Sri Lanka is renowned for its stunning beaches, which are among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island nation, located in the Indian Ocean, boasts a diverse coastline that stretches for over 1,300 kilometers. Here are some highlights about Sri Lankan beaches:
South Coast: This area features popular beaches like Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa, known for their golden sands, vibrant nightlife, and water sports.
West Coast: Beaches such as Bentota and Kalutara are famous for their luxury resorts and water activities, including jet skiing and windsurfing.
East Coast: Places like Arugam Bay are famous for surfing, especially during the monsoon season, while Nilaveli and Trincomalee offer beautiful, tranquil settings.
Water Sports: Many beaches offer activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and whale watching. Mirissa is particularly famous for whale watching tours. Many visitors come to Sri Lankan beaches to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene environment. Some beaches are near historical sites, allowing visitors to explore local culture and heritage.
Wildlife and Nature
The waters around Sri Lanka are rich in marine biodiversity, making them ideal for snorkeling and diving. Coral reefs and various fish species can be found in many areas. Certain beaches, like those near Kosgoda, are known for turtle conservation projects where visitors can learn about and sometimes participate in the protection of sea turtles.
Embark on a remarkable journey through the North and East of Sri Lanka, a region that has long been shrouded in mystery and has only recently opened its doors to travellers. With nearly three decades of conflict behind it, this beautiful island is now a haven for exploration and adventure.
With Aceplorer Tours, you will experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin your journey by visiting the remnants of ancient kingdoms, such as the historic city of Jaffna, where you can explore ancient temples and forts that tell the stories of Sri Lanka’s rich past. Discover the vibrant culture of the Tamil people, whose traditions and heritage are integral to the region.
As you venture further into the North and East, revel in the stunning coastal towns. From the pristine beaches of Trincomalee to the serene shores of Nilaveli, enjoy leisurely walks on soft sands and invigorating swims in turquoise waters. Opt for exciting water sports, or simply relax with a refreshing drink as you soak in the serene atmosphere.
Upon arrival at the airport / or pre requested location in Colombo you will meet our English-speaking Chauffeur/Guide. Thereafter you will travel directly to the ancient city of Anuradhapura. You may either spend the day relaxing by the pool or visit the Anuradhapura town.
After an early breakfast at the hotel, leave for the town of Jaffna. After a 5 hour journey, arrive in Jaffna for lunch and to explore the lost town. Visit the now restored Jaffna Library, the iconic Nallur Temple or even indulge in an ice cream sundae at Rio Ice cream. Make sure to see as much as possible before retiring for the night at Expo Pavilion Hotel.
Set off to the island of Nagadeepa which houses a temple and kovil. A 15 minute boat ride from the coast is the only possible access to the island. After returning have lunch and continue onto the Keeri Malai Kovil and Freshwater Pond.
You have the option of an excursion to Pigeon Island. Named after the Rock Pigeon that colonized the island, It has some of the best coral sites in Sri Lanka. Thereafter, visit Trincomalee War Cemetery one of the six commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka.
After breakfast head out to Pasikudah. Pasikudah is a popular tourist destination boasting one of the longest stretches of shallow coastline in the world. Walk kilometers into the ocean with it only reaching your knees, a truly amazing experience.
Since the day has been spent enjoying the sights of the town, sit back and relax with a cocktail on the undisturbed, quiet beach.
Visit the town of Habarana and take in the ancient culture of Buddhism at the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. If time permits you may embark on a safari at Minneriya National Park to sight some lovely elephants before retiring for the evening.
Following breakfast, you will be dropped off at the pre requested location in Colombo after seeing what many in the North and East have not seen.
Anuradhapura in the northern centre of Sri Lanka is where a sapling of the Bhodhi tree of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, was planted. The Sri Maha Bodhiya is the oldest documented tree that is still living. The city also has palaces, monasteries and monuments (all in ruins) that are fascinating to visit.
Ruwanwelisaya, an ancient stupa, is revered by the Buddhist community. Thuparamaya enshrines the collarbone of the Buddha and is considered to be the first dagaba, or pagoda, built in Sri Lanka. Lovamahapaya also known as the Brazen Palace is between the Ruwanvaliseya and Sri Maha Bodhiya. Jetavanarama is the largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Apart from these beautiful places there are other stupas and relics, soaring over the vast acres of paddy fields in the area.
Located in the Northern Province is the colourful city of Jaffna, on a peninsula that is like an island with only a narrow connection with the rest of Sri Lanka at Elephant Pass. The Jaffna Market is thrilling to visit with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of locally produced goods, fruits and vegetables. As a contrast to the bustling commerce of the town there is the spirituality of the Hindu temple known as the Nallur Kovil. Visits can also be made by boat to the Buddhist shrine on the island of Nagadeepa.
A contrast is Delft Island with its ruins of forts and wild ponies that roam carefree. There is even a beach, some 35km from Jaffna, fringed with Casurina trees, after which it is named. To visit Jaffna is to appreciate yet another aspect of multi- cultured Sri Lanka.
Trincomalee, popularly known as Trinco, has a huge, natural harbour, however it was never developed – apart from being a base of the Sri Lanka navy today, and being guarded by Fort Frederick, which bears the date 1676 above its arch. The fort is open to visitors who can walk to the summit to view of the harbour and the Swami Rock behind the Koneswaram temple.
The Hot Wells in Trincomalee are another popular attraction. This is an unusual place as there are seven hot wells in which the water is naturally of different temperatures. Close to Trincomalee, at Uppuveli, is a broad strip of beach with smart hotels as well as beachside guest shacks for divers and beach lovers. Trincomalee is 257km by good road from Colombo and is served by a daily Night Mail train.
Passikudah is a popular tourist destination boasting one of the longest stretches of shallow coastline in the world. Walk kilometers into the beautiful ocean reaching your knees, to gaze at the glistening horizon. A truly amazing experience.
Habarana is the central point of Sri Lanka’s cultural and historic triangle and the most convenient base for excursions to the Ancient historical cities. Located in the north central part of the island, Habarana is a part of Sri Lanka’s dry zone. Thanks to the genius of our ancient kings dating as far as the 05th Century AD, the Sri Lankan dry zone is anything but dry, with hundreds of lakes and reservoirs which are connected by an elaborate network of canals making up an old but great irrigation system. Aside from the benefit for agriculture and industry, the waterworks of the dry zone provide some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery and fertile habitat for the islands incredible bio-diversity.
Minneriya National Park. sitting in the center of the cultural triangle, is a good alternative to the busier parks in the south and it is easy to weave in a day here between visiting the ancient cities. The dry season, preferably from June to September, is the best time to visit the 8,890-hectare park when the ancient tank, the lake that dominates the area, dries out the grass. During this time, it is possible to see herds of up to 150 elephants feeding and washing, as well as toque macaques, sambar deer and leopards. The hungry bird flocks include cormorants and painted storks. Minneriya, closest by car to the ancient city Polonnaruwa, was upgraded from a nature reserve to a national park because of the increased number of tourists coming to see the elephants.
This tour starts off in style with two nights in an individual luxury chalet with its own jetty on an island in a lagoon located in the northwest of the country. Then from the lushness of mangroves to coconut palms that fringe the long curving beach close to Trincomalee on the opposite, eastern, coast. there’s another beach with shallow water in the newly developed resort of Passikudah to the south. Then on to a small resort within easy reach of Arugam Bay, the surfers’ paradise.
It’s back to the west coast with a drive along the southern shore to Galle and a nearby luxury boutique hotel set on the beach just north of the old colonial fort. At Kosgoda guests are based in a fully staffed holiday bungalow with its own pool. There is an opportunity to tour Colombo before rounding off this experience of the beaches and seas with a night at a luxury beach hotel close to the airport.
Kalpitiya is fast becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most sought-after holiday destinations, mostly for its undisturbed natural beauty, luxurious hotels and resorts and promise of seeing dolphins play around in its waters. Rich in biodiversity, owing to the sea and the Puttalam lagoon that borders this village, Kalpitiya is a true paradise.
A Whale Watching boat ride into the ocean is a must if one is in Kalpitiya. The spinner dolphins are fun to watch, as they playfully dive in and out of the water, delighting those who are lucky to spot them. During certain times of the year, the majestic blue whale and the sperm whale are also seen gliding through the waters of this area.
After breakfast head to the Eastern shores of Trincomalee. Housing one of the largest natural harbors in the world, Trincomalee is home to beautiful beaches and a colorful town. Recently it had been a base for the Sri Lankan Army and Navy but now it remains an amazing multicultural town with lovely beaches and roots dating back to Marco Polo.
The Trincomalee town is a beautiful town that has been influenced by all our colonial visitors. Pigeon Island National Park, Marble Beach and the Koneswaram Temple are sights to see.
Pasikuda is renowned because of its extended shallow coastline, making it a great spot for sunbathing and shallow swimming. The mesmerizing, azure waters are hard to resist and, along with the pristine, white-golden sand of the beach, create an incredible sight. Check into your hotel and spend the day at leisure.
Pottuvil is a quiet, coastal town located in the Ampara District in the east of Sri Lanka. Although major tourism developments are yet to take place in this area, it is in close proximity – around four kilometers – to Arugam Bay, a very popular surfing and holiday destination.
The lagoon of Pottuvil lies lazily as a multitude of bird and animal species flock to its waters. Elephants and crocodiles are seen regularly on its banks whilst a colorful array of birds, including diving birds and eagles, graze the branches and treetops of the surrounding, thick mangrove forest.
A well-known seaport in ancient times when merchant ships anchored here to trade the famous Fort in Galle was originally built by the Portuguese in 1589 and named Santa Cruz. After the Dutch occupation it was destroyed and rebuilt on a larger scale to cover an area over 36 hectares. This world Heritage site is a very interesting place to visit as the old and modern city blend together in perfect harmony.
The Aditiya Hotel is perfect for relaxing. Lounge in your very own private plunge pool or head to the quiet, secluded beach to soak up some sun.
Kosgoda Beach is a very secluded beach on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The beach is often visited by Sea Turtles to lay eggs and thus the turtle conservation looks after this beach to ensure the survival of this majestic marine creature.
Walk along the beach that inspired the name of the hotel with its saffron sands and blue skies. Visit the turtle conservation project that strives to sustain rare marine life or relax in the 40ft pool in the hotel.
The city of Colombo is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital. The most populated city is home to many sites from colonial times to newer developments. Visit the city’s main shopping centers to indulge in some shopping before heading off to Negombo Beach.
After breakfast head to the airport to end your beach tour in Sri Lanka.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Sri Lanka, located on the southwestern coast of the island. This impressive fortification, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century, stands as a testament to the colonial history and architectural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Galle Fort was established in 1588 by the Portuguese as a strategic coastal defense against invading forces and to protect their trade routes. The Dutch seized control of the fort in 1640 and undertook extensive renovations, transforming it into a formidable bastion. The fort’s design reflects a blend of European architectural styles, influenced by both Portuguese and Dutch designs, and incorporates local elements, making it a unique example of colonial architecture.
Kalpitiya is one of the finest places in Sri Lanka to go dolphin and whale watching. Kalpitiya allows you to observe many dolphins swimming beside and under your boat, riding waves, jumping, to spin, twirling, and jumping out of the water in a beautiful show; it is a magnificent trip you will never have forgotten in your life. The dolphin- watching season runs from October through May. The ideal months for whale watching are February/March/April. However, you may be able to see whales during dolphin season as well.
The vibrant town of Unawatuna remains one of the top holiday destinations, even considered by some to have one of the best beaches in Asia. During the Dutch colonial period, the Dutch settlers, who fought for Galle in 1640, built houses for their officers in this town, some of which are seen to date, in their untouched exteriors.
Today, the town is alive during most times of the year, drawing tourists and fun- seekers to its tranquil beaches. The coral reef and shipwrecks in this area can be explored through the many scuba diving and snorkeling activities offered by various diving centres along the beach. Rich in biodiversity, Unawatuna is home to many endemic birds as well as an enthralling variety of fish and turtles. The Turtle Hatchery of Habaraduwa gives visitors the opportunity to observe the hatching process of endangered turtle species.
The sleepy district of Puttalam lies on the west coast of Sri Lanka, lying serenely between the vast, blue sea and the tranquil Puttalam Lagoon. It is deeply embedded in the history of Sri Lanka as a significant destination of foreign settlers and explorers. The name Puttalam is believed to be a derivation of the Tamil word, uppuththalam (uppu meaning salt and thalam meaning production zone).
Prince Vijaya, who set foot in the island 2,500 years ago, found himself in the area of Puttalam when his boat washed ashore. Today, Muslims make up the majority of its population, and salt and coconut production, and prawn farming act as the mainlivelihoodsofthoselivinginthearea. Puttalamisthesecondlargestproducer of both salt and coconut in Sri Lanka.
Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay has become one of the hippest travel destinations, especially amongst young, urbane globetrotters who are enchanted by its magical landscapes and big, bold waves. Arugam Bay has gained international fame as one of the best surfing destinations of the world and is home to the annual Arugam Bay Surf Competition, which draws in many pro-surfers from around the world.
The best time for surfing is between the months of May to November. The offshore and right hand breaks during this time period are ideal conditions for surfing. There are many excellent points of break in the area for surfers, including The Point, Pottuvil Point, Peanut Farm and Crocodile Rock.
Northeast of Sri Lanka, is the nation’s port harbor, Trincomalee. Apart from its commercial reputation as a strategic maritime location, the coastal city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country for both travelers and locals alike. Whether it is traveling with children, loved ones, and friends or merely by yourself, the city has a lot to offer. Elements of spiritual experiences, natural wonders and elements of relaxation come together in serving guests the best journey they have made.Northeast of Sri Lanka, is the nation’s port harbor, Trincomalee. Apart from its commercial reputation as a strategic maritime location, the coastal city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country for both travelers and locals alike. Whether it is traveling with children, loved ones, and friends or merely by yourself, the city has a lot to offer. Elements of spiritual experiences, natural wonders and elements of relaxation come together in serving guests the best journey they have made.
