Sri Lanka has so much to offer it’s travelers despite being an island. The variety of places to see and things to do certainly suits everyone’s interests. From tea plantations and rolling hills around Ella to the ancient ruins scattered across the central plains, and the stunning surf breaks and curved sandy bays of the south coast, Sri Lanka has a little bit of everything. Sometimes, it could be overwhelming to try and plan a trip to this island nation with so much to cover in a short time.
So here are a list of things you could do while on your visit to Sri Lanka;
- Watching the sunrise from Little Adam’s Peak – This relatively short hike is the best way to soak up the incredible views surrounding Ella and the hills. This peak sits just outside of Ella town near the 98 Acres Resort and Ravana Zipline. The vantage point from the top offers a full panorama of Ella, including Ella Rock, and the surrounding valleys and tea plantations.
- Walk along the Nine Arch Bridge - The iconic landmark bridge in Ella, the Nine Arches Bridge, is definitely an Instagram fuelled attraction that has garnered a lot of attention. However, it’s still a very unique sight in Sri Lanka and is worth stopping by during your time in Ella.
- Completed in 1921, the large stone bridge spans 91 metres long and 25 metres high, and is also called the Bridge in the Sky, for its often moody setting amongst the foggy tea plantations. It’s definitely a photographers dream location, especially when you also catch the train travelling over the bridge (which happens several times a day).
- Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy - Kandy is the cultural capital of the country, known for its history, food and religious sites. The most famous (and important) attraction in Kandy is Sri Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors need to be dressed in fully covered clothes when visiting this pilgrimage site. There are several museums in its vicinity including the recently opened Ehelapola Wax Museum which would allow visitors to catch a glimpse of the country’s rich history.
- Climb Ambuluwawa Tower Near Kandy - One of the most incredible things to do in Sri Lanka is climbing the Ambuluwawa Tower, standout landmark near Kandy. It’s worth taking half a day from the city to visit this whimsical, spiral tower with panoramic views in Gampola.
- This 54 metre high tower sits on top of a mountain peak standing 3,567 metres above sea level. The tower is actually inside a multi-religious complex that is home to a Buddhist Temple, Hindu Temple, a Church, and a Mosque. But it is the tower that most come for.
- Spotting wildlife at National Parks – Sri Lanka is blessed with an abundance of wildlife and one of the must-visit attractions is to one of its national parks. Many visitors travel to Yala as it is known to have an abundance of leopards. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot this elusive species that often takes cover from the public. Visitors could also visit Wilpattu, Bundala, Kaudulla, Minneriya and several other national parks scattered around the island to spot elephants, bear and other animals in addition to leopards.
- Surfing in Weligama – One thing that you should never miss out while in Sri Lanka is it’s pristine beaches. Surf lessons could be an ideal choice for adventurous travelers who would want to brave the waves in Weligama. One advice is to visit during the season to avoid rough sea conditions. But our experienced surfers would certainly make it an experience to remember. After all, that suntan is just worth it!
- Visiting the Historic Galle Fort – A trip to Galle is never complete without a visit to the iconic Galle Fort. This attraction rich with an abundance of history also includes several boutiques to dine in, to buy souvenirs and enjoy the breathtaking views surrounding it.
- Hiriketiya and Mirissa – If you haven’t had enough of beach time then you could certainly explore some pristine beaches off Galle in Hiriketiya and Mirissa. There are several Instagram-worthy locations in Mirissa including the Coconut Tree Hill or in the backdrop of stilt fishermen who engage in their daily activities.
- Hiking Sinharaja Forest – This is solely for nature lovers who want to catch a glimpse of a UNESCO-World Heritage listed rainforest. It’s abundance of flora and fauna would certainly appeal to any nature lover who visits this paradise isle. Sinharaja Forest is also blessed with an abundance of waterfalls and scenic views which you wouldn’t want to miss. A piece of advice is that it is a rainforest and therefore rain is a constant factor that you would experience. So it’s best to go prepared!
- A tour of historical sites – Sri Lanka has a rich history that dates back to centuries. If you are a history buff, you could certainly opt to visit our historic locations in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla to catch a glimpse of how kings of yesteryear fought to save this island from colonial invasions. What is often missed are the temples and historic sites located in Pottuvil and Arugambay so perhaps they too could be added to the list of historic sites.
- Don’t miss out on the traditional Sri Lankan cuisine – Irrespective of where you go in Sri Lanka, there’s one thing you certainly shouldn’t miss. Omit the fast food and experience a range of culinary options that are unique to Sri Lanka. A traditional breakfast, a rice and curry meal for lunch, hoppers, pittu and a combination of cuisine for dinner are must haves while on your visit to Sri Lanka.
