Start your journey from Colombo and make a stop at the Aluthgama Kande Viharaya Temple. Kande Viharaya (meaning “Temple on the Hill”) is a historic Buddhist temple located in Aluthgama, in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka. It is one of the most revered and prominent temples in the southern coastal region, famous for its spiritual significance, rich heritage, and magnificent structures.
The temple was founded in 1734 by the venerable Karapagala Dewamitta Thero, a respected Buddhist monk of that era. It was established during the reign of King Sri Vijaya Rajasinghe of Kandy. The temple was built atop a small hill, which gave it the name “Kande Viharaya” (Kande = Hill, Viharaya = Temple). Continue the journey to the Bentota Beach just 5 minutes away.

Turtle Hatchery

The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery—established in 1981—is one of the oldest and most renowned turtle conservation projects in the country. It is especially notable for housing all five species of sea turtles found on Sri Lankan shores. While it primarily functions as a hatchery, the Kosgoda project goes beyond hatching to actively support long-term turtle conservation. It offers a variety of educational activities and volunteer programmes, allowing both locals and international visitors to learn about the hatching process and participate in efforts to protect these endangered creatures.

Madu River Boat Safari

The Madu River is located in the Balapitiya area of southern Sri Lanka, about 80 km south of Colombo. It is home to a rich mangrove ecosystem, with over 300 plant species and many species of birds, fish, and reptiles. The river and its surrounding area form a Ramsar-protected wetland — an internationally recognised area for ecological importance. The river has over 25 small islands, including ones with temples, cinnamon plantations, and fish therapy spas. One famous island hosts the ancient Kothduwa Temple, which is only accessible by boat.

Moonstone Mine

The Moonstone Mine located in Meetiyagoda, near Ambalangoda on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, is the only known active moonstone mine in the world.

What Makes It Special:

Moonstone is a semi-precious gemstone known for its shimmering, milky glow — a visual effect called adularescence.
Sri Lankan moonstones, especially the blue-hued ones, are considered among the finest in the world.
Meetiyagoda's soil is rich in feldspar, the mineral that forms moonstone.

Galle Dutch Fort

Galle Fort is a historic fortress located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, in the city of Galle. It is one of the most iconic and well-preserved colonial-era forts in Asia, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

• Built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century.
• Reflects a unique blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions.
• Enclosed by thick granite ramparts and bastions, designed to protect against invasions and natural disasters.