Explore Iconic Destinations
“Small is beautiful” they say, and no other country with a landmass as small presents such a varied landscape and climate.
West & South Coast of Sri Lanka
On its west coast and to the north of Colombo, the fishing town of Negombo is quintessentially tourist and has an interesting pub culture. Its proximity to the airport and excellent beaches have helped it gain an almost cult following with faithful visitors returning every year. If you would prefer a more urban, cosmopolitan experience, the capital Colombo offers excellent bars and cafes, good nightlife, and shopping experiences to suit any taste. You could also immerse yourself in art and culture at its many galleries and museums.
The South Coast is by far the most popular, with a vibrant mix of modern and traditional influences. Beginning with Beruwela, the hubbub of Colombo’s urban sprawl abates and opens up to the magnificent Southern beaches of Sri Lanka. The beaches between Bentota and Hikkaduwa offer excellent water sports and present a unique party atmosphere. Look out for the arts and craft shops in this belt, which are famous for the traditional mask carvings.
Galle and its historic Dutch Fort offer a fascinating glimpse of post-colonial life with numerous period-era buildings converted into chic, boutique-style properties. Just outside Galle, Unawatuna Beach, with its horseshoe bay and surfing culture, is a must-do for the young at heart. Further down the coast, Mirrissa and Polhena beaches and the seas of it boast some of the best waters for whale watching in the world.
Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka
East Coast of Sri Lanka
The East coast presents an atmosphere all of its own. Its beaches of white sand are extremely quiet and the shallow, reef protected seas are ideal for long swims in its clear waters. The most popular destinations are Nilavelli off Trincomalee, and Passikudah off Batticaloa, both excellent sites for snorkeling and diving and also a whale watching hotspot. Arugam Bay, at the southern end of the East coast, is a surfers Mecca. Three popular surf points, provide both low and high swells making it perfect for the beginner and veteran alike.
The Northern Regions of the Island
The Northern regions are largely underdeveloped, but at the islands northernmost point Jaffna, is a prime attraction. Once an ancient kingdom, it is a historically significant link between India and Sri Lanka and has maintained a strong Hindu culture, seen in its numerous large kovils. On the north-western coast, Kalpitiya is a favoured haunt for kite-surfing and whale and dolphin watching.
The Central Highlands
If you’d like to escape the heat and humidity, then an escape to the hill country is what you need. Kandy, is the hill capital, and was home to the last King of Sri Lanka. The Temple of the Tooth which holds the tooth relic of the Buddha, lies here and is an important part of Buddhist pilgrimage. Further up into the hills, Nuwara Eliya with its misty mountains and bright green, carpet like tea fields soothes the senses. The brisk climate here helps to produce prized Ceylon Tea, and a visit to a tea garden will source you the finest tea the country can offer, factory fresh. The picturesque hill station of Ella, with a milder climate is also a tea growing area, and its old-world charm is redolent of colonial times.
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Travel Lanka Compass (TLC) is a company registered in Sri Lanka (Company Number: PV89378) and licensed by Sri Lanka Tourism (TDL Registration Number: SLTDA/SQA/TA/02268 and License Number: TA/2025/0238) to operate as a Travel Agent.
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