18-02-2025
Top Experiences in Sri Lanka That Belong on Every Traveler’s Itinerary
From the iconic Blue Train to wild jungle safaris, Sri Lanka is a destination that stirs the soul. This island paradise offers stunning coastlines, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences at every turn. While tourist visas for US travelers are no longer free, the process is still quick and simple through Sri Lanka’s online ETA system. Ready to plan your trip? Here’s what you must absolutely experience in Sri Lanka.
Ride on the Famous Blue Train from Kandy to Ella
If you’ve ever dreamed of that perfect Instagram travel shot, hop on Sri Lanka’s famous blue train from Kandy to Ella (or Nanu Oya) to experience a relaxing train ride with breathtaking views. Picture yourself hanging out of the open train doors, wind in your hair, as you glide past lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and epic waterfalls.
Why you can’t miss this:
- Most Instagrammable train ride in the world
- Epic chill vibes & breathtaking scenery
- Completely hassle-free as your reserved tickets are delivered to your hotel a day before the trip
Hop on to a Tuk-Tuk for an Adventurous Ride
Experience Sri Lanka’s capital – Colombo like a true local, zipping through the city’s bustling streets in your own private tuk-tuk in this thrilling half-day adventure. Your friendly driver takes you on an unforgettable journey, revealing all the hidden spots in Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital.
Trip Highlights
- World Trade Center: Admire colonial-era architecture
- Pettah Market: Experience Colombo’s lively markets and the stunning Red Mosque
- Wolvendaal Church: Visit this 360-year-old Dutch colonial-era church and its tombstones
- Sri Kaileshwarm Kovil: This Hindu temple holds great cultural significance
- Independence Square: Stand where Sri Lanka declared its freedom in 1948 ‘
- Gem Museum & Tea Factory: Learn about the gems and savor pure Ceylon tea
- Gangaramaya Temple & Bera Lake: Explore a stunning Buddhist temple and a lake nearby
Book this tour and explore Colombo’s hidden gems in the most exciting way possible.
Explore Breathtaking UNESCO Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka
Embark on a fascinating journey to experience Sri Lanka’s rich history, visiting some of the country’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites and cultural landmarks.—
Trip Highlights
- Sri Muthumariamman Temple: A Hindu masterpiece with 1,008 statues
- Dambulla Cave Temple: A World Heritage site, it is one of the largest and best-preserved cave temple complexes in Sri Lanka with ancient murals and Buddha statues, dating back centuries
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb this 5th-century palace for stunning views and incredible frescoes
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Wander through the Archaeological Museum to step back in time and discover Polonnaruwa ruins, Sri Lanka’s second ancient kingdom, featuring majestic palaces, temples, and the iconic Gala Vihara Buddha statues
Book this tour to witness best of Sri Lanka’s ancient architecture and rich heritage.
Take an Epic Day-Trip Along Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast
If you’re all about beaches, adventure, and Insta-worthy moments, this is your trip.
Trip Highlights
- Galle Dutch Fort: Step back in time at this UNESCO-listed colonial fort, perfect for exploring cobblestone streets, trendy cafés, and stunning ocean views
- Ambalangoda Mask Factory: Try on handmade masks for a fun photo
- Turtle Hatchery: Meet baby turtles & learn about conservation
- Maduganga River Boat Safari: Cruise through lush mangrove forests and spot some tropical animals
- Japanese Peace Pagoda: A peaceful hilltop spot with breathtaking sunset views over the ocean
This experience in Sri Lanka is all about sunshine, ocean breezes & unforgettable vibes. Book this tour.
Spot a Leopard at Yala National Park
If you’ve ever wanted to see a leopard in the wild, this is the place! Yala National Park is world-famous for its high density of leopards. With expert guides leading the way, ride through the rugged terrain of the park in a comfortable, open-air safari jeep that ensures the best possible views of wildlife.
Trip Highlights
- Encounter Diverse Wildlife: Beyond leopards, Yala is home to an incredible variety of animals and birds. From lagoons and dense forests to open grasslands and rocky outcrops, learn about native flora and fauna
- Savor Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine: Have breakfast and lunch in the park while soaking in the natural beauty around
Book your Yala safari adventure and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Sri Lanka is Calling!
Which of these experiences in Sri Lanka is your favorite – chasing waterfalls, spotting leopards, riding Insta-famous trains, or indulging in cultural wonders? Whatever be your choice, now is the best time to plan your trip to this island country and explore the magic of this island paradise.
FAQs on Travel to Sri Lanka
How many days is required to tour Sri Lanka?
If you’re short on time, a 7-day itinerary can cover key experiences in Sri Lanka in regions like Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, and either Ella or the South Coast, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. A 10-day itinerary offers a more relaxed journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, scenic hill country, and beautiful beaches.
When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination with two monsoon seasons.
- December to April: Perfect for the South & West Coasts (Galle, Mirissa, Bentota) and the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Kandy).
- May to September: Ideal for the East Coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) and Northern regions.
Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?
Yes, like most destinations, travelers should stay informed and take standard safety precautions, but Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists.
What are some souvenirs to pick from Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is known for its Ceylon tea, aromatic spices, elephant-themed souvenirs and vibrant batik textiles. Other mementos you can pick on your trip are:
- Handcrafted Raksha masks & batik textiles
- Mini-Buddha statues
- Sapphires & other gemstones from the island’s famous mines
Which are the must-try traditional Sri Lankan dishes?
Among the experiences in Sri Lanka, a food tour is a must. Food is quite affordable in Sri Lanka. Here are a few dishes you can try on your trip to this country:
Gotu Kola Salad: A fresh and healthy herbal dish
Hoppers (Appam) with Pol Sambol: a crispy, bowl-shaped pancake with spicy coconut relish
Kottu Roti: A famous street food, that is a stir-fry of shredded roti, veggies, and meat
Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced dish of rice, meat, and sambol, wrapped in a banana leaf
Kithul Jaggery: A natural, caramel-like sweet treat
Where to stay in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers a variety of stays to fit every budget, from charming homestays and beachfront resorts to luxury hotels. Colombo and Kandy have fantastic accommodation options to suit the budget of every traveler. Check them out!
Are there nonstop flights to Sri Lanka from the US?
No, presently there are no direct flights to Sri Lanka from the US. However, you can make your journey more exciting by combining a trip to India and then flying IndiGo at an affordable rate. IndiGo offers affordable and frequent nonstop flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore to Colombo, making it easy to explore both destinations in one trip, all without breaking the bank. Book your flights now on flyingcarpet.travel