A scattering of rain forests in Sri Lanka
Rain forests of the world vitally contribute to the existence of planet earth and to support its survival. Rain forests depleted from the face of the earth at an alarming rate due to illicit felling and logging. The remaining 6% too is under the threat of being wiped away completely. Rainforests in Sri Lanka are protected by law to preserve them for beauty, bio-diversity and for the mandatory requirement for cleaner air. All of Sri Lanka’s rainforests are situated in the wet zone areas due to the abundance of rainfall the regions receive during the year. The south-western part of the island contains these rainforests of highly stable eco-systems. The forest canopy consists of more than 150 varieties of trees. The emergent layer represents tall trees that reach up to 148ft. Unique endemic plants and species are found in the spell-bounding Sri Lankan rainforests and prepare yourself for a magical journey through them to explore and experience an amazing adventure of your lifetime.
The highest density of amphibian population in the world is found in Sri Lanka and most of them live in these rain forests. 2.14% of Sri Lanka’s land area is covered with lowland rainforests. Sinharaja Forest Reserve is the most significant rainforest of the island, an internationally reputed Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. Translates as Kingdom of the Lion, the hilly virgin rainforest is a national park and a bio diversity hotspot for all nature lovers. It has a thick vegetation that houses endemic species of plants, flowers, trees, birds, mammals, insects and reptiles. Described as a tropical lowland rainforest or a tropical wet evergreen forest, Sinharaja has lofty dominant trees with straight boles to characterise its special features. A high degree of endemism exists among butterflies, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Rainforests of Sri Lanka also act as crucial catchments areas for rivers. Bambarabotuwa, Morapitiya Runakanda, Gilimale and Eratne are some of the other forest reserves of the country. Peak Wilderness Sanctuary rainforest that covers the Adams Peak mountain area is another outstanding nature reserve. Rainforest exploration is a fascinating and an awe-inspiring holiday activity enjoyed by many who visit this paradise of an island.
Ayurveda and Yoga in Sri Lanka
The science of life or Ayurveda is an ancient system of traditional medicine and the oldest healing science, native to India. The Indian Vedic scriptures are the earliest known literature on medicinal practices in the world and the current Ayurveda practices in India and Sri Lanka derives from this holistic background. The curative art of Ayurveda in Sri Lanka is used to prevent and heal diseases and bring relief to mind and body. Through the understanding of the connection between mind and body this ancient healing practice balances the well-being of both by focussing on their health and condition. Ayurvedic massages, baths, beauty treatments and herbal medication are sought by many people across the globe and Ayurveda in Sri Lanka provides authentic remedies for all those who want to experience the healing powers of this timeless practice.
Also originated in India is the sacred practice of Yoga. Its ultimate goal is to attain physical, mental and spiritual discipline and is associated with Hindu, Jaina and Buddhist meditative practices. Yoga in Sanskrit means union; indicating uniting with our highest nature. Poses of yoga dating as far as 3rd millennium BC were discovered at the Indus Valley. Greatly regarded in India and Sri Lanka as a form of meditation, exercise and discipline, it is one of the many secrets of the East to discover on the island. Yoga is used to improve health, a tranquil state of mind and an advanced spiritual insight. It is known to increase flexibility of the body and improve stamina. Yoga retreats and centres for teaching this practical philosophy are famous in Sri Lanka. Yoga in Sri Lanka is not only an activity that attracts many visitors but it is a revered practice that is known to benefit people in every area of their life.
Its profound influence refreshes your mind, body and soul equally. Yoga improves your sleep, relieves the body of pain and gives you revitalizing energy. The self discipline gained by practicing yoga is considered one of the highest forms and often leads to a better understanding of the spiritual life. Ayurveda and yoga remain the two most valuable physical and spiritual discoveries to be made on the mystical paradise of island Sri Lanka.
Fauna banquet of Sri Lanka
Although small in its size, Sri Lanka has one of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world. 16% of that being fauna. With 15 national parks to its name, Sri Lanka’s wildlife makes a spectacular showcase of raw natural beauty. Conservation of this amazing wildlife dates back to 3rd century BC that had the earliest known recorded protected reserve in Mihintale. Sri Lankan Fauna is a truly remarkable experience to discover the spirit of the wild. The largest and the best known of the Sri Lankan wildlife is the Asian Elephant. Most of the elephants live in the national parks across the country, famously in Yala, Wilpattu, Udawalawe and Wasgamuwa. The leopard population in Sri Lanka is considerably significant with Wilpattu National Park being world renowned for a large number of leopards and Yala National Park claiming the highest leopard concentration in the world.
Varieties of deer too roam the wooded landscapes and national parks of the country, most frequently sighted being the Sambar deer and spotted deer. Sri Lanka is an ideal birdwatcher’s paradise that gives you abundant of sightings of fascinating birds in all types of environments. Over 400 varieties of birds are seen on the island with over 200 resident and 26 endemic birds. Kumana bird sanctuary in the Kumana National Park is renowned for spotting migratory waterfowl and wading birds in staggering numbers. Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve, Adam’s Peak Wilderness Sanctuary and Bundala National Park are among the best areas for sighting birds. The most visited national park of the country, Yala, is also one of the 70 Important Bird Areas in the country. Here you will come across six of the famous endemic birds, including the Sri Lankan jungle fowl.
The Red Faced Macaques are also commonly seen in all parts of the island with their inquisitive and playful presence. The Indian Mongoose, Sloth Bear, Water Buffalo, Land Monitor, Komodo dragon, golden jackal and wild boars are among Sri Lanka’s regularly seen fauna. The Horton Plains National Park and the Knuckles Mountain Range Nature Reserve are two other stunning places to see Sri Lankan wildlife in all its glory. Wildlife safaris make great expeditions to witness the plentiful and enthralling life that makes the Sri Lankan wilderness much more intriguing.
Golf in Sri Lanka
Unknown to the world yet surprisingly, Sri Lanka has three of the finest 18-hole golf courses in Asia. Located in Colombo, Digana and Nuwara Eliya the world-class golf greens are namely The Royal Colombo Golf Club, Victoria Golf Club and The Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. Golf in Sri Lanka is a much relaxing and a refreshing experience in all three locations. While the cool climate of Nuwara Eliya with its high altitude provides different terrains and golfing conditions, Digana in Kandy offers a different experience with the lush green landscapes and breathtaking views. Just minutes away from any luxury hotel in Colombo, the Royal Colombo Golf Club is prestigious in its presence and immaculate in its flat course.
The Victoria Golf Club is a 517 acre landscape that has tree-lined fairways and an undulated terrain. Designed by the British golf architects Donald Steel & Co, it has the most stunning vistas of the Victoria Reservoir and the surrounding mountain, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in Asia. Established in the 19th century, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is also reputed as one of the finest in the region with its long and narrow fairways and hilly terrains. Golf in Sri Lanka is a unique experience and the varying locations that the courses are situated in, offer you many facets of Sri Lanka. The Royal Colombo Golf Club is another 18-hole golf course in the heart of Colombo that provides the superior golfing facilities and broad fairways. The clubhouse is complete with a coffee shop, dinning room and spacious foyers. This is the second oldest Royal Golf Club outside the British Isles, the oldest being the Royal Calcutta Golf Club in India.
Whether you are a professional golfer, a keen enthusiast or just taking a break from your professional duties, golf in Sri Lanka is a must-try to discover the pleasures of expecting the wonderfully unexpected. With Paradise Ceylon, experience the ultimate golf destinations in the country and golf based holidays and accommodation. We contribute to making golf in Sri Lanka an activity known to the world as a truly exceptional one.
Water Sports
The island of Sri Lanka is a perfect destination for watersports of all kinds, with the surrounding Indian Ocean and a network of gushing rivers across the inland. From surfing to kayaking, your options for the thrill of a splash never end. Sri Lanka is a year-round surfing destination that offers world-class surfing spots on the southwest coast and the east coast. Arugam Bay of the East coast is an internationally acclaimed surfing destination, which also hosts a world surfing competition annually. Whether you are just a beginner or an expert, there is always a wave to catch on the Sri Lankan coast.
Hikkaduwa on the southwest coast is another popular location for not just surfing but also for snorkelling and scuba diving. Hikkaduwa reefs are a magnificent underwater sight, accompanied by colourful tropical fish and old ship wrecks. November to April is the best period for west coast diving and snorkelling while April to September is the ideal season for East coast when the waters are at their calmest. Snorkelling around the Pigeon Island off Nilaveli beach in Trincomalee of the East coast during this period is an excellent choice. Water skiing and windsurfing are too available on the Sri Lankan coast for all those who are looking for an exhilarating water-based experience. With the help of a professional fishing tour company you are all set to escape into your best angling experience ever. Get read for deep sea and inland fishing expeditions in Sri Lanka with the numerous reservoirs, waterways, lakes and of course the spectacular sea.
Kayaking and canoeing are popular inland watersports in Sri Lanka. Kalu Ganga of the western province and Samanalawewa reservoir of the Sabaragamuwa province provide the best setting for these river activities. Not only are they ideal for canoeing but they also offer pretty sights of a great number of picturesque flora and fauna. Plenty of birds are seen in and around the area, creating a haven for birdwatchers too. White water rafting is another exciting inland watersport. Kalani River in Kitulgala is the premier white water rafting destination in Sri Lanka. You can find instructors and essential gear and equipment at places where they guide your watersport activities.
Waterfalls
The sight of a mesmerising waterfall cascading down dramatic mountain slopes is still a mystical wonder for all of us. Blessed with 103 rivers starting from the central highlands, flowing down hilly slopes and rocky precipices creating the most picturesque waterfalls, the island has over one hundred of the nature’s most fascinating phenomenon.
Bakers Fall
Discovered by Sir Samuel Baker, this scenic waterfall is located on the way to the World’s End in the Horton Plains. Its water comes from Belihul Oya and is set amidst the backdrop of a mountain terrain and deep valley.
Bambarakanda Fall
Although not often visited, this is Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall measuring to a height of 263 metres. Just four miles from the Colombo-Bandarawela road, the waterfall is nestled in a forested landscape.
Bopath Falls
A favourite among many Sri Lankans, it is found 15km from Colombo-Ratnapura road. Formed by a tributary of Kalu Ganga, it gets its water from Kuru Ganga. The water falls in the shape of a sacred fig tree leaf and thereby gets its name. It is the most comprehensively studied waterfall in Sri Lanka and is a major tourist attraction.
Diyaluma Fall
Cascading from 220 metres above, this can often look like the highest waterfall in the country but it is the second highest. The water it spills comes from Poonagala Oya in the vicinity of Koslanda and Wellawaya. During the rainy season, great volumes of water spills down from the fall monotonously undisturbed. It is considered the most scenic waterfall in Sri Lanka.
Dunhinda Fall
The smoky spray of this magnificent waterfall makes it another popular attraction in the country. Dunhinda is situated 10km from Badulla town in the Uva Province and you will encounter another smaller fall called Kuda Dunhinda, a minor version of the main Fall. The misty vapour from the Fall is an enchanting experience for all those who visit it. A clear pathway is available to reach the waterfall.
Devon Fall
Set in the hills of Nuwara Eliya, Devon is between Thalawakele and Hatton in the Devon estate. Two other spectacular falls, Sr. Clairs and Radalla Falls are too located in close proximity to Devon. Named after a pioneer coffee planter of the colonial Lanka, it is a famed attraction among locals and visitors alike.Bundle of Beaches
Sri Lanka is known to have some of the best beaches in the region and is considered the most captivating attraction amongst all. The island nation is surrounded by the shimmering blue Indian Ocean, which multitude of people can’t get enough of. The coast of Sri Lanka contains the most stunning beaches you could ever find and they combine sun, sand and waves perfectly for an ideal holiday. The warmth of the waves and the delight of the sea spray remain throughout, leaving you breathless at the magnificent sunsets. Starting from the south-west all the way to down south, a world renowned bundle of beaches in Sri Lanka await you. Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Bentota, Weligama and Tangalle have world-class beaches to match all your holiday plans in Sri Lanka.
The East coast too has outstanding beaches to offer from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay. Arugam Bay is one of the best surfing destinations in the world with plenty of other watersport possibilities. Trincomalee or often known as Trinco have white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters. Snorkelling at Nilaveli beach of Trinco is a top activity not to be missed. Hikkaduwa is the most popular diving and snorkelling spot in the country. The spectacular coral reefs, varieties of tropical fish and ship wrecks in the area make all undersea adventures worth every dive. The fishing town of Weligama with its sandy bay also provide ideal snorkelling and diving opportunities. Unawatuna beach is another remarkable place to be on a Sri Lankan beach holiday, and it is considered one of the top ranking beaches of the world. It is a fantastic swimming, diving and snorkelling base with a spectacle of views all around.
Ancient maritime city of Galle is another beautiful beach destination that not only is scenic in its views but also important in its historical heritage. The Dutch Galle Fort is a World Heritage Site and a place to marvel the colonial legacy. Dondra Point of down south is a perfect spot for whale and dolphin watching. Sightings of sperm whales, blue whales and spinner dolphins are frequent in the area. Kalpitiya too is an amazing spot for seeing dolphins and for diving and snorkelling with easy access to the largest coral reef in Sri Lanka.
Skydiving and Paramotoring
If you are up to one of the most heart-racing adrenaline rush sports in the world that has excitement-satisfaction all through, do not miss out on skydiving in Sri Lanka. One of the many recreational sports millions of people across the globe enjoy, Paradise Ceylon offers skydiving in picture perfect locations around the island. If you are a first time diver, you can take lessons and instructions from a skydiving centre for a safe and enjoyable skydive. For typical jumping in the sport, small aircrafts, helicopters and gondola of balloons are commonly used. An altitude of 1000 to 4000 metres is used for the jump. The parachute is deployed immediately at a low altitude while a free fall for a short time is involved before activating the parachute, at higher altitudes. The free fall is considered one of the best lifetime experiences in extreme sports. Sri Lanka has many ideal skydiving spots that give you absolutely stunning views from up above as you descend.
Despite the nature of the sport, skydiving is a safe activity. Avoiding risks and taking precautions is vital for a safe dive. You can find fine weather in all parts of the island for a great skydive throughout the year. Areas that avoid canopy collisions and other risk factors are chosen carefully by Paradise Ceylon. Night skydiving too is popular in Sri Lanka. Paramotoring is another type of airborne sport available in Sri Lanka from Paradise Ceylon. It is not just a stimulating sport but a thrilling method to appreciate the lush landscapes of the island. There are many stunning locations to embark on your paramotoring adventure in Sri Lanka. Proper training and high quality paragliders and equipment will be provided to maximise safety and comfort. If you did not expect to find these exhilarating sports in Sri Lanka, you are in for the most pleasant surprise. Sri Lanka offers many elating watersports, land based sports and air based sports to your hearts content. Find everything you want to do on your holiday including skydiving and paramotoring in Sri Lanka with Paradise Ceylon and discover this amazing land and its wonderful possibilities.
Mountain Biking / Trekking / Hiking
Among the many ways to explore Sri Lanka, cycling is probably one of the most active ways. Mountain biking on the lowland and hilly trails can keep you fit while you get to experience the beauty of the land in a most revitalising way. There are many interesting trails that cross the lowlands through rubber, tea and spice plantations and even through ancient capitals of the north central region. The central hills offer steeper trails with dramatic views for more experienced cyclists. Whichever you choose mountain biking in Sri Lanka is an invigorating experience.
Hiking and trekking in Sri Lanka too are adventurous ways to discover the diverse and extraordinary landscape of the isle. These stimulating hiking and trekking tours take you through jungles, paddy fields and up mountains and hills. Belihuloya of the hill country makes an excellent base to start out your hiking and trekking adventure. The Horton Plains National Park is a hiker’s paradise, which offers you breathtaking views, magical waterfalls, fascinating wildlife, forest patches, grasslands and high altitude vegetation. The mysterious World’s End with its 880 metre drop is a spot you should look forward to encounter during the hike.
If you love to trek through a tropical rainforest on the island, there is no better way to do it than by choosing Sinharaja rain forest. You can find all types of trails and customise your trekking according to you and your group’s requirement and fitness level. This is a great opportunity to witness the life and the living breathing unique nature of a rainforest. The Adams Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is another amazing destination for hiking. By starting the ascend during night and reaching the summit at sunrise you can witness a truly inspirational nature moment. The Knuckles Mountain Range in the central hills with its five major forest formations offers an ideal hiking ground. The region is famous for its huge variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna. The multitude of trails takes you through crystal clear rivers, dense forests, numerous waterfalls and tea plantations. Bandarawela of the Badulla District too provides stunning hiking and trekking trails through its mountain terrain. Ella, Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock and Namunukula mountain range are attractions of Bandarawela for some of the best hiking and trekking experience in Sri Lanka.
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