About Place
- "A teardrop island of lush greenery and serene beaches."
- "The land of ancient ruins and vibrant wildlife."
- "A cultural mosaic with a rich historical tapestry."
Reasons to Visit
- Diverse Landscapes : Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of landscapes from golden beaches and lush rainforests to rolling tea plantations and misty highlands. The diversity within a small geographical area allows travelers to experience multiple ecosystems in a short time.
- Rich Cultural Heritage : The island boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, and the sacred city of Kandy. These sites provide deep insights into the island's historical and cultural significance.
- Wildlife and Nature : Sri Lanka is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts with its numerous national parks like Yala and Udawalawe, where one can spot elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The country's conservation efforts have made it a top destination for eco-tourism and wildlife safaris.
Visa
- United States : Travelers from the US need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka.
- United Kingdom : UK citizens also need to obtain an ETA.
- Australia : Australian travelers must apply for an ETA.
- India : Indian nationals can apply for an ETA online or obtain a visa on arrival.
- European Union : EU citizens generally need an ETA to enter Sri Lanka.
- Japan : Japanese citizens are required to get an ETA.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Estimated round-trip airfare for two from a major metro city to Colombo : $1200
- Hotel cost :
- Average hotel cost per night : $100
- Total cost for 7 nights : $700
- Food cost :
- Average meal cost : $15
- Total food cost for two for 7 days (lunch and dinner) : $420
- Activity cost :
- Entrance fees and activities : $300 for two
- Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental and transport : $400 for the duration
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Colombo
Arrive in Colombo, Sri Lanka's vibrant capital. Spend the morning exploring the bustling Pettah Market and the historic Fort area. For lunch, try some delicious Sri Lankan curry at the Ministry of Crab. In the evening, visit the Galle Face Green for a stroll along the seafront and enjoy dinner at the elegant restaurant, Nuga Gama, known for its traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Day 2 : Kandy
Travel to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Start with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, followed by a serene walk around Kandy Lake. For lunch, savor local flavors at the Empire Cafe. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens. Dinner at the Kandyan Arts Residency, which offers a mix of local and international dishes, is a perfect way to end the day.
Day 3 : Sigiriya and Dambulla
Head to Sigiriya early in the morning to climb the iconic Lion Rock. After descending, have lunch at The Sigiriya Village. Next, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, renowned for its stunning rock paintings and statues. Return to Kandy for dinner at the Royal Bar & Hotel, which offers a colonial ambiance and tasty cuisine.
Day 4 : Nuwara Eliya
Travel to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England." Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka's famous tea. Have lunch at the Grand Hotel, which offers a charming colonial setting. In the afternoon, take a stroll around Gregory Lake. Dinner at the Hill Club will provide an authentic experience with its old-world charm.
Day 5 : Ella
Take a scenic train ride to Ella, passing through lush tea plantations and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at Cafe Chill. In the afternoon, hike to Little Adam's Peak for breathtaking views. Dinner at the 98 Acres Resort is highly recommended, with its fantastic view and exquisite dishes.
Day 6 : Yala National Park
Travel to Yala National Park for a wildlife safari. Spend the morning spotting elephants, leopards, and other wildlife. Lunch at the Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers a unique dining experience. Continue the safari in the afternoon. Stay at the Jetwing Yala and enjoy a delightful dinner under the stars.
Day 7 : Galle
Head to the coastal town of Galle. Visit the Galle Fort and explore its narrow streets lined with colonial buildings. Have lunch at Peddlar's Inn Cafe. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Unawatuna Beach. Dinner at the Fort Printers Hotel offers a perfect end to the day with its historic charm and delicious menu.
Day 8 : Departure from Colombo
Return to Colombo and visit the National Museum if time permits. Enjoy a final lunch at the Gallery Cafe, known for its art and architecture. Depending on your flight schedule, do some last-minute shopping or relaxation before heading to the airport for departure.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- Use reliable transportation services.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
- Avoid isolated areas after dark.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Be cautious with street food.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Purchase travel insurance before your trip.
Flights
- Emirates
- SriLankan Airlines
- Qatar Airways : ~10 hours, $600 round-trip.
Hotels
- Galle Face Hotel, Colombo
- The Golden Crown Hotel, Kandy
- Jetwing St. Andrew's, Nuwara Eliya
- 98 Acres Resort & Spa, Ella
- Jetwing Yala, Yala
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Colombo : +94 11 2327587
- Police : 119
- Ambulance : 110
- Firefighters : 110
Country
Closet Airport
- Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Nearest City
- Colombo
Heritage Sites
- Sigiriya
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Sacred City of Kandy
- Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
- Ancient City of Anuradhapura
- Galle Fort
Airlines
- SriLankan Airlines
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
Currency
- Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Languages Spoken
- Sinhala
- Tamil
- English
Real Story
The story of Sri Lanka’s struggle for independence is a significant chapter in its history. The island, known as Ceylon during colonial times, was under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule for several centuries. The British took control of the entire island in 1815, and it became a crown colony in 1818.
The road to independence began in the early 20th century with the rise of nationalist movements. The Ceylon National Congress, formed in 1919, played a pivotal role in pushing for self-governance. Key figures like D.S. Senanayake, the father of Sri Lankan independence, and Sir Ponnambalam Arunachalam were instrumental in these efforts.
World War II was a turning point, as it weakened British control and stirred nationalistic fervor. The Ceylonese participated in the war effort, and post-war, the British government began to acknowledge the growing demands for independence. In 1947, the Soulbury Commission recommended a new constitution, and elections were held.
On February 4, 1948, Sri Lanka gained independence, with D.S. Senanayake becoming its first Prime Minister. The transition was relatively peaceful compared to other colonies, and Ceylon became a member of the Commonwealth.
Post-independence, the country faced challenges, including ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority, leading to a civil war that lasted from 1983 to 2009. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka has made significant strides in rebuilding and developing its economy, making it the vibrant nation it is today.
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. Rice and curry dominate the culinary landscape, with dishes often accompanied by a variety of side dishes, chutneys, and sambols. Unique dishes include Hoppers, a type of bowl-shaped pancake, and Kottu Roti, a street food favorite made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat. Sri Lanka's seafood is exceptional, with fresh catches like crab curry and fish ambul thiyal being must-tries. The use of coconut, spices, and herbs gives the cuisine its distinctive aroma and taste, making it a gastronomic delight.Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant and aromatic blend of flavors, reflecting the island's rich cultural diversity and abundant natural resources. The food is characterized by its bold use of spices, fresh ingredients, and a harmonious balance of tastes.
Rice and Curry : The staple dish of Sri Lankan cuisine is rice and curry. A typical meal consists of steamed rice accompanied by a variety of curries, which can include vegetables, lentils, fish, and meat. Each curry is uniquely spiced, often using ingredients like coconut milk, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom.
Hoppers (Appa) : Hoppers are a popular breakfast item in Sri Lanka. They are bowl-shaped pancakes made from a fermented batter of rice flour and coconut milk. They come in different varieties, such as plain hoppers, egg hoppers (with an egg cooked in the middle), and milk hoppers (with a splash of coconut milk).
Kottu Roti : This beloved street food is made by stir-frying chopped roti (a type of flatbread) with vegetables, meat, and spices. The rhythmic clanging sound of metal blades chopping the roti on the griddle is a familiar tune in Sri Lankan street markets.
Culture and History
Sri Lanka is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions influenced by its long history and diverse population. The island’s culture is a blend of indigenous Sinhalese traditions and the various influences brought by traders, colonizers, and immigrants over centuries. The ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka, such as Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, have left a rich legacy of monumental architecture, religious sites, and intricate sculptures.
The majority Sinhalese population practices Theravada Buddhism, which plays a central role in the island's cultural identity. This is reflected in the numerous stupas, temples, and religious festivals like Vesak, which celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha with colorful lanterns and vibrant celebrations. Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity are also practiced, contributing to the cultural mosaic.
Colonial influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras have left their mark on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and even language. The Portuguese introduced Catholicism and certain culinary flavors, the Dutch established a legacy of fortifications and canals, and the British brought tea cultivation and an education system that still prevails.
Traditional arts such as Kandyan dancing, drumming, and crafts like mask carving and batik painting are integral parts of Sri Lankan culture. The island is also known for its Ayurvedic practices, offering wellness retreats and treatments based on ancient holistic principles.