We love Sri Lanka. Having visited Sri Lanka 4 occasions, we nonetheless handle to find one thing new. It is likely one of the few international locations that we really felt unhappy leaving. Whereas visiting this lovely island positioned off the southern coast of India in the midst 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.
Prime Issues to Do in Sri Lanka
This Sri Lanka journey information will enable you to plan the proper journey for once you journey to Sri Lanka.
1. Go Browsing
No Sri Lanka journey can be full with out getting within 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 aren’t the large intimidating pipes seen in Hawaii or Australia.
When you have by no means surfed earlier than, Hikkiduwa in Sri Lanka is the place to do it. It is vitally straightforward to be taught right here and the situations are excellent for the first-timer. So in case you are searching for one thing to do in Sri Lanka, give browsing a attempt!
There are many issues to do in Hikkaduwa in addition to browsing. It has a protracted sandy seaside full of seaside bars, resorts and purchasing. So spend a little bit of time chilling on this standard expat city.
2. Aragum Bay
On the west coast of Sri Lanka, there’s a preferred seaside that provides greater and higher waves that’s an superior spot for browsing referred to as Aragum Bay. That 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 make sure that to examine when browsing on the west coast is standard.
Arugam Bay, with its excellent waves, grew to become our favourite spot for browsing. Whilst learners, we loved the fun of using the waves on this surfer’s paradise. However browsing isn’t all Arugam Bay gives. Its relaxed vibe and exquisite 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. Should 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 beloved its fashionable facilities and site. Situated immediately on the seaside and near all of the motion. Verify Opinions and Availability right here
2. Go to Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Nothing ready us for the awe-inspiring sight of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Often known as the ‘Lion Rock Fortress,’ this historic palace and fortress advanced enthralled us with its sheer magnitude and ingenuity. The arduous climb to the highest was immediately rewarded with panoramic views of the encircling landscapes, one thing that can stay etched in our reminiscences endlessly.
Through the climb, take your time to see its spectacular frescoes, the mirror wall, and the lion gate. The vital archeological website may be very spectacular. Gracing the covers of many Sri Lankan Information books, this UNESCO World Heritage Web site is certainly one of Sri Lanka’s most recognizable websites.
It is usually set in a stupendous 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 lovely view with a formidable museum as effectively.
Mountaineering to the highest of Sigiriya Rock is a deal with providing views of the encircling jungle. It takes about an hour to get to the highest of Sigiriya Rock and it’s sizzling. Attempt to go within the morning for cooler temperatures. Should you love 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 Nationwide Park
Yala Nationwide Park is likely one of the few locations on the planet the place you possibly can see a leopard. I put Yala up there as certainly one of our prime issues to do in Sri Lanka. We had a lot enjoyable taking a look at all of the wildlife and four-wheeling by means of the park in our safari truck. Hanging out and making new pals 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 call just a few.
You gained’t be dissatisfied on a jeep safari and it’s the greatest place on the planet to identify leopards! Even should you don’t see a leopard, you will note a stupendous panorama and an abundance of untamed animals.
Nevertheless, 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 attempt to see one once more on one other safari.
The anticipation of recognizing a leopard lurking behind the bushes or an elephant frolicking within the water was thrilling. Every safari experience 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 Nationwide Park gates. It’s pure luxurious and you are feeling as in case you are staying throughout the park with wildlife roaming freely. Verify Costs and Opinions on TripAdvisor or Reserving.com
4. Be part of the Adam’s Peak Pilgrimage
For my part, the highest attraction of Sri Lanka is Adam’s Peak. Our climb to the highest of Adam’s Peak at dawn was probably the greatest experiences we’ve ever had within the nation. Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred website and you’ll be a 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 solid down from Heaven.
It’s a climb that doesn’t require any technical ability, however it’s a exercise. You’ll really feel a terrific sense of accomplishment participating on this non secular journey. Adam’s Peak is by far our prime advice of issues that you must make sure that to do when visiting the nation. This climb is what drew us to go to Sri Lanka within the first 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 have been a sight to behold.
5. Journey the Practice
One of many issues you need to issues to do in Sri Lanka is experience the trains. Sri Lankan trains are like stepping again in time. They chug slowly alongside by means of hills and valleys. It’s the sluggish journey that makes it particular.
Searching over the mountains and tea plantations rival any view on the planet and the individuals that you just meet on the prepare can be remembered endlessly. So in case you are planning a visit to Sri Lanka make sure that this makes your to-do checklist and take the time to journey by prepare. It is going to be an expertise you’ll keep in mind and cherish endlessly.
A prime prepare journey in Sri Lanka is to Ella. Whenever you take this prepare you’ll cross the well-known 9 Arch Bridge that has grow to be Instafamous lately with backpackers taking Instagram-worthy photographs of the historic landmark.
The prepare experience from Kandy to Ella was past mesmerizing. Winding by means of 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.
After we made the journey once more, we opted for the remark automobile. Watching the altering landscapes from the broad home windows, sipping on native tea, and interacting with pleasant locals made the journey an unforgettable expertise. If there’s one factor you need to 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 on the planet 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. Among the finest locations to sip tea is within the city of Nuwara Eliya.
The vegetation is lush and inexperienced and the rolling hills make for an superior website. Fake you’re in jolly outdated England for just a few days. Keep in outdated plantation houses, 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 lovely and you are feeling as in case you are in one other world.
Our first impression of Nuwara Eliya was of a lush inexperienced paradise. Often known as 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 mountaineering 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 Nationwide Park
Sri Lanka is full of nationwide parks and trekking by means of Uda Walawe is a superb escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities. What’s particular about this park nevertheless is the Elephant Transit Dwelling an orphanage and rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured elephants supported by the Born Free Basis.
You may watch elephants being fed, however not like the Pinawale Orphanage, the ETH cares just for the elephants effectively being. They’ve as little interplay with people as doable.
To date 65 wild elephants have been rehabilitated and let again into the wild. When you have your coronary heart set on seeing and serving to elephants, we recommend going to Udawalwe over the opposite Elephant Rehabilitation Centres. They’re doing a terrific 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 certainly one of Sri Lanka’s 8 UNESCO World Heritage Websites and is certainly price spending a while exploring.
Take a tour of the advanced to see the king and queen’s palace, the temple of the tooth, and the royal courtroom. You’ll want 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 have been highlights of our go to. Kandy’s distinctive mix of custom and pure allure was merely irresistible.
Throughout our subsequent go to, we explored the Royal Botanical Gardens, trekked by means of Udawattakele Forest Reserve, and skilled a standard Kandyan dance efficiency. Each second in Kandy revealed a brand new side 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’s 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 means of the slim lanes straightforward and free from visitors.
There are picturesque seashores and it’s right here that you would be able to 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 the hunt for these fishermen, they really are a stupendous 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 superb previous. This UNESCO World Heritage Web site left an enduring impression on us.
Throughout our return, we selected to discover Polonnaruwa on bicycles. Driving across the historic metropolis, taking within the sights at our personal tempo, and discovering lesser-known ruins made the expertise much more particular. Historical past lovers or not, Polonnaruwa has a mystic allure that no customer can resist.
The traditional metropolis of Polonnaruwa is Sri Lanka’s second oldest kingdom courting 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 by means of time.
11. Hike to Pidurangala Rock
We loved mountaineering Pidurangala Rock to see Sigiriya Rock at sundown greater than really visiting Sigiriya Rock. It’s a nice sundown hike that takes you up a mountain adjoining to Sigiriya, providing wonderful 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 solution to the highest of Pidurangala Rock. The views are out of this world and provide 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 wonderful place to view wildlife in Sri Lanka. Rent 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 that you would be able to get out of the jeep and hike as much as a excessive lookout.
Designated a biosphere reserve in 1977, Huluru Eco Park is a crucial habitat for Sri Lanka’s Elephants.
14. Go to a Turtle Hatchery
Our subsequent suggestion for issues to do in Sri Lana is to go to a Turtle hatchery. Sea Turtles are underneath nice risk because of fishing, air pollution, habitat loss, and looking. Of all of the Sri Lanka vacationer locations, that is an attraction that can really fill your coronary heart. Turtle Hatcheries are doing their greatest to maintain the turtle numbers alive and effectively. Among the finest is The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. He loves turtles and lets them into the ocean nightly.
You may even participate of their launch should you go at sundown. An individual can’t go to Sri Lanka with out visiting a turtle hatchery. It’s a proper of passage of visiting the nation.
15. Hike to Ella Rock
The city of Ella feels extra like an English Nation village than a South Asian neighborhood. Full with crimson cellphone cubicles, a horse monitor, and even superb white-glove eating you’re feeling as in case you are in Little Britain moderately than Sri Lanka.
It’s a terrific place to make a base for just a few days to discover. Among the finest hikes in Sri Lanka is the hike to Ella Rock. The Mountaineering Path to Ella is a must-do when visiting the world. The favored trek right here is Ella Rock positioned 5km exterior of city. It gives nice panoramic views of the hill nation and tea terraces and is an efficient 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 likely one of the hottest mountaineering locations in Sri Lanka, positioned close to the city of Ella within the mountainous Uva Province. Named because of 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 straightforward and really accessible, making it a favourite amongst vacationers and locals alike. It usually takes between 1 to 2 hours to finish, relying in your tempo. The path begins at Ella city and passes by means of lush, inexperienced tea plantations, providing hikers picturesque views alongside the best way.
Some of the important options of the Little Adam’s Peak hike is the panoramic view on the summit. From the highest, you’re rewarded with gorgeous views of the encircling panorama, which incorporates the Ella Rock, the sprawling tea estates, the deep valleys, and the huge countryside. On a transparent day, you may also see the towering peaks of the central highlands within the distance.
The path is well-marked, so that you don’t want a information to achieve the height. The preliminary a part of the hike is a mild climb by means of a tea plantation. The final part consists of a collection of steps main as much as the summit. Whereas the steps could be a bit strenuous for some, the hike is mostly thought of appropriate for individuals of all health ranges.
The very best time to begin the hike is early within the morning to keep away from the afternoon warmth and to catch the dawn on the summit. Alternatively, mountaineering within the late afternoon permits you to witness a wide ranging sundown.
Little Adam’s Peak hike is an thrilling journey for these visiting Sri Lanka. It gives a mild introduction to the nation’s mountainous terrain and gives some really unforgettable views. Whether or not you’re an avid hiker or an informal walker, this trek is certainly one so as to add to your itinerary.
17. Hike to the 9 Arch Bridge
The 9 Arch Bridge is likely one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. Situated within the mountain city of Ella, this viaduct is a marvel of engineering and has a stupendous, virtually fairy-tale-like presence amidst the luxurious 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 toes) and spans roughly 91 meters (300 toes). What makes the 9 Arch Bridge notably fascinating is that it’s constructed totally of bricks, rocks, and cement, with no use of metal or metallic all through its construction.
The bridge will get its title 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 9 Arch Bridge is positioned on the Demodara loop, a railway line that winds by means of the highlands of Sri Lanka. The loop itself is thought for its gorgeous views and scenic prepare rides, making the bridge a preferred spot for vacationers and photographers. When a prepare passes over the 9 Arch Bridge towards the backdrop of lush forests and tea plantations, it’s a sight to behold.
Moreover its architectural splendor, the 9 Arch Bridge has a captivating historical past. It’s sometimes called the “Bridge within the Sky” because of 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 undertaking.
18. Anuradhapura Sri Lanka
What I like once I journey to Sri Lanka is how fashionable civilization lives in concord with its historic previous. Anuradhapura is one other UNESCO World Heritage Web 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 efficient solution to find out about historic Sri Lanka civilization. The towering dagobas, historic swimming pools, and complex stone carvings left us speechless. However what stole our hearts was the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, a sapling from the very tree underneath which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It stood there, serene but highly effective, epitomizing non secular resilience.
19. Uncover Galle
Galle, with its historic Dutch Fort, charmed us with its quaint magnificence. It’s a picturesque metropolis surrounded by a wall constructed by the Dutch within the seventeenth Century. Strolling alongside the fort partitions, exploring the slim lanes, and watching the sundown from the ramparts was like getting into a unique 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 certainly one of Sri Lanka’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Websites. Take a stroll across the metropolis to discover the colonial buildings. Colonial customs are nonetheless sturdy in Galle and you’ll have afternoon tea at one of many high-end motels. In case you are fortunate, you may even see some locals cliff diving from the excessive partitions.
20. Farm Go to
Cinnamon Wild hosts a farm go to to assist hold livestock secure from leopards, which in flip saves the leopards of Sri Lanka. They supply fences and security for the cattle in order that leopards don’t snatch the calves.
Prior to now 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 within the wild. A farm go to is an excellent solution to be taught and perceive what it’s wish 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. Strolling by means of Pettah Market, we have been captivated by the colourful stalls, fragrant spices, and buzzing vitality. It was a sensory overload however in the absolute best approach.
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, purchasing in Colombo was an journey in itself. Should you’re a shopaholic or just love the chaos and allure of native markets, Colombo gained’t disappoint.
Colombo is a bustling metropolis full of luxurious motels and the Capital Metropolis of Sri Lanka. We stayed on the Cinnamon Grand. An expensive lodge within the coronary heart of downtown.
Colombo has come a good distance since we first visited in 2010. It now could be a bustling metropolis with superb eating, nightclubs, rooftop patios, and cafes. Our favourite rooftop bar was on the Cinnamon Pink Boutique Resort.
Issues to do in Colombo
- Nationwide Museum
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Simamalaka Shrine on Beira Lake
- Get misplaced within the streets of Pettah
- Discover Colombo’s Colonial Buildings
22. Kaudulla Nationwide Park
There are 26 nationwide parks in Sri Lanka and chances are high you will note elephants. However once you go to Kaudulla Nationwide Park, you’ll actually see a whole lot of elephants.
Kaudulla Nationwide Park is completely different from the opposite parks as this one appears to be solely devoted to herds of elephants. We have 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 Nationwide Park
Should you nonetheless need extra elephants, Minneriya Nationwide Park is a much more standard spot to see them than Kaudulla. However you will note extra vacationers.
It’s the largest identified gathering of Asian elephants on the planet and taking a personal jeep safari is the easiest way to rise up shut and private with these majestic creatures.
There could possibly be a complete submit in regards to the nationwide parks of Sri Lanka. For a small island nation, that is staggering. Different nationwide parks to go to in Sri Lanka embrace Wilpattu Nationwide 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’re the friendliest individuals we’ve met in all our travels and we made nice pals with our Tuk Tuk driver Ajith and his household.
What an exquisite expertise getting a glimpse of native life within the nation. In case you are privileged sufficient to be invited to dinner, take it. It’s a heartwarming night full of real hospitality. The Sri Lankan persons are a number of the friendliest individuals on the planet.
Unawatuna, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, rapidly grew to become our favourite place to unwind. The seaside city’s relaxed vibe was the proper antidote to our city fatigue. Whether or not it was lounging on the seaside, savoring scrumptious seafood, or swimming within the clear waters, Unawatuna was the epitome of seaside bliss.
25. Laze on the Seaside
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 standard seashores, however you’ll find secluded seashores all alongside Sri Lanka’s coast.
Some are eroding away, however others are pristine. Hire a bicycle or bike 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, positioned within the southern a part of Sri Lanka, is the most well-liked base for whale watching. Different websites embrace Trincomalee within the northeast and Kalpitiya for watching dolphins.
The excursions often begin early within the morning, round 6 am, and might final anyplace from 3 to five 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 will be fairly lengthy and the waters can get tough, particularly in case you are touring in the course of 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 wide ranging expertise. They’re magnificent creatures, and sightings typically embrace the enduring spray as they floor and the majestic sight of their huge our bodies gliding by means of the water.
Aside from the blue whales, you may additionally see sperm whales, and should you’re fortunate, orcas. It’s additionally frequent to identify numerous species of dolphins, together with spinner, bottlenose, and striped dolphins. Sea turtles and flying fish are different marine animals that may typically be seen in the course of the tour. Keep in mind that wildlife viewing is all the time a matter of luck and persistence. There will be days once you may not spot any whales. The skilled boat guides, nevertheless, often have a good suggestion of the place to seek out them.The height 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. Select operators that respect the animals by maintaining a secure distance, not chasing the whales, limiting the noise, and avoiding any type of littering. Total, whale watching in Sri Lanka is a magical, unforgettable expertise, providing a novel alternative to watch these majestic creatures of their pure setting.
27. Go Dolphin Watching
Mirissa stole our hearts with the prospect to witness majestic whales and playful dolphins of 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 lovely seaside submit our whale-watching expedition. The gorgeous sundown, the tranquil seaside, and the laid-back vibe supplied the proper setting to reminisce about our pleasant encounter with marine life. Should you love wildlife and serene seashores, Mirissa is the place to be.
28. Go to Jaffna
Visiting Jaffna, the colourful metropolis within 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.
Throughout 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, gives a enriching journey expertise.
29. Discover Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple left us in awe of its spiritual significance and creative grandeur. The assorted Buddha statues and complex murals contained in the caves have 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 wide ranging view of Sigiriya and the encircling landscapes.
30. Take pleasure in Water Sports activities in Bentota
Bentota, with its lovely seashores and azure waters, supplied us the proper setting for water sports activities. Whether or not it was jet-skiing, windsurfing, or an exciting banana boat experience, Bentota had one thing for each journey fanatic.
After 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’s closely influenced by Indian delicacies and listed below are some Sri Lankan dishes that you need to attempt when visiting Sri Lanka. Rice and Curry are usually 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 avenue 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’s typically 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 so as to add taste to many dishes or just unfold on bread.
32. Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Situated within the Royal Palace of Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth homes Sri Lanka’s most vital Buddhist Relic. When you have 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 can be within 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 within the Royal palace in The Temple of the Tooth.
Loosen up within the Seaside City 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 unique 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 Journey
Sri Lanka has every little thing {that a} traveler may presumably need. Journey, spirituality, superb seashores, and nightlife. A trip to this vacation spot won’t ever disappoint.
The place is Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation positioned within 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 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 Greatest Time to Go to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a year-round vacation spot because of its tropical local weather and the 2 separate monsoon seasons affecting completely different components of the nation at completely different occasions. Nevertheless, 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 Nation: The very best time to go to these areas is between December and March. Throughout this era, these areas are often dry and expertise much less rainfall. Areas corresponding to Colombo, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella fall into this class. This era can be superb for beachgoers aiming for the south-western coasts.
- For the East Coast and Northern areas: The climate is often greatest from April or Might to September. Locations like Trincomalee, Pasikudah, Arugam Bay, and Jaffna have lovely climate throughout these months. Should you’re concerned about browsing, Arugam Bay on the east coast has its excessive season between April and October.
- For Wildlife Fanatics: The Yala and Wilpattu nationwide parks, well-known for his or her leopard and elephant populations, often 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.
Keep in mind, the climate will be unpredictable, and it’s not unusual to expertise a bit of rain even in the course of the dry season. Nevertheless, these normal tips ought to enable you to plan your go to for the absolute best climate. As all the time, it’s a good suggestion to examine the forecast and plan your actions accordingly once you’re making ready in your journey.
How one can Get to Sri Lanka
The commonest solution to get to Sri Lanka is by air, touchdown at Bandaranaike Worldwide 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.
Right here’s a normal information on the way you may get to Sri Lanka from completely different components of the world:
- From the US or Canada: There are not any direct flights from North America to Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, many airways provide one-stop flights, often by means of Center Japanese hubs corresponding to Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Abu Dhabi (Etihad Airways). You could possibly 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. Different airways like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways additionally provide one-stop flights by means of their respective hubs.
- From Australia or New Zealand: Once more, there are not any direct flights, however a number of airways provide one-stop companies, typically through Center Japanese or Asian cities. For example, you would fly with Emirates through Dubai or with Singapore Airways through Singapore.
- From Asia: There are quite a few direct flights from many Asian cities to Sri Lanka. For example, SriLankan Airways, the nation’s nationwide provider, operates direct flights from a number of cities in India, China, Japan, the Maldives, and Southeast Asia.
When you arrive at Bandaranaike Worldwide Airport, you possibly can journey to Colombo metropolis heart by taxi, which takes about 30-60 minutes relying on visitors. Alternatively, you possibly can take a bus or a prepare, that are cheaper choices however take longer.
Keep in mind to examine visa necessities earlier than you journey. As of my data cutoff in September 2021, most guests want to use for an Digital Journey Authorization (ETA) earlier than arrival. You’ll want to examine the newest data, as journey advisories can change.
Do you will have another options of issues to do in Sri Lanka? We’d love to listen to within the feedback beneath.
