Although the whole of Sri Lanka is blessed with countless places to see and things to do, the island’s South is widely regarded by armies of visitors to be a quintessential tourist hub.
There is a wide array of pristine beaches and Cultural destinations as well as a carefree culture which mirrors the exuberant spirit of the south’s local and foreign visitors. The belt of major cities and towns that feature prominently in the tourism belt down south are Galle, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Wadduwa and Mirissa.
Each contains its own unique identity and set of attractions, which in turn draw a very diverse group of travellers. Given that each of these locations exist just a short drive away from Colombo, they are the preferred destination of urban dwellers looking to unwind over the Weekend.
People travelling down south can either drive there themselves or choose a company dealing in car hire. Colombo is dotted with several of these establishments however Kings Rent A Car Colombohas proven itself to be a leader in the industry and offers a wealth of service options which guarantee convenience.
The close proximity of southern towns to the coast means that they offer travellers the chance to indulge in a variety of water sports or simply partake in some light reverie while gazing toward the sun-dappled ocean. Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna in particular have garnered a reputation for being surfing hubs and beach havens. They often attract surfers from far-flung destinations across the globe.
This has had the effect of creating a relaxed, bohemian, surfer sub-culture which, in its own way, offers a break from the hectic work regime weekend visitors from big cities have to regularly endure.
Mirissa offers its guests the added benefit of whale watching tours along with visits to the nearby Sri Sunandarama Temple. However, in terms of cultural and historical value, the city of Galle exists in a league of its own.
Apart from being the site of literature, music and fashion festivals, the vestiges of the country’s colonial past hand heavy around each cobbled walkway and exquisitely-designed house. The monolith which epitomises this past is the Galle Fort.
The fort was first erected by the Portuguese before the Dutch later fortified it during their rule. Daily, a long procession of visitors ambles across its powerful ramparts, all the while absorbing the gripping tableau which surrounds them.
