Saturday, July 11, 2009

Adventures





Scuba Diving Adventures

Sri Lankan warm seas house thousands of marine species for the fascination of any scuba diver. The recreational coral reefs around the island range from depth 5-10 meters to 40 meters. Many ancient wrecks, caves and special reef formations will make a diver to experience best of Scuba Diving. The diving centers and training schools are equipped with latest scuba gear and internationally qualified instructors.

White Water Rafting
Sri Lanka has four main rivers and countless tributaries suitable for rafting and kayaking. Three of the biggest rivers are born in the heart of the peak wilderness; the Kalu Ganga, Walawe Ganga and the Kelani River that tumbles through a rocky gorge just above Kitulgala is one that is very popular for rafting.

The Kalu Ganga with grade 4-5 rapids that passes through magnificent jungle scenery as it makes its way to the south coast. The Walawe Ganga is a grade 2 river flowing through Uda Walawe National Park so adventure can be combined with wildlife viewing as this park provides prime elephant viewing.

The Mahaweli is Sri Lanka’s largest river with rapids ranging from level 2-6 along a challenging descent through the hill country to the eastern plains. The river has two dams along its route and offers controlled grade 2 –5 sections as well as fluctuating grade 3-6 tributaries.

Surfing

With a wide range of excellent Surfing locations on both the east and southwest coast (each suitable at different times of year according to the monsoon seasons), Sri Lanka is a year-round surfing destination.

Sri Lanka has been recognised by the international surfing community for some time now, with the east coast's ARUGAMBAY boasting an annual International Surfing Competition. So whether you're an expert or a beginner looking to ride the white stuff for the first time, there's something for everyone!

Wind Surfing

For a real wind-surfer's paradise, head down to Benthota on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka where the exhilaration of cruising across the azure water overlooking the idyllic beach won't fail to disappoint. For beginners of windsurfing, the more tranquil waters of the Bentota river or any of Sri Lanka 's many tanks and lakes offer an ideal training zone before heading out to the challenge of the ocean. North of TRINCOMALEE , in the west coast of Sri Lanka , the sea off Nilaveli beach provides a fantastic east coast alternative for when the Yala monsoon brings strong winds and rough seas to the west. So whatever your level of experience, leave your wetsuit at the door and make the most of what Sri Lanka has to offer this exciting sport.

N.B. If venturing out on the south-west coastline, grab your sail and board between November and April before the monsoon hits. To ensure the best wind and water conditions on the east coast, go from May-October.

Water Sking

Water-Skiing is the ultimate rush on the water's surface! Whether you're a beginner who just wants to get round without too many falls or a well-seasoned water-sports fan, eager to check out slalom courses and jumps in Sri Lanka , you're guaranteed a good time! Full training, on dry land and in the water, is available for both beginners and those more experienced water-skiers who simply want to brush up on their style while on holiday in Sri Lanka . While you're there, why not have a go at jet-skiing and wake-boarding as well, or for maximum fun try bouncing along the water in a gigantic inflatable tyre!

Cycling and Mountain Biking

If you prefer cycling but aren't so keen on struggling with uphill climbs, there are many interesting trails in the lowlands of Sri Lanka that take you through a beautiful landscape of tea, rubber and spice plantations or even the ancient capital of POLONNARUWA . For those seeking more of a challenge, the Sri Lankan hill country locations offer a number of steeper trails that are only suitable for more experienced mountain bikers. Whatever your experience and fitness level, the diversity of Sri Lanka has something for everyone who wants to take part in the exhilarating activity of cycling and mountain biking! We can even arrange trips moving from one location to another (and transporting luggage by a support vehicle) – just let us know what you want to do and we'll help you do it!

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Imagine floating over some of Sri Lanka's dramatically varied landscape ranging from the ancient cities of the Cultural Triangle (such as SIGIRIYA ) to the wonders of the UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK (how else do you get to see the elephants from above?!) Hot Air Ballooning is a relatively new activity to Sri Lanka , but in response to the ongoing search for new and exciting ways of seeing the country, it provides a remarkable experience never to be forgotten. With no two flight paths the same, it really will be a unique journey.

All hot air balloons are manufactured in the UK , where balloon pilots are also trained by instructors licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka . Throughout the flight, an experienced ground crew (following the flight path in a jeep) are in constant communication with the pilot of the balloon, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. So all you need to do is relax, enjoy the peace and quiet and admire the views of Sri Lanka !

Kayaking and Canoeing

With 103 rivers and a wealth of swamps, lagoons and interconnected old canals, Sri Lanka provides no end of opportunities to try out Kayaking / canoeing, which are a different and relaxing mode of transportation. Sri Lanka 's famous KALU GANGA (aka Black River) flows from the heart of the island down to the west coast town of Kalutara where it finally meets the Indian Ocean . During a leisurely canoe trip down this beautiful river, canoeists can marvel at ever-changing landscapes and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna. For an alternative to river canoeing, head to one of the country's many vast tanks and reservoirs! The calm waters of the Samanalawewa reservoir in Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa province (easily accessible from BELIHULOYA ) provide an ideal setting for this slow-paced activity, and with the area's prolific birdlife and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, there's no end of things to see as you paddle.


Whales and Dolphin Watching

Sri Lanka is situated within the International Whaling Commission's protected zone in the Indian Ocean. Of the 80 species of cetaceans observed and identified worldwide, 26 are found in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. Whale and dolphin watching is a seasonal activity in Sri Lanka, available on the west coast in locations from KALPITIYA and along the SOUTH WEST COAST from November to March while the east coast off TRINCOMALEE is preferable from June to September.

We offer both boat and air based expeditions in Sri Lanka . For the boat trips, motorised boats and trawlers enable the guests to travel far out to sea and get to the natural habitats of the whales and dolphins. Air based expeditions are also available by helicopter or sea plane for an incredible aerial view of Sri Lanka.

N.B. As with all nature, we are unable to guarantee sightings of whales and dolphins, although the sites we offer are favoured as their habitats…