A nature/wildlife lover’s dream materializes when you step in to the bountiful bird sanctuary that is home to over 150 species of birds, and a multitude of mammals, fish and reptiles. Situated 20km away from the city of Tangalle, Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is the only bird sanctuary in the country. It is embraced within the Kalametiya mangrove lagoon and is a well preserved wildlife region by the government. Enjoy boat tours over the brackish waters as you take in all that the sanctuary has to offer, from the chirping of birds creating symphony over the greenery and vibrant wings slashing across the waters as they spread their mighty feathers.

A wildlife park for birders to feast their eyes upon. Bundala National Park is a vital wetland for migratory water birds, especially the greater flamingo. It’s a treasured landscape for over 197 species of birds and shelters monkeys, mongooses, elephants, crocodiles and monitor lizards that may just add the much needed nature element you are seeking out of your excursions.

Providing a safe haven for endangered species of turtles are a key reason for the Turtle Sanctuaries, one which you can see for yourself if you head towards The Sea Turtle Hatchery in Hikkaduwa. The site is full of tanks which are full of turtles! Amaze yourself and your kids with their fantastic wading in the tanks while you feed yourself more knowledge about this fascinating ancient creatures and learn about their struggle for survival. With supervision, you may even cuddle a baby turtle to take a memorable photograph.

Travel back in history when you pay a visit to Mulgirigala Raja Maha Vihara, which is also known as Little Sigiriya. Believed to be built in the 3^rd Century AD, this temple is perched on a 205m natural rock and is surrounded by four other rocks named Benagala, Kondagala, Bisogala and Seelawathiegala. It has seven smaller temples in the same arena. Experience moments of spiritual bliss at this religious site, and observe the figurines and murals embellishing the caves within. Be prepared to ascend over 500 steps to reach the top of the temple. The view from the heights would definitely be worth the climb.

The most sought after wildlife park in the country awaits you.  A nature reserve and natural park combined, this is a nature lover’s destination to watch wildlife and predators strut majestically in their natural habitat. Feast your eyes on a plethora of the world’s biggest concentration of elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambars, spotted dears, crocodiles, jackals and peacocks amongst 44 varieties of mammals and 215 species of birds spread over 130,000 hectares of land, divided into 5 blocks and 2 of which are open to the public consisting of forests, lagoons and grassland. Take a safari through Yala National Park for an unforgettable ride.

If you have a thirst for water sports, Tangalle’s multitude of opportunities to fondle with the ocean never ceases to amaze you.  Time to tick off your surfing goals on your bucket list, Tangalle Surf School provides lessons to help you surf like a pro and enjoy your activity despite your skill level. Open to amateurs and experts, young and old, from 7 to 60 years of age, the Surf School plans your lessons and offers surf tours to exhilarate you with their professionalism and affordability.

Bordering the Yala National Park, this 35,664 hectares of land, consisting of 20 lagoons and tanks is home to over 200 species of endemic, resident and migrant birds. Even mammals such as leopards, elephants, wild boar, endangered Fishing Cat among many more can be sighted here. Kumuna National Park is a precious habitat for endangered wetland species amongst which are the Green Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle and the Olive Ridley. Pay a visit to the mammoth areas of mangrove swamps and treat yourself to the best of wildlife Sri Lanka has to offer.

A mesmerizing natural marine life unfolds in the golden beaches around Tangalle. Five of the seven marine turtle species in the world, namely, Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Leatherback are found in their habitat for visitors to avidly look upon.  Watch as they hatch their eggs in the conserved nestling sites and then collectively glide back in to the ocean.