Whether you love to hike, or just relax by the pool – there’s something for everyone in Sri Lanka. UNESCO-listed mountain ranges offer stunning views of tea plantations.
The country is also home to wild & scenic beaches, and you can spot leopards, whales & many other species in wildlife parks such as Yala & Udawalawe.
1. Authentic Culture
Aside from the natural splendour Sri Lanka has, there is a rich culture that makes the country even more special. The locals here are incredibly friendly and welcoming to tourists, making the experience all the more unique.
They’re very proud of their country, and it shows in their culture. It’s important to respect this culture and be respectful when visiting. This means not wearing skimpy clothing, and covering up when entering temples or churches.
Also, bringing a reusable water bottle with a filter will help avoid buying plastic bottles. We recommend the Lifestraw bottle! You should also try the local food as much as possible.
2. Stunning Beaches
Bright white sand, turquoise sea and palm-lined beaches abound here. Whether you prefer a well-connected trend coast or a secluded bay, there are stunning options to choose from.
You’ll find a wide variety of accommodation to suit any budget, from luxurious beach hotels to charming colonial villas.
Several beaches feature the traditional practice of stilt fishing, where local fishermen sit high up on bamboo stilts in the water. And, of course, there’s Arugam Bay, a world-class surfing destination. It’s also a great place to spot blue whales, which can be seen off the south coast between December and April. Arugam Bay also has a rainforest reserve where you can explore mangroves and small islands.
3. World Heritage Sites
UNESCO’s 6 cultural heritage sites in Sri Lanka range from the incredible Rock Fortress of Sigiriya with its palace remains and wall paintings to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy that celebrates Buddha’s tooth relic with a massive procession every full moon. There are also countless festivals throughout the year that celebrate the country’s rich culture.
The island’s thriving biodiversity is another reason to visit: whale watching on Dondra Head or exploring the Sinharaja rainforest that’s home to a Noah’s Ark of endemic species. And there are plenty of beaches to enjoy too! Whether you prefer a quiet stroll in Galle Fort or surfing at Mirissa and Weligama.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Thrilling adventure sports are available all year round, whether you’re after water skiing or mountain climbing. Stunning beaches provide the perfect setting for relaxing beach days, and a variety of land-based activities are also on offer.
The best time to visit Srilanka for sun, sea and sand is from December to March when the southern and western coasts experience little rainfall and beautiful weather. In the hill country, the cool temperatures of this period make it ideal for hiking.
During this time, you can also discover Buddhist temples and ancient rock statues at Sigiriya, visit the sacred city of Kandy and learn about tea harvesting in the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya.
5. Delicious Food
Sri Lanka is an incredible place for foodies. Local dishes are full of spices and exotic ingredients. You’ll find curries made with fish, jackfruit, crab and even mutton. And don’t miss the chance to try gotukola sambol, a salad made from a green medicinal plant and shredded coconut.
Cooking classes are a popular activity and they’re also a great way to learn about the country’s cuisine and culture. Another must-try is kava keshi, a scrumptious semolina dessert made with coconut arrack and long green beans.
6. Affordable
There’s a large backpacker scene in Sri Lanka, with cheap food and hostels offering beds in dorms from around $9. The country is also very safe and muggings are virtually unheard of, although women should carry a scarf and be careful on beaches at night.
Visit Anuradhapura, the ancient royal capital, to explore ruins and grand dagobas. Or travel to Kandy to witness the teeming Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – a shrine that has inspired war and devotion throughout the centuries.
Summary:
Pretend you’re in jolly old England for a few days by touring neatly terraced tea estates and eating freshly baked treats in hill country villages. Or hike the Nine Arch Bridge for awe-inspiring views.
Vivan Henderson, a professional photographer born in Texas. Photography is his passion. He was fond of nature in his childhood. So he took his passion as a profession. He is basically nature photographer but also take other type of photo. He completed graduation in computer science from Texas Tech University. He lives in Houston with his wife and two children’s.
