Water Based Activities
Sri Lanka offers ocean based experiences that are unmatched anywhere else in the world. The island is surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and has a collection of coral reefs, a magnificent array of exotic fish, and ancient shipwrecks, all of which beckon the adventurous to take a dive and explore them. The coral reefs along the southern coast and shipwrecks – old and new – in the south and east are among Sri Lanka’s favourite dive sites. The warm nutrient-rich waters also attract whales and dolphins to its waters. Whales and dolphins – marine mammals both, one known for its sheer size and the other for their playfulness and willingness to perform – are at peak populations from December to April in various parts off the Sri Lankan coast.
If you belong to the tribe who is into what’s considered in some parts of the world, “man’s most scared ritual” – fishing – we have two coasts – one in the east and one in the west – ready for you, in two different seasons. Sri Lanka is home to some exceptional inland fishing lakes as well.
With hundreds of rivers and lakes, the island provides great opportunities for canoeing and kayaking expeditions lasting anywhere from just one day to multiple days. Kalpitiya, in the North West is considered one of the world’s best Kitesurfing destinations. On the opposite side of the island, Arugam Bay has made its mark in the world map as one of the top ten surfing destinations in the world.
Land Based Activities
With an ever-expanding network of roads and highways that wind through quickly varying terrain, from rolling hills to lush evergreen forests, seemingly endless paddy fields, vast national parks, ancient cities, and rural villages, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of opportunities to do land-based activities. A special highlight of the island is the central highlands, which put you in the midst of mountainous terrain, virgin rainforests filled with a cornucopia of rare birds and insects, misty emerald-green tea estates, and an eclectic range of towns and villages, each with its own character and history.
The mild temperatures of central Sri Lanka, in contrast to the sunny warmth of the coast have a cooling effect. Friendly villagers with welcoming smiles and scenes right out of a picture book will leave you wanting for more. This area is especially known for its trekking and mountain biking opportunities. With 26.5% of the country classified as protected land – a fact of which we are always proud – we are able to offer exceptional wildlife safari tours, birding trips, rainforest tours, etc. with special consideration towards their sustainability.
Air Based Activities
Perhaps the best way to enjoy Sri Lanka’s beauty is from above, and of the many options available, Hot Air Ballooning takes the number 1 spot for experience. You will be floating in a basket carried by the breeze 500 to 2000 feet in the air. Drift along where the wind takes you, watching the treetops, wildlife, lakes and rivers, remnants of ancient civilisations, local residential areas – urban and rural – and iconic landmarks such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
For a more thrilling experience, try powered paragliding, also known as paramotoring. This is a form of ultra-light aviation where the pilot wears a motor on his back – called a paramotor – that provides enough thrust to take you off the ground with the help of an adapted paraglider or paramotor wing.
Scenic flights and helicopter rides can also be arranged, for fun and as a mode of quick transport.
