Sri Lanka

What are the highlights of a trip through Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is known for its impressive nature, ancient temples and rich culture. During a round trip you will discover one highlight after another. These are our favorite places in Sri Lanka:

• Negombo: a leisurely start on the west coast with colorful fishing boats and a lively fish market;
• Wilpattu National Park: on safari in one of the country's oldest and most pristine wildlife parks;
• Anuradhapura: the former capital of Ceylon, full of ancient and restored stupas;
• Sigiriya: climb the iconic Lion Rock for spectacular jungle views;
• Kandy: the cultural capital with the famous Temple of the Tooth and atmospheric markets;
• Nuwara Eliya: a green oasis among tea fields, with colonial charm and fresh mountain air;
• Ella: a laid-back mountain village surrounded by waterfalls, tea plantations and impressive hikes;
• Hiriketiya: a hidden gem for surfers and sun lovers, with a relaxing atmosphere on a tropical bay;
• Ahangama: the place for yoga, surf and atmospheric cafes on the south coast;
• Galle: wander through the charming old fortress full of colonial buildings, boutiques and sea views.

What is the best travel time for Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region (due to the rainy season). For the south and west (destinations such as Colombo, Galle, and Hiriketiya), the months of December through April are best.

For the north and east (destinations such as Trincomalee and Arugam Bay), the best time to travel is from May through September.

We traveled through Sri Lanka in June and July, which falls during the low season. One of the biggest perks of traveling during this time? You’ll often have popular sights and beaches almost entirely to yourself. Along the south coast of Sri Lanka, where we visited places like Hiriketiya, Ahangama and Galle, we hardly noticed the rainy season. The occasional shower was short and refreshing, and the peaceful atmosphere made it well worth it.

Also read our article full with practical tips for travelling in Sri Lanka.

Is Sri Lanka a safe travel destination?

Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists to visit. As with many destinations, it’s wise to take standard precautions, stay alert in crowded areas, and check the latest travel advisories. The country is also accustomed to tourism and has a well-developed tourism infrastructure.

Is Sri Lanka a good destination for a holiday with children?

Yes, Sri Lanka is a wonderful and diverse destination for a family trip. It’s easy to combine beach days with wildlife, culture and nature, and distances are relatively manageable. Do keep in mind that travel times can be longer than expected, and avoid packing too many stops into one trip.

What is the most beautiful beach destination in Sri Lanka?

The best beach destination depends on the atmosphere you're looking for. On the south coast, places like Hiriketiya and Ahangama are great to end your Sri Lankan journey with a few days by the beach. Hiriketiya has a laid-back, tropical vibe and is popular with surfers, while Ahangama is known for its stylish beach clubs, great restaurants and trendy boutique hotels.

Prefer a more peaceful atmosphere? Then the beaches around Tangalle are a great choice. On the east coast, Trincomalee and Nilaveli are worth visiting, especially if you’re traveling to Sri Lanka during the summer months.

How many weeks do you need for a trip in Sri Lanka?

For a first visit to Sri Lanka, we recommend about two to three weeks. This will allow you to combine visits to several parts of the country without having to move on every few days. With three weeks or more, you’ll have more time to travel at a leisurely pace and, for example, spend a few days at the beach.

What are the most beautiful national parks in Sri Lanka?

Going on safari in Sri Lanka? If you prefer to have nature more or less to yourself, the Wilpattu National Park is a great choice. It’s the largest national park in Sri Lanka, and with its vast forests, natural lakes and relatively low number of visitors, a safari here feels wonderfully peaceful and untouched. With a bit of luck, you might spot leopards, elephants and even sloth bears.

Yala and Udawalawe are also well-known safari destinations, but we particularly like Wilpattu if you’re looking to explore a less-visited national park during your trip.