Best Places to Visit in Southern Province | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Southern Province Travel Guide
Quick overview of Southern Province with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Southern Province Travel Videos
- Plan Southern Province Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Southern Province
- Hotels Map Of Southern Province
- Tours And Activities In Southern Province
- Food And Drinks To Try In Southern Province
- Best Time To Visit Southern Province
- Flight Calendar For Southern Province
- Transportation To Southern Province
Welcome to the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, a tropical paradise nestled along the country's stunning coastline. This region is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse and immersive experience. From the bustling city of Galle, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed fort, to the tranquil shores of Mirissa, where you can spot majestic blue whales, the Southern Province offers a plethora of attractions and activities for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking to relax on palm-fringed beaches, explore ancient temples, or indulge in mouthwatering seafood, the Southern Province is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Southern Province Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Southern Province
1. Galle: Located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a charming city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. The Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction with its narrow streets, boutique shops, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The city also offers beautiful beaches, such as Unawatuna, where visitors can relax and enjoy water sports. Galle is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
2. Mirissa: If you're a beach lover, Mirissa is the place to be. This small coastal town is famous for its pristine beaches and whale watching opportunities. Hop on a boat and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Mirissa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with beachside bars and restaurants offering delicious seafood and live music. Don't miss the chance to catch a breathtaking sunset at Parrot Rock.
3. Tangalle: For those seeking a more tranquil and secluded experience, Tangalle is a hidden gem in the Southern Province. This coastal town boasts unspoiled beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Hiriketiya Beach is a favorite among surfers, while Goyambokka Beach offers a serene setting for relaxation. Tangalle is also home to the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, where visitors can witness the nesting and hatching of sea turtles.
4. Matara: Located at the southernmost point of Sri Lanka, Matara is a city with a rich cultural heritage. The Matara Fort is a prominent landmark, offering panoramic views of the city and the Indian Ocean. The Weherahena Temple is another must-visit attraction, known for its massive Buddha statue and intricate murals. Matara is also a gateway to the stunning Dondra Head Lighthouse and the picturesque Polhena Beach.
5. Hikkaduwa: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The Hikkaduwa National Park is a protected marine reserve, offering opportunities to explore the underwater world. The town also has a lively beach scene, with beachfront bars, restaurants, and a bustling nightlife. Don't forget to visit the Tsunami Photo Museum to learn about the devastating impact of the 2004 tsunami on the region.
6. Weligama: Weligama is a coastal town famous for its surfing spots and stilt fishermen. Watch these skilled fishermen perched on wooden stilts as they cast their nets into the sea. Weligama Bay is ideal for beginners to learn how to surf, with its gentle waves and sandy bottom. The town also offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
7. Dikwella: Dikwella is a small town known for its unspoiled beaches and rock formations. Hiriketiya Beach is a hidden paradise, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. The nearby Blow Hole is a natural wonder, where seawater shoots up through a hole in the rocks, creating a spectacular display. Dikwella is a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
8. Koggala: Koggala is a coastal town famous for its Koggala Lake and stilt fishermen. Take a boat ride on the lake and witness the traditional fishing techniques of these skilled fishermen. Koggala is also home to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum, dedicated to preserving Sri Lankan culture and heritage. The town's beautiful beaches and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect destination for relaxation.
9. Ambalangoda: Ambalangoda is a town renowned for its traditional mask making. Visit the Ariyapala & Sons Mask Museum to learn about the history and significance of these intricately crafted masks. The town is also known for its moonstone mines, where visitors can witness the mining process and purchase unique gemstones. Ambalangoda offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich artistic traditions.
10. Kalutara: Located at the mouth of the Kalu Ganga River, Kalutara is a town known for its stunning beaches and religious sites. The Kalutara Bodhiya is a sacred Buddhist shrine, believed to be one of the 32 saplings of the original Bodhi Tree in India. The town also has a vibrant market, where visitors can shop for local handicrafts and spices. Kalutara is a peaceful destination with a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hotels Map Of Southern Province
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Tours And Activities In Southern Province
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Food & Drinks To Try In Southern Province
1. Hoppers: A popular Sri Lankan dish, hoppers are thin, crispy pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. They are typically eaten for breakfast or dinner and can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings such as egg, onion sambol, or curry.
2. Kottu Roti: This is a must-try street food in Sri Lanka. Kottu roti is made by chopping up roti bread, vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or beef) on a hot griddle. It is then mixed with a flavorful blend of spices and served with a side of curry sauce.
3. Fish Ambul Thiyal: A specialty of the Southern Province, fish ambul thiyal is a sour and spicy fish curry made with tamarind, goraka (a sour fruit), and a blend of aromatic spices. The fish is usually marinated and cooked until it becomes tender and infused with the rich flavors of the curry.
4. Pol Sambol: Pol sambol is a spicy coconut relish that is commonly served as a condiment with Sri Lankan meals. It is made by combining grated coconut with red chili powder, lime juice, onions, and other spices. Pol sambol adds a burst of flavor and heat to any dish.
5. Woodapple Juice: Woodapple, also known as beli fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Sri Lanka. Its juice is a popular beverage in the Southern Province. The fruit has a unique tangy and sweet flavor, and the juice is often served chilled as a refreshing drink.
6. Watalappan: Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert that originated in the Southern Province. It is a steamed coconut custard made with jaggery (a type of cane sugar), coconut milk, eggs, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom and nutmeg. Watalappan has a rich and creamy texture and is often garnished with cashews or almonds.
7. Ceylon Tea: Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea production, and the Southern Province is home to several tea estates. Ceylon tea, as it is commonly known, is a black tea with a distinct flavor and aroma. It is best enjoyed hot and can be paired with a variety of snacks or enjoyed on its own.
8. Coconut Arrack: Arrack is a traditional Sri Lankan alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut flowers. It is distilled and aged to create a smooth and flavorful spirit. Coconut arrack is often enjoyed straight or used as a base for cocktails.
9. Kithul Treacle: Kithul treacle is a sweet syrup made from the sap of the kithul palm tree, which is abundant in the Southern Province. It has a rich and caramel-like flavor and is commonly used as a sweetener in Sri Lankan desserts and beverages.
10. Seafood: Being located along the coast, the Southern Province offers a wide variety of fresh seafood options. From prawns and crabs to fish and squid, you can indulge in delicious seafood dishes prepared in various styles, such as grilled, curried, or fried.
Best Time To Visit Southern Province
The best time to visit the Southern Province in Sri Lanka is between November and April. During this period, the region experiences dry and sunny weather, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the coastal towns. The main attractions in the Southern Province include Galle Fort, Unawatuna Beach, Mirissa, and Yala National Park. It is important to note that the Southern Province can get quite crowded with tourists during the peak season, so it is advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Flight Calendar For Southern Province
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Southern Province.
Transportation To Southern Province
There are several transportation options to Southern Province, Sri Lanka.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota, which is located in the Southern Province.
2. By Train: Sri Lanka Railways operates train services to various destinations in the Southern Province. You can take a train from Colombo to cities like Galle, Matara, or Hambantota, depending on your final destination in the Southern Province.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Colombo and other major cities to various towns in the Southern Province. You can take a bus from Colombo to cities like Galle, Matara, or Hambantota.
4. By Car: You can also hire a car or take a taxi from Colombo or other major cities to travel to the Southern Province. The Southern Expressway is a convenient and fast route to reach the Southern Province by road.
5. By Ferry: If you are coming from the Maldives, there are ferry services available from Male to Galle in the Southern Province.
Once you reach the Southern Province, you can use local transportation options like buses, tuk-tuks, or taxis to travel within the province and explore its various attractions.