Tourism in Sri Lanka
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Tourism in Sri Lanka is big business. But why is tourism so important here and how should it be managed? Read on to find out…
Tourism in Sr Lanka
Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” boasts a compelling mix of ancient temples, pristine beaches, and verdant landscapes. From the sacred city of Anuradhapura to the coastal allure of Galle, the island presents a myriad of travel experiences. In this article, I will delve into the diverse attractions of Sri Lanka, offering a succinct guide to its rich touristic offerings.
Geography of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island country located in the Indian Ocean, south of India. It has a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometres (25,332 square miles), making it the 25th largest country in Asia. Sri Lanka is also known as the “Teardrop of India” due to its distinctive shape. The island is roughly pear-shaped and is about 435 kilometres (270 miles) from north to south and 225 kilometres (140 miles) from east to west at its widest point. It is separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar to the northwest and the Bay of Bengal to the northeast.
The terrain of Sri Lanka is mostly low, flat to rolling plains, with mountains in the central region. The highest peak in the country is Pidurutalagala, which stands at 2,524 metres (8,281 feet) above sea level. The central highlands of Sri Lanka are home to a number of important river systems, including the Mahaweli, Kelani, and Kalu rivers, which provide irrigation and power to the country.
Sri Lanka also has a coastline that stretches for approximately 1,340 kilometres (832 miles), with sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. The island’s climate is tropical and influenced by two monsoon seasons: the northeast monsoon from December to March, and the southwest monsoon from May to September.
The country is divided into nine provinces, which are further subdivided into 25 districts. Each province has a unique culture, and the country as a whole is known for its rich history, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cuisine.
The tourism industry in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wildlife. The tourism industry in Sri Lanka has been growing rapidly in recent years, and it is now one of the major contributors to the country’s economy. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, the country received 2.3 million tourists in 2019, generating over $4 billion in revenue.
Tourists are attracted to Sri Lanka’s beaches, national parks, ancient cities, and cultural sites. Some of the most popular tourist destinations include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, and the Yala and Udawalawe national parks, which are home to elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.
In addition to these attractions, Sri Lanka is also known for its tea plantations, which offer scenic views and opportunities to learn about tea production. The country’s cuisine, which is influenced by Indian, Malay, and Dutch flavours, is also a draw for many tourists.
The tourism industry in Sri Lanka is supported by a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. The government has also invested in infrastructure, including the expansion of the country’s international airport and the development of new highways and railways.
However, the tourism industry in Sri Lanka was hit hard by the Easter Sunday bombings in 2019, which killed over 250 people. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the industry, with international travel restrictions and lockdowns leading to a sharp decline in tourist arrivals. Despite these challenges, the Sri Lankan government and tourism industry are working to rebuild and promote the country as a safe and attractive destination for travellers.
Statistics about tourism in Sri Lanka
Now lets highlight a few ket statistics about tourism in Sri Lanka:
- In 2019, Sri Lanka welcomed 2.3 million tourists, up from 2.1 million in 2018.
- The tourism industry contributed 4.4% to Sri Lanka’s GDP in 2019.
- Tourism generated $4.4 billion in revenue for Sri Lanka in 2019.
- The average length of stay for tourists in Sri Lanka was 11 days in 2019.
- India was the largest source market for tourists to Sri Lanka in 2019, followed by the United Kingdom and China.
- The most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka in 2019 were Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and Negombo.
- Sri Lanka has over 3,000 registered tourist accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.
- The majority of tourists to Sri Lanka in 2019 travelled by air, with Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo being the main entry point.
- The tourism industry in Sri Lanka employs over 500,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in the country.
Most popular tourism attractions in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a diverse range of tourist attractions, from historic cities and cultural sites to natural wonders and wildlife. Here are some examples of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This ancient fortress, built in the 5th century AD, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the central province of Sri Lanka. The fortress is known for its stunning frescoes, landscaped gardens, and panoramic views from the top of the rock.
- Temple of the Tooth: Located in Kandy, the Temple of the Tooth is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. It houses a relic of the tooth of the Buddha and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Yala National Park: This national park, located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and sloth bears. It is also known for its scenic landscapes and birdlife.
- Galle Fort: This historic fort, located in the coastal city of Galle, was built by the Dutch in the 17th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular destination for its charming streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views.
- Adam’s Peak: This mountain, located in the central province of Sri Lanka, is a popular pilgrimage site for people of all religions. The summit is known for its stunning views and the “sacred footprint,” a depression in the rock believed to be the footprint of Buddha, Adam, or Shiva, depending on the religion.
- Nuwara Eliya: This picturesque town, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and tea plantations. It is often referred to as “Little England” for its colonial architecture and English-style gardens.
- Mirissa: This coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and whale watching opportunities. It is a popular destination for water sports, such as surfing and snorkelling.
- Polonnaruwa: This ancient city, located in the northern province of Sri Lanka, was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century AD. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its impressive ruins, including the Royal Palace and the Gal Vihara, a group of statues of the Buddha.
- Dambulla Cave Temple: This temple, located in the central province of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its series of cave temples filled with colourful murals and statues of the Buddha.
- Horton Plains National Park: This national park, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is known for its scenic landscapes and biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sambar deer, and purple-faced langurs. The park is also famous for its viewpoint, known as World’s End, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Most popular types of tourism in Sri Lanka
There are many different types of tourism in Sri Lanka, here are the most common:
- Cultural Tourism: Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient cities, temples, and monuments that attract tourists interested in history and culture. Tourists can visit sites such as the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the Sigiriya rock fortress, and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
- Nature Tourism: Sri Lanka is blessed with diverse natural beauty, including national parks, waterfalls, mountains, and beaches. Tourists can go on safaris to see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in national parks such as Yala and Wilpattu, hike in the central highlands, or relax on the beaches in Mirissa or Unawatuna.
- Adventure Tourism: Sri Lanka offers a range of adventure activities such as surfing, kite surfing, scuba diving, white-water rafting, and trekking. Tourists can go surfing in Arugam Bay, kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, or trekking in the Knuckles mountain range.
- Wellness Tourism: Sri Lanka is home to several Ayurvedic spas and wellness retreats, offering traditional healing therapies and treatments. Tourists can rejuvenate their mind and body at these wellness centres, such as the Santani wellness resort and the Barberyn Ayurveda resort.
- Eco-Tourism: Sri Lanka is committed to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. Tourists can visit ecotourism sites such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya (KDN) Forest Reserve.
- Religious Tourism: Sri Lanka is a multi-religious country, with Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Muslim sites of worship. Tourists can visit sacred sites such as the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the Adam’s Peak pilgrimage site, and the Jaffna Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a Hindu temple.
- Culinary Tourism: Sri Lanka has a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of flavors and spices. Tourists can take cooking classes and food tours to experience Sri Lankan cuisine, such as rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti.
- Beach Tourism: Sri Lanka has a long coastline with beautiful beaches, offering tourists a chance to relax, swim, and sunbathe. Popular beach destinations include Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Arugam Bay.
- Wildlife Tourism: Sri Lanka is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and whales. Tourists can go on safari tours in national parks, such as Yala, Wilpattu, and Minneriya, or go whale watching in Mirissa or Trincomalee.
- Sports Tourism: Sri Lanka is a popular destination for sports tourism, offering tourists a chance to watch or participate in sports such as cricket, rugby, and surfing. Tourists can watch international cricket matches at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo or go surfing in Arugam Bay.
Economic impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Tourism is a major contributor to Sri Lanka’s economy, generating significant foreign exchange earnings and providing employment opportunities. Here are some of the ways that tourism impacts the economy in Sri Lanka:
- Contribution to GDP: Tourism is one of the largest contributors to Sri Lanka’s economy, accounting for around 5% of the country’s GDP. In 2019, the tourism sector generated around USD 4.4 billion in foreign exchange earnings.
- Employment: The tourism industry is a significant source of employment in Sri Lanka, providing direct and indirect employment to around 500,000 people. Jobs in the tourism industry include hotel and restaurant staff, tour operators, guides, and drivers.
- Small Business Development: Tourism also supports the development of small businesses, including guesthouses, souvenir shops, and street vendors, providing income opportunities for local communities.
- Infrastructure Development: Tourism also contributes to the development of infrastructure, including hotels, airports, roads, and public facilities. This development can have positive impacts on the local economy, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
- Tax Revenues: The tourism industry generates significant tax revenues for the government, including taxes on hotel room rates, airport fees, and tourist attractions. These revenues can be used to support public services and infrastructure development.
- Foreign Investment: Tourism in Sri Lanka can also attract foreign investment in the form of hotel and resort development, which can have positive impacts on the local economy.
- Regional Development: Tourism in Sri Lanka has the potential to promote regional development by encouraging visitors to explore areas outside of traditional tourist destinations. This can help to spread the economic benefits of tourism to less developed regions of the country.
Overall, tourism is an important economic driver in Sri Lanka, supporting employment, income generation, and infrastructure development. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, with a sharp decline in tourist arrivals and revenue. As the country continues to recover from the pandemic, efforts to revitalise the tourism industry will be important for the country’s economic growth and development.
Social impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Tourism can have significant social impacts on the host community in Sri Lanka. Here are some of the largest social impacts of tourism:
- Cultural Exchange: Tourism in Sri Lanka can promote cultural exchange between tourists and local communities, creating opportunities for cultural understanding and appreciation. This can also help to preserve and promote the local culture.
- Employment: As mentioned earlier, tourism provides employment opportunities, particularly in areas with few job opportunities. This can have positive social impacts, including reducing poverty and improving standards of living.
- Infrastructure Development: Tourism in Sri Lanka can contribute to the development of infrastructure, including roads, airports, and public facilities, which can benefit local communities.
- Community Development: Tourism in Sri Lanka can support community development by promoting the development of small businesses and encouraging the creation of community-based tourism activities.
- Preservation of Natural and Cultural Resources: Tourism in Sri Lanka can also promote the preservation of natural and cultural resources, such as national parks and heritage sites, by raising awareness and generating revenue for conservation efforts.
- Increased Awareness of Social Issues: Tourism can also raise awareness of social issues, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. This can encourage tourists to support community-based initiatives that address these issues.
However, tourism can also have negative social impacts, including:
- Displacement: Tourism in Sri Lanka can lead to the displacement of local communities, particularly in areas where land and resources are limited.
- Social Conflicts: Tourism in Sri Lanka can also lead to social conflicts, such as tension between tourists and local communities, and between different groups of tourists.
- Cultural Erosion: Tourism in Sri Lanka can also lead to the erosion of local cultures, as local communities may adapt to meet the expectations of tourists.
- Exploitation: Tourism can also lead to the exploitation of local communities, particularly in areas where the tourism industry is dominated by large multinational corporations.
It is important for the tourism industry in Sri Lanka to take into account these potential social impacts and work towards sustainable tourism practices that benefit both tourists and local communities.
Environmental impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Tourism can have significant environmental impacts in Sri Lanka, particularly in areas of high tourist activity. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism:
- Overuse of Natural Resources: Tourism in Sri Lanka can lead to the overuse of natural resources, such as water, energy, and food, particularly in areas with limited resources. This can result in environmental degradation, including soil erosion, deforestation, and depletion of groundwater.
- Pollution: Tourism can also lead to pollution, including air pollution from transportation and waste disposal, water pollution from sewage and wastewater, and noise pollution from tourist activities.
- Habitat Loss: Tourism in Sri Lanka can lead to habitat loss, particularly in areas where tourism development occurs in sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs and rainforests.
- Climate Change: Tourism in Sri Lanka can contribute to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, accommodation, and tourist activities. Climate change can have significant impacts on the environment, including rising sea levels, changes in precipitation patterns, and increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
- Wildlife Disturbance: Tourism in Sri Lanka can also disturb wildlife, particularly in areas with high levels of tourism activity. This can result in negative impacts on the behaviour and health of wildlife.
- Waste Management: Tourism in Sri Lanka can lead to increased waste generation, particularly in areas with high levels of tourism activity. Proper waste management is essential to prevent environmental pollution and degradation.
It is important for the tourism industry in Sri Lanka to take into account these potential environmental impacts and work towards sustainable tourism practices that minimise negative environmental impacts and promote environmental conservation. This can be achieved through measures such as responsible tourism practices, waste reduction and management, use of renewable energy sources, and conservation of natural resources and ecosystems.
Crime and safety in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is generally a safe country for tourists to visit, but like any other country, crime can occur. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas, particularly in crowded places like markets and public transportation. Tourists should take necessary precautions to avoid becoming victims of theft, such as keeping valuables in a secure place and being aware of their surroundings.
In recent years, there have been occasional incidents of violent crime in Sri Lanka, including some targeting tourists. It is important for tourists to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding travelling alone at night and being cautious in unfamiliar areas.
Terrorism was a significant issue in Sri Lanka for many years, particularly during the civil war, but the country has made significant progress in addressing this issue. The government has taken measures to improve security, particularly in tourist areas, and tourists can generally feel safe when travelling in Sri Lanka.
It is also important for tourists in Sri Lanka to be aware of natural hazards in Sri Lanka, such as flash floods, landslides, and earthquakes, particularly during the monsoon season (May to September) and when visiting areas prone to these hazards.
Overall, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Sri Lanka by taking necessary precautions, being aware of their surroundings, and following local customs and regulations. It is always a good idea to stay informed about current events and travel advisories before travelling to any foreign country.
FAQ’s about tourism in Sri Lanka
Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Sri Lanka, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:
Q: What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
A: The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March on the west coast and from April to September on the east coast.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, most visitors to Sri Lanka need a visa. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before your trip or get a visa on arrival at the airport.
Q: What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
A: The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available throughout the country.
Q: Is it safe to travel in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, Sri Lanka is generally a safe country for tourists to visit. However, tourists should take necessary precautions to avoid becoming victims of theft and be aware of their surroundings.
Q: What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?
A: Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka, but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.
Q: What are the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka?
A: The most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka include Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Yala National Park, and Galle Fort.
Q: What is the cuisine like in Sri Lanka?
A: Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its spicy curries, rice, and seafood. Vegetarian options are also widely available.
Q: What is the dress code for tourists in Sri Lanka?
A: Tourists should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting temples and other religious sites.
Q: What is the tipping etiquette in Sri Lanka?
A: Tipping is not expected but appreciated in Sri Lanka. A 10% service charge is often added to restaurant bills.
Q: What is the voltage and electrical socket type in Sri Lanka?
A: The voltage in Sri Lanka is 230V and the electrical socket type is Type D, Type G, and Type M. Tourists should bring a universal adapter.
To Conclude: Tourism in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, with its harmonious blend of ancient heritage and lush landscapes, solidifies its place as a crown jewel of the Indian Ocean. As we’ve navigated its myriad attractions, from historical sites to pristine coasts, the allure of Sri Lankan tourism resonates profoundly. For travellers pursuing a rich tapestry of cultural encounters and natural beauty, Sri Lanka consistently delivers, ensuring memories that linger long after the journey concludes.
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The 12 best places to visit in Sri Lanka
Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read
Polonnaruwa is famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage © leodaphne / Getty Images
With rugged mountains, untouched beaches and fertile soil that grows coconuts, tea and spices, Sri Lanka offers travelers a wondrous mix of experiences unmatched for an island of its size.
Today the country’s rich heritage, delectable cuisine and astonishing wildlife are more accessible than ever, thanks to an ever-improving public transport system. Trains, buses, coaches and tuk-tuks carry visitors to all parts of the island at various price points. But with so many charming places to choose from, where does one start?
Depending on what you’re looking for – art, culture, history – what you put down on your Sri Lanka itinerary is bound to change. Still, here’s our selection of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka to get you started.
Best for exploring on foot
No Sri Lanka itinerary is complete without Colombo , the country’s culturally diverse hub. (But not its capital – that’s actually Sri Jayawardenepura-Kotte!) An ideal first taste of Sri Lanka, with tuk-tuks, cars and buses rushing through busy lanes, Colombo is renowned for its landmark buildings around the cosmopolitan Fort district, including the terracotta-roofed Dutch Hospital .
Be sure to spend some time at Galle Face Green , a seaside promenade where hundreds of families gather to dip their toes in the sea at sunset and children fly kites overhead. Order yourself isso wade , deep-fried prawn and lentil cakes, topped with spicy sambol , and people-watch.
Planning tip: While Colombo is a safe and walkable city, tuk-tuks are inexpensive and convenient for getting around. Always check that your tuk-tuk has a working meter before you get in to ensure you pay the correct fare for your ride.
2. Sigiriya
Best for history buffs and art aficionados
With ornate ponds, royal sleeping chambers and majestic lion paws carved into the base of the rock, the colossal granite fortress of Sigiriya is easily Sri Lanka’s most recognizable site, peeking out of a thick jungle canopy for a glimpse of the ancient kingdom of Kassapa.
Although its frescoes – images of bare-breasted women adorned in jewelry with flowers in their hair – are famous, the view from the top of the rock is unparalleled. A hush of calm echoes over the terraced summit, which covers 1.6 hectares (4 acres).
Planning tip: Get here around 7am – the cooler morning air makes for a pleasant walk up the 1200 steps to the top. Aim to head back down before noon (before the rock surface gets too hot), stay hydrated and wear soft shoes with tread.
3. Anuradhapura
Best for experiencing Buddhist culture
Anuradhapura looks misleadingly like any other Sri Lankan town when you arrive: an unremarkable clock tower, a single train station and small shops lining a busy main road. But the town's simple facade gives nothing away regarding the enormous scale of its heritage as the heartland of Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.
The main feature of this area remains the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to have been planted from a cutting from the tree Buddha attained enlightenment under in Bodhgaya, India. Beyond this, Anuradhapura is bursting with archaeological wonders: colossal dagobas (stupas), temples, palaces and venerable Buddhist sites scattered among the jungles and villages of the area.
Planning tip: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking between sites. Buddhist temples, even as ruins, are still places of worship, and footwear must be removed before entering. Carrying a scarf to cover legs and shoulders is always a good idea.
4. Polonnaruwa
Best for ancient archaeological wonders
Often twinned with a visit to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is also famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage.
As you gaze upon the 14m (46ft) reclining Buddha in Gal Viharaya and its surrounding carvings, you can’t help but imagine what went into creating these figures. The white, grey and black granite softens the details of these intricate carvings, and the scent of fresh flowers and incense, offered to the statues by devotees, floats through the temple's air.
Don’t skip the remaining archaeological sites in the area, including the Royal Ruins , which can be visited in a day and contain closely grouped temples and stupas.
Planning tip: If traveling toward Jaffna in the north of Sri Lanka, both Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are great places to stay and break up the journey.
Best for a taste of Tamil culture
From the Jaffna Fort to the architecturally marvelous Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil , a Hindu temple adorned with brasswork and staggering murals, Jaffna is a relaxed change from the rest of the country. Here you can immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka’s largest ethnic minority: the Tamil people.
Once under Portuguese and Dutch occupation, today’s Jaffna is revitalized with up-and-coming restaurants. Of the several islands off the coast of Jaffna accessible by roads and ferries, Kayts – a hauntingly beautiful, quiet island of fishing communities – and Delft, with its wild ponies descended from horses abandoned by Dutch colonists, are worth a visit.
Planning tip: The Tamil-centric culture in Jaffna differs from the rest of the island. Be mindful of local customs, such as removing footwear when entering certain sites. This includes the Jaffna Public Librar y, where footwear is removed as a means of respecting the knowledge within the building.
6. Trincomalee
Best for an unspoiled beach vacation
Stretches of powdery soft beaches and calm waters meld with dramatic cliffside Hindu temples – among them the famous Kandasamy Kovil , with unmistakable ornamental architecture and a monumental statue of Shiva looking out to sea – for a touch of Sri Lanka that remains off most tourists’ radars.
The coastline here is only disturbed by the occasional bit of driftwood or coconut husk washing ashore in the shallow waters, ripe for snorkeling, where miles of coral reefs and marine life thrive.
Planning tip: Public beaches here do not have lifeguards, and swimming and snorkeling should only be undertaken with a guide.
7. Dambulla
Best for pilgrim trails
An important part of the country’s pilgrim trail, set within a quiet jungle that's home to the native toque macaque (aka toque monkey), Rangiri Cave Temple in Dambulla is the most visited place in Sri Lanka.
Expect troops of monkeys to accompany you on the walk up to the temple, inside which you'll find a series of five caves containing 150 well-preserved statues of Buddha alongside religious art, sculpted and painted into the rock.
Planning tip: Wear white or soft colors as a mark of respect, and expect crowds on full-moon days, which are holy days in the Buddhist calendar. While toque macaques are delightful to watch, they are wild and should never be approached.
8. Minneriya National Park
Best for witnessing the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world
Herds of wild elephants – around 300 in number – graze nearly 9000 hectares (22,240 acres) of Minneriya National Park, where life centers around Minneriya Lake. Watch in awe (cameras at the ready, naturally!) as long trunks draw water and calves roll around on the banks in wet mud.
Once a year, during the dry season, all 300 elephants gather around the banks of the lake to graze in a marvelous natural event known as "the Gathering." This also happens to be the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world.
Planning tip: April to October is the best time to see the Gathering. Prebooking your safari and sharing jeeps helps to reduce the number of vehicles entering the park during this busy period.
Best for experiencing Sri Lanka’s Hill Country
An ideal day trip from Colombo, the train departs the city’s Fort Railway Station and pulls into the heritage town of Kandy in under four hours. As the train curves and winds around mountains to connect rural towns, wide windows frame the view of deep ravines and hillsides densely covered in emerald-green tea bushes.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake , both must-do attractions for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, are easily reached via tuk-tuk from the station.
Planning tip: Visitors are required to cover their arms, legs and shoulders when visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The Kandy-to-Colombo train is an alternative way to experience Sri Lanka’s railway journeys, as popular towns such as Ella are 10 hours away from Colombo.
10. Kalpitiya
Best for surfing enthusiasts
Despite attracting thrill-seekers from around the world, Kalpitiya retains most of its quaint coastal charm, with the exception of a Dutch-era fort that is occupied by the Sri Lankan navy. Cows, goats and donkeys stroll across the villages. Thatched-roof beach huts with outdoor showers offer that stereotypically pleasing surf-shack vibe, and most mornings you’ll wake to a crowing rooster. Most important, just 30km (19 miles) north of here at Vella Island, a narrow sandbar, you’re surrounded by tall, clear waves – kitesurfing heaven.
Planning tip: The weather for kitesurfing is ideal between October to May, and there are several kitesurfing schools around Kalpitiya.
11. Kumana National Park
Best for spotting birds
Known for its 200-hectare (494-acre) bird reserve, Kumana National Park is a birder’s dream, home to throngs of vibrant kingfishers and jungle fowl alongside 255 recorded species of endemic and migrating birds, all of which find sanctuary in the park's mangrove swamps and lagoons.
Expect to spot falcons and eagles as they soar above or peacocks shimmying on the ground. Also frequently spotted here: cleverly camouflaged crocodiles lying in wait on the sandy banks of the lake for a chance encounter with buffalo.
Cap off your trip here with a visit to the coastal village of Panama, which many visitors bypass in favor of bigger towns, such as Pottuvil and Arugam Bay . Between the tiny monastery under a rock, thatched-roof homes and dirt tracks through paddy fields, Panama is one of the most remote places to see.
Planning tip: Entrance to Kumana National Park is through the village of Okanda. Prearranging a guided jeep safari is best for enjoying the park.
12. Adam’s Peak
Best for experiencing a night hike
Adam’s Peak (the footprint of Prophet Adam, in Islam), Sri Pada (the sacred foot of Buddha) and Samanala Kanda (the mountain of the butterflies and a reference to the local deity Saman) are multiple names given to Sri Lanka’s holiest peak, considered sacred by all religions on the island.
Join thousands of pilgrims, dressed in white, in the early hours of the morning to hike slowly and quietly to the little temple at the top . Humble teahouses, resting places and shrines dot the landscape as you ascend. Pilgrims greet each other through blessings for a good climb. The hike to the top takes three to four hours, depending on the trail you choose. Aim to summit at dawn to catch the first rays of the sun wrapping around the mountain.
Planning tip: Adam’s Peak is 2243m (7359ft) high and a moderate climb. Ascending via Hatton and descending via Ratnapura is the shortest route, although steeper.
The full-moon days in December and May mark the beginning and end of the climbing season. During this period, set off earlier to sidestep the crowds, or expect slow and packed trails. Climbing in the offseason is not recommended, as it coincides with the southeastern monsoon.
This article was first published April 2021 and updated November 2023
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Top 7 Historical Destinations To Visit...
Valley view with villages and mountains at sunrise. View from Adam's peak, Sri Lanka
5 Of The Most Breathtaking City...
The ruins of the capital built by the parricidal King Kassapa I (477–95) lie on the steep slopes and at the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high (the 'Lion's Rock', which dominates the jungle from all sides) (UNESCO)...
English Breakfast Tea In Maskeliya
over one million Sri Lankans are employed in the tea industry.
Meet the Mischievous Rulers of the...
Upcoming Events & Festivals
Mid Season Blues (or Browns) Tropical Kitesurfing Kalpitiya
August 2021. The dry season in Sri Lanka. The tropical sun shines bright and all of us kiters are getting shades darker! The vibes continue to be great, with a smaller crowd.
Plan Your Dream Holiday
Each day on this island promises new experiences, discoveries, and life-long memories. With so much to do,let us help you with these itineraries created just for you!
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A tropical paradise that looks too good be true? Don't just take our word for it, take it from the breathtaking shots by travellers just like you!
LONELY PLANET : BEST IN TRAVEL 2021
Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.
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