Water
sports
Operators at the main resorts offer diving expeditions
and supply equipment. Sri Lanka has more than 1,600 kilometres or 1,000 miles of fine beaches
and several swimming clubs which are great for water sport lovers and swimmers.
There are also yachting and water
skiing. Windsurfing is a
popular sport, and facilities are available in Kalutara, Bentota,
Beruwela and Negombo.
Sport fishing is
also popular, and several clubs offer membership to visitors.
Wildlife
and flora
There are numerous animal, bird sanctuaries and
national parks where protected flora and fauna can be
seen. There are several distinctive species on the island, and some others have
been introduced. The country is renown for its elephants,
a large number of which can be viewed in Gal Oya and
Udawalawe National Parks and at Handapangala.
Some other mammals are leopards, deer and bears. Wild boars, monkeys
and porcupines, particularly the Grey Langur, which
is normally seen around the island.
The native purple-faced Leaf Monkeys can be seen
in the higher hill regions. Of the 38 species of amphibians, 16
are unique to Sri Lanka. Reptiles include many
snakes, 2 native crocodiles, the star tortoise and 5 species
of turtle. The 5 species of poisonous snakes are infrequently existent
in towns and villages.
The flora varies grandly, ranging from temperate
to tropical forests and from arid scrub land and plains to lush
hills. There are tropical rain forests including rhododendron forests. Flowering trees
and orchids can be seen in season.
There are also rugby,
cricket, hockey, football, tennis,
squash and other games. Visit
a local Travel Information Centre for more details.
Membership is available on a temporary basis at several golf
courses. |
