Galle’s rural inland landscape is largely unfrequented by tourists who visit this region, as they are often more preoccupied with visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort, or relaxing on the popular beaches along the Galle Coast. However, the countryside around Galle is truly picturesque and is particularly nice to explore if you are looking to discover the ‘authentic’ Sri Lanka which is sometimes hidden on the tourist trail – cycle past lush green paddy fields dotted with water buffalo, bright white egrets and vibrant kingfishers, sloping tea plantations, rice fields, small villages, temples and colourful gardens growing spices and fruit.
Best Time : 2 hours
Duration : Year-round
There are a range of cycling routes to try, all varying levels of difficulty, although none are too strenuous, and helmets, bikes, water and a support vehicle are all provided. The easiest is the Paddy Trail, a gentle 12km circular route which begins and ends at Wijaya Beach, a popular beach café in quiet Thalpe. The Paddy and Lake Trail (26km) is an extended version of the Paddy Trail, incorporating a beautiful additional section along the shores of Koggala Lake. The Kahanda Kanda Ride, which ends with either a decadent lunch or sunset cocktails at the luxurious Kahanda Kanda, is a non-strenuous trail through the paddy fields which also skirts Koggala Lake.
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.
Discover the 6 best water-sport activities in Sri Lanka, from athletic surfing, kite-surfing and windsurfing to laidback snorkelling and sailing trips.
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.
