Experiences
Things to Do in Sri Lanka
From leopard-spotting in Yala to surfing in Arugam Bay — browse our curated activities and add them to your custom itinerary.
105 activities
Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) Sunrise Hike
Climb the sacred Adam's Peak (2,243m) under starlight to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit. Revered by four religions, the mountain features the sacred footprint (Sri Pada) at its peak. The 5,500-step trail is illuminated and best attempted between December and May.
Adisham Bungalow Visit
Visit this beautiful English country house built in 1931, now a Benedictine monastery. The stunning gardens, period furniture, and homemade jams and preserves sold by the monks make this a charming stop.
Anuradhapura Archaeological Tour
A comprehensive guided tour of the sacred city's UNESCO-listed stupas, palaces, and ancient water tanks.
Arugam Bay Sunset Surf Watch
Watch professional surfers ride the famous point break as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Bambarakanda Falls Hike
Hike to Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall (263m), cascading down a sheer rock face surrounded by misty cloud forest. The trail winds through pine plantations and offers spectacular views of the hill country.
Bar Reef Snorkeling
Snorkel over Sri Lanka's largest coral reef — the Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary. Home to sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and over 150 species of colourful fish in crystal-clear waters.
Batticaloa Lagoon & City Tour
Visit the nearby city of Batticaloa, known as the "Land of the Singing Fish." Explore the Dutch fort, the scenic lagoon, and the charming colonial-era streets of this historic east coast city.
Bentota Beach Day
Relax on one of Sri Lanka's finest stretches of golden sand, with calm waters perfect for swimming.
Blue Whale & Dolphin Watching
Board a boat to witness blue whales — the largest animals on earth — in their natural ocean habitat off the southern coast.
Brief Garden Visit
Explore the whimsical tropical garden of artist Bevis Bawa — a hidden gem of sculptures, rare plants, and artistic surprises.
Casuarina Beach Day
Relax on the beautiful Casuarina Beach on Karainagar Island — a stunning stretch of white sand lined with casuarina trees and calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming.
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Ascend the 5th-century citadel past ancient frescoes and the famous mirror wall to panoramic summit views.
Coconut Tree Hill Sunset
Walk to this picture-perfect headland where leaning coconut palms frame a golden Indian Ocean sunset.
Colombo City Food Tour
A guided walking tour of Colombo's best street food, from hoppers to kottu roti.
Colombo Harbour Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise around Colombo harbour with views of the city skyline.
Coral Reef Snorkeling
Snorkel over Hikkaduwa's famous living coral sanctuary — home to turtles, reef fish, and fan corals.
Crocodile Rock Viewpoint
Walk to a scenic ocean headland where surfers ride the waves below and sea eagles circle overhead.
Cycling Tour of Polonnaruwa Ruins
Explore the sprawling ancient ruins at your own pace by bicycle — the best way to cover the site.
Dambatenne Tea Factory Tour
Tour the historic Dambatenne Tea Factory, founded by Sir Thomas Lipton in 1890. Watch the fascinating process of withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying that transforms fresh leaves into world-famous Ceylon tea.
Dambulla Fresh Produce Market
Visit the largest wholesale vegetable and fruit market in Sri Lanka — a vibrant spectacle at dawn.
Dambulla Royal Rock Cave Temple
Explore five magnificent cave shrines carved into a rock outcrop, housing 153 Buddha statues and ancient murals.
Divurumpola Temple
The sacred site where Sita proved her purity through the "Agni Pariksha" (fire ordeal) as described in the Ramayana. A deeply revered temple among Hindu pilgrims on the Ramayana trail.
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Set out at dawn to witness large pods of spinner dolphins — sometimes numbering in the hundreds — leaping and spinning in the waters off Kalpitiya. Sperm whales are also spotted during season.
Elephant Back Safari
A gentle ride through the forest on a rescued elephant — an unforgettable cultural experience.
Ella Rock Hike
A more challenging full-day hike through tea estates and jungle to a dramatic viewpoint above the clouds.
Gal Vihara Rock Sculptures
Marvel at four magnificent Buddha figures carved directly into a single granite face — a masterpiece of ancient art.
Galle Dutch Reformed Church
One of the oldest Protestant churches in Asia (1755), with original Dutch gravestones set into its floor.
Galle Face Green Sunset Walk
Stroll along this iconic oceanfront promenade, soak in the sunset, and try local street snacks.
Galle Fort Walking Tour
Wander the UNESCO-listed Dutch colonial fort, its ramparts, lighthouse, boutiques, and centuries-old streets.
Galle Lighthouse & Ramparts Sunset
Watch the sunset from the fort's outer walls with views over the Indian Ocean — one of Sri Lanka's iconic scenes.
Gangaramaya Temple Visit
One of Colombo's most revered temples — an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture.
Glass-Bottom Boat Coral Tour
View the coral gardens and tropical fish without getting wet from a glass-bottom boat.
Gregory Lake Boat Ride
Paddle or cruise on the serene lake framed by pine forests and colonial bungalows.
Hakgala Botanical Garden
A stunning highland garden at 1,700 m altitude, believed to be the legendary Ashoka Vatika where Sita was kept by Ravana. Features rare orchids, roses, and ancient trees with spectacular mountain views.
Hamilton Canal Boat Ride
A scenic boat journey along the historic Dutch-built canal, lined with mangroves and fishing villages.
Horton Plains & World's End Hike
Trek across a windswept plateau to the dramatic World's End cliff, dropping 880 m into the lowland jungle below.
Hummanaya Blow Hole
Witness the spectacular Hummanaya Blow Hole near Kudawella — the second-largest natural blow hole in the world, shooting seawater up to 25 metres into the air during the monsoon season.
Jaffna Fort Tour
Explore the imposing 17th-century Dutch-built fort, one of the best-preserved colonial fortifications in Asia. Walk along the massive ramparts with views over the Jaffna lagoon and learn about centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British history.
Jaffna Public Library Visit
Visit one of Asia's finest libraries, painstakingly rebuilt after its tragic destruction in 1981. The stunning Mughal-inspired architecture and the library's story of resilience make this a deeply moving experience.
Japanese Peace Pagoda Hike
A short jungle trail leads to a serene white Buddhist stupa on a hilltop with sweeping views of the coastline.
Jungle Beach Snorkeling
A short hike through coastal jungle leads to a secluded beach with excellent snorkeling just offshore.
Kalpitiya Lagoon Safari
Cruise through the serene mangrove-lined lagoon of Kalpitiya by boat, spotting migratory birds, monitor lizards, and the region's unique coastal ecosystem at golden hour.
Kandy Lake & City Walk
A pleasant walk around the scenic lake in the heart of Kandy, with views of the cloud-capped hills.
Kanniya Hot Springs
Visit seven ancient wells with naturally warm water at different temperatures — a unique geological curiosity.
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
One of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist temples, also revered in the Ramayana as the site where Vibhishana — Ravana's virtuous brother — was crowned King of Lanka by Rama.
Kite Surfing
Ride the consistent winds of Kalpitiya, one of Asia's top kite surfing destinations. The shallow, flat-water lagoon is perfect for beginners, while the open ocean offers thrilling conditions for advanced riders.
Kitulgala White Water Rafting
Experience thrilling white water rafting on the Kelani River at Kitulgala, a popular stop on the route from Nuwara Eliya to Colombo. Navigate through exciting Grade 3-4 rapids surrounded by lush rainforest. The area is also famous as the filming location of "The Bridge on the River Kwai".
Koneswaram Temple Visit
A sacred Hindu temple perched on Swami Rock cliff, offering dramatic views over Trincomalee's natural harbour.
Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery
Visit a turtle conservation project and watch baby sea turtles being released into the Indian Ocean.
Kumana National Park Safari
A remote wilderness safari through the park adjacent to Yala, famous for its vast bird colonies and wildlife.
Lipton's Seat Sunrise Viewpoint
Drive up through the lush Dambatenne tea estate to Lipton's Seat — the famous viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his tea empire. On a clear morning, the panoramic views stretch across the southern plains to the coast.
Little Adam's Peak Hike
A gentle 3 km hike to a grassy summit with sweeping panoramic views over Ella Gap and the valleys below.
Lunuganga Estate Tour
Visit the country estate of legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa — a masterpiece of garden design set on a hilltop peninsula.
Madu River Mangrove Safari
Glide through a UNESCO-listed mangrove ecosystem by boat, spotting monitor lizards, exotic birds, and a cinnamon island along the way.
Mihintale Rock Monastery
Climb the ancient stone stairway to the mountaintop where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka in 247 BC.
Minneriya National Park Safari
Witness the famous "Gathering" — hundreds of wild Asian elephants congregating around Minneriya Tank.
Mirissa Beach Snorkeling
Explore the coral gardens and tropical fish of Mirissa's sheltered bay with a mask and fins.
Morning Wildlife Safari
An early-morning jeep safari when wildlife is most active — ideal for leopard and elephant sightings.
Mulkirigala Rock Temple
Climb the ancient rock monastery of Mulkirigala, featuring seven cave temples with beautiful Buddha statues and murals dating back over 2,000 years. The summit rewards you with sweeping views of the southern plains.
Munneswaram Kovil
One of the five ancient Panchaishwaram Shiva temples of Sri Lanka, where Lord Rama is said to have worshipped Shiva to cleanse himself after slaying Ravana. A deeply sacred Ramayana trail site revered by Hindu pilgrims across South Asia.
Nainativu Island & Nagapooshani Temple
Take a scenic boat ride to the sacred island of Nainativu, home to the revered Nagapooshani Amman Hindu temple and the ancient Nagadipa Purana Viharaya Buddhist temple — a rare site sacred to both religions.
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Visit
Visit the most important Hindu temple in Jaffna, dedicated to Lord Murugan. The stunning gopuram (tower gateway) and vibrant daily pujas offer an authentic window into Tamil Hindu culture and devotion.
Namal Uyana Forest Reserve
Walk through the largest ironwood forest in Asia, home to rare flora and migratory birds.
National Museum of Colombo
Explore Sri Lanka's largest museum covering 2,500 years of history, royal regalia, and ancient artefacts.
Negombo Beach Relaxation
Unwind on Negombo's long sandy beach, popular for swimming and watching colourful fishing catamarans.
Negombo Fish Market Tour
Visit the bustling early-morning fish auction — one of the largest in South Asia.
Nilaveli Beach Day
Relax on one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful and uncrowded white-sand beaches on the east coast.
Nine Arch Bridge Visit
Watch colonial-era steam trains cross the iconic nine-arch viaduct buried in lush jungle — Ella's most photographed sight.
Pasikuda Bay Snorkeling
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life beneath the calm, shallow waters of Pasikuda Bay — ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Pasikuda Beach Day
Spend a blissful day on one of the world's shallowest beaches — wade hundreds of metres into the warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters of Pasikuda Bay. Perfect for families and non-swimmers alike.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
Stroll through 147 acres of stunning gardens featuring giant bamboo, orchids, a spice garden, and a famous Java fig tree.
Pettah Market Exploration
Dive into Colombo's oldest bazaar — a sensory feast of spices, fabrics, and street food.
Pidurangala Rock Hike
Hike the nearby Pidurangala Rock for the best view of Sigiriya Lion Rock — a favourite at sunrise.
Pigeon Island Snorkeling
Sri Lanka's best snorkeling — crystal-clear waters with blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, and abundant coral.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Visit the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. Watch baby elephants being bottle-fed and see the entire herd walk to the nearby river for their daily bath — a truly magical experience just a short drive from Kandy.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour
A guided tour of the UNESCO-listed medieval capital — palaces, stupas, and sacred ponds spanning 1,000 years of history.
Pottuvil Lagoon Safari
Explore the mangrove-lined lagoon by boat and spot crocodiles, water buffalo, and rare birdlife.
Ravana Cave
A large cave on the hillside believed to be where King Ravana hid Sita after abducting her. An atmospheric site steeped in legend with sweeping views of the surrounding jungle.
Ravana Falls Visit
One of Sri Lanka's widest waterfalls, steeped in Ramayana mythology — a refreshing stop on the hillside road.
Rekawa Turtle Watch
Join a guided night excursion to Rekawa Beach, one of Sri Lanka's most important sea turtle nesting sites. Watch endangered green, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs under the stars.
Rumassala Jungle Walk
Trek through the Rumassala nature reserve — said to be the spot where Hanuman dropped a piece of the Himalayan mountain range.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Circumambulate the great white dagoba — a sacred monument standing 103 m tall and dating back to 140 BC.
Scenic Train Ride Through Hill Country
Ride one of the world's most beautiful train journeys through mist-covered mountains and tea plantations.
Sea Turtle Hatchery Visit
Learn about Sri Lanka's sea turtle conservation efforts and see hatchlings being released into the ocean.
Secret Beach Exploration
Discover Mirissa's quieter, tucked-away beaches — perfect for swimming and total relaxation.
Seetha Amman Kovil
A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Sita from the Ramayana epic, built at the very spot where she is believed to have been held captive by King Ravana. One of the most important Ramayana trail sites in Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya Village Cycling Tour
Cycle through rural Sri Lankan villages, paddy fields, and jungle paths with a local guide.
Sithulpawwa Rock Temple
Explore a 2,000-year-old rock monastery hidden within the national park, with cave shrines and hilltop views.
Spice Garden Tour
Learn about cinnamon, cardamom, and other native spices at a working plantation outside Kandy.
Sri Maha Bodhi Sacred Tree
Visit the world's oldest recorded tree — a cutting from the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment.
St. Mary's Church Visit
A beautiful Catholic church built in 1874, featuring impressive ceiling murals and ornate interiors.
Strawberry Farm Visit
Pick fresh strawberries at a highland farm and enjoy homemade jam and cream in the cool mountain air.
Surf Lesson at Main Point
Learn to surf at Arugam Bay's famous point break — one of the top ten surf spots in the world.
Surfing Lesson
Take a beginner or intermediate surf lesson on Hikkaduwa's consistent beach break — the top surf destination on the west coast.
Tangalle Beach Relaxation
Unwind on the pristine, uncrowded beaches of Tangalle — from the palm-fringed Goyambokka to the dramatic rocky coves of Hiriketiya. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and escaping the tourist trail.
Tea Plantation Factory Tour
Walk through emerald-green tea fields and watch the full process from leaf to cup at a working factory.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
Visit Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist site, housing the revered tooth relic of the Buddha within a beautiful golden shrine.
Traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
A colourful evening performance of ancient Kandyan drumming, fire walking, and classical dance.
Udawalawe National Park Safari
Embark on an unforgettable jeep safari through Udawalawe National Park, famous for its large herds of wild elephants. Spot elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The park offers one of the best elephant-watching experiences in Asia.
Unawatuna Beach & Snorkeling
Swim in the sheltered turquoise bay and snorkel over vibrant coral gardens just metres from shore.
Ussangoda National Park
A mysterious red coastal plateau believed to be the site of Ravana's ancient airport — scorched by Hanuman's fire. A unique landscape of red earth, sea winds, and sweeping ocean views.
Victoria Park Stroll
A charming botanical park with rare highland birds, flower beds, and a cool stream running through it.
Water Sports at Bentota
Try jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides, and wakeboarding on the Bentota lagoon.
Whale Watching (Blue & Sperm Whales)
One of the world's best locations for blue and sperm whale sightings, just off the Trincomalee coast.
Yala National Park Jeep Safari
Spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species in Sri Lanka's most celebrated wildlife reserve.