31 Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka in 2023

We love Sri Lanka. Having visited Sri Lanka 4 instances, we nonetheless handle to uncover one thing new. It is likely one of the few nations that we truly felt unhappy leaving. While visiting this stunning island situated 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 seashore.

Top Things to Do in Sri Lanka

This Sri Lanka journey information will make it easier to plan the right 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 should not the large 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 simple to study right here and the situations are excellent for the first-timer. So if you’re on the lookout for one thing to do in Sri Lanka, give browsing a strive!

There are loads of issues to do in Hikkaduwa moreover browsing. It has a protracted sandy seashore full of seashore bars, resorts and purchasing. So spend a little bit of time chilling in this fashionable expat city.

2. Aragum Bay

On the west coast of Sri Lanka, there’s a fashionable seashore that provides larger and higher waves that’s an superior spot for browsing known as Aragum Bay. This is the place you’ll discover lots of surfers hanging out ready to catch a wave. The season is completely different than Hikkaduwa’s nonetheless, so ensure to examine when browsing on the west coast is fashionable.

Arugam Bay, with its excellent waves, turned our favourite spot for browsing. Even as newbies, we loved the joys of using the waves in this surfer’s paradise. But browsing shouldn’t be all Arugam Bay affords. Its relaxed vibe and exquisite seashores make it an ideal getaway.

Make positive to discover the native delicacies and the nightlife of Arugam Bay. The delectable seafood, coupled with vigorous seashore events, made our keep unforgettable. If you’re searching for journey or simply want to chill, Arugam Bay is a superb selection.

We stayed on the Hikka Trans by Cinnamon and beloved its trendy facilities and site. Located immediately on the seashore 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 historical 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 can stay etched in our recollections eternally.

During the climb, take your time to see its spectacular frescoes, the mirror wall, and the lion gate. The vital archeological website 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 value is steep, however it’s a stunning view with a formidable 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 sizzling. Try to go in the morning for cooler temperatures. If you like 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 likely one of the few locations in the world the place you possibly can see a leopard. I put Yala up there as considered one of our prime issues to do in Sri Lanka. We had a lot enjoyable all of the wildlife and four-wheeling via the park in our safari truck. Hanging out and making new mates was a part of the enjoyable!

This unimaginable reserve in Southern Sri Lanka is full of wildlife. Leopards, solar bears, wild elephants, water buffalo, peacocks, monkeys, jackals, crocodiles, and monitor lizards to identify just a few.

You gained’t be upset on a jeep safari and it’s the finest place in the world to spot leopards! Even should you don’t see a leopard, you will note a wonderful panorama and an abundance of untamed animals.

However, chances are high fairly good that you will note a leopard and costs are so affordable, that even should you don’t, you possibly can 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 experience was a roll of the cube, and the unpredictability made it all of the extra thrilling. Yala is not only a wildlife safari, it’s a charming encounter with nature that leaves you with recollections 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 if you’re 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 the most effective experiences we’ve ever had in the nation. Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred website and you’ll be part of 1000’s 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 ability, however it’s a exercise. You will really feel a terrific sense of accomplishment participating in this non secular journey. Adam’s Peak is by far our prime advice of issues that it is best to ensure 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 recognized 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 you should issues to do in Sri Lanka is experience the trains. Sri Lankan trains are like stepping again in time. They chug slowly alongside via 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 prepare shall be remembered eternally. So if you’re planning a visit to Sri Lanka ensure this makes your to-do listing and take the time to journey by prepare. It shall be an expertise you’ll bear in mind and cherish eternally.

A prime prepare journey in Sri Lanka is to Ella. When you are taking this prepare you’ll cross the well-known Nine Arch Bridge that has grow to be Instafamous in current years with backpackers taking Instagram-worthy photographs of the historic landmark.

The prepare experience from Kandy to Ella was past mesmerizing. Winding via misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and charming villages, this journey was the epitome of scenic magnificence. The prepare experience 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 statement automobile. Watching the altering landscapes from the vast home windows, sipping on native tea, and interacting with pleasant locals made the journey an unforgettable expertise. If there’s one factor you should not miss in Sri Lanka, it’s this magical prepare experience.

6. Sip Tea in Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka is likely 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 one of the best 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 website. Pretend you might be in jolly outdated England for just a few 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 if you’re 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 realized in regards to 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 mountain climbing in Horton Plains, each expertise added to the attract of this picturesque city. Nuwara Eliya, with its colonial attraction and pure magnificence, is a must-visit vacation spot in Sri Lanka.

7. Go to Udawalawe National Park

Sri Lanka is full of nationwide parks and trekking via Uda Walawe is a good escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities. What is particular about this park nonetheless 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 doable. 

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 a terrific job.

8. Royal Palace of Kandy

Kandy was the previous historical 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 price 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 court docket. Be positive to costume 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 attraction was merely irresistible.

During our subsequent go to, we explored the Royal Botanical Gardens, trekked via Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and skilled a conventional Kandyan dance efficiency. Every second in Kandy revealed a brand new aspect of its multifaceted character, making us admire this vibrant metropolis much more.

9. Una Watuna

Many individuals journey to Sri Lanka for its seashores and Una Watuna is likely one of the hottest. It is a seashore city on the south coast of Sri Lanka. What makes it particular is the truth that the freeway bypasses the city making strolling via the slim lanes simple and free from site visitors.

There are picturesque seashores and it’s right here which you could 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 in regards to the Kingdom’s wonderful previous. This UNESCO World Heritage Site left an enduring impression on us.

During our return, we selected to discover Polonnaruwa on bicycles. Riding across the historical metropolis, taking in the sights at our personal tempo, and discovering lesser-known ruins made the expertise much more particular. History lovers or not, Polonnaruwa has a mystic attraction that no customer can resist.

The historical metropolis of Polonnaruwa is Sri Lanka’s second oldest kingdom relationship again to 1070. This UNESCO listed website remains to be inhabited by individuals. It’s in nice form with many monuments nonetheless standing. It’s not as giant as most of the different ruins we visited round Asia, however it’s a fascinating stroll via time.

11. Hike to Pidurangala Rock

We loved mountain climbing Pidurangala Rock to see Sigiriya Rock at sundown greater than truly visiting Sigiriya Rock. It is a good 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 go historical monasteries and tombs as you make your method to the highest of Pidurangala Rock. The views are out of this world and supply one of the best 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 glorious place to view wildlife in Sri Lanka. Hire a truck and go on safari to see one of the best of Sri Lankan wildlife. We noticed elephants and monkeys and what makes this park particular, is which you could 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 below nice risk due to fishing, air pollution, habitat loss, and searching. Of all of the Sri Lanka vacationer locations, that is an attraction that can really fill your coronary heart. Turtle Hatcheries are doing their finest to preserve the turtle numbers alive and properly.  One of one of the best is The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. He loves turtles and lets them into the ocean nightly.

You may even participate in their launch should you 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 purple cellphone cubicles, a horse monitor, and even advantageous white-glove eating you are feeling as if you’re in Little Britain fairly than Sri Lanka.

It’s a terrific place to make a base for just a few days to discover. One of one of the best hikes in Sri Lanka is the hike to Ella Rock. The Hiking Trail to Ella is a must-do when visiting the realm. The fashionable trek right here is Ella Rock situated 5km outdoors of city. It affords nice panoramic views of the hill nation and tea terraces and is an effective day journey if you’re up for a steep and difficult hike.

16. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak

Little Adam’s Peak is likely one of the hottest mountain climbing locations in Sri Lanka, situated close to the city of Ella in the mountainous Uva Province. Named due to its resemblance to the tougher 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 degree.

The hike to Little Adam’s Peak is comparatively simple 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 via lush, inexperienced tea plantations, providing hikers picturesque views alongside the best way.

One of essentially the most vital 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 space.

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 mild climb via a tea plantation. The final part consists of a collection of steps main up to the summit. While the steps is usually 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, mountain 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 supplies a mild introduction to the nation’s mountainous terrain and affords some really unforgettable views. Whether you’re an avid hiker or an off-the-cuff walker, this trek is unquestionably one to add to your itinerary.

17. Hike to the Nine Arch Bridge

The Nine Arch Bridge is likely 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, virtually fairy-tale-like presence amidst the plush greenery.

The bridge was constructed in the course of the British colonial interval, across the early twentieth century. It stands at a peak of about 24 meters (80 ft) and spans roughly 91 meters (300 ft). What makes the Nine Arch Bridge significantly attention-grabbing is that it’s constructed fully of bricks, rocks, and cement, with no use of metal or metallic all through its construction.

The bridge will get its identify from its building and design, which incorporates 9 arches. The arches are completely aligned and symmetrically designed, demonstrating the precision and ability of the employees who constructed them.

The Nine Arch Bridge is situated on the Demodara loop, a railway line that winds via the highlands of Sri Lanka. The loop itself is thought for its gorgeous views and scenic prepare rides, making the bridge a well-liked spot for vacationers and photographers. When a prepare passes over the Nine Arch Bridge towards 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 usually referred to because the “Bridge in the Sky” due to its peak and the misty clouds that always encompass it. There are quite a few native legends in regards to the bridge, together with one a few self-taught native builder who took over the development of the bridge when the unique British engineers deserted the mission.

18. Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

What I like once I journey to Sri Lanka is how trendy civilization lives in concord with its historical 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 study historical Sri Lanka civilization. The towering dagobas, historical swimming pools, and complex stone carvings left us speechless. But what stole our hearts was the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, a sapling from the very tree below which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It stood there, serene but highly effective, epitomizing non secular 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 slim lanes, and watching the sundown from the ramparts was like getting into a special period. The colonial structure, cute boutiques, and quite a few cafes made us fall in love with Galle immediately.

Galle is situated 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 robust in Galle and you’ll have afternoon tea at one of many high-end accommodations. 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 preserve livestock secure 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 via Pettah Market, we had been captivated by the colourful stalls, fragrant spices, and buzzing power. It was a sensory overload however in the very best method.

On our subsequent visits, we explored different markets in Colombo, every with its distinctive choices. From contemporary produce and seafood in Manning Market to handicrafts in Laksala, purchasing in Colombo was an journey in itself. If you’re a shopaholic or just love the chaos and attraction of native markets, Colombo gained’t disappoint.

Colombo is a bustling metropolis full of luxurious accommodations and the Capital City of Sri Lanka. We stayed on the Cinnamon Grand. An expensive lodge in the center of downtown.

Colombo has come a good distance since we first visited in 2010. It now’s a bustling metropolis with advantageous 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 note elephants. But while you go to Kaudulla National Park, you’ll actually see tons 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 aspect, nevertheless it was this elephant that took a eager curiosity in our jeep and slowly inched in the 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 fashionable spot to see them than Kaudulla. But you will note extra vacationers.

It is the most important recognized gathering of Asian elephants in the world and taking a personal jeep safari is the easiest way to stand up shut and private with these majestic creatures.

There could possibly be a complete publish in regards to 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 mates 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 full of real hospitality. The Sri Lankan persons are a number of the friendliest individuals in the world.

Unawatuna, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, rapidly turned our favourite place to unwind. The seashore city’s relaxed vibe was the right antidote to our city fatigue. Whether it was lounging on the seashore, savoring scrumptious seafood, or swimming in the clear waters, Unawatuna was the epitome of seashore bliss.

25. Laze on the Beach

A visit to Sri Lanka wouldn’t be full with out visiting a seashore! Sri Lanka has some nice seashore life and there are a number of seashores to select from across the nation. Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Kosgoda are some fashionable seashores, however you could find 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 motive why individuals come to Sri Lanka and when you see them, you possibly can perceive why.

26. Go Whale Watching

The coastal city of Mirissa, situated 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 may final wherever 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 experience may be fairly lengthy and the waters can get tough, particularly if you’re touring in the course of the fringe of the season, so it’s really useful to take precautions if you’re susceptible to seasickness. Operators usually present life jackets, and a few supply mild 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 usually embrace the long-lasting spray as they floor and the majestic sight of their huge our bodies gliding via the water.

Apart from the blue whales, you may additionally see sperm whales, and should you’re fortunate, orcas. It’s additionally frequent to spot varied species of dolphins, together with spinner, bottlenose, and striped dolphins. Sea turtles and flying fish are different marine animals that may usually be seen in the course of the tour. Remember that wildlife viewing is at all times a matter of luck and endurance. There may be days while you won’t spot any whales. The skilled boat guides, nonetheless, 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 holding a secure 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 novel alternative to observe these majestic creatures in their pure setting.

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 experience, 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 seashore publish our whale-watching expedition. The gorgeous sundown, the tranquil seashore, and the laid-back vibe offered the right setting to reminisce about our pleasant encounter with marine life. If you like 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 exquisite temples to its poignant warfare 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, supplies a enriching journey expertise.

29. Explore Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple left us in awe of its non secular significance and creative grandeur. The varied Buddha statues and complex murals contained in the caves had been mesmerizing. Dambulla Cave Temple is not only 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 right setting for water sports activities. Whether it was jet-skiing, windsurfing, or an exhilarating banana boat experience, Bentota had one thing for each journey fanatic.

When we returned, we opted for a extra relaxed expertise – a ship experience on the Madu River. The experience, 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 true 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 you should strive when visiting Sri Lanka. Rice and Curry are sometimes eaten at lunch and are served with fish, rooster, 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 kind 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 aspect 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’ll have already been to the place Buddha first stepped foot on earth, and now should you go to the golden-roofed temple you’ll 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 special world altogether. If a mixture of leisure and leisure is what you search, look no additional than Unawatuna.

Watch our video to immerse in Sri Lanka Travel

Sri Lanka has every part {that a} traveler may presumably need. Adventure, spirituality, advantageous seashores, and nightlife. A trip to this vacation spot won’t ever disappoint.

Where is Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island nation situated 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 supplies 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 known for its various 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 components of the nation at completely different instances. However, one of the best time to go to can rely on which components 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 corresponding to Colombo, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella fall into this class. This interval can also be perfect 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 may be unpredictable, and it’s not unusual to expertise somewhat rain even in the course of the dry season. However, these normal pointers ought to make it easier to plan your go to for the very best climate. As at all times, it’s a good suggestion to examine the forecast and plan your actions accordingly while you’re getting ready to your journey.

How to Get to Sri Lanka

The commonest 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 situated in Katunayake, about 33 kilometers north of Colombo, the nation’s capital.

Here’s a normal information on the way you would possibly get to Sri Lanka from completely different components of the world:

From the United States or Canada: There are not any direct flights from North America to Sri Lanka. However, many airways supply one-stop flights, normally via Middle Eastern hubs corresponding to Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways). You may additionally fly through 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 possibly can fly direct from London with British Airways. Other airways like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways additionally supply one-stop flights via their respective hubs. From Australia or New Zealand: Again, there are not any direct flights, however a number of airways supply one-stop companies, usually through Middle Eastern or Asian cities. For occasion, you possibly can fly with Emirates through Dubai or with Singapore Airlines through 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 possibly can journey to Colombo metropolis middle by taxi, which takes about 30-60 minutes relying on site visitors. Alternatively, you possibly can take a bus or a prepare, 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 positive to examine the newest data, as journey advisories can change.

Do you’ve another options of issues to do in Sri Lanka? We’d love to hear in the feedback under.