How to Plan a Memorable Holiday in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, just off the southeastern coast of India. With its rich culture, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, it's no surprise that this small island nation has become a popular destination for travellers. Here's a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

You need to decide when to visit. Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to mid-90s throughout the year.

The best time to visit depends on what you're looking to do. The dry season, which runs from December to March, is the best time to visit the beaches and go on wildlife safaris. The monsoon season, from May to September, is a great time to visit if you're looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, but just be prepared for some rain.

Accommodation

As for hotel accommodation in Sri Lanka, there’s a variety of options to choose from in Sri Lanka. You can stay at a luxury hotel or a guesthouse or even enjoy a homestay with a local family.

Things to do

With so many sights and activities to choose from, it can be challenging to fit everything in. One option is to join a guided tour, like the ones offered by Walkers Tours.

Here are a few must-see destinations that you should add to your list of places to visit:

Colombo: the capital of Sri Lanka, is a great place to start your trip. The city is vibrant and has a blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples. One temple you won't want to miss is the Gangaramaya Temple, which is a Buddhist temple that boasts an impressive collection of art and architecture. Another must-see spot is Galle Face Green, a popular destination for evening walks along the ocean.

Kandy: Kandy is a city located in the central hills of Sri Lanka and is renowned for its cultural significance and stunning natural beauty. One must-see attraction in Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth, a holy site that houses one of Buddha's teeth. The city is also home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, which boasts over 4000 species of plants and flowers.

Sigiriya: a must-see ancient fortress located in the Matale District, Sigiriya, is a popular destination for history enthusiasts. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning frescoes and breathtaking views from the top of the rock.

Galle: This is a beautiful city located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. It is known for its charming Dutch colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere. One of the must-see attractions in Galle is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases a blend of European influences.

Nuwara Eliya: Nestled in the central hills, Nuwara Eliya is often referred to as the "little England" of Sri Lanka due to its cool climate and stunning tea plantations. This popular destination offers visitors the opportunity to visit a local tea factory, where they can learn about the production process and sample some delicious tea.

Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is a fusion of various cultural and historical influences, including South Indian, Arabic, and Dutch, and is characterised by its use of a wide variety of spices, herbs, and coconut milk and oil.

Some of the must-try Sri Lankan dishes include:

• Rice and curry
• Kottu
• Hoppers
• String hoppers
• Samosas

Transport

Sri Lanka has a comprehensive transportation system that includes roads, railways, and airports. The most common methods of transportation in the country include buses, trains, and private vehicles.

Tuk-tuks and taxis can also be hailed on the street and are available 24/7. The fare is usually calculated according to the distance travelled and the time of day.