Things To Do In Sri Lanka
Ayurveda & Wellness
Sri Lanka has long been a sanctuary for body and spirit. Discover traditional Ayurveda, restorative retreats, and a wide range of wellness experiences across the island.
Ayurveda — A living tradition
Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems and has been practiced in Sri Lanka for over 2,000 years. Rooted in herbal medicine, therapeutic massages, and dietary guidance, Sri Lankan Ayurveda focuses on restoring balance to body, mind and spirit.
Modern spa resorts combine classical Ayurveda with complementary therapies such as Thai massage, hydrotherapy, herbal baths, reflexology, and beauty treatments. Meditation courses are commonly available at many centers.
Recommended Wellness Experiences
- Full Ayurvedic consultation and personalized treatment plans
- Panchakarma (detox and rejuvenation programs)
- Herbal oil massages, steam and herbal baths
- Meditation and yoga retreats in tranquil locations
Big Game Safari
Sri Lanka offers exceptional wildlife viewing — from land to sea. Expect elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambar, spotted deer, and large marine mammals including the Blue Whale. The island is one of the world’s rare places to see the largest mammals both on land and at sea.
Yala National Park is famed for high leopard densities, while Minneriya hosts the spectacular annual Elephant Gathering (July–September), where hundreds of elephants congregate on exposed lake beds.
Bird Watching
With 483 recorded bird species, including around 33 endemics, Sri Lanka is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Habitats range from wet-zone rainforest to dry-zone reservoirs and coastal wetlands.
Top spots include Sinharaja Rain Forest, Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, and wetlands such as Bundala, Wirawila, and Kalametiya—excellent for resident and migratory species alike.
Meditation & Spiritual Retreats
Sri Lanka has a strong tradition of Buddhist meditation and several respected centers offer residential retreats from a few days to two weeks. Programs typically include silent meditation, Dhamma talks, simple vegetarian meals and basic lodging.
We can connect you with centres such as Nilambe Meditation Centre (near Kandy) and Lanka Vipassana Meditation Centre in Colombo for bookings and contact details.
Outdoor & Adventure Activities
Hiking & Trekking
From misty hill-country trails to the Cultural Triangle’s hidden paths, trekking reveals tea estates, waterfalls and remote temples.
Cycling
Explore villages, paddy fields and coastal lanes on two wheels — short rides to multi-day cycling tours are available.
Rafting & Canoeing
Adventure river options range from beginner-friendly rapids in Kitulgala to challenging runs on the Mahaweli and Kalu Ganga.
Caving
Explore prehistoric and archaeological caves, including Belilena near Kitulgala.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Rich coral reefs and several shipwrecks along the south and east coasts make Sri Lanka great for both novice and experienced divers.
Surfing & Windsurfing
Arugam Bay ranks among the world’s top surf breaks (May–Oct). Bentota and Trincomalee are popular for wind sports at different seasons.
Fishing & Sailing
From traditional stilt-fishing to deep-sea sport fishing and coastal sailing, Sri Lanka’s waters offer something for everyone.
Hot Air Ballooning
Take sunrise flights over Sigiriya, Kandalama and the surrounding wilderness for spectacular aerial views and wildlife spotting.
Gems, Jewellery & Traditional Craft
Sri Lanka has a millennia-old gems tradition — famous for blue sapphires, rubies, cat’s eyes and many other stones. Purchase from licensed shops registered with the National Gem & Jewellery Authority in Colombo and Kandy.
Handicrafts — from mask carving in Ambalangoda to beeralu lace in Dickwella — are best bought directly where they are made, or from state-run outlets such as Laksala and Lakmadura.
Train Journey to the Hill Country
The rail ride from Kandy into the highlands (Nanu Oya, Ella, Haputale, Badulla) is one of the world’s most scenic journeys. We recommend booking 1st class observation cabins where available, or embracing local life in 2nd/3rd class for a truly memorable experience.
Weddings & Honeymoons
Sri Lanka provides dreamy settings for weddings and honeymoons — from beach villas to misty hill stations and heritage properties. Legal residency requirements apply (minimum five days), and several documents must be submitted 12 weeks in advance for marriage registration. We can assist with venue selection, local vendors, and ceremony logistics.
Festivals Year-Round
The island’s calendar is dotted with vibrant religious and cultural festivals. Every full moon day (Poya) is observed, and the Kandy Esala Perahera (late July–early August) is a spectacular display of dancers, drummers and ceremonial elephants.