South Coast

From untouched beaches to a UNESCO World Heritage site, leopard safaris to lush wetlands, the sun-baked coastline from Bentota to Tissamaharama is home to tropical surrounds, pristine sand dunes, surf spots, sleepy fishing villages, magnificent temples, colonial digs and abundant wildlife.

Here, the visitors will encounter a great variety of attractions and experience the traditional village life that still revolves around coconut farms, paddy fields and fishing.

The glorious shoreline of pristine beaches stretches south of Bentota and boasts one picture-perfect cove after another - including Unawatuna, Weligama, Mirissa and Tangalle. The atmospheric Dutch Forts in Galle and Matara offer an interesting insight on Sri Lanka’s colonial past, while Tissamaharama and Kataragama have remarkable shrines and ancient religious sites. Here, you will find also Bundala National Park, famous for its impressive birdlife, and Yala, known for high concentration of elephants and leopards.

Buttala

Located in the Monaragala district in south-eastern part of the island, Buttala is a prime eco tourism destination witch rich cultural and historical heritage. According to the 5th century Buddhist chronicle "Mahavamsa", this area had a great importance as it was situated on the northern border of Ruhunu Kingdom and King Dutugemunu's used it on his way to Anuradhapura.

The landscapes re tremendously varied with abandoned chena fields, irrigation tanks, dense forests, scrub jungles, and the rare tropical woods (such as the protected ebony tree). The region provides also an ideal base for exploring the famous Yala National Park. The park was originally a reserve for hunters, but it was declared a protected area in 1900, a sanctuary in 1909, and a national park in 1938. It is a fascinating agglomeration of protected areas and consists of a variety of different ecosystems - essential for the diverse wildlife that inhabits it.