West Coast

Ariyapala Mask Museum:

Ambalangoda is where the mask carvers and puppet makers predominate. The Ariyapala Mask Museum exhibits traditional Kolam and Thovil masks some of which are rare and date back centuries.

Bentota:

Bentota is blessed by the lazy waters of the Bentota River, ideal for watersports and boat trips. Its broad sandy beach with gently-shelving sands offers safe swimming, making it one of the most appealing Sri Lankan destinations for a traditional family holiday with a choice of excellent accommodation in all categories.

Hikkaduwa:

The characterful town of Hikkaduwa attracts budget and independent travellers, and generally a younger crowd. Its simple but decent restaurants, beach bars, and beachside nightclubs gives it something of the mood of a resort in Goa or Bali. The best surfing spots in Hikkaduwa are in Wewala. Narigama is good for body surfing. Surf boards, gear, and even clothing can be sourced from Hikkaduwa.

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery:

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery plays a vital protective role for the turtles that lay their eggs on the beach annually, and is well worth a visit. The conservation project is an ideal way to learn and observe this endangered species.

Kalu Ganga:

The Kalu Ganga begins its journey to the sea on the western slopes of Adams Peak, Sri Lanka's holy mountain. The divine waters flow slowly west, its banks lined with jungle, rubber plantations and communities using the river in their daily lives. Exploring the backwaters by canoe or boat - a haven for birdlife - is magical.

Lunuganga:

Lunuganga: Set on the edge of Lake Dedduwa, Lunuganga is a Renaissance-inspired tropical garden and plantation house, which was the former country residence of Geoffrey Bawa. Step inside the private life of the man dubbed “the father of Asian architecture.” The Lunuganga gardens have numerous plants, pavilions, and statues. Its exquisite bedrooms and suites are offered to guest for just four months of the year from December to April. For the rest of the year it is handed back to the Bawa Trust and is used as an artist’s retreat. For a similar outing, consider Brief Gardens - a 25-acre estate which was the lifelong work of the celebrated landscape artist Bevis Bawa.

Richmond Castle:

Explore Kalutara’s colonial past with a visit to the Richmond Castle, an old spice-plantation mansion which can be reached by canoe down the old Dutch canals.

Malli’s Seafood Restaurant

This well-established restaurant has long been popular due to its arty brickwork walls, relaxing atmosphere and mouth-watering fresh seafood dishes (opposite EKHO Surf hotel, Beach Road, Bentota 80500, 0778 514 894)

Happy Garden Restaurant

Happy Garden Restaurant – a charming, intimate restaurant with a laidback atmosphere and views of the railway line and ocean beyond. Happy Garden’s grilled seafood, traditional rice and curry and fresh tropical fruit are highly praised by all who dine there (Beach Road, Bentota 80500, 0777 047 689)

Amal Villa Restaurant & Bar

Amal Villa Restaurant & Bar – has a lively atmosphere, pleasant décor and the choice of indoor or outdoor dining. A highlight of your experience here is hand-picking your seafood (135 Galle Road, Bentota 80500, 0779 793 471)

Rock Villa

Rock Villa – an idyllic garden setting and exquisite food, a meal here is worth the slightly higher price tag (Nileesgewatte Road, Bentota 80500, 0112 340 033)