About Sri Lanka

Facts and Figures

Sri Lanka, an island in the Indian Ocean is located to the South of the Indian subcontinent. It lies between 5 55’ and 9 55’ North of the equator and between the Eastern longitudes 79 42’ and 81 52. The total land area is 65,610 sq km and is astonishingly varied. A length of 445 km and breadth of 225 km encompasses beautiful tropical beaches, verdant vegetation, ancient monuments and a thousand delights to please all tastes. The relief features of the island consist of a mountainous mass somewhat south of the centre, with height exceeding 2,500 meters, surrounded by broad plains. Palm fringed beaches surround the island and the sea temperature rarely fall below 27 C.

The Land

Sri Lanka lies 10 degrees North of the Equator and South East of India, separated from it by the Gulf of Mannar, Palk’s Bay and Palk Strait, which at its narrowest point, Rameswaram in India and the Jaffna Peninsula, is less than 80 km wide. The sea crossing between Rameswaram in India, and Mannar Island, off the North-West coast of Sri Lanka, is only around 32km.

There is evidence of a natural land bridge connecting Sri Lanka with India at this point, and indeed this vanished causeway, only a few meters below sea level, is still known as Adam’s Bridge. This close proximity to the subcontinent has meant that Sri Lanka’s history and ecology have always been exposed to strong influences from its larger neighbour.


  • Pristine

    Unawatuna - "The World's best beaches - National Geographic" Golden beaches a washed with aquamarine waves & eternal sunshine

  • Heritage

    Sigiriya - "Eighth Wonder of World" Enter a time when men tamed the rocks, filled oceans & built cities in the sky

  • Thrills

    Arugambay - "The surfing capital of the world" Adventures from the tops of the mountains to the depths of the oceans

  • Wild

    Yala - "The highest density of leopards in the world" A wild and untamed Sri Lanka filled with natural wonders

  • Bliss

    Sri Lanka Ayurvedha - "Rejuvenate with Ayurvedhic medicine" For a mind free of its cankers and a body free of its pains

  • Scenic

    Ceylon Tea - "The World's first ethical Tea produce" Discover a country filled with the essence of a paradise

About Hikkaduwa

The beach of Hikkaduwa is situated 98 km from Colombo towards the south of Sri Lanka. This fun coastal town, 14 km away from Galle was the first (1960’s) of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches to be discovered by tourists. Snorkelling and diving in the clear waters are a major past-time along this stretch and is the most environmentally friendly way to see the colourful fish that dart around. The coral sanctuary found along the coast of Hikkaduwa is a large shallow body of water enclosed by a reef, decorated with layers of multi coloured corals, and is home to countless numbers of vibrantly coloured fish. Off the beach there is a collection of small islets surrounded by beautiful coral formations. Many species of fish and large turtles are found here. There are more than four different shipwrecks for diving enthusiasts to explore along with dive shops offering PADI courses and equipment.

The area is not overcrowded but there are many tourists and locals during the peak season. Since its a coral reef, it is always advisable for travellers to be safe than sorry. Do not feel intimidated by the locals although there might be instances that you are hassled. There are many shops selling Masks, Gems, Jewellery, Batik, Antiques and etc. along with several Buddhist temples, all which add spice to life at Hikkaduwa.

Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens

Hikkaduwa, a popular tourist destination in the Galle District is renowned for its beach and corals. The Coral Garden here is considered to be the best out of all such coral gardens found in Asia. There is a reef of lime stones running parallel to the coast. The corals are in between this line of lime stones and the coast. The sea up to about 200 m from the coastline is very shallow.

The reef of lime stones protects the corals from high tide. The coral type found mostly here is the type locally called “Gampara”. These corals are found in various forms, shapes and colours. They are a very fascinating sight especially when there is bright sunlight which gives a very clear view of the corals. You see some corals in the shape of a cabbage leaf; some are shaped like a lady’s fan. Since there is no silt, corals can grow in their natural form and colour.

Surfing in Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is one of the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka, offering a clear warm water base. The wave sizes range from 4-11 feet. Surfing in theHikkaduwa region is quite well known and gets the best surf during its dry season, which is from November to March. There are 4 main surf points inHikkaduwa.