On the tip of India lies an Island laden with ancient Buddhist ruins, mysterious tropical forests, white sandy beaches, and vibrant cities bursting with culture.
We call this pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka. Are you ready to take a trip away from the tourist throngs? To visit a country that’s starkly beautiful and full of exciting experiences?
This guide has been created to share with you the most exhilarating places to visit on this stunning island. And on your way, you’ll discover how to enjoy your two-week trip safely and respectfully; a priority when you’re venturing into the unfamiliar.
Unawatuna
If you’re desperate for a beach escape, start your trip in Sri Lanka’s southern coastal town, Unawatuna. This destination is as stunning as it is fun to say. Palm-lined beaches stretch across the coast and offer magical snorkelling experiences owing to the coral reef hidden beneath the blue waters.
You’ll want to avoid swimming during the monsoon season, though. Ferocious waves and powerful riptides occur from May to September. Like the rest of Asia, March to December is the dry season and the ideal time for water sports.
You’ll also find a plethora of restaurants, barbeques, bars, and clubs that host parties late into the night. If you choose to dance the night away, beware of carrying valuables with you, and stick with groups while walking off the beaten path (you can check with GOV UK for the latest travel alerts and safety information before your trip.)
End your stay in Unawatuna by visiting The Sea Turtle Farm and Hatchery south of the town. The establishment is caretaker to baby turtles waiting for their release back into the wild. And you can spend your afternoon with them - what a treat!
Kandy
Travel up to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, and hop on a train to one of the island’s most popular hotspots. To note: if you’re a woman, ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered while travelling through any major towns and cities to prevent cultural offense.
Kandy is a treasure trove of ancient history begging to be explored. Start your visit with a walk up to the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue (a.k.a. Big Buddha) and bask in the views of the city from dizzying heights. If you plan on taking a picture of the Buddha, make sure your back isn’t turned to the structure (this is poor custom in Sri Lanka).
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is also a must see. It’s a Buddhist temple situated in the royal palace of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Walk around these majestic temples with a guide and learn the ancient history of this site. Monkey’s also live here, so make sure you’re armed with a camera.
Kaudulla National Park
If you want to see an elephant in Sri Lanka, this is need-to-know information. Dotted across the island are so-called Elephant Orphanages where you can get up close and personal with these magnificent beasts. The sad truth is that these establishments don’t treat their elephants very well, as one blogger discovered during her trip.
But there is a fantastic alternative: see wild elephants! Kaudulla National Park, near Colombo, is a goldmine for elephant sightings (it’s possible to see up to 200!). Book a tour and traverse through the jungles and rugged plains by jeep. On your way to see the elephants, you might spot some other exotic wildlife too (monkeys are a given). This is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get very close to wild elephants and to learn about their habits, behaviour, and social bonds. It’s a magical experience you’ll cherish forever (and a nice break from walking!).
Sigiriya Rock
Scared of heights? Hornet nests? Crocodiles? Long uphill walks? If you are, I promise that the experience of climbing Sigiriya Rock is worth facing your fears for. Sigiriya, which translates to Lion Rock, is the remains of a 660 ft. high ancient fortress once selected by King Kasyapa (477 – 495 CE) for his new capital. The ruins of the palace sit on top of the rock, and you can reach the site by climbing up numerous sets of stairs and platforms.
Halfway up your trek, you’ll meet a gateway in the shape of a giant lion which leads you to the rock’s precipice. Once you make it to the top, you’ll be treated to astonishing views of the rugged farmland surrounding the area that stretches for miles. And the best part? Walking back down is a lot easier.
If You Want to Extend Your Trip …
No one would blame you. Dip a toe in the magic of Sri Lanka and by the end of your trip, you’ll be begging to see more.
In preparation for this eventuality, here’s a quick list of our other favourite Sri Lankan destinations you’d regret to miss:
- Climb Little Adam's Peak
- Discover Incredible Geologic Formations at Ella Rock
- Visit the Golden Temple in Dambulla
- Walk along the Old Town of Galle’s Fortifications
- Go Diving at Bentota Beach
- Sample Sri Lankan Tea at Handunugoda
- Do a Safari Tour at Minneriya National Park
There you have it: a guide to the most amazing experiences Sri Lanka has to offer. All that remains is to decide what to do first!
