Top 10 spots to visit in Sri Lanka

18 Best Things To Do In Southern Sri Lanka 2024

Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Table of Contents

Why Southern Sri Lanka Should Be on Your Bucket List

Before we jump into our list of must-do activities, let’s talk about what makes southern Sri Lanka so special:

  • Diverse Landscapes: From golden beaches to lush rainforests, the south has it all.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: Ancient temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant local traditions await.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Home to elephants, leopards, and various marine life.
  • Culinary Delights: Spicy curries, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits to tantalize your taste buds.
  • Warm Hospitality: Sri Lankans are known for their genuine friendliness and welcoming nature.

Now, let’s dive into the best things to do in southern Sri Lanka!

What are the best things to do in southern Sri Lanka?

  1. Hang out with rescued elephant babies
  2. Explore Sri Lanka’s colonial splendour
  3. Explore the mediaeval colonial Galle Fort
  4. Hike to the Japanese peace Pagoda
  5. Visit the most sacred multireligious temple in the country
  6. Sample delicious seafood
  7. Take a closer look at blue whales
  8. Things to do in southern Sri Lanka: Diving
  9. Enjoy a brilliant bargain massage
  10. Watching leopards in the Yala National Park
  11. Take a River Safari at Madu Ganga
  12. Visit the Mulgirigala Raja Maha Vihara
  13. Explore the Madunagala Hot Springs
  14. Take a Cooking Class in Hikkaduwa
  15. Discover the Matara Dutch Fort
  16. Visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda
  17. Take a Stilt Fishing Tour in Ahangama
  18. Surf the Waves in Weligama
  19. Relax on the Beaches of Unawatuna
  20. Experience Tea Culture in Handunugoda
  21. Indulge in Water Sports at Bentota
  22. Explore the Sinharaja Forest Reserve
  23. Discover the Mask Culture in Ambalangoda

As far as natural beauty is concerned, southern Sri Lanka is still ahead of most other Sri Lanka places and it is very appealing to tourists around the world. Things to do in southern Sri Lanka are endless, from sunbath to sea bath and visiting the temples to Sri Lankan jungle tours to explore wildlife.

Palm-fringed beaches and the coastal belt of southern Sri Lanka make it a perfect playground for a memorable Sri Lanka beach tour. The lush green forests, never mind the wildlife reserves teeming with leopards, elephants and many other creatures—not only that, but the cultural diversity is also a major hot topic—but electrifying modern city culture has always been a bit harder to find, though it is confined to few places.

Peel yourself off, lie on a sunbed and sip a glass of Arrack cocktail while basking in the sun or take a stroll around the mosaic-cobbled streets of Galle Fort. If you like to see the religious side of the people of Sri Lanka, drop into Kataragama temple to see how people march in a queue to offer their fruit plates to the might God, known as Murugan (but don’t forget to cover up).

Sri Lanka’s southern coast provides a fascinating blend of tourist attractions, therefore, it is perfect for any type of Sri Lanka holiday package. It is perfect for kids, teenagers, as well as adults of any age. It means the Southern coast can accommodate Sri Lanka family tours, adventure travellers, honeymooners, leisure travellers and nature lovers.

9 Best Things To Do In southern Sri Lanka
Yala National Park is one of the best places to sport Sri Lankan wildlife, and it is included in most Sri Lanka trip packages, such as the Sri Lanka 5-day southern tour.

1. Hang out with rescued elephant babies

Udawalwe elephant transit camp is the second of its kind on the island (the first elephant orphanage on the island started in Pinnawala, Kandy) and it is the first elephant orphanage established in southern Sri Lanka. This fabulous tourist attraction offers an antidote to most toxic tourist attractions on the island that involved animals. Udawalawe elephant transit camp is a popular one-day outing place for Sri Lankan travellers and can be easily reached from most hotels on the island.

No one is allowed to have elephant rides in this jungle hideaway; Instead, the visitors can witness the frolicking little jumbos from the distance. The visitors can witness the orphan elephant only during the feeding time, during which elephants show up for their dose of milk. The orphan elephants are fed 5 times a day, make sure you arrive at the orphanage ahead of the feeding hours.

If you are wondering where to get more information on the Elephant transit camp, please click, “Udawalawe elephant safari“.

Things To Do In southern Sri Lanka
Dutch reformed church of Galle fort, which is more than 250 years old

2. Explore Sri Lanka’s colonial splendour

Galle is one of the most popular tourist places in Sri Lanka and it is a popular spot for Sri Lanka day trips from most parts of Sri Lanka, such as Negombo, Colombo and Bentota beach. If you need more information about Galle one-day tour, please click on “Galle city tour‘.

Many thousand years ago, foreign merchants arrived from across Arab, China, Greece and India to Galle in order to buy spices, gems and ivory from Sri Lankan kings. Later, from 1505 to 1948, the southern coast, including Galle, was in the hands of colonial rules from Portuguese, Dutch and English, respectively. During the colonial era, foreign rulers had a monopoly over the spice trade, therefore, local people were deprived of the benefits of a lucrative spices industry.

3. Explore the mediaeval colonial Galle Fort

The foreign rulers anchored on the Sri Lankan shores from 1505  to 1948 and deposited their religions, customs, languages, native architecture, customs and cuisines. The best colonial remnant can be witnessed in the old town of Galle, better known as Galle Fort.  The narrow-cobbled streets are flanked by thousands of Dutch-style houses, shops, churches and, many other buildings. A walking tour of the Fort is the best way of exploring this 15th-century old European city. 

Insider tip: The Galle Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site and the most important tourist hotspot in southern Sri Lanka. Thousands of tourists stop by this old Dutch town every day because it is the best-preserved Dutch-built fort in Asia. The Dutch fort offers opportunities for shopping and dining. You’ll find thousands of shops, galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants, museums and fruit stalls offering many interesting things, such as clothing, souvenirs, woodcarvings, tea, jewellery and antiques.

In order to have a more detailed picture of Galle fort and Galle, please read my article on “Galle Fort“.

Must-do activities in Galle Fort:

  • Walk the ramparts at sunset for breathtaking ocean views
  • Visit the iconic Galle Lighthouse
  • Explore the Dutch Reformed Church
  • Shop for local handicrafts and gems in the boutique stores
What are the 9 best things to do in southern Sri Lanka?
Japanese peace Pagoda

4. Hike to the Japanese peace Pagoda

Sitting on the highest mountain along the beaches of Galle, Ruhmassala Japanese peace temple is not foreign to the citizen of Sri Lanka. The beautiful temple commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle and the Indian Ocean. The temple is a hotspot for Japanese travellers. And it is included in most Day tours to Galle from Colombo. 

Insider tip: The hike to the temple may last about 30 minutes if you opt to go on foot and the narrow road that leads to the temple is very steep in some places. Therefore, it is recommended to hire a TUK TUK from the main, which saves a lot of time and helps to reach the temple without a long walk. It is easy to get a TUK TUK for the ride as a large number of TUK TUK drivers are waiting near the main road expecting travellers. The cost of the ride is around 500 Rs. 

Kataragama temple
Kataragama temple

5. Visit the most sacred multireligious temple in the country

Perhaps the spiritual side of Sri Lanka’s southern coast is not known to foreign travellers, that’s why most travellers miss Kataragama temple. Although not many foreigners visit Kataragama Temple, it is very well-liked by Sri Lankans.

There are thousands of cultural places sprinkled across Sri Lanka. The temples in the cultural triangle, in the north-central province, are the most popular religious sites on the island, while temples elsewhere do not get the attention of foreign travellers. However, the temple of Kataragama has many thousands of years old history, which is on par with its counterparts in ancient cities pertaining antiquity.

Insider tip: Kataragama temple is located near Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka. Tissamaharama is the gateway to Yala national park. The temple receives a large number of devotees every day, and on long weekends the number of devotees is usually doubled. Temple is open only during the pooja (ceremony) hours.

My article on Kataragama temple gives you more details about this historical religious site, please click “Kataragama temple“.

Sea food plate sri lanka
Seafood plates many varieties of fish, such as Tuna fish, crabs, shrimp, cuttlefish, etc

6. Sample delicious seafood

Eating delicious seafood is a must if you head on to southern Sri Lanka because the fishing industry is playing a major role in southern Sri Lanka’s economy and a large number of people are actively engaged in the fishing industry. It is very easy to get hold of various fish for delicious meals on the southern and western coast, especially in the resort areas. Hundreds of seafood restaurants line up along the coastal belt on the southern and western coast and offer delicious seafood specialities.

Insider tip: Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota are the most popular beach resorts on the western and southern coasts.

7. Take a closer look at blue whales

Sri Lanka is one of the most popular places in Asia to spot blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus). The whales can be spotted in the ocean around the island throughout the year.

Whale watching is one of the very popular activities on the island of Sri Lanka. Mirissa of southern Sri Lanka is especially popular among travellers as one of the best destinations for whale watching. There are about 80 different species of whales in the sea; out of that 80 species, the travellers can witness twenty-six species of whales in Sri Lankan waters. Sri Lanka is one of the few countries where travellers can witness the biggest creature in the sea and the biggest land animal in the world in a short interval. Southern Sri Lanka is an ideal destination to watch both Elephants and whales in Sri Lanka.

Mirissa off the southern coast is the most popular whale-watching spot on the island. A dozen whale-watching boats set sail daily from the Mirissa harbour, each of them carrying about 75 foreign travellers with them.

In the Ocean around Sri Lanka, especially in Mirissa, it is very easy to spot blue whales due to the large concentration of them. Mirissa is a popular place that is included in most Sri Lanka trips, such as 4-day Sri Lanka trips.

Insider tip: All whale-watching boats leave the harbour before 06.30 to 07.00 AM Passengers should show up in the harbour before 07.00 AM. A prior reservation is very important to get a seat in a whale-watching boat because every boat can accommodate only a limited number of passengers (75). Due to the high demand, most boats get filled up a few days ahead of the trip.

If you are wondering how to get more information about the Sri Lanka whale watching trip, read my article, “Blue whale watching Sri Lanka“.

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8. Things to do in southern Sri Lanka: Diving

Diving around the lurching coral stacks, exotic sea creatures, ancient shipwrecks, and swimming with sea turtles of Unawatuna bay is one of southern Sri Lanka’s most bewitching experiences. A large number of local tour operators offer boat tours, diving, and snorkelling tours to travellers at an affordable rate.

Insider tip: Diving, snorkelling and other saltwater-based activities are available only during the peak season, From November to April. During this period, the sea off the south coast becomes very calm, the sea looks like a lake, and the water visibility is also at its best.

Learn about diving in Sri Lanka by reading my article “diving in Sri Lanka“.

9. Enjoy a brilliant bargain massage

Health tourism has been able to make huge progress over the last several years. The traditional healing system of Sri Lanka is known as “Ayurveda”. The root of Ayurveda goes back more than 5000 years, and it has been widely practiced among the local people.

A large number of Ayurveda hospitals, and massage parlours, are dotted along the coastal belt and serve the locals as well as foreigners. If you are not staying in an Ayurveda resort and not in the mood to go to the city and look for a massage parlour, ask the receptionist, where the Ayurveda healing centre is. Usually, every tourist hotel has its own Massage centre to serve the in-house customers. The therapist is well trained and speaks English very well. 

Various massages are on offer in hotels as well as massage parlours. However, 1-hour full body masse with sauna is the most popular among the travellers, which lasts around 1 hour and costs US$ 20 per person.

Insider tip: The guests need to remove all the jewellery and ornaments during the massage.

Learn about Sri Lanka Ayurveda treatment and about Ayurveda hotels in my article under the heading “Sri Lanka Ayurveda holidays “.

10. Watching leopards in the Yala National Park

Wildlife You Might See:

  • Leopards (Yala has one of the highest leopard densities in the world!)
  • Elephants
  • Sloth bears
  • Crocodiles
  • Various bird species

Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose a reputable tour operator like Serendipity Tours that prioritises animal welfare and conservation.

The 4-hour Yala safari introduced you to Sri Lanka’s biggest carnivore, the leopard. The chances of spotting leopard are very high at Yala national park due to the large concentration of this big cat. Yala is one of the best places for wildlife tours in Sri Lanka, where the travellers encounter elephants, leopards, crocodiles, wild buffalo, bears, deer and many other creatures.

However, spotting leopards is the main reason for travellers to visit the Yala national park. Yala national park is one of the best places to see the natural beauty of Lanka. Yala is a place where nature appears to have been supersized—gigantic trees, grass fields and lakes as big as cities.  

Yala is another popular place for Sri Lanka wildlife safari for travellers, who spend a beach holiday on the south and west coast.

Insider tip: Yala Safari is mainly available in 2 flavours, half-day Yala safari and full-day Yala safari. It is recommended to take full-day Yala safari if it is possible because it heavily increases the opportunity to see leopards and other animals.

Now you can book a Yala Safari day tour from Colombo as well as a Yala Safari 2-day trip from Colombo and a 3 day Sri Lanka tour with Yala Safari and the south coast. Read my article on Yala safari and get to know the most essential information about Yala safari, “Yala safari“.

11. Take a River Safari at Madu Ganga

End your southern adventure with a serene river safari on the Madu Ganga.

What to Expect:

  • Mangrove forests
  • Over 200 species of flora and fauna
  • Visit to a cinnamon island
  • Traditional fishing village

Eco Adventure Tip: Look out for water monitors and various bird species along the way.

12. Visit the Mulgirigala Raja Maha Vihara

This ancient Buddhist temple complex offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage.

Highlights:

  • Cave temples with well-preserved murals
  • Reclining Buddha statues
  • Panoramic views from the top

Cultural Note: Remember to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering temple areas.

Learn about the Madu Ganga wetlands

13. Explore the Madunagala Hot Springs

Soak your worries away in these natural hot springs.

What to Know:

  • Seven springs with varying temperatures
  • Believed to have therapeutic properties
  • Surrounded by lush vegetation

Wellness Tip: Combine this with a visit to a local Ayurvedic spa for a full relaxation day.

14. Take a Cooking Class in Hikkaduwa

Bring a taste of Sri Lanka home with you by learning to cook local dishes.

Typical Class Includes:

  • Market visit to select fresh ingredients
  • Hands-on cooking of 4-5 dishes
  • Feast on your creations

Foodie Tip: Learn to make your own coconut sambol – it’s delicious and easy to recreate at home!

15. Discover the Matara Dutch Fort

Often overlooked, the Matara Fort offers a quieter historical experience compared to Galle.

Points of Interest:

  • Remains of the original star fort
  • Dutch Reformed Church
  • Scenic riverside location

History Buff Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Star Fort for a full historical experience.

16. Visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda

Contribute to conservation efforts by visiting a sea turtle hatchery.

What to Expect:

  • Learn about different turtle species
  • See turtle eggs and hatchlings
  • Possibly participate in a turtle release programme

Ethical Travel Note: Choose a hatchery with good conservation practices and avoid any that exploits turtles for tourism.

17. Take a Stilt Fishing Tour in Ahangama

Witness the unique tradition of stilt fishing, an iconic image of Sri Lanka’s south coast.

Experience Includes:

  • Watch local fishermen demonstrate this centuries-old technique
  • Try your hand at stilt fishing (with guidance)
  • Learn about the history and challenges of this fishing method

Photo Op: Sunrise or sunset offers the best light for photography.

18. Surf the Waves in Weligama

Weligama, meaning “sandy village” in Sinhalese, is a surfer’s paradise. With its gentle waves and sandy bottom, it’s the perfect spot for beginners and intermediate surfers alike.

Why Weligama is great for surfing:

  • Long, wide beach with plenty of space
  • Consistent waves year-round
  • Numerous surf schools and board rental shops
  • Vibrant beach culture and laid-back vibe

Best time to surf: The main season runs from November to April, but you can surf year-round.

19. Relax on the Beaches of Unawatuna

Unawatuna is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, with its crescent-shaped bay, golden sand, and calm waters perfect for swimming.

Things to do in Unawatuna:

  • Snorkel or dive to explore vibrant coral reefs
  • Try water sports like jet-skiing or banana boat rides
  • Visit the nearby Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya, an ancient rock temple
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants

Local secret: Head to Jungle Beach, a hidden cove nearby, for a more secluded experience.

20. Experience Tea Culture in Handunugoda

Visit the Handunugoda Tea Estate, famous for its virgin white tea and low-grown black teas. Learn about the tea-making process, from plucking to processing, and enjoy a tasting session with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Don’t miss:

  • The unique “virgin white tea” process
  • A guided tour of the tea factory
  • Tea tasting session with various flavors
  • The on-site tea museum

21. Indulge in Water Sports at Bentota

Bentota is the water sports capital of Sri Lanka, offering a wide range of activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Popular water sports in Bentota:

  • Jet-skiing
  • Windsurfing
  • Banana boat rides
  • River safaris on the Bentota River

Adventure tip: Try parasailing for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline.

22. Explore the Sinharaja Forest Reserve

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lowland rainforest is home to a vast array of endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Highlights of Sinharaja:

  • Guided nature walks
  • Birdwatching tours
  • Waterfalls and natural pools
  • Chance to see rare endemic species like the purple-faced langur

Discover Sinharaja’s unique ecosystem

23. Discover the Mask Culture in Ambalangoda

Ambalangoda is famous for its traditional mask-making industry. Visit a mask museum or workshop to learn about the cultural significance of these intricate masks and watch artisans at work.

Things to do in Ambalangoda:

  • Visit the Ariyapala Mask Museum
  • Watch a traditional mask-making demonstration
  • Purchase authentic masks as souvenirs
  • Attend a Devil Dance performance if available

When to Visit Southern Sri Lanka

The best time to visit southern Sri Lanka depends on your priorities:

  • December to April: Peak season with the best weather, but also the busiest and most expensive.
  • May to August: The southwest monsoon brings rain, but it’s less crowded and prices are lower.
  • September to November: A good balance of weather and crowd levels.

Getting Around Southern Sri Lanka

  • Tuk-tuks: Great for short distances
  • Rental scooters: Offer flexibility, but be cautious on busy roads
  • Private driver: Comfortable for longer journeys
  • Trains: Scenic option for travelling along the coast

Travel Tip: The famous Colombo to Matara train offers stunning coastal views.

Getting Around Southern Sri Lanka

  • Tuk-tuks: Great for short distances
  • Rental scooters: Offer flexibility, but be cautious on busy roads
  • Private driver: Comfortable for longer journeys
  • Trains: Scenic option for traveling along the coast

Travel Tip: The famous Colombo to Matara train offers stunning coastal views.

Responsible Travel in Southern Sri Lanka

As you enjoy this beautiful region, remember to travel responsibly:

  1. Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
  2. Choose eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators
  3. Support local businesses and artisans
  4. Be mindful of water usage, especially in rural areas
  5. Avoid single-use plastics

Conclusion: Your Southern Sri Lanka Adventure Awaits!

There you have it—15 incredible experiences that showcase the best of Southern Sri Lanka. From historical wonders and wildlife encounters to culinary adventures and pristine beaches, this region offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and excitement.

Remember, while this guide covers the highlights, the real magic of Southern Sri Lanka lies in its warm people, unexpected discoveries, and the laid-back tropical vibe that permeates everything. So, pack your sense of adventure, bring an open heart, and get ready to fall in love with the endless charms of Southern Sri Lanka.

Whether you’re watching the sunset from the walls of Galle Fort, spotting elephants in Yala, or learning to cook the perfect curry, your journey through Southern Sri Lanka promises to be filled with unforgettable moments and experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

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