The beautiful Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka has long fascinated travellers from all over the world, drawn by its beautiful landscape and vibrant cultural heritage, but the island is now developing a reputation as a paradise for active holidaymakers.

The island is strikingly diverse, combining beautiful beaches and lush jungle with elegant colonial cities and ancient ruins.

Opportunities for active travellers are wide ranging – the island offers great water sports and fantastic cycling and walking too.

Sri Lanka’s waters are perfect for scuba diving and the island has many PADI qualified diving schools from which to explore the island’s reefs.

One the island’s most famous attractions is Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, a past capital city of the island, which towers above the surrounding jungle on a 600 foot rock.

The former fortress of King Kashyapa features ancient rock paintings and sculptures and offers breathtaking views across the jungle.

Sigiriya can be accessed on foot by a stiff three hour climb and should fulfill the most adventurous of travellers.

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