Things to Do in Sri Lanka: Top Attractions and Experiences for Travellers

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Sri Lanka offers travellers a diverse array of experiences. This island nation boasts ancient ruins, lush tea plantations, and pristine beaches.

Visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spot wildlife on safari, and relax on tropical shores all in one trip.

Historical Sites
- Ancient Cities
- Historic Forts
Cultural Experiences
Natural Wonders: Things to Do in Sri Lanka
Adventurous Activities: Things to Do in Sri Lanka
Urban Exploration: Things to Do in Sri Lanka
- Capital City Highlights
- Urban Leisure Activities
Tea Country
- Tea Plantations
- Scenic Train Journeys
Coastal Charm: Things to Do in Sri Lanka
- Marine Life Exploration
- Beachside Relaxation
Frequently Asked Questions

From climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress to watching the sunrise at Little Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka’s natural wonders never fail to impress. The country’s rich culture shines through in its flavorful cuisine and colourful festivals.

Adventure seekers can go kitesurfing on Kalpitiya Peninsula or white water rafting in Kitulgala.

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without seeing its wildlife. Travellers can spot elephants and leopards on safari in Udawalawe National Park or go whale watching off the southern coast. The country’s ancient cities like Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura offer glimpses into its fascinating history.

With so much to see and do, Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable journey for every type of traveller.

Historical Sites

Sri Lanka boasts remarkable historical sites that offer glimpses into its rich past. From ancient cities to well-preserved forts, these attractions showcase the island’s cultural heritage.

Ancient Cities

Anuradhapura stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most important ancient cities. It served as a royal capital for over 1,000 years. The city is home to many religious and historical landmarks.

The Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest living human-planted tree in the world, grows here. It holds great significance for Buddhists.

Polonnaruwa, another ancient capital, features well-preserved ruins. Visitors can explore royal palaces, temples, and impressive stone statues.

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient palace complex sits atop a massive rock formation. It’s known for its frescoes and landscaped gardens.

Historic Forts

Galle Fort is a prime example of Sri Lanka’s colonial history. The Dutch built this seaside fortification in the 17th century. It blends European architecture with South Asian traditions.

Inside the fort, visitors can wander narrow streets lined with colonial-era buildings. The Dutch Hospital, now a shopping and dining complex, is a popular attraction.

Trincomalee Fort, also known as Fort Frederick, offers stunning views of the bay. The Portuguese originally built it, but the Dutch and British later modified it.

These forts provide insight into Sri Lanka’s strategic importance in maritime trade routes.

Cultural Experiences

Sri Lanka offers rich cultural experiences for visitors. From ancient temples to flavorful cuisine and vibrant festivals, the island nation’s heritage comes alive through various activities and traditions.

Temple Visits

Sri Lanka’s Buddhist temples are must-see attractions. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy houses a relic believed to be Buddha’s tooth. Visitors can witness daily rituals and prayers.

Colombo’s Gangaramaya Temple blends Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture. It features a museum, library, and learning centre.

Kandy Lake, surrounded by temples, offers a peaceful setting for reflection. Visitors can stroll around the lake and observe local life.

Local Cuisine

Sri Lankan food reflects diverse cultural influences. Kottu roti, a popular street food, consists of chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and meat.

Jaffna crab curry showcases Tamil culinary traditions from the northern region. It’s known for its spicy and tangy flavours.

Cooking classes allow visitors to learn traditional recipes. Participants can shop for ingredients at local markets and prepare dishes like coconut sambol and dhal curry.

Cultural Festivals

Sri Lanka’s festivals showcase its multicultural heritage. Vesak, celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, features colourful lanterns and free food stalls.

The Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand procession honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic, includes dancers, musicians, and decorated elephants.

Tamil and Hindu festivals like Pongal and Diwali add to Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry. These events often involve special foods, rituals, and community gatherings.

Natural Wonders: Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka boasts diverse natural wonders that captivate visitors. From pristine beaches to misty mountains and wildlife-rich national parks, the island offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers.

Beaches & Water Sports

Sri Lanka’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches perfect for relaxation and adventure. Unawatuna Beach is a popular spot with golden sands and calm waters that are ideal for swimming.

Arugam Bay attracts surfers from around the world with its world-class waves. The bay offers excellent conditions for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching along the coast. Many beaches also have turtle hatcheries where visitors can learn about conservation efforts.

Mountain Ranges

The central highlands of Sri Lanka offer breathtaking landscapes and cooler climates. Ella is a charming mountain town surrounded by tea plantations and hiking trails.

Visitors can trek to Ella Rock for panoramic views of the misty hills. The nearby Haputale Mountains provide equally stunning vistas and are home to lush forests.

For a unique experience, travellers can take the scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy, winding through verdant hills and tea estates. This journey is often considered one of the most beautiful train routes in the world.

National Parks & Wildlife: Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s national parks teem with diverse wildlife. Yala National Park is famous for its high density of Sri Lankan leopards and offers excellent safari opportunities.

Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks are known for their large gatherings of Asian elephants. During the dry season, hundreds of elephants congregate around ancient reservoirs.

Wilpattu National Park, the largest in Sri Lanka, is home to various animals including sloth bears and water buffalo. Bundala and Kumana National Parks are havens for bird watchers, hosting numerous migratory species.

Visitors can also spot blue whales off the coast during whale-watching tours, adding to Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife experiences.

Adventurous Activities: Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers many exciting activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. From hiking scenic trails to spotting wildlife and enjoying water sports, there’s something for everyone.

Trekking and Hiking

Sri Lanka’s diverse landscape provides great trekking opportunities. Climbing Sigiriya rock fortress offers amazing views and a glimpse into ancient history. The trek up is challenging but rewarding.

Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak are popular hikes in the hill country. These trails wind through tea plantations and offer stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.

For a more intense challenge, Adam’s Peak is a must-try. This sacred mountain involves climbing over 5,000 steps. Many hikers start at night to reach the summit for sunrise.

Pidurangala Rock near Sigiriya is another great option. It’s less crowded and provides panoramic views of the area, including Sigiriya itself.

Wildlife Encounters

Sri Lanka’s national parks offer exciting safari experiences. Jeep safaris are a popular way to spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Yala National Park is known for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Visitors can also see elephants, crocodiles, and many bird species.

Udawalawe National Park is great for elephant sightings. The park has a large elephant population, and sightings are almost guaranteed.

Minneriya National Park hosts “The Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants come together during the dry season. It’s a unique spectacle that shouldn’t be missed.

Water Adventures

Sri Lanka’s coastline provides ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing is popular along the southern and eastern coasts. Arugam Bay is a world-renowned surf spot with waves suitable for all levels.

Kitesurfing is gaining popularity in Sri Lanka. Kalpitiya is the main hub for this sport, offering ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced kite surfers.

Snorkelling and diving are great ways to explore Sri Lanka’s underwater world. Pigeon Island near Trincomalee and Hikkaduwa on the south coast offers vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

White water rafting in Kitulgala provides an adrenaline rush for adventure seekers. The rapids range from grade 2 to 4, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Urban Exploration: Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s cities offer a mix of colonial architecture, modern development, and vibrant culture. Visitors can experience bustling markets, historical landmarks, and lively entertainment scenes.

Capital City Highlights

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s largest city, is a must-visit for urban explorers. The city’s heart, Galle Face Green, is a seaside promenade perfect for evening strolls. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and enjoy street food.

Colombo’s urban planning blends old and new. Colonial-era buildings stand alongside modern skyscrapers. The Fort area showcases this contrast, with its mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture.

For a unique city tour, hop on a tuk-tuk. These three-wheeled taxis zip through traffic, offering a thrilling way to see the sights.

Urban Leisure Activities

Sri Lankan cities come alive at night. Colombo’s nightlife scene features rooftop bars, clubs, and live music venues. Many hotels host cultural shows, showcasing traditional dance and music.

Jaffna, in the north, offers a different urban experience. Its streets are lined with colourful Hindu temples and markets selling local specialities.

Trincomalee, on the east coast, combines urban attractions with beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history at Fort Frederick, and then relax on nearby Uppuveli Beach.

Urban food markets are great places to sample local cuisine. Try hoppers, a crispy pancake-like dish, or kottu roti, a popular street food.

Tea Country

Sri Lanka’s Tea Country offers lush landscapes and unique experiences. Visitors can explore sprawling plantations and enjoy scenic train rides through misty hills.

Tea Plantations

Tea plantations in Sri Lanka cover vast areas of the country’s central highlands. Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” is famous for its high-grown tea. This area produces light, delicate teas at elevations over 1,800 meters.

The Kandy region is known for its mid-grown teas, which have a stronger flavour. Many tea estates offer tours where visitors can learn about tea production. Guests can see how leaves are picked, processed, and packaged.

Lipton’s Seat provides stunning views over surrounding tea fields. It’s named after Sir Thomas Lipton, who helped popularize Ceylon tea worldwide. Visitors can hike or take a tuk-tuk to reach this scenic viewpoint.

Scenic Train Journeys

The train ride from Kandy to Ella is often called one of the world’s most beautiful. The journey takes passengers through misty hills and tea plantations. Large windows allow travelers to take in breathtaking views.

Trains pass by small villages, waterfalls, and bridges. The Nine Arch Bridge near Ella is a popular spot for photos. Built entirely of brick and stone, it’s an impressive sight amid the green landscape.

The trip usually takes about 7 hours. Many tourists choose to stand by the open doors for the best views and photos. It’s wise to book tickets in advance, especially for observation cars.

Coastal Charm: Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s coastline offers breathtaking views and exciting activities. Visitors can explore marine life and relax on sandy beaches. The island’s shores provide unforgettable experiences for all types of travellers.

Marine Life Exploration

Trincomalee is a prime spot for whale watching. Blue whales and sperm whales are often seen in these waters. Snorkelling and diving are popular in Hikkaduwa.

The coral reefs teem with colourful fish and sea turtles. Ganduwa Island, near Trincomalee, is great for dolphin watching. Boat tours leave early in the morning for the best chances to see marine life.

Many coastal areas offer glass-bottom boat rides. These trips let visitors see underwater life without getting wet. Some beaches have tide pools where small sea creatures can be observed up close.

Beachside Relaxation

Sri Lanka’s beaches are perfect for unwinding. Soft sand and warm waters invite visitors to lounge and swim. Unawatuna Beach is known for its calm waters and scenic beauty.

Early risers can enjoy stunning sunrises over the ocean. The beach at Trincomalee faces east, making it ideal for morning views. Many coastal hotels offer yoga classes on the beach at dawn.

Beach shacks serve fresh seafood and coconut drinks. Visitors can try local specialities like fish curry. Some beaches have gentle waves good for beginner surfers. Others are calm enough for paddleboarding or kayaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sri Lanka offers diverse experiences for all types of travellers. From romantic getaways to family adventures, the island nation has something special for everyone.

What are the top destinations for couples travelling in Sri Lanka?

Couples visiting Sri Lanka can enjoy romantic experiences in several locations. The hill station of Nuwara Eliya provides a charming setting with its colonial architecture and tea plantations.

Beach towns like Mirissa and Unawatuna offer stunning sunsets and intimate seaside dining. For a unique experience, couples can take a scenic train ride through the mountains or go on a wildlife safari in Yala National Park.

Which attractions should families prioritize when visiting Sri Lanka?

Families travelling to Sri Lanka have many exciting options. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage lets children see elephants up close. Visiting the ancient city of Sigiriya with its impressive rock fortress is both educational and adventurous.

Beach towns like Bentota offer water sports and relaxation for all ages. The Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda gives families a chance to learn about sea turtle conservation.

What unique experiences are available in Colombo for tourists?

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, offers several unique experiences for visitors. The Pettah Floating Market provides a colourful shopping adventure with local goods and food stalls on the water.

Tourists can explore the historic Gangaramaya Temple or take a tuk-tuk tour through the city’s bustling streets. The National Museum of Colombo showcases the country’s rich history and cultural artefacts.

Which activities are considered must-dos when travelling to Sri Lanka in December?

December is an excellent time to visit Sri Lanka. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful beaches on the south and west coasts, as the weather is typically dry and sunny.

Whale watching off the coast of Mirissa is popular in December. Visiting the ancient city of Anuradhapura during this time allows tourists to experience pleasant temperatures while exploring the historic sites.

How can one spend 5 days in Sri Lanka to experience its highlights?

Day	Activities	Tips	What to Expect
1	– Explore Colombo’s markets – Visit temples in Colombo	– Wear comfortable shoes for walking – Dress modestly when visiting temples	– Beautiful sandy beaches – Opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing
2	– Visit the ancient city of Sigiriya – Climb the Sigiriya rock fortress	– Start early to avoid the heat – Wear sturdy shoes for climbing	– Stunning views from the top of the fortress – Ancient ruins and frescoes
3	– Tour a tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya	– Bring a light jacket as it can be cool – Sample different types of tea	– Lush green tea plantations – Insight into the tea-making process
4	– Go on a safari in Yala National Park	– Hire a reputable safari guide – Bring binoculars and a camera	– Chance to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife – Unique landscape of the park
5	– Relax on the beaches of Mirissa or Unawatuna	– Apply sunscreen and stay hydrated – Try local seafood dishes	– Beautiful sandy beaches – Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing

What are the essential travel tips, including do’s and don’ts, for visitors to Sri Lanka?

Visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s important to remove shoes before entering temples.

Travellers should be cautious about drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water instead. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services. It’s advisable to carry cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.