There are so many things to do in Sri Lanka on your vacation. Here we picked some of them to share with you and those details will help you to make a Sri Lanka tour itinerary for yourself
14 Things To Do In Sri Lanka In Details
Sigiriya Rock Fortress For Royal Feelings
Sigiriya is considered one of the most important urban planning projects of the first millennium and is one of the oldest parks in the world. As one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this rock-top fort is believed to have been built in the 5th century AD. Before the construction of the palace and the fort, it existed as a Buddhist monastery.
The magnificent paintings, the defenses of the fort, and the irrigation and city-building technology of the time amaze even today’s engineers. That’s why it is now considered one of the modern wonders of the world. For these reasons, Sigiriya has become one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.
Dambulla Cave Temple To see ancient Buddha Drawings And Statues
Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple and Dambulla Golden Temple are another best things to do in Sri Lanka that every tourist does on the way traveling from Sigiriya to Kandy, or from Kandy to Sigiriya.
Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the largest temples with a large number of Buddha statues built in the first century AD. The caves, that were used by the king at that time to escape from the Indian invaders, were repaired and built like cave temples after he returned as king. The Cave Temple is filled with ancient paintings and statues that are appreciated by local and foreign tourists alike.
Climb Up Pidurangala Rock To Capture The Sunrise
Pidurangala is an unmissable place considering Sigiriya and the surrounding areas. Once you climb the Sigiriya rock you will see another huge rock beyond Sigiriya. It is Pidurangala. Pidurangala Rock is one of the best places to watch the morning sunrise. This rock, which belongs to the Pidurangala temple near Sigiriya, occupies an area of about 5 acres and is located at the top of the hill.
You can watch the sunrise on top of a huge rock without any pushing while listening to the birds’ songs. From Sigiriya Rock, you can also enjoy the greenery of the surrounding forest with the morning mist. The amazing 360-degree view allows you to enjoy Sri Lanka in all directions looking out into infinity whilst clearing your mind of any problems. So who can say this is not a good thing to do in Sri Lanka?
Kandy – The Last Kingdom Of Sri Lankan Kingdom Chain
Would you like to walk through the last royal palace of the last kingdom of Sri Lanka and see a Buddhist shrine? Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic is the place for that. The left tooth relic of the Buddha is housed here, but for security reasons, it cannot be seen too closely, however, you will have the opportunity to see all the other places in the palace and all the antiquities in the museums. Here you will find priceless accessories, including antique royal jewelry and clothing, which will surely amaze you if you add this place to your things to do in Sri Lanka list.
Peradeniya Botanical Garden Is A Jungle In The Middle Of Busy City
The largest park on the Island is Peradeniya Botanical Garden and it is a beautiful and spacious 147-acre area.
Peradeniya Park is one of the best things to do in Kandy so you can experience a forest reserve in the middle of the city, lined with trees like various mature giants. The specialty of this collection is the Burmese Giant Bamboo. The centuries-old Giant Java Fig tree and Cannonball tree are also intriguing to visitors.
The gardens are full of all the vegetation and tropical trees of Sri Lanka and various VIP tourists such as Queen Elizabeth II, Marshall Tito, and Yuri Gagarin have planted trees to mark their visit to the gardens.
Ceylon Tea For Everyone
The Ceylon tea industry started in 1801 with a Camellia Sinensis plant brought from China in 1824 by the British tea planter James Taylar. It has become a $ 1.5 billion export industry. Along with the growing tea industry, the tea tourism business is also becoming more and more popular with people wanting to visit the plantations and taste all the goods.
This is where you can find valuable white tea leaves that are grown close to sea level and have never been touched by human hands. so do not forget to add tea testing to your things to do list.
Hike Adam’s Peak Mountain To Get Buddha’s Blessed
Sun service is the rising of the sun, which shortens the darkness of the night and illuminates the world. The top of Adam’s Peak Hill is the best place to see it. Devotees who like to see the morning sun service usually start climbing Adam’s Peak in the evening or around 3 in the morning.
But even today, there is a question as to whose footprint is worshiped here by all religions in Sri Lanka, be they Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, or Catholics. Buddhists believe it belongs to the Buddha, Hindus believe it belongs to Shiva, and Islamists and Catholics believe it belongs to Adam or Shiva. However, Adam’s Peak is a place of worship for all religions in Sri Lanka. Anyway, this is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for tourist hikers
Horton Plains National Park – Trail to Heaven
Horton Plains is the highest and windiest place in Sri Lanka. It is spread over an area of 3.169 hectares at an altitude of about 2100 m above sea level. There are a large number of endemic plant and animal species. Horton Plains is one of the most important water catchment areas and It also provides the country with rich biodiversity.
Little England Nuwara Eliya City
The city of Nuwara Eliya, which is fully nurtured by the British, is known as Little England. This hilly region also produces some of the world’s finest tea from slow-growing tea bushes.
Nuwara Eliya grows lots of European vegetables, fruits, and flowers. The inhabitants of this city grow these as their main source of income or some as an additional source of income. Across this ‘little England’, there are lots of suitable lands for growing vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, leeks, and flowers like roses, daisies, alstroemeria, and delicious strawberries.
Suggested Read – Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya
Epic Train Journey to Ella from Nanu Oya
Would you like to have one of the world’s best things to do in Sri Lanka? It is a train journey
The train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is one of the best in the world. The train passes through several tunnels, little villages, tea plantations, and several waterfalls.
The train pulling the mist through the tea plantations brings a wonderful sense of excitement. It is an indescribable experience and a must when in Sri Lanka. Sit in 3rd or 2nd class to have the true Sri Lankan experience, talking with the locals.
Suggested Read – Best Train Journeys in Sri Lanka
World Famous Breathtaking Ella City
Ella, with its excellent percentage of oxygen content and mild climate, is a place where all tourists gather. Its Mountains, waterfalls, and Nine Arches Bridge make the city a popular tourist destination. This is also helped by its variety of nightlife. It has a lot to offer in such a small town and has something for everyone.
Suggested Read – Things To Do In Ella
Upper Diyaluma Fall – Natural Pool For Relaxing
The upper Diyaluma waterfall is another beautiful waterfall located on top of the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. A special feature of this place is that there are naturally created pools. A slightly cold stream of water flows in and these natural pools are able to extinguish the fatigue and sweat from the climb to the water pool.
Yala National Park Safari
The last link in the Sri Lankan predatory chain is the Sri Lankan leopard. The paradise of leopards is the Yala National Park. Yala safari is another best things to do in Sri Lanka. Remember, When you go to see leopards, you can see many other animals that inhabit the dry zone such as Sri Lankan elephants, wild boars, Monkeys, and deer as an added bonus.
Surfing In Arugam Bay Beach
Arugambay Beach is the place to go for a relaxing dip in the warm blue ocean. For those who are a little tired of the stereo-typed beaches in various places around the world, Arugambay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Eastern Province and it is sure not to disappoint!
The nature of the ripples here is the best for surfing and the sea of Arugambay offers you the best ripples whether you are an expert or beginner. Come give it a try or just relax on the beach whilst watching the crashing waves.
The above things to do in Sri Lanka are the things everyone asked us that they needed to do. but if you are extraordinary from others we can help you to find different things to do in Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is Sri Lanka safe for travelers?
Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s essential to stay informed about current travel advisories and follow local guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
- What’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from November to April when the weather is dry and ideal for exploring the island. However, the hill country is best visited during the European summer months.
- Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?
Yes, most travelers require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can obtain a tourist visa online or upon arrival at the airport. Make sure to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality.
- What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency at banks, ATMs, and currency exchange counters at the airport.
- Are there any cultural etiquette tips I should be aware of?
Yes, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites in Sri Lanka. Removing shoes and hats before entering temples is also a common practice. Additionally, it’s polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
- What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Sri Lanka?
Popular souvenirs from Sri Lanka include handcrafted jewelry, tea, spices, traditional masks, and batik clothing. Don’t forget to haggle and explore local markets for unique finds.
