55 Places to Visit in Southern Province Sri Lanka & Top Tourist Places

Tourist Places to Visit in Southern Province Sri Lanka

Turtle Hatchery, Unawatuna Beach, Kumana National Park, Koggala Beach, Bentota Beach, Flag Rock, Dutch Reformed Church, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Galle Dutch Fort, Jungle Beach, Galle Fort Lighthouse, Mirissa Beach, Bundala National Park, and many more places to visit in southern province Sri Lanka.

Get ready for an epic Sri Lankan holiday by visiting Southern Province Sri Lanka that exhibits a vibrant mash-up of the new and the ancient. Whether you're looking for stunning scenery, the grandeur of colonial-era architecture or remote cultural immersion, Southern Province Sri Lanka should be your ideal destination.

You can soak the sun at a picturesque beach, explore historical buildings, go scuba diving, discover the hidden attractions on foot, shop for artifacts, and go for nature walks. Get ready for an authentic jungle experience at Kumana National Park that is famous for its avifauna and migratory birds. 

Weligama is a picturesque town in Matara District in Southern Province Sri Lanka that is deemed as Sri Lanka’s surf capital. If powdery white sandy beaches and turquoise blue beaches are what you crave, head to Mirissa, a picturesque coastal town known for its hippy laid back vibe. To witness the outdoor landscapes and enjoy safari experiences you can head to Bundala national park.

If you’re a bird lover you can visit Unawatuna, which is rich in biodiversity and flora and fauna. So get ready for endless fun, excitement, and adventure by visiting Southern Province Sri Lanka.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Southern Province Sri Lanka: 

    Image description
    Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
    We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
    Connect with a group tour expert
    Full Name
    Email
    Phone number
    Travel Date
    Traveller Count
    Message
    Top Sellers of Sri Lanka Explore All (6)
    01

    Galle

    This historic city of Sri Lanka is located on the country’s southwest coast, and is famous for its portuguese heritage and dutch colonial buildings. The best tourist places in Galle includes grand museums, mansions, churches and mosques. Offering the ocean and pretty sunsets, the beautiful city of Galle was founded by the portuguese in the sixteenth century, and you will find the city embracing its ancient heritage every inch. Galle will remind you of its dutch and portuguese lineage, a town famous for its rich Sri lankan cuisine, pepper pot towers and bastions. The city gives you a Mediterranean feel with its bright sunny skies, beaches and blue waters, rainforests of Kanneliya and Hiyare, the city’s narrow lanes lined with various shops that sell you everything from intricate jewellery to shoes and garments.

    If you visit Galle between November and April, you can drop by a Mirissa to see the largest animal on the planet; a blue whale. For a beach lover who loves the ocean and the warm sun, there’s no better place to go other than this tropical retreat. The rainforests of Kanneliya and Hiyare are famous for the nature walks they offer, you will see small animals and an excellent diversity when it comes to the flora and fauna. To sum it up, the tourist places in Galle offers you a variety like no other place in the country.

    You can explore historical buildings, relax at any beach, go scuba diving, go cliff jumping at Flag Rock, go for safaris, discover the city and its culture on foot, shop artefacts, go for nature walks, and simply relax at your hotel while enjoying the tropical spirit. You can even go on boat trips in the Indian ocean; you may be able to spot humpback whales, dolphins, blue whales, sperm whales etc. The Sri Lankan cuisine has been largely influenced by the Dutch cuisine, as you will find from the dishes.

    Read more

    02

    Mirissa

    Rock gently in the mild breeze, slip into a hammock and crack open a coconut, assuring that the hours, days or may be weeks’ slip by calmly. That’s Mirrisa or for you! It is a small town located on the Southern Cost of Sri Lanka in the Matara District of the Southern Province. Situated at an elevation of 4 meters above the sea level, Mirrisa lies at a distance of about 240 km from Colombo and 4 km south east of Wligama. It is a small yet quickly developing beach of Sri Lanka.

    Modern resorts envelope the beach and there is a myriad of simple cafes along the sand that may well seem to appear and vanish with the tides. At present, the government is taking measures in context to the sand encroaching constructions and has put an absolute ban on it for the time being however, since the tourists visiting here is rising every year, the ban may soon see a lift. None the less, the beach and the nightlife here make it a prominent tourist attraction. Being a massive fishing port, people swamp in large numbers to fish here.  Other activities common here include dolphin and whale watching.  

    Read more

    03

    Bentota

    Bentota is a Sri Lankan city the name of which is taken from a mythical demon ‘Ben’ who ruled the tota or the river banks. Heading southwards from Beruwela, you reach Bentota. It is situated approximately 62 km south of Colombo. This is an exotic beach located along the Colombo- Galle road. The lagoons here stretch along the beach adding a glimpse of serenity accredited to its archipelago rich in bird life and tropical greenery.  

    The beautiful city is adorned by a serene atmosphere and towering palm trees. Many tourists take the city as a combined excursion with Columbo and Beruwela. Locals from Columbo head to Bentota for an ideal
     weekend getaway. Here, the local population is predominantly composed of the Singhalese Buddhists.

    Bentota is also a fitting hideout for tourists owing to the diverse accommodation options right from resorts to stays keeping in view varying budgets. You can also find a myriad of Ayurveda treatments and umpteen number of water sports and
     adventure activities leaving the adrenaline driven people spoilt for choice. This phenomenal tourist place offers you snorkeling, wind surfing, water skiing on the estuaries or rivers, parasailing, scuba diving along with a host of other activities to keep you engaged. 

    Read more

    The district city of Hambantota is located towards the extreme south of Sri Lanka. The city was completely destroyed by tsunami in 2004, but now it is growing up to be the 2nd major city in Sri Lanka after Colombo. Hambantota is well-known for its biodiversity. There are approximately 20 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the entire Hambantota district. You will encounter a lot of colourful and magnificent birds in the parks and sanctuaries. Not only birds, you will find many other animals which are rare in other sanctuaries. There are some heritage sites too in Hambantota like Buddhist temples and stupas.

    Hambantota, being a city, has a happening nightlife. You can enjoy in one of the many nightclubs and bars like Café Chill Out, various hotel bars, etc. The food in Hambantota is just mouth-watering. You will get to choose from a variety of sea foods like crabs, lobsters, etc. Some of the good restaurants are Bojun Hala, Jade Garden Restaurant, and Sera.

    You must be thinking where to stay in Hambantota. Well, you have a plenty of choices to choose from. The best sea facing hotels are Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort and Spa, Peacock Beach Hotel, Hotel Camellia, and a lot more of them. If you are a shopaholic, you will get a lot of junk jewelleries, fancy showpieces, shells, etc. to buy from the road-sides. There you have malls too to hang out.


    Read more

    Hikkaduwa is a small town in extreme south of Sri Lanka. This is a place with a great beach, perhaps the second best in Sri Lanka. If you love surfing, Hikkaduwa is your paradise. This small town was hit by tsunami in 2004 and was totally destroyed, killing a lot of locals and tourists. There is a tsunami photo museum too which you must visit to see the damages that Hikkaduwa suffered. Since then, it’s re-growing from scratch.

    There are a lot of tourist spots in Hikkaduwa. The beach is the prime attraction. Apart from the sea, there are national parks, Buddhist monasteries, really good restaurants, and many more places to pay a visit. In short, Hikkaduwa is a complete tour package.

    The food in Hikkaduwa is mouth-watering. As it is situated near the sea, you will get great sea-foods in the beach side shacks and restaurants including shrimps, clams, oysters, crabs, octopuses, etc. There are tasty options for the vegetarians too like tropical fruits.

    The nightlife in Hikkaduwa is not much famous. You will get some night clubs and bars in the town but they aren’t that much known. There are a lot of hotels and resorts facing the sea, you can choose one of them for your stay. Your hotel or resort might organise a whole night party on weekends.

    Read more

    Akuressa is a beautiful city situated along the River Nilwala in the District of Matara. It is a commercial hub where many farmers travel to sell rubber, spices, tea, and other foods. Akuressa is surrounded by many small towns such as Pitabaddara, Algeria, Imaduwa, Kamburupitiya, and Makandura. It is rooted in history, tradition, and culture and exhibits a vibrant mash-up of the new and the ancient.

    With lush foliage, tropical climate, abundant flora and fauna, and beautiful tea gardens Akuressa is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. It is also an excellent base for striking out into the wilds and immersing in nature. 
    Akuressa has some of the best tea factories where you can see the tea-making process and know about various tea varieties. If you wish to have an aromatic holiday you can visit the famous spice gardens in Akuressa where scents of pepper, cardamom, cinnamons, nutmeg, and mace will overpower your senses. 

    Your trip to Akuressa won’t be complete if you do not enjoy an enthralling mountain bike ride. You can also hike through the rough terrains and enjoy the magnificent views. 
    Akuressa experiences a tropical climate and the nights are cool and the days are warm. The average temperature ranges from around 30 to 32 degrees Celsius and it receives a good amount of rainfall yearly. 

    Read more
    07

    Kegalle

    Situated on the Colombo-Kandy Road, Kegalle is a large agriculture based town mainly producing rice and rubber. There are few graphite mines in the town. But the main tourist attraction is an elephant breeding park. Apart from this, there are two other organisations working on elephant welfare. Apart from Kegalle, you can visit some nearby destinations like Hikkaduwa and Yala National park. The fantastic place of Kitulgala in Kegalle district is a complete tour package on its own. You can do a lot of water sports in the three rivers of Kitulgala like water rafting, kayaking, confidence falls, etc. Other than these, you can also organise night camps in the jungle. There are a lot of homestays and hotels in Kegalle for your hospitality. Some suggestions for good hotels are Hotel Heshani, Aarya Hotel, Hotel Elephant Bay, Hotel Elephant Lobby, etc. You will also get private resorts in Kegalle like Wijaya Bunglow. The nightlife in Kegalle is not so much famous, it being a suburban. Still you will find some bars and nightclubs in the town like Planters Club. You can have a drink there and enjoy a cosy evening. Are you wondering where to eat in Kegalle? Here are some good restaurant suggestions for you like Channa, a Japanese restaurant; Ambasewana; Ken Food Center, etc. If you love shopping, you will get some malls in Kegalle to satisfy your shopping craves like Athukorala Shopping Centre.

    Read more

    Located towards extreme south in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is a beach city. 108 km south of Colombo, it is one of the major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. The city is rich in biodiversity. Unawatuna is bird-watchers’ paradise. You can spot more than about fifty species of birds there on the Rumassala Hills. The rare birds seen there are a variety of bulbuls, barbets, sunbirds, swallows, crows etc. There are a number of coral reefs too that you just can’t afford to miss.

    If you love scuba diving, or haven’t tried yet, head to Unawatuna to get a lifetime memory. There are a lot of historical places in Unawatuna like museums and temples. A 2300 years old heritage temple is there in the main city of Unawatuna. You must also visit a peace pagoda near the Jungle Beach.  The other adventurous activities that you must try are surfing, water biking, snorkelling, etc.

    The local food of Unawatuna is just delicious. You will get the best of sea foods. There are a lot of beach-side restaurants that offers great food and drinks.

    The nightlife in Unawatuna is not much famous. Small parties are organised by the resorts on the beaches during weekends. Some happening places for nightlife in Unawatuna are Koha Surf Lounge, 680 Blue, etc.

    The other nearby places that you can visit are Dalawla, Thalpe, Weligama, Tangalla, Mirissa and Dondra.


    Read more

    09

    Matara

    Matara is a picturesque city situated on the southern coast of Southern Province in Sri Lanka. It is one hundred and sixty kilometers from Colombo and is the second-largest city in Southern Province. The city is the administrative capital and a major commercial hub of Matara District. River Nilwala cuts through Matara forming panoramic views along its path.

    With its rice paddies, tropical islands, tea plantations, and rugged mountains, Matara is a visual wonderland. Whether you're looking for stunning scenery, the grandeur of colonial-era architecture, or remote cultural immersion the city can cater to all your needs.

    Matara has many attractions like Star Fort and Dondra Head Lighthouse that stand as a testimony to Sri Lanka’s past. You can also visit Polhena beach, which is a popular honeymoon destination. If you’re a spiritual enthusiast you can also visit Weherahena Temple and Matara Paravi Duwa Temple.

    If you’re looking for the best things to do in Matara you can enjoy kite flying at Crow Island and snorkeling at Polhena beach. For an adrenaline rush, you can also enjoy surfing at the Medawatta. Matara experiences tropical weather and a lot of rainfall occurs in May, June, July, April, October, November, August, September, and December. February and January are the best months to go to Matara as the temperature hovers around 22°c.

    Read more

    Weligama is a charming town in Matara District on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Deemed as Sri Lanka’s surf capital, Weligama is closely connected to the surf havens of Ahangama and Midigama. It is situated about four hours southeast of Colombo’s capital and houses the world’s best sea beaches.

    Weligama exhibits an exceptional blend of beach resort and lively fishing town. Tourists from all around the globe visit this town to spend quality time in its soothing and peaceful environment. It's gorgeous, promenades and cobblestoned walks provide the perfect locale for shopping trips, walking tours, and afternoon strolls. Its magnificent sceneries and beautiful beaches are so appealing that you’ll feel like you have entered a heavenly paradise. 

    The quaint town is dotted with some of the most picturesque beaches such as the Midigama beach, Ahangama beach, and Mirissa beach where you can enjoy the sand, surf, and the sun. You can also visit Taprobane island, which seems to be a replica of a movie scene.

    Looking for the best things to do in Weligama? Take a surf lesson on Weligama beach, spend a rejuvenating afternoon at Ahangama’s secret beach or watch the beautiful sunset from the lighthouse.

    Weligama experiences a hot and humid climate throughout the year. A lot of rain falls in the months of May, June, August, September, April, July, November, December, and October. February is the coolest month in Weligama when the average minimum temperature is 23° and the average maximum temperature is 29°.

    Read more
    11

    Koggala

    Koggala is an Instagram-worthy coastal town located on the south coast of Sri Lanka at the edge of a lagoon. It is bounded by a reef on one side, and a large lake on the other side into which tributaries of the Koggala Oya drain. Koggala has earned a reputation as one of the most charming small towns in Sri Lanka. A day trip through the picturesque town reveals waterfalls, lush paddy fields, cave temples, and pepper farms.

    Some of the best places to visit in Koggala include Koggala lake, turtle hatcheries, and Koggala beach. To satiate your spiritual side you can also visit the Kataluva Purvarama Maha Viharaya temple or the Kathaluwa Buddhist temple.

    For an epic Sri Lankan holiday you can enjoy a boat ride on Koggala lake. Art enthusiasts can also head to The Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum where you can get an insight into Sri Lankan culture. Snorkeling and diving are the most popular activities that you must try if you’re visiting Koggala.

    Koggala has a short dry season and the average annual temperature is around 26.4 °C. December to March is the best time to visit Koggala as rainfall is considerably low during this time.

    Read more

    Other Attractions

    If you want to enjoy a sunset dinner at a lovely restaurant then do not miss to visit Mirissa Beach. It is one of those attractions in Mirissa where you can find plenty of great restaurants offering a variety of seafood.

    Although you will find this beach a little crowded yet, it will give you a very relaxing vibe.


    Location: Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

    Timings: Open for 24 hours.

    Price: Visiting Mirissa beach is free of cost. In fact, you can enjoy the Lion beers on free sunbeds at a very reasonable price.

    Best Time to Visit: The beach gets busy from 11 AM so it is recommended to visit this either early in the morning to avoid the crowd or in the evening to enjoy a lovely sunset.

    Distance from Mirissa: Once you reach Mirissa from Colombo, you can easily found this exotic beach as it is only a couple of KM away from the Mirissa railway station.

    Read more

    Relax your senses in the sparkling waters well complemented with a lazy sandy idyll in Unawatuna beach. It was once named the world's best beach by Discovery Channel. One and a half hour drive from Colombo makes it easier for people to reach this beach.

    Highlights: You can indulge in water sports such as diving and snorkelling which will leave you completely thrilled. If you are a keen whale watcher then join the exciting journey of Whale Watching Cruise from Galle to Mirissa fishery port where you will witness the mighty Blue Whale, Humpback Whale, Sharks and Turtles too, which will leave you completely awestruck.

    Remember, there are no ATMs in Unawatuna, the nearest one is Holcim Cement Factory-Commercial Bank.
    Read more
    Have you seen the waves dancing freely? Koggla beach is one such place where you will find a combination of warmth of the golden sand beneath your feet along with sea breeze caressing you. Located 140km from Colombo, this idyllic place is for all the beach lovers to spend some time and enjoy life as they have always wanted to . Leave your care and worries behind and just be a part of some breath-taking moments.

    You will surely treasure some of the fond memories of this beach. Get into the adventurous mood by trying snorkelling and diving. If you are not too fond of adventures you can sit by the beach and enjoy the sight of the mighty waves.

    Highlights: If you are going to Koggala, you can’t miss the chance to visit the Turtle Hatchery which is an initiative taken against selling the turtle’s eggs for the purpose of food.
    Read more

    The Galle Dutch Fort, located in Galle, Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and architectural charm. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort stands as a testament to colonial-era maritime power. Its well-preserved walls enclose a captivating blend of European and South Asian influences, featuring cobblestone streets, impressive ramparts, and picturesque buildings. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural past.




    Read more

    Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sinharaja Forest Reserve (kingdom of the lion), is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. It is home to a vast number of endemic species of birds and mammals of Sri Lanka. About 95 percent of Sri Lankan endemic birds and more than 50 percent of endemic mammals are known to have their habitats in this Forest Reserve. Year round, the forest is covered by plenty of rain clouds. The area span of the reserve is about 21 KM from east-west and about 7 KM from north-south.

     

    Location: Situated in the Southern Province, a two-hour drive from Galle via Galle-Deniyaya-Madampe Highway.

    Highlights: Experience the leisurely pace of wildlife and the splendor of dense and copious evergreen rainforests. The guide will tell you about different endemic species of flora and fauna that you encounter during your guided tour.

    Timings: Opens daily from 6:30 AM to 6 PM

    Price: Approximate price ranges from 664 LKR to 1160 LKR

    Read more

    The Galle Fort Lighthouse, situated within the historic Galle Fort in Sri Lanka, is a picturesque maritime landmark with a storied past. Originally constructed by the British in 1848, the lighthouse stands proudly atop the fort's ramparts, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the charming coastal surroundings. Renovated in recent years, it continues to guide ships and stands as a symbol of Galle's maritime heritage, attracting visitors with its scenic allure.






    Read more

    Jungle Beach in Sri Lanka is a pristine coastal haven, tucked away near Trincomalee. Accessible through lush jungle trails, this secluded paradise boasts golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a serene ambiance. Surrounded by dense vegetation, it offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Jungle Beach is renowned for its untouched beauty, providing an idyllic setting where visitors can relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Sri Lanka's coastline.

    Read more

    Turtle Hatchery was started by the Sri Lankans with a view to protect the turtles from extinction. Earlier, people usually fishermen used to collect the turtle’s eggs and sold it to whoever would pay the higher price. With the commencement of the Turtle Hatchery these eggs were fed and cared for until they were 2 to 4 years old. You can find different species of turtles such as Green Turtle, Leatherback and Olive Ridley. Despite their extinction turtles are still caught by the fishermen for fish and shells which is indeed a very lucrative market.



    Location: 10 to 15 minutes tuk tuk ride south from Bentota

    Highlights: You should visit the Kasgoda Turtle Hatchery where you can spend an interesting time watching the baby turtles grow.

    Things to keep in mind: Avoid disturbing the nesting turtles with light.

    Price: Approximate price starts from 500 LKR.

    Read more

    Standing tall at the south eastern edge of the hill country, Adam’s Peak (7,360 ft) is one of the most striking features in Sri Lanka. Also, this place is a distinguished pilgrimage in Sri Lanka for more than 1000 years. Adam’s Peak is known as Sri Prada and is believed that Lord Buddha left his sacred footprints while heading towards paradise. Poetically this places is called Samanalakande( Butterfly Mountain where the butterflies end their life).

    Read more

    Just unplug yourself from the regular city life and welcome yourself into the world of Weligama, 144 kms south of Columbo where everything is pretty calm and peaceful. Ideal place for city people who would just like to borrow some time and get themselves absorbed in a good book while dipping their toes in water. Modest Weligama often witnesses less foreign tourists which makes this place traffic free. You may find many local women sitting outside their homes with pieces of laces which is considered to be the local speciality of the place since the Dutch times. You can also spot sites of historical importance and some gingerbread villas beautifully adorned with mal lali wooden work which is hard to find anywhere else.

    Highlights:Taprobanea, a small island developed in 1920 by a French man named Maunay-Talvande is quite close to Weligama. You can game up your romance by staying or dining in this beautiful island but only with advance booking.

    Read more

    An extraordinary experience amidst an ordinary setup lies 65 kilometres from Colombo and is named Bentota beach. Soak yourself in the ordinary golden sand while enjoying the marvellous sound of the mighty Indian Ocean crashing against the shores. The mesmerizing view of the sea will leave you speechless. If you are planning to break the monotony of the routine just try your hands at adventure sports found alongside the palm trees.


    Highlights: You can visit Kasgoda Turtle Hatchery and also go on a boat cruise on the Bentota River.


    Getting there: Bentota is very well connected with the cities and is very easily accessible. You can ride from Galle or you can take a ride from Colombo. Bentota is approximately 101km south of the airport from Colombo

    Read more

    An unventured area to watch the beauty of wildlife and bird life, Kumana National Park or Yala East National Park is a great place of natural beauty. Spreading over an area of 35,664 hectares Kumana National Park have around 20 lagoons and reservoirs to sustain wide variety of bird life with over 200 species of birds including migratory and endemic.

    Kumana Villu, a mangrove swamp is sporadically flooded by sea water and supports varied bird activities. A number of threatened reptile species can also be spotted in the park. It also shelters some of the mammals from neighboring Yala National Park.



    Best for: Bird watching around the lagoons and tanks.

    Location: Ampara district. 391 Km away from Colombo

    Best time to visit: April to July.

    Price: Full Day Safari price is LKR 12,000 per jeep. Ticket price is LKR 2,000/LKR 1,000 per adult/child.

    Timing: Full Day Safari 5.30am to 06.00pm
    Read more

    A chance to connect with the mighty ocean is the Dondra Head Lighthouse. The coconut trees, Bougainvillea flowers and soft breeze blowing all around is the place for this mighty Lighthouse. This lighthouse was built during the Colonial times and was hence formerly known as Ceylon.. It is one of the four international lighthouse in Sri Lanka. People have to climb 196 steps to reach the top of it.The serenity of the lighthouse is far removed from the regular hustle and bustle of the city.


    Read more
    One of the finest and most traditional Tourist attractions in Galle which is worth to visit and admire is the Galle Fort. The Dutch Reformed Church is the ancient building located in the premises of the fort. The building’s date goes back the 18th century during the Dutch period.

    A walk through the Fort ground along with the humble caretaker, immersing in his never-ending fancy stories will take you back to the era whence it was built. The Church is also known as Groot Kert.



    Highlights: Many tombstones dating back to the 17th can be observed; this church also is a Cruciform with shorter transepts separated by two arches. The floor is marked with gravestones. The beautiful pulpit made from Malaysian wood, calamander is a beautiful sight and near to the pulpit is the memorial of De Ly Family.

    Location: Church Street, Galle fort

    Timings: 9 am to 5 Pm
    Read more
    After a tiresome day, if you wish to end it with some peace and watch the sun set on the horizon, hear the seagulls beckoning you and also observe the waves crash the rocks forming a soulful music then Galle Flag Rock Bastion is where you need to go.  The Flag Rock an ex-Portuguese Bastion, situated at the southernmost end of the Galle Fort, today is a popular destination for tourists to witness the sunset. This Rock was a natural defence center during the Dutch period, from where ships were alerted about dangers lurking and also from the unseen rocks underwater by firing Musket shots from the Pigeon Island.



    Location: Rampart St. Galle 

    Highlights:
    Scenic surrounding; to your west, you will be able to locate the lighthouse and the Gunpowder Museum opposite to the Meeran Masjid.
    Read more
    Home to a number of vibrant and colourful birds, the Bundala National Park in Sri Lanka is one of the favourite destinations for bird watchers all around the world. The park spans across an area of 6216 hectare within which it shelters around 200 different bird species out of which more than 50 are migratory bird species.

    The topography is an amazing combination of scrubs, marshes, lagoons and sand dunes. Almost every species of water birds can be found in the park most of which are attracted to the lagoons.



    Best for: Watching wide assortment of bird species and their activities around the four lagoons.

    Location: 251 Km from Colombo

    Best time to visit: September to March.

    Price: Morning & Evening Safari price is LKR 7,000 per jeep. Ticket price is LKR 2,000/LKR 1,000 per adult/child.

    Timing: Morning Safari from 5.30am to 09.30am and Evening Safari from 2.30pm to 06.00pm.
    Read more

    For all those times when you need a little introspection, nobody minds a carefree walk on the sandy beaches of Induruwa which has been blessed with an absolute quietness with respect to commercial cities. If you are too tired then it is best for you to lie in the sand and take a sunbath making yourself feel completely relaxed.

    Read more

    Plunge into the waters and leave all your worries at bay. The Dickwella beach is primarily dominated by reefs, headland and sand bars which makes it the most appropriate place for swimming. Situated at a distance of 220 kms from colombo, Dickwella beach has housed the largest seated Buddha statue. This has made it the most visited place for all the Buddhist worshippers. The ideal time to visit this place is May, June and July when festivities are in the air and the residents are busy celebrating festivals of Wesak, Poson and Esala. Particulary this place has many temples on its way which gives it a religious bent. The Dickwella beach is an ideal place for many swimmers as it is an extremely safe and calm beach.


    Highlights: Wewurukannala Vihara which has 50 m high seated Buddha. You can also spot the eye arresting hall of horrors where you can see models of both demons and sinners being severely punished by dipping in hot waters.

    Read more
    Peradeniya Gardens is a spacious 147 acre of natural extravaganza consisting of more than 4000 species of plants, and 10,000 varied kinds of trees, incidentally serves as the largest garden of Sri Lanka. The unique and rarest collection in these gardens is the Giant Bamboo of Burma which grows 12 inches each day to a height of 40 meters. Apart from this other amazing collections include Javan fig tree, Cannonball tree, Double Coconut Palm and about 200 other varieties of palm trees and versatile collection of flora. 



    Highlight:  
    One can pack some food to enjoy an open air picnic here or can relish the cafeteria inside serving local and western cuisine. The Peradeniya Botanical Garden is one prime tourist attraction of hill country and remains quite flooded with tourists every weekend. 

    Timings
    : Opened daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM

    Price: Approximate price starts from 2353 LKR for adults and 1177LKR for child
    Read more
    Even a 90 year old will feel young as he steps onto the beach of Hikkaduwa,98 kms from Colombo. The charm of the hippy mood will get into your blood, making you feel completely carefree. You will find predominantly young and independent travellers walking on the beach.

    This beach is one of the lesser spoilt destinations in Sri Lanka which is why it is an ideal place for people who want to try something off beat. You will also find coral gardens which are considered to be one of the much appreciated beauty of these beaches which was once completely eroded due to tsunami.



    Highlights: The beach should be ideally visited during the Hikkaduwa beach fest which usually takes place during the month of July and August. This fest is conducted in an attempt to revive the charm of hippy culture. Surfing, diving and snorkelling are some of the other attractions which the beach offers.
    Read more

    People Also Ask About Southern Province Sri Lanka

    1. Which are the best places to visit in Southern Province Sri Lanka with family?

      1. Mirissa: If powdery white sandy beaches and turquoise beaches are what you crave, head to Mirissa, a picturesque coastal town known for its hippy laid back vibe, and whale-watching tours. Swaying palms, shimmering waters, fiery sunsets, and golden beaches are some of the things that make Mirissa a tropical paradise. 

      2. Bentota: 
      Bentota is a beautiful resort town renowned for its dazzling marine life and tall coconut palm trees. Golden sandy shores and calm waters make Bentota a favorite destination for water sports like motorboating, jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. 

      3. Hambantota: 
      If you’re looking for one of the most family-friendly destinations in Hambantota you must head to Hambantota. Famous for its rich biodiversity, this region houses approximately twenty wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Bundala National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Hambantota where you can see several rare flora and fauna.

      Also Checkout: Sri Lanka Trip

    2. Which are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka?

      1. Ella: If you want to witness the countryside charm you must head to Ella, a small-town village situated in the central highlands. You can see floating clouds here, colorful butterflies, rustlings of the nearby forest, and the steam coming off a train. It has the Ceylon tea factory where you can embark on a tasting tour.

      2. Adams Peak: 
      Adams Peak is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot situated in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. It is believed that Adam first stepped here when he was cast down by God from heaven. The peak holds great spiritual importance as it is also believed that Buddha last stepped from the earth over here before reaching Nirvana.

      3. Nuwara Eliya: 
      This is a nineteenth-century hill station often referred to as the mini London of Sri Lanka. It has Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, beautiful waterfalls, a racecourse, excellent trout fishing rivers, and lakes, and Victoria Park.

      Must Checkout: Honeymoon Packages of Sri Lanka

    3. How to reach Galle?

      By Air: Galle doesn’t have an airport so you can fly to Colombo and take a train or bus to Galle.

      By Train: Galle is connected to Sri Lanka through Sri Lanka’s Coastal Railway Line. Galle railway station is a prime stop for trains running on the south coast and west of Sri Lanka.

      By Bus: Galle is connected to cities like Colombo and Bentota with a good network of buses.

    4. What is Southern Province Sri Lanka famous for?

      • Beaches: Most of the beaches like Tangalle, Koggala, and Tangalle are located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. 
      • Matara: It is one of the best beach towns in Sri Lanka.
      • Kumana National Park: Get ready for an authentic jungle experience at Kumana National Park that is famous for its avifauna. 
      • Asmi: This is a yummy snack that is made with rice flour, coconut milk, and cinnamon leaves.
      • Ceylon tea: This is a delicious tea that is produced in Sri Lanka.

        You May Also Checkout: Sri Lanka Family Holiday Package
    5. What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

      December to April is the best time to visit Sri Lanka as the weather remains pleasant and comfortable and you can partake in sightseeing without any problem. At this time all the big parks are open and due to the dry weather animals gather around water holes, making it easier to spot them.
    6. What are the best Sri Lanka tour packages that we can book with Thrillophilia?

    Newly Added Southern Province Sri Lanka Experience
    Excellent
    It was a luxurious experience all together. Great food & drinks with extremely beautiful views of the sea.
    Vasudev Singh Yala Safari: Day Tour
    Superb
    Enjoyed a thrilling wildlife adventure safari tour in Yala National Park, which has the highest density of Leopards including Sloths bears & elephants.
    it was a wonderful experience, firstly, we felt very safe, all safety regulations were adhered to, there was no overcrowding etc.
    28 June 2018
    Excellent
    Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Excellent
    "Our tour guide was dimendu, a very helpful person"

    Popular Nearby Places Around Southern Province Sri Lanka

    Places to Visit in India

    Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
    Currency Picker
    Commonly Used Currencies
    INR -
    Indian Rupee
    USD - $
    United States Dollar
    EUR -
    Euro
    SGD - $
    Singapore Dollar
    AUD - $
    Australian Dollar
    GBP - £
    British Pound
    AED - د.إ
    United Arab Emirates Dirham
    All Other Currencies
    ALL - L
    Albanian Lek
    AMD - դր.
    Armenian Dram
    ARS - $
    Argentine Peso
    AWG - ƒ
    Aruban Florin
    BBD - $
    Barbadian Dollar
    BDT -
    Bangladeshi Taka
    BMD - $
    Bermudian Dollar
    BND - $
    Brunei Dollar
    BOB - Bs.
    Bolivian Boliviano
    BSD - $
    Bahamian Dollar
    BWP - P
    Botswana Pula
    BZD - $
    Belize Dollar
    CAD - $
    Canadian Dollar
    CHF - CHF
    Swiss Franc
    CNY - ¥
    Chinese Renminbi Yuan
    COP - $
    Colombian Peso
    CRC -
    Costa Rican Colón
    CZK -
    Czech Koruna
    DKK - kr.
    Danish Krone
    DOP - $
    Dominican Peso
    DZD - د.ج
    Algerian Dinar
    EGP - ج.م
    Egyptian Pound
    ETB - Br
    Ethiopian Birr
    FJD - $
    Fijian Dollar
    GHS -
    Ghanaian Cedi
    GIP - £
    Gibraltar Pound
    GMD - D
    Gambian Dalasi
    GTQ - Q
    Guatemalan Quetzal
    GYD - $
    Guyanese Dollar
    HKD - $
    Hong Kong Dollar
    HNL - L
    Honduran Lempira
    HRK - kn
    Croatian Kuna
    HTG - G
    Haitian Gourde
    HUF - Ft
    Hungarian Forint
    IDR - Rp
    Indonesian Rupiah
    ILS -
    Israeli New Sheqel
    JMD - $
    Jamaican Dollar
    KES - KSh
    Kenyan Shilling
    KGS - som
    Kyrgyzstani Som
    KHR -
    Cambodian Riel
    KYD - $
    Cayman Islands Dollar
    KZT -
    Kazakhstani Tenge
    LAK -
    Lao Kip
    LBP - ل.ل
    Lebanese Pound
    LKR -
    Sri Lankan Rupee
    LRD - $
    Liberian Dollar
    LSL - L
    Lesotho Loti
    MAD - د.م.
    Moroccan Dirham
    MDL - L
    Moldovan Leu
    MKD - ден
    Macedonian Denar
    MMK - K
    Myanmar Kyat
    MNT -
    Mongolian Tögrög
    MOP - P
    Macanese Pataca
    MUR -
    Mauritian Rupee
    MVR - MVR
    Maldivian Rufiyaa
    MWK - MK
    Malawian Kwacha
    MXN - $
    Mexican Peso
    MYR - RM
    Malaysian Ringgit
    NAD - $
    Namibian Dollar
    NIO - C$
    Nicaraguan Córdoba
    NOK - kr
    Norwegian Krone
    NPR - Rs.
    Nepalese Rupee
    NZD - $
    New Zealand Dollar
    PEN - S/
    Peruvian Sol
    PGK - K
    Papua New Guinean Kina
    PHP -
    Philippine Peso
    PKR -
    Pakistani Rupee
    QAR - ر.ق
    Qatari Riyal
    RUB -
    Russian Ruble
    SAR - ر.س
    Saudi Riyal
    SCR -
    Seychellois Rupee
    SEK - kr
    Swedish Krona
    SLL - Le
    Sierra Leonean Leone
    SOS - Sh
    Somali Shilling
    SVC -
    Salvadoran Colón
    SZL - E
    Swazi Lilangeni
    THB - ฿
    Thai Baht
    TTD - $
    Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
    TZS - Sh
    Tanzanian Shilling
    UYU - $U
    Uruguayan Peso
    UZS - so'm
    Uzbekistan Som
    YER -
    Yemeni Rial
    ZAR - R
    South African Rand
    JPY - ¥
    Japanese Yen
    VND -
    Vietnamese dong