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Travel Guide Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka, an island south of India crams an extraordinary variety of places to visit within its modest size. Lapped up by the Indian Ocean, the coastline is lined with idyllic – and often refreshingly undeveloped – beaches , while the mainland boasts a compelling variety of landscapes ranging from wildlife-rich lowland jungles to the misty highlands of the hills, swathed in tea plantations.

Sri Lanka travel facts

Where to go in sri lanka, best time to travel to sri lanka.

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Getting around Sri Lanka

10 best places in sri lanka, sri lanka travel itineraries, food and drink in sri lanka, drink in sri lanka, sri lankan buddhism.

You’ll find plenty of man-made attractions too when you visit Sri Lanka. It boasts more than two thousand years of recorded history, and the remarkable achievements of the early Sinhalese civilization can still be seen in the ruined cities and great religious monuments that litter the northern plains.

The glories of this early Buddhist civilization continue to provide a symbol of national pride, while Sri Lanka’s historic role as the world’s oldest stronghold of Theravada Buddhism lends it a unique cultural identity. But there’s more to Sri Lanka than just Buddhists. Its geographical position at one of the most important staging posts of Indian Ocean trade laid it open to a uniquely wide range of influences. Generations of Arab, Malay, Portuguese, Dutch and British settlers subtly transformed its culture, architecture and cuisine. Meanwhile the long-established Tamil population in the North have established a vibrant Hindu culture that owes more to India than to the Sinhalese south.

The tropical island has become more of a hot-spot to keen travellers in recent years, although tourism in Sri Lanka remains relatively low key. The country’s wonderful individuality – evident in its contrasting landscapes and its distinct culture, is helping to shape Sri Lanka as a top destination.

• Size and location : Lying a few degrees north of the Equator, Sri Lanka is slightly smaller than Ireland and a little larger than the US state of West Virginia.
• Currency : Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
• Politics : Sri Lanka achieved independence from Britain in 1948, and rejected its colonial name, Ceylon, in 1972. The country has had a functioning democracy since independence, and in 1960 elected the world’s first female prime minister.
• Religions : Sri Lanka’s population comprises different ethnic and religious groups. The two largest are the mainly Buddhist Sinhalese, and the predominantly Hindu Tamils; there are also many Christians and Muslims.
• Languages : Sinhala, Tamil and English are officially recognized languages.
• Health : Sri Lankans enjoy a healthy life expectancy of 77 years. But it also has one of the world’s highest suicide rates and one of the highest death rates from snakebite.
• Education : Sri Lanka has a literacy rate of almost 93 percent
• Exports : The country’s main exports are clothing and tea. Rubber, coconuts and precious gems are also important.

Sri Lanka has it all. Watch whales off palm-fringed beaches, track leopards in lush rainforests and hike through the hill country to verdant tea plantations. You can get an insight into the island’s culture by exploring Buddhist monuments, clambering over colonial forts and indulging in its intensely flavoured cuisine. With such a wealth of attractions, figuring out where to go in Sri Lanka can be quite a task, although its relatively small size means you can fit a lot into a single trip.

We’ve covered the length and breadth of the island to uncover the best places to go in Sri Lanka – from the popular to those off the beaten track.

West coast of Sri Lanka

All visits to Sri Lanka currently begin at the international airport just outside Colombo , the island’s capital and far and away its largest city. It’s a sprawling metropolis whose contrasting districts offer an absorbing introduction to Sri Lanka’s myriad cultures and multi-layered history.

Many visitors head straight for one of the west coast’s beaches, whose innumerable resort hotels still power the country’s tourist industry. Destinations include the package holiday resorts of Negombo and Beruwala , the more stylish Bentota , and the old hippy hangout of Hikkaduwa.

More unspoilt countryside can be found north of Colombo at the Kalpitiya peninsula and in the vast Wilpattu National Park nearby, home to leopards, elephants and sloth bears.

South coast of Sri Lanka

Beyond Hikkaduwa, the south coast is significantly less developed. Gateway to the region is the marvellous old Dutch city of Galle , Sri Lanka’s finest colonial town. Beyond lies a string of fine beaches. These include the ever-expanding village of Unawatuna and the quieter stretches of coast at Weligama , Mirissa and Tangalla, as well as the lively provincial capital of Matara , boasting further Dutch remains. East of here, Tissamaharama serves as a convenient base for the outstanding Yala and Bundala national parks, and for the fascinating temple town of Kataragama.

The hill country

Inland from Colombo rise the verdant highlands of the hill country , enveloped in the tea plantations (first introduced by the British) which still play a vital role in the island’s economy. The symbolic heart of the region is Kandy , Sri Lanka’s second city and the cultural capital of the Sinhalese. Its colourful traditions are embodied by the famous Temple of the Tooth and the magnificent Esala Perahera, Sri Lanka’s most colourful festival .

South of here, close to the highest point of the island, lies the old British town of Nuwara Eliya , centre of the country’s tea industry and a convenient base for visits to the spectacular Horton Plains National Park . A string of towns and villages – Ella , Haputale and Bandarawela – along the southern edge of the hill country offer an appealing mixture of magnificent views, wonderful walks and olde-worlde British colonial charm. Close to the hill country’s southwestern edge, the soaring summit of Adam’s Peak is another of the island’s major pilgrimage sites. The gem-mining centre of Ratnapura to the south serves as the best starting point for visits to the elephant-rich Uda Walawe National Park and the rare tropical rainforest of Sinharaja .

The Fort, Galle © Shutterstock

The Cultural Triangle

North of Kandy, the hill country tumbles down into the arid plains of the northern dry zone. This area, known as the Cultural Triangle , was the location of Sri Lanka’s first great civilization, and its extraordinary scatter of ruined palaces, temples and dagobas still give a compelling sense of this glorious past. Foremost amongst these are the fascinating ruined cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa , the marvellous cave temples of Dambulla , the hilltop shrines and dagobas of Mihintale and the extraordinary rock citadel of Sigiriya .

One of Sri Lanka’s most popular and interesting nature reserves, Minneriya National Park , also lies within the region and on the route for the hundreds of elephants that migrate between various parks each year.

The east and the north

Gateway to the east is the characterful, if war-torn, city of Trincomalee . The east’s huge swathe of pristine coastline itself remains almost completely undeveloped, save for the sleepy villages of Nilaveli and Uppuveli, just north of Trinco, and the surfing centre of Arugam Bay , at the east coast’s southern end. But the construction of a huge new resort at Passekudah is likely to change that.

If you’re looking where to visit in Sri Lanka that’s even less visited, the north is slowly emerging after years of civil war. Increasing numbers of visitors are making the long journey to the absorbing city of Jaffna , while a side-trip to remote Mannar, closer to India than Colombo, is another adventurous possibility.

National parks and reserves in Sri Lanka

Almost 15 percent of the island is made up of national parks and reserves. They cover diverse terrain, and harbour a wealth of wildlife, while many are situated in areas of outstanding beauty. Sri Lanka’s huge biodiversity is also putting the island on the map for eco-tourism with fantastic eco-lodges and hotels gradually appearing.

Sri Lanka’s top 8 national parks and reserves:

• Yala – South of the island, bordering the Indian Ocean; home to a host of wildlife, including crocodiles, elephants and the highest density of leopards in the world.
• Horton Plains – Stunning scenery of grasslands and cloud forest at a height of over 2,000 metres in the central highlands. The cliffs at World’s End plunge dramatically to the lowlands below.
• Uda Walawe – Just south of Horton Plains; elephants are the main attraction (home to around 600). Other wildlife includes buffaloes, spotted and sambhur deer, crocodiles, macaque and langur monkeys.
• Bundala – Just south of Yala and a good alternative for escaping the crowds. Doesn’t have the range of wildlife as Yala, but a delight for birdwatchers. Also home to elephants, crocodiles, turtles and other fauna.
• Minneriya – An unusually wide range of wildlife considering its size. Elephants are the main attraction (highly visible at certain times of the year during migration between various parks – numbers peak in August and September when they come to drink from the reservoir). Other wildlife includes macaque and purple-faced langur monkeys, sloth bears and notoriously hard to spot leopards – only around 20 in all.
• Kaudulla – Also part of the migration route for elephants. The best time to visit is between August and December; numbers peak in September/October (around 200 gather to drink from the lake, the Kaudulla Tank).
• Wilpattu – The largest in Sri Lanka but closed for several years during the civil war. Poaching has reduced wildlife numbers, although the situation is gradually improving. More peaceful than the more famous parks, such as Yala. Once famous for its leopards and sloth bears, but harder to spot these days.
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve – UNESCO World Heritage-listed, a pocket of undisturbed tropical rainforest, home to a fantastic array of jungle wildlife.

Blue Magpie, Sinharaja National Park © Wright Out/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Sri Lanka

• The south Travel Guide

The weather in Sri Lanka

The climate is affected by two separate monsoons, meaning you can usually dodge the rain when you travel to Sri Lanka, as it will probably be dry somewhere on the island. The east is a mirror image of the west: when the southwest (“Yala”) monsoon hits the west and southwest, from April or May to September, the sun is shining in the east and northeast and vice versa. However, the northeast (“maha”) monsoon is generally lighter. In October and November, just before the maha monsoon, there is unsettled weather across the island. This means you might get caught in a downpour or thunderstorm wherever you are.

Bear in mind that there are variations in the general weather pattern, which means no two years are likely to be quite the same. But it’s a pretty safe bet that temperatures will be more or less constant. You can rely on an average temperature of 26–30˚(often higher) on the coast and the lowlands, dropping the higher up you go. So if you’re heading to Kandy , you can expect temperatures of 18˚–22˚, but only 14-16˚ in the hill country, such as Nuwara Eliya . And temperatures in the hills can drop to almost freezing at night, so make sure you pack extra layers.

Broadly speaking, in terms of the weather, the best time to visit the west and southwest of Sri Lanka, including the hill country, is December to March. If your itinerary is geared more towards the eastern side of the island, you’ll get the best conditions from around April or May to September.

Get more information on weather in Sri Lanka , including an average temperature and rainfall chart.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

When you visit Sri Lanka chances are there will be a festival in full swing or preparations for one will be underway. With four major religions coexisting on the island, each with its own calendar of festivals, as well as many public holidays, these events can be hard to avoid. You might be planning your itinerary to avoid the biggies, that seem to bring the island to a standstill, or you might want to be in the thick of it – to experience the real essence of Sri Lanka.

Here are just three of the big festivals that take place each year, which are also public holidays:

• Sinhalese and Tamil New Year – Very much a family festival, which marks the Lunar New Year (usually in April). Businesses are closed as the island enjoys festivities, games, and traditional foods.
• Vesak Poya – An important Buddhist festival in May celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Homes hang colourful lanterns outside, and pandals (panels depicting scenes from the life of Buddha) are displayed all over Sri Lanka.
• Kandy Esala Poya Perahera – Sri Lanka’s most extravagant festival, celebrating the Buddha’s first sermon and the arrival of the Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka, lasting ten days. Kandy comes alive with colourful spectacular processions of elephants, drummers and dancers and acrobats. Dates vary according to the Lunar calendar, but usually late July or August.

Leopard at Yala National Park © Marcin Mecnarowski/Shutterstock

Unless you arrive on a cruise ship, the only way to travel to Sri Lanka is to fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (BMI) at Katunayake, just north of Colombo . The best way to bag a good deal on the cost of a flight is to book as far ahead as possible, but fares tend to be pretty constant year-round.

Travelling to Sri Lanka from Europe

SriLankan airlines offers direct flights from the UK (London Heathrow); there are also indirect flights available travelling via the Gulf and India. Likewise, if you’re travelling to Sri Lanka from Ireland you can fly indirect from Dublin to Sri Lanka via cities in the Gulf – the other option is to make your way to Heathrow for a direct flight.

Travelling to Sri Lanka from the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand

If flying to Sri Lanka from the US you’ll have to make at least one stop; if coming from the east coast there are several one-stop options from New York, Boston and Toronto via the Gulf. Routes from the west coast go via east or Southeast Asia, as well as via the Gulf.

If you are coming from Australia direct flights are only available from Melbourne, otherwise you’re looking at a one-stop option. You can also take a one-stop flight from New Zealand.

Travelling to Sri Lanka from Asia

Sri Lanka is well served by carriers operating from other countries in South and Southeast Asia. There are also direct connections to many places in the Gulf.

Get more in-depth information on flights to Sri Lanka .

Getting around Sri Lanka is, on the whole, much quicker and easier than is used to be – with the long-overdue upgrade on the Expressway and improvements on the railway.

That said, away from the motorways and main train lines the going can be slow and, if travelling by bus, rather uncomfortable.

Getting around by bus

As a rule of thumb, buses are generally faster than trains for travelling around Sri Lanka, and a cheap way to get around. It’s the main means of transport, getting into those hard to reach corners of the island, although it can be a bit of a rough ride, with drivers careering around corners and the older buses giving a bit of a bone shaking experience.

Getting around by train

Going by train is more relaxed and can be a great way to take in the landscape, especially on the intercity services on the hill-country route from Colombo to Kandy and Badulla. These have a special carriage, or observation car, with large panoramic windows offering 360-degree views.

Improvements have been made on the rail network across the island and intercity lines have comfortable air-conditioned carriages. But getting around the hill country is still painfully slow.

Getting around by plane

Domestic air services provide a superfast alternative to long journeys by road or rail and are memorable in their own right, with frequently beautiful views of the island from above.

Getting around by car

You can drive yourself, but it’s definitely not the most relaxing way to get around Sri Lanka.

Although roads are generally in reasonable condition, the myriad hazards they present – crowds of pedestrians, erratic cyclists, crazed bus drivers and suicidal dogs, to name just a few – plus the very idiosyncratic set of road rules followed by Sri Lankan drivers, makes driving a challenge in many parts of the island.

For the greatest flexibility and not a great expense you could hire a car with a driver. Bear in mind that many drivers work on commission from hotels, restaurants and the like, which means they may be quite insistent on taking you to places where they get a payoff. Going with a reputable company is best: they pay drivers a decent wage so that they’re not reliant on commission.

Getting around by rickshaw

Rickshaws are a convenient and fun way to travel short distances in Sri Lanka, although journeys can be rather hair raising, the way they dodge in and out of fast-moving traffic. Make sure you set a fare with the driver before you set off.

Read more on getting around Sri Lanka : in-depth information on flights, buses, cars and trains.

Sigiriya Rock © Ryszard Stelmachowicz/Shutterstock

This unique tract of undisturbed tropical rainforest is a botanical treasure trove of global significance, with UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Sinharaja is just how you imagine a jungle to be: intense humidity, the cacophonous sounds of animals and insects, dense foliage and huge trees.

Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s most rewarding wildlife reserve, with marvellous scenery and abundant wildlife. You’ll most likely see elephants, and chances are you’ll catch sight of a leopard, as the park claims a higher concentration of these wild cats than anywhere in the world. Other animals with the wow factor include crocodiles and macaque and langur monkeys. For birdwatchers Yala is exceptional; if you visit from October to March you’ll see thousands of birds ending their migration from the north.

Mirissa ’s picturesque harbour is the jumping-off point for exhilarating boat trips to see one of Sri Lanka’s biggest attractions: blue whales. If you go on an excursion between December to April you’ll almost certainly see one of these magnificent creatures, and you may see both sperm whales and blue whales – as well as spinner dolphins.

The old Dutch quarter of Galle is Sri Lanka’s most perfectly preserved colonial townscape. Known as the fort, its time-warped streets are lined with historic Dutch colonial villas hidden behind formidable ramparts. Enjoy the laid back ambience by taking a stroll around the atmospheric streets and walls.

The east coast’s most appealing and easy-going beach hangout is Arugam Bay . Quirky cabanas, mangrove-fringed lagoons, and world class surfing are all on offer, and it’s a great jumping off point for excursions into the stunning surrounding countryside.

The spectacular rock outcrop of Sigiriya (“Lion Rock”) was the site of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable royal capital and palace, complete with ornate water gardens, paintings of celestial nymphs and 1300-year-old graffiti. Getting to the top of the Sigiriya Rock entails a pretty stiff climb and requires a decent head for heights in places.

Colombo ’s absorbing bazaar district is stuffed full of every conceivable type of merchandise with each street concentrating on particular goods, from colourful fabrics to jewellery, mobile phones to Ayurvedic herbs. Navigating the busy streets of the Pettah can only be done slowly, and the constant hubbub of crowds and vendors, and porters bustling their way through can feel like an overstimulation of the senses. But this is all part of the unique experience – there’s nowhere else in Sri Lanka quite like it.

The enchanting series of caves at Dambulla hold a treasure trove of Sinhalese Buddhist art, with shrines, superb murals and over a hundred Buddha statues. The caves are situated within the Cultural Triangle, making an ideal visit on the way to, or from, Sigiriya.

The ascent to the top of Adam’s Peak , one of the island’s most spectacular mountains, to see the Sacred Footprint is the classic Sri Lankan pilgrimage. Buddhists believe it is the footprint of Buddha, Hindus claim it is Shiva’s, while the Muslim version says it came from Adam. Make the journey at night for a chance to see spectacular views at dawn from the top. And if you go during the pilgrimage season between December and May, the route is illuminated and little tea shops are open through the night. The climb is a strenuous one, so some refreshment may just give you the energy to make it to the top.

Jaffna is unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka. This lively town in the north offers insight into Sri Lankan Tamil culture and reveals much of its colonial and civil war past. Combine a visit with a trip to the islands off the tip of the Jaffna Peninsula. Kayts, Karaitivu, Nainativy and Delft include secluded beaches, colonial forts and remote Hindu temples.

Creating an itinerary for your visit to Sri Lanka will depend on what’s on your list for things to see and do. From relaxing beach holidays to activity-packed wildlife adventures, it’s possible to cover everything on your wishlist.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Sri Lanka, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2250 USD

Sri Lanka: Off the Beaten Track

The ideal itinerary for everyone planning to go on a Sri Lankan adventure. Hike historic temples, become part of a Sri Lankan village for a day, visit tea factories, and many more activities included before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach.

11 days  / from 3400 USD

Affordable Luxury

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage exploring stunning sunny beaches; lush green mountains; unspoilt forest trails and breath-taking world heritage sites. This all-encompassing itinerary includes accommodation, private transportation and a variety of excursions and activities.

10 days  / from 2520 USD

Discover Sri Lanka

There is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka! This 10-day trip will take you around some of the most exciting parts of the country; spot Elephants in their natural habitat, discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea plantations.

The Grand tour is ideal if you have two-three weeks to visit the main attractions, as well as some of the lesser-visited sights. Our Wildlife and nature itinerary covers some of the best natural attractions on the island. It can be squeezed into a week, although a fortnight would give you more time to explore and even give you time to visit some of the places listed in the Grand tour itinerary. The Buddhism and beaches itinerary leans away from the obvious crowd pleasers and combines religion with culture and wildlife.

Below is a suggested itinerary covering some of the best places in the south of the island – ideal for first-time travellers with just a week to ten days, to explore.

First time in the south

Days 1 - 3: Galle

All flights arrive at Colombo , the capital of Sri Lanka. We recommend you head straight to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle . The wonderfully preserved colonial town reveals Dutch and Portuguese influences from the 18th century, and provides a good dose of culture to start your trip.

Days 3 - 5: Mirissa

Once you've wandered the markets and cafes in Galle, travel to picturesque Mirissa . You can easily spend two days swimming and relaxing on the beach. Whale-watching is a highlight and considered the best spot to see whales and dolphins in Sri Lanka.

Days 5 - 7: Talalla

Talalla’s unspoiled beach is popular with surfers. If waves aren’t your thing you could take part in yoga sessions – or simply notch up some more chill out time on its creamy-coloured sands.

Days 7 - 10: Yala National Park

Go on safari in Yala National Park . The guided jeep tours give your the chance to appreciate some of Sri Lanka's most beautiful wildlife, from magnificent elephants to the more elusive leopards.

Discover our other itineraries .

Golden Temple in Dambulla © Nuwan Liyanage/Shutterstock

From family-run guesthouses to budget hotels and luxury accommodation, boutique hotels in old colonial buildings and eco lodges, when you’re looking at where to stay in Sri Lanka, you should be able to find accommodation to suit your budget.

Prices in coastal areas tend to vary according to the seasons, especially along the west coast, (usually by between 25 and 50 percent) from November 1 through to mid- or late-April.

Get further information on accommodation : types of accommodation, room rates, how to find a room, best places to stay in Sri Lanka (eco-lodges and hotels).

Travel advice for Sri Lanka

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Sri Lanka

• Crime and personal safety tips Sri Lanka
• Culture and Etiquette in Sri Lanka
• Eating and drinking in Sri Lanka
• Getting around Sri Lanka: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Sri Lanka
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Sri Lanka
• Travel Tips Sri Lanka for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Sri Lanka

We’ve put together some tips and advice for travelling to Sri Lanka.

How safe is Sri Lanka?

Following the terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka in April 2019, governments of the UK, US and Australia have downgraded their travel warnings. Tourists are no longer being advised not to travel to Sri Lanka, although the British Foreign Office warns visitors to “remain vigilant”. Many other countries have also relaxed travel restrictions to Sri Lanka. Check your government’s advice before you travel.

Other issues of safety

Taking sensible precautions against theft is always a good idea, although it’s worth mentioning that petty theft in Sri Lanka is lower than in other Asian countries as well as most European and American cities, and muggings and violence against foreigners is rare. Simple measures to protect against theft include: using safes in hotels and guesthouses for your valuables; avoiding dark beaches at night (especially women travellers). Also keep a copy of important information, such as passports and insurance details.

The most common cause of accidental death in Sri Lanka is traffic related, followed by drowning. Currents can be seriously strong, water suddenly deep, and there are no lifeguards on the beaches. Always check local advice before going into the water.

Wildlife doesn’t usually pose a great threat. However, there are crocodiles in Sri Lanka, so keep away from areas crocodile inhabited waters, and if you are bitten by a snake, seek medical help immediately. Wear sturdy footwear, socks and long trousers if walking through heavy undergrowth.

Read more on safety in Sri Lanka : swimming safety, avoiding scammers and con artists, reporting a crime, travel advisories.

Entry requirements

Unless you’re from the Maldives or Singapore you’ll need a visa (ETA) to visit Sri Lanka. You can buy a visa valid for 30 days in advance online; a 90-day visa can be obtained by post or by visiting the nearest embassy/consulate. Your passport must be valid for six months after you arrive. Always check with your local embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding entry requirements before travel. Foreign embassies and consulates are virtually all based in Colombo.

Get more information on visa requirements in Sri Lanka.

Costs and money

Sri Lanka is not as cheap as some other countries in South and Southeast Asia, but if you go for budget options with accommodation and eating out, and use buses and trains, rather than hiring a car and driver, it can still be inexpensive. If you opt for luxury accommodation and a driver for your stay it’s possible to spend around $500 a day.

Worth noting:

• Various government taxes are sometimes added on to hotel and restaurant charges so best check beforehand what’s included.
• Tourist prices apply for admission to various attractions; for example, the entrance fee to a national park or site within the Cultural Triangle may cost you around $25, but for a local it costs around 25 cents or free entry respectively.
• It’s worth bargaining for everything – from a rickshaw ride to a room in a guesthouse, as prices aren’t usually fixed, but be courteous when haggling – a few rupees here and there will make a big difference to a local living on a handful of dollars a day.
• Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka.

Read more on costs and money : daily costs, bargaining, tipping etiquette, tourist prices, etc.

Hygiene standards in Sri Lanka are reasonable, medical care is decent and Sri Lanka was officially declared free of malaria by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016 (there’s no guarantee the disease won’t reappear, so check with WHO before travel. Nevertheless, it is a tropical country with the usual tropical diseases. Make sure you have travel insurance to cover against illness or injury (as well as theft and loss).

Simple health precautions to take include:

• Be up to date with the following vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A. Other jabs you might consider are tuberculosis, meningitis and typhoid.
• Avoid drinking tap water. Although chlorinated and generally safe, unfamiliar micro-organisms can lead to upset stomachs. Also avoid ice.
• Stick to hot food that has been freshly prepared; avoid salads (likely washed in tap water) and food that has been sitting out for some time.
• If you have diarrhoea chances are it’s food or drink related and will only last a few days. Stay hydrated and take oral rehydration tablets if the problem is severe. Get medical help if you have diarrhoea that persists longer than five days, if there is blood in your stools, or you have a fever – possible symptoms of giardiasis or amoebic dysentery.
• Try to avoid being bitten by mosquitos – they can carry diseases such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis.
• Wear light-coloured clothing that covers you and sleep under a net. Repellents in spray form, mosquito coils, as well as plug-in devices, are available.

If bitten by a snake get medical attention immediately. Wear proper shoes or boots, socks and long trousers if walking through heavy undergrowth.

Read more on health in Sri Lanka : information on vaccinations, health care in Sri Lanka, water and food, diarrhoea, dysentery and giardiasis, mosquitos and tropical diseases, marine hazards, hepatitis, rabies, other diseases, dangerous animals and insects.

Idi appa (string hoppers) with egg curry © bonchan/Shutterstock

Reflecting its geographical position, local traditions combined with a colonial imprint, as well as locally grown tropical fruit and fresh seafood, cuisine in Sri Lanka is a culinary delight. Nuanced flavours are a result of a wealth of spices, featuring in everything from curries to sambols and chutneys, while coconut, in myriad forms, appears in the majority of dishes.

Seven different foods to try in Sri Lanka:

• Rice and curry The staple food in Sri Lanka, akin to the curries of South India and South Asia. Often includes “Maldive fish” (a strong-flavoured pinch of sun-dried tuna). Meat or fish curry served with dahl is standard; various side dishes include curried pineapple, curries of sweet potato, garlic, and jackfruit. Pol sambol (coconut sambol ), is a common accompaniment – a combination of onion, chilli powder, Maldive fish and salt.
• kottu rotty A classic street food ubiquitous on the island. Essentially chopped rotty , (or roti), a fine, doughy pancake, stir-fried with vegetables, meat, or egg.
• Hopper ( appa ) Small, bowl-shaped pancakes (traditionally made from a batter containing coconut milk and palm toddy), with various ingredients in the middle, such as fried egg (egg hopper). Often eaten at breakfast with dahl or curry.
• String hopper ( idi appa ), nests of steamed rice vermicelli noodles, also usually eaten at breakfast with dahl or curry.
• Pittu A combination of flour and grated coconut, steamed in a cylindrical bamboo mould – resembling coarse couscous. Can be sweet (served with ghee and sugar), or savoury, such as with mutton curry.
• Lamprais Rice baked in a plantain leaf; accompaniments include chicken or a boiled egg, plus some veg and pickle.
• Vadai ( wadai ) A popular street food of spicy doughnut of deep-fried lentils. A familiar sound is the hawker’s cry of “ vadai-vadai-vadai !”, on trains and buses.

Read more on food in Sri Lanka including: where to eat, costs and tipping, specialities, seafood, desserts and sweets.

Water, soft drinks, tea and coffee

It’s best to avoid tap water. The usual soft drinks are available, such as Coca-Cola and the like; firm favourites are locally produced ginger beer and cream soda, and coconut water is widely available.

Coffee has always played second fiddle to tea, although most tea served in Sri Lanka is surprisingly bland, considering it’s the national drink.

Alcoholic drinks

Lager and arrack are the island’s staple forms of alcohol, Lion Lager being the most common brand. Arrack has a very high alcohol content and is produced by distilling toddy, a drink made by fermenting the sap from the flower of the coconut – sold informally in villages around the country.

Read more about drinking in Sri Lanka : soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, tea, coffee, buying drinks, where to drink.

Traditional stilt fishing near Galle © Jaromir Chalabala/Shutterstock

Although Sri Lanka has a history of fine craftsmanship you’ll find much of the arts and crafts on offer is just mass produced and shoddily made. However, there are exceptions, especially in Colombo, where you can find quality goods – from books to tea and clothing. The general rule of thumb is the more informal the retail outlet the more scope there is for haggling. So you’ll likely get a greater bargain with a hawker on the beach, than an established shop, although asking if there’s a “special price” might get you a better price. Note that buying coral or any other marine product is illegal (it contributes directly to the destruction of the island’s fragile ocean environment). Also, you’ll need a licence to export antiques (anything over fifty years old).Here are some of the traditional crafts and other items you’ll find in Sri Lanka.

• Painted masks Originally designed to be worn during kolam dances or exorcism ceremonies, and on sale wherever there are tourists. The centre of mask production is Ambalangoda – a number of large shops sell a wide range of designs, some of heirloom quality.
• Elephant carvings Ranging from small wooden creatures to the elegant stone carvings sold at places like Paradise Road in Colombo.
• Batiks Introduced by the Dutch from Indonesia; widespread in Sri Lanka.
• Gems and jewellery Uncut gems are available in the gem-mining centre of Ratnapura, but watch out for fakes. Gem and jewellery shops are widespread – the main concentrations are in Negombo, Galle and Colombo, including large chains, such as Zam Gems or Sifani. For silver and gold jewellery try Sea Street in Colombo’s Pettah District.
• Metalwork Long been produced in the Kandy area, although intricately embossed metal objects such as dishes, trays, candlesticks and other objects can be found throughout Sri Lanka.
• Leatherwork Good quality hats, boots, bags, etc.
• Lacquerware Speciality of the Matale region.
• Carrom boards A kind of hybrid of pool, marbles and draughts (checkers) played throughout Sri Lanka.
• Wooden models of tuktuks Most commonly found in Negombo, but also available in Colombo and elsewhere.
• Lace Galle is the centre of lacework
• Buddha figurines Wood or stone Buddha carvings of varying standards are common.

The best (and cheapest) place to buy tea is in a local supermarket; Cargills supermarkets have a good selection, including unblended single-estate teas. The specialist Mlesna tea shop chain has branches in Colombo, Kandy, Bandarawela and at the airport, although they concentrate on more touristy offerings including boxed tea sets, flavoured teas and the like.

Top image: Golden Buddha Statue. UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Sri Lanka © Lyubov Timofeyeva/Shutterstock

No animal is as closely identified with Sri Lanka as the elephant – and few other countries offer such a wide range of opportunities to see them both in captivity and in the wild. The kings of Anuradhapura used them to pound down the foundations of their city’s huge religious monuments, while the rulers of Kandy employed them to execute prisoners by trampling them to death. During the Dutch era they helped tow barges and move heavy artillery, and under the British they were set to clearing land for tea plantations – even today, trained elephants are used to move heavy objects in places inaccessible to machinery. Elephants also play an integral role in many of the island’s religious festivals, and remain revered creatures – killing an elephant was formerly a capital offence, while the death of the great Maligawa Tusker Raja in 1998 prompted the government to declare a national day of mourning.

Buddhism runs deep in Sri Lanka. The island was one of the first places to convert to the religion, in 247 BC, and has remained unswervingly faithful in the two thousand years since. As such, Sri Lanka is often claimed to be the world’s oldest Buddhist country, and Buddhism continues to permeate the practical life and spiritual beliefs of the majority of the island’s Sinhalese population.

Buddhist temples can be found everywhere, often decorated with superb shrines, statues and murals, while the sight of Sri Lanka’s orange-robed monks is one of the island’s enduring visual images. Buddhist places of pilgrimage – the Temple of the Tooth at Kandy, the revered “footprint” of the Buddha at Adam’s Peak, and the Sri Maha Bodhi at Anuradhapura – also play a vital role in sustaining the faith, while the national calendar is punctuated with religious holidays and festivals ranging from the monthly full-moon poya days through to more elaborate annual celebrations, often taking the form of enormous processions (peraheras), during which locals parade through the streets.

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Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.

Best Time to Visit

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Polonnaruwa

Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…

Uda Walawe National Park

With herds of elephants, wild buffalos, sambars and spotted deer, and giant squirrels, this Sri Lankan national park is one of the nation's finest. In…

Kumana National Park

This 357-sq-km park, once known as Yala East, is much less frequently visited than its busy neighbour, Yala National Park. Consequently, it's a far less…

Jaffna Fort

Long the gatehouse of the city, the vast Jaffna fort, overlooking the Jaffna lagoon, has been fought over for centuries. Today you can wander its walls,…

Dutch Hospital

This terracotta-tiled, Dutch-era structure dates back to the early 1600s. Beautifully restored, it's now home to trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. In…

National Museum

Offering a captivating walk through Sri Lankan history, this delightful Colombo museum sprawls across a gleaming white, neo-Baroque building constructed…

Arugam Bay Beach

This long crescent of sand, partially shaded by coconut palms, is as good a reason as any to visit Arugam Bay. In season, its appeal to surfers is obvious…

Mirissa Beach

A vision of tropical bliss, Mirissa Beach boasts powdery pale sand, while its azure water is framed by an arc of coconut palms. The west side is the…

Top picks from our travel experts

18 of the best things to do in sri lanka.

Church Street Social

A classy retreat from Galle's steamy streets, this refined air-conditioned hotel restaurant is the perfect setting for a great meal, with the formality of…

Polonnaruwa Ruins

For three centuries Polonnaruwa was a royal capital of both the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms. Today's archaeological park is a delight to explore, with…

Kalpitiya Beach

North of Colombo

Kalpitiya Beach at the northern end of the peninsula consists of a long spit of sand most easily reached by boat across the Kalpitiya lagoon. It's a…

Pettah Floating Market

A perfect example of how quickly Colombo is changing: what was an industrial canal has been reborn as a waterfront district with simple cafes, food…

Hotel De Pilawoos

Just known as Pilawoos, this open-fronted purveyor of short eats is renowned for what may be the best kotthu (rotti sliced up with cheese and other…

Elephant Transit Home

This complex is a halfway house for orphaned elephants. After rehabilitation, the elephants…

Pidurangula

This prominent rock about 1km north of the Sigiriya site, offers amazing views of Sigiriya from its wide summit. It's a 20-minute hike up to the top, past…

Koggala Lake

Next to the road, Koggala Lake is alive with birdlife and dotted with islands, one of which features a Buddhist temple that attracts many visitors on poya…

A short stroll north of the Royal Palace ruins, the area known as the Quadrangle is literally that – a compact group of ruins in a raised-up area bounded…

Hotel Renuka & Renuka City Hotel

The well-run Renuka is bifurcated into two different buildings. Its 99 rooms are well maintained and have safes, fridges and 24-hour room service. It's…

Lankatilaka

One of the most evocative structures in Polonnaruwa, the Lankatilaka temple was built by Parakramabahu I and later restored by Vijayabahu IV. This massive…

Rising dramatically from the central plains, the enigmatic rocky outcrop of Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka's single most dramatic sight. A set of near…

Stick No Bills

Super-stylish reproduction posters (Rs 3000) and postcards (Rs 350) covering Sri Lanka through the decades. Many of the beautiful vintage airline images…

Kaudulla National Park

The Ancient Cities

Like Minneriya, Kaudulla offers a good chance of getting up close and personal with elephants. In October, there are up to 250 elephants in the park,…

Wilpattu National Park

At 1317 sq km, Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest national park. Hidden in the dense, dry woodland, you'll (hopefully) find an array of wildlife that…

Minneriya National Park

This national park is one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers. Dominated by the ancient…

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Sri Lanka and beyond

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: a 3-week travel itinerary

Sri Lanka has to be one of the greatest travel destinations of all time, a beautiful tropical island in the middle of the warm Indian ocean waters. Three weeks is an ideal length for a Sri Lanka route, as you cross through the jungle, mountains, tea plantations, and paradise coastline. Start in big metropolitan cities and end your time relaxing on beautiful beaches with a coconut in hand. Everything you could possibly dream of is in this beautiful country with the perfect Sri Lanka route. 

Sri Lanka Route Guide

This 3-week itinerary through Sri Lanka is a day-by-day Sri Lanka route. The island is easy to travel through and can be done by bus, tuk-tuk, motorbike, taxi, or private driver. One of the more popular options is to travel by traditional Sri Lankan train , gaining a wonderful insight into Sri Lankan culture as you fly through beautiful landscapes. 

Use this 3-week route to cover the top things to do in Sri Lanka, and if you have more time, we’ve added some additional options. 

Day 1 – 2: Relaxing in Negombo or Colombo

Start your trip in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. Here you’ll discover a unique mixture of modern and traditional, where towering skyscrapers and luxurious rooftop bars sit next to stunning mosques, traditional houses, and bustling street markets.

After a busy day of sightseeing, head to one of the beautiful parks to relax and see unique tropical plants, trees, and flowers. Alternatively, take a wander down to the city beach, where you can watch locals flying their kites in the coastal breeze or cheering as they score points playing cricket. 

However, Colombo is not the closest city to the airport. For more convenience, head to Negombo, a laid-back town that’s right next to the airport.

Where to Stay in Negombo

Negombo is a great place to stay for cheaper accommodation with swimming pools where you can relax and unwind after the flight.

Hotels in Negombo 😴

The beaches are also far more picturesque in this city, so if you’re looking to enjoy coastal relaxation, it’s a better choice to begin your trip.

Day 3: Sightseeing in Kandy

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city and one of the most beautiful you’ll find in all of Sri Lanka . Discover the old colonial buildings that line the edges of a vast lake in the center, keeping an eye out for exciting wildlife and unique plants. Plus, the buzzing streets filled with coconut sellers and stalls are just a stone’s throw away from this fantastic nature. 

To get from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy you have three options, the bus, train, or a taxi. Looking for a Sri Lankan driver? Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) .

Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a fantastic tranquil wilderness in the city full of a diverse range of plants, trees, and flowers. As you look around, you’ll notice that the mountains and tropical rainforests are never far away! It’s this proximity that makes Kandy a great jumping-off point for day trips.

Read : 9 Things to do in Kandy

Where to Stay in Kandy

Kandy offers a good selection of affordable hostels and hotels to suit every kind of traveler.

Hostels in Kandy 😴

We recommend staying in the city center to explore everything easily. Alternatively, choose to stay up in the hills for ultimate tranquility.

Day 4: Sigiriya

Lion Rock in Sigiriya is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The enormous natural formation sticks out of the flat landscape, towering above forests and grasslands filled with elephants. On top of the 200-meter square-shaped rock, you’ll find the remains of an ancient palace and gardens and many rock drawings along the way. Additionally, Lion Rock is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, which is another reason to add it to your Sri Lanka route!

Alternatively, visit Pidurangula Rock , Lion Rock’s nearby little sibling. This rock may be smaller, but it provides a better view as it looks directly onto Lion Rock. There’s also a cheaper entrance fee too! 

If you have time to stay a few nights in Sigiriya, we recommend relaxing in one of the many beautiful hotels in nature, hiking the rocks, or going on an elephant safari in the flat valley. To get there, hire a driver or look for a shuttle bus (a 3-hour drive from Kandy).

Read: Climb the World-Famous Sigiriya Lion Rock

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

Most of the accommodation in Sigiriya is a bit higher in price. However, it does allow you to enjoy and make the most of the incredible scenery in this area.

Hotels in Sigiriya 😴

Tip: Some hotels even have direct views from the rooms of the rocks themselves!

Day 5: Kandy to Ella Train Ride

Head back to Kandy to catch the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka . This long train ride is one of the top things to do on any Sri Lanka route, taking you through stunning rolling hilltops, rainforest, and luscious green tea plantations. Hang out the door with the wind in your hair and feel the weather get cooler as you move higher up into the mist and the clouds of the Sri Lanka highlands. Get Kandy Train Tickets here .

Read: Kandy to Ella Train

Day 6 – 7: Nuwara Eliya

The train from Kandy goes all the way to Ella , making a few stops on the way. Get off a little earlier and spend a night in the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya, an area famous for tea plantations.

Here are all your hotel options in Nuwara Eliya.

It’s especially well known as being home to the Lipton plantation, one of the world’s most famous tea growers and exporters! In fact, the history of colonization here by the English has even affected the architecture, with lots of English-style bungalows dotted through the fields, giving Nuwara Eliya the nickname ‘Little England’.

Read: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Day 8 – 10: Ella

Visit one of the most blissful and natural places in Sri Lanka : Ella. The small town has a laid-back hippy vibe, complemented by the great mountains and hills that tower over the town. Stay in a hilltop guesthouse with incredible views, and use it as a base to climb to Adams Peak, Ella Rock, or the mesmerizing Nine Arch Bridge . When you’re done hiking, head for one of the many picturesque waterfall pools for a refreshing dip.

Ella is one of the most beautiful places in the country and an absolute must-do in Sri Lanka !

Read: Best Things To Do in Ella, Sri Lanka

Where to Stay in Ella

Ella is full of fantastic accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts with swimming pools and beautiful views.

Hotels in Ella 😴

It can be fun to stay in the hillside guesthouses outside of town, where you’ll have great views and easy access to hiking trails.

Day 11 – 13: Arugam Bay

Ready to catch some waves? Arugam Bay is the most famous surfing spot in Sri Lanka . It’s so popular that many surfers make this their home between April and October when the days are sunny and warm, and the waves are great. It’s easy to see why people spend so much time here, with the relaxed way of life, living in a wooden beach hut, surfing, and sunbathing by day, and enjoying all the fantastic bars and restaurants by night. This is where you’ll truly find hammock-swinging and coconut-sipping vibes! 

Read: Things To Do in Arugam Bay

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is all about the beach! As such, most of the accommodations are located along the coastline. Choose from charming beach huts, mid-range guesthouses, or upscale beach resorts.

Hotels in Arugam Bay 😴

Day 14: Go on Safari in Sri Lanka

From Arugam Bay, it’s super easy to take a day trip to Yala National Park for a safari amongst nature. You might even be lucky enough to spot the elusive leopard!

See availability for a safari tour to Yala

Join a tour, jump in a jeep, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. As you cross over bumpy dirt roads, around lakes, and through bushland, you’ll see vast groups of wild elephants and other animals. There are plenty of national parks to choose from in Sri Lanka , some of the most popular being Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park . 

Read : Best national parks in Sri Lanka

Day 15 – 16: Mirissa

Head south to the paradise beach town of Mirissa. Take off your shoes and say goodbye to regular life as you slow down and feel the sand between your toes and the waves against your feet. Mirissa isn’t just about the beach, though; there are beautiful coconut tree forests to explore, fascinating tidal islands, and endless great restaurants.

Read: Best Things to do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see Whales, which migrate here between November and March. You’ll find the most spectacular sunsets in this part of the country, a winning combination with a sunset whale-watching trip.

Tip: Are you someone always looking for a secret beach? Find your perfect beach on the list of 10 x Best Beaches in Sri Lanka .

Where to Stay in Mirissa

Mirissa is relatively small, so most guesthouses and hotels will be within walking distance of the beach.

Hotels in Mirissa 😴

As with most areas in Sri Lanka , prices are low for accommodation, and you can find beautiful beachside hotels, with views of the ocean, for a lot less than you might expect!

Day 17 – 19: Unawatuna

The Unawatuna area has the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka , known for the white sand, great surfing, lively beach bars, and Instagram-famous palm-tree swings. The town is small, but it has excellent shopping, guesthouses, and trendy restaurants.

It’s also a great jumping-off point to local sights nearby, like Galle Fort , Koggala Lake, or even the bright lights of Colombo! You could quickly lose track of time in this beautiful little beach town, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of your Sri Lanka route.

Read: Awesome Things To Do in Unawatuna

Where to Stay in Unawatuna

Unawatuna is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the country. Because of this, expect to pay slightly higher prices for hotels and guesthouses.

Hotels in Sri Lanka 😴

Tip: Hotel Tri is a beautiful hideaway near Unawatuna around Kogalla Lake. The sunrise and sunsets here are one of a kind overlooking the lake and cinnamon plantations.

Day 20+21: Back to Colombo

Finish your trip and stay close to the airport in Colombo.

Here are all your hotel options in Negombo.

If you have a little extra time before your flight, visit Barefoot Handicraft and its fantastic restaurant or tick off some of the sights you may have missed at the beginning of your trip.

Optional Places

Sri Lanka is an absolute heart-stealer, and the likelihood is that you may want to stay for longer than three weeks. If you’re extending your route, there are many more amazing places to visit, especially in the northern part of Sri Lanka (where you’ll find some real hidden gems!). Some of the most popular places to visit on a Sri Lanka route are:

• Trincomalee
• Polonnaruwa

How to Visit Sri Lanka

International flights arrive at Colombo airport (actually closer to Negombo than Colombo).

From here, it’s straightforward to take public transport to your next destination or arrange for a driver to collect you. 

Getting Around in Sri Lanka

Hiring a driver in Sri Lanka is a very popular choice as it’s so reasonably priced. To do so will usually cost about $50 per day, which allows you a lot more flexibility with your itinerary. It also helps you get to the more remote places, which otherwise might be quite tricky. 

We recommend to rent a car in Sri Lanka through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) . Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price possible. 

Buses are a very cheap option; it’s just a few dollars for a full day of traveling by bus! Be aware that buses are usually packed full of people, and you will have to stand. Don’t expect air conditioning, but you’ll have the perks of enjoying local TV with Sri Lankan music videos! 

Purchase any transport tickets online here

Taking the train is a must-do in Sri Lanka . The country is home to some of the most beautiful train rides globally and has become renowned worldwide for the experience of hanging out the train door as tea plantations and rolling hills fly by. 

The price for a second-class cabin varies from $1.50 to $4. Sometimes they run out of seats, meaning you have to stand or sit on the floor. But do as the locals do and enjoy this beautiful experience!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. There isn’t a perfect period to visit because each side of the island has its own “best time to visit.” which means the sun will always be shining somewhere! ☀️

The dry seasons by month and destination are:

• North – May to September
• Center  – January to April
• South  – December – March

If you choose to visit these areas in the rainy season, you can still have a really enjoyable time. Prices will be lower, there will be fewer people, and nature will be particularly luscious. However, be aware that the rains can bring rough waves to the coast, causing the beaches to get pretty dirty and unusable at this time.

Sri Lanka Visa

You need a Sri Lanka visa to be allowed into the country. Luckily, arranging a visa isn’t difficult at all. All you need to do is make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. You can select several options for your visa for Sri Lanka , depending on how long you are planning to stay and for what reason you are visiting the country.

Online Visa, Sri Lanka

The first option is to apply for your Sri Lanka visa online . It’s wise to apply at least a few days before your arrival. Usually, the applications are approved within a few hours, and you will receive your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). The 30-day tourist visa will cost you $35.

Order online: Get your visa easily here!

Visa on Arrival

Even if you have not applied for ETA can get a Visa on Arrival on arrival for Sri Lanka . There is a counter at the airport in Colombo where you can go. However, you will pay $5 extra, and there are generally long queues. For this reason, we recommend applying for your visa online ahead of time.

How Much Does Sri Lanka Cost?

In Sri Lanka , payment is made in the Sri Lankan Rupee (not the same as the Indian Rupee). Currently, $1 is equal to 2 Sri Lanka Rupees. Generally, Sri Lanka is a cheap place to travel in, especially in the more remote locations like the North or the center.

A variety of accommodations is on offer, from budget guesthouses to the more luxurious beachside hotels. Plus, wherever you go, you can always find cheap and delicious food, either sold on the street or in small restaurants (a bowl of local rice and curry typically costs about $1-3 USD!).

Costs of Traveling in Sri Lanka

Travel on a budget in Sri Lanka, from $190 − $410 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $960 USD, and high-end from $920 − $1250 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $80 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $2 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Vaccinations Sri Lanka

Whatever the length of your trip is, it’s recommended to get two vaccines:

• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio)
• Hepatitis A

Staying away for several months? Then you probably should get vaccinations against Hepatitis B and rabies. There is no Malaria risk in Sri Lanka.

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The Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Published: October 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Helen Behrens

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate Sri Lanka travel guide. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this beautiful island nation is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. From ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites to pristine beaches and lush tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.

With its warm and friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, Sri Lanka has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists from around the world. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a cultural immersion, Sri Lanka has something to offer for everyone.

One of the most appealing aspects of traveling to Sri Lanka is its compact size. Despite being a relatively small country, it packs a punch with its abundance of attractions and activities. You can explore ancient ruins, trek through lush rainforests, spot wildlife, relax on sun-kissed beaches, and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine all in one trip.

As you embark on your Sri Lanka journey, this travel guide will provide you with all the essential information to make your trip unforgettable. From visa requirements to the best time to visit, from transportation options to top attractions, we’ve got you covered.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an incredible adventure in the teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka. Let’s dive into the details and discover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this enchanting destination.

Visa Requirements

Before traveling to Sri Lanka, it is important to understand the visa requirements. Most visitors need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. The ETA can be obtained online through the official website or from the nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

The visa process is straightforward and can usually be completed within a few days. The cost of the ETA varies depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay. It is advisable to apply for the ETA well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

The ETA allows visitors to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days. If you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka.

It is important to note that passport validity is a crucial aspect of visa requirements. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka. Additionally, you may be required to provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a return or onward ticket.

For travelers who plan to engage in work or religious activities, it is necessary to obtain the appropriate visa type that allows such activities. It is advised to seek guidance from the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your home country to ensure you have the correct visa for your intended activities.

Lastly, it is important to abide by the laws and regulations of Sri Lanka during your visit. Any violation of the visa rules can result in fines, deportation, or legal consequences. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the do’s and don’ts of your visa to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Sri Lanka.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to experience during your trip. The island nation experiences two distinct monsoon seasons, which affect different parts of the country at different times.

From December to March, the west and south coasts, as well as the Cultural Triangle region, experience the dry season. This is considered the peak tourist season as the weather is sunny with minimal rainfall. The sea is also calm, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports. However, this is also the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

From May to September, the east coast and the north-central regions of Sri Lanka bask in dry weather, while the rest of the country experiences the southwest monsoon. The east coast is known for its pristine beaches, and this is an excellent time to explore them. The weather is hot and ideal for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

If you are a wildlife enthusiast or plan to visit the hill country, the period from July to September is ideal as the weather is cooler and perfect for exploring national parks and tea plantations.

For those seeking to avoid crowds and find better deals, the shoulder seasons of April and November are great options. During these months, you can enjoy relatively good weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for budget travelers.

It is important to note that Sri Lanka is a tropical country, and sudden rain showers can occur at any time of the year. It is always a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella regardless of the season.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Whether you choose to visit during the dry season or the monsoon season, Sri Lanka offers a wealth of beauty and experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

Getting to Sri Lanka

Getting to Sri Lanka is relatively easy with its well-connected international airports and seaports. The main international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), located in Katunayake, about 35 kilometers north of Colombo, the capital city.

Many major airlines operate direct flights to Sri Lanka from various destinations around the world. There are also several connecting flights available, making it convenient to reach Sri Lanka from almost anywhere.

Once you arrive at BIA, you can easily access Colombo and other parts of the country via taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport. The journey from the airport to Colombo takes approximately an hour, depending on traffic.

If you are traveling to Sri Lanka by sea, the country has several ports that cater to international cruise ships and cargo vessels. The main port is the Colombo Port, which is one of the largest in South Asia.

For travelers coming from neighboring countries, such as India or Maldives, there are ferry services available as well. These services operate between Sri Lanka and select ports in India and the Maldives, providing an alternative and scenic way to reach the island.

Once you are in Sri Lanka, domestic air travel is a convenient option for exploring different parts of the country quickly. Domestic airports are located in cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Jaffna, and there are several domestic airlines offering regular flights.

If you prefer overland travel, Sri Lanka has a well-developed road network, making it possible to reach various towns and cities by bus or private car. There are also train services available, which offer a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between major destinations.

When planning your trip to Sri Lanka, it is advisable to check the latest travel advisories and make arrangements in advance to secure your preferred mode of transportation. With multiple options available, getting to and around Sri Lanka is convenient and adds to the overall experience of exploring this beautiful island nation.

Transportation within Sri Lanka

Getting around Sri Lanka is relatively easy, thanks to its well-established transportation network. Whether you prefer to travel by road, rail, or air, there are various options available to suit your needs and preferences.

One of the most popular modes of transportation for both locals and tourists is the extensive bus network. Buses connect almost every corner of the country, making it a convenient and affordable way to travel between cities and towns. There are different types of buses available, ranging from express buses to luxury air-conditioned coaches.

Sri Lanka also has an extensive train network that offers stunning views of the countryside. The train rides in Sri Lanka are not just a means of transportation but also a scenic experience. The journey from Kandy to Ella, for example, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, tea plantations, and mountain vistas.

If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, domestic flights are available between major cities. Sri Lanka has several domestic airports, and local airlines operate regular flights to various destinations. This is a convenient option for those who want to save time and skip long road or train journeys.

For shorter distances and exploring local attractions, tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport. These three-wheeled vehicles are easily available in cities and towns, and they are a fun and adventurous way to get around. Negotiating the fare beforehand is advised to avoid any misunderstandings.

If you prefer more flexibility and convenience, renting a car with a driver is also an option. This allows you to navigate the country at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. However, it is important to note that driving in Sri Lanka requires caution and familiarity with local road conditions and traffic rules.

When traveling to remote areas or national parks, safari jeeps are commonly used to navigate the rugged terrain and spot wildlife. These can be hired through tour operators or at the park entrance.

Overall, transportation within Sri Lanka is well-organized and offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you choose the bus, train, plane, tuk-tuk, or hire a car, getting around Sri Lanka is part of the adventure and allows you to explore the country at your own pace.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodation in Sri Lanka, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, the country offers a diverse range of choices that cater to different travelers.

If you’re looking for ultimate comfort and indulgence, Sri Lanka is home to a number of luxury resorts and boutique hotels. These properties offer world-class amenities, stunning settings, and exceptional service. Whether nestled along pristine beaches, amidst lush tea plantations, or in the heart of ancient cities, these accommodations provide a lavish retreat for relaxation and pampering.

For those seeking a more authentic experience, Sri Lanka’s heritage homes, known as “boutique villas,” offer a unique stay. These beautifully restored ancestral houses provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and history while enjoying modern comforts.

For budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of guesthouses and budget hotels available throughout the country. These accommodations offer affordable options without compromising on comfort and cleanliness. They are ideal for those who prefer a more local and intimate experience.

In popular tourist destinations, you’ll also find a range of mid-range hotels and resorts that strike a balance between comfort and affordability. These properties offer quality accommodation, convenient locations, and a range of facilities to ensure a pleasant stay.

In recent years, Sri Lanka has seen a rise in eco-lodges and sustainable accommodation options. These properties focus on minimizing their environmental impact and offer an eco-friendly and responsible way to stay. Staying in an eco-lodge allows you to connect with nature while contributing to the conservation efforts of the country.

Another popular accommodation option in Sri Lanka is homestays, where you can stay with a local family and experience their way of life firsthand. This provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture, traditions, and cuisine while enjoying the warm hospitality of a Sri Lankan home.

When planning your accommodation in Sri Lanka, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Research different areas and read reviews to find the best accommodation option that suits your needs and preferences.

Overall, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget, boutique, or eco-friendly stays, you’ll find the perfect place to rest and recharge during your Sri Lankan adventure.

Top Attractions in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of incredible attractions, ranging from ancient historical sites to stunning natural wonders. Here are some of the top attractions that you should not miss during your visit to this beautiful island:

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Rising majestically from the jungle, Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction. Climb to the top of the rock and marvel at the ancient ruins and breathtaking views.
• Golden Temple of Dambulla: This ancient temple complex is renowned for its stunning cave temples adorned with intricately painted frescoes and a vast collection of Buddha statues.
• Ancient City of Polonnaruwa: Explore the well-preserved ruins of the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa, including the Royal Palace, sacred temples, and colossal stone statues.
• Temple of the Tooth, Kandy: Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, believed to house the relic of the tooth of Lord Buddha. Experience the rich cultural heritage and witness traditional rituals and performances.
• Galle Fort: Step back in time as you wander through the narrow streets of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Admire the Dutch colonial architecture, visit the lighthouse, and browse through charming boutiques and art galleries.
• Yala National Park: Embark on a wildlife safari in Yala National Park, where you can spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. It is renowned for having the highest leopard density in the world.
• Nuwara Eliya: Known as “Little England,” this picturesque hill station offers stunning landscapes of tea plantations, waterfalls, and lush hills. Visit a tea factory, enjoy a scenic train ride, and immerse yourself in the cool climate of this charming town.
• Adam’s Peak: Take on the challenge of climbing Adam’s Peak, a sacred pilgrimage site for multiple religions. Witness the sunrise from the top and marvel at the panoramic views.
• Mirissa Beach: Relax on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach and enjoy the serene atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour and spot dolphins and whales swimming in the ocean.
• Ella Rock: Hike to the top of Ella Rock and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations, valleys, and waterfalls. The journey itself is a scenic adventure.

These are just a few highlights of the many attractions that Sri Lanka has to offer. The country’s rich history, diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a truly unforgettable destination to explore.

Cultural Experiences

Immersing yourself in the cultural fabric of Sri Lanka is an essential part of any visit to this enchanting island. From ancient temples and religious ceremonies to traditional arts and crafts, here are some cultural experiences that will offer you a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka:

• Visit Sacred Temples: Sri Lanka is home to numerous sacred temples, each with its own unique architectural and cultural significance. Explore iconic temples such as the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, and Sri Dalada Maligawa in Anuradhapura.
• Participate in a Puja Ceremony: Witness or take part in a traditional puja (religious ceremony) at a temple to experience the rhythmic chants, the scent of incense, and the mesmerizing rituals performed by devotees.
• Explore Ancient Ruins: Discover the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, and explore the ruins of ancient civilizations. Marvel at the monumental stupas, intricate carvings, and ancient monasteries that provide a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
• Attend a Cultural Show: Enjoy a vibrant cultural show featuring traditional dance performances, fire walking, and traditional music. These shows are a fantastic opportunity to witness the rhythmic movements and colorful costumes that showcase the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
• Try Sri Lankan Cuisine: Sample the diverse flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, which is influenced by various cultures. Indulge in traditional dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and seafood delicacies. Don’t forget to try the mouthwatering variety of tropical fruits.
• Visit Village Communities: Take a trip to a rural village and engage with the locals to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. Learn about their daily life, traditions, and customs, and perhaps even participate in activities such as cooking traditional meals or farming.
• Explore Art and Craft Villages: Sri Lanka is renowned for its intricate handicrafts, including wood carving, batik, pottery, and handloom textiles. Visit art and craft villages, such as Ambalangoda and Kandy, to observe the skilled artisans at work and perhaps even purchase unique souvenirs to take back home.

These cultural experiences will give you a deeper appreciation for the traditions and customs that have shaped Sri Lanka’s identity. Engage with the locals, embrace their traditions, and create lasting memories as you delve into the vibrant cultural tapestry of this fascinating country.

Wildlife and Nature

Sri Lanka is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, with its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. From national parks teeming with exotic animals to pristine rainforests and breathtaking landscapes, here are some of the wildlife and nature experiences that you can enjoy in Sri Lanka:

• Yala National Park: Explore the wild wonders of Yala National Park, home to a rich variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and endemic bird species. Enjoy thrilling jeep safaris that offer a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.
• Wilpattu National Park: Known for its dense forest and natural lakes, Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Embark on a safari and encounter leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and an array of bird species in this untamed wilderness.
• Horton Plains National Park: Trek through the misty landscapes of Horton Plains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the beauty of World’s End, a sheer cliff offering breathtaking views. Keep an eye out for elusive species such as the Sri Lankan sambar deer and purple-faced langur.
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve: Explore the last remaining primary rainforest in Sri Lanka, Sinharaja Forest Reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for endemic bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of plant species. Guided walks allow you to discover its incredible biodiversity.
• Whale Watching in Mirissa: Embark on a thrilling whale watching excursion from Mirissa and witness the magnificence of the gentle giants of the ocean, such as blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins. This is an unforgettable experience that offers an up-close encounter with marine wildlife.
• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary that cares for and rehabilitates orphaned and injured elephants. Observe these gentle giants up close as they bathe in the river and enjoy feeding times.
• Minneriya National Park: Known for its “Gathering” of elephants, Minneriya National Park is a hotspot for elephant sightings. The park also offers opportunities to spot other wildlife, including sambar deer, sloth bears, and birds.

These are just a few examples of the incredible wildlife and nature experiences that Sri Lanka has to offer. The country’s commitment to conservation and its diverse range of ecosystems make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and a paradise for wildlife lovers.

Beaches and Coastal Areas

Sri Lanka is blessed with stunning beaches and picturesque coastal areas that offer tranquility, beauty, and a variety of water activities. From golden sand beaches to vibrant coral reefs, here are some of the top beach destinations to explore during your visit:

• Unawatuna: Located on the southern coast, Unawatuna is known for its crescent-shaped beach, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkeling, diving, and beachside relaxation are popular activities here.
• Mirissa: Mirissa is a laid-back coastal town famous for its pristine beaches and whale watching opportunities. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and catching spectacular sunsets on the palm-fringed shores.
• Bentota: Located on the southwest coast, Bentota offers a mix of sandy beaches and serene backwaters. It is a popular destination for water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and boat rides along the Bentota River.
• Arugam Bay: Situated on the east coast, Arugam Bay is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surf breaks. It attracts surfers from around the world and offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.
• Trincomalee: The town of Trincomalee on the east coast is home to stunning beaches and warm azure waters. Nilaveli Beach and Uppuveli Beach are popular spots for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
• Kalpitiya: Situated on the west coast, Kalpitiya is known for its pristine beaches, dunes, and lagoons. It is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like kite surfing, kayaking, and dolphin watching.
• Pasikudah: Pasikudah, located on the east coast, boasts a long stretch of shallow waters and soft white sand. It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water sports.

These are just a few examples of the beautiful beaches and coastal areas that await you in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, water sports, or simply a chance to soak in the sun, the beaches of Sri Lanka offer a perfect escape.

Adventure Activities

Sri Lanka is not only a destination for breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences but also a haven for adventure enthusiasts. From thrilling water sports to adrenaline-pumping treks, here are some of the top adventure activities you can enjoy in Sri Lanka:

• Whitewater Rafting: Experience the rush of navigating through fast-flowing rivers and challenging rapids. The Kitulgala region is known for its excellent whitewater rafting opportunities, offering an exhilarating adventure amidst stunning natural surroundings.
• Surfing: Head to the southern coast, especially places like Arugam Bay, Weligama, and Mirissa, to catch some waves. Sri Lanka offers surfing spots suitable for all skill levels, making it a popular destination for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
• Hiking and Trekking: Lace up your boots and explore the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka on foot. From the picturesque tea plantations of Ella to the challenging trails of Knuckles Mountain Range, there are plenty of options for all levels of hikers and trekkers.
• Zip-lining: Experience the thrill of flying through the treetops on a zip-line adventure. The lush forests of Kithulgala and Ella provide stunning backdrops as you zip across the canopy.
• Rock Climbing: Test your strength and agility by scaling rocky cliffs in Sri Lanka. The central region, including places like Sigiriya and Knuckles Mountain Range, offers excellent rock climbing opportunities.
• Wildlife Safaris: Embark on an exciting safari adventure in one of Sri Lanka’s national parks. With a guide, spot majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitats.
• Hot Air Ballooning: Soar above the scenic landscapes of Sri Lanka in a hot air balloon for a truly extraordinary experience. Enjoy panoramic views of lush greenery, rolling hills, and historical sites.
• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding Sri Lanka. Head to popular diving spots like Hikkaduwa, Trincomalee, and Pigeon Island, where you can explore colorful coral reefs, encounter marine life, and swim with turtles.

With its diverse landscapes and thrilling activities, Sri Lanka offers endless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a chance to explore the natural wonders of the island, you’re sure to find an adventure that suits your taste.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping in Sri Lanka is not just about buying souvenirs; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to explore the country’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship. From traditional handicrafts to high-quality tea and gemstones, here are some shopping highlights you can indulge in during your visit:

• Handicrafts and Batik: Sri Lanka is renowned for its intricate handicrafts, including wooden masks, hand-woven textiles, and colorful batik fabrics. Visit local markets and artisan workshops to witness the craftsmen at work and purchase unique pieces as a memento of your trip.
• Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka is famous for its precious and semi-precious gemstones, especially sapphires. Explore reputable gem stores to find beautifully crafted jewelry that can make for a valuable and lasting souvenir.
• Tea and Spices: Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers globally, and you can find a vast range of high-quality teas to take back home. From aromatic Ceylon tea to herbal infusions, visit tea plantations or specialty tea shops to find the perfect blend. Don’t forget to also explore the diverse range of fragrant spices that add flavor to Sri Lankan cuisine.
• Art and Antiques: Art enthusiasts can browse through art galleries and antique shops to find exquisite artwork, traditional masks, and unique collectibles. Authentic antique pieces require proper documentation for export, so ensure compliance with customs regulations if purchasing such items.
• Handmade Jewelry and Accessories: Sri Lanka is a treasure trove for handcrafted jewelry and accessories. Explore local shops or designer boutiques to find intricate silverware, beaded jewelry, and fashionable accessories crafted by local artisans.
• Spices and Ayurvedic Products: Sri Lanka is known for its ayurvedic traditions, and you can find a wide range of herbal remedies, oils, and beauty products. Visit herbal gardens or Ayurvedic centers to purchase authentic products that promote wellness and health.

When shopping in Sri Lanka, it’s always a good idea to compare prices, check the authenticity of goods, and purchase from reputable sellers. You can also visit government-run handicraft centers and authorized stores to ensure fair trade and genuine products.

Remember to be mindful of customs regulations and restrictions regarding the export of certain items, particularly antiques and wildlife products. Familiarize yourself with the appropriate guidelines to ensure a hassle-free shopping experience.

Bringing back a piece of Sri Lanka through shopping and souvenirs allows you to cherish the memories of your trip and support the local artisans and industries that make the country’s cultural richness shine through their creations.

Food and Drinks

Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by various cultures and traditions. From aromatic spices to fresh seafood and tropical fruits, here are some must-try dishes and beverages to explore during your culinary journey in Sri Lanka:

• Rice and Curry: Rice and curry is the staple dish of Sri Lanka, consisting of a mound of fluffy rice served with an array of flavorful curries. Each curry, be it vegetable, seafood, or meat-based, is infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and curry leaves.
• Hoppers: Hoppers are a popular Sri Lankan breakfast dish made from a fermented rice flour batter. These thin, crispy pancakes with a soft center are often served with sambol (a spicy condiment) or with an egg cracked into the hoppers.
• Kottu Roti: Kottu roti is a unique Sri Lankan street food made by stir-frying a combination of chopped roti (flatbread), vegetables, meat, and spices on a hot griddle. The rhythmic chopping sound of the roti being cooked is a familiar symphony in urban areas.
• Seafood: Being an island nation, Sri Lanka boasts a bounty of fresh seafood. Indulge in succulent prawns, crabs, lobsters, and a variety of fish prepared in various delectable styles, such as grilled, curried, or butter-fried.
• Hoppers: Sri Lanka is renowned for its aromatic tea production. Visit a tea plantation in the highlands and witness the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the final infusion. Sip on a cup of hot Ceylon tea while enjoying the serenity of the tea gardens.
• Fruit Juices and King Coconuts: Sri Lanka is abundant in tropical fruits, and you have to try the refreshing fruit juices made from mango, pineapple, papaya, and watermelon. Additionally, enjoy the natural sweetness of a king coconut, a variety of coconut with a soft, jelly-like flesh and sweet water.
• Wadiya (Street Food): Sri Lanka offers a plethora of street food options to tantalize your taste buds. From piping hot samosas and vadais (deep-fried lentil fritters) to crispy roti with spicy fillings, explore the vibrant street food scene and savor the diverse flavors.
• Tropical Desserts: End your meal on a sweet note with traditional Sri Lankan desserts. Indulge in delicacies like creamy wattalappam (coconut custard), caramelized banana fritters, or refreshing curd and treacle (a sweet syrup made from the sap of the kitul palm).

Exploring the local food scene in Sri Lanka is best done by venturing into local eateries and street-side stalls, where you can savor authentic and flavorful dishes. Don’t hesitate to ask the locals for their recommendations and try the lesser-known regional specialties.

While enjoying the local cuisine, keep in mind the spice levels can be quite intense for those unaccustomed to spicy food. Feel free to request milder versions of dishes if you prefer a less spicy experience.

With its vibrant flavors and delicious aromas, Sri Lankan cuisine offers a culinary adventure that is sure to satisfy both your palate and your appetite. So, be sure to embark on a gastronomic journey and explore the diverse and mouthwatering food and drink options Sri Lanka has to offer.

Health and Safety Tips

Ensuring your health and safety during your trip to Sri Lanka is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential health and safety tips to keep in mind:

• Travel Insurance: Before traveling to Sri Lanka, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
• Health Precautions: Visit your doctor or a travel health clinic well in advance to get up-to-date on vaccinations and discuss any necessary medications, such as anti-malarial medication for certain regions.
• Water and Food Safety: Drink bottled water or boiled and filtered water to avoid waterborne diseases. Be cautious with street food; choose vendors with clean preparation areas and opt for thoroughly cooked or peeled fruits and vegetables.
• Sun Protection: Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, so protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing.
• Mosquito Protection: Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever are prevalent in Sri Lanka. Use mosquito repellents, wear long sleeves and pants, and consider staying in accommodations with mosquito nets or air conditioning.
• Safe Transportation: Choose licensed and reputable transportation providers and follow safety instructions while using public transportation. Avoid traveling at night, particularly in remote areas.
• Respecting Local Customs: Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, so dress modestly when visiting religious sites and respect local customs and traditions.
• Emergency Numbers: Save important contact numbers, such as the local emergency services (Police, Ambulance) and your embassy or consulate, in case of any emergency.
• Personal Belongings: Take precautions to secure your personal belongings, including keeping valuables in a hotel safe, using a money belt, and being cautious of your surroundings.
• Weather Conditions: Sri Lanka can experience heavy rainfall and natural disasters like floods and landslides during the monsoon seasons. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow instructions from local authorities.

It is always wise to stay updated on travel advisories and follow any specific guidelines and recommendations from your government or relevant authorities regarding travel to Sri Lanka.

By taking these health and safety precautions, you can ensure a worry-free and memorable trip to Sri Lanka, focusing on exploring the incredible sights, immersing in the culture, and creating unforgettable experiences.

Etiquette and Cultural Norms

When visiting Sri Lanka, it is important to be aware of the local etiquette and cultural norms to show respect for the country’s traditions and customs. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women.
• Remove Footwear: When entering temples, homes, and certain shops, it is customary to remove your footwear as a sign of respect. Look for cues from locals or signage indicating the expectation.
• Greet with Respect: Sri Lankans greet each other with a “Ayubowan” (May you live long) or “Vanakkam” (Hello). Use a gentle handshake or a slight bow when meeting someone for the first time.
• Use Right Hand for Gestures: Sri Lankans generally use the right hand for eating, giving and receiving items, and handshakes. Avoid using your left hand for these activities, as it is considered unclean.
• Show Courtesy to Elders: Respect for elders is highly valued in Sri Lankan culture. Use appropriate titles when addressing older individuals and offer them precedence in seating or in queues.
• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection, such as hugging and kissing, are not commonly practiced or appreciated in Sri Lankan culture. It is best to show restraint in public settings.
• Observe Religious Customs: When visiting temples, follow the guidelines provided, such as removing headwear, refraining from taking photographs where prohibited, and participating respectfully in rituals.
• Ask Permission for Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks or religious ceremonies. Some locations may have restrictions on photography, so be mindful of signage and instructions.
• Respect Buddhist Traditions: When encountering Buddhist monks, show reverence by keeping a respectful distance and refraining from physical contact. Women should avoid direct contact or giving items directly to monks.
• Be Mindful of Cultural Sensitivities: For conservative communities, it’s advisable to dress modestly and avoid displaying excessive skin in public areas to respect their cultural sensitivities.

By being aware of and adhering to these etiquette guidelines, you can show respect for the local culture and enhance your interactions with the warm and welcoming people of Sri Lanka.

Money and Currency

Understanding the local currency and the financial aspects of your trip is essential when visiting Sri Lanka. Here’s some helpful information about money and currency in the country:

• Currency: The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is denoted by the symbol “රු” or “Rs.”
• Availability of Currency: You can obtain Sri Lankan Rupees through currency exchange services at international airports, banks, and authorized money changers throughout the country. ATMs are widely available in most towns and cities.
• Credit Cards and Debit Cards: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major establishments like hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted, while American Express and Diners Club may have limited acceptance.
• ATMs and Cash Withdrawals: ATMs are the most convenient way to access cash. They are available in cities and towns across Sri Lanka. Inform your bank beforehand about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
• Tipping: While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to leave a small amount of tip for good service. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill. If not, a small tip is appreciated.
• Exchange Rates: The exchange rates may vary, so it is advisable to check the current rates before exchanging money. Banks and authorized money changers usually offer competitive rates.
• Carrying Sufficient Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or smaller establishments where card acceptance may be limited.
• Currency Exchange Receipts: Ensure that you retain currency exchange receipts to facilitate re-conversion of any unused Sri Lankan Rupees back to your home currency upon departure.
• Counterfeit Notes: Be cautious of counterfeit currency. Familiarize yourself with the security features of Sri Lankan banknotes to verify their authenticity.
• Local Expenses: Sri Lanka is generally an affordable destination, but the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation may vary depending on the region and the level of luxury you choose.

It’s always a good idea to have a mix of payment options when traveling, including cash and cards, for flexibility and convenience. Keep your money and valuables secure, and inform your bank about any travel plans to avoid any disruptions to your card usage.

By being informed about the currency and money-related aspects, you can ensure a hassle-free financial experience during your visit to Sri Lanka.

Communication and Internet Access

Staying connected and having access to communication services is important when traveling in Sri Lanka. Here’s what you need to know about communication and internet access in the country:

• Mobile Networks: Sri Lanka has several mobile network operators, including Dialog, Mobitel, and Etisalat, offering reliable coverage across the country. You can easily purchase a local SIM card at the airport or from mobile network provider outlets.
• International Roaming: If you prefer to use your existing mobile number, check with your service provider regarding international roaming facilities and associated charges before arriving in Sri Lanka. This option may be more expensive compared to purchasing a local SIM card.
• Internet Access: Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in popular tourist areas offer Wi-Fi access for guests. Some may charge for usage, while others provide it as a complimentary service. Free Wi-Fi zones are also available in certain public places.
• Internet Cafes: If you need internet access for a short duration, you can find internet cafes in major towns and cities. These cafes usually charge an hourly rate for internet usage.
• Public Telephones: Public telephones are available, and you can use prepaid calling cards to make domestic and international calls. These cards can be purchased from shops or kiosks.
• Messaging Apps: Utilizing messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype can be a convenient and cost-effective way to communicate with friends and family internationally via an active internet connection.
• Emergency Services: The emergency hotline in Sri Lanka is 119, which can be used to contact the police. For medical emergencies, dial 110 or visit the nearest hospital.

It is always recommended to have a backup communication plan through various channels, especially in case of emergencies or when traveling to more remote areas with limited network coverage.

With the availability of mobile networks and internet connectivity, staying connected and accessing information is generally hassle-free, allowing you to share your experiences and communicate with ease during your journey in Sri Lanka.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Here are some travel tips and recommendations to make your trip to Sri Lanka even more enjoyable:

• Plan in Advance: Research and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time in Sri Lanka. Understand the distances between destinations and consider the best modes of transportation.
• Check the Weather: Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with variations across regions. Check the weather conditions for the specific areas you plan to visit and pack accordingly.
• Stay Hydrated: Due to the warm climate, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
• Try Local Cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine offers a rich variety of flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes and explore different street food options to savor the authentic flavors of the country.
• Respect Nature and Wildlife: When visiting national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, follow the instructions provided by park authorities and respect the natural environment. Do not feed or disturb the wildlife in any way.
• Stay Sun Safe: Apply sunscreen regularly, wear a hat, and protect yourself from the sun to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses. Seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
• Be Mindful of Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs, traditions, and dress codes. Be mindful of religious and cultural sites, maintaining a respectful demeanor and following any guidelines provided.
• Keep Essential Items Handy: Carry a copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents. Keep emergency contact information and the address of your accommodations easily accessible.
• Stay Alert and Keep Valuables Secure: Maintain situational awareness, especially in crowded places and tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing.
• Explore Off-The-Beaten-Path: While popular tourist sites are a must-visit, consider exploring lesser-known destinations to discover hidden gems and have more authentic cultural experiences.

Remember to be open-minded, embrace the local customs, and approach your trip with a spirit of adventure. Sri Lanka offers a rich tapestry of experiences, and by following these tips, you can make the most of your journey and create unforgettable memories.

Congratulations! You are now equipped with a comprehensive guide to navigate your Sri Lanka adventure. From exploring ancient ruins and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture to indulging in delicious cuisine and embracing breathtaking natural beauty, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences.

Remember to plan your trip in advance, considering visa requirements, the best time to visit, and transportation options. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage by visiting temples, attending traditional performances, and engaging with the warm and friendly locals.

Take advantage of the stunning beaches and coastal areas for relaxation or adventure activities such as surfing, diving, or whale watching. Explore the incredible wildlife and nature through safaris, hikes, and explorations of national parks. Don’t miss the chance to shop for unique souvenirs, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant markets.

Traveling responsibly, respecting local customs and traditions, and taking necessary health and safety precautions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Stay connected with communication services and embrace the diverse culinary delights Sri Lanka has to offer.

So pack your bags with excitement and embark on a journey of a lifetime in the teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka. Discover the timeless beauty, immerse in the rich culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to make the most of your Sri Lanka travel adventure!

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Sri Lanka vacations 2024 & 2025

• Anuradhapura

The cultural triangle , neatly tended tea estates, rose-gold beaches... On a tailor-made vacation to Sri Lanka with Audley, you’ll see the highlights — and much more — your way. We’ll design your ideal trip with you, paying close attention to your interests, your travel style and your budget. Our Sri Lanka specialists know the country inside out and can lead you to experiences you won’t find in a guidebook.

Admire the cave frescoes of Dambulla and clamber to the top of Sigiriya Rock’s fortress. Join pilgrims as they stroll the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Pause at a roadside fruit stall for a fresh banana. Spot elephants, birdlife and, if you’re lucky, a leopard, in Yala National Park . Take a traditional mask-making class and compare your skills with those sold in the boutiques of Dutch-colonial Galle.

Long stretches of coastline, Colombo’s artisanal markets, a plantation-home stay… What excites you? Travel at your own pace, in your own style, with the confidence that we’ll show you the best options, wherever you go.

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Suggested tours for Sri Lanka

Soft-sand beaches, convivial culture, and wildlife-spotting opportunities: these are just some of the things we can include on your trip to Sri Lanka. We can help you explore the world-famous Cultural Triangle, or combine your time with a stay on a secluded island in the Maldives.

Sri Lanka for families

13 days from $5,330pp

On the leopard's trail in Sri Lanka

17 days from $7,120pp

Sri Lanka's temples & the Maldives

15 days from $7,900pp

Private stay on Sri Lanka's south coast

10 days from $5,600pp

Sri Lanka's south coast

9 days from $2,550pp

Sri Lanka's wildlife highlights

10 days from $4,400pp

Northern Sri Lanka tour including Jaffna

14 days from $6,350pp

Highlights of Sri Lanka

19 days from $7,635pp

Suggested activities for Sri Lanka

Take in the picturesque railway journey to Nuwara Eliya, search for leopards in Yala National Park , or marvel at the intricate costumes during a traditional Kandyan dance performance. Whatever inspires your trip to Sri Lanka, we can recommend experiences that will show you the country in a new light.

Yala National Park Jeep Safari

You can hope to see many species of birds including storks, kingfishers and peacocks. The animals residing in the park include crocodiles, elephants and buffalo.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa

You will start your day by visiting the mighty Sigiriya Rock Fortress which dominates the surrounding landscape. For many visitors, this is the most impressive site in Sri Lanka with stunning views from the top.

Tea Estate Visit

Driving through the twisting roads of the tea estate, you see the colorful women, mainly of Tamil origin, at work in the plantations.

Why travel with Audley?

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Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Sri Lanka, including information about climate, events and festivals.

Request our brochure

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Useful information for planning your vacation in Sri Lanka

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. English is widely spoken. Place names and signs are in English and Sinhala, English and Tamil, or sometimes all three.

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (Rs or LKR). ATMs are common and usually offer the best exchange rate if you choose to be charged in rupees. Credit cards are also widely accepted, but you’ll need cash to pay in smaller towns and markets.

Currency should only be changed at banks or at official money changers. Avoid uncertified money traders on the street and try to get cash in smaller denominations as change can be hard to come by. You should re-convert all remaining rupees before leaving Sri Lanka.

Hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), kottu (chopped roti with shredded vegetables, meat, and spices), and polos (green jackfruit curry) are popular Sri Lankan dishes. The translation ‘curry’ is a catch-all for a huge variety of sauces popular in Sri Lanka, some fiery, others mild and aromatic.

For example, ambul thial is a sour fish curry typical in the south, while Jaffna curries from the north are rich and robust. Vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options such as mallung, a dish prepared with grated coconut, shredded kale, red onions, and lime.

You’ll find fresh, tropical fruit in all the markets, including local treats such as wood apple smoothies.

A 10% tip in restaurants is appreciated, even if a service charge has been added to your total. Drivers, guides, and hotel porters will also expect a tip. Your specialist can advise on appropriate amounts closer to your travel dates. Tips in US dollars and British sterling are particularly welcomed.

For the latest travel advice for Sri Lanka, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the State Department website .

From spice and tea plantations to national parks thronged with elephants, historic cities, and relaxing coastal resorts, Sri Lanka offers myriad experiences in a relatively small destination. Wherever you go, you’ll find richly historic cities with streets lined with heritage architecture, ancient palaces, gilded temples, and lively markets.

Historical highlights include a sunrise visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress  and a chance to explore Sri Lankan Buddhism in the Dambulla cave temples . You could escape the heat and take the tea-plantation train  through terraced hillsides to the misty highlands, go birdwatching  in a biosphere reserve, or take a jeep safari  on the trail of leopards or elephants.

If you’d prefer something more active, you can go white-water rafting  on the Kelaniya Ganga, go whale watching  off the south coast, or hike through the moorlands  at Horton Plains. And once you’ve done the sights, golden beaches lapped by gentle seas await.

Sri Lanka offers a great range of hotels from historic city hideaways to beach villas, tea planters’ bungalows, and sleek, designer boutique hotels. You’ll find the greatest choice of places to stay in the cities and more established destinations.

In cities such as Galle, there are many historic hotels  to choose from, you’ll find indulgent boutique guesthouses  on working tea plantations, and everything from suites with private pools  and views of the jungle or to simple tented camps  in and around the national parks.

If you aim to finish your trip with some time relaxing on the beach, you can choose from luxurious resorts  or yoga and spa retreats  on the south coast. For more ideas, browse our collection of places to stay in Sri Lanka .

Some of Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations include Galle, Kandy, the Cultural Triangle, and the national parks. Most visitors arrive in Colombo , Sri Lanka’s cosmopolitan capital where neo-classical buildings butt up against glittering skyscrapers and traditional markets.

You could see the ruins of a 5th-century palace at Sigiriya , explore the botanical gardens and temples of the former capital Kandy , then make your way into the cooler hills to visit the tea plantations around Nuwara Eliya .

For wildlife, Yala National Park  offers the chance to spot the elusive leopard, while you’ll find beautiful beaches on the south coast along with the UNESCO-protected fortified city of Galle  where the narrow lanes are steeped in history.

Leopards are the big attraction in Sri Lanka, but you’ll also get the chance to spot herds of elephants, water buffalos, toque monkeys, and a vast array of birdlife. One of Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife experiences is ‘The Gathering’ at the Minneriya Tank between July and August, when hundreds of elephants congregate around the permanent water source.

Yala National Park has highest concentration of leopards in the world and is a great place to try spotting this elusive creature, but the park is also home to sloth bears and sambar deer. Elsewhere, you might spot jackals, crocodiles, or purple-faced langurs, and in Bundala National Park almost 200 bird species make their homes in the forests, lagoons, and waterways.

For more information on where to go and what you might see, take a look at our guide to Sri Lankan wildlife .

You’ll need to bring a variety of clothing to Sri Lanka. For example, light, loose, cotton clothing is good for lowland areas that are hot and humid, but you’ll need a fleece and jeans for the cooler nights in the highlands.

When visiting temples, you’ll need to dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered, and during the monsoons (October to January and May to August), a raincoat or an umbrella is a must. If you’re planning to go trekking or rafting, you’ll need good walking shoes or boots, thick socks, and clothing that covers your legs to your ankles to thwart the local leeches, which are quite common.

It takes around 19 hours to fly from the East Coast of the US to Sri Lanka, and around 22 and a half hours from the West Coast.

The time zone in Sri Lanka is UTC+5:30 hours. Daylight Savings Time isn’t observed.

The best way to get around in Sri Lanka is by car. We can arrange for a private chauffeur-guide to take you between destinations and act as your local expert while there. Along with an insight into Sri Lankan life, your guide can also give you historical context on things you see, offer suggestions on where to find authentic Sri Lankan food, and ensure you’re aware of Sri Lankan customs you should observe.

In places, Sri Lanka’s trains are also worth experiencing, such as the train between Kandy and Ella, which offers a comfortable journey through lush, terraced hills past waterfalls and tea plantations.

Your doctor is best placed to offer immunization advice for Sri Lanka. You can check suggested vaccinations on the   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website , and should also ensure you’re up to date with routine vaccinations at home.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from your arrival date in Sri Lanka and have at least one blank page.

Sri Lanka in pictures

Our expert guides to traveling in Sri Lanka

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Sri Lanka. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Sri Lanka at its best.

My travels in Kerala and Sri Lanka

Visiting Kerala and Sri Lanka, Indian Subcontinent specialist Matt captured this video footage on his trip.

Sri Lanka’s wildlife: safaris, jungles and plains

An avid wildlife enthusiast, Sri Lanka specialist Seamus explains where to spot Sri Lanka’s leopards, sloth bears and elephants. He also shares his recommended experiences away from the usual parks, such as walking through primary rainforest and taking boat rides across secluded lakes.

10 min read

Luxury Sri Lanka vacations: from colonial grandeur to palm-fringed shores

Luxury in Sri Lanka can take the form of a palatial beach-front suite, secluded colonial cottage or a safari tent. Sri Lanka specialist Sophie shares her suggestions for the most comfortable stays and exclusive experiences, including tea tasting with a master tea specialist or a chartered flight across the coastline.

What to do in Sri Lanka: our highlights guide

With impressive cultural sites, delightful beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities within its many parks, Sri Lanka offers a diverse mix of experiences, which can easily be combined in a two-week trip.

Honeymoons in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a small island, yet for its size it offers a remarkable array of attractions from ancient temples and grand colonial cities to diverse national parks and powder-soft beaches. For honeymooners, that means lots to see and do as well as plenty of time to relax between destinations.

Slow down in Sri Lanka: a leisurely tour of the north

Trips to Sri Lanka can often be rushed, but it pays to slow down the pace, says Sri Lanka specialist Chloe. On an unhurried tour of Sri Lanka’s little-visited north, there’s time to really get to know a region that, although marred with the scars of war, welcomes visitors warmly.

5 ways to try Sri Lankan food

Sri Lanka specialist Alison explains how a recent culinary tour to Sri Lanka reignited her passion for its food. She shares her most memorable food experiences, from cooking beetroot curry in a rural homestay to stripping cinnamon bark in a plantation.

Family vacations to Sri Lanka

A family vacation to Sri Lanka will get you close to wild elephants, crocodiles and possibly even the elusive leopard. Sri Lanka specialist Alison picks some of her highlights including Yala and Minneriya national parks, the cultural triangle and tea region.

Discover more about Sri Lanka on our blog

Don’t miss out: 10 travel experiences to plan ahead

What it is like to travel in 2022: five tips from our specialists

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• Sri Lanka Country Information

Sri Lanka Brochures in PDF format

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Travel Guides A-Z:

Adams Peak Travel Guide Ahangama Travel Guide Aluthgama Travel Guide Ambalangoda Travel Guide Anuradhapura Travel Guide Arugam Bay Travel Guide Balapitiya Travel Guide Bentota Travel Guide Beruwela Travel Guide Bundula Travel Guide Colombo City Travel Guide Dambulla Travel Guide Dikwella Travel Guide Ella Travel Guide Galle Travel Guide Hikkaduwa Travel Guide Horton Plains Travel Guide Induruwa Travel Guide Kalutara Travel Guide Kandy Travel Guide Maldives Travel Guide Maravila Travel Guide Matara Travel Guide Mirissa Travel Guide Negombo Travel Guide Nuwara Eliya Travel Guide Polonnaruwa Travel Guide Ratnapura Travel Guide Sigiriya Travel Guide Sinharaja Rain Forest Travel Guide Talpe Travel Guide Tangalle Travel Guide Tissahamarana Travel Guide Trincomelee Travel Guide Udawalawe Travel Guide Unawatuna Travel Guide Weligama Travel Guide

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Sri Lanka Experience

• Fully Guided
• Sightseeing

Places You’ll See

• Save Now, Travel Later with Unlimited Date Changes
• Delve into culture and explore ancient temples
• Visit picturesque tea plantations and waterfalls
• Witness great herds of elephants and crocodiles
• Relax on pristine beaches and learn to surf
• Meet the locals and teach the Buddhist Monks English
• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrive & meet the Group
• Day 2 Tuk Tuk Tour
• Day 3 Local Village & Sigiriya
• Day 4 Spice Garden & Temple of the Tooth
• Day 5 Tea Picking & Scenic Train Ride to Ella
• Day 6 Little Adam’s Peak
• Day 7 Nine Arches Bridge
• Day 8 Sunrise Safari
• Day 9 Eco Retreat
• Day 10 Learn to Surf
• Day 11 Buddhist Monastery Visit
• Day 12 Check out & onward travel

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What's Included

• Accommodation
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Operated by INTRO Travel

Since 2005, we’ve been creating life-changing travel experiences for 18-40+ year olds. Our travel experiences are designed to help you connect, explore, taste and give back to the world, all whilst making an awesome bunch of new mates along the way. Travelling with INTRO isn’t just group travel - it’s a way of meeting friends who become family and of seeing the world in a respectful, caring and totally awesome way.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.9
• Itinerary Excellent 4.9
• Guide Excellent 4.9
• Transport Excellent 4.9
• Accommodation Excellent 4.8
• Food Excellent 4.7
• Tour Operator INTRO Travel 4.8
• Most Recent
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• YS Yuliya · 11th March 2024 Love Sri Lanka. IntroTravel let me experience this beautiful country with amazing group and the tour guide. Trip date: February 2024
• JW Joseph · 25th January 2024 Amazing tour - well organised, covered loads of sights and experiences and Tom was a brilliant tour leader? Trip date: January 2024
• RH Ruby · 14th November 2023 The whole tour was organised perfectly, we experienced so much and our tour leader Shelby made everyone’s experience 10x better, we all really became a family. Couldn’t have asked for anyone better! Trip date: November 2023
• L Lucy · 14th November 2023 I had the most amazing time in Sri Lanka and whole heartedly fell in love with the country. Shelby was our tour leader and was absolutely amazing making our trip run as smoothly as possible and making it that extra bit more fun can’t thank her enough... Show more Trip date: November 2023
• J Julia · 7th November 2023 100000% recommendation for the Sri Lanka Experience! This country is so beautiful, you have to explore it ☺️ Trip date: October 2023 Review collected by INTRO Travel

• V Valerie · 24th July 2023 Just finished the 12 day Sri Lanka experience tour and had the most amazing time. The trip is a good balance between activities and some chill time to recharge. Can’t thank our group leader Tom enough for being so helpful and knowledgeable throughout... Show more Trip date: July 2023
• JC Jess · 23rd July 2023 I loved the tour, the activities were great and Tom our leader was super friendly and helpful! It felt like the perfect balance of activities and down time! Tom had lots of recommendations for food and activities if we wanted to explore. The hotels were... Show more Trip date: July 2023

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
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• Wednesday 8 May, 2024 Sunday 19 May, 2024 English €1,449 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 12 May, 2024 Thursday 23 May, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,599 Confirm Dates
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• Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,599 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Tuesday 18 Jun, 2024 Saturday 29 Jun, 2024 English €1,449 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

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Good to Know

• Currency Rs Sri Lanka Rupee Sri Lanka

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types D, M.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Sri Lanka. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Sri Lanka. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 9th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 9th June 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with INTRO Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 35 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and INTRO Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "INTRO Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of INTRO Travel. Please familiarise yourself with the INTRO Travel payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Sri Lanka Tours

Where temples, tea plantations, & thrilling adventures meet.

Legendary temple-ruins, heritage tea plantations, stunning natural beauty, and a 2,000-year-old culture—Sri Lanka is a fascinating off-the-beaten-path destination. Come here to look for wild elephants and leopards, climb up the famed rock fortress of Sigiriya, and explore Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s lovely medieval capital.

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Our Asia Specialists know every detail about our Sri Lanka Tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Sri Lanka Tours, Vacations, Trips & Travel Packages

Why travel to Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island country in the Indian Ocean, about 32 kilometres off the southeast coast of India . Its official name is the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and was formerly called Ceylon. Sri Lanka is a tropical nation and has a multi-cultural society with very hospitable people. There are eight UNESCO-protected sites, plus many ancient cities and old towns, many of which can be visited on Sri Lanka vacations. It offers a wonderful selection of pristine beaches with the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean and large national parks, plus an abundance of wildlife to satisfy animal lovers. For nature enthusiasts, there are many excellent botanical gardens.

Best time to go on a Sri Lanka Vacation

Sri Lanka is a good destination year-round. There are two monsoon seasons but neither should deter you from visiting the country. The main monsoon brings rain to the west and south-west coasts and the hill country from May to August, with the wettest time being April to June. The less severe monsoon hits the east coast from November to March with the wettest time being November and December. Perhaps the best times to visit the west and south coasts of Sri Lanka are December to March when beaches are dry and sunny. The hill country and east coast are at their best from April to September.

For more information on Sri Lanka weather, click here

What are the top cities and places to visit in Sri Lanka?

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and offers those on Sri Lanka vacations a selection of museums and art galleries to visit including the National Museum of Colombo, with its historical artifacts, and the National History Museum. Find time to go to Pettah Market for every kind of merchandise and the Zoological Gardens. One outstanding landmark is Galle Face Green Promenade, which stretches along the Indian Ocean. With Colombo’s own cultural and historic attractions in districts such as Fort, Cinnamon Gardens, and Pettah, the city is also a gateway to other parts of the country. Nuwara Eliya is a high-altitude, picturesque city featuring Sri Lanka’s most important tea production site, while Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital and home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha.

For more information on Colombo, click here

National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo which is also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum is the largest museum in Sri Lanka . It contains important collections such as the country’s regalia, including the throne and crown of the Kandyan monarchs as well as many other exhibits telling the story of ancient Sri Lanka. Some of the collections date back to 1877 when the museum first opened. These include s art carvings, swords, guns, and reproductions of English paintings from the 19th Century, plus a collection of demon masks.

For the archeologically inclined, it’s worth going to Polonnaruwa to see ruins dating back to the 10th Century, including palaces and temples.

Kandy; home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth & The Tea Museum

The small tranquil town of Kandy is well known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth which contains the tooth of Buddha smuggled into Sri Lanka by a princess in the 4th Century. The tooth itself is locked away out of sight in a gold casket stupa. While it has been housed in different buildings ever since it came to Sri Lanka in the 4th Century AD, it has been in this one since the early 1700s. As well as the main temple, the complex includes a series of smaller temples, shrines, and museums. 

The Tea Museum is also located in Kandy. Tea is Sri Lanka’s main agricultural export and Sri Lanka is the second largest exporter of tea in the world. The Ceylon Tea Museum consists of four floors. The ground floor and the second-floor exhibit very old items of machinery. The third floor is allocated to tea sales outlets, where a selection of Sri Lanka's fine tea is available. The entire top floor is a tea café with wonderful views of the town and the surrounding hills. The grounds surrounding the Tea Museum are landscaped with different varieties of teas.

A historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, Galle Fort has both Portuguese and Dutch influences. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. Some of the sites at the fort include the Old Gate with the British Coat-of-Arms, the Old Dutch Hospital, the ramparts, which offer excellent views of the Indian Ocean, a clock tower built in 1882 and a lighthouse built in 1939. Nearby is Kalutara Temple and the Peace Pagoda, both well worth a visit on your Sri Lanka vacation.

Beach Resorts 

Sri Lanka is famous for its wonderful beaches. Adding just one to your Sri Lanka vacation can be a difficult choice, but here are a few to consider:

Unawatuna is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, known for its tranquil blue waters and golden sands. It is a good place to enjoy water sports such as scuba diving and snorkelling. One pleasant pastime here is having an Ayurveda massage and being pampered at one of the spas. This beach is also famous for turtle nesting. 

Bentota Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It is also quieter than most. Again, water sports are available including water skiing and canoeing. 

Mirissa Beach is an ideal beach for swimming. The town of Mirissa is also known for its nightlife, great local seafood and range of hotels. Here, you can spot dolphins and whales. One special thing to do is to rent a boat and go fishing with the locals on the nearby coral reef. 

Dickwella Beach is the perfect place for a romantic vacation. It is the home to some upscale resorts where newly-wedded couples often come to celebrate their honeymoon. This is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka and offers the most tranquil environment. The presence of reefs, sandbars, and headlands means the waters here are calm and perfect for swimming. 

Best places to view nature and wildlife on a Sri Lanka Safari

Yala national park.

If you’ve come to Sri Lanka for nature, Yala National Park is a wonderful wildlife sanctuary, important for the preservation of wild elephants and aquatic birds. One can also see leopards, deer, wild boar, monkeys, buffalos, sloth bears, anteaters and crocodiles. There are organized safari rides to enjoy the park and the animals and you can stay at upscale tented camps. Another interesting aspect of the park is its two important pilgrimage sites. 

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage 

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established in 1975 by Sri Lanka Wildlife in order to give care and protection to the many orphaned elephants found in the jungles of Sri Lanka. A captive breeding program was started in 1982 with the aim of simulating a natural habitat for these elephants. Since the inception of the programme, over 20 elephants have been bred here. Today, there are around 100 elephants. The main attraction at the orphanage is observing the elephants bathing which is quite a spectacle. The free movement of the herd within the enclosed land of the orphanage allows the elephants the opportunity to mate.

Book your Sri Lanka tour with Goway and experience  "The Pearl of the Indian Ocean".

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “ Globetrotting with Goway ”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Consider a Sri Lanka Vacation, South Asia’s Emerging Hotspot

Sri Lanka Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Sri Lanka vacations

Learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka, the must-try food and drink , and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Sri Lanka's  nature and wildlife , weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our  globetrotting tips , as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Sri Lanka for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Sri Lanka tours today!

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Best of Sri Lanka: Dambulla, Kandy, Ella & More

FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Explore the best of Sri Lanka and visit the country’s natural and historical sites. As you traverse the island, you’ll experience the markets and bustle of Colombo, see hundreds of Buddhist temples in Polonnaruwa, ascend the rock of Sigiriya, and head on game drives in Yala National Park.

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