Posted by on 26 Apr 2021

Colombo

Discover Colombo, the beating heart and commercial capital of Sri Lanka, located on the west coast of the country. Due to its large harbour located at mouth of Kelani River, Colombo is known to merchants and traders 2,000 years ago.

Steeped in history, culture and multi ethnicity, Colombo is a mixture of old and new, featuring colonial-era buildings, luxurious hotels and high-rise office buildings, stunning Buddha temples and bustling street markets. Gain insight into the city’s diverse culture with a walking tour of the historic Fort and Pettah districts. Visit Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most notable temples of Colombo, featuring a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai and Chinese architecture. Discover Sri Lanka’s history at the National Museum. Enjoy an exciting tuk tuk ride around the city. After a long day, treat yourself with a kevum, an oil cake made with rice flour and deep-fried or aluwa, a pastry made from rice flour or potatoes with treacle, cashew nuts and cardamom, paired with some Ceylon tea.

Places to Visit

Fort – The central business and financial district of Colombo. It is also home to numerous offices, banks, government offices, historical buildings and hotels. Notable landmarks include the President’s House, Presidential Secretariat, Bank of Ceylon, World Trade Centre of Colombo, Colombo Stock Exchange, Old Colombo Lighthouse, Colombo Lighthouse, St. Peter’s Church, Old Colombo Dutch Hospital and Grand Oriental Hotel.
Pettah – A neighbourhood known for its market. Experience the colourful and bustling Pettah Market, a series of open-air markets and bazaars. Sample some savoury street food, exotic spices and buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Other significant landmarks include the Wolvendaal Church, Jami Ul-Afar Mosque, Khan Clock Tower, Columbia Dutch Museum, St. Anthony’s Church, Sri Muthu Vinayagar Swamy Temple, Old Kathiresan Temple and New Kathiresan Temple.
Galle Face Green – Stroll along this scenic, 5-hectare urban park located in the heart of the city and overlooking the Indian Ocean. It was initially used for horse racing dating back to early 1820s and in 1879, British expatriates introduced golf to Sri Lankans playing on the Galle Face Green. Today, it a popular rendezvous spot and destination for vendors, children, kite flyers and merrymakers.
National Museum – Known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, it is the largest museum in Sri Lanka. It was established on 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, a former British governor of Ceylon. This historic museum features art, carvings from Sri Lanka’s history including artefacts from the colonial period. It also houses the throne and crown of the Kandyan monarchs.
Gangaramaya Temple – Discover one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo. The temple features a mix of Sri Lankan, Indian, Thai and Chinese architecture. It serves as a place of Buddhist worship and centre of learning.
Dutch Period Museum – Step back in time and discover the history of the Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Located in Pettah, this museum was the formal residence of Thomas van Rhee, a Governor of Dutch Ceylon. It features artefacts such as ceramics, furniture and weaponry during the Dutch rule.

When to visit

Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation dictated by two alternating monsoon seasons. Planning ahead is highly advisable so you know which part of the country is dry during your visit. Nevertheless, it can be seen as an all year-round holiday destination because clear blue skies and sunny days can be enjoyed even during the wet season.

High Season (December to March)

The Hill Country and the west & south coast beaches are busiest and driest.
The Maha monsoon season (October to January) keeps the East, North and ancient cities wet.

Shoulder (April and from September to November)

April and September offer the best odds for good weather countrywide.
A good time to wander without a set schedule.

Low Season (May to August)

The Yala monsoon season (May to August) brings rain to the south and west coasts plus the Hill Country.
The weather in the North and East is best.

Jaffna & the North

Peaceful, languid, and unblemished by tourist footprint, the northern province is worlds apart from the kind of Sri Lanka you've grown to love. The northern realms march to the beat of their own drum, with sharp echoes of incredible Tamil heritage and traces of Hindu culture so estranged from the Sinhalese and Buddhist ways of the south.

The previously war-torn peninsula has emerged as an off-the-beaten destination, with its mysterious terrain opening up to revellers in search of rainbow-coloured Hindu temples, palmyra-fringed coastline, and friendly interactions with sari-clad women biking across the streets. While military presence is still felt, the ambiance is safe and relaxed as locals turn their attention to healing and reviving the culture and heritage of the north.

Reconstructed and reinstated, this region has made exploration a lot easier (and much safer). The previously required permits were scrapped after the 2015 elections and tourists are now able to visit much of the north including formerly off-limits places such as Mullaitivu which played a crucial role in the civil war. Thanks to major upgrades to the region's major highways, speedy road and rail connections have been made to ensure safe and comfortable transport across the booming province.

Far from its visage as a war-torn region, the northern province is now a booming destination offering plenty of unforgettable adventures for everyone. Dodge the crowd and head to Jaffna Peninsula with its slow-paced outer boroughs, sacred springs, swaying palmyra palms, and long stretch of coastline. The area is also known for incredible dolphin and whale watching experiences as well as for hot and crispy dosais, savory ulundu vadais, and the tongue twisting flavours of Odiyaal kool.

Here are some of the great things to do in Jaffna and the North:

Walk the tourist-free walls and ramparts of the ancient Jaffna Fort.
Explore the ancient and colourful Nallur Kandaswamy temple.
Soak up the sun in Casuarina Beach with its fine sand and gentle waves.
Discover colourful fishing boats and turquoise waters in Point Pedro.
Take the ferry to Nagadeepa Viharaya and Kovil - said to be the first place that Buddha visited in Sri Lanka.
Visit Dambakola Patuna, ancient port in the north of Jaffna.
Take a journey through the different isolated islands of Jaffna via causeways or ferry.
Visit Jaffna Public Library which became one of the biggest libraries in Asia, containing over 97,000 books and manuscripts in the early 1908s.

When to visit

February to September

February to September offers mostly dry and warm weather making it a good time to visit the north.
April is the driest and hottest month of the year so take caution when sightseeing during the hottest hours (11am-3pm).
Short and sharp showers tend to appear between May and June
The inter-monsoon sets in between July and September. Inter-monsoon is also a good time to travel as there's less rush and deals on accommodation are much better.

The Ancient Cities

Sri Lanka's famed cultural triangle is a treasure trove of temple remnants, lost cities, and sacred Buddhist sites and monuments. Entrenched at the center of the island, this area points at three great Sinhalese capitals, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura - from which the pinnacle of Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage is magnificently preserved.

Held dearly by pilgrims, laymen and the clergy (mostly Buddhist), as well as by locals and tourists, Sri Lanka's cultural heartland lies in north central plains surrounded by forests and outcrops. These plains are known as Rajarata or the King's Land where several kingdoms set up their first capitals and developed artistic and architectural pursuits. Eventually, the once-flourishing Sinhalese dynasties fell into ruin, with their crumbling temples and other tangible legacies slowly sinking into forest and jungles. Now a famous area with high universal value, this string of ancient cities rises from the depths of the forest, to claim the top spot in your Sri Lanka bucketlist.

Explore these UNESCO-listed treasures during your cultural jaunt in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya, the Lion Fortress

The rock citadel of Sigiriya was formed from a magma of an extinct volcano, standing 200 meters higher than the surrounding jungle. As one of the most visited attractions in Sri Lanka, this stunning complex remains accessible to visitors through a series of galleries and staircases rising from the mouth of the colossal lion serving as gateway to the fortress. Considered as one of the greatest examples of ancient urban planning, Sigiriya astonishes visitors with its extensive network of fortifications, gardens, ponds, canals, alleys and fountains adoring the remnants of a ruined palace.

Abhayagiri Dagoba in Anuradhapura

The ancient red-brick Buddhist temple stands 75m above the forest floor, providing a visually appealing spectacle against light woodland. A sight to behold, this colossal temple is constructed over a footprint of the Buddha and measures 106.6 meters in diameter at the widest point of the curve. It is one of the greatest constructions of the ancient world from which its historical, cultural and religious significance remains untouched by the passage of time.

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is the second oldest city on the island. This historic destination is highlighted by Brahmanic monuments from the Chola Dynasty and ruins of buildings, parks, and sanctuaries built by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century when the city was still in its golden days. Other structures of high importance include the gigantic statues of Buddha in Gal Vihara, the king’s Audience Hall, and the Parakrama Samudraya - the biggest antique man-made rainwater tank in Sri Lanka.

The Golden Temple of Dambulla

This monument is the biggest and the best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The sacred site has five cave sanctuaries containing about 150 magnificent Buddha statues and paintings. Among the five caves, the Maha Raja Viharaya is by far the most impressive one with each well decorated archway and extensive collection of the finest Buddhist paintings and structures.

When to visit

The dry months of January to March are the best time to visit Sri Lanka's famous cultural triangle as you can get around in comfort when days are warm and filled with sunshine. Temperatures are good enough for day tours around the northern plains with the hill country of Kandy providing a cooler respite.

The East

Endowed with epic landscapes and intriguing treasures, the island nation of Sri Lanka left the famous explorer Marco Polo entranced beyond words. If you're itching to experience the same kind of awe, try setting foot in Sri Lanka's uncharted east. The earthy local vibe of the fishing communities is something to behold, while the long stretch of coastline, hidden bays and white sand beaches are sure to put you on a trance. A little less developed, the allure of the East glistens with lots of sunshine, sea-oriented Muslim ways, gorgeous Hindu temples, crumbling colonial forts and vibrant markets.

The rebirth of the east

Sri Lanka's eastern province is undeniably beautiful, but years of war and turmoil, and the devastating effects of the 2004 tsunami left their mark on the area. Fired up by the longing for peace and stability - this east is slowly picking up the pieces and is gloriously succeeding. Renewed confidence is evident across the region, with its major towns Trincomalee and Batticaloa once again regaining life and commercial activities. The spectacular swathe of sand in Uppuveli and Nilaveli are impossible to ignore while Passekudah's wide, sweeping bay serves as a calm retreat to the discerning traveller. The surfing hotspot Arugam Bay is becoming popular in the international surfing community and it’s also the perfect base for trips to the Lahugala and Yala national parks and the remote forest hermitage at Kudimbigala. The national parks of Maduru Oya and Gal Oya are worth a visit and so is the lush countryside where elephants and other wildlife roam freely.

Below are some of the highlights of Eastern Sri Lanka.

The port city of Trincomalee

Trincomalee rests on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours. The ancient Buddhist temple is found in the premises of the 17th century Fort Frederick are located here. The grand Koneswaram Temple which stands on Swami Rock cliff on Gokarna bay which is famous for whale watching. The temple and pilgrimage site is framed by jaw-dropping scenery on all sides, with the massive statue of Shiva becoming the focal point.

Arugam Bay, the surfing hotspot

Surfers and sun-seekers flock to the gorgeous Arugam Bay for its famous point break, soft sand, and lowkey beach scene. Far removed from the brash aura of the west coast, Arugam is the perfect spot to enjoy the waves and get inspired by nature. It’s also a great starting point for trips to the Lahugala and Yala national parks and the remote forest hermitage at Kudimbigala.

The Uppuveli and Nilaveli beaches

Fresh seafood, local charm and cozy beach atmosphere make Uppuveli and Nilaveli the ideal spot for tranquil ocean adventures. A little rough on the edges, Uppuveli exudes earthy vibes with its long sandy beach and clear waters. Nilaveli Beach lies in the furthest north of Trinco, offering intimate sea adventures and access to Pigeon Island.

Pigeon Island National Park

More than just a nesting area for rock pigeons, this national park is also a tantalising haven for soft powdery white sands, glittering coral gardens, and hundreds of reef fish (including blacktip reef sharks) and turtles.

Kumana National Park

Less crowded than Yala National Park, Kumana offers a blissful zoo experience largely concentrated on avifauna. It’s home to large flocks of migratory waterfowl and wading birds which can be viewed through the watchtowers. Turtles, cobras, elephants and leopards can also be spotted here, along with lush vegetation including mangrove trees, kumbuk trees and the karan fern.

The amazing town of Ampara

Nestled on the countryside bordered by paddy fields, lakes and palm groves, the town of Ampara contains some of nature’s finest sights and experiences. You can enjoy mangrove ecotours (Pottuvil is the top spot), ride outrigger canoes across the lagoon, and potter around the wild and rich ecosystem in search of lizards, kingfishers, monkeys, birds and crocodiles.

When to visit

April to September

The eastern part of Sri Lanka comes into its own as the rest of the country is being battered by monsoonal rains. The best time to visit is from April to September when the weather is generally dry and rain showers are short. It can get very hot so bring lots of sunscreen and stay hydrated.

School term from January to April offers a quieter respite for travellers. Off-peak season falls on inter-monsoonal period when there's plenty of good deals and less crowd. It's a great time to visit if you don't mind the unpredictable rains.

The Hill Country

Experience nature’s splendour as you journey to the enchanting Hill Country of Sri Lanka. This region is a must-visit destination if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and be one with nature. The Hill Country’s landscape will leave you breathless from sprawling lush tea plantations, mountain ranges, cloud forests, rolling hills to cascading waterfalls.

Places to Visit

Adam’s Peak – Standing at 2,224 metres above sea level, the majestic Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s fourth highest mountain. It is known for the Sri Pada or the “sacred footprint” of Buddha near the summit. It is an important pilgrimage site by Buddhists, Hindus, some Muslims and Christians. The mountain can be accessed by 6 trails linked to major cities and towns by bus.
Nuwara Eliya – Discover the charming city of Nuwara Eliya, located on the central highlands of the country. At 1,868 metres above sea level with a cool climate, it also known for its tea production. Other tourist attractions aside from its verdant tea plantations include Victoria Park, Gregory Lake and the Hill Club. Cap off your day with an afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel.
Ella – Take one of the most scenic train rides to Ella, a charming town located in the Badulla district of Uva Province. It is covered with majestic mountains, cloud forests and endless tea plantations. Walk along the rails on the Nine Arch Bridge, the most photographed landmarks of the town. Hike up to the top of Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak. You can also take a short trip to Lipton’s Seat in Haputale. This is one of the most famous viewpoints in Sri Lanka, offering incredible views of tea plantations surrounded by mist in early morning.
Horton Plains National Park – Quench your thirst for adventure with a hike to Horton Plains National Park located in the central highlands. The park is known for its abundant flora and fauna, with many species found here endemic to the region. Other famous tourist attractions include the World’s End, a cliff with a drop of 2,000 metre, and Baker’s Falls, a waterfall formed by Belihul Oya.
Kandy – Explore Sri Lanka’s second largest city and cultural capital. It is located between several mountain ranges including the Hanthana and Knuckles mountain ranges. Kandy is also known as the home of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a Buddhist temple built within the Royal Palace complex which houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Royal Palace of Kandy, located to the north of the Temple of the Tooth. It was the royal residence of the Sri Lankan monarchy. Other notable landmarks include the Lankatilaka Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple featuring traditional Sinhalese architecture, Gadaladeniya Temple, also a Buddhist temple dating back in 14th century designed with Hindu artistic style, and the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, located 5.5. kilometres to the west of Kandy, known for its collection of orchids.
Udawalawe National Park – See Sri Lankan wildlife especially elephants roaming in their natural habitat. Located on the boundary of Sabaragumuwa and Uva Provinces, Udawalawe National park is one of the most visited parks in Sri Lanka.
Burduruwagala – Discover 1000-year-old rock-cut Buddha figures at this ancient Buddhist temple.

When to visit

High Season (December to March)

The Hill Country and the west & south coast beaches are busiest and driest.
The Maha monsoon season (October to January) keeps the East, North and ancient cities wet.

Shoulder (April and from September to November)

April and September offer the best odds for good weather countrywide.
A good time to wander without a set schedule.

Low Season (May to August)

The Yala monsoon season (May to August) brings rain to the south and west coasts plus the Hill Country.
The weather in the North and East is best.

The South

World-famous rope swings, fishermen perched on stilts, and the warm-water swells of the Indian Ocean, the southern province of Sri Lanka is a sensory overload - the kind that excites and ignites. And the allure doesn't stop there. Emerald forested hills hide rock temples and sacred sites, while the seafront oozes cultural fare with magnificent European architecture and South Asian traditions open for exploration.

The fabled Virgin White tea and the world's highest-quality cinnamon are found in the south, as well as the "world's most beautiful sunset rock." The first light of the day belongs to the elephants marching across the forest, while the leopards take charge of the night - when their predatory prowess is at its peak. Visiting a sea turtle hatchery is also a great way to experience the animal kingdom. You'll learn about the ways of these amazing creatures and you might even get chance to release some turtles into the sea.

The golden hour (early-mid morning when the sun is still rising, or shortly before sunset) is the perfect time to swing into the air on the famous palm rope swing. Surfing in the morning is also a great thing to do as the atmosphere is a bit calmer. The lazy afternoon is meant for getting a tan or just relaxing at the shore with toes in the sand and fresh coconut in hand. Cap off the night with a decent sundowner and some nightlife fun. The beaches here are lined with hipster cafes and bars offering eclectic night scene.

From ramshackle beach cafes to fine restaurants, to an extensive list of accommodation types and activities to choose from - the south of Sri Lanka has it all.

Some of the highlights of Southern Sri Lanka:

Unawatuna

This idyllic sweep of golden sand is protected by coral reefs, with the beachline framed by swaying coconut trees and a wooden headland with tiny coves lying on the west. In this coastal town you can find the most photographed beach in Sri Lanka, the perfectly 'Instagrammable' palm tree rope swing, a beautiful sunset rock, and a Buddhist shrine within jungle.

The south coast town of Mirissa

Bask in the golden sunset, stand on the Parrot rock, or enjoy amazing views from a coconut farm resting on a hilltop. Mirissa is also the best destination for whale and dolphin watching tours. Get upclose to the world's biggest animals during the whale watching season from November to April.

Weligama

Wedged along one of the biggest bays on the southern coastline of Sri Lanka, Weligama is famous for two things: surfing and stilt fishing. Weligama's legendary curls await surfers for much of the year, luring everyone wishing to ride on the warm-water swells of the azure Indian Ocean. If you need a break from surf, you could lend a hand to one of the local stilt fishermen in the village. Stilt fishing requires skill and balance and offer the most immersive way to experience the culture of Weligama. Sit on the vertical pole embedded into the seabed in shallow water then cast your rod. Feel the thrill as you get that first bite, perhaps, from a mackerel or spotted herring.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a wonderland for colourful birds, including the diminutive little bee-eaters and the open-billed stalks. This wetland sanctuary is also home to civets, giant squirrels, turtles, crocodiles and elephants. During winter, it shelters a great number of flamingo - up to 2000 have been spotted here at one time.

Yala National Park

See the animal kingdom in full glory at Yala, Sri Lanka's premier national park and one of Asia's finest sanctuaries for mammals. It is the second largest National Park in the tropical country and the most visited nature site because of the high density of leopards - its top draw. These menacing predators (Panthera Pardus Kotiya) prowl like lords of the jungle during the day, usually from January to July, offering visitors exciting photographic opportunities at a close range. Yala National Park is also home to painted storks, crocodiles, peacocks, monkeys, water buffalo, wild boar, spotted deer, sambar and golden jackal.

The beach town of Hiriketiya

Soak up the sun in this small horseshoe-shaped beach tucked away from the crowds. Surrounded by groves of coconut palms and sea grapes, this town lures you into its unique tropical charm with roti stands, samosa outlets and lots of ways to enjoy the azure waters.

The UNESCO Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications

Galle Fort is one of the greatest examples of a fortified city magnifying a rich blend of European architectural styles and South Asian traditions. It is located in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka and was built by the Portuguese in 1588. It was fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, turning it into one of the most important archeological, architectural and historic monuments of all time.

The lazy fishing town of Tangalle

Discover the stunning Mulkirigala rock temple, visit the Dondra Point, and explore the tranquil bays of Goyambooka, Medaketiya, Pallikkudawa and Medilla. Tangalle is also the home of Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary, one of the best places in the world to see marine turtles.

Handunugoda Tea Estate

Sitting on the hills of Koggala, this tea plantation offers tours and opportunities to sample over 25 varieties of tea. The plantation is owned by Herman Gunaratne, one of the main figures in Sri Lanka’s tea industry.

When to visit

Dry Season

The best time to visit the southern province is from December until March or April when there is least rain. The weather is decent beginning mid July up to the end of September with chances of rain showers in the afternoon or evening.

Monsoon Season

Prices are a bit lower in the rainy months of May, October and November. Between July and August, the weather tends to slightly improve but all throughout the monsoon season, you can still enjoy swimming as Sri Lanka's waters are protected from sharp waves, thanks to its incredible coral reef.

West Coast

Discover the diverse landscape of Sri Lanka’s west coast from the string of beaches of Negombo, Kalpitaya and Bentota, the bustling city of Colombo to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest national park. This region is the most developed and tourist oriented in the country. Watch the sunset or enjoy kite surfing at Browns Beach in Negombo. Discover the cultural treasures at the National Museum in Colombo. Observe an array of wildlife at Wilpattu National Park. Visit the Galapata Raja Temple, a 12th century Buddhist temple in Bentota.

Places to Visit

Colombo – Explore Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city. Visit the city’s cultural landmarks including the Colombo Fort, Galle Face Green, the National Museum, Pettah Market, Viharamadevi Park and more.
Negombo – Relax on the sandy beaches of Negombo, a major resort town located at the mouth of Negombo Lagoon. Other highlights you don’t want to miss include the Negombo Lagoon, Negombo Beach, Browns Beach, St. Mary’s Church. St. Sebastian’s Church and Angurukaramulla Temple.
Bentota – Located 64 kilometres south of Colombo and the southwestern coastal belt of Sri Lanka lies Bentota, a popular beach resort town known for its palm-fringed beaches. The Bento Beach is also ideal for water-related activities such as sailing, diving, snorkelling and deep-sea fishing. Other tourist spots in Bentota and surrounding areas to visit include the Brief Garden, Bentota Turtle Hatchery, Galapata Raj Temple, Cinnamon Island and Ambalangoda.
Kalpitiya – Discover one of Sri Lanka’s best-kept secret, Kalpitiya, known for its natural environment and diverse habitats from coastal plains to sand dune beaches. Take a cruise and watch hundreds of dolphins and whales swim alongside with your boat. Go bird watching at the Kalpitiya Lagoon or simply relax and watch the sun set at the Kalpitiya Beach.
Willpattu National Park – Observe Sri Lanka’s abundant wildlife at Willpattu National Park, the largest and one of the oldest national parks in the country. Get your camera ready as many animals roam around including Sri Lankan elephant, Sri Lankan leopards, sloth bears, sambhur, water buffalo and spotted deer and many more.
Hikkaduwa – Retreat to the vibrant coastal town of Hikkaduwa, 98 kilometres away from Colombo. It is famous for its sandy beaches, strong surf and beautiful coral sanctuary. Highlights include the Hikkaduwa Beach, Narigama Beach, Hikkaduwa Coral Reef and Sea Turtle Hatchery & Rescue Centre.

When to visit

High Season (December to March)

The Hill Country and the west & south coast beaches are busiest and driest.
The Maha monsoon season (October to January) keeps the East, North and ancient cities wet.

Shoulder (April and from September to November)