Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is famous for its culture, tradition, arts, and beautiful people. Rich in historic sites and stunning natural beauty, Sri Lanka stands alone as a top tourist destination. Many travelers visit this country for its captivating places and delectable Sri Lankan cuisine.
Visiting Sri Lanka will provide you with a memorable time with your loved ones, and before everything, we will give you a complete travel guide to Sri Lanka.
Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Here are some of the beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka:
Ella: This is the best place to start your trip, situated in the middle of the country with an amazing view of mountains, vegetable plots, and tea plantations. Ella is one of the most visited places by tourists for its beautiful nature. You can engage in fun activities such as hikes and train rides. Don’t miss visiting Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Cave, and Ravana Falls.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: What about a tour to a beautiful elephant bath? Yes, this place is all about elephants. Most loved by kids, you can witness the mischievous elephants having a nice time, and you will be thrilled and entertained too. Pinnawala is considered one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Mirissa: This place is a must on your travel list. Being a fishermen’s village, you can get knowledge about the life of the locals and even go fishing with them. Engage in whale watching and definitely try the varieties of local food here.
Yala National Park: Home to the leopards, this place is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. You can witness one of the highest densities of the leopard population here. Additionally, you will get to witness the beauty of Bentota. As this place is 200 km away from the town, hire a jeep and take a safari ride to the jungle to witness beautiful wild elephants and leopards. Imagine the adventure you will experience. That is why Yala National Park should be a must-visit place on your tour list.
Jaffna: Adding some historical experiences and photographs will just elevate your tour, so take a ride to Jaffna, where you will get to experience some historical architecture and buildings. You can visit the temples, especially Nallur, which is more crowded than the others. You can also visit Nagadeepa Viharaya Purana temple by boat. This historical city will not only explain the history of Sri Lanka but also provide a perfect environment to engage in meditation.
Nine Arch Bridge: This bridge, built without the use of steel, is situated amidst a beautiful view of greenery. Located in the mountain town of Ella, you will get to see the trains passing on the bridge, creating a beautiful and calm scene amidst the green background. This is also a highly visited place.
Remember to savor the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich culture during your visit to Sri Lanka. These are just a few of the amazing places to explore in this beautiful country, so get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Most Popular Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Dambulla Cave Temple: This is one of the largest temple complexes in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 12th century A.D. The temple consists of five rooms of different sizes, each containing statues of Buddha in various positions. Easily accessible from both Colombo and Kandy, the temple is built on a black rock mountain that contrasts with the white temple walls. This place should be a must-visit on your tour.
Galle: This place showcases a perfect blend of Dutch, British, and Portuguese architectural styles. The sight of horses and carts driven on the streets will give you an ancient vibe. Galle is highly visited by tourists, and you can also enjoy different cuisines in the cafes and restaurants here. By the dawn of the day, you can capture spectacular pictures of sunsets to add to your tour gallery.
Sigiriya: This can be described as a rock formation built by King Kashyapa in the 5th Century. It holds immense cultural and historical importance, being recorded under UNESCO. For mesmerizing views, you can climb the staircases and reach the top of the rock to witness the paintings done by monks and kings. Climbing to the top will undoubtedly provide you with some breathtaking photographs as well.
Sinharaja Forest: Considered the “Kingdom of the Lion,” Sinharaja Forest is home to many endemic species of Sri Lanka. This pristine rainforest, located in the southern part of Sri Lanka, is recognized by UNESCO. Here, you will get to witness a vast range of mammals and birds, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. End your trip with a mesmerizing view of the rainforest and its wildlife.
Explore these incredible places in Sri Lanka and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of the country. The beauty and diversity of these destinations will surely make your trip unforgettable.
Top Things to Do in Sri Lanka
Taste the Best Cinnamon: One of the best Southern cinnamon experiences can be found on Ganduwa Island in Koggala Lake, Galle district. Here, you can learn the method of preparing cinnamon, as the peelers spend the whole day in the estate carefully peeling and grinding cinnamon into a fine powder which you can also purchase. While on the island, you can explore other nearby islands via boat.
Kitesurfing in Kalpitiya: Kalpitiya is a coastal paradise filled with sandy beaches, small fishing hamlets, and even wild donkeys. Experience the thrill of kitesurfing as you visit Donkey Point, Dutch Bay, and Vella Island. Additionally, you can go dolphin-watching in boats but remember not to feed them to maintain their natural behaviors.
Bird Watching: For an exceptional birdwatching experience, head to Bundala National Park. Witness approximately 200 species of local and migratory birds during the morning tour that lasts for 3 to 4 hours. If you visit during the afternoon, you might get the chance to spot wild elephants, bears, and spotted deer, making it a wild and memorable experience. Consider hiring a safari ride to explore the park comfortably.
Turtle Archery: Located near Bentota, this unique activity involves visiting turtle hatcheries that provide nourishment to turtles from birth until they are ready to be released into the sea. These hatcheries also take good care of injured turtles, and you can visit this place to gain some knowledge about turtle conservation efforts.
Tea Factory Experience: Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea, so make sure to include a visit to a tea factory in your itinerary. Head to Nuwara Eliya’s tea factory and witness the entire process, from plucking tea leaves to the remaining procedures. You can also enjoy a hot and fresh cup of tea during your visit and take a stroll through the tea estate to soak in the scenic views.
Immerse yourself in these enriching and exciting activities while visiting Sri Lanka, and you will surely create unforgettable memories during your trip.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
Before you plan your tour, it is important to consider the best time to travel to Sri Lanka to avoid disappointments or any problems. The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from November to April in the South West and February to September in the North East.
How to Travel in Sri Lanka?
When traveling in Sri Lanka, you have various options for transportation, including buses, trains, cars, tourist carriages, motorways, and rickshaws. Government and private buses are available, but government buses may make more stops to pick up passengers.
If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible experience, consider private transportation options.
Best Places to Stay in Sri Lanka
Kandy: Busy, colorful, and cultural, Kandy is the second-largest town in Sri Lanka, situated among tea plantations and misty hills. You will experience sudden storms here, and the sight of elephants will never bore you. Don’t forget to try delicious Kandyan food.
Galle: Located in the southern part of Sri Lanka, Galle was initially developed by the Dutch, but it now boasts many buildings and constructions done by locals. Its ambiance attracts many tourists, and the variety of seafood available is a must-try. You can find luxury hotels, guesthouses, and budget hotels to suit your preferences.
Negombo: A small, easy-going, and friendly town near Colombo, Negombo is an ideal place for relaxation with its attractive beaches. Local restaurants offer delicious cuisine, and you can find hotels ranging from budget to luxury to suit your needs.
Ella: Nature lovers will find solace in Ella, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful tea and rice fields. The train journey to Ella offers a cinematic experience of nature. While there may not be many activities, it is the perfect place to enjoy personal space and spend time in nature, with waterfalls and temples to explore.
Unawatuna: Famous for its coral reefs, sea, and yellow sand, Unawatuna offers an attractive destination for beach lovers. Enjoy the serenity of the sea waves, dine in local restaurants, and find cheap and luxury hotels and guesthouses for a comfortable stay.
Explore these incredible places in Sri Lanka and make the most of your trip with memorable experiences and stunning scenery.
How to find best Sri Lankan Vacation Packages?
Planning a vacation to Sri Lanka requires careful consideration, as there are numerous travel agencies offering various packages. To ensure you make the right decision, follow these essential tips:
Compare Prices: Take the time to contact different agencies, check online platforms, and visit Sri Lankan travel websites to explore the available vacation packages. Pay close attention to additional charges for flights, accommodation, meals, and activities to get a clear understanding of the overall cost.
Check Reviews: Customer reviews play a crucial role in determining the reliability of a travel agency. Look for feedback from previous travelers to gauge the agency’s reputation. Favor agencies with more positive reviews and avoid those with consistently negative feedback.
Flexibility: Ensure the travel agency is flexible and can cater to your specific needs and preferences. A reliable agency should be able to provide options for various travel destinations and activities that suit your interests.
Seek Recommendations: Seek advice from friends, family, and acquaintances who have previously traveled to Sri Lanka on a budget. Their experiences and recommendations can help you make an informed decision when choosing a travel agency.
Consider Off-Season Travel: Check for off-season travel periods when flights, accommodations, and tourist attractions offer lower rates. Traveling during these times can significantly reduce your expenses.
Exclusion Packages: Some packages may exclude certain services like breakfast, tour guides, and airport transfers. Opting for these exclusion packages can lead to additional savings.
Takeaway on Sri Lanka Travel
Sri Lanka offers a delightful mixture of culture, arts, and traditions, making it a fantastic destination for travelers. Embrace the beauty of “Mother Lanka” while experiencing local and Western cuisines during your stay.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a well-planned and cost-effective vacation. But before you leave, do check out our Dubai travel guide because we don’t want you to miss out on the fun.
