Sri Lanka is an amazing country to visit for a holiday. It has irresistible beaches, mesmerising peaks, beautiful resorts, and incredible camping spots. Knowing what you can expect in Sri Lanka may make you crave some adventure, but going there without a good plan can make your dream vacation a nightmare. Of course, you can book a Sri Lanka Tour Package from Chennai from our website if you don’t want to stress about the details.
But if you are the type to plan every step of your vacation, then this guide is for you. Explore the land known as the Gem of The Indian Ocean with our simple guide to Sri Lanka tourism.
The first step for a great holiday is planning the perfect trip. Follow these simple steps to ensure your Sri Lanka travel plan goes perfectly.
Deciding on what kind of experience you want in Sri Lanka should always be the first step of your plan. Despite the country’s relatively small size, Sri Lanka is filled with different landscapes and experiences.
Once you’ve decided on what you want to experience in Sri Lanka, it’s time to choose where you want to experience it. Check out the best destinations that match your requirements and plan accordingly.
This can often be confused for the first step as people plan their vacations according to their available time. Sri Lanka tourism offers different experiences based on the season, so make sure that your holiday aligns with your desired experience.
Get a good idea of the exchange rates, and find a good forex partner before you leave. Always keep a good amount of local currency with you at all times, and maybe invest in a Forex card for a convenient holiday.
As of 2023, the Tourist Visa for Indians is free of cost. So that’s one thing you don’t need to worry about.
Knowing what type of experience you want in Sri Lanka is essential to plan your dream holiday. Without further ado, we’ll get right into it.
The image of Sri Lanka tourism engraved on everyone’s mind is none other than the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka. The visual stimulation of the sparkling blue ocean meeting the snow-white sands is one to remember. Relax under the sun, sipping a cool drink, or read a book with the sound of waves in the background. You can enjoy all these right in Colombo or in the numerous resorts surrounding this island nation.
Sri Lanka tourism is about more than just the beaches. Beyond the shores is a land of untapped natural beauty. Go on an exhilarating trek in Galle or spend a night camping atop the many hill stations dotted around Sri Lanka.
The culture of Sri Lanka may seem similar to us Indians, but they have a very different history that has shaped their culture. Exploring the nuances of their culture is a wonderful experience for those interested in the human side of travel. In Sri Lanka, you can experience a completely different version of the festivals you are used to, like Mahashivarathri or new ones like Duruthu Poya, which are exclusively celebrated in Sri Lanka.
The highlight of any holiday is experiencing new cultural delights. From the flavourful Lamprais you can try at the former Dutch settlements to the savoury Kiribath you will find only on special occasions, Sri Lanka promises to completely satisfy your culinary cravings, as every region has its own unique flavour.
One of the main highlights of Sri Lanka tourism is adventure sports. From hiking and bungee jumping in Kitugala to white water rafting and snorkelling in Hikkadawu, Sri Lanka is a place that caters to the adrenaline junkie inside you.
Sri Lanka has a diverse history that has left its mark on the land. Explore historic ruins and ancient temples as you travel back in time. Some of these places, like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura, are now UNESCO Heritage Sites, so time your visits accordingly.
Shopping on a holiday should be treated the same way as enjoying the weather. It’s just something you do on a holiday. The shopping district in Colombo is an ideal place to lighten your wallet a little and buy a few trinkets for yourself.
The wildlife safaris of Sri Lanka are famous all over the world, and for good reason. Get up close and personal with the unique fauna of Sri Lanka as you explore National Parks like Yala and Horton Plains with the friendliest guides.
Complete your dream vacation by going on the most iconic experience Sri Lanka Tourism has to offer, the train. Travel to all your favourite destinations while passing through scenic landscapes that will never escape your memory.
Knowing where to go in a different country can feel overwhelming. This is especially true in a country like Sri Lanka where there is no shortage of experiences to explore. From serene beaches to cool hill stations to relaxing spas to exhilarating adventure sports, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. So, let this Sri Lanka travel guide help you find the perfect places for you to visit on your holiday to maximise your enjoyment.
As the capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo serves as the gateway to the country. This vibrant metropolis offers a blend of modernity and tradition, with bustling markets, colonial architecture, and a vibrant food scene. Visit historic monuments like the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya in the morning or go on a leisurely cruise in Beira Lake in the evening; there are enough things to do in Colombo to spend your entire holiday here. The best time to visit Colombo is during the dry season, as the rains can be inconvenient for travel.
December – March; June – September
Nestled amidst the hills of the central province, Kandy is renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, explore the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and take a stroll around Kandy Lake. The ideal time to visit Kandy is when the weather is cool and dry.
Best Time To Visit:
December – April
Situated along the southwest coast, Galle is a charming coastal city with a rich colonial heritage. Explore the Galle Fort, stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with Dutch colonial buildings, and unwind at the picturesque beaches nearby. As a coastal area with the majority of attractions situated around the beach, the best time to visit Galle is when it’s dry.
Best Time To Visit:
December – March
Home to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. Climb to the top of the ancient rock fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests and ancient ruins. If you are planning to go hiking or trekking, visiting Sigiriya during the dry season is best.
Best Time To Visit:
June – September
For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Ella is a must-visit destination. Beyond lush greenery and misty mountains, Ella offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and exploring waterfalls. The ideal time to visit Ella is when the weather is pleasant, and the sky is clear.
Best Time To Visit:
December – March
Known as Sri Lanka’s “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is famous for its cool climate, picturesque landscapes, and tea plantations. Take a scenic train ride through the tea country, visit a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process, and explore the beautiful Horton Plains National Park.
Best Time To Visit:
April – June; December – March
Visiting Yala National Park is a must if you’re a wildlife enthusiast. Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, Yala offers thrilling safari experiences amidst stunning natural scenery. Like the other destinations, it is best to visit when the weather is dry and when wildlife sightings are most frequent.
February – July
Sri Lanka is a treasure trove for travel enthusiasts. You can experience everything from a relaxing weekend to exploring nature all in one destination. In fact, you may even feel overwhelmed by the number of places to visit because there is so much on offer! Careful planning is the only way to make sure you can enjoy everything you want to enjoy in a limited time. And we hope that our guide has put your mind at ease and helped you plan your holiday.
To conclude our guide, we offer you the perfect solution to experience everything Sri Lanka has to offer. Our carefully curated Sri Lanka Tour Packages from Chennai will provide the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and warm hospitality. As the best travel agency in Chennai, Madras Travels and Tours can guarantee an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and book your dream vacation today!