Dondra Devalaya - Distance 10km. The shrine was dedicated to Hindu god Vishnu at Devinuwara and is a very popular attraction. The temple is the major event site of an annual festival held in July/August. 

Mulkirigala Vihara Rock Temple - Distance 82 km. One of Sri Lanka's oldest holy sites visited by several thousands of pilgrims annually. The different levels of caves with both reclining and sitting Buddha’s and ancient paintings depicting Buddhist philosophy are awe inspiring and some of the best in Sri Lanka.

Weherahena Vihara - Distance 12km. This 39m high Buddha statue was painted with very bright colours to attract positive energy. The temple site, much of which is underground, tells hundreds of ancient stories. There you can also see the shrine room in which the walls are decorated with murals depicting the Buddha’s life. 

Wewurkannala Vihara - Distance 13km. Wewurukannala Vihara is one of the most amazing Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is dominated by the image of a seated Buddha. At 160 feet high, it is the tallest statue in Sri Lanka, dating back to the time of King Rajadhi (1782-1798). 

Kataragama - Distance 125km. Sri Lanka’s spiritual core, Kataragama is around 2 hours east of Talalla Retreat. Take a drive there and watch the devotees take puja, smashing burning coconuts onto giant boulders.

Bundala National Park - Distance 80km. A shimmering oasis of mangroves and coastal lakes, this watery haven is a birders paradise! Home to thousands of migratory birds including flamingo, over 150 bird species live in this Ramsar Certified National Park. You may also see crocodiles, elephants, and in season, sea turtles dancing through the rough waters.

Sea Turtle Protection Hatchery at Rekawa - Distance 35km. Watch as giant sea turtles lay up to 500 eggs, or as tiny baby turtles hatch and scurry into the ocean. Take a taxi or tuk tuk to Rekawa, where a dedicated team of volunteers ensures the safety of both turtle and egg. Our favourite thing to do!

Uda Walawe National Park - Distance 80km. Comprising approximately 30 000 hectares of marshes, forests and grasslands elephants sightings here are guaranteed. There’s also an abundance of birdlife, deer, crocodiles, and if you’re lucky – even leopards. Nearby is the elephant rehabilitation center, where you can watch the baby ellie’s feed and shower – gorgeous!

Yala National Park - Distance 90km. Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s premier tourist destinations. Leopards are regularly sighted along with elephants, jackals, monkeys and an abundance of birdlife. Tours depart at either 0400 or 1100, and include transport, entrance fees and 3.5 hour jeep safari. Please enquire at Front Desk for more information.

Blue Whales and Dolphins from Mirissa - Distance 20km. The south coast of Sri Lanka is one of the best sites in the world for seeing Blue and Sperm whales. Guests depart at 0530 to Mirissa to take a boat which will track the path of the whales. Boats seldom go out during monsoon season. We use ‘Raja & The Whales’, as the most ecologically responsible tour operator.

Elephant Orphanage - 8 hour round trip

Sinharaja Nature Reserve - Distance 85km. Take a walk through Sri Lanka’s last viable remnant of tropical lowland rainforest at World Heritage listed Sinharaja. Bright green lizards hide in the foliage, and snakes can be seen under-foot. We’ll arrange a tracker to guide you through the forest and take you for a swim under a waterfall to cool off in the heat of the day.

Being located on the southern most point of Sri Lanka there is always a surf spot. Our surf lessons go for 90 minutes with an experienced instructor and are for all levels.