Grab a fresh coconut and watch surfers glide across waves in Weligama or Hiriketiya. Wait quietly as elephants stomp past your vehicle and leopards hide in the jungle while on safari in Yala

If historical marvels are more your vibe, don’t miss Sigiriya. This ancient rock fortress, built atop a giant granite rock, dates back more than 1,500 years and is exactly as mind-blowing as it sounds. Climb over 1,200 stairs to the top or hike neighbouring Pidurangala Rock for unobstructed views of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

The late Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect, spent about 50 years at his country estate, Lunuganga, on the banks of Dedduwa Lake. Now managed by Teardrop Hotels, Bawa’s home is open for bookings. The restaurant looks over sprawling gardens and the lake below. Doubles start at $205 in the high season.