https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/southern-province/best-things-to-do/10071594816090
Best Things to Do
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Southern Province [2025]
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Yala National Park
4.8
/5
244 reviews
6.1
>100 km from downtown
Phone +94-112-888 585
Address: Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 5-8 hours
No.1 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Southern Province
Highlights:
Explore ancient ruins at Sithulpahuwa
Jeep safari for wildlife exploration
33% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Yala National Park, located in southeastern Sri Lanka, is the country's most visited and second-largest national park. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Yala is home to elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. The park's diverse landscapes include dry forests, grasslands, and wetlands, creating ideal habitats for wildlife. Yala is especially famous for having one of the world’s highest densities of leopards.
the wildlife is stunning but was told by other members of my tour group it is still not as jaw dropping as the safaris of Africa. the panther in particular is what the park is most proud of and they advertise them aggressively but do note that there’s like 33 of them in the park. so walk in with the expectation you don’t see it. the rest of the key animals you should be able to spot them
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Stilt Fisherman
4.4
/5
90 reviews
6.0
36.7 km from downtown
Phone +94 77 342 8674
Address: X8PH+3M9, Koggala, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Stilt fishing for sardines
Stilt fishermen's unique fishing skills
Verified User Reviews
Watching the stilt fishermen of Sri Lanka is like witnessing a living painting—grace, balance, and tradition suspended above the sea. Perched on slender poles as the sun dips low, these silent silhouettes tell a timeless story of resilience and harmony with nature. It’s not just fishing—it’s an art form passed down through generations, standing tall against tides and time. A truly humbling and poetic glimpse into coastal life that stays with you long after the waves fade.
Watching the Stilt Fisherman in Sri Lanka is a fascinating cultural experience. Their unique fishing technique on stilts above the waves is mesmerising, especially with the stunning beaches and turquoise waters as the backdrop. It’s a perfect blend of traditional and natural beauty-definitely a must-see!
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Whale watching Mirissa with Geeth
4.7
/5
28 reviews
5.9
33.7 km from downtown
Phone +94 77 637 6714
Address: Harbour Road, Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
No.2 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Southern Province
Highlights:
Whale & dolphin migration viewing
Over 95% chance of seeing
53% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
"Had an amazing whale watching experience in Mirissa with Geeth! His expertise and passion for marine life made the trip unforgettable. We were fortunate enough to see majestic blue whales and playful dolphins up close. Geeth's knowledge and commitment to sustainability made us feel comfortable and informed throughout the tour. The entire experience was well-organized, and the stunning views of the ocean were just the cherry on top. Highly recommend this tour if you're ever in Mirissa – a must-d
I went there expecting to see nothing, because it felt like looking for a needle in a haystack. In the end, I was especially grateful to the captain for his perseverance. I saw hundreds of dolphins returning. The crew kept looking for whales in the vast ocean. Everyone thought there was no hope today, but they found a group of whales and the ethereal sound of whales that can only be seen in documentaries. It was a pity that I didn't take a photo. It was an amazing day! It was worth it!
No.
4
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Galle Fort Clock Tower
4.6
/5
15 reviews
5.0
43 km from downtown
Address: Galle Fort Clock Tower, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 hour
Highlights:
Ancient clock still precisely works
Clock tower view: walls & greenery
Verified User Reviews
Galle Fort is one of the iconic attractions in Sri Lanka. There is a very nice town here. There is a landmark clock tower and a lighthouse by the sea. It is pretty good. Overall, it is worth visiting together.
Galle Fort has a history of four or five hundred years. It has been preserved since the Dutch colonial period. The symbol of Galle Fort on the clock tower is one of the most famous attractions in the area. It is surrounded by the sea on three sides and guards the fortress. The scenery is particularly good.
No.
5
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Mangrove Cave
4.3
/5
30 reviews
4.7
55.9 km from downtown
Phone +94 72 146 0034
Address: 183/A Galle Rd, Balapitiya, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
Explore mangroves & make spices
Traditional fishing & mangrove ecology
30% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
@🇱🇰 Sri Lanka, Bentota
🛶 Boat Tour Maduganga Lake Mangrove Cave
The mangroves grow in a special ecosystem in tropical and subtropical coastal zones. The mangroves have well-developed root systems. They are submerged by the sea at high tide and form a lush forest at low tide. The cruise ship will pass under the bridge and under the railway tracks, and tourists occasionally need to lower their heads and lie down. This is the entrance of the Madu River into the Indian Ocean. It is also a holy place for bird watching, and there are many aquatic animals such as lizards, crocodiles, monkeys, birds and jellyfish. During the process, you can also go to a small island to see the production method of a local spice. In addition, you can experience activities such as catching crabs and fishing therapy in the mangroves and enjoy the beauty and excitement of nature.
Among the several mangroves around the coastline of Sri Lanka, an island country in the Indian Ocean, the Bangtota Mangrove is the most original, the largest and the most ornamental.
Mangroves refer to woody plant communities growing in tidal flats and wetlands on tropical and subtropical coastlines. They are a special ecosystem that transitions from land to sea. They are named because the bark and trunks of their main tree species are reddish-brown.
The Bangtota Mangrove is located at the mouth of the Madu River, 80 kilometers south of Colombo. It has crisscrossing rivers, winding coasts and numerous islands. It is like a sea, a river and a lake.
When boating on the water, the swaying coconut trees and intertwined red roots show the beauty of the original ecology; the houses on the island and the wooden sheds in the water tell the hardships of the workers; the waves of yachts and the ripples of canoes enjoy the gifts of nature...
I never thought that the most eye-catching thing was the monkeys. The boy paddling a canoe, holding a black-haired monkey in his arms, approached the yacht and paid 200 rupees to hug the monkey. The monkey was photogenic, but the boy was a little timid...
No.
6
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Sea Turtle Hatchery - Habaraduwa
4.1
/5
40 reviews
4.7
Based on 374 reviews
37.9 km from downtown
Phone +94 77 783 6115
Address: Silvergreen, Habaraduwa 80630, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 hour
Highlights:
Observe turtle nesting June-October
Released 500,000 turtles in 36 years
27% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Sri Lanka's long coastal beaches are often visited by sea turtles. To protect this rare animal in the world, the government has funded the construction of a number of non-profit sea turtle hatcheries along the coast, which are responsible for collecting sea turtle eggs on the beach, hatching baby sea turtles, adopting disabled sea turtles, and are open to tourists for a fee.
I walked into a hatchery, which was not very large. On one side was a sand altar, where small lives were nurtured under small sand bags, and small wooden signs marked the species and hatching start time of the small lives; on one side was a row of courtyards, where groups of small sea turtles and disabled turtles were raised in pools and water tanks. Take a look and learn a lot.
Tips: Sea turtles are oviparous animals, and the incubation period varies from 48 to 65 days for different species. After birth, boys are released into the sea after 6 months and girls after 3 years.
It is a place worth visiting. Many people bring their children here to play. You can see the whole process of a turtle from an egg to a big turtle. It is very interesting and also a place of great environmental significance.
No.
7
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Galle Dutch Fort
4.7
/5
285 reviews
4.2
Based on 302 reviews
43 km from downtown
Address: Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
No.2 of Water fun & Cool Retreats in Southern Province
Highlights:
Historic 16th-century Portuguese castle
Warehouse maritime museum: maps & models
100 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Absolutely enamored by the rich history and stunning architecture of Galle Fort in Sri Lanka. The well-preserved colonial buildings and charming cobblestone streets make it a must-see destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The panoramic views of the Indian Ocean from the ramparts are unparalleled. A truly magical experience!
Wonderful Place and easy to go fromColombo. you can just go by Train or taxi or Tuktuk or bus. Also there is no entrance fees for Tourist.
No.
8
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Hikkaduwa Beach
4.7
/5
52 reviews
4.1
Based on 2,421 reviews
50.4 km from downtown
Phone +94-77-2287046
Address: Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours
No.1 of Water fun & Cool Retreats in Southern Province
Highlights:
70s hippie vibe & homestay
World-famous diving & surfing spot
39% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Hikkaduwa Beach, and I must say it left an unforgettable impression on me. This beautiful beach destination, located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its great surfing conditions, high waves, and breathtaking sunsets. Here's my review of Hikkaduwa Beach.One of the standout features of Hikkaduwa Beach is its reputation as a surfer's paradise. If you're a fan of riding the waves, this is the place to be. The consistent swells and high waves make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. Whether you're looking to catch your first wave or conquer a challenging break, Hikkaduwa Beach offers an exhilarating surfing experience that won't disappoint.The beach itself is simply stunning. The powdery golden sand stretches along the coast, inviting visitors to relax and soak up the sun. The crystal-clear turquoise waters provide a refreshing escape from the heat, and the surrounding palm trees create a picturesque backdrop. Hikkaduwa Beach is well-maintained and clean, making it a pleasant environment for beachgoers.One of the highlights of my visit to Hikkaduwa Beach was witnessing the mesmerizing sunsets. As the sun begins its descent, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting an awe-inspiring picture. Watching the sun sink below the horizon while casting its warm glow on the waves is a truly magical experience. I highly recommend staying until dusk to witness the beauty of the Hikkaduwa Beach sunset.In terms of amenities, Hikkaduwa Beach offers a range of facilities to ensure visitors have a comfortable stay. There are several surf schools and rental shops available, providing equipment and lessons for those looking to learn or improve their surfing skills. Additionally, you'll find a variety of beachfront restaurants and cafes, offering delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages.Ho
It is very close from Galle Fort to Hikkaduwa Beach. Not only can you enjoy the beautiful sea view, but also the beautiful sea and sky. If you are lucky, you can also enjoy the very special fishing method of the locals.
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