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Telegraph
03-08-2025
- Telegraph
The 23 best things to do in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's diversity is reflected in the wide variety of things to do and see, from relic-rich cultural sites, atmosphere-laden temples, colonial-era forts, wildlife reserves home to elephants, leopards and sloth bears, and acres of lush tea plantations. There are cycling routes, scenic walks and opportunities to surf, paddleboard and raft along pristine rainforest-edged rivers. Plus cookery classes, hosted foodie tours and history walks for those keen to learn a little more about the culture of this welcoming nation and meet some friendly locals. All our recommendations below have been hand-selected and tested by our resident destination expert to help you discover the best things to do in Bali. Find out more below, or for more Sri Lanka inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars and beaches. Find things to do by type: Best for families Idle Bikes bicycle rides Uncover Galle's hinterland on two wheels These tours are as culturally enriching as they are a way to let off steam, as you discover a rural world of centuries-old temples, paddy fields and nature reserves. Guides are warm, well-spoken and eager to point out kingfishers, langur monkeys, peacocks and dinosaur-like monitor lizards to the delight of younger riders. Bicycles are well-maintained and there are baby seats, tag-alongs and junior bikes. Insider tip: Ask to add a clay-potted feast of traditionally-cooked rice and curry at Tiger Hill Rock – Idle's three-acre paddy-view garden home to resident hornbills and tropical trees. South coast surfing Seek out southern surfing spots Sri Lanka is a firmly established surfing destination with breaks to suit all ages and abilities, plus a raft of options for inexpensive lessons and board hire. Head to Weligama's sandy bay if you're a beginner, or Ahangama and Midigama for more serious surfing. The southern surf season is from November to April (after which the focus turns to the east coast's Arugam Bay). Insider tip: Stay in one of Shoreditch-meets-Sri Lanka boutique hotel PALM 's A-Frame cabanas (or the more substantial three-bedroom Palm Haus) and you'll get 10 per cent off surf lessons (with post-surf video analysis) at top-rated local surf school Ticket To Ride. Scenic train journeys Ride the hilly Main Line Railway One of the best ways to experience Sri Lanka's vertiginous hill country is to hop on the scenic Main Line Railway. Focus on the dramatic two-and-a-half-hour stretch between Nanu Oya and Demodara, which passes Pattipola Station (at 6,225ft/1,897m, this is the railway's highest point), tea estates, cloud forests and terraced farmland, and takes you over the Nine Arches Bridge. Insider tip: This is a popular route, and tickets for reserved seats sell out quickly. It's marginally quieter (which means more chance of getting tickets) if you travel from east to west. Travel west from Hali Ela if you'd also like to experience Demodara's 360-degree sub-station loop. Uda Walawe National Park Elephant-spotting in the south You're almost guaranteed to spy wild elephants amongst the grassy plains of Uda Walawe, backed by the misty hills of the Southern Highlands. Children will enjoy seeing maternal herds and tussling calves from customised open-sided jeeps (available for hire at the entrance), alongside a supporting cast of water buffalo, crocodiles, deer and more than 200 bird species. Insider tip: Uda Walawe is within easy day-tripping distance of southern beaches such as Hiriketiya and Mawella, and an afternoon safari here is a good way to break up the long journey between Weligama or Galle and the southern hills. Address: Uda Walawe. The main entrance is located off Thanamalvila Road, five miles east of the Uda Walawe Reservoir. Opening hours: Daily, 5.30am to 6.30pm (the ticket counter closes at 5pm) Price: ££ Mask making in Galle Fort Craft your own kolam mask Sri Lanka's colourful, balsa-wood masks grace doorways and souvenir stalls across the island, and at workshops within Galle Fort's Sudharmalaya Buddhist temple, you can craft your own. Your host will demonstrate how to chisel the soft wood into traditional kolam (folk) characters – children can sculpt or paint ready-made masks depending on their age. Insider tip: There are mask museums in the west coast town of Ambalangoda, an hour's drive from Galle, but to see the kolam masks in action, ask social enterprise Ceylon Soul to organise a puppetry play. White water rafting in Kithulgala Adventures along the jungle-edged Kelani River The Kelani River, Sri Lanka's fourth longest, originates in Adam's Peak and passes adventure hub Kithulgala on its journey to the ocean. From this hamlet, enveloped by rainforest and mist-wrapped hills, rafting trips voyage a four-mile section of the river, navigating class two and three rapids, as well as languid stretches where you can jump in for a swim. Insider tip: There are many rafting operators in Kithulgala, but Borderlands is the longest-standing, takes safety seriously and has well-trained instructors. They also offer canyoning as a tag-on, where you can abseil and creep along crevices. Best free things to do Discover Galle Fort Potter around a 17th-century fortress You don't need a ticket to enter the 130-acre Galle Fort, one of Sri Lanka's eight World Heritage Sites. Its heady, incense-perfumed grid of streets is a joy to explore. For the best views, walk atop the mighty Indian Ocean-washed ramparts in a clockwise direction from behind the Galle Dutch Hospital – a restored colonial building which is now a popular shopping district – to its wider western basions, home to grazing cattle, daring cliff jumpers and impromptu afternoon cricket games. Insider tip: The fort's northern bastions, Sun and Moon, loom above Galle's International Test Cricket Stadium. This is a great (and free) place to view a match. For big games, hawkers conveniently appear, selling beers, local snacks and ice creams. Climb Adam's Peak Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims You need determination, not rupees, to summit 2,300-metre-high Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka's fourth-highest mountain and sacred pilgrimage spot for all four of Sri Lanka's religions. Marked by a temple, which protects a footprint-shaped indentation, you start the rewarding (yet tough) three-hour climb at night from the village of Nallathanniya, also known as Dalhousie, aiming to reach the top for sunrise. Insider tip: Start early to avoid the inevitable bottleneck as you approach the temple and bring warm socks (and layers) to wear at the top, as it can feel very cold. Area: Dalhousie, Central Highlands Contact: Freelance guide Mohamed Nawas Thalal (known to locals as Jim), for a local-led walk; 0094 77 062 3147 Opening times: n/a (but best between December to May) Chase waterfalls Paddle in crystal-clear mountain pools The summit of the 220-metre veil of water of Diyaluma Falls (Sri Lanka's second tallest), found in the island's mid-hills, secretes a series of pools for paddling with views of forested hills. It's a 30-minute walk through swaying grass from the trailhead (and tuk tuk drop-off point) off the B236 near Poonagala to the upper pools, where a path descends to rock-hewn ponds with an infinity edge. Insider tip: Stay at Living Heritage Koslanda, less than a mile away, and ask them to package up a picnic of rice and curry (or sandwiches) and organise tuk tuks. Area: Badulla Website:. Opening times: n/a Return to index Best for cultural immersion Polonnaruwa Tour an exquisite ancient city You could visit either one of Sri Lanka's Unesco-protected ancient cities (the other being Anuradhapura), though Polonnaruwa's site is shady, more compact and its treasured collection of Buddha statues, ruined temples, palaces and tombs is much better preserved. Hire bicycles at the entrance for peddling around the grassy site and beyond to Gal Vihara's four serene rock-carved Buddhas. Insider tip: Nature lovers can join researchers from the Smithsonian Primate Research Centre on a 5.30am or 7.30am walking tour in Polonnaruwa (£63 per person; excludes entry tickets to Polonnaruwa). Address: The main entrance is off Polonnaruwa Road, but you'll need to buy your ticket first at the museum, half a mile to the south. Opening times: 7am to 6pm daily Price: ££ Summit Sigiriya Hike to the top of a former rocktop palace Thanks to the 1,200-odd steps, a hike to the summit of the 180-metre granite so-called Lion's Rock will get your heart racing, as will the 360-degree views from the ruins of the short-lived palace at its peak (best at sunrise). Places to pause on the way up include a 'Mirror Wall' with centuries-old graffiti, a pair of giant brick lion's paws and the fifth-century frescoes of bare-breasted maidens. Insider tip: For equally impressive panoramas and fewer crowds, take a dawn hike up neighbouring rock Pidurangala to watch the sun ascend over Sigiriya. Book through Pepper, who can arrange a guide and breakfast picnic worthy of the views. Address: The ticket office is close to the main entrance, three miles northeast of Kimbissa. Opening times: 5am to 6.30pm daily (last tickets issued at 5pm) Price: ££ Dambulla's Cave Temples Serene art-adorned caves The artistry of these five cave temples eked out of a 160-metre-high granite outcrop is quite astonishing. Murals cover nearly every undulating curve and crevice, while elegantly carved statues of the Buddha, his disciples and former kings, are particularly dramatic in the largest, Cave 2. It's best to work backwards, starting from Cave 5 (leaving the best two for last). Insider tip: There are two routes to the top (20-30 minutes' walk each) – neither is particularly easier than the other and both involve flights of stairs. You must remove your shoes at the summit, so bring socks if you would prefer not to walk barefoot. Address: The ticket office is located opposite the Rangiripaya Temple and a large car park. Opening times: 7am to 7pm daily (ticket counter closes at 5.30pm) Price: ££ Nallur Kandaswamy Visit Jaffna's most vibrant Hindu kovil Much of the culture of Sri Lanka's far north has been influenced by its proximity to India, and this vast temple dedicated to Lord Murugan opens your eyes to the region's Tamil Hindu culture. Ornate passageways and life-sized murals transport you to another realm. It feels deeply peaceful, even during the immersive cacophony of pooja, when bells, chanting and heady incense permeate the air (occurring seven times a day). Insider tip: You'll learn a lot more by booking Visit Nallur Like a Local, whose Tamil host talks you through Hindu rituals and points out key sights inside. Footwear must be removed and men must enter bare-chested (women should cover their shoulders and legs). Address: Kovil Road, Nallur, around two miles northeast of Jaffna Fort. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday: 4am to 5.30am, 7.30am to 12.30pm, 3pm to 6pm. Fridays: 4am to 6pm. Price: Free (donations appreciated) Walk with a Veddha Discovery walks with a local chieftain Sri Lanka's first inhabitants were forest-dwelling Veddas, who still exist in small tribes in the island's remote eastern jungles. Their way of life is fascinating yet fragile, so village visits are discouraged. Instead, follow an axe-wielding chieftain on an ethical walk through their farmland and hunting grounds, as he points out medicinal herbs, foods for foraging and ancient caves. Insider tip: This is one of a number of local experiences (others include jungle picnics, viewpoint treks and boat safaris where you might see elephants) curated by off-grid Gal Oya Lodge, which uncovers a rarely visited part of the island. Return to index Best for nature and adventure Hot air ballooning Bird's eye views of the Cultural Triangle Float above vast paddy fields, flag-festooned villages and coconut palms, with potential views of Dambulla's Golden Buddha and Sigiriya (if the wind's in your favour), on these balloon flights that launch from the Kandalama Lake. Flights usually start high (often grazing clouds – if there are any) before descending low enough for you to pick out tree-jumping monkeys, grazing water buffalo and playgrounds of surprised, waving school children. Insider tip: Many families enjoy this experience; however, the intermittent roar of the burner could frighten children. Consider also the height of the basket – children less than 4 feet tall will not be able to see out (and they cannot be held). Whale watching Seeking out whales responsibly Sri Lanka's seas harbour a vast repository of marine life, including spinner dolphins, marine turtles and blue and sperm whales. Mirissa is the most reliable (but busiest) place to spot whales (from December to April), though you can also see them from Trincomalee (May to September). Choose a responsible operator like Sail Lanka Charter, which covers both regions. Insider tip: Book Sail Lanka Charter' s modern catamaran exclusively for a seven-hour charter, which starts with cetacean-seeking before sailing back towards shore for free time snorkelling and paddleboarding in Weligama's bay. Hike the Pekoe Trail Self-guided hill country trails The hilly, tea-dominated Central Highlands are visually stunning yet also hold rich cultural value. Each of the 22 stages of the 186-mile Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Pekoe Trail takes you deep into undulating tea estates, pine forests and tradition-steeped communities. A guide will enhance your walk, though the Trail Pass (£7.50 per stage) unlocks an app with GPS-enabled maps. Insider tip: Six-mile-long Stage 16, from Ella to Demodara, is one of the easiest and most family-friendly stages, taking you right past the Nine Arches viaduct and Demodara's 360-degree sub-station loop. Kumana National Park Leopard spotting away from the crowds Yala National Park is well known for its density of leopards, but it can get crowded in peak season. Consider venturing further east to Kumana National Park instead (beyond Yala's fluid eastern border). Its scrub forests, rocky outcrops and lakes also foster a healthy population of leopards (plus elephants, crocodiles and more than 250 bird species), but with far fewer jeeps. Insider tip: For an immersive three-night safari experience, book Kumana Under Canvas, a mobile safari camp in Kumana with stylish tents pitched in a wooded lakeside glade over an hour's drive from the park entrance. Includes food and expert-led game drives. Return to index Best for food and people Cook like a local Hosted cookery experience in Galle Having catered to royal families, mayors and sea captains over the years, Shahira now shares her cherished family recipes (peppered with first-hand foodie tales) from the kitchen of her home in Galle. Don't miss the chance to learn her southern-style biriyani recipe, a heady cardamom-spiced Muslim dish of slow-cooked meat and cashew nuts with saffron rice. Insider tip: You might meet Shahira's son, Atheeq, from Ceylon Soul around the lunch table, the architect of other insightful Galle Fort experiences, such as hosted walking tours and treasure hunts. Kandy Food Trail Hosted food experience in Kandy Discover Kandy's diverse regional cuisines and fresh food markets on Pepper's Kandy Food Trail. Tuck into curries, deep-fried snacks and kithul-sweetened treats from street vendors, curry houses and restaurants as part of a multi-sensorial walk hosted by local Ujith. It usually ends with cold beers or G&Ts at a 19th-century bar. Insider tip: Alternatively, end your tour at Kandy's Temple of the Tooth – aim to get there around 6.15pm for the evening pooja when the chamber housing the Buddha's tooth is ceremoniously revealed, and drums, chanting and incense fills the air. Area: Kandy Website: Price: ££ Orange Field Tea Factory Exclusive owner-hosted tea tour Many tea factories dot the Central Highlands, but this tidy factory near Kandy, which processes tea from 750 small-scale growers, cares for its workers, sees few tourists and there's no hard selling of tea. Better still, it is the factory owner, Sebastian, who expertly guides you past juddering, oscillating machinery, taking time to explain each intricate process. Insider tip: One of the closest hotels to the factory is Ellerton, 20 minutes away. Owner Luca has a good connection with Sebastian and organises tours for his guests in advance. Colombo City Walks History-focused walking tours If you have a day in Colombo, join a walking tour hosted by passionate history-loving guide Mark Forbes (or his lovely wife, Ruvi). On these three-hour ambles, you'll visit Colombo Fort's colonial-era relics, such as the Former General Post Office and time-warped Grand Oriental Hotel, before seeking out Bombay sweets and hidden temples in the chaotic streets of the neighbourhood Pettah. Insider tip: Alternatively, join Sensory Indulgences' fun Food Coma experience, which explores Colombo's multi-ethnic cuisine by night. On these after-dark misadventures, sample arrack in 'dodgy' Second World War bars, snack on street food and visit legendary curry houses. Lunuganga Garden Tour Visit Geoffrey Bawa's iconic garden Lunuganga was the country residence of the late visionary architect Geoffrey Bawa, a fiercely private refuge where he experimented with Tropical Modernism and fine-tuned his designs. It's now a boutique hotel and while resident guests can potter at will, the daily guided tours – hosted by those who knew Bawa personally – add depth and context as you are regaled with amusing anecdotes, and shown hidden statues, easily missed follies and secret views. Insider tip: Brief, the enigmatic house and garden of Geoffrey's brother Bevis (a landscape architect) is nearby. Its intimate series of gardens are enlivened by statues, mossy arches and urns; indoors are fantastical Donald Friend-painted murals. Return to index How we choose Every activity or experience to do in this curated list has been expertly chosen by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of areas and styles, from popular city beaches to lesser-known corners, to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up-to-date recommendations. Emma Boyle A holiday to Sri Lanka turned into an epic 16-year adventure in the country, during which I developed a love for leopard-spotting, coconutty curries and single estate teas.
Telegraph
02-08-2025
- Telegraph
The perfect holiday in Sri Lanka, the Indian Ocean's most on-trend destination
Sri Lanka is one of the world's most enigmatic destinations. Size-wise, it's slightly smaller than Scotland, meaning you can cover a lot of ground in two weeks (though it deserves longer, if you have the time). And it's also incredibly biodiverse, with plenty to keep all ages enthralled. On a typical tour, you'll travel through distinct topographical regions, so that each leg of your island journey is a unique adventure. Combine soft-sand beaches, lakes and forest-edged waterfalls with verdant mountains and mist-kissed tea estates, weaving in spellbinding ancient temples and national parks home to leopards, elephants and a vibrant symphony of birds. But it's the kindness, warmth and curiosity of Sri Lankans that will stay with you long after you return home. Always willing to challenge you to a game of cricket, they are also open to sharing their distinct culture and traditions, and their sensational range of regional-diverse cuisine. For more Sri Lanka inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars, things to do and beaches. In this guide: How to spend the perfect day in Sri Lanka Morning Get to Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna early for a dip in the ocean's turquoise lagoon and the chance to spy green turtles before the crowds (and their camera phones) arrive. Order fresh juices from Wijaya Beach, an oceanfront staple for all-day wood-fired pizzas and fruity sundowners. Next, hop on a bicycle to absorb Galle's verdant hinterland with Idle Bikes (the headquarters is less than a 10-minute drive away from Wijeya). Their 16-mile Paddy and Lake Trail (which takes around two-and-a-half hours) is moderately challenging yet immerses you in life away from the beach. Pedal through palm-shaded villages wrapped by rippling paddy fields and along quiet tracks criss-crossed by monitor lizards and mongoose to mangroves fringing vast Koggala Lake.
The National
07-07-2025
- The National
Review: What's new at the refreshed Relais & Chateaux Cape Weligama in Sri Lanka
On Sri Lanka 's southern coastline, Relais & Chateaux Cape Weligama has been welcoming guests for more than a decade and recently completed a refresh to mark its 10th anniversary. New additions include a secluded bay, more interconnecting rooms for families, plus upgraded bars and restaurants. Perched dramatically on a scenic hilltop, the 12-acre resort features 39 suites and villas nestled among swaying palms and emerald-green gardens. Each accommodation sits quietly beneath a terracotta-tiled roof and offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. The National checked in to find out what to expect from one of Sri Lanka's most idyllic resorts. The welcome Our journey begins with a punctual pickup from Galle in a luxury air-conditioned van, complete with refreshing cold towels and water. The half-hour coastal drive winds along scenic roads before ascending into the hilltops, where we arrive at the beautifully landscaped property. A charming turquoise retro-style camper van with a surfboard on top greets guests, setting the scene for the laidback luxury, and a fantastic awaits nearby. The staff offer my husband, daughter and I welcome drinks, and we're soon escorted to our spacious villa. The resort's clifftop setting offers lush gardens, winding pathways, panoramic ocean views and the occasional wandering peacock. The recently added private beach is modest in size, but offers convenient shoreline access. Located only half an hour from the historic town of Galle, Relais & Chateaux Cape Weligama strikes a balance between easy access to city sights and a secluded, nature-immersed escape. Guests can explore nearby attractions including Galle's 17th-century Dutch fort, world-class surfing at Weligama Bay and whale watching in Mirissa, about a 20-minute drive away. The room We stay in a Premier Villa named King Vijaya - each villa is named after figures from Sri Lankan history – and it's one of the largest I've ever stayed in. A cot has been thoughtfully placed next to the king-sized bed for our daughter, yet there's still ample space to move around freely. The bathroom is equally spacious, with a walk-in rain shower, steam room and plenty of room for our daughter to play. The outdoor terrace is ideal for lounging or dining, surrounded by nature. It also leads to our 15-metre foliage-fringed infinity pool, which we technically share with one other villa – but we have it entirely to ourselves during our stay. The service The staff are friendly and welcoming, particularly with our young daughter. They're quick to provide baby chairs when needed, and she's even welcome to join our cocktail-making class (with a virgin strawberry mojito, of course). Babysitters are readily available to book on call. The food Dining at Relais & Chateaux Cape Weligama offers plenty of choice, from all‑day casual fare at The Atlas to immersive moments at Tableau, afternoon teas and sunset sips at The Society, plus laid‑back bites at Moon Bar. Our dinner was arranged as a scenic viewpoint experience, and despite a last‑minute venue change due to rain, we still enjoyed clifftop vistas over the Indian Ocean. We began with a beautifully presented crab and coconut sambal that balanced sweet, spicy and nutty flavours perfectly, followed by a creamy white snapper ceviche. The meal culminated in an authentic Sri Lankan curry served with traditional accompaniments, think rice, sambal and sauces, which were beautifully presented and utterly delicious. Hotel facilities There's no lack of swimming pools at this resort with each cluster having its own pool to share, plus the family-friendly Cove Pool, which is great for children thanks to its large central shallow section. Adults will prefer the Moon Pool, which has the best views of the sunset and dramatic cliffside vistas. Down the stone steps is Cove Beach Club with direct access to the ocean. Two children's spaces, including an outdoor nature-based play area and a small space just for babies, will keep little ones happy, while those hoping to keep their fitness on track can work out in the fully equipped gym. Spa The Sanctuary Spa sits quietly at the top of the resort, offering treatments inspired by ancient healing practices with a modern touch. While my husband watches our daughter, I sneak away for a soothing massage using local oils. Family-friendly factor What impressed me most about this resort was its genuinely family-friendly approach, striking a rare balance between sophisticated luxury and thoughtful touches that cater to younger guests. From children's menus at dinner to giant boulders perfect for climbing on and oversized chess games under shady trees, children are warmly welcomed rather than simply accommodated. The standout feature is the Forest School, an open-air playground, where kids can connect with nature through supervised treasure hunts, drawing sessions, tree climbing, and other outdoor adventures. It's designed for children aged two to 15, and led by experienced staff who make sure every activities are both safe and fun. Accessibility and sustainability Relais & Chateaux Cape Weligama is taking steps toward sustainability, including reducing plastic use, sourcing food locally and improving waste and energy management, in line with the environmental commitments of its parent company, Resplendent Ceylon. Some areas of the resort may not be wheelchair accessible due to the terrain and stone steps. Rates from $432 (about 131,000 Sri Lankan rupees) per night, excluding taxes, but including breakfast. Check-in at 2pm, check-out at 11am
Reuters
28-06-2025
- Sport
- Reuters
Jayasuriya decimates Bangladesh as Sri Lanka win by innings and 78 runs
June 28 (Reuters) - Spinner Prabath Jayasuriya led the charge with a five-wicket haul as Bangladesh collapsed for just 133 in their second innings, handing Sri Lanka a win by an innings and 78 runs, with the hosts clinching a 1-0 victory in their two-test series on Saturday. Bangladesh lost six wickets within 33 runs as their batters were unable to repeat the heroics that secured a draw in the first test in Galle on Colombo's spin-friendly track. "There was a difference between (the) two matches ... that's a good morale booster for us, losing the toss and putting the opposition under pressure," Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva said at the post-match presentation ceremony. After Bangladesh posted 247 in their first innings, opener Pathum Nissanka scored 158 in a player-of-the-match performance, aided by Dinesh Chandimal (93) and Kusal Mendis (84) as Sri Lanka secured a commanding 211-run lead with a total of 458. Anamul Haque (19) tried to give Bangladesh a fast start in the second innings but fell to Asitha Fernando (1-22), while his opening partner Shadam Islam (12) mistimed a cover drive and got caught just three balls later as Jayasuriya (5-56) took his first wicket of the match. De Silva (2-13) trapped fellow skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, who scored twin centuries in the first test, with a leg before wicket dismissal to leave the visitors reeling at 70-4. "Very disappointing after how we finished the first Test, the way this one went," Shanto said. "We had opportunities but... always took easy options and made mistakes while batting." Mushfiqur Rahim (26), Bangladesh's other centurion in the previous match, was the next to fall as he was bowled by Jayasuriya, kicking off a collapse where Bangladesh lost their last five wickets in less than 11 overs. Sri Lanka will play three One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 matches against Bangladesh next month, with the first ODI set for Wednesday.
Al Arabiya
27-06-2025
- Sport
- Al Arabiya
Nissanka Leads With 158 As Sri Lanka Reaches 401-6 At Lunch On Day 3 Of 2nd Test Vs Bangladesh
Opening batter Pathum Nissanka scored more than 150 runs in consecutive test matches as Sri Lanka strengthened its hold on the second cricket test, taking a 151-run first-innings lead at lunch on the third day. Bangladesh bowlers took four wickets in the first session to regain some control. Replying to Bangladesh's first-innings score of 247 all out, Sri Lanka reached 401 for six at the lunch break. Sri Lanka resumed on the third day at 290 for two, with Nissanka unbeaten on 146, batting with night watchman Prabath Jayasuriya. Nissanka followed his 187 in the first test in Galle with a brilliant 158, which included 19 boundaries off 254 deliveries in an innings lasting more than six hours. A second new ball taken by Bangladesh after 80 overs on Friday produced quick results when Nissanka stepped out and played a defensive shot against left-arm spinner Taijul Islam, which resulted in a straightforward catch to Anamul Haque at short cover. Taijul returned to dismiss Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva (7) cheaply. His sliding delivery went straight and trapped de Silva lbw. Jayasuriya was out for 10 after occupying the crease for 39 balls in 75 minutes, making good of his role in shielding the regular batters overnight. Jayasuriya was caught at slip by Mehidy Hasan Miraz off fast bowler Nahid Rana. Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis shared a 49-run partnership in trying to stall a potential slide before offspin bowler Nayeem Hasan bowled Kamindu Mendis for 33. At the lunch break, Kusal Mendis was batting on 42 with rookie all-rounder Sonal Dinusha on eight. Taijul was the pick of Bangladesh bowlers, taking three wickets for 114 runs, while Hasan had two wickets. The first test in Galle ended in a draw.
