Blog news
Emerald beaches, ancient cities, and abundant wildlife - Sri Lanka is a gem waiting to be discovered on our Sri Lanka tours. We're about to embark on an exciting journey, exploring this tropical paradise that's brimming with diverse culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes.
From the bustling streets of Colombo to the tranquil tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka offers something for every traveller. We'll dive into the best tours, hidden gems, and local favourites that make this island nation a must-visit destination. So, buckle up and get ready to be whisked away on an unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure.
We've curated distinct Sri Lanka tours that offer diverse experiences across this tropical paradise. Each highlights a unique aspect of this South Asian gem, enabling adventure-seekers to delve into its rich history, vibrant wildlife, and widespread cultural tapestries.
Sri Lanka tours, a kaleidoscope of experiences, unveil a new facet with every step. The country's diverse offerings range from immersing oneself in cultural heritage to reveling in the charm of tranquil nature escapes, and seeking heart-thumping adventure thrills.
Sri Lanka, often known as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', has a cultural heritage spanning over 2,000 years. Majestic ancient ruins symbolize Ceylon's bygone eras in cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. Located in the centre of the island, they are often called the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka and offer tangible evidence of a rich, thriving civilization, with the ancient city of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing as an epitome of architectural grandeur.
For instance, Sigiriya boasts its lion-shaped gateway and frescoes that date back to the 5th century. Succinctly, discovering the island's cultural heritage doesn't simply get visitors acquainted with the past, but leads them to appreciate the artistry, intellect, and determination that drove this prosperous civilization. You can visit this majestic place on the Kandy to Sigiriya day tour.
Anuradhapura, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, showcases the architectural marvels of the bygone era, consisting of giant stupas and well-preserved ruins, acting as a testament to the country's elaborate history.
Then there's Polonnaruwa, another historical city ornamented with ruins of royal palaces, Buddha statues, and ancient temples. Eloquently showing Sri Lanka's blend of rich culture and strikingly elaborate designs, these ancient sites tell stories of kingdoms that once ruled.
The Sacred City of Anuradhapura, the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, the Dambulla cave temples and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy do not just stop on our journey; they are portals to the past. Each site offers a profound insight into the Buddhist traditions and the architectural genius of ancient Ceylon.
You can also dive deep into Sri Lankan culture with a unique adventure and take on a Wadda camping tour in Mahiyanganaya.
Imagine cruising through the lush jungles of Yala or Wilpattu, where the wild Lankan elephants roam free and the elusive leopard prowls. A jeep safari in Sri Lanka promises thrilling encounters with a diverse array of fauna in their natural habitats.
The Minneriya National Park offers the spectacular 'Elephant Gathering', a sight to behold as herds of elephants come together. Whether it’s bird watching in Kumana or seeking the sloth bear in Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka escorted tours ensure you a front-row seat to the most spectacular wildlife show in Asia.
The Yala National Park, home to the densest population of leopards in the world, offers a real chance of sighting these elusive felines. With a blend of lush forest, grassland, and lagoons, it offers a dramatic landscape and a thrilling wildlife experience.
The Sinharaja Rainforest, a biodiversity hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage site, secures the island's natural legacy. It's the habitat of numerous endemic species, illustrating Ceylon's incredible biodiversity.
Observing Elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or bird-watching in Bundala National Park add more experiences to this nature's tapestry. It's an understatement to say that Sri Lanka's nature escapes invite us to connect with the Earth's heartbeat.
If you fancy another view on the Lankan wildlife and nature, we recommend the 7-day nature & wildlife tour in Sri Lanka.
The hill country of Sri Lanka is synonymous with tea. And there’s something undeniably romantic about winding through the misty hills of Sri Lanka's highlands.
From the charming streets of Kandy to the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, the country is lined with lush tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated by the colourful saris of tea pickers. The journey through these hills, especially the scenic train rides that connect these areas, provides panoramic views of the verdant landscape that are both soothing and mesmerizing.
The famous tea plantations often include historic factories where visitors can learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the world's finest teas.
We recommend to try our best-selling Hill country tour in Sri Lanka.
Beyond culture and nature, Sri Lanka's geographical diversity lends itself to an enviable trove of adventures.
The coastal regions of Sri Lanka offer a perfect escape with their beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. Places like Mirissa, Trincomalee, and Bentota are popular for their relaxed atmosphere and picturesque settings. These waters are also known for being one of the best places in the world for whale watching, where the migration of majestic blue whales can be observed, along with playful dolphins and other marine life.
Surfing the swells at Arugam Bay, diving shipwrecks and coral reefs at Hikkaduwa, or scaling the heights of Adam's Peak for stunning sunrise views, the choices are endless. Kitulgala, renowned for its rapid rivers, has become an epicentre for white-water rafting, providing an adrenaline rush for adventure enthusiasts. Kitesurfers take to the airs in Kalpitiya's gusty winds.
Out of many Sri Lanka beach tours in our portfolio, this 6-Day Beach XP Adventure cannot be beaten.
Immersing oneself in the island's breathtaking beauty becomes a memory of a lifetime. For this unforgettable experience, we've compiled a set of recommendations, detailing the preparation process, cultural norms, and safety concerns. These tips ensure seamless Sri Lanka tours that treasure in your memory for years to come.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka is a destination that offers something for everyone, from its rich cultural heritage to its natural beauty. Whether through a comprehensive tour package or a private, Sri Lanka escorted tour, a visit to Ceylon island promises to be an unforgettable experience.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you’re headed because the weather varies. The island has two monsoon seasons: Yala from May to July and Maha from October to January. But no worries—there's always a dry spot somewhere!
For beach vibes and surfing, hit the west and southwest coasts from December to March. Is East Coast more your style? April to September is prime time. Into culture? Places like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are cool year-round.
Are you keen on seeing whales or majestic elephants? Plan for December to April for whales and May to October for elephants. Just match your travel with the weather, and you’re good to go for a great Sri Lankan adventure!
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the local currency. While ATMs are plentiful in major cities and cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, carrying cash in rural areas is a must due to the prevalence of cash transactions. Currency exchange is easy at airports, banks, and major hotels, with 24/7 services available at Bandaranaike International Airport. Banks are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.
The exchange rate for the British Pound usually ranges from 235 to 245 LKR, influenced by factors like political and economic stability. As for currency regulations, you can bring in up to 20,000 LKR and unlimited foreign currency, though amounts over USD 15,000 must be declared.
In Sri Lanka, transportation comes in many flavours. Buses are everywhere, offering an extensive network across the country. You can choose between slower, cheaper government-run Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses and quicker private ones. For scenic views, especially in the hill country, trains are a great option. The route from Colombo to Ella via Kandy is stunning, but remember to book your seat early, especially in observation carriages.
For short trips within cities, tuk-tuks are handy but remember to agree on the fare upfront as most don't have meters. If you prefer driving, you can rent a car, with or without a driver, though be prepared for challenging traffic conditions. Bicycles offer a peaceful way to explore the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.
Choosing the right transport will enhance your experience in Sri Lanka, letting you enjoy the journey as much as the destinations.
Respecting local customs in Sri Lanka really enriches your travel experience. Start by greeting with the Sinhalese word 'Ayubowan,' which means "long life." This greeting is usually paired with clasped hands and a bow, showing respect right from the start.
When visiting the many Buddhist temples, always remove your shoes and hats, and dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees to honor religious traditions. Always use your right hand, or both hands, to give or receive items, like when paying for items in shops.
Don't expect everything to be punctual; 'Sri Lanka Time' means things often start a bit late, which lets you soak in the laid-back local lifestyle. Tipping is customary here too—around 10% in restaurants, hotel staff, and tour guides are appreciated.
Understanding these customs not only prevents cultural faux pas but also deepens your connection to this vibrant culture, making your trip to Sri Lanka memorable and respectful.
After exploring transportation and currency in Sri Lanka, let's dive into its vibrant culinary scene. Sri Lankan cuisine, rich in flavours and history as a spice hub, offers a delicious adventure.
Kottu Roti, a beloved street food, combines chopped roti, veggies, egg, and options of meat or cheese— a must-try for its spicy delight. At Colombo’s Ministry of Crab, located in the Old Dutch Hospital, you can savour the famous Lagoon crab, celebrated by CNN's 50 best foods list. For more local flavours, Upali's dishes out affordable, tasty staples like fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry) and coconut-rich pol sambol.
In Galle Fort, Fortaleza blends Sri Lankan and Western dishes in a Dutch colonial setting. Don't miss their unique jaggery ice cream. For tea lovers, places like Empire Cafe in Kandy and Tea Trails in the highlands offer Sri Lanka’s finest teas with local snacks and complimentary tea tastings.
Remember, cash is handy for street food and smaller spots, and a 10% tip for good service is customary.
Indulging in Sri Lankan food isn't just about eating; it’s about experiencing the culture and history through every bite.
Sri Lanka gets its nickname from its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. This includes cultural heritage sites like Sigiriya and nature escapes in Yala National Park.
February and March are the best months to visit Sri Lanka as these months generally offer the most favorable weather conditions. The entire island enjoys a dry, pleasant climate, making it ideal for exploring both the sandy beaches and the cultural sites.
Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka. Sinhala is predominantly spoken by the majority Sinhalese community, while Tamil is used by the Tamil minority. Both languages have rich literary traditions and are integral to the cultural identity of their respective speakers.
English is widely spoken across Sri Lanka, especially in major cities, tourist destinations, and by the younger population. It serves as a link language in government and business, making it a useful language for travellers to understand and communicate with locals.
The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, denoted as LKR. Visitors should be prepared to exchange their foreign currency for rupees upon arrival for use in local transactions, especially in smaller towns and rural areas where other currencies are not likely to be accepted.
Almost all foreign travellers to Sri Lanka need to obtain a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arrival, with a few exceptions. Nationals from Singapore, the Maldives, and Seychelles are among the few who are exempt from this requirement and can enter Sri Lanka without a visa for short stays. Tourists of most other nationalities can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online prior to their visit, which allows them to stay for up to 30 days. This is a straightforward process intended to facilitate easy entry into the country.
Wi-Fi is readily available in Sri Lanka in most urban areas, major hotels, and cafes, but access can vary greatly. In larger cities and tourist-friendly areas, internet access is generally reliable and fast, whereas, in rural or less developed areas, connectivity can be sporadic and slow.
It is not advisable to drink tap water in Sri Lanka due to varying water treatment standards across the country. Visitors should opt for bottled water, or ensure that tap water has been properly boiled or filtered before drinking to avoid potential health risks.
As we conclude our exploration of the island, it's clear that Sri Lanka tours offer an incredibly rich and diverse tapestry of experiences. From the lush, verdant tea plantations of the hill country to the historic splendours of ancient cities and the natural beauty of wildlife parks, Sri Lanka continuously proves itself as an unforgettable destination. Each journey here promises not just a holiday, but a deep dive into a vibrant culture, framed by some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or just in search of a peaceful retreat, Sri Lanka tours cater to all, ensuring every traveller takes home unique memories and a piece of this island's soul.
Blog news
