Tour Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Guide

On the tropical island of Sri Lanka you will find wide coastlines with sandy beaches and clear blue water. If you move inland you will also encounter mountainous areas, tea plantations and tropical forests with wild animals. This country offers a beautiful combination of different rural areas and is highly recommended for nature lovers.

1. Features Sri Lanka

In this article you will find all the information you need when you go on a trip through Sri Lanka.

2. Tips Sri Lanka tour

• It's inappropriate to take a picture with your back to a Buddha statue.
• If you're going to look for religious places, you need to be dressed appropriately. That means sitting with shoulders and legs covered.
• As a tourist you pay more for the entrance of sights than the locals. At a national park it can happen that the price for a local is €0.25 while you have to pay €25.
• You can't drink the water from the tap in Sri Lanka. So buy bottles of mineral water. Also pay attention to washing fruit and vegetables.
• It's customary to tip in Sri Lanka. Not only to waiters, but also to hotel staff and guides for example.

3. Preparations for a round trip through Sri Lanka

If you travel to Sri Lanka, you will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in the country. You also need a visa. You can apply for an electronic visa at least 5 working days before departure. A visa for 30 days costs 35USD. Upon arrival in the country, customs may ask you for a return or onward ticket. So make sure you have this at hand. A recent bank statement with a minimum positive balance of €250 and a yellow fever vaccination certificate can also be requested if you enter the country from a fever area.

3.1. Vaccinations

Vaccinations against DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio), typhoid fever and Hepatitis A are recommended for your tour of Sri Lanka. Personalized vaccinations may also be required, depending on your situation. During a personal consultation you can go through all this. It is advisable to make an appointment at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure at a vaccination office near you. You can discuss your itinerary and a counsellor can advise you which specific vaccinations you need. The most common vaccinations can be set right away.

The cost of vaccinations varies per location and vaccination agency. For an intake interview including a vaccination booklet you pay an average of €24. A vaccination against DTP costs an average of €29. You will pay around €40 for the vaccination against typhoid fever and an average of €55 for Hepatitis A. Don't forget to check your insurance policy, as (additional) insurances can cover the costs for vaccinations.

4. Safe travel to Sri Lanka

If you are going to make a trip to Sri Lanka it is good to check in advance at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs whether there are any security risks for the country. The security risks can be different from what you are used to. In the north and east of the country you cannot leave the main road, as there are still mines around military bases. Throughout the country there can be unexpected demonstrations that can lead to violence. Therefore, avoid them, like big crowds. And be vigilant in crowded places. Furthermore, in Sri Lanka, as worldwide, there is an increased risk of terrorist attacks. Always follow the instructions of the local authorities. And follow the news in the (local) media to stay up to date.

A rise in the number of robberies and assaults in the country is noted. Be careful, especially if you're travelling alone as a woman. In places where many tourists gather, such as the beaches in the south of the country, you have to be extra careful. We would like to share some tips and points of attention for a safe trip through Sri Lanka:

• You'd best not go out on the street after sunset.
• Avoid travelling after sunset.
• Don't walk down the street and was always wary of robberies, for example.
• Avoid the slums.
• If you're the victim of a robbery, don't resist. Surrender your possessions because resistance often leads to (more) violence.

5. Best travel time for a round trip through Sri Lanka

With average temperatures of 25 to 30 degrees throughout the year, Sri Lanka has a tropical climate. In the mountains, however, temperatures are slightly lower with averages of 15 to 20 degrees. Sri Lanka has several seasons - there is a dry season and a rainy season. The rain travels over the country during these periods. In general it can be said that there is a rainy season from May to August. In this period the rain falls mainly in the (south) west of the country. In the northeast it rains mainly from October to January.

The best travel time for Sri Lanka are the months December - March. This way you avoid the rainy season. If you specifically want to visit the east of the country, it is best to go in February and March to avoid the rainy season. Keep in mind that floods can occur during the rainy season. If you travel during this period, it is advisable to follow the news and check the situation at your accommodation. Of course, the rainy season is not exact either. It can also suddenly rain during the dry season. But because the rain travels over the island in different periods, you can actually find a beach all year round where it is lovely to stay.

More than that, it is good to know that there is a danger of murmurs in the sea along the entire coast. These are the currents that draw swimmers and water sports enthusiasts away from the beach. Look closely at the flags on the beach. Since flags are not used everywhere, it doesn't mean that if you don't see a flag, the situation is safe. Ask where it is safe to swim or practise your watersports.

6. Transport to and in Sri Lanka

In about 12 hours you fly from Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Sri Lanka. This includes one transfer. Once you arrive in Sri Lanka you will notice that there are actually no domestic flights. You will be able to use public transport here.

6.1. By train

In Sri Lanka you'll find railroads all over the country. There are three main routes: along the coast, through the heart of the island and the north. Keep in mind that trains do not always run on time. There are three different classes of tickets on offer. The first class has air conditioning, the second class lets you rest on folding beds and the third class is cheap but overcrowded.

6.2. Bus

You can also choose the bus that has a network that covers the whole country. There are private buses and buses from the Central Transport Board (CTB). The bus is often a little less comfortable than the train, but you can get anywhere. Since buses can often only run 50 kilometers per hour, travel times are long.

6.3. Taxi / tuktuk

Other ways to get around are by taxi or tuktuk. The taxis often work with the meter and are a good choice for long journeys. For short distances you can also opt for a tuktuk. These are cheap, although you have to sublet a price in advance.

6.4. Car with driver

You can also rent a car (with driver). It is not recommended to drive yourself if you are not used to the chaotic road traffic in the country, where traffic rules do not seem to exist. Renting a car with driver is often even cheaper than just renting a car.

7. Sights of Sri Lanka

7.1. Mihintale

In the north of the country lies Mihintale. This is a place of pilgrimage where you can see various religious monuments and abandoned structures. According to the population it is on this mountain top that the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa met and marked the start of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. You can climb the hill on foot or go up a part by car. At the end of the climb you will come to a large platform where you can enjoy beautiful views. Also you will immediately notice the big white stupa Maha Seya. This has a diameter of no less than 41 meters on the mountain hill. You will also come across a large white Buddha statue.

Please make sure you're dressed appropriately when visiting Mihintale. That means covering your knees and shoulders. You'll also have to find your shoes or slippers at the end of the stairs before entering the platform. Bring socks if you don't want to walk around barefoot.

7.2. Hurulu eco park

At just over an hour from Mihintale you can visit the Hurulu Eco park, which is located in the Hurulu Forest Reserve. You can make several jeep safaris here. This nature park is an important habitat for the Sri Lanka elephant. This animal is known for its migratory behavior which takes place especially in the dry season in the forests around the area. You have a great chance to come face to face with these creatures in this park. People also live in the reserve, only there is no registration of the number. However, forest clearing and the expansion of human settlements have led to clashes between humans and elephants.

7.3. Sigiriya: the ancient rock fortress

If there is one place of interest you should not miss, it is Sigiriya. The locals refer to it as the eighth wonder of the world. On a rocky plateau at 370 meters above sea level you can visit an old palace and fortress. You'll find this rock in the middle of the island. The rock plateau is formed by magna from a volcano and is 200 meters higher than the surrounding jungle.

7.4. Pidurangala rock

If you are looking for an alternative to the, sometimes very busy, Sigiriya rock, you can climb the nearby Pidurangala rock. According to some, this rock is more worthwhile. And from here you have a view on Sigiriya. And of course the rest of the green surroundings. In about an hour you walk to the top. Keep in mind that the path might not be clear everywhere, red arrows indicate the way. Or just follow the other people walking up. The road to the top runs through an impressive area of boulders and trees. And along the way you'll come across several Buddha statues, including a reclining Buddha that is partly made of bricks. The last part of the way you will have to climb a bit, because this is where the path ends.

7.5. Golden Temple of Dambulla

Dambulla is the largest and best-preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka. In this Buddhist complex you will find more than 80 caves with statues and murals of Hindu gods. You should definitely visit the 'Cave of the Divine King' which is filled by a reclining Buddha of up to 15 meters long. Another cave, the "Cave of the Great Kings" is the largest cave you can visit. Here you will find 56 life-sized statues of Hindu gods.

7.6. Kandy

In the middle of Sri Lanka, in a valley, lies the town of Kandy. This is a fairly large city for this country and offers plenty of sights including several temples. The city has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988. In the city you can take a walk around Kandy Lake. In the middle of the lake is an island. This is said to have been used by the harem of the king. At Kandy Lake you not only enjoy the lake, but also the local life. And from here you can already see the 27 meters high Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue. This is a religious monument in Sri Lanka. The statue stands on a mountain from where you have a fantastic view over the city. From Kandy you can take the train to Ella. This is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the country.

7.7. Temple of the sacred tooth relic

In Kandy you will find the Temple of the sacred tooth relic. This Buddhist temple is also called Sri Dalada Maligawa. You will find this temple on the complex with the royal palace. And here the 'relic of the tooth of Buddha' is exhibited. This is a relic of the tooth of Buddha which is venerated in the country. The relic has played an important role in local politics since ancient times. It is believed that whoever owns the relic may rule the country.

This temple is one of the holiest shrines in the Buddhist world. Rituals are still performed daily in the temple. Three times a day a service takes place and once a week sacrifices are made out of respect for the sacred tooth relic. Because the temple is still actively used by the locals, there is a lot to see and see here.

7.8. Royal Botanical Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are just a few miles from Kandy. This botanic garden is the largest in Sri Lanka and is known for its collection of orchids. You will find more than 4,000 different species of plants here, including orchids, medical plants and palm trees. In the botanical garden you will find, among others, the Orchid House. Here you can enjoy an exhibition of exotic flowers and plants, including the largest orchid in the world. This contains flowers of up to 2.5 metres. You will also find a spice garden here. This contains a large collection of cinnamon, which is the most important spice exported from this country. You will also find pepper, which is the most popular spice in the world.

7.9. Nuwara Eliya

In the centre of Sri Lanka lies Nuwara Eliya. This place is also known as the small England of the country, as it was founded during the British colonial period. The city lies at the foot of Pidurutalagala and is surrounded by tea plantations. If you take the train from the town of Kandy to Ella, this place is about halfway along the route. So you can easily make a stop here.

What will stand out about Nuwara Eliya is that the climate is different from the rest of the country. It's a lot cooler there. This makes it a perfect environment for growing tea. So during a stay in this town you should definitely take a walk through the tea plantations. And visit one of the many tea factories. During a walk you can also come across several waterfalls.

7.10. Pidurangalu

Pidurangalu is with over 2,500 meters the highest mountain in the country. The summit is also the highest point of the country. From different parts in the middle of the country you will be able to see it. The mountain is situated in a wooded area. Unfortunately, the mountain is not open to the public for most of the year. However, during certain periods you can apply for an access pass to drive your car to the top. Climbing the mountain on foot is forbidden. If you are lucky enough to drive a car over the mountain, you will enjoy the beautiful nature full of colorful trees with plants and a magnificent view.

[penke text=Good to know! The summit is marked as an 'ultra-high safety zone' and is strictly forbidden. It is protected by a military base. If you drive a car over Pidurangala, you are definitely not allowed to get off.

7.11. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is located on the Indian Ocean on the southeast coast of the country. This place is especially well known by surfers as you will find good quality waves here. However, the local beaches, lagoons and historic temples also make this place worth a visit if you don't come to surf. Enjoy a day at the beach or go shopping at the local shops for souvenirs. Arugam Bay is located to one of the larger nature reserves of the country. If you are going to explore the area, it is advisable to watch out for animals such as crocodiles and elephants. You can also make a Lagoon safari in which you go looking for the animals.

7.12. Little Adam's peak

You can climb Little Adam's peak from the village of Ella. Along the way you'll enjoy tea plantations and walk through a hilly landscape. Slowly the hills give way to mountains and you'll see beautiful views over the valley and mountains on the other side. The climb takes some effort, but you'll be rewarded for this as well. Once you've arrived at Little Adam's peak, you probably don't want to leave. You can continue to enjoy the views, the nature with its impressive mountains and green hills and the feeling of freedom you feel here.

7.13. Ella Rock

More south in the country you'll find Ella Rock. If you like nature and hiking then you've come to the right place. You walk through beautiful surroundings. And along the way you'll come across several viewpoints that offer fantastic views over the valley and Little Adam's peak.

Don't forget that the trek for this area is heavier than Little Adam's peak. However, if you are in good condition, the ride is normally not too heavy. You walk mostly flat or slightly uphill. There is one steep part, but this is only a few hundred meters. In principle you can do the hike without a guide, but you will need a map on your mobile phone to find the route. Once you've arrived at Ella Rock it's definitely worthwhile to walk a few hundred meters to a lookout point. From here you can enjoy a beautiful view.

7.14. Lipton's seat

Lipton's seat is about an hour and a half south of Ella. This is a viewpoint that offers you one of the most beautiful views in Sri Lanka. You can take the road there on foot or by car. If you walk the last part, you will notice that it is slightly uphill. However, you enjoy a view over tea plantations. You will be surrounded by tea. Once at the top it almost looks like you are standing above the clouds. Enjoy the 360 degree view over the surroundings and the tea plantations.

This vantage point is named after Sir Thomas J. Lipton who started his tea empire here. His statue is at the top on a bench, so you can take a picture with him. To prevent that it's too foggy or cloudy to see anything, it's advisable to make the trip early in the morning.

7.15. Udawalawe national park

If you want to visit a national park in Sri Lanka, the Udawalawe national park is highly recommended. This protected area is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is an important habitat for water birds. If you are lucky you may encounter herds of elephants, crocodiles and deer. The national park is mainly flat, although you will also come across some hilly parts. Enjoy a safari through the park, drive a jeep through nature and see all the wildlife with your own eyes. If you are a real birdwatcher, you can also take a special safari that focuses on seeing birds. The Udawalawe elephant transit home is located in the national park. This is a center that accommodates baby orphan elephants.

7.16. Bentota beach

Do you also want to relax on the beach during your tour of Sri Lanka? Then you should go to Bentota. Here you will find a wide sandy beach, a sea to take a dive and entertainment. Water sports enthusiasts can also indulge themselves here. Surfing, snorkeling, diving, water skiing and deep water fishing are just a few of the activities on offer. There are plenty of luxury hotels here to stay at with the most extensive facilities. Pay attention to the flags on the beach. You may come across a red flag because of the strong currents in the sea.

7.17. Yala National Park

In the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka lies the Yala National Park. This park borders the Indian Ocean and includes lagoons, forests, scrub and grasslands. By the way, this park is the land of leopards. The amount of leopards here is much higher than in the rest of the world and they are the rulers of this jungle.

In addition to leopards, you will also find elephants, sloth bears, jackals, peacocks and, for example, crocodiles. The best time to visit the park is between February and July. That's when the water level is low, which brings the animals out into the open. You can book a half day safari, a day safari or stay overnight in the park and enjoy the wildlife for several days.

7.18. Unawatuna

The seaside resort of Unawatuna is located on the southwest coast of the country. This is where you go if you are looking for beautiful beaches dotted with palm trees. Go swimming or surfing in the bay or explore the coral reef while snorkeling or diving. You can very well combine a visit to this coastal town with a visit to other coastal towns in the region.

If you do not only want to enjoy the beach, but also culture, you can visit the Buddhist temple Peace Pagoda. This beautiful temple is built in Japanese style and if you walk up you will enjoy a view over the ocean. The most famous street of Unawtuna is Yaddehimulla Road. Here you can enjoy a drink in one of the bars or go for a delicious breakfast. The prices are a bit higher here and there is also quite a lot of traffic.

8. Book a roundtrip to Sri Lanka: compare accommodations and providers

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