What makes Sri Lanka so attractive is its heady mix of British colonial past, beautiful scenery and the incredible warmth and hospitality of the local people. But now the country is experiencing something of a tourism boom after a protracted 26-year civil war, and their numbers are increasing every year.
We have collected 10 tips for those who are just planning their trip.
1. It’s not customary to rush here
Although the infrastructure improves every year, providing more and more variety in transport, navigating Sri Lanka’s winding roads is still a challenge. Which, of course, affects the time spent on the road – it doesn’t matter whether you choose a tuk-tuk, bus or train, you will still arrive late. If you don’t have time and your budget allows, it’s best to rent a car with a driver.
2. …and have fun at night
Outside of Colombo and several popular beach towns, hostels are practically nowhere to be found, and all because apartments designed for families are much more popular. This makes life much more difficult for those traveling alone.
Sri Lanka is better known as a destination for honeymooners than party seekers. There is no alternative to Bangkok’s Khao San Road: resort towns in Arugam Bay on the east coast and in the west, Hikkaduwa is still only a weak semblance.
3. Treat yourself
If you are prepared for your trip and have a big budget, Sri Lanka has a large number of luxury hotels and resorts where everything you brought with you can be thoroughly spent.
Aman, Shangri-La, Uga Escapes, Resplendent Ceylon are the best examples of luxury hotels.
But if you can’t afford something like this, don’t worry, there are also a lot of budget boutique hotels here. It is better to look for them on the spot, you will see what you are paying for with your own eyes and, most likely, it will cost less than through the Internet.
4. If you want to avoid the tourist crowds, head north
Sri Lanka’s northern provinces are a great option for those looking to escape the beaten path of the tourist crowds. The number and quality of hotels varies slightly in the southern region, but nothing compares to the local pristine beaches, empty temples and cozy colonial port towns.
5. Try new things
Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious, so make the most of it. You should definitely try the rice flour pancakes, curry rice and kottu rotty (pancakes with egg and vegetables). If you have already been to Asia, then you will be surprised that the system with street stalls is not very developed here, but take a closer look at the small cafes in guesthouses.
6. Get to Colombo
With its jazz clubs, rooftop bars, designer boutiques and world-famous restaurants, Colombo is definitely worth a visit. In addition to the sights that tell about the history of the country and the city, here you can see how the locals live.
Head to Galle Face Green at sunset to watch families fly kites, cheer on one of the local teams at R Premadas Stadium, or simply watch grandmothers wrapped in colorful saris at one of the local markets.
7. Watch the weather
Monsoon rains are unlikely to spoil the impression of the trip, but be prepared for the fact that the impression still varies depending on the season. If, for example, you plan to conquer Adam’s Peak, then keep in mind that the best time for this is from December to May. If you go up at other times, you will find only tourists and closed shops next to you.
8. Stay active
Sri Lanka is famous for its beaches and tea plantations, but it also has a lot to offer for those who enjoy a more active pastime. Try surfing in Arugam Bay, hiking in the Knuckles Range or rafting in Kelaniya Ganga. Bike rides across the country are also becoming more and more popular every day.
9. Be more careful with money
By Western standards, Sri Lanka can still be called an inexpensive country, but prices here are rising every year. For example, tickets for a show in Kandy have doubled in the last year alone. As for essential items, it is better to buy them in large supermarkets, but if you don’t have one at hand, pay attention to the packaging, the price in rupees should be printed on it (the “Rs” icon). This is the surest proof that you are not paying too much.
10. Experience the culture
Although Sri Lanka in a certain place is separated from India by only 30 kilometers, these countries are not at all similar to each other. The pace of life here is much calmer than there, making Sri Lanka an ideal destination for those interested in India but a little intimidated. Locals are used to tourists, but they really appreciate it when people show respect for their traditions and culture (remember this when you go to a temple).
Source: roughguides.com
You can find and book a hotel yourself on the website or in the OneTwoTrip application.
