most important sanctuaries in terms of attractions, accessibility and availability of facilities. Animal Sanctuaries The animals to be seen in Sri Lanka's national parks.

A visit to the Sri Lankan jungles is to enter a whole new world where nature has largely stayed still. Approximately 14% of this small island is dedicated to sanctuaries and nature reserves.The animals to be seen in Sri Lanka's national parks include elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sandbur, deer and monkeys, wild buffalo, wild boar (pig), porcupine, ant-eater, civet cat, jackal, mongoose, Loris (unique to Sri Lanka) several varieties of lizards, squirrels, reptiles and amphibians. Each park however has its own specialties.

Yala National Park

Yala is the more popular and well-established wild life park in Sri Lanka. It is situated 309 km south of Colombo and approximately 129,700 hectares in extent. This Park consists of thorny scrub forest somewhat similar to the African bush, which provides visitors good visibility. The vegetation ranges from open parkland to dense jungle. Yala abounds with elephants besides the other varieties of animals such as sloth bears, leopards, buffaloes, wild boar, deer, samba and large crocodiles too, which are relatively common.

Wilpattu National Park

Situated 176 km. north of Colombo, Wilpattu is approximately 1,908 sq.km. in extent. It has a dense jungle cover which makes it a more exciting park where animals have to be tracked. There are numerous delightful little lakes - known as villus - and the leopard and sloth bear are the specialty rather than elephants

Wasgamuwa National Park

Situated approximately 200 km. away from Colombo.The Wasgamuwa National Park lies within the Polonnaruwa and Matale Districts and have the Mahaweli river and Amban river as its eastern and western boundaries.Tropical intermediate dry mixed evergreen forest predominates its environment, which is 37,000 hectares in extent. This Tropical intermediate dry mixed evergreen forest predominates its environment with many varieties of animals like wild elephant, deer, sloth bear, monkey, wild boar and crocodile.

Uda Walawe National Park

Uda Walawe National Park is situated 170 Km South East of Colombo.This National Park is approximately 30,821 hectares in extent. This Park comprises grasslands and thorn scrubs and many valuable species of trees are found within it. Elephants and Deer species such as spotted Deer, Sambhur, Barking deer and Langur, Wild Boar, Water Buffalo, Jackal are some of the prominent wild animals found in this Park. This park is home for nearly 400 wild elephants.

Horton Plains National Park

Situated approximately 200 km. away from Colombo.The only National Park situated in the Hill Country and falls within the Nuwara Eliya district . Panoramic scenic beauty of the Hill Country could be witnessed within the Park. The famous `Worlds End' is a major attraction within the Park. Endemic slender loris and endemic purple monkey are among the important animal species, sambhur, a member of the cat family , some endemic fauna also found within this Park.In addition there are lot of Sri Lankan Stags there and they are more friendly than other places. In horton plains there is an amazing place, the "World's End".

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is 260 km. away from Colombo and 6300 hectares in extent. All species of water birds resident in the country and the migrant birds inhabit this Park. This has five large brackish water lagoons, which make this place to be a home for the migratory birds that flock to these wetlands during the winter months.

Lahugala National Park

About 16km (10 miles) west of Pottuvil, Lahugala was designated as a national park mainly to provide a protected corridor for elephant groups moving between the larger reserves of Ruhuna (Yala), to the south, and Gal Oya, to the north. In the dry season this small park is reputed to have more elephants than any other part of the country, attracted by the grazing around the reservoirs within the park

Gal Oya National Park

Situated approximately 314km. away from Colombo.Situated at Inginiyagala, the Gal Oya National Park is most renowned for its elephant population.

Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park approximately 8900 hectares in extent is in the Central North region of the country. This is one of the newest parks in Sri Lanka with a resident wild elephant population of nearly 200. Forest with high canopy provides an ideal habitat conditions for purple-faced leaf monkey and toque monkey. Minneriya is also a paradise for samba and spotted deer. The surrounding wetlands is inhabited by a large number of aquatic bird species and it is not too rare a scene to view 2000 little cormorants diving into the waters of the Minneriya reservoir.

The Maduru Oya National Park

The Maduru Oya National Park is located in the Dry Zone and is 300 k.m. away from Colombo and 58,849 hectares in extent. A wide variety of wildlife including some endemic birds species and reptiles are found here. Maduru Oya is rich in ancient ruins found in different places and its southern parts provide veddhas, indigenous people their living environment. Endemic purple monkey is among the important animal species that can be seen in addition to Sambhur, a member of the cat family etc. There is some endemic avifauna also found within this Park

Kumana National Park

Located in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka, the 18,149 hectare Kumana National Park (a.k.a. 'Yala East') is a well-known bird sanctuary where a multitude of birds breed and roost. One of the most significant features of the park is the 'Kumana Villu' - a 200 hectare natural swamp lake, fed by the 'Kumbukkan Oya' through a half mile long narrow channel. It is at this mangrove swamp that many water birds nest in May and June. Regular sightings include pelicans, painted storks, spoonbills, white ibis, herons, egrets and little cormorants. The very rare black-necked stork has also been spotted at the swamp.

Adventures of Sri Lanka

Adventures

Scuba Diving Adventures

Sri Lankan warm seas house thousands of marine species for the fascination of any scuba diver. The recreational coral reefs around the island range from depth 5-10 meters to 40 meters. Many ancient wrecks, caves and special reef formations will make a diver to experience best of Scuba Diving. The diving centers and training schools are equipped with latest scuba gear and internationally qualified instructors.

White Water Rafting

Sri Lanka has four main rivers and countless tributaries suitable for rafting and kayaking. Three of the biggest rivers are born in the heart of the peak wilderness; the Kalu Ganga, Walawe Ganga and the Kelani River that tumbles through a rocky gorge just above Kitulgala is one that is very popular for rafting.

The Kalu Ganga with grade 4-5 rapids that passes through magnificent jungle scenery as it makes its way to the south coast. The Walawe Ganga is a grade 2 river flowing through Uda Walawe National Park so adventure can be combined with wildlife viewing as this park provides prime elephant viewing.

The Mahaweli is Sri Lanka’s largest river with rapids ranging from level 2-6 along a challenging descent through the hill country to the eastern plains. The river has two dams along its route and offers controlled grade 2 –5 sections as well as fluctuating grade 3-6 tributaries.

Surfing

With a wide range of excellent Surfing locations on both the east and southwest coast (each suitable at different times of year according to the monsoon seasons), Sri Lanka is a year-round surfing destination.

Sri Lanka has been recognised by the international surfing community for some time now, with the east coast's ARUGAMBAY boasting an annual International Surfing Competition. So whether you're an expert or a beginner looking to ride the white stuff for the first time, there's something for everyone!

Wind Surfing

For a real wind-surfer's paradise, head down to Benthota on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka where the exhilaration of cruising across the azure water overlooking the idyllic beach won't fail to disappoint. For beginners of windsurfing, the more tranquil waters of the Bentota river or any of Sri Lanka 's many tanks and lakes offer an ideal training zone before heading out to the challenge of the ocean. North of TRINCOMALEE , in the west coast of Sri Lanka , the sea off Nilaveli beach provides a fantastic east coast alternative for when the Yala monsoon brings strong winds and rough seas to the west. So whatever your level of experience, leave your wetsuit at the door and make the most of what Sri Lanka has to offer this exciting sport.

N.B. If venturing out on the south-west coastline, grab your sail and board between November and April before the monsoon hits. To ensure the best wind and water conditions on the east coast, go from May-October.

Water Sking

Water-Skiing is the ultimate rush on the water's surface! Whether you're a beginner who just wants to get round without too many falls or a well-seasoned water-sports fan, eager to check out slalom courses and jumps in Sri Lanka , you're guaranteed a good time! Full training, on dry land and in the water, is available for both beginners and those more experienced water-skiers who simply want to brush up on their style while on holiday in Sri Lanka . While you're there, why not have a go at jet-skiing and wake-boarding as well, or for maximum fun try bouncing along the water in a gigantic inflatable tyre!

Cycling and Mountain Biking

If you prefer cycling but aren't so keen on struggling with uphill climbs, there are many interesting trails in the lowlands of Sri Lanka that take you through a beautiful landscape of tea, rubber and spice plantations or even the ancient capital of POLONNARUWA . For those seeking more of a challenge, the Sri Lankan hill country locations offer a number of steeper trails that are only suitable for more experienced mountain bikers. Whatever your experience and fitness level, the diversity of Sri Lanka has something for everyone who wants to take part in the exhilarating activity of cycling and mountain biking! We can even arrange trips moving from one location to another (and transporting luggage by a support vehicle) – just let us know what you want to do and we'll help you do it!

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Imagine floating over some of Sri Lanka's dramatically varied landscape ranging from the ancient cities of the Cultural Triangle (such as SIGIRIYA ) to the wonders of the UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK (how else do you get to see the elephants from above?!) Hot Air Ballooning is a relatively new activity to Sri Lanka , but in response to the ongoing search for new and exciting ways of seeing the country, it provides a remarkable experience never to be forgotten. With no two flight paths the same, it really will be a unique journey.

All hot air balloons are manufactured in the UK , where balloon pilots are also trained by instructors licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka . Throughout the flight, an experienced ground crew (following the flight path in a jeep) are in constant communication with the pilot of the balloon, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. So all you need to do is relax, enjoy the peace and quiet and admire the views of Sri Lanka !

Kayaking and Canoeing

With 103 rivers and a wealth of swamps, lagoons and interconnected old canals, Sri Lanka provides no end of opportunities to try out Kayaking / canoeing, which are a different and relaxing mode of transportation. Sri Lanka 's famous KALU GANGA (aka Black River) flows from the heart of the island down to the west coast town of Kalutara where it finally meets the Indian Ocean . During a leisurely canoe trip down this beautiful river, canoeists can marvel at ever-changing landscapes and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna. For an alternative to river canoeing, head to one of the country's many vast tanks and reservoirs! The calm waters of the Samanalawewa reservoir in Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa province (easily accessible from BELIHULOYA ) provide an ideal setting for this slow-paced activity, and with the area's prolific birdlife and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, there's no end of things to see as you paddle.

Whales and Dolphin Watching

Sri Lanka is situated within the International Whaling Commission's protected zone in the Indian Ocean. Of the 80 species of cetaceans observed and identified worldwide, 26 are found in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. Whale and dolphin watching is a seasonal activity in Sri Lanka, available on the west coast in locations from KALPITIYA and along the SOUTH WEST COAST from November to March while the east coast off TRINCOMALEE is preferable from June to September.

We offer both boat and air based expeditions in Sri Lanka . For the boat trips, motorised boats and trawlers enable the guests to travel far out to sea and get to the natural habitats of the whales and dolphins. Air based expeditions are also available by helicopter or sea plane for an incredible aerial view of Sri Lanka.

N.B. As with all nature, we are unable to guarantee sightings of whales and dolphins, although the sites we offer are favoured as their habitats…

HILL COUNTRY

untry of Sri Lanka will surround you with velvety green freshness all around. The hill country in heart of the island, rises from 3000 ft. to over 8000. The approach to it, whether by road, or rail, is a journey through narrow passes, beside deep ravines and over gushing streams.

As you travel, you will sea the vegetation change from tropical profusion to gentle spreading rubber plantations, to cool green hills, the home of Ceylon tea. Tea-pluckers work on the slopes, butterfly-like in their colorful attire, bent and wizened with year of toil.

Just 100 kms north east of Colombo in a valley ringed by protective tall peaks nestles Sri Lanka’s hill capital and most beautiful city. 488 meters above sea level Kandy enjoys a cooler climate to the resorts on the beaches.

The Hill country of Sri Lanka is a sight to behold. After the heat of the low lands of Sri Lanka, the diversity of temperature and scenery of the high lands is incredible, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela, are three popular hill stations of Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya being the highest, situated over 6000 feet above sea level is also called “Little England”. As this is where the British built themselves a home away from home.

The town of Nuwara Eliya sprawls over the fertile valley flanked by Mount Pidurutalagala and Single Tree Mountain and is scattered with Victorian-style 19th century homes, bungalows, guesthouses and hotels complete with gabled roofs, large open fireplaces and hardwood floors. Nuwara Eliya takes pride in its beautiful gardens with neatly-clipped lawns and colourful flower beds. The quaint towns of the southern highlands,often overlooked by the package trade, also hold much charm. Ella Gap offers wonderful views to the south coast on a fine day. Bandarawela, an area known for tea and fruit growing, is at the centre of Uva’s 'Health Triangle'and is a town that Sri Lankans believe has the perfect climate: dry and sunny with fresh and clean air. Haputale, on the far south of the highlands, offers lovely walking with dramatic views. Dickoya is famous for its pristine tea plantations. Close to Hatton is the sacred Adam’s Peak - a 2,234m high holy mountain which is climbed each year from December to April by thousands of devotees from many faiths. The hills are extremely popular for those who enjoy the outdoors and active pursuits. The temperate climes and magnificent views provide for fine walking through tea estates and rural hill country villages. In the Dickoya and Kitulgala region, it is possible to go mountain biking, canoeing and whitewater rafting.

Beaches of Sri Lanka

BEACHES

SUN AND SEA IN SRI LANKA

　 The soft sound of waves lapping in to the beach, endless strips of white sandy beaches contrasting with deep blue waters must be what's on your mind when you plan to travel to a beautiful tropical beach to spend a sunny holiday. Whether to set your spirit of adventure free or just to relax and enjoy the tranquil settings, Sri Lanka is the ideal holiday destination. Sri Lanka is endowed with so many beautiful beaches, many an idyllic setting with swaying palm trees bending over the white sand lapped by blue waves and coral reefs that are home to many types of tropical fish. As you travel along the western, eastern or southern coastline, around every bend you will come upon yet another inviting tropical vista, which testifies Sri Lanka, a tropical island as the best place to holiday.

If you're the active type looking for action, a variety of water sports await you. Snorkeling, windsurfing, angling and sailing are just a few activities if one wants to indulge in water sports. Exploring coral reefs, the beautiful under water flora & fauna is a must when you travel to Sri Lanka. Various types of crustaceans and hydra add to the exquisiteness of a coral reef, which is home to many authentic species. Windsurfing is a popular activity, which brings much fun and tests your competitive skills. Windsurfing races are held mainly on the southeastern coast. Not just water sports, you could socialize with the warm friendly people out there and move to the sunny vibes emitting from this beautiful and tropical culture.

Arugam Bay Beach
Arugam Bay, 3km (2 miles) south of the small fishing village of Pottuvil, had a reputation as a surfer's paradise before the area became unsafe due to incidents in and around Pottuvil and on the roads leading to it. It has long, empty beaches and a wide lagoon which is a haven for numerous bird species.

Nilaveli Beach
14 km. from Trincomalee, Nilaveli was the venue for the 1985 International Fun board Championships and all water sports are available. All water sports are available here including fishing and sea angling. Whale watching in the sanctuary is a specialty.

Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa is one of the earliest tourist beaches of Sri Lanka famous for its sandy beaches and superb waves for surfing. Once a popular coral reefs at Hikkaduwa are now nearly extinct. There are many hotels and guest houses to suit any budget with varying quality and comfort.
98 km south of Colombo, Hikkaduwa is the place for under water delight. Site of the famed coral gardens; hire a glass bottomed boat or goggles and flippers and explore the fantasies under your feet. Do not purchase or encourage sale of corals.
Your itineraries at Hikkaduwa may include hiring a glass bottom boat for coral viewing, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving or simply relaxing in the beach.

Beruwala Beach
5.6 km of South of Colombo, Beruwela marks the beginning of a 130 km. stretch of beaches where resort development has taken immense strides in the past few years. Good bathing may be had in the bay all year round.

Unawatuna Beach
west coast of Sri Lanka, a popular tourist destination is a also a breeding ground for turtles. Legend say that Unwatuna was created from a piece of earth from Himalaya, that had fallen from Hanuman in the Ramayanaya epic.
Unawatuna is about 2km away towards Matara from Galle.
Unlike the other resorts to the north Unawatuna is still a very quite place and a excellent location to enjoy the tropical beauty in relative recluse. Ideal for snorkeling and swimming. There are some coral reefs to be explored at near by Rumassala and now becoming popular as a bird watching location.
Unawatuna offers a wide range of accommodation scattered around near by village, but for more luxurious places are few minutes drive from the beach. The beach side bars and restaurants are in abundance.

Mirissa, Weligama & Ahangama Beaches
Ahangama and Midigama are two stilt fishing locations in the area. The fishermen rest on stilts fixed on shallow water and use rods for fishing. This unique method of fishing is still practiced today.
About 15 kM from Matara towards Galle and 27 km from Galle is a popular resort town of Weligama. Here are many recently built hotels for visitors in search of the sun and sand. The rest house at Weligama is one of the oldest rest houses in Sri Lanka. The Aggrabodhi Vihara about 1 Km from the rest house towards inland is an ancient temple established in the 3 century BC. The temple is mentioned in several ancient literature works in 13th and 14th centuries confirms it's importance, but had been destroyed by the Portuguese and many of the existing buildings are of recent construction.

Batticoloa Beach
Batticoloa is surrounded by a large lagoon, home of the famous ‘singing fish’. Certainly in the months of April and September on moonlit nights, you can hear a musical vibration emanating from the waters. Batticoloa is a quiet little place, with a small but well-preserved Dutch fort.

Bentota Beach
　 South of Beruwala, Bentota is another major beach resort of the island with many large hotels with beach fronts, beautiful sandy beaches and shallow waters.
There is a popular fresh water lagoon which is a popular water racing location.

Waterfalls

The mountains of abound with waterfalls of exquisite beauty. Numbering more than hundred and many of them is virtually unknown, hidden away in forest or approached by steps and remote tea plantation tracks. In fact for it size Sri Lanka has recorded water falls than another country.
Sri Lanka numerous reveres, fed by two half ・yearly monsoons, with topography of high and steeply scarped pen plains, and river beds of hard erosion-resistant metamorphic rock, all provide ideal ingredient for the formation of waterfalls

The island is divided into nine provinces. Of them waterfalls are abundance in the hill region which includes Central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa and parts of Western provinces. The Southern province has several water falls too. Dry zone (North, North-Central, North-Western and Eastern) hardly has any water falls other than the spill of major man made reservoirs.

Ravana Falls

Situated on the Ella -Wellawaya road, this beautiful water fall lies visible from the main road itself. The water rushing down over several steps adds more hues to it’s sublime beauty. The main drop, however, is 30 ft. In height. It derives its name from the mythical king Ravana of the great Indian epic The Ramanya. A perfect place for a stop over.

Diyaluma Falls

On the Poonagala Oya river off the Koslanda- Wellawaya road over a straight rock wall. lies this magnanimous water fall, 559 ft in height. Its distance from Wellawaya town is 13 kms, while that from Koslanda is 6kms. Diyaluma is seen as a soft veil hanging endlessly from the top of a mountain. It is visible from the Balangoda - Wellawaya highway too.

Bopath Falls

Just 15 kms from the Colombo- Ratnapura road, it falls from a height of 100ft into the Kurd gang river. The formation itself is a rare beauty with a perfectly heart shaped head, resembling the leaf of the sacred Bo tree, hence the name Bopath. Also a popular picnic spot, it is bound to take your breath away.

Bambarakanda falls

789 ft in height, Bambarakanda is the tallest water fall of the island- a spectacle that reverberates the glory of nature in its every nuance. However, it throbs with life only during the wet season. The best way to access this marvel of nature is along a minor but mortable road via Haputale and Kalupahana, 22 kms from Balangoda or 32 km from Wellawaya

Dunhinda Waterfall

"Dunhinda" is one of the mostly spoken-about waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Although she couldn't come even close to the highest waterfalls of the planet in height she rivals many of them when it comes to the natural beauty that it bestows on the environment . Situated about 2 km distance from the main road which runs to Taldena from the remote city Badulla in the Uva Province this is easily accesible and frequently visited by local and foreign visitors. On the way can be seen the "Kuda Dunhinda" ( "Kuda" means small in Sinhala ) which is the prologue to its mighty brother . In native tongue "Dun" means mist or vapour which is the ideal explanation for a waterfall creating wreathes of mist on its way down.

Devon Waterfalls

With a peculiar appearance imparted to it by its formation in three continuous cascades this waterfall christened "Devon Falls" pours down to the valley beneath not a long distance away from its brother the "St. Clairs". On the main road opposite to it there is situated a modern tea centre finding its abode thankful to this "Veil ( Bridal ) of the Vale ( i.e. valley )". Driving from Colombo, the capital, via Avissawella one suddenly catches this unearthly sight which is to be soon enhanced by the grandeur of the "St. Clairs". This beauty too is endangered by the above-mentioned power plant beast

St.Clairs Waterfall

These majestic "St.Clairs" falls are close to the main road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya and can well be seen from the Main Line rail track close to Talawakelle. It falls down in two cascades and is an inviting site for regular bathers because it is fairly easily reacheable from a footpath ( actually there are many ) downhill through greeny tea shrubbery. Named after a British colonist, these are one of two waterfalls threatened by a proposed hydro-power scheme in the area