Top 5 adventure activities in Sri Lanka

Do you enjoy the feeling of adrenaline pumping through your heart while experiencing activities that you cannot try at home? Then you are indeed an adventure lover. Adventure tourism includes exploring the destination through physical participation in activities. Adventure activities appeal to those who seek a thrill during their trips. For all such travelers we have put together a list of the top 5 best adventure activities to be done in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka might not be the first name to pop up in your mind when you think of adventure. However, you will be surprised to know that it is now growing as one of the most popular adventure destinations in the Indian subcontinent. So here is the list of top 5 adventures you may indulge in while on a Sri Lanka tour. 1. Whale watching One of the most exciting water activities in Sri Lanka is Whale watching. You get a chance to spot blue whales which are the biggest animals in the world. Do you know that blue whales migrate during the months of October to April from the south cold polar waters (Antarctica) to the warm tropical north waters (Sri Lanka) for the purpose of breeding and during May to September they migrate from the warmer waters to colder waters for feeding?  Mirissa is the hotspot for whale watching where you will have an encounter with these large and most graceful mammals from just few feet away from your boat. Get ready early in the morning and embark your boat for whale watching in the middle of the Indian Ocean. This tour lasts for around 2 to 3 hours. See the morning golden sun rays over the ocean and the water splashing on all sides of your boat. Get amazed with the beautiful dolphins and whales swimming in the tropical waters- a sight to behold. Best period: February – March 2. Climb Adam’s Peak Adam’s Peak is located in the central highland region of Sri Lanka. It is also called “Sri Pada”. It is a 2,243 m tall conical mountain and it is suggested to start the climb early in the morning (preferably at night) so that you may witness the beautiful sunrise, extraordinary views as well as a chance to see a glimpse of the peak’s mysterious shadow. Adam’s Peak attracts thousands of Buddhist pilgrims between the Unduvap (December) and Vesak (May) poyas as they believe that the footprints at the top of the hill belong to Lord Buddha. Don’t forget to wear a comfortable footwear as you have to climb around 5000-6000 steps which is a long and arduous climb. At the start of the climb there are many local shops that sell warm cloths, and many local art collections if you wish to purchase. Also see the wonderful huge statue of resting Lord Budddha. Once you reach the top, relax and compliment the astonishing view, clouds, mountains, feel the peace and spirituality in the environment and thereafter proceed to descend from the mountain top. Best period: November – March 3. Zipline in Sri Lanka Located in the luscious green estate of Ella, you slide at 80kmph and enjoy the bird’s eye view of the beautiful hills of the island. For all the thrill seekers the Zipline in Sri Lanka is a must try. The zipline is almost 82m high over the stunning landscape. Appreciate the lush and breathtaking greenery as you soar at an exciting pace. Ella is filled with an abundance of natural beauty and zipline is one of the best things to do here. Make sure you wear comfortable clothes for this activity as around your thighs and waist comes the tight harness which can feel uncomfortable. The finest equipment and professional expertise, sets your stage for the exciting zipline experience. So, when in Sri Lanka, enjoy the two-wire zip-line stretched for more than half a kilometre and feel the beauty of the area. Best period: November – March 4. White Water rafting White water rafting is one of the most exciting and popular water-based activities. Sri Lanka too is very accessible to this experience. If you are planning a tour to Sri Lanka and want to indulge in white water rafting head to Kitulgala. Kitulagala is a town located in west of the road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. Do you know that Kitulgala is well known as filming place for the David Lean’s 1957 Oscar-winning epic “Bridge on the River Kwai” on the banks of Kelani River? Kitulgala’s main attraction is white water rafting where you can ride the tides of Kelani River. The river and its surrounding will make you feel enchanted. The distance covered during rafting is 5 km. The rafting activity also gives an opportunity to explore jungle trails and hidden rock pools which are suitable for swimming. Best period: May – December 5. Scuba diving at Hikkaduwa Diving underwater is an unforgettable experience where you get a chance to explore and admire the wide variety of marine life, corals, and adventures the ocean holds. Hikkaduwa is the perfect location for scuba diving as the waters are shallow and clear. Scuba diving at Hikkaduwa is quite safe for the first-time divers. At Hikkaduwa, you may register for scuba diving at any institute that is certified by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). The scuba diving activity lasts for four hours to almost half a day that covers one shallow dive and one deep dive and rest of the time is dedicated for pre-diving preparation. When you dive into the deep ocean you will see the colourful corals shining in their multi-coloured hues, shoals of fish swimming by and radiant sunlight seeping in to admire the underwater beauty. Best period: October – May Jay Kajaria is Founder of Bespoke India Holidays. 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