Table of Contents
Introduction
Known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a breathtaking island nation located off the southeastern coast of India. With pristine beaches, ancient Buddhist temples, lush tea plantations, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural traditions, this tropical paradise has something to offer every traveler. Read on to learn all you need to know to plan your own unforgettable journey to Sri Lanka.
Getting There
The main entry point for most travelers is Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, located about 20 miles north of Colombo. Numerous international airlines offer direct flights to Colombo from major hubs like Singapore, Bangkok, Doha, and Dubai. SriLankan Airlines is the national carrier. For those looking for a more scenic arrival, passenger ships dock at the Port of Colombo. Cruise liners like Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises include Colombo on their Indian Ocean itineraries.
Top Destinations
From ancient ruins to mountain retreats, here are some of Sri Lanka’s top spots to explore.
Colombo
Sri Lanka’s capital and largest city, Colombo offers a pulsating urban vibe. Wander through Pettah’s bustling bazaars, take in sunset views along Galle Face Green, and don’t miss the National Museum’s treasures.
Kandy
Nestled amid verdant hills, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth, said to house Buddha’s actual tooth relic. The city’s iconic Kandy Lake and annual Esala Perahera festival also draw visitors.
Galle
Encircled by imposing colonial fortifications, Galle offers colorful streets lined with Dutch-era buildings. Nearby Unawatuna has great beaches and shipwrecks for diving.
Anuradhapura
This sacred ancient city, founded in 380 BCE, boasts magnificent Buddhist dagobas, monastic ruins, and the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree.
Sigiriya
The dramatic 200-meter tall Lion Rock is an incredible sight. Climb to the top for panoramic views and see the ancient frescoes along the way.
Nuwara Eliya
Sri Lanka’s “Little England” is a hill station retreat surrounded by tea estates. Hike through the tea trails or ride the train through stunning scenery.
Yala National Park
Home to elephants, leopards, and 215 bird species, Yala offers one of the world’s best wildlife safaris.
Ella
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country, Ella delights with lush tea plantations, scenic train rides, and exciting hikes like the climb to Adam’s Peak.
Mirissa
Mirissa draws travelers with its laidback coastal vibe, whale watching cruises, and surfing waves.
Unawatuna
Palm-lined beaches and coral reefs make Unawatuna a top spot to dive, snorkel, swim, or just relax oceanside.
Things to Do
From adrenaline-pumping adventures to cultural attractions, here are some top activities.
Go on safari at Yala National Park to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and buffalo roaming free. Scale Sigiriya Rock, an imposing 200-meter high granite outcrop with ancient ruins. Take a stroll along Colombo’s scenic Galle Face Green at sunset. Visit Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth relic and participate in the grand Esala Perahera Festival each August. Climb Adam’s Peak for stunning views at sunrise. Ride the trains through lush tea country in Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Relax on palm-fringed beaches in Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota. Look for Blue Whales on a boat tour from Mirissa. Hike through Ella’s tea plantations to waterfalls and viewpoints.
Accommodations
Sri Lanka boasts a wide range of inviting accommodations. Choose from international chain hotels in Colombo, intimate boutique hotels housed in restored colonial bungalows, beachside resorts, eco-friendly lodges tucked amid jungle or tea hills, or family-run homestays to get a local cultural experience. Advanced booking is recommended, especially around peak season from December to March.
Food and Drink
Sri Lankan cuisine, influenced by Indian, Dutch, Malay, and Portuguese flavors, is diverse and delicious. Sample hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu roti (chopped flatbread stir fry), and lamprais (rice boiled in stock). For curries, try creamy coconut-based fish or prawn dishes. Don’t miss tropical fruits like mangoes and jackfruit. Sip Ceylon tea or coconut water, and toast with toddy, an alcoholic drink tapped from palm trees. Be sure to drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
Shopping
Souvenir shopping abounds in Sri Lanka. In Colombo, haggle for deals at Pettah Market or browse designer boutiques in Cinnamon Gardens. Kandy offers handicrafts like masks, batik fabrics, and woodcarvings. Seek out fragrant spice gardens in Matale. For gems, head to Ratnapura’s markets or trusted shops in Colombo. Support local artisans by buying handicrafts in villages.
Transport
Navigating Sri Lanka can be part of the adventure. Intrepid travelers can hire a tuk tuk, an auto rickshaw with no doors ideal for feeling the tropical breeze. For longer journeys, public buses connect major destinations very cheaply, though travel times can be lengthy. For convenience, hire a car and driver or self-drive a rental car. First class trains are comfortable and scenic. Consider domestic flights to cut travel times between far-flung spots.
Best Times to Visit
December through March brings sunny blue skies and pleasant temperatures ideal for the beaches. From May to September, the southwest monsoon brings rain, but the east coast remains sunny. Avoid October to January, when the northeast monsoon causes heavy downpours. Whale watching is best from November to April. For cultural festivals, visit in August for Kandy’s Esala Perahera or April for the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year.
Budgeting
Sri Lanka offers good value for budget-conscious travelers. Accommodations average $30-50 USD for budget guesthouses or homestays per night, or $100+ for upscale hotels. Public transport is quite cheap, while hiring a driver costs around $25-50 per day. Eat affordably at local cafes for under $5 per meal or splurge at nicer restaurants. Attraction tickets range from $5-50. Overall, daily costs often total around $50-100 per person.
Health and Safety
Visit your doctor to get necessary vaccinations and malaria medication if needed, especially when spending time in jungle areas. Drink only bottled water and be cautious about eating fresh fruits/veggies or street food. Road accidents are common, so exercise caution, especially when using tuk tuks or buses. Avoid deserted beaches or forests alone. Always tell someone where you are going. Terrorism risks are generally low, but check government advisories.
Sri Lankan Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering homes and Buddhist sites. Dress modestly, covering legs and shoulders at temples. Use your right hand only for greeting, eating, or receiving items. Get tips? Restaurant bills usually include a service charge, but you can leave extra at your discretion. Learn a few Sinhala phrases like “hello” (Ayubowan) to interact respectfully.
Sustainable Travel
Make eco-friendly choices to preserve Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural treasures. Select certified sustainable accommodation. Ride trains and public transport versus cars. Say no to plastic bottles and straws. Shop at local cooperatives supporting traditional crafts. Choose ethical tour companies that give back to communities. Consider donating to a local cause like elephant conservation.
Conclusion
Renowned for its stunning scenery, warm hospitality, rich culture, and flavorful cuisine, the tropical island of Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable travel experience. With gilded temples, energetic cities, wildlife-filled jungles, and picture-perfect beaches, Sri Lanka exceeds expectations. By following responsible travel tips, we help ensure these wonders exist for generations to come. The pearl of the Indian Ocean awaits – start planning your own journey today!
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka?
The best time is during the dry season from December to March when skies are sunny and rainfall is minimal, especially on the west and south coasts.
Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Citizens of certain countries like the Maldives, Singapore, and Thailand can obtain free 30-day tourist visas on arrival. Many other nationalities, including the USA, UK, Canada, and EU, need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival.
What vaccinations are recommended for Sri Lanka?
Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, tetanus, and rabies. Malaria medication may be suggested if spending time in remote areas.
What is the currency used in Sri Lanka?
The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). US dollars are also widely accepted. Have local currency for rural areas, markets, buses. ATMs are common in major cities.
Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?
Sri Lanka is generally safe, with occasional petty crime like pickpocketing. Always exercise caution, avoid deserted areas, don’t leave valuables unattended, and check government travel advisories for current information.