The tropical island of Sri Lanka is a great place for water-sports, with hundreds of miles of beaches and some major rivers offering the chance to soak up the sun and have fun. Discover just some of the best activities on the water in Sri Lanka:
Best Time : N/A
Duration : December to March, June to September
Surfing
Sri Lanka has a world-class surfing venue in the bohemian surfie town of Arugam Bay, on the east coast. Like Passikudah further north, in the east coast, it is at its best from June to October. From November to April, attention switches to the south-west. Learn to surf in Weligama, team up with the surfing community in Ahangama and Hiriketiya or seek some waves in the west-coast resort of Hikkaduwa.
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
Scuba diving and snorkelling can also be rewarding in Sri Lanka, with several PADI-certified diving centres around the island so you can safely explore the tropical fish and coral reefs that stud the coastline. All the equipment you need can be provided by the centre, along with an excursion guide. Pigeon Island, north of Trincomalee on the east coast, Hikkaduwa in the south-west and Kalpitiya in the north-west are a few favourite spots.
Kite Surfing
Kalpitiya is world-renowned among kite-surfing enthusiasts. This narrow coastal strip in Sri Lanka’s north-west lies between the ocean and a large lagoon in Puttalam and enjoys breezes most of the year. This strenuous activity combines aspects of snowboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, and gymnastics into one activity. There are two kite seasons in this laid-back and soulful spot – May to October and again from mid-December to mid-March. Several kitesurfing schools offer training and equipment hire.
Sailing
Sailing is finally gaining ground in Sri Lanka, although there are still only a handful of reputable operators. Cruise any of the four coasts at the appropriate time of year, so ensuring safe sea conditions and good weather. Gain access to pristine beaches and get a new take on this tropical paradise. Sailing as an activity is also available in Sri Lanka in places like Bolgoda Lake and Bentota.
White Water Rafting
The beautiful Kelani River in Kitulgala is the centre of Sri Lanka’s canoeing and white-water rafting activity. It’s important to pick one of the most safety-conscious and skilful local providers who will provide equipment and training.
Windsurfing
An international surfing magazine has hailed Sri Lanka as “an untouched windsurfing paradise”, and who are we to disagree? Kalpitiya Lagoon is an ideal spot. Negombo, the closest beach town to the international airport, is another venue to consider; the shorebreak requires level 4 experience in the breezy peak-season months from January to March. The broad Bentota river estuary is an ideal spot for beginners.
The Knuckles Mountain Range is perfect for hiking – a land of mystical peaks, chattering waterfalls and hidden hillside villages, with breathtaking visas and a remoteness that will appeal to experienced and novice hikers alike.
Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most majestic, awe-inspiring and stunning historical locations in the world, built in the 5th century AD by ‘mad’ King Kasyapa.
The favourite viewing point of Sir Thomas Lipton, Lipton’s Seat offers one of the most spectacular views of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. Drive to the top, or walk up through the surrounding plantations.
Tradition relates that a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka in 4th century A.D. and has been enshrined in the Dalanda Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, since the late 1500s.
Cycle through Galle’s beautiful countryside, passing paddy fields dotted with iconic white egrets and water buffalo, quiet villages, tea and rice fields. Choose from a range of routes.
Set out from the shores of Trinco or Pasikudah in a catamaran and explore the splendour of Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline. Go to beautiful private coves and snorkel off colourful reefs.
This modern catamaran complete with professional crew sets out from Mirissa Harbour at 6:30am, beating the other boats in order to have the best dolphin and whale sightings.
Yala National Park, situated in the south-east corner of the island, is home to the greatest variety of Sri Lanka’s wildlife including the island’s big game – elephants, leopards and sloth bears.
A `Perehara’ is a cultural procession, an ancient historic ritual where tradition, religion, and the arts all come together. The annual Kandy Perahera is an astonishing spectacle.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built by the Portuguese before it was further developed by the Dutch and British, covers nearly 4sqkm and houses a range of old colonial buildings.
Sri Lanka’s medieval capital from 1073 until the late 1200s, the ruins of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa are incredibly well-preserved and include magnificant granite sculptures of Lord Buddha.
