South Coast of Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan south coast is one of most beautiful places in Asia; the region's has stunning diverse attractions make it one of Sri Lanka's most rewarding areas to visit. Gateway to the south and one of its highlights is the atmospheric old port of Galle, Sri Lanka's best-preserved colonial town; though beyond Galle stretch a string of picturesque beaches in the world, including Unawatuna, Weligama, Mirissa and Tangalla. Moreover nearby, the little-visited town of Matara, with its picturesque Dutch fort, provides a further taste of Sri Lanka's colonial past, while ancient Tissamaharama makes a good base from which to visit two of the country's finest national parks: the placid lagoons and birdlife-rich wetlands of Bundala, and Yala, famous for its elephants and leopards. Beyond Tissamaharama lies the fascinating religious center of Kataragama, whose various shrines are held sacred by Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims alike.