Sri Lanka is a gem of a country that is still yet to be fully discovered by many. Nestled in the embrace of the beautiful and vast Indian Ocean, this island nation is a paradise filled with extraordinary, welcoming people. It is also a place that speaks of ancient tales, verdant landscapes, pristine beaches, and a culture rich in warmth and tradition.
Sri Lanka has everything that you could ever ask for. So, is it any wonder that you will find many Sri Lanka Tours offerings regardless of your country of residence?
However, before you go and book your flights to this mesmerizing island, you need first to be selective about what you can do in Sri Lanka. With so many options to choose from, you could spend your lifetime and still not cover what this place has to offer. So, how to get started? By reading the following guide, of course.
We have compiled a list of things that you do and sites you can see in the country. They are unmissable, especially for first-time travellers. So make sure these are on your checklist.
Imagine if you ever have the opportunity to travel to the past and look at the lives during the era of kings and civilizations. Well, now that is absolutely possible with a trip through the beautiful place that is Polonnaruwa.
Considered by historians as the heart of ancient Sri Lanka, this is the place for you to visit to get to the root of this country. As you walk its historic grounds, the ruins will paint a picture of grand ceremonies, bustling markets, and even the profound spiritual practices that are still followed by the residents of this island. You can also see the architectural prowess of the folks that lived during this period. Nearby this historic place, you can also find the Gal Vihara, which showcases the impressive Buddha statues carved right into the granite rock – another reason to start your travels here.
Another place on this list that is absolutely unmissable is the marvel of nature and human ingenuity found in Sri Lanka. We are naturally talking about the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Rising dramatically from the earth, Sigiriya is a sight to behold for every onlooker. This place became a royal residence in the early 5th century, transformed by King Kashyapa into a stronghold of beauty and defence.
The journey towards the top of the fortress can be challenging to some, but it is also a sight that is adorned with ancient frescoes – now, how can you miss that? Reaching the summit to find the ruins of a once-thriving city and the surrounding panoramic view is certainly an effort that is worth making.
Cricket Lovers are already familiar with this place. Home to Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, this city is already on the map of every cricket lover around the world. However, this city is more than that. In fact, it is more than a city; it is an experience.
Kandy is the cultural heartbeat of Sri Lanka and invites travelers from far and wide. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic sits at the center of the city. This temple houses Lord Buddha’s tooth, making it a revered pilgrimage site. Also, there is the famous Esala Perahera festival that happens in the city every year, transforming it into a spectacle of dance and music – something that you would not want to miss out on.
Wandering through Galle is like taking a leisurely stroll through history – there is no better way to describe it. The famous Galle Dutch Fort – the center of attraction of this place – is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a marvel of colonial architecture, with its ancient walls bearing tales from centuries gone by.
The place is also surrounded by boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes that bring a modern charm to this place – a stark contrast to colonial history. This creates a unique blend of the old and the new.
How can we talk about a trip to Sri Lanka and not even mention the beautiful, alluring beaches that surround this island? It is simply not possible. So, that is what we are going to focus on next.
While there are many iconic beaches on this island, two stand out – Mirissa and Unawatuna. They are quite in contrast, but together, they aptly epitomize the charm of this island nation.
Mirissa has golden beaches that stretch for miles. Its water is home to playful dolphins and even the occasional blue whale – making it heaven for marine enthusiasts. The nighttime parties at this beach are also legendary.
On the other hand, Unawatuna is home to coral reefs, teaming up with colorful marine life. It is a jungle beach that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.
When you travel to Sri Lanka, you cannot miss out on a tour of the Yala National Park. It is a blend of dense forests and open grassland – making it nature’s theatre. It also offers a complete Safari experience to travellers, something that is quite unique to this national park.
Here, you will find elephants roaming free with their calves shadowing them. Leopard longing on tree branches and peacocks singing their melodies to the wilderness are all common sightings here. No matter how many times you take a trip through here, you will always find there is more to explore.
Unlike coastal regions, central Sri Lanka is home to highlands – you can see the mist kissing the earth here. Here, Horton Plains is a sight that you cannot miss out on. This plateau covered in montane grasslands and cloud forests feels simply otherworldly.
If you are a nature enthusiast, then you will feel right at home here, finding solace in its unique flora and fauna. There is also a trek to the World’s End, a sheer cliff that has a drop of about 4,000 feet. And if you are lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of the sparkling Indian Ocean at a distance – on a clear day.
For climbing enthusiasts, Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada in the local language, presents a wonderful opportunity. It is a confluence of nature and spirituality, rising over 2,243 m. This unique aspect of this mountain beacons pilgrims and adventurers alike. After all, one can find the footprints of Lord Buddha at the summit – so is it any wonder that this peak is among the most toured places in the country?
Witnessing a sunrise here at the top of the peak will revitalize you. It is not just a visual treat for the onlookers – but a spiritual awakening.
While we have listed many of the iconic, unmissable places that you must visit on your trip to Sri Lanka, we must emphasize the importance of indulging in the local delicacy of this place. Only this way can you fully comprehend the beauty of this nation.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending herbs, spices, veggies, and fruits seamlessly. While the catch of the day often steals the show, the comforting duo of rice and spicy coconut curry remains the heart of every meal. This island’s palate isn’t just its own; it’s been seasoned by India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia over time. And since farming is in the Sri Lankan DNA, fresh veggies always grace the table, adding color and crunch to every bite.
You can always finish off your trip with a soulful Ayurvedic retreat. Sri Lanka, the radiant Pearl of the Indian Ocean, offers the perfect sanctuary for an Ayurveda Retreat. Its balmy tropical climate and kind-hearted locals form an unmatched backdrop for your retreat. And what is remarkable is that you will find such offerings in every corner of the country. It would simply be the perfect ending for your travels.
Final Words
Sri Lanka is a jewel in the Indian Ocean, with so many amazing attractions and immersive experiences that you would need more than one lifetime to cover all of them. However, we have tried here to guide you to some of the very best that this country has to offer. By no means is this a definitive guide; as we have mentioned, there are countless other places you can explore – but do look into them, as these are our recommendations. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Sri Lanka today; dive deep into its wonders and let the island’s magic wash over you.
Some Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka
Q1: What Is Very Famous In Sri Lanka?
Ans: Sri Lanka is famous for its flavorful cuisine, exotic beaches, and incredible biodiversity amongst the diverse landscape. You can enjoy your stay in Sri Lanka with many more things to do.
Q2: Do Indians Need A Visa To Visit Sri Lanka?
Ans: Indians need visas to enter Sri Lanka. Indians can avail of a visa on arrival facility to enter the country.
Q3: What Is The Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka?
Ans: The best time to visit Sri Lanka is between November and April. You can also visit Sri Lanka between February and September.
Q4: Is Sri Lanka Expensive For Indian Tourists?
Ans: Sri Lanka is not too costly. It is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a budget international beach destination.
Q5: Can You Use An Indian Debit Card In Sri Lanka?
Ans: If your bank does not charge international ATM fees like betterment checking. Most banks charge withdrawal fees. So, check the bank’s withdrawal policy.
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Sri Lanka is very well known for being one of the best and most exotic wildlife destinations in the world. Boasting a stunning landscape made up of swamps, forests, mangroves, Dry Shrubland, and grassy plains, Sri Lanka is every wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true. Although small in size, the island nation of Sri Lanka is home to about 26 different national parks making it one of the most inte...