Fascinations

Unique Sri Lanka

Paradise is still the most commonly used word to describe Sri Lanka – a lush, tropical island of golden beaches and brilliant blue waters. Famed for the amazing diversity of cultures, natural beauty of the landscape and a complex history stretching back to 543 BC, Sri Lanka truly is a unique country – a land like no other.

Sri Lanka, with its ancient civilization, position at the crossroad of the East and the West with its multicultural society, celebrate a wide variety of unique festivals, ceremonies and events. It is home to world heritage sites such as Galle, Kandy, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla cave temple and many more breathtaking locations

Tourists traveling to Sri Lanka can choose between a variety of activities from lazing on the beach to diving in among the coral reefs and observing the wildlife to exploring ancient temples and ruins. Travel to Sri Lanka with Unique Paradise Travels and experience an enchanting journey of discovery full of memories that will last a lifetime.

“The Island of Sri Lanka is a small universe containing as many variations of culture, scenery and climate as some countries a dozen times her size…”

(Sir Arthur C Clarke)
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Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. The ancient rock fortress and palace of Sigiriya(in 475AD), currently standing in ruin, still has magnificent opulence that is surrounded by beautiful gardens, reservoirs and other structures and attracts large influx of tourists visiting Sri Lanka. The Sigiriya rock also known as “Lion’s rock” and remains today a UNESCO world heritage site.

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Kandy

Kandy

Kandy is the home to the Royal Palace and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, which houses the holy relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Kandy becomes highly crowded during the month of August due to the “Kandy Esala Perehera” which is hosted as an annual tradition of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. There are some other attractions such as the spice gardens, Pinnawela Elephant orphanage, Mahaweli River and the famous Peradeniya Gardens the largest botanical garden in the country.

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Galle

Galle

Galle is well known for its cultural value and scenic beauty is located to the south of Colombo. The city offers a great combination of European architecture along with Sri Lankan culture and heritage. Among the prominent places in the Galle town are the Galle Fort, the longest bridge of Sri Lanka, Galle cricket Stadium, and the “Gin Ganga” to name a few. The other places you must visit in Galle are Unawatuna Bay, which provides safe swimming and snorkeling well popular among the tourists.

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Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura

The historic city of Anuradhapura is an essential stop on any tour of Sri Lanka. This city, located around 205 kms north of Colombo, is one of eight World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The ruins of Anuradhapura are one of South Asia’s most suggestive sights. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders: soaring brick towers, ancient pools and crumbling temples, built during Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Today several of the sites remain in use as holy places and temples; frequent ceremonies give Anuradhapura a peaceful & lovely view all the time.

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Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa

The second city listed in Sri Lanka’s long line of kingdoms, Polonnaruwa became the kingdom in 1070 AD after the fall of Anuradhapura. This city is the western point of the Cultural Triangle. Among its many attractions, the Parakrama Samudra (sea) is a landmark. Created by King Parakramabahu, it is the largest man-made rainwater reservoir in the country.

There are many carvings in the city among the fascinating ruins, including a 16m carving of Buddha, all of which can be viewed. There are also some ancient Hindu temples in the ruined city.

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Cave Temple Dambulla

Cave Temple Dambulla

Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is situated in the central part of the country. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160 m over the surrounding plains. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. Major attractions are spread over five caves, which contain statues and paintings. From the caves there are superb views over the surrounding countryside. Sigiriya is clearly visible some 20km distant.

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Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve

Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve

Walk through the green canopy while experiencing the magnificent wild life, breathtakingly beautiful streams, rivers, flora and fauna. It is of international significance and has been designated a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A visit to Sri Lanka’s last undisturbed virgin rain forest will give you a lifetime experience. Located in South-west of Sri Lanka it covers an area of 23000 archers. This wet evergreen forest is home to thousands of endemic plants and animal species. It is found that the 75% of the plants are endemic in Sinharaja.

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Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Massif or the Knuckles Mountain Range is part of the Hill Country of Sri Lanka which is also above 3000 Ft or 915 Mts. The reason to call it Knuckles is because, there is a mountain with five peaks in itself, that looks like the knuckles of a clenched fist when seen from Kandy area. The entire area is characterized by is often robed in thick layers of cloud. In addition to its aesthetic value the range is of great scientific interest. It is a climatic microcosm of the rest of Sri Lanka as the conditions of all the climatic zones in the country are exhibited in the massif. At higher elevations there is a series of isolated cloud forests.

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Negombo

Negombo

Only 10 minutes’ drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport. Negombo offers some of the better beaches on the west coast of Sri Lanka, and draws tourists who stop over for a day on their way to or from the airport. Some quiet stretches of the beach are maintained by the tourist hotels, while others are always busy with fishermen and their equipment. Water-sports and diving are also popular among visitors, with a few well-preserved coral reefs and a 50-year-old shipwreck (Kudapaduwa) that serves as an artificial reef for many varieties of fish. "Mora Wala" and "Beach Park" of Negombo are also very interesting places among visitors.

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Ambalangoda

Ambalangoda

Ambalangoda beach is located at a distance of 86 km from Colombo. Ambalangoda has a beautiful white sandy beach. A large number of tourists visit the magnificent beachside of Ambalangoda every year to spend some time in the lap of nature. The town is also renowned for the manufacture of wooden masks and puppets.

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Arugambay

Arugambay

Arugam Bay is situated on the Indian Ocean in the dry zone of Sri Lanka's South-East coast. The Bay is located 220 km due East of Colombo. It is a popular surfing and tourist destination. Beach with its coral reef being home to an abundance of tropical fish affords delightful snorkeling opportunities. Arugam bay is the Ideal place for Surfers, Watersports freaks and wildlife aficionados.

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Bentota

Bentota

Bentota known for its broad golden beaches is situated in the southern coastal zone of Sri Lanka, a mere one & half hour drive from Colombo. If the idea of a vacation calls to mind an image of lazing around on the beach. It is a destination for watersports. Bentota also delivers an ancient art of healing called Ayurveda. Bentota is famous for its toddy production, an alcoholic beverage made out of coconut nectar. It also has a turtle hatchery, located on Induruwa beach.

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Beruwala

Beruwala

One of the longest beaches in Sri Lanka located 60 km South of Colombo. The starting point of the 130 kilometers (81 miles) long stretch of beach. The bay around remains ideal for bathing almost for the whole year. The beaches good for swimming and there is always a breeze, making even a mid-day stroll very pleasant. Close by is also has a turtle hatchery and if you are lucky you may spot one of these slow and gentle creatures.

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Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa

Just an Hour drive from the Capital Colombo, Hikkaduwa is famous for its beautiful beach and corals and serves as a popular place to snorkel, surf and simply enjoy the sun. Having a reputation for a vibrant nightlife, the town attracts many party goers annually for the "Hikka Fest" which consists of weeklong parties along the beach. Hikkaduwa is also famous as a surfing destination internationally. You can enjoy diving amongst famous ship wrecks.

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Mirissa

Mirissa

Mirissa is the largest fishing port on the south coast and is known for its tuna, mullet, snapper and butterfish. It is situated at an elevation of 4 metres (13 ft) above the sea level. Mirissa beach and night life make it a popular tourist destination. It is also a fishing port and one of the island's main whale and dolphin watching locations. Its breathtaking sandy beach pretty much transforms your dreams and visions of a tropical paradise into an everyday reality.

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Unawatuna

Unawatuna

Unawatuna beach, a crescent shaped shallow beach situated further south to the famous town of Galle and its famous harbor and towering roomassala mountain. It is protected by a natural reef from the open sea and due to the semicircle shape of it forms a perfect natural swimming pool with aquamarine colour gentle waves crashing on the golden sandy beach. Also famous for its amazing exotic beach parties, and is a great escape if you’re looking to soak up the sun, dive amongst the corals.

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Weligama

Weligama

Located on Sri Lanka's picturesque South Coast, Weligama still offers the charm of an idyllic fishing village while providing excellent accommodation choices, catering for all budgets and needs. Enjoy walks along uncrowded beaches, still untouched by mass tourism and be fascinated by the famous stilt fishing men. Weligama is also recognized for its beeralu lace-making. First introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th century lace-making has remained a traditional handicraft along the coastal area of Weligama.

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Passikudah

Passikudah

Pasikuda beach, recognized as one of safest beaches in Sri lanka is very famous among the travelers who travel around the sri lankan tourism areas. It is located in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. The nearest city is Batticloa. Throughout the year the beach is fully crowded with travelers from all around the world. The sea is visualized with crystal clear water. Foreign travelers never miss this beach as it is known as an ideal destination for a sea bath.

Visitors are walking kilo meters in to the sea because the sea is not compared toh other beaches of Sri lanka.They play, scream and entertain themselves in the beach. Even small children can dive in the sea.

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Trincomalee

Trincomalee

Trincomalee Beach is historically significant as many travelers like Ptolemy and Marco Polo have arrived here. It became an important destination for East Asian and Chinese sea traders at one point of time. The mention of this sea port is found in Mahavamsa. Foreign powers like the Dutch, French, English and Portuguese have fought for the mastery of this harbor.

The Trincomalee Beach is popularly known as Trinco. Tourists in Trincomalee Beach can engage in recreational activities like scuba diving, fishing, surfing etc. Whale watching is an added attraction of visiting this beach. Trincomalee Beach/Bay is also known as an excellent spot for sea bathing in Sri Lanka. The Pigeon Islands and hot springs located in Kanniya are important tourist attractions near Trincomalee Beach in Sri Lanka.

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Bundala

Bundala is internationally important wintering ground for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka. Bundala National Park is a fantastic maze of waterways, lagoons and dunes that glitter like gold in the dying evening sun. This wonderland provides a home to thousands of colourful birds ranging from diminutive little bee-eaters to memorably ugly open-billed storks. Bundala harbors 197 species of Birds, the highlight being the Greater Flamingo, which migrate in large flocks. Spread an area of 6216 that consists of mainly of dry thorny scrublands, marshes and four brackish lagoons. The terrain is generally flat with sand dunes bordering the coastline.

Bundala
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Minneriya

Located between Habarana and POLONNARUWA, the 8890 hectares of MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK is an ideal eco-tourism location in Sri Lanka. This national park is one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers, and wading birds. Dominated by the ancient Minneriya Tank, the park has plenty of scrub, forest and wetlands in its 88.9 sq km to also provide shelter for toque macaques, sambar deer, buffalo, crocodiles and leopards.

Minneriya
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Udawalawe

Udawalawe National Park lies on the boundary of Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, in Sri Lanka. Udawalawe National Park is located approximately 200 km south-east of Colombo city and is a major eco-tourism destination in Sri Lanka. Its surrounding community offers a regally splendid experience for each visitor. Apart from the primary attraction, that is the Udawalawe National Park teeming with an abundance of exalting wildlife, the area includes several other attractions such as mesmerizing ruins, bungalows, and posthumously significant modern establishments such as the reservoir and hydroelectric power plant.

Udawalawe
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Wilpaththu

Wilpaththu is situated in the northwest of the island, close to Puttalam, Kalpitiya and Anuradhapura. It is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest parks and arguably one of the most spectacular. Dense scrub jungle and dry zone forest opens onto villus, small lakes, surrounded by grassy plains. The park also borders the coast where you can see the remains of Queen Kuweni’s palace, which is thought to date from ancient times. The biggest draws in Wilpaththu are Leopards and Sloth bears. Alongside these, it is possible to see Asian Elephants, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Pig, Asiatic Buffalo and Mugger Crocodiles.

Wilpaththu
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Yala

National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka. The park consists of five blocks. It is situated in the southeast region of the country, and lies in Southern Province and Uva Province. The park covers 979 square kilometers (378 sq mi) and is located about 24km northeast of Tissamaharama and 300 km (190 mi) from Colombo. You can witness the wonder of Sri Lankan Wildlife at the in Park, a sprawling paradise of birds, reptiles, leopards and more.

Yala
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Horton Plains

This is a protected area in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is covered by montage grassland and cloud forest. This plateau at an altitude of 2,100–2,300 meters (6,900–7,500 ft) is rich in biodiversity and many species found here are endemic to the region. Large Savannah plains, Waterfalls, High pure water, Forests and several natural and high eco diversity areas are available to visit at Horton Plains. In this case real meaning of this name is a Large Plain. This area is high more than 2300m above from sea level. A lot of rivers of Sri Lanka are started from Horton plains. Water of this place is very cold and very pure. Every day we can see many foreigners come to this place and search animals.

Horton Plains

Hiking and Trekking

Do you enjoy hiking in rain forests? Or do you like more of trekking on a tea trail? Whichever is your preference, Sri Lanka has the variety of your hiking and trekking needs covered. From wilderness regions, national parks to hill country and mountains in a cooler climate, this island has got them all.

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Canoeing and Kayaking

Canoeing and Kayaking

With many rivers and swamps to choose from, those interested in canoeing and kayaking can enjoy the scenic beauty while on water at some of the hot spots such as Kalu Ganga, Samanala wewa and other reservoirs and tanks that allow for a unforgettable experience.

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Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater Rafting

White water rafting is a popular recreation in Sri Lanka, where the rivers flow with a healthy flow of water, welcoming your group. Kithul Gala is one of the popular places to go rafting, while Mahawela River and Kotmale River are some of the other choices.

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Mountain Biking & Cycling

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Sri Lanka’s land is so diversified that a true mountain biker or cyclist can truly enjoy themselves in the small narrow paths leading to paddy fields in the town areas against more challenging biking on mountains in the hill country or tropical rain forests to name a few options available.

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Camping

Camping

If you want to move away from the norm of holiday making and do something more adventurous with the safety of a camp, then this is a choice available to you and your family. Be it to dream under the stars, enjoy the greenery or hear the sounds of the forest animals calling your inner souls, we’ve got them all covered.

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Aboriginal Tribe

Aboriginal Tribe

The indigenous people of Sri Lanka, also known as the ‘Vedhdhas’ line in their own village in Dabana. Going back in time where civilization as we know it didn’t exist is an amazing experience one can enter to by spending time with these natives.

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Turtle Watching

Turtle Watching

Many visitors come to Sri Lanka for the distinct reason of having 5 out of 7 sea turtlee which come ashore the Sri Lankan beaches. Kalpitiya and Rekwana are the most popular turtle watching areas while turtle hatchery is also an important part of preserving the sea turtles.

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National Parks

National Parks

Blessed with 15 national parks, home to a variety of wild life, one of the must sees in Sri Lanka is to visit them. Most of the known and visited parks are Yala, Udawalawe, Wilpattu and Gal Oya.

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Whale and Dolphin Watching

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Come to Mirissa and Kalpitiya and say hello to the Whales and Dolphins roaming around the sea in these areas. A popular destination for Blue Whales and playful Dolphines, watching these sea animals in their natural habitat, appearing to greet you is truly once in a lifetime experience.

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Fishing

Fishing

Although Sri Lanka is surrounded by the ocean, fishing is not considered a major passtime or hobbie by the locals. However, a visit to the fishing villages and getting a first hand experience with the local fisherman will help you get in touch with the heart of the community.

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Hot Air Ballooning Tours

Hot Air Ballooning Tours

Riding on a hot air ballon and overlooking this gorgeous island will truly be an amazing experience. There are services provided in the country to view different parts of the island, watching the susnset in the air and land to a scrumptious breakfast with a glass of champagn to celebrate.

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Bird Watching Tours

Bird Watching Tours

Kumana and Wilpattu are two major bird sanctuaries in Sri Lanka and known to be many bird fans choice of destinations to visit. Carry you camera and patience and await some of the fascinating birds in Asia, especially during the migrating seasons.

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Off Road 4WD Adventures

Off Road 4WD Adventures

Want to go for an expedition on wheels? That's exactly what you'll find in these 4 wheel drive adventures, be it on the beach embracing the sea breeze, crossing the streams in forest or climbing up or downhill on a mountain. Stictly for the adventurer at heart.

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Standard and Luxury Camping

Standard and Luxury Camping

Is it that you want adventure with a touch of luxury? Yes, that is possible in Sri Lanka, Go camping without ever having to let go of all the luxuries at a hotel, with comfortable bedding, delicious meals and movable camps so that you can explore the places you want while getting the well deserved vacation.

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Photography and Filming Missions

Photography and Filming Missions

Sri Lanka is known for many photographers and film makers both locally and internationally as one of the places with the right scenic beauties or rare moments with nature that you may want to capture in your lense. These missions can be arranged with an experienced tour operator such as ours, to help you get the best out of your t

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Rain Forest Exploration

Rain Forest Exploration

Sinharaja is one the largest and well known rain forests in Sri Lanka and Asia. Many travellers come here for the experience of exploring these rain forests which is rare in the world. Go back in time when man was known to live one with nature.

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Wildlife Safaris

Wildlife Safaris

Whether you want to enjoy seeing wild animals in their natural habitat with your family or you want to spend time to study and enjoy this rare experience, here you can do them all at the national parks and forest reserves. See how animals, birds together with flora and fauna live in harmony.

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Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Sri Lanka is all about nature and one can enjoy this not only in the nature reserves and parks but also in the hill country, low country and in bewteen where natural trails pass through paddy, trees and fascinating creatures.

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Surfing

Surfing

Surrunded by the vast Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka's got several areas where the surfer in you can enjoy. Be it small waves for beginners or fast and higher constant wave for the professional, these seas will not dissapoint you. Hikkaduwa, Arugam Bay and Unawatuna are some of the popular surfing spots.

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Windsurfing

Windsurfing

Head over to Bentota and let the wind drift you away while being tied to a speed boat. Watch the beautiful blue ocean around you and you'll have an experience you'll never forget.

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Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

There are several beaches in Sri Lanka that allow for snorkelling and scuba diving in Sri Lanka, main locations being Arugam Bay, Nilaveli and Trincomalee beaches. You may bring your gear or rent with guidance to help you get the maximum out of this.

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Helitours & Air Taxi

Helitours & Air Taxi

If you don’t want to spend most of your vacation travelling to the destination, then you can make use of the optional transportation mode on air. There are several air taxi's in Sri Lanka which will take you to your destination in a fraction of the time, so you spend more time enjoying.