Sri Lanka Travel Guide 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka Travel Guide 🇱🇰
Trek&Tally
Discover the beauty of Sri Lanka, an island nation rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes. From lush tea plantations to pristine beaches, ancient temples, and bustling markets, Sri Lanka offers diverse experiences for every traveler. Whether you're exploring wildlife in national parks, hiking through misty highlands, or soaking in the vibrant coastal culture, this guide will help you navigate Sri Lanka’s must-see destinations, budget-friendly tips, and hidden gems. Perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike!
For more Sri Lanka travel destinations, check out the Trek&Tally YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Gwh1q5TK6s
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Attractions
Sigiriya Lion Rock
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Climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the breathtaking views, ancient frescoes, and lush gardens surrounding this iconic landmark.
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Sri Dalada Maligawa
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Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world, housing a relic of the Buddha's tooth. Explore the temple’s intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
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Yala National Park
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Embark on a safari in Yala National Park, renowned for its leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife. It's one of the best places in Sri Lanka to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
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Galle Dutch Fort
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Stroll through the charming streets of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the colonial architecture, boutique shops, and scenic views along the coastal walls.
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Nine Arches Bridge
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Take in the beauty of Ella, including the famous Nine Arches Bridge, surrounded by tea plantations and rolling hills. Don’t miss a hike to Ella Rock for even more spectacular views.
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Sri Pada / Adam's Peak
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Hike up Adam's Peak, a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Reach the summit to catch the magical sunrise and enjoy panoramic views.
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Mirissa Beach
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Relax on the beautiful Mirissa Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s best coastal destinations, famous for its golden sands, whale-watching tours, and chilled-out vibes.
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City
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Explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO site, where you’ll find well-preserved temples, statues, and palaces from Sri Lanka’s rich history.
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Nuwara Eliya
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Discover the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England," where you can tour tea factories, enjoy scenic views, and take in the cool mountain air.
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Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
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Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can see rescued elephants up close, watch them bathe in the river, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these gentle giants.
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Where to Stay?
Luxury Accomodations
Cape Weligama - Relais & Chateaux
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A stunning resort perched on cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering private villas, infinity pools, and world-class dining. Ideal for beach lovers and those seeking relaxation.
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Ceylon Tea Trails - Norwood Bungalow
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A collection of lavish colonial-era tea bungalows offering luxurious accommodations with butler service in Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea country.
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Amanwella
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A beachfront luxury retreat surrounded by coconut groves and golden sands, offering unparalleled privacy, personalized service, and a tranquil setting.
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Cinnamon Bentota Beach
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Located along the golden sands of Bentota, this 5-star luxury resort is perfect for a tranquil beach escape. The hotel offers elegant rooms, water sports, a luxurious spa, and several dining options, providing a combination of relaxation and adventure.
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Uga Ulagalla
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A boutique luxury resort set in a 150-year-old mansion, Uga Ulagalla offers private villas with plunge pools in a lush natural setting. It combines modern amenities with eco-friendly practices, offering activities like horseback riding and archery, along with fine dining and a spa.
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Moderate Accomodations
Jetwing Lake
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A beautiful eco-friendly hotel located near Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock. It offers modern amenities, a great infinity pool, and is perfect for exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.
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The Kandy House
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This historic, boutique property offers colonial charm and personalized service, perfect for those seeking comfort and elegance in the hills of Kandy.
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Heritance Kandalama
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This eco-friendly hotel, designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, is seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings, offering stunning views of the Sigiriya Rock and the nearby lake. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a unique, nature-inspired stay while exploring Sri Lanka's cultural sites, with modern amenities and excellent service.
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Jetwing St. Andrews
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Set in the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya, this colonial-era hotel offers cozy, comfortable rooms with old-world charm. Surrounded by tea plantations, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat with access to hiking, golfing, and tea tours.
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Radisson Hotel Colombo
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A trendy hotel located in the heart of Colombo with modern amenities and stylish decor. Radisson Colombo offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, comfortable accommodations, and a rooftop infinity pool and bar, making it perfect for both leisure and business travelers.
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Budget Accomodations
Hangover Hostels Ella
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A popular backpacker-friendly hostel chain offering clean, budget-friendly accommodations in key tourist areas with a fun social vibe and communal spaces. Also have locations in Mirissa and Colombo.
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CityRest Fort
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Located in the heart of Colombo, CityRest Fort offers budget rooms with all essential amenities. It's perfect for travelers looking for affordable accommodations with easy access to the city’s attractions.
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The Sandhya
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A chic, budget beachfront boutique hotel with affordable rates. It's ideal for surf enthusiasts and those who want a relaxing stay on the southern coast without breaking the bank.
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Mirissa Beach Inn
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Located just a short walk from the famous Mirissa Beach, this budget-friendly guesthouse offers clean, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers looking to enjoy the beach, whale watching, and nearby restaurants without breaking the bank.
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Kandy City Hostel 76
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A popular budget option in the cultural city of Kandy, this hostel provides both dormitory and private room options. It’s known for its friendly staff, social atmosphere, and close proximity to attractions like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
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Adventures
Take a whirlwind tour in Sri Lanka, throw in a cruise on a traditional dhoni boat and beach time in the Maldives, and mix together for good vibes and great memories. You'll cross white sand beaches, snorkel amongst spectacular corals, discover beautiful ruins, and so much more. Join this adventure with a group of like-minded travellers and you'll head home with some new friends and new perspectives.
Now's the time to explore Sri Lanka on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Want to load up on culture on a backpacker's budget? This whirlwind 12-day tour of central and southern Sri Lanka is just the ticket. Discover beautiful ruins, hike through tea plantations, tour a spice garden, and then chill out on Hikkaduwa Beach. Explore Sri Lanka with a group of like-minded travellers and you'll head home with some new friends and new perspectives.
This 14-day combo trip brings together the best of Sri Lanka's cultural highlights and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sail the islands of the Maldives aboard a dhoni boat. Experience a safari in Udawalawe National Park, discover cultural treasures of Negombo and Kandy, and then spend an entire week cruising from one tiny and perfect atoll island to another, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and stretching out on blazing white-sand beaches. From culture to paradise, this tour's got it all.
For most travellers, Sri Lanka has been off the map for too long. Well, it's back. Discover the vibrant colours, diverse cultures, and swaying palm trees of this tropical jewel. Explore tea plantations and rock fortresses on this 14-day tour, which is designed to please. This tour is about more than just beaches and stunning views; it's about the inspiring people you'll meet along the way.
Now's the time to explore India on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Embrace the the hectic pace of Delhi before balancing it out with the beaches of Goa in the first leg of this epic subcontinental journey. Then, finish it off in the southern half of Sri Lanka, a culture-loving backpacker’s dream. Here you’ll discover beautiful ruins, hike through tea plantations, and chill out on Hikkaduwa Beach. And the best part? You’ll do it all with travellers of a similar age and state of mind.
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Where to Eat?
Ministry of Crab
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A must-visit for seafood lovers, this world-renowned restaurant specializes in delicious, fresh crab dishes. Known for its giant Sri Lankan mud crabs, it's frequently listed as one of Asia's best restaurants.
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The Gallery Café
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Set in the former office of famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, this stylish restaurant offers a mix of Sri Lankan and international cuisine. It's a favorite for its artistic ambiance and creative dishes.
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Nihonbashi By Dharshan
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One of the top spots for Japanese cuisine in Sri Lanka, Nihonbashi offers authentic Japanese dishes with a touch of local flair. It’s known for its sushi and teppanyaki.
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The Fat Crab
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A casual yet delightful restaurant on the beach, specializing in crab and seafood dishes. It’s known for flavorful, fresh seafood with a variety of preparations.
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Chutneys
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Located in Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Chutneys offers an authentic South Indian dining experience. With an extensive menu featuring dosa, idli, and other regional specialties, it's a hit with both locals and tourists.
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The Lagoon.
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Located in the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, The Lagoon specializes in fresh seafood, offering a unique dining experience where guests can choose their fish and seafood from the display and have it cooked to their liking.
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Upali's by Nawaloka
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This restaurant is famous for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a range of traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Upali’s is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service.
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Havelock Place Bungalow
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Set in a charming bungalow, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu that features both Sri Lankan and international dishes. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a great spot for a special meal.
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Pettah Market
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While not a restaurant in the traditional sense, the food stalls and street vendors in Pettah Market offer some of the best authentic Sri Lankan street food. From kottu roti to hoppers, it’s a great place to experience local flavors.
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Cafe Kumbuk
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A trendy café known for its healthy and delicious dishes made from fresh, organic ingredients. Café Kumbuk offers a variety of options for breakfast and lunch, including smoothie bowls, salads, and hearty sandwiches.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Trek&Tally
Ready to explore the world without breaking the bank? At Trek & Tally, we bring you the best travel destinations, budget travel tips, and cost breakdowns that help you plan unforgettable adventures! Whether you're looking for the cheapest countries to visit, the most beautiful beaches, or luxury trips worth the splurge, we’ve got you covered!
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