Discovering Sri Lanka off the beaten path
The Bundala National Park, home to the largest wetland in Sri Lanka, is famous for its rich birdlife, with nearly 200 bird species. Flamingos are the most numerous, with about 20,000 individuals. The park also hosts many crocodiles, elephants, and other animal species.
Jaffna, the capital of the northern province of Sri Lanka, is an important city for the Tamils. Former capital of the Jaffna kingdom, which reached its peak in the 14th century, it is dotted with many Hindu temples that fascinate Western visitors.
The south coast, especially around Mirissa, is ideal for whale watching between November and April. Arugam Bay, originally a small fishing village on the east coast, now attracts surfers from all over the world thanks to its exceptional waves.