West Coast of Sri Lanka Holidays

The west coast of Sri Lanka is a medley of beautiful beaches and lagoons, bustling cities, national parks and welcoming inhabitants. It's on this western coast that you'll find Colombo, the flourishing capital city of Sri Lanka. A kaleidoscope of cultural activities, bazaars and culinary offerings, the city hums with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere. Historically Colombo was made the capital under the British reign and has continued to be so, even after the island achieved its independence in 1948. With the airport close by, it's a common starting and ending point for visitors.

Just north of the capital, the city of Negombo encompasses a large wild-life rich lagoon and boasts beautiful sandy beaches. A choice of restaurants cater to all tastes serving both Sri Lankan and international dishes, while friendly locals welcome visitors with a smile. Adjust to the slower pace of life with a massage in a local spa, then fill the days with a swim in the warm coastal waters that edge the palm fringed beaches, exploring the old quarter to view the Dutch and British influences, and delving into the lively fish market.

Continue travelling up to the north west corner of the island and you'll find Wilpattu National Park. A great safari location, the park is quieter than Yala National park and home to Leopards, bears, deer, crocodiles, elephants and a large variety of birdlife. View animals gathering around the sand rimmed water basins and explore the open grasslands accompanied by areas of thick jungle. Further north and the landscape turns to coconut plantations and lagoons, with dolphins seen playing off the coast.

Journeying south of Colombo, you'll find the resort town of Bentota nestling beside the Bentota river. Home to boutique hotels and golden sands, the area is a good spot for diving, with the coastal waters containing coral reefs that house a diverse selection of marine life. Extending north, the palm fringed Bentota beach becomes a sandy strip nicknamed paradise island, that runs parallel to Bentota lagoon.

A popular tourist destination, Hikkaduwa lies on the south west corner of the island with Galle Just a short journey away. Shops and restaurants line the seafront, while diving and surf schools provide a spectacle for those sunbathing on the beach. Alternatively, a short journey north and you can delve into Sri Lanka's more traditional side with a visit to Ambalangoda. Famed for its devil masks, locals carve the masks from light balsa wood, and use them for vibrant and colourful performances.