Maduru Oya National Park: A Quiet Corner Of Wild Sri Lanka

BY  Sibashree Aug 29, 2026

By the time I heard Baker's Falls, my legs already knew we were on the return leg of the Horton Plains loop.  We had started before sunrise to beat the mist at World's End, walked the open plateau in that strange, cold, grassland light, and then dropped back into cloud forest for the final stretch.  The falls announced themselves before they appeared as a low rush of water through the trees. After the wide-open plains, that first glimpse of water tumbling over dark rock into the ferns felt almost intimate by comparison. Baker’s Falls Quick Facts DetailInformationHeightAround 20 MetersWidthAround 25 MetersRiverBelihul Oya, a Tributary of the Walawe RiverLocationHorton Plains National Park, Nuwara Eliya DistrictDistance from EntranceAround 3 Km from the Main Loop TrailFull Loop Distance9.5 Km Round Trip, including Bakers Falls and World’s EndPark ElevationAround 2100 to 2300 MetersEntry FeeEntry Fee to Horton Plains National Park, No Additional FeeNamed AfterSir Samuel Baker, a British explorer, who is said to have come upon it in 1845 Where Is Bakers Falls And How To Reach? Baker's Falls is inside Horton Plains National Park in the Nuwara Eliya District. You have to walk from the entrance along the main park trail to reach Baker's Falls.  Belihul Oya, a major tributary of the Walawe River, has formed this waterfall.  Reaching The Park Entrance You can reach Horton Plains National Park from Nuwara Eliya, at a distance of around 32 km.  You can also travel from the towns of Pattipola and Ohiya, both of which sit on the upcountry railway line.  If you are traveling by train, you will have to hire a tuk-tuk or taxi for the final stretch to the gate. The Hike To The Falls You can reach Baker's Falls via the park's main loop trail. The same trail also takes in Little World's End and the main World's End escarpment.  From the entrance, it is about 4 km to World's End, then roughly 2 km further around the loop to Baker's Falls, and another 3.5 km back to the entrance. So, it is a 9.5 km round trip in total, usually taking about three hours at a comfortable pace. To reach the water itself, you'll descend a set of steps from the main trail down to the viewing area. World's End: The Rest Of The Loop Almost nobody visits Baker's Falls on its own. It is one stop on the wider Horton Plains circuit, alongside Little World's End (a roughly 300 m drop) and the main World's End escarpment, where the plateau falls away nearly 880 m. Horton Plains is unusual among Sri Lanka's national parks in that visitors can walk the main trail independently, without a mandatory guide. However, hiring one at the entrance is a good way to learn more about the park's cloud-forest ecology and resident sambar deer. What Makes Baker's Falls Worth The Walk Baker's Falls is modest by Sri Lankan standards, with a height of around 20 meters. It is dwarfed by giants like Bambarakanda further south.  But its setting is what makes it memorable.  The Belihul Oya spreads across a wide, dark rock face in two stages, hemmed in by rhododendron and tree-fern growth that feels completely different from the open grassland just a couple of kilometres back up the trail.  Originally known as Gonagala Ella, the falls were renamed after Baker, who is credited with discovering them during his time exploring and hunting in the Nuwara Eliya highlands. After the exposed walk to World's End, where wind and cold are the main things you are contending with. The descent into the forest around Baker's Falls is a genuine change of pace. It is quieter, greener, and sheltered.  Most people treat it as the natural place to stop, catch your breath, and refill water before the final stretch back to the entrance. What Is The Best Time To Visit Bakers Falls? SeasonMonthsWhat to Expect Dry SeasonJanuary to AprilBest overall conditions.Clearer views at World's End and easier underfoot.Wet SeasonMay to SeptemberFrequent Mist, Especially After Mid-MorningSlippery Trail SectionsEarly MorningAny Season, Before 9-10 AMEssential for a Clear View at World's End Before the Cloud Rolls in. A One-Day Itinerary: The Full Horton Plains Loop TimeStopNotes5:30 AMDepart Nuwara EliyaStart Early to Beat the Mist at World’s End6:30 AMArrive at Park EntranceBuy Tickets and Start the Loop Trail. 7:15 AMLittle World's EndFirst Viewpoint, About 45 minutes in7:45 AMWorld's EndThe Main EscarpmentAim to Arrive Before 9 AM for Clear Views9 AMBaker's FallsRoughly 2 Km Further Along the Loop.Descend the Steps to the Base.10:30 AMReturn to EntranceFinal 3.5 Km Stretch Back Along the Trail.11:30 AMDepart for Nuwara EliyaYou Can Also Continue Toward Ella if Heading Further into the Hill Country.  Practical Tips To Keep In Mind For A Trip To Baker’s Falls Start before sunrise because World's End is frequently shrouded in mist by mid-morning, especially from April to September. Wear proper hiking shoes as parts of the trail are uneven. Also, the steps down to Baker's Falls can be slippery. Pack warm layers. Horton Plains sits above 2,000 m and mornings are cold, even though the walk itself will warm you up. There is no swimming at the pool below Baker's Falls. It is deeper than it looks and has a history of drownings. We reached the park entrance again a little after ten, legs tired and jackets finally shed.  Of everything on the Horton Plains loop, World's End is the view people talk about. However, Baker's Falls is the one I would send someone back for on its own.

BY  Sibashree Jun 30, 2026

Hambantota is in the news these days for the launch of Phase II of the flagship human-elephant conflict initiative, Save Ali Pancha.  This is a partnership between the Hambantota International Port (HIP), the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka (WNPS), and the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC).  The China Merchants Foundation (CMF) has funded the new phase of the project. Also, it will support the rehabilitation of the orphaned elephants in the Elephant Transit Home (ETH) of the Udawalawe National Park.  However, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Hambantota, in the truest sense, is the place where nature, age-old heritage, and modern amenities meet.  In this article, I will share my experience in Hambantota with a special focus on its top attractions and things to do.  Where Is Hambantota? Hambantota is on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. It has a semi-arid coastal climate and scorching summers.   Furthermore, it is at a distance of around 240 km from Colombo.  Also, the deep maritime port of Hambantota, along the major shipping route, is between the Suez Canal and the Malacca Straits.  How To Reach Hambantota? Hambantota is well-connected to the rest of Sri Lanka through the Beliatta Railway Station and Weerawila International Airport. The Beliatta Railway Station is at a distance of 35 km, and the airport is just 20 km away.  You can even fly to Dickwella or Koggala airstrips from different parts of Sri Lanka and then travel the distance by road.  Nevertheless, here is how you can travel to Hambantota from Colombo.  1. Colombo To Hambantota By Air You can take a flight to Weerawila International Airport from the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).  Cinnamon Air is the main operator on this route, and the travel time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Moreover, the ticket price is between LKR 15000 and 130000 based on the season and time of the flight booking.  From the Weerawila International Airport, you have to take a private car or taxi to Hambantota. The travel time is around 30 minutes, and the cost is around LKR 2500.  2. Colombo To Hambantota By Train The 8056 Express Train runs directly from Colombo to Hambantota.  The train leaves the Colombo Fort Railway Station at 2:40 PM and reaches the Beliatta Railway Station at 6:47 PM.  Also, the ticket price for this train ride is LKR 1600.  3. By Bus And Taxi The National Transport Commission (NTC) of Sri Lanka runs buses from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Embilipitiya.  The normal bus fare on this route is LKR 333, and the semi-luxury bus ticket costs LKR 416.  Buses are available every 20 minutes, and the travel time is around 5 hours and 5 minutes.  Furthermore, from Embilipitiya, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked cab to Hambantota. The travel time will be around 45 minutes, and the travel cost will be around LKR 1600 to 2000.  4. Colombo To Hambantota Via Matara This mode of transportation involves two stretches of bus journeys and 1 stretch of taxi/cab ride.  The first stretch is the Colombo Fort to Hambantota bus ride.  The NTC bus ride takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes, and the ticket price is LKR 315 for normal services, LKR 393 for semi-luxury buses, and LKR 525 for luxury buses. Then, from Matara, you can take a Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB ICT) bus to reach Tangalle in around 40 minutes.  Finally, from Tangalle, you can take a taxi to reach Hambantota within 1 hour. The cost will be around LKR 4500.   Why Is Hambantota Famous? Hambantota, with an ancient maritime history, has always been hailed for its strategic location.  Even today, it is an important geopolitical flashpoint due to its location near the busiest East-west shipping lanes.  However, with its routes going back to the ancient Kingdom of Ruhuna, Hambantota is more than a maritime hotspot.  It is also known for its rich biodiversity with the Bundala National Park, Ridiyagama Safari Park, Birds Research Centre and Resort, etc.  On the other hand, it is home to the Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium, one of the most celebrated international cricket venues in the world.  So, here are the details you need to know.  1. Bundala National Park This UNESCO biosphere reserve protects over 200 bird species alongside elephants and crocodiles. It features vast wetlands and coastal lagoons. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: 3,000 LKR per person, plus 5,000 LKR per jeep. 2. Ridiyagama Safari Park Spanning 500 acres, this open-concept park allows visitors to see global wildlife like lions and giraffes via bus tours. Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Fees: 1,000 LKR per person, plus 300 LKR per bus or 200 LKR per bike. 3. Birds Research Centre And Resort An eco-friendly conservation site offering guided walks and boat rides to observe regional avian species like eagles and peacocks. Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Fees: 1,000 LKR per person, plus 2,000 LKR per boat ride. 4. Mirijjawila Botanic Garden This expansive 300-acre garden showcases the rich plant diversity of Sri Lanka, including specialized herbal and spice sectors. Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person, plus 100 LKR per bike. 5. Agro Technology Park A unique venue displaying modern agricultural innovations like hydroponics and solar energy, complete with product tastings and workshops. Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person, plus 1,000 LKR per workshop. 6. Walawe River Safari A scenic two-hour boat ride providing close encounters with river crocodiles, water birds, and traditional local fishing villages. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: around 5,000 LKR per boat. 7. Mulkirigala Rock Temple Perched on a high rock, this ancient complex features seven cave temples, historic murals, and a giant reclining Buddha. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person. 8. Ramba Viharaya Dating to the 2nd century BC, this historic temple complex holds an ancient stupa, secluded caves, and an artifact museum. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person. 9. Ussangoda National Park Known for its distinctive red soil and coastal cliffs, this park provides archaeological ruins and stunning panoramic sunset ocean views. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person, plus 100 LKR per bike. 10. Dry Zone Botanic Gardens A 300-acre sanctuary showcasing dry-zone flora, including cacti, succulents, and medicinal plants, alongside a dedicated orchid house. Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Fees: 500 LKR per person, plus 100 LKR per bike. 11. Mahapelessa Hot Springs Natural thermal springs renowned for their traditional healing properties, nestled within a relaxing landscape surrounded by local vendor stalls. Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Fees: 100 LKR per person. 12. Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium With a capacity to accommodate 35000 spectators, the Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium is the second-largest cricket venue in the country.  It was built during the Cricket World Cup of 2011. Also, on non-match days, the ground remains open from 9 AM to 5 PM.  Moreover, on match days, the ticket price is around LKR 350 to 1500+.  What Are The Things To Do In Hambantota? Along with exploring the top attractions that I have mentioned previously, Hambantota is also famous for bathing and unwinding in its Mahapelessa or Madunagala Hot Springs.  You can even have the basic wildlife experience with the Walawe River Safari. You will spot various schools of fish, crocodiles, and birdlife surrounded by dense mangroves here.  So, planning the itinerary for Hambantota can be very overwhelming. Here is an itinerary of the things to do in Hambantota if you are planning a visit for 4 days.  Day 1: Exploring Birds And Coastal Landscapes (East Hambantota) TimeActivityLocationLogistics and Cost Details06:00 AM - 09:30 AMMorning Bird SafariBundala National ParkBest for spotting elephants and flamingos. Cost: 3,000 LKR per person + 5,000 LKR per jeep.10:00 AM - 12:30 PMEco Walks and ConservationBirds Research Centre & ResortStroll the grounds or opt for a lake tour. Cost: 1,000 LKR per person (+ 2,000 LKR for optional boat ride).12:30 PM - 02:00 PMLunch BreakHambantota Town / CoastStop at a local eatery for fresh seafood or rice and curry.02:30 PM - 04:30 PMBotanical WalkMirijjawila Botanic GardenExplore the 300-acre herbal and spice sectors. Cost: 500 LKR per person.05:00 PM - 06:15 PMRed Cliffs SunsetUssangoda National ParkCatch panoramic ocean views over the unique red soil. Cost: 500 LKR per person. Day 2: Safaris And Botanical Exploration (North-West Hambantota) TimeActivityLocationLogistics and Cost Details 8:30 AM to 11:30 AMOpen-Air Wildlife SafariRidiyagama Safari ParkArrive early when lions and giraffes are active. Cost: 1,000 LKR per person + 300 LKR for the safari bus.12 PM to 1:30 PMLunch and Modern FarmingAgro Technology ParkTour hydroponics setups and sample local farm products. Cost: 500 LKR per person2 PM to 4 PMCacti and Orchids TourDry Zone Botanic GardensView the dry-zone plant collections. Note: Shares the same footprint as Mirijjawila. Cost: 500 LKR per person.4:30 PM to 5:30 PMSports Venue TourMahinda Rajapaksha StadiumWalk through the historic 2011 World Cup cricket stadium. Cost: Free entry on non-match days. Day 3: River Safaris And Thermal Springs (Walawe River Area) TimeActivityLocationLogistics and Cost Details8 AM to 10 AMExploring the Mangrove and River Boat RideWalawe River SafariCruise through mangroves to spot crocodiles and water birds. Cost: ~5,000 LKR flat rate per boat.10:30 AM to 12:30 PMThermal Bathing and RelaxationMahapelessa Hot SpringsSoak in the therapeutic, natural hot water springs. Cost: 100 LKR per person.12:30 PM to 2:00 PMLocal LunchAmbalantota AreaTry traditional snacks from the vendor stalls near the springs.02:30 PM to 5 PMExploring Ancient Monastic RuinsRamba ViharayaExplore the 2nd-century BC stupa, caves, and on-site museum. Cost: 500 LKR per person. Day 4: Heritage And Rock Temples (Inland Cultural Day) Time ActivityLocationLogistics and Cost Details08:00 AM - 11:00 AMCave Temples ExplorationMulkirigala Rock TempleClimb the rock to view 7 ancient caves and historic murals. Cost: 500 LKR per person.12:00 PM - 01:30 PMFinal LunchHambantota TownRelax over a long lunch to wrap up your trip.02:00 PM OnwardsSouvenir Shopping and DepartureHambantota TownPick up local curd (Meekiri) and treacle before heading out. Where To Stay In Hambantota? Hambantota has many luxury resorts and spas. However, if you want the most authentic experience, you can stay in Hotel Bundala Park and the Birds Research Centre and Resort.  Hotel Bundala Park is located near the Bundala National Park, and the tariff is LKR 5000pery day.  Birds Research Centre and Resort is another eco-friendly accommodation with a tariff of LKR 3000 per night. Read Also: What Are The Places To Visit In Matara? A Southern Sri Lankan Commercial Hub With Dutch Colonial Heritage Where To Stay In Mirrissa, Sri Lanka In 2026? Know The Best Accommodation Options Why Is Puttalam Sri Lanka Famous? What Are The Things To Do In Puttalam?

BY  Sibashree Jun 24, 2026

Puttalam grabbed everyone’s attention with the sudden visibility of a mysterious object with a length of several feet in the sky.  There were speculations about the object being a missile, rocket, or meteor shower.  A few months ago, on 15th December, 2025, the Geminid meteor shower was clearly visible in the sky.  However, these are not one-off instances. I could clearly see the Milky Way in Puttalam Sri Lanka, in the month of April.  Furthermore, the wilderness surroundings, remote areas such as Eluwankulama, and a relatively flat topography on the southwestern coast, make Puttalam one of the chosen places of stargazing in Sri Lanka.  But beyond the stargazing excitements, Puttalam, Sri Lanka, bears a rich history, exudes serene coastal beauty, and has a colonial heritage.  In this article, I will talk about my days in Puttalam so that you know that coastal beauty better.  Where Is Puttalam? Known for massive coconut production, prawn farming, and salt production, Puttalam town is the capital of the Puttalam district.  It is on the shore of the Puttalam lagoon, the second largest lagoon in the country.  The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is now encouraging the most sustainable use of the lagoon resources.  Thus, they are supporting the exploration of new ecosystems here for better fisheries management. Here is an excerpt from a report published by IUCN on 4th April, 2025.  “With 88 fishing villages and approximately 165,000 people dependent on it, fisheries in Puttalam have been identified by its residents as their most important ecosystem service, particularly for women, who participate in bivalve gleaning and other post-harvest livelihoods. The lagoon is an important area for endangered species, such as green sea turtles and dolphins, and contains ecosystems vital for its health, such as seagrass and mangroves.  Tourism is also important in the Lagoon, which hosts seasonal aquatic sports and has year-round visitors to its islands.  The islands additionally have cultural importance as they are connected to local religious values.” Moreover, Puttalam has the Indian Ocean on the west, and it is the gateway to the Kalpitiya peninsula and Wilpattu National Park. How To Reach Puttalam Sri Lanka? Puttam is located around 130 km north of Colombo. It is also located at a distance of close to 95 km from Nogombo.  Furthermore, it is well-connected to Colombo and other major cities/hubs of the country through the Puttalam Railway Line and A3, A10, and A12 highways.  By Train  The train travel from Colombo Fort to Puttalam takes between 3 hours and 45 minutes and 5 hours.  Moreover, the ticket price will be between LKR 250 and LKR 1550 (Source: the Department of Railways. Sri Lanka. By Bus  Also, you can take a bus from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal in Colombo and travel to Puttalam with a stopover in Anuradhapura.  You can even take the direct 87/816 buses. They cover the distance within around 4 to 4.5 hours, and the regular, non-AC bus tickets cost between LKR 500 and LKR 800.  What Is The History Of Puttalam Sri Lanka? Puttalam in Sri Lanka today stands out with its multicultural identity. Here, you will find a fusion of Sinhalese, Sri Lankan Moors, and Tamil cultures, which have lived for generations.  Furthermore, as a commercial and administrative center, it supports diverse activities such as prawn farming, shallow sea fishing, and salt production.  However, this town on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka has a history spanning 10000 years.  Located on the large Puttalam Lagoon, it has been a maritime trade hub, a center for the colonial spice and coconut industries, and has an enduring and culturally diverse population. Here, I have broken the history of this coastal town into three sections.  Ancient Roots And Indigenous Beginnings The archaeological evidence of the locality shows that human settlements started here 75000-125000 years ago.  Prince Vijaya, 6th century B.C., chose it as the landing site, and thus the Sinhalese lineage started here.  Medieval Trade And Arab Influence  During the medieval period, Puttalam became a major location for maritime trade.  Arab merchants, who established deep roots in the region, laid the foundation for the prominent Moorish population in the area.  Furthermore, the name Puttalam comes from the Tamil word Puthu-kulam. Puthu-kulam means "new tank" or "new pond.” Thus, it indicated the vital irrigation tanks that sustained early agricultural settlements.   The Colonial Era  Many European powers wanted to control the lucrative trade routes of Puttalam because of its natural resources and coastal position.  The Potuguese was the forest to build a built a strategic fort in Puttalam to secure the region and monitor trade in the 16th century.  Then, in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Dutch came. They captured and significantly expanded the Portuguese fortress. Furthermore, during these times, Puttalam became a central transit point for the highly profitable cinnamon trade and salt production within the lagoon. In addition, in the 19th and 20th centuries, the British came to power.  They used the fertile soil of the region for the expansion of the coconut industry. Thus, Puttalam became one of the most critical sources of copra and coconut products in the island.  A Quick Summary Of The History Of Puttalam  Era/PeriodKey Historical Developments and MilestonesOver 10,000 years agoEarly human settlements established, supported by archaeological evidence.Medieval Period- Puttalam became a pivotal west-coast maritime trade hub.- Arab merchants settled, forming the roots of the Sri Lankan Moor community.- Named Puthu-kulam ("new tank/pond") after vital local irrigation tanks.Portuguese Rule(16th Century)A strategic coastal fort was constructed to monitor trade and secure the region.Dutch Rule (17th and 18th Centuries)- Captured and expanded the Portuguese fortress.- Transformed the town into a transit hub for cinnamon and lagoon salt production.British Rule (19th and 20th Centuries)- Developed agricultural infrastructure.- Oversaw rapid expansion of the coconut industry, making it a top source for copra. Why Is Puttalam Famous? Puttalam is famous for its historical ruins, religious centers, and natural attractions. You cannot miss the following attractions. 1. Munneswaram Hindu Temple The Munneswaram Hindu Temple is one of the five historic coastal temples of Lord Shiva in Sri Lanka.  The history of the temple goes back to at least 1000 CE.  Moreover, it is associated with the stories of the Ramayana.  Also, it is a unique spiritual hub where Buddhists and Hindus unite.  2. St Anne’s Church St. Anne’s Church is along the coastline of Thalawila. It has a peaceful ambiance.  Also, it dates back to the Portuguese era.  It serves as a monumental pilgrimage site. Furthermore, it draws hundreds of thousands of believers from across the island for its grand annual feast in July. 3. Alankuda Beach The Alankuda Beach has a tranquil stretch of golden sand, and it is known for dolphin and whale watching excursions.  Located in Kalpitiya, it is a premier eco-tourism destination, highly favored by adventure travelers for thrilling water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. 4. Hatthikuchchi Viharaya Tucked away in a peaceful forest landscape, this 3rd-century BCE Buddhist monastic complex is famous for a massive rock formation that resembles an elephant's stomach.  It is highly revered as the legendary sanctuary where the pious, exiled King Sirisangabo self-sacrificially gave up his own head to assist a poor peasant. 5. Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary This Ramsar-designated site is an important landmark for ecotourism in Sri Lanka.  It has a historic human-made system of interconnected freshwater tanks crashing right against a coastal lagoon. Furthermore, it is an irreplaceable, thriving sanctuary for thousands of native and migratory birds. 6. Puttalam Lagoon The Puttalam Lagoon, spanning an area of 32,700 hectares, is the second-largest backwater body in the country.  It has calm waters, and it is an ideal hub for small-scale prawn harvesting, wildlife viewing, and kite surfing.  7. Puttalam Station The colonial rulers of Puttalam opened the railway station officially on 12th May 1926.  Today, it is a state-run railway station and attracts many visitors due to its colonial charm and surrounding scenic beauty.  8. Yapahuwa Built by King Buwanekabahu, Yapahuwa was the royal residence in the 13th century.  Today, you will get to see the remains of this royal palace. I was especially mesmerized to see the ornate staircase.  9. Chilaw  Chilaw, located a few kilometers south of Puttalam, is a small town that stands out because of its religious harmony.  People from various traditions, backgrounds, and religions live here.  Furthermore, the beach here offers a calm and relaxing ambiance and the fishing villages here give you insights into the local way of living life.  What Are The Things To Do In Puttalam?  While Puttalam has the most tranquil vibe, it is also the hub of most adventurous activities, such as kite surfing, bar reef snorkeling, and wildlife safaris.  1. Kite Surfing In Kalpitiya  Kalpitiya is a global kite surfing hub. It has consistent wind conditions for over nine months of the year.  Furthermore, the flat-water lagoons here offer a safe space for learning. On the other hand, the ocean waves here challenge the advanced riders.  Also, the Margarita Kite School is the best name in kite surfing training in Kalpitiya today. It trains tourists and locals with the latest equipment.  Moreover, the downwind trips here are epic. You can glide across pristine, uninhabited islands and sandbars dotting the massive lagoon. 2. Dolphin Watching  I could spot hundreds of playful dolphins gathering in spectacular groups just off the Kalpitiya coast.  November to April is the best season to spot these adorable animals as the water remains calm.  Also, local guides follow strict conservation guidelines to protect the natural habitat of mammals. So, you have to follow responsible tourism practices.  3. Diving Puttalam has a diverse marine life. So, you can explore vibrant ecosystems teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays.  It also has historic shipwreck sites where fascinating sunken vessels are wrapped in colorful soft coral colonies. Furthermore, warm waters offer crystal-clear viewing conditions during the calm winter diving months. In addition, when you descend along deep underwater cliffs that host a spectacular variety of macro life. 4. Wildlife Safari At Wilpattu National Park The Wilpattu National Park has villus or natural rainwater lakes. It is famous for its high density of leopard population.  Furthermore, here, you can spot elusive sloth bears, wild elephants, crocodiles, and colorful endemic jungle birds. So, the jeep tour on the rugged off-road tracks was immersive. It cost me around LKR 16000.  5. Bar Reef Snorkeling  Here, you will find the most beautiful coral sanctuary of Sri Lanka.  Also, here, you can swim alongside brightly colored butterflyfish, giant parrotfish, and harmless blacktip reef sharks. Furthermore, you will marvel at delicate, healthy formations of brain and staghorn corals just below the surface. In addition, you can take short boat rides from the mainland to reach these shallow swimming areas.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Puttalam Sri Lanka? January to March and May to September are the best times to visit Puttalam. The dry and sunny weather conditions in the month are ideal for coastal kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, whale watching, and leopard safaris in the nearby Wilpattu National Park.