Things to do
Colombo
Colombo is a lively city full of markets, museums, cafés, and seaside promenades, perfect for a day or two of wandering! You will fly into Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, around 40 mins away from the city. Pettah Street Market A maze of vibrant streets, Pettah Market is the heartbeat of Colombo. Don’t miss the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque here (Red Mosque), a true Colombo landmark. Colombo Dutch Hospital One of Colombo’s oldest colonial buildings, now transformed into a chic dining and shopping precinct with cobbled streets and open-air courtyards. Eat at Ministry of Crab for fresh, locally sourced Sri Lankan dishes. Galle Face Green Colombo’s iconic oceanfront promenade, perfect for a stroll, flying kites, or watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Grab a thambili and street snacks as you soak in the sea breeze and watch locals enjoy the space. For a special treat, pop into the nearby Galle Face Hotel for a Lion Beer by the ocean, it’s a classic Colombo experience
Kalutara Bodhiya
A beautiful Buddhist temple just 15 minutes from Wadduwa. It’s peaceful, set right by the river, and an easy place to pop into if you’re exploring the area. A lovely spot for a quiet walk and a bit of local culture. Tips If you are going, please dress appropriately (shoulders and knees should be covered), and please remove hats and shoes when entering the temple area.
Bolgoda Lake
A really peaceful freshwater lake about 45 minutes North of Wadduwa. It’s great for a relaxed boat ride, spotting birds, or just hanging out by the water with a drink at one of the lakeside spots. Perfect if you want a break from the beach without going too far. Tips Late afternoon is the nicest time to visit as it is cooler and great light for photos. Mosquito spray is a good idea if you’re staying near the water around sunset. Some places require advance booking for boat rides
Galle Dutch Fort
A stunning UNESCO World Heritage site about two hours south of Wadduwa. Wander along the ramparts, explore charming cafés and boutiques, and take in ocean views from the lighthouse. Galle Fort blends colonial history with a relaxed coastal vibe - a beautiful spot for a day trip from somewhere along with South Coast, or even 2-3 nights on the way there to break up your journey. From Galle Fort, you can drive down to Unawatuna Beach or Jungle Beach for a swim. Galle Fort Cooking Class Learn to make Sri Lankan rice and curry with Sanju. It’s a fun, immersive way to experience local flavors and culture, and you get to enjoy everything you cook! Call or WhatsApp +94 77 366 9787 to book. Ropewalk Housed in a beautifully restored 300-year-old Dutch colonial mansion, Ropewalk is Sri Lanka’s first-ever arrack-specialty bar. Pedlar’s Inn Gelato Milani's favourite! This cosy little gelateria serves rich, handmade Italian-style gelato in both classic and tropical Sri Lankan flavours.
Mirissa
One of our absolute favourite beaches in Sri Lanka. It’s a bit of a drive from Wadduwa, but totally worth it for the soft sand, turquoise water, and the super relaxed vibe. Great for swimming, grabbing a coconut at a beach café, or spending a slow afternoon by the ocean. Doctor's House Matara This is a 200-year-old Dutch Ayurvedic hospital, now turned into a bar and hotel, with a lush garden. Great for a laid-back vibe, good food, drinks, and live music Dewmini's Roti Shop This is THE roti place in Mirissa - really popular and run by a warm local family. It's cash only, and ask for a “tourist mild” spice if you’re not used to heat! Secret Root Spa If you’re looking to unwind, Secret Root Spa is a hidden gem. Located in a lush, tropical garden, the spa offers traditional treatments from full-body massages to Ayurvedic oil therapies and shirodhara (warm oil poured over the forehead). Call or WhatsApp +94 77 329 4332 to book.
Hiriketiya
One of our favourite spots in Sri Lanka, and a very special place for us, since we got engaged here! Around 2.5 hours away from Wadduwa, a gorgeous horseshoe-shaped bay known for its surf and small cafés. If you have the time for a little adventure, Hiriketiya is pure magic. Duni's Hoppers A cute café serving creative Hoppers, smoothie bowls, and local coffee. This is one of our go-to spots in Hiri. Try the pink beetroot hopper (Alex's favourite!) Smoke & Bitters We had a very special New Year's Eve here in 2024 after Alex proposed! This is a laid-back smokehouse-bar with wood-fired cooking and delicious cocktails. The drinks menu leans heavily into local flavors, with house-made bitters, arrack (coconut toddy). Sunsets are unreal here. Make sure to book before you go +94 76 990 2389 Crab Hiriketiya Charming, laid-back café tucked into the jungle around Hiriketiya. Go here for a tasty crab curry, but expect long wait times if busy.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe is home to large herds of elephants, deer, and other wildlife. You can also visit the nearby Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephant calves are rehabilitated. Stay in Private Organic House - a beautiful, family-run stay just a few kilometers from the park. Upul (the owner) can also help organise safaris (even 5‑hour ones) so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Call or WhatsApp +94 71 615 5288 for bookings / more information.
Kandy
Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, famous for its serene Kandy Lake, vibrant streets, and rich history. It’s a hub for temples, traditional dance, and local crafts — the perfect place to soak up culture while enjoying cooler hill-country weather. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) Home to the sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth, this temple is a must-see for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance. Modest clothing required (shoulders and knees covered). Kandy Lake & Royal Botanical Gardens A stroll around Kandy Lake is relaxing, and the nearby Peradeniya Botanical Gardens feature giant trees, orchids, and spice gardens, great for a leisurely afternoon. Cultural Shows Evening traditional dance and drumming performances that showcase Sri Lanka’s folklore and artistry. Check out Kandy Lake Club for a cultural show - +94 77 226 0666
Ella
Ella is a small town with a big personality. Famous for its views, tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see, and a relaxed, almost magical vibe, it’s the perfect spot to do some grounding! Nine Arch Bridge A short walk through the surrounding paths brings you to the famous bridge, where you can watch trains cross and take incredible photos. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. Little Adam's Peak This easy-to-moderate hike takes about 30–45 minutes and offers views over tea plantations, valleys, and the famous Ella Gap. The trail is mostly shaded and well-marked, perfect for sunrise. Leech tip: If it’s been raining, wear long pants tucked into socks, use insect repellent, and check your ankles and shoes Ravana Falls A beautiful waterfall (tied to a local legend!) just outside town, with a viewing area by the road. Best visited during the day when the light highlights the cascading water.
Sigiriya
One of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landmarks, Sigiriya Lion Rock is an ancient rock fortress rising dramatically above the jungle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s famous for its mirror-smooth fresco walls, landscaped water gardens, and the iconic lion-shaped gateway that once led to a royal palace perched on the summit. The climb is rewarding yet manageable. Once you get to the top, you are treated to sweeping views of lush forests, mountains, and shimmering lakes. Truly one of the most unforgettable sights in the country. Tips Go at sunrise or sunset to avoid the heat. If you prefer an easier experience, the nearby Pidurangala Rock offers a stunning view of Sigiriya, with a gentler climb. For easy access to both Sigiriya and Dambulla (home to Sri Lanka’s famous Cave Temple, where beautifully preserved ancient murals and statues fill a series of sacred rock caves), a hotel around the Kandalama Lake is ideal.