Sri Lanka’s splendiferous natural beauty, historic monuments, and amazing spiritual legacy are the stuff of dreams for the adventure-hungry traveler. From Colombo to Galle, from Jaffna to Kandy, you can have a hectic time uncovering a slew of exciting things to thrill you to bits.

Exploring the historic sites of Kandy, not on foot, but from a hot air balloon at sunrise, is worth the highs, literally and figuratively, you are going to encounter as you float above the city skyline. Savor unforgettably dramatic bird’s-eye views of the Sigiriya Rock, Dambulla with the beautiful lake of Kandalama and the Minneriya National Park with its great elephant herds.

Head for the secluded stretch of Weligama Bay to get your first few lessons in surfing. You are sure to be hooked on this water sport because not only will you be doing so in some of the friendliest waves in the world, but your experience will also be excellent because you will be learning from qualified surf coaches.

Some of the most captivating moments on your Sri Lankan sojourn have to be from the time you spend at the Elephant Foundation at Kegalle, 36 km from Kandy. This rescue and care camp opens a window to the world of these gentle giants as you set off on an exclusive ‘Elephant Walk’, a personal safari with these majestic creatures around the estate. You can even volunteer to prepare and give them their feed, vitamins, and medicines.

Take off from Koggala on a 3-seater Cessna with an experienced pilot, over the picturesque southern coastline, for the most mind-blowing aerial whale watching experience. You will be amazed at how quickly you will be able to cover lots of areas and easily find pods of whales and dolphins.

Visiting the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa offers two impressive perspectives of Sri Lanka’s cultural and wilderness heritage. Not only have these atmospheric ruins been carefully preserved for posterity, the three species of primates — the purple-faced leaf monkey, toque macaque and the grey langurs, for whom they are home, through the eyes of a primate researcher, offer incredible insights into their own unique world.

Deep sea fishing at Weligama Bay with an experienced crew is just the ticket if you want to pack in some very rewarding moments in a short time, whether you are a beginner or quite an expert. The waters here are rich with many species, including wahoo, Spanish mackerel, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, grouper, snapper and mahi mahi or even swordfish and marlins.