A mangrove lagoon joined to the sea by a narrow canal and containing 64 islands of varying size, some of which are inhabited. On the islands and shores relatively undisturbed mangrove vegetation contains a rich biodiversity qualifying the wetland for 7 Criteria of International Importance. Many globally/nationally endangered, endemic and rare species - e.g. Shorea affinis, an endemic and endangered plant, Mugger, vulnerable and CITES-listed Purple-faced Leaf Monkey , endangered, Estuarine Crocodile, Flapshell Turtle s , Indian Python find shelter here. 1 1/2 hour drive from Colombo $30 Per Head for the Boat and the Boat driver.

The Galle Fort, or Dutch Fort as it is also known, is a fortification first built by the Portuguese on the Southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The initial fortifications, which were built in the late 16th century, were quite basic. However the fort underwent extensive modifications in the 17th century by the Dutch, making it one of the most important archeological, architectural and historic monuments to illustrate the European influence in South East Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries. According to a statement by UNESCO the site was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its unique exposition of an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries which is the criterion number four for such recognition. 45 Minutes drive from the Madu river safari

Jungle Beach is a pretty bay nestled in a forested area. It is one of the secret gems of Sri Lanka which has everything to make your holiday experience one of its kind. The place retains its pristine natural charm as it is not ventured by a large number of tourists throughout the year due to its secluded location. Jungle Beach offers a plethora of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, boat ride and many more. The reefs jutting out of water a few meters offshore make a good site for snorkeling which introduces you to the exotic marine life of the region. 10 Minutes drive from the Galle Dutch fort

The Peace Pagoda is on the hillside of the Galle Fort and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The Mahayana sect built the Peace Pagoda as an initiative to establish peace in the Sri Lankan conflict zone. The Pagoda is a spectacle to witness, especially when you view it from the side of Unawatuna, which makes it look like it has grown out of the jungle. The Peace Pagoda is on the hillside of the Galle Fort and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The Mahayana sect built the Peace Pagoda as an initiative to establish peace in the Sri Lankan conflict zone. The Pagoda is a spectacle to witness, especially when you view it from the side of Unawatuna, which makes it look like it has grown out of the jungle. 5 minute drive from the jungle beach

One of the main attractions of Talpe is swimming and surfing at the beach. With the coral reef being one of the main reasons why many tourists flock to this place. This small coral reef forms a small swimming pool and is perfect if you are looking for a beach getaway. The beautiful Koggala river enhances the beauty of this place Entrance $5 to be paid separately 15 Minute drive from the Peace Pagoda

In chest-deep water on the beach, just a few meters off-shore, are the stilt fishermen perched on a cross bar fixed on a single pole planted into the sea-bed. These fishermen, who are the poorest of the poor, spend hours with their lines cast out to the sea to catch small fish and sell them in return or use for their daily meals. 05 Minutes drive from Talpe

Having made its way to almost every traveller’s Instagram profile when they visit Mirissa, the Coconut Tree Hill is a must-do when you’re in Mirissa. The Coconut Tree Hill is a private coconut estate with a nearby temple set on a high cliff overlooking the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean and the untouched stretch of golden beach. Located in proximity to the town, the hill can be accessed throughout the day or night. 25 Minutes Drive from the Stilt fisherman

Secret Beach Mirissa, is a small hidden beach with a bay area just around the corner of the town’s main beach, Mirissa Beach. Although Secret Beach is no longer much of a secret. It should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Mirissa. While the beach has gained more popularity in recent years, it still doesn’t attract as many visitors as the main beach, and so it is still somewhat of a hidden gem. The best thing about Secret Beach is its surroundings; the beach is nestled in a cove and flanked by small hills covered in lush green palm trees on either side which creates a number of smaller beaches.

The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project was started by Dudley Perera in the year 1981. The main aim of the project is to conserve the sea turtles and protect them from predators like birds, dogs, and crabs. Tourists will be guided throughout the process of protecting and proper hatching of the sea turtles while visiting the hatchery. One can also visit the hatchery in the evening when the baby turtles are released into the sea as the risk for predators is minimum at this time and get the opportunity to release their baby sea turtle into the sea. Drop in on the way back to Colombo