Sri Lanka, often referred to as the teardrop of India, boasts a diverse landscape that includes tea gardens, sandy beaches, monuments, temples, and a variety of wildlife. From whale watching and stilt fishing to exploring tea gardens and taking scenic train rides, Sri Lanka offers a rich and varied experience for everyone.
One of the unique aspects is the slow pace of life, encouraging visitors to savor each moment and truly immerse themselves in the beauty and charm that Sri Lanka has to offer.
The best time to travel in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka enjoys a summer-like climate throughout the year, with no distinct four seasons. However, there is a rainy season in May. Visiting Sri Lanka before the rainy season allows you to bask in the sun, enjoy the sea, and experience the aroma of freshly harvested tea from its lush tea gardens.
Whether you’re seeking a classic or unique experience, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. From the salty sea breeze in Negombo to the religious ambiance of Kandy, the charm of the ancient city of Galle, the diverse wildlife in Yala, and the elegance of blue whales in Mirissa, along with the beautiful birdlife in the mangroves, Sri Lanka won’t disappoint.
Negombo: Visit the fish market, see the historic church
Enjoy a restful night at a seaside hotel, and rise early the next day to explore the Negombo fish market, where you can savor the freshest seafood.
Around 4 or 5 in the morning, witness the return of fishermen who have been out at sea all night. Their haul includes a variety of seafood like tuna, squid, grouper, blue crab, big squid, and sea shrimp – a true feast!
Following that, visit one of Negombo’s most beautiful churches, St. Sebastian Church. Despite its beige exterior lacking the grandeur of some European churches, the old and classical building exudes a sense of devotion. Observing local believers pray quietly in this serene setting allows you to feel the strength of their faith.
Later in the afternoon, arrange for a taxi to take you to Sigiriya.
Climb The Lion Rock
The Lion Rock in Sigiriya is a spectacular sight. Rising majestically from the ground in a lush mountain forest, the giant rock was once shaped like a roaring lion before weathering took parts of it away, giving it the name “Lion Rock.”
At the summit of this massive rock, you’ll find the remnants of an ancient city, the historic city of Sigiriya. It features gardens, palaces, pavilions, and intricate designs, truly a marvel!
Go on a Pilgrimage Tour of Dambulla and Kandy
Dambulla
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a significant pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka. In the 1st century BC, people constructed stone temples on the slopes of Shishan, carving Buddha statues and adorning murals. The five caves house 2,100 square meters of murals and 150 statues.
Kandy
Another sacred site is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy. The temple is devoted to the Sakyamuni tooth relic, considered a holy destination for Sri Lankan Buddhists to visit at least once in their lives.
Situated by the shores of Kandy Lake, the temple is surrounded by a moat and protected by a turret, resembling a white lotus floating on the lake. The Buddha Tooth Relic is housed in the inner hall’s secret room pagoda on the second floor, adorned with gold and diamonds.
When visiting the temple, it’s essential to dress modestly. Men are advised to wear white trousers, while women should opt for knee-length trousers or long skirts. It’s mandatory to be barefoot and remove hats upon entering the temple. Since the ground can be hot, bringing a pair of socks is recommended.
To honor the placement of Buddha’s tooth in the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, a grand celebration occurs annually in July and August. During this event, people don traditional attire, dance to drum beats, and carry torches, participating in a lively parade.
Enjoy the Tea Gardens of Nuwara Eliya
Skip the crowded Mackwoods tea factory and opt for the more serene Blue Field. Enjoy a leisurely tea session, stroll through the tea garden, and gain insights into the entire tea-making process from plantation to processing.
Sri Lanka’s tea culture bears the influence of its time as a British colony. In the tea garden town, relish the experience of sitting in an English-style manor house, sipping fragrant black tea that feels like a journey through time.
The charming Nuwara Eliya Post Office, a colonial-era relic in pink, makes for beautiful photos. Seize the opportunity to send a lovely postcard to those you miss back home.
I recommend staying at Ceylon Tea Trails, a hotel nestled in central Sri Lanka. Comprising five colonial legacy buildings spread across the tea garden, it’s part of the Roland Harmony Boutique Hotel Group.
Each of the five villas is self-contained, offering a butler, chef, and 4 to 6 staff members, providing guests with an aristocratic experience. Explore the tea garden trails, visit the unique villas, join the hotel’s tea tour, indulge in authentic English afternoon tea, and partake in activities like riding, hiking, and rafting for a delightful experience.
Escape to Yala National Park – From the mountainous tea garden to the seaside forests!
Take the train to Yala National Park and immerse yourself in the tropical jungle on the beach, surrounded by unique tents, offering a tranquil retreat into nature, accompanied by elephants and leopards.
Known as the “mini version of Africa,” Yala National Park boasts the highest density of leopards globally. Explore the park to encounter 44 mammal species and over 200 bird species, including elephants, sloth bears, black deer, badgers, sika deer, monkeys, peacocks, and crocodiles.
Experience a sunrise safari in an off-road vehicle, followed by relaxation on the less crowded Talalla Beach, a serene destination yet to be over-explored.
Go searching for Blue Whale and watch traditional Fisherman fish
Witness the awe-inspiring sight of the massive and enigmatic blue whale along with the graceful dolphins leaping from the water – a breathtaking spectacle at sea.
The best time for blue whale watching in Mirissa is from February to April. Ensure you join a boat excursion to venture into the open sea for an unforgettable blue whale and dolphin watching experience. If luck is on your side, you might even spot sperm whales and whale sharks!
To avoid seasickness, it’s advisable to take seasickness medicine before embarking on the whale-watching journey.
Explore the Old Charms of Galle
After a day at the beach, head to Galle to explore its historic city. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle boasts a charming old town and a prominent white lighthouse, reminiscent of the harbors along the Indian Ocean.
In the evening, make sure to climb up the city walls and walk along the coast of the ancient city. This lets you observe the local lifestyle and witness the stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean!
