Ussangoda National Park, Sri Lanka

Ussangoda is one of Sri Lanka's strangest landscapes: a flat coastal plateau of rust-red earth and stunted plants, ending in low cliffs above the Indian Ocean. It became a national park in 2010, and it's small enough to walk across in under an hour.

Legend says this is where Ravana landed his flying chariot, the Pushpaka Vimana, and that Hanuman's fire scorched the ground red. Scientists explain the colour by the iron-rich soil and unusual mineral content, which also limits what can grow here.

What to see

• The red plateau — open, windswept and very photogenic in low evening light.
• Sea views — from the cliff edge there are long views along the coast and down to the rocks and beaches.
• Nesting beaches — turtles nest on the protected beaches nearby. Please stay away from nests. See our sea turtle guide.

Visiting tips

• There's almost no shade. Go in the early morning or late afternoon and bring water and a hat.
• Allow 1 hour.
• Stay on the existing tracks, as the vegetation is fragile.
• Don't swim here. The sea is rough and there are no lifeguards. See our beach safety guide.
• Facilities are minimal, and entrance arrangements can change. Check locally before you go.

When to visit

You can visit all year. Mornings and sunsets are best for light and heat. The sea is calmest from December to April.

Getting there

Ussangoda is on the coast near Nonagama, between Tangalle and Hambantota, about 30 minutes from Tangalle by car or tuk-tuk. It makes a good stop on the way to Yala.