Mirissa, Sri Lanka

• Mirissa is more famous for whale watching as the ferries start from here for the middle of the sea. The activity is for the elderlies and is getting costlier every year. 
• The beach is one of the most beautiful you will come across. If you want to go for the secluded and cosy one, this is it.
• Weligama is equal distance from here and Unawatuna. There is a Marriott not very far in case you want to go for a luxury hotel.

Our first morning in Sri Lanka was going to be a hectic one. Our driver had suggested a whale watching tour early morning and we decided to go for it. Hence at 5 in the morning we were racing towards a beach called Mirissa. By the time we reached the sun was about to rise. It was glorious. Early morning beach view is generally amazing - the small sandy beach of Mirissa takes it to the next level.

Sunrise @ Mirissa Beach

Galle, Sri Lanka

• Galle is essentially a beach fort town. Do not expect more. There are well located restaurants within the fort with a beautiful sea view and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that you should try.
• Fort is the place to explore within Galle. The lighthouse and area around it is spectacular shares during sunset with fort on one side and the infinite sea on another.
• Galle beach is another attraction although nothing compared to so many beaches in Sri Lanka. Beachside restaurants are a good option for breakfast.

Galle (pronounced Gaulle) is a seaport in southern Sri Lanka. We chose it as our base because of its equal distance from Weligama and Hikkaduwa. The fact that Unawatuna beach was a mile away was a bonus. The plan was more or less a success as we were able to easily nevigate through major beaches in southern province. However a better approach would have been to stay at Unawatuna itself, watching the sunrise and enjoying the buzz of the commercial beach.

Lighthouse, Galle Fort

Udaigiri Caves, Vidisha

• One can book a vehicle for less than $10 for half day to cover both Udaigiri and Heliodorus Pillar from Vidisha station. The pillar is worth 20 minutes stay.
• November to February is the best time to visit Udaigiri Caves. Both the climate of this region and the small uphill climb traversing this hill demands cool temperature.
• At the top of the hill, there is a cave dedicated to Lord Ganesha. People mostly come back from here. There is a path from here that takes you to the other side which has few more caves.

We were in Vidisha for Prateek's wedding. The journey itself was interesting. It was not since the dreadful night train to Rameswaram that we had taken a train trip. However the group that accompanied us was fun. We reached Vidisha early morning and got transferred to our respective rooms. Management from bride's side was impeccable. Breakfast was equally good with the variety and a hint of Madhya Pradesh. We ate sumptuously and then rested for a while at room before starting again.

Varaha statue, Udaigiri