What makes Sri Lanka Unique

Sri Lanka is a truly unique and captivating country that offers a plethora of reasons to visit. The island nation boasts breath-taking natural landscapes, ranging from verdant tropical forests to pristine beaches and majestic mountains. Sri Lanka is home to an incredible variety of ecosystems, which makes it a paradise for those who love nature and seek adventure.

What sets Sri Lanka apart from other destinations is its rich cultural heritage and ancient customs that reflect the country's fascinating history. Visitors can explore and witness the intricate designs of ancient temples and stupas and participate in traditional festivals, which provide a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's unique culture and traditions.

Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, Sri Lanka offers visitors an array of thrilling activities to enjoy, such as wildlife safaris, surfing, and trekking. Additionally, the locals are incredibly friendly and hospitable, the cuisine is delicious, and the scenery is breath-taking, making it an unforgettable destination.

Top Highlights in Sri Lanka

Soak up the Sunshine on Sensational Beaches

Sri Lanka has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal clear waters, soft sand, and stunning sunsets. Relaxing on the beaches is a great way to unwind and soak up the island's natural beauty.

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Indulge in Sri Lankan Seafood

Sri Lanka is an island nation, and seafood is a staple of the local cuisine. Trying Sri Lankan seafood is a must-do for foodies, as it is fresh, flavourful, and cooked in a variety of unique ways.

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Spot Rare and Magnificent Wildlife at National Parks

Sri Lanka is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The national parks offer visitors a chance to see these animals in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable experience.

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Discover Nuwara Eliya's History of Tea

Sri Lanka is known for its tea, and Nuwara Eliya is where much of the country's tea is grown. Visiting the tea plantations and learning about the history of tea production in Sri Lanka is an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of the country's culture and economy.

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Climb to the Towering Summit of Sigiriya

Sigiriya is an iconic landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. Climbing to the top of this towering rock formation rewards visitors with breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape.

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Explore the Glorious and Curious Temples

Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, and visiting its temples is an excellent way to get a sense of the country's history and traditions. The temples are ornately decorated with intricate carvings and paintings, making them visually stunning and fascinating to explore.

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Travel Ideas for Sri Lanka

Sea Turtle Conservation in Sri Lanka (16+ years)

Gentle and beloved creatures, turtles have been part of our planet for approximately 150 million years. However, they are currently facing the risk of extinction. Each turtle species uniquely affects the ecosystems, diversity, and habitats where they reside, making their protection vital. Turtle conservation projects in Sri Lanka primarily focus on increasing the birth rates and survival of baby turtles. These projects also involve research and data collection to educate local communities about the importance of protecting these animals. As a participant, you will engage in various tasks such as beach cleaning and patrolling, feeding, caring for, and cleaning the turtles for a week or more. You will also contribute to support projects and raise awareness among local communities. By joining this project, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding the future of these incredible creatures. Your efforts will contribute to the preservation of their habitats and educate communities on the importance of conservation. Together, we can make a positive impact and ensure the continued existence of these remarkable beings.

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Eternal Summers in the East of Sri Lanka

Commencing the journey from the coastal city of Negombo will give you a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s beaches and prepare you for the East Coast. On the way you will get to view the spectacular vistas of the central hills and see the majestic elephants at play at an orphanage made solely for them. Our tour takes you to Kandy, with its many attractions such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic, as a visit to the island cannot be complete without visiting the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. Then, it’s the popular East Coast destination Pasikudah, known to have one of the longest stretches of shallow reef coastline in the world. The uniqueness of Pasikudah is its relatively weak current and shallow depth which makes it possible to wade in for several kilometres in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Pasikudah Beach is a hot spot with award winning hotels, also part of our special tour. Heading back from the splendour of the coast, you get to visit the ancient ruins of a bygone era and the famous Lion Rock or Sigiriya with its world famous frescoes, ancient ponds and ruins of a palace built on a rock. The end of your journey is in the business hub of Colombo, which has its own history to boast about and you can explore it at the Colombo Museum, Dutch Hospital and with a tour of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for souvenirs or more at the shopping malls of this old colonial city, which has a rich past and booming future.

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Spectacular Sri Lanka

Be transported to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, resplendent with age-old kingdoms and a culture so uniquely and carefully guarded by its people. Begin at the fishing village of Negombo, known as Little Rome, with its pristine beaches, glistening sea and amazing seafood. Next, head towards the ancient kingdoms where kings and queens roamed in sumptuos palanquins, visit palaces built on rocks or view the Dambulla Cave temple displaying the richness of ancient arts and crafts. Enjoy the panoramic views atop Sigiriya and Dambulla. Witness the famous Elephant Gathering at the Minneriya National Park, where hundreds of elephants frolic at the water holes. You can also step into a rural village through the Hiriwadunna Nature Trail; a village where trees outnumber people, with catamaran boat trips on the lake and bullock cart rides as part of its highlights. Explore the nature trails of Sri Lanka off the beaten track, that take you to lesser known sites of the island. Visit the Veddahs in Dambana, Sri Lanka’s indigenous group of people displaying their own culture and traditions at a specially choreographed Veddah Program. The tour will also take you towards Kandy, which hosts the famous cultural show depicting the intrinsic art forms such as the vibrant Kandyan dancers which are unique to the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. From Kandy, you will be taken to the cool climes of Nuwara Eliyabefore, and the final stop Colombo for a city tour and shopping as part of our spectacular tour.

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Wildlife and Cultural Escapes in Sri Lanka

From start to finish, the Sri Lanka Wildlife and Cultural Tour is a chance to indulge your love for nature and culture together. Our experts will ensure the best travel experience from the moment you land. Let us whisk you away to the coastal city of Negombo, known as Little Rome, renowned for the its abundance of seafood and amazing sandy beaches, followed by the viewing of the well preserved ruins of the ancient kingdoms of Dambulla, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa. Make the most of your journey at the hill capital Kandy which holds onto unique traditions, customs and a dance style venerated worldwide, prior to exploring the wild terrain of the Gal Oya National Park to glimpse the rarest species of birds and other animals, from swimming elephants to sloths, bears, and more. The Gal Oya safari tours include a more adventurous walk in the park with an expert naturalist, offering guidance and a boat safari for that up close sighting of eagles and other birds. Join a Jeep Safari of the Yala National park which will give you a chance to see the elusive leopard taking a cat nap on the rock, or feasting on its food. When you think you’ve seen it all, we take you on a whale watching tour to Mirissa - home to the largest marine mammal - before journeying on the coastal strip towards Galle for a Galle Fort Tour to see a fort built by the Dutch in the fifteenth century. A hop, step and jump away are Unawatuna’s glistening waters, inviting you to splash around, float or swim before splurging on a shopping escapade in the business hub of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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Cultural Tour of Sri Lanka

Discover the history and culture of the beautiful island of Sri Lanka in a unique way with our 3-week cultural tour. Experience multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and engage with locals through activities tailored to your interests. Starting in Colombo, we'll take you on a journey through Anamaduwa, Dambulla, Kandy, Ella, Mawella, and back to Colombo.Ella, a small town nestled 1,000 meters above sea level, which offers cooler air, lush vegetation, and plenty of fruit in a pleasant hill climate. It's one of the best hiking destinations in Sri Lanka and the perfect place to relax for a few days, read a book, or enjoy a cup of tea. Kandy is of special religious importance, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, which houses an original tooth of Buddha. This draws many Buddhist pilgrims to witness the daily ceremonies where the tooth is brought out of the treasure chamber and presented to visitors. Take a stroll around the Kandy Lake, wander the bustling markets, and explore the streets of Kandy to get a feel for this wonderful city. Discover the jungle-covered temple city of Polonnaruwa, once the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom and the resting place of the holy tooth relic. Today, only ruins remain of this magnificent time, including the impressive round temple of Vatadage, where the relic was kept, the world-famous colossal Buddha statues carved out of the rock, medieval paintings, and a large number of other statues. Our personalized approach means that each Sri Lanka cultural tour is tailored to your preferences and can be extended or adjusted as needed. Come with us and experience the beauty and wonder of Sri Lanka's history and culture.

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Best Time to Visit

Sri Lanka's peak tourist season is typically from December to April, which coincides with the dry season on the west and southwest coasts as well as the mountains. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can consider visiting the quieter east coast between May and October when the weather is generally favourable.

Important Information for Your Travel Plans

Special Travel Tips from our Experts

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Where to Stay

Travellers to Sri Lanka can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their preferences and budgets. The island offers luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, homestays, villas, apartments, and hostels. In addition, some travellers may opt for eco-lodges, camping, or glamping to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. Whatever the choice, visitors can expect warm hospitality and a memorable stay in this beautiful country.

Getting Around

Tourists have a few options to travel around Sri Lanka. Hiring a car and driver provides flexibility and a personalised service. Alternatively, public transportation, including buses and trains, is a more budget-friendly option. Trains are particularly scenic, with some routes offering breath-taking views of the island's landscapes. Tuk-tuks are also a popular mode of transportation for short distances.

Travel Themes Most Common for Sri Lanka

Local Cuisine

Sri Lanka has a rich and diverse culinary culture, and there are many local foods that tourists should try.

  • One of the most popular dishes is rice and curry, which consists of steamed rice served with an array of curries made from vegetables, meats, and/or seafood.
  • Another must-try dish is string hoppers, which are thin rice noodles steamed into circular discs and served with coconut sambal and curries.
  • Kottu roti is another Sri Lankan specialty, made from shredded roti bread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat, and flavoured with spices and curry leaves.
  • Hoppers, a type of pancake made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk, are also a popular Sri Lankan snack or breakfast food.
  • Seafood lovers should try Sri Lanka's fresh and flavourful fish curries or devilled prawns,
  • Those with a sweet tooth should not miss out on watalappam, a creamy coconut milk pudding, or kiri-peni, a sweet made from condensed milk and cashews.
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Festivals & Public Holidays

Sri Lanka is a country with a rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, so there are several noteworthy festivals and holidays that tourists can experience. Here are some of them:

  1. Sinhala and Tamil New Year: This is the biggest cultural festival in Sri Lanka, celebrated in mid-April. The festival marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the new year. It is a time of feasting, traditional games, and family gatherings.
  2. Vesak: This is a Buddhist festival that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. It is celebrated in May with illuminated decorations, lantern processions, and acts of generosity toward the poor.
  3. Kandy Esala Perahera: This is a ten-day festival held in Kandy in July or August to honour the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The festival includes nightly processions with drummers, dancers, and elephants adorned with colourful regalia.
  4. Deepavali: Also known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali is a Hindu festival celebrated in October or November. It is a time for families to light candles and diyas, decorate their homes, and share traditional sweets with one another.
  5. Christmas: Although Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, Christmas is still celebrated in the country with great enthusiasm, especially in Colombo and other major cities. Visitors can expect to see festive decorations, special events, and delicious Christmas treats in many places.

These holidays and festivals offer a great opportunity for tourists to experience Sri Lanka's vibrant culture and traditions first hand. However, it's worth noting that some of these events can be quite crowded, so it's important to plan ahead and book accommodations early if you plan to visit during these times.

When to Start Planning your Trip

Currency & Payment

The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). It's recommended to exchange money at authorised exchange centres or banks. Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many tourist areas and larger establishments, but it's always best to check with the merchant beforehand. It's also important to note that some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash. Travellers should carry enough cash to cover expenses in more remote areas. ATMs are widely available in urban areas, but may be limited or unavailable in rural areas.

Security

Sri Lanka is generally considered a safe country for tourists to visit, with low rates of violent crime. However, travellers should be aware of the risk of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. It is recommended to keep valuable items, such as passports, cash, and electronics, secured and out of sight.

Additionally, Sri Lanka has experienced some incidents of terrorism and civil unrest in the past, but the situation has improved significantly in recent years. Visitors should stay informed about current events and travel advisories before and during their trip.

It is also important to follow local customs and laws, such as dressing modestly at religious sites and avoiding public displays of affection. By exercising common sense and taking the necessary precautions, tourists can enjoy a safe and rewarding trip to Sri Lanka.

Visa & Immigration Rules

As of March 2023, EU travellers visiting Sri Lanka must have a valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of arrival. They must also obtain a visa prior to their arrival, either through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system or through the Sri Lankan diplomatic mission in their home country. Additionally, travellers may be required to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to cover their stay in Sri Lanka. It is always best to check with the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest entry requirements before you travel.

Health & Hygiene

Sri Lanka is generally a safe and healthy destination for tourists, but there are some health precautions that travellers should take before and during their visit:

  • Vaccinations: It is recommended that travellers to Sri Lanka are up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are also recommended for most travellers. In addition, some travellers may need vaccinations for hepatitis B, rabies, and yellow fever, depending on their itinerary and planned activities. It is recommended that travellers consult with a healthcare provider or travel medicine specialist for specific advice.
  • Mosquito-borne diseases: Sri Lanka is a tropical country and there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus. Travellers should take measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers, and staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning.
  • Food and water safety: Travellers should be cautious about drinking tap water in Sri Lanka and should instead drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated. It is also recommended that travellers avoid eating raw or undercooked foods, as well as street food and food from unhygienic sources.

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