We love Sri Lanka. Having visited Sri Lanka 4 occasions, we nonetheless handle to uncover one thing new. It is without doubt one of the few international locations that we really felt unhappy leaving. While visiting this stunning island positioned off the southern coast of India in the center of the Indian Ocean, we loved the nice and cozy Sri Lankan hospitality of the Sri Lankan individuals, had superior wildlife encounters, and loved some much-needed time on the seaside.
Top Things to Do in Sri Lanka
This Sri Lanka journey information will allow you to plan the proper journey for while you journey to Sri Lanka.
1. Go Surfing
No Sri Lanka journey can be full with out getting in the water. Sri Lanka is a newbie surfers paradise. Hikkaduwa on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast is the favored spot the place we tried browsing. The sandy break cushions your fall and the waves are usually not the big intimidating pipes seen in Hawaii or Australia.
If you’ve by no means surfed earlier than, Hikkiduwa in Sri Lanka is the place to do it. It could be very straightforward to study right here and the circumstances are excellent for the first-timer. So in case you are on the lookout for one thing to do in Sri Lanka, give browsing a strive!
There are loads of issues to do in Hikkaduwa apart from browsing. It has a protracted sandy seaside stuffed with seaside bars, resorts and buying. So spend a little bit of time chilling in this well-liked expat city.
2. Aragum Bay
On the west coast of Sri Lanka, there’s a well-liked seaside that gives larger and higher waves that’s an superior spot for browsing known as Aragum Bay. This is the place you’ll discover a number of surfers hanging out ready to catch a wave. The season is completely different than Hikkaduwa’s nevertheless, so be sure to examine when browsing on the west coast is well-liked.
Arugam Bay, with its excellent waves, grew to become our favourite spot for browsing. Even as novices, we loved the joys of driving the waves in this surfer’s paradise. But browsing just isn’t all Arugam Bay presents. Its relaxed vibe and delightful seashores make it an ideal getaway.
Make certain to discover the native delicacies and the nightlife of Arugam Bay. The delectable seafood, coupled with vigorous seaside events, made our keep unforgettable. If you’re in search of journey or simply want to chill, Arugam Bay is a wonderful alternative.
We stayed on the Hikka Trans by Cinnamon and cherished its trendy facilities and placement. Located instantly on the seaside and shut to all of the motion. Check Reviews and Availability right here
2. Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Nothing ready us for the awe-inspiring sight of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Known because the ‘Lion Rock Fortress,’ this historic palace and fortress complicated enthralled us with its sheer magnitude and ingenuity. The arduous climb to the highest was immediately rewarded with panoramic views of the encompassing landscapes, one thing that may stay etched in our reminiscences perpetually.
During the climb, take your time to see its spectacular frescoes, the mirror wall, and the lion gate. The vital archeological web site could be very spectacular. Gracing the covers of many Sri Lankan Guide books, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of Sri Lanka’s most recognizable websites.
It can also be set in a wonderful location in Sri Lanka. Surrounded by jungle, villages, and farmland, Sigiriya Rock is a location set again in time. Monkeys play on the paths and crocodiles dwell in its moat. The entry worth is steep, however it’s a stunning view with a powerful museum as properly.
Hiking to the highest of Sigiriya Rock is a deal with providing views of the encompassing jungle. It takes about an hour to get to the highest of Sigiriya Rock and it’s scorching. Try to go in the morning for cooler temperatures. If you’re keen on historical past and archeology, Sigiriya is for you.
Helicopter Flight Over Sigiriya
We additionally suggest reserving a helicopter flight over Sri Lanka to see it from above.
3. Go on Safari in Yala National Park
Yala National Park is without doubt one of the few locations in the world the place you’ll be able to see a leopard. I put Yala up there as considered one of our high issues to do in Sri Lanka. We had a lot enjoyable taking a look at all of the wildlife and four-wheeling by the park in our safari truck. Hanging out and making new buddies was a part of the enjoyable!
This unbelievable reserve in Southern Sri Lanka is stuffed with wildlife. Leopards, solar bears, wild elephants, water buffalo, peacocks, monkeys, jackals, crocodiles, and monitor lizards to identify a number of.
You gained’t be dissatisfied on a jeep safari and it’s the finest place in the world to spot leopards! Even if you happen to don’t see a leopard, you will notice a wonderful panorama and an abundance of untamed animals.
However, chances are high fairly good that you will notice a leopard and costs are so affordable, that even if you happen to don’t, you’ll be able to strive to see one once more on one other safari.
The anticipation of recognizing a leopard lurking behind the bushes or an elephant frolicking in the water was thrilling. Each safari trip was a roll of the cube, and the unpredictability made it all of the extra thrilling. Yala isn’t just a wildlife safari, it’s a fascinating encounter with nature that leaves you with reminiscences to cherish for a lifetime.
We stayed at Cinnamon Wild on the Yala National Park gates. It is pure luxurious and you’re feeling as in case you are staying throughout the park with wildlife roaming freely. Check Prices and Reviews on TripAdvisor or Booking.com
4. Join the Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage
In my opinion, the highest attraction of Sri Lanka is Adam’s Peak. Our climb to the highest of Adam’s Peak at dawn was among the finest experiences we’ve ever had in the nation. Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred web site and you may be a part of hundreds of pilgrims from December to April as they pay homage to the primary place that Adam stepped foot on earth when he was forged down from Heaven.
It is a climb that doesn’t require any technical talent, however it’s a exercise. You will really feel an ideal sense of accomplishment collaborating in this religious journey. Adam’s Peak is by far our high suggestion of issues that you need to be sure to do when visiting the nation. This climb is what drew us to go to Sri Lanka in the primary place.
Climbing Adam’s Peak, a holy mountain identified for its sacred footprint at its summit, was an exhilarating and spiritually uplifting expertise. The panoramic views of the dawn from the height had been a sight to behold.
5. Ride the Train
One of the issues it’s essential to issues to do in Sri Lanka is trip the trains. Sri Lankan trains are like stepping again in time. They chug slowly alongside by hills and valleys. It is the sluggish journey that makes it particular.
Looking out over the mountains and tea plantations rival any view in the world and the individuals that you simply meet on the practice shall be remembered perpetually. So in case you are planning a visit to Sri Lanka be sure this makes your to-do record and take the time to journey by practice. It shall be an expertise you’ll keep in mind and cherish perpetually.
A high practice journey in Sri Lanka is to Ella. When you are taking this practice you’ll cross the well-known Nine Arch Bridge that has turn out to be Instafamous in latest years with backpackers taking Instagram-worthy images of the historic landmark.
The practice trip from Kandy to Ella was past mesmerizing. Winding by misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and charming villages, this journey was the epitome of scenic magnificence. The practice trip is greater than only a mode of transport; it’s a window into the soul of Sri Lanka.
When we made the journey once more, we opted for the commentary automobile. Watching the altering landscapes from the large home windows, sipping on native tea, and interacting with pleasant locals made the journey an unforgettable expertise. If there’s one factor it’s essential to not miss in Sri Lanka, it’s this magical practice trip.
6. Sip Tea in Nuwara Eliya
Sri Lanka is without doubt one of the most vital tea producers in the world and its hill nation is gorgeous. Nuwara Eliya is tea nation and visiting a tea plantation here’s a should. Colonial cities dot the panorama surrounded by tea plantations. One of the perfect locations to sip tea is in the city of Nuwara Eliya.
The vegetation is lush and inexperienced and the rolling hills make for an superior web site. Pretend you might be in jolly outdated England for a number of days. Stay in outdated plantation properties, drink tea, and eat baked items.
It doesn’t get any extra civilized than this. Don’t miss going to Ella and Nuwara Eliya to see the tea plantations of Sri Lanka. Exploring the surroundings of the hills is a must-do when go to visiting Sri Lanka. It’s completely stunning and you’re feeling as in case you are in one other world.
Our first impression of Nuwara Eliya was of a lush inexperienced paradise. Known because the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, this hill station with its cool local weather and sprawling tea plantations was a visible deal with. We discovered concerning the tea-making course of, tasted various kinds of tea, and even picked tea leaves ourselves.
On our second go to, we found extra of Nuwara Eliya’s charms. From boating in Gregory Lake to exploring the Seetha Amman Temple and climbing in Horton Plains, each expertise added to the attract of this picturesque city. Nuwara Eliya, with its colonial allure and pure magnificence, is a must-visit vacation spot in Sri Lanka.
7. Go to Udawalawe National Park
Sri Lanka is stuffed with nationwide parks and trekking by Uda Walawe is a superb escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities. What is particular about this park nevertheless is the Elephant Transit Home an orphanage and rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured elephants supported by the Born Free Foundation.
You can watch elephants being fed, however not like the Pinawale Orphanage, the ETH cares just for the elephants properly being. They have as little interplay with people as potential.
So far 65 wild elephants have been rehabilitated and let again into the wild. If you’ve your coronary heart set on seeing and serving to elephants, we recommend going to Udawalwe over the opposite Elephant Rehabilitation Centres. They are doing an ideal job.
8. Royal Palace of Kandy
Kandy was the previous historic capital of Sri Lanka and was the residence of the Sri Lankan Monarchy till 1815. Kandy is considered one of Sri Lanka’s 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is unquestionably value spending a while exploring.
Take a tour of the complicated to see the king and queen’s palace, the temple of the tooth, and the royal courtroom. Be certain to gown respectfully as it’s a holy temple so cowl your shoulders and knees.
Kandy, the final royal capital of Sri Lanka, wowed us with its wealthy heritage and pure magnificence. The sacred Temple of the Tooth, the serene Kandy Lake, and the colourful Perahera pageant had been highlights of our go to. Kandy’s distinctive mix of custom and pure allure was merely irresistible.
During our subsequent go to, we explored the Royal Botanical Gardens, trekked by Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and skilled a standard Kandyan dance efficiency. Every second in Kandy revealed a brand new side of its multifaceted persona, making us recognize this vibrant metropolis much more.
9. Una Watuna
Many individuals journey to Sri Lanka for its seashores and Una Watuna is without doubt one of the hottest. It is a seaside city on the south coast of Sri Lanka. What makes it particular is the truth that the freeway bypasses the city making strolling by the slender lanes straightforward and free from visitors.
There are picturesque seashores and it’s right here that you may see fishermen nonetheless fishing from stilts. The Sri Lankan stilt fishermen are one of many nation’s most iconic symbols. When in Sri Lanka discover the south coast in search of those fishermen, they honestly are a wonderful sight to see.
10. Polonnaruwa
Exploring Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, felt like stepping right into a historic documentary. The ruins, the sculptures, and the traditional reservoir spoke volumes concerning the Kingdom’s wonderful previous. This UNESCO World Heritage Site left a long-lasting impression on us.
During our return, we selected to discover Polonnaruwa on bicycles. Riding across the historic metropolis, taking in the sights at our personal tempo, and discovering lesser-known ruins made the expertise much more particular. History fanatics or not, Polonnaruwa has a mystic allure that no customer can resist.
The historic metropolis of Polonnaruwa is Sri Lanka’s second oldest kingdom courting again to 1070. This UNESCO listed web site continues to be inhabited by individuals. It’s in nice form with many monuments nonetheless standing. It’s not as massive as most of the different ruins we visited round Asia, however it’s a fascinating stroll by time.
11. Hike to Pidurangala Rock
We loved climbing Pidurangala Rock to see Sigiriya Rock at sundown greater than really visiting Sigiriya Rock. It is a superb sundown hike that takes you up a mountain adjoining to Sigiriya, providing superb views of the enormous rock.
The hike takes about half-hour to get to the highest of Pidurangala Rock and also you cross historic monasteries and tombs as you make your method to the highest of Pidurangala Rock. The views are out of this world and provide the perfect views of Sigiriya Rock Fort with out having to take a helicopter tour. (which we additionally extremely suggest)
13. Huluru Eco Park
Huluru Eco Park is one other wonderful place to view wildlife in Sri Lanka. Hire a truck and go on safari to see the perfect of Sri Lankan wildlife. We noticed elephants and monkeys and what makes this park particular, is that you may get out of the jeep and hike up to a excessive lookout.
Designated a biosphere reserve in 1977, Huluru Eco Park is a crucial habitat for Sri Lanka’s Elephants.
14. Visit a Turtle Hatchery
Our subsequent suggestion for issues to do in Sri Lana is to go to a Turtle hatchery. Sea Turtles are beneath nice risk due to fishing, air pollution, habitat loss, and looking. Of all of the Sri Lanka vacationer locations, that is an attraction that may really fill your coronary heart. Turtle Hatcheries are doing their finest to maintain the turtle numbers alive and properly. One of the perfect is The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. He loves turtles and lets them into the ocean nightly.
You may even participate in their launch if you happen to go at sundown. An individual can’t go to Sri Lanka with out visiting a turtle hatchery. It is a proper of passage of visiting the nation.
15. Hike to Ella Rock
The city of Ella feels extra like an English Country village than a South Asian group. Complete with crimson cellphone cubicles, a horse monitor, and even effective white-glove eating you’re feeling as in case you are in Little Britain fairly than Sri Lanka.
It’s an ideal place to make a base for a number of days to discover. One of the perfect hikes in Sri Lanka is the hike to Ella Rock. The Hiking Trail to Ella is a must-do when visiting the realm. The well-liked trek right here is Ella Rock positioned 5km outdoors of city. It presents nice panoramic views of the hill nation and tea terraces and is an effective day journey in case you are up for a steep and difficult hike.
16. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak
Little Adam’s Peak is without doubt one of the hottest climbing locations in Sri Lanka, positioned close to the city of Ella in the mountainous Uva Province. Named due to its resemblance to the more difficult Adam’s Peak (the fifth highest mountain in Sri Lanka), Little Adam’s Peak stands at an elevation of about 1,141 meters above sea stage.
The hike to Little Adam’s Peak is comparatively straightforward and really accessible, making it a favourite amongst vacationers and locals alike. It sometimes takes between 1 to 2 hours to full, relying in your tempo. The path begins at Ella city and passes by lush, inexperienced tea plantations, providing hikers picturesque views alongside the best way.
One of essentially the most important options of the Little Adam’s Peak hike is the panoramic view on the summit. From the highest, you might be rewarded with gorgeous views of the encompassing panorama, which incorporates the Ella Rock, the sprawling tea estates, the deep valleys, and the huge countryside. On a transparent day, you can too see the towering peaks of the central highlands in the gap.
The path is well-marked, so that you don’t want a information to attain the height. The preliminary a part of the hike is a delicate climb by a tea plantation. The final part consists of a collection of steps main up to the summit. While the steps generally is a bit strenuous for some, the hike is usually thought-about appropriate for individuals of all health ranges.
The finest time to begin the hike is early in the morning to keep away from the afternoon warmth and to catch the dawn on the summit. Alternatively, climbing in the late afternoon permits you to witness a panoramic sundown.
Little Adam’s Peak hike is an thrilling journey for these visiting Sri Lanka. It offers a delicate introduction to the nation’s mountainous terrain and presents some really unforgettable views. Whether you’re an avid hiker or an informal walker, this trek is unquestionably one to add to your itinerary.
17. Hike to the Nine Arch Bridge
The Nine Arch Bridge is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. Located in the mountain city of Ella, this viaduct is a marvel of engineering and has a wonderful, nearly fairy-tale-like presence amidst the plush greenery.
The bridge was constructed throughout the British colonial interval, across the early twentieth century. It stands at a top of about 24 meters (80 toes) and spans roughly 91 meters (300 toes). What makes the Nine Arch Bridge significantly fascinating is that it’s constructed fully of bricks, rocks, and cement, with no use of metal or steel all through its construction.
The bridge will get its identify from its development and design, which incorporates 9 arches. The arches are completely aligned and symmetrically designed, demonstrating the precision and talent of the employees who constructed them.
The Nine Arch Bridge is positioned on the Demodara loop, a railway line that winds by the highlands of Sri Lanka. The loop itself is understood for its gorgeous views and scenic practice rides, making the bridge a preferred spot for vacationers and photographers. When a practice passes over the Nine Arch Bridge in opposition to the backdrop of lush forests and tea plantations, it’s a sight to behold.
Besides its architectural splendor, the Nine Arch Bridge has an enchanting historical past. It’s typically referred to because the “Bridge in the Sky” due to its top and the misty clouds that always encompass it. There are quite a few native legends concerning the bridge, together with one a couple of self-taught native builder who took over the development of the bridge when the unique British engineers deserted the venture.
18. Anuradhapura Sri Lanka
What I really like once I journey to Sri Lanka is how trendy civilization lives in concord with its historic previous. Anuradhapura is one other UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka that’s the capital of the North Central Province. It was additionally the capital of the traditional cities of Sri Lanka.
Its ruins are well- preserved and a go to is an effective method to find out about historic Sri Lanka civilization. The towering dagobas, historic swimming pools, and complicated stone carvings left us speechless. But what stole our hearts was the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, a sapling from the very tree beneath which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It stood there, serene but highly effective, epitomizing religious resilience.
19. Discover Galle
Galle, with its historic Dutch Fort, charmed us with its quaint magnificence. It is a picturesque metropolis surrounded by a wall constructed by the Dutch in the seventeenth Century. Walking alongside the fort partitions, exploring the slender lanes, and watching the sundown from the ramparts was like getting into a distinct period. The colonial structure, cute boutiques, and quite a few cafes made us fall in love with Galle immediately.
Galle is positioned on the southern tip of Sri Lanka and is considered one of Sri Lanka’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Take a stroll across the metropolis to discover the colonial buildings. Colonial customs are nonetheless sturdy in Galle and you may have afternoon tea at one of many high-end lodges. If you might be fortunate, you might even see some locals cliff diving from the excessive partitions.
20. Farm Visit
Cinnamon Wild hosts a farm go to to assist maintain cattle protected from leopards, which in flip saves the leopards of Sri Lanka. They present fences and security for the cattle in order that leopards don’t snatch the calves.
In the previous when leopards killed the livestock, farmers would retaliate and kill the leopards. Now that they’ve fences and are safe from the leopards, they’ll thrive and co-exist in the wild. A farm go to is an excellent method to study and perceive what it’s like to dwell in rural Sri Lanka.
21. Spend Time in Colombo – The Capital of Sri Lanka
Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital, enthralled us with its vibrant markets. Walking by Pettah Market, we had been captivated by the colourful stalls, fragrant spices, and buzzing vitality. It was a sensory overload however in the absolute best method.
On our subsequent visits, we explored different markets in Colombo, every with its distinctive choices. From recent produce and seafood in Manning Market to handicrafts in Laksala, buying in Colombo was an journey in itself. If you’re a shopaholic or just love the chaos and allure of native markets, Colombo gained’t disappoint.
Colombo is a bustling metropolis stuffed with luxurious lodges and the Capital City of Sri Lanka. We stayed on the Cinnamon Grand. An expensive resort in the center of downtown.
Colombo has come a great distance since we first visited in 2010. It now’s a bustling metropolis with effective eating, nightclubs, rooftop patios, and cafes. Our favourite rooftop bar was on the Cinnamon Red Boutique Hotel.
Things to do in Colombo
National Museum Gangaramaya Temple Simamalaka Shrine on Beira Lake Get misplaced in the streets of Pettah Explore Colombo’s Colonial Buildings
22. Kaudulla National Park
There are 26 nationwide parks in Sri Lanka and chances are high you will notice elephants. But while you go to Kaudulla National Park, you’ll actually see lots of of elephants.
Kaudulla National Park is completely different from the opposite parks as this one appears to be solely devoted to herds of elephants. We had been surrounded by elephants on each facet, however it was this elephant that took a eager curiosity in our jeep and slowly inched in direction of us that caught our consideration.
23. Minneriya National Park
If you continue to need extra elephants, Minneriya National Park is a much more well-liked spot to see them than Kaudulla. But you will notice extra vacationers.
It is the most important identified gathering of Asian elephants in the world and taking a non-public jeep safari is one of the simplest ways to stand up shut and private with these majestic creatures.
There may very well be a whole publish concerning the nationwide parks of Sri Lanka. For a small island nation, that is staggering. Other nationwide parks to go to in Sri Lanka embrace Wilpattu National Park,
24. Get to know the locals
Nothing feels higher than being invited to somebody’s home for dinner. The Sri Lankan persons are a giving bunch. They are the friendliest individuals we’ve met in all our travels and we made nice buddies with our Tuk Tuk driver Ajith and his household.
What a beautiful expertise getting a glimpse of native life in the nation. If you might be privileged sufficient to be invited to dinner, take it. It is a heartwarming night stuffed with real hospitality. The Sri Lankan persons are a number of the friendliest individuals in the world.
Unawatuna, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, shortly grew to become our favourite place to unwind. The seaside city’s relaxed vibe was the proper antidote to our city fatigue. Whether it was lounging on the seaside, savoring scrumptious seafood, or swimming in the clear waters, Unawatuna was the epitome of seaside bliss.
25. Laze on the Beach
A visit to Sri Lanka wouldn’t be full with out visiting a seaside! Sri Lanka has some nice seaside life and there are a number of seashores to select from across the nation. Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Kosgoda are some well-liked seashores, however you will discover secluded seashores all alongside Sri Lanka’s coast.
Some are eroding away, however others are pristine. Rent a bicycle or motorcycle and get on the market to discover the island. The seashores are the primary purpose why individuals come to Sri Lanka and when you see them, you’ll be able to perceive why.
26. Go Whale Watching
The coastal city of Mirissa, positioned in the southern a part of Sri Lanka, is the preferred base for whale watching. Other websites embrace Trincomalee in the northeast and Kalpitiya for watching dolphins.
The excursions normally begin early in the morning, round 6 am, and might final anyplace from 3 to 5 hours relying on how far out the whales are that day. Boats head out into the deeper waters the place whales are generally sighted.
The boat trip will be fairly lengthy and the waters can get tough, particularly in case you are touring throughout the fringe of the season, so it’s advisable to take precautions in case you are susceptible to seasickness. Operators typically present life jackets, and a few provide gentle refreshments on the bigger boats.
As for the whales, seeing a blue whale in its pure habitat is a panoramic expertise. They are magnificent creatures, and sightings typically embrace the long-lasting spray as they floor and the majestic sight of their monumental our bodies gliding by the water.
Apart from the blue whales, you may also see sperm whales, and if you happen to’re fortunate, orcas. It’s additionally widespread to spot varied species of dolphins, together with spinner, bottlenose, and striped dolphins. Sea turtles and flying fish are different marine animals that may typically be seen throughout the tour. Remember that wildlife viewing is at all times a matter of luck and endurance. There will be days while you may not spot any whales. The skilled boat guides, nevertheless, normally have a good suggestion of the place to discover them.The peak season for whale watching in Mirissa is from November to April, and in Trincomalee, it’s from June to September.
Lastly, accountable tourism is essential. Choose operators that respect the animals by retaining a protected distance, not chasing the whales, limiting the noise, and avoiding any type of littering. Overall, whale watching in Sri Lanka is a magical, unforgettable expertise, providing a singular alternative to observe these majestic creatures in their pure atmosphere.
27. Go Dolphin Watching
Mirissa stole our hearts with the possibility to witness majestic whales and playful dolphins in their pure habitat. The early morning boat trip, the anticipation of recognizing these creatures, and the enjoyment of seeing them leap out of the water was an expertise of a lifetime.
On our second journey, we determined to lounge on Mirissa’s stunning seaside publish our whale-watching expedition. The gorgeous sundown, the tranquil seaside, and the laid-back vibe offered the proper setting to reminisce about our pleasant encounter with marine life. If you’re keen on wildlife and serene seashores, Mirissa is the place to be.
28. Visit Jaffna
Visiting Jaffna, the colourful metropolis in the northernmost area of Sri Lanka, was a cultural feast. From its distinctive delicacies and delightful temples to its poignant struggle historical past, Jaffna provided a perspective completely different from the remainder of Sri Lanka.
During our return, we delved deeper into the native life. We participated in native festivals, tasted conventional dishes, and visited the offbeat islands close by. Jaffna, with its distinct tradition, offers a enriching journey expertise.
29. Explore Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple left us in awe of its non secular significance and inventive grandeur. The varied Buddha statues and complicated murals contained in the caves had been mesmerizing. Dambulla Cave Temple isn’t just a spot of worship; it’s a testomony to Sri Lanka’s wealthy Buddhist heritage.
Our subsequent go to to Dambulla included a hike to Pidurangala Rock. The hike, though difficult, rewarded us with a panoramic view of Sigiriya and the encompassing landscapes.
30. Enjoy Water Sports in Bentota
Bentota, with its stunning seashores and azure waters, offered us the proper setting for water sports activities. Whether it was jet-skiing, windsurfing, or an exciting banana boat trip, Bentota had one thing for each journey fanatic.
When we returned, we opted for a extra relaxed expertise – a ship trip on the Madu River. The trip, with its mangrove tunnels and native wildlife, was a refreshing change from the adrenaline-pumping water sports activities. Bentota, with its mix of journey and serenity, has one thing to cater to each traveler’s style.
31. Take a Cooking class
Sri Lankan meals is correct up there with Thai meals as scrumptious delicacies that’s excellent for taking a cooking class. It is closely influenced by Indian delicacies and listed below are some Sri Lankan dishes that it’s essential to strive when visiting Sri Lanka. Rice and Curry are sometimes eaten at lunch and are served with fish, hen, or beer. Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes created from fermented rice flour and coconut milk.
Kottu Roti is a well-liked road meals created from godamba roti (a sort of Sri Lankan flatbread), greens, egg, and/or meat, all chopped and blended collectively on a flat iron skillet. It is commonly accompanied by a spicy curry sauce.
Pol Sambol (Coconut Sambol) is a facet dish created from floor coconut blended with chilies, lime juice, salt, and Maldive fish. It’s used to add taste to many dishes or just unfold on bread.
32. Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Located in the Royal Palace of Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth homes Sri Lanka’s most vital Buddhist Relic. If you’ve climbed to Adam’s Peak you should have already been to the place Buddha first stepped foot on earth, and now if you happen to go to the golden-roofed temple you can be in the presence of the sacred tooth relic of Buddha.
The Sacred Tooth Relic is the one the rest of Gautama Buddha who died in 543 BC. After he was cremated, the tooth was the final stays and is housed in the Royal palace in The Temple of the Tooth.
Relax in the Beach Town of Unawatuna
On our return to this coastal paradise, we found its vibrant nightlife. With beachside cafes remodeling into vigorous bars, Unawatuna after darkish was a distinct world altogether. If a mixture of rest and leisure is what you search, look no additional than Unawatuna.
Watch our video to immerse in Sri Lanka Travel
Sri Lanka has every little thing {that a} traveler might probably need. Adventure, spirituality, effective seashores, and nightlife. A trip to this vacation spot won’t ever disappoint.
Where is Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation positioned in the Indian Ocean, to the southeast of the Indian subcontinent. It’s positioned simply off the southeastern coast of India, separated from it by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar.
The nation is close to the equator, which provides it a tropical local weather. Its nearest neighbors, aside from India, are the Maldives to the southwest and Indonesia and Thailand to the east.
Sri Lanka is legendary for its numerous landscapes that vary from rainforests and arid plains to highlands and sandy seashores. The nation’s coordinates are roughly 7.8731° N latitude, 80.7718° E longitude.
When is the Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a year-round vacation spot due to its tropical local weather and the 2 separate monsoon seasons affecting completely different elements of the nation at completely different occasions. However, the perfect time to go to can rely on which elements of the nation you’re planning to discover.
For the West and South Coasts and Hill Country: The finest time to go to these areas is between December and March. During this era, these areas are normally dry and expertise much less rainfall. Locations similar to Colombo, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella fall into this class. This interval can also be splendid for beachgoers aiming for the south-western coasts. For the East Coast and Northern areas: The climate is normally finest from April or May to September. Destinations like Trincomalee, Pasikudah, Arugam Bay, and Jaffna have stunning climate throughout these months. If you’re in browsing, Arugam Bay on the east coast has its excessive season between April and October. For Wildlife Enthusiasts: The Yala and Wilpattu nationwide parks, well-known for his or her leopard and elephant populations, normally shut for about six weeks between September and October for the animals’ mating season. For whale watching in Mirissa, the height season is from November to April.
Remember, the climate will be unpredictable, and it’s not unusual to expertise a little bit rain even throughout the dry season. However, these common tips ought to allow you to plan your go to for the absolute best climate. As at all times, it’s a good suggestion to examine the forecast and plan your actions accordingly while you’re making ready to your journey.
How to Get to Sri Lanka
The most typical method to get to Sri Lanka is by air, touchdown at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), which is the first worldwide gateway into the nation. The airport is positioned in Katunayake, about 33 kilometers north of Colombo, the nation’s capital.
Here’s a common information on the way you would possibly get to Sri Lanka from completely different elements of the world:
From the United States or Canada: There aren’t any direct flights from North America to Sri Lanka. However, many airways provide one-stop flights, normally by Middle Eastern hubs similar to Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways). You might additionally fly by way of European cities like London (British Airways), Frankfurt (Lufthansa), or Paris (Air France). From Europe: Many main cities in Europe have flights to Sri Lanka. As talked about above, you’ll be able to fly direct from London with British Airways. Other airways like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways additionally provide one-stop flights by their respective hubs. From Australia or New Zealand: Again, there aren’t any direct flights, however a number of airways provide one-stop companies, typically by way of Middle Eastern or Asian cities. For occasion, you might fly with Emirates by way of Dubai or with Singapore Airlines by way of Singapore. From Asia: There are quite a few direct flights from many Asian cities to Sri Lanka. For occasion, SriLankan Airlines, the nation’s nationwide provider, operates direct flights from a number of cities in India, China, Japan, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia.
Once you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be able to journey to Colombo metropolis middle by taxi, which takes about 30-60 minutes relying on visitors. Alternatively, you’ll be able to take a bus or a practice, that are cheaper choices however take longer.
Remember to examine visa necessities earlier than you journey. As of my information cutoff in September 2021, most guests want to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) earlier than arrival. Be certain to examine the newest info, as journey advisories can change.
Do you’ve another ideas of issues to do in Sri Lanka? We’d love to hear in the feedback under.