Traditional masks have played an important role in Sri Lankan culture and folklore for centuries. Used for both theatrical performances and rituals, these masks are carefully handcrafted by skilled craftsmen who have learnt the art from their forefathers. The Ariyapala Mask Museum in Ambalangoda is an excellent way of learning and understanding mask making that is unique to Sri Lanka. The museum has a workshop and library which is specifically designed to introduce the richness of the mask tradition of Ambalangoda.

Brief Gardens are the architectural landscaping masterpiece of Bevis Bawa, the brother of iconic Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Although often overshadowed by Lunuganga, the country house and gardens designed by Geoffrey, Brief Gardens are spectacular and are a wonderful place to spend a morning or afternoon if you fancy a change from the beach.

Brief Gardens are just 10km inland from Bentota. Visit the old house, which has an eclectic range of artwork on display, including a mural of traditional Sri Lankan life in the style of Marc Chagall and a variety of pieces painted by local artists. After seeing the house, explore the beautiful Japanese-style gardens, a mesmerising, barely-controlled riot of tropical splendour which spreads across two acres. Australian artist Donald Friend famously came to Brief for one week, but stayed for six years as he believed he had discovered paradise.

Located just past the bridge in Kalutara, this Buddhist temple built in the 1960s is easily accessed from its roadside location. The gigantic white Dagoba is believed to contain sacred relics of the Buddha. There are also interesting murals that depicts the life story of Buddha. The narrow windows below these murals provide for panoramic views of the Bentota

Globally, all seven species of marine turtles are endangered. Of these seven, five come ashore to nest in Sri Lanka. The process of marine turtles nesting, hatchlings being born, and swimming back to sea is fascinating to observe. The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which primary operates as a hatchery, is a great place to observe collected and rescued eggs hatch and then safely released into the sea.

Sri Lanka’s western, southern and eastern coastal belts are prime spots for scuba diving. Swim through the alluring turquoise water in the shallows and watch colourful tropical fish dart through the intricate corals, before heading out to the deeper waters of the Indian Ocean and diving in search of exotic marine creatures and looming shipwrecks. Many of the reefs are located offshore and you will need to head out to sea with a boat and a licensed guide to find the best dive spots. The monsoon weather patterns in Sri Lanka ensure that one half of the island’s coastal waters are always in season for diving, snorkelling, and swimming with good underwater visibility (which ranges from about 50 to 100 feet).

Scuba diving in Sri Lanka is immensely rewarding off the north-west coast near Kalpitiya, around Hikkaduwa and Bentota and along the south coast all the way up to Yala. Scuba diving in these locations is possible during the season between December and May. There is also the opportunity to do scuba diving in Trincomalee, a coastal town in the north-east which boasts beautiful beaches of white sand and azure waves. This is possible between May and September when the east coast seas come into season.

Sri Lanka’s surrounding Indian Ocean waters are ideal for windsurfing, and the monsoon weather patterns are such that one half of the island’s coastal waters are always in season for water-sports. The west coast town of Bentota is popular for windsurfing with water and wind conditions best during the season from November to April. Negombo in the north-west is also great for windsurfing in Sri Lanka, as it has inland lagoons and lakes. Windsurfers can also head to Trincomalee on the east coast if they are in Sri Lanka between July and August. On the East coast the best winds are from July to August when windsurfers head to Trincomalee. Windsurfing in Sri Lanka is also possible inland on lagoons and lakes in Negombo, Bolgoda and Bentota