Why Amazing Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Travel Destination (2025)

COCONUT HILL MIRISSA in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of those dream destinations with something to offer for everyone. If you are looking for sun, surf, cultural heritage, hills to climb, lush tea plantations, vibrant wildlife along with delicious food and friendly locals, you can’t go wrong with Sri Lanka.

Galle Lighthouse
Galle Lighthouse

Sri Lanka is often referred to as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean due to its shape and the abundance of experiences it has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, here are the top reasons why the beautiful island of Sri Lanka should be on your travel radar.


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Why You Should Visit Sri Lanka

Tropical Climate all year around

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the region and what you want to do. The climate is described as “tropical monsoon” and is split roughly into two seasons, with a wet and a dry season.

From May to September is the monsoon period in the southwest, while the north is dry and from December to February is in the northeast monsoon period and dry in the south.

The Central Highland region tends to be cooler all year round, but still ample sunshine.

Stunning Beaches

With the island’s coastline on the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka boasts some of the most beautiful pristine beaches in the world. With golden sands and turquoise waters, it offers the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.

Mirissa Beach on the southern coast
Mirissa Beach

Explore hidden coves and snorkel among colourful coral reefs. There are many amazing places to snorkel in Sri Lankasome of the best include the clear waters of Mirissa, the stunning coral reefs and sealife in Pigeon Island and Trincomalee and, or the chance to swim with green turtles in Polhena Reef. For the more adventurous, you can snorkel or dive around the shipwrecks in Kirinda. Galle or Colombo.

Surfing near Weligama
Surfing near Weligama

If you are a surfer, beginner or pro, head to Weligama and Ocean Tribe Surfcamp. There are other surf camps around the town, but this is where I stayed. The vibe was chilled, the food amazing and the company awesome. Other places along the southwest include Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Matara and Unawatuna. These are top surf destinations from November to April. 

The beach at Trincomalee
The beach at Trincomalee

From May to September, head to the east coast and Arugam Bay where the surf is amazing. I stayed at the Jetwing Surf, an amazing secluded resort not far from Arugam Bay.

Sri Lanka Fishing Boat on the beach at Negombo
Sri Lankan Fishing Boat on the beach at Negombo

If all this activity wears you out and you just want to soak up the rays one of the beautiful beaches, well you are spoilt for choice along the coastline. Try Mirissa, Hiriketiya, Bentota or Negombo on the south coast, Negombo on the west coast or Arugam Bay, Passikuda or Uppuveli on the east coast for the best beaches.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Sri Lanka’s history spans over 2,500 years, and its cultural heritage is deeply rooted in Buddhism and ancient traditions.

Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery
Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery

The country is home to many ancient temples and the large bell-shaped dagaba are visible from afar. The Buddhist dagaba or stupas were built to as hold the earthly bodies of Buddha and his associates or priests. They may also hold sacred texts. If you are visiting one of the many dagaba, remember to take off your shoes, and walk clockwise around it.

Stupa at Rajagala
One of the restored Stupas at Rajagala Archaelogical site

Head to the Cultural Triangle and explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Climb to the top of ancient Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa. The panoramic views from the top are an unforgettable experience.

In Kandy, there are 3 daily ceremonies at the Temple of the Tooth at 5:30am, 9:30am and 6:30pm. You have the opportunity to see the golden relic holder for the sacred tooth of Buddha. It can be very busy at I would recommend getting there around an hour and a half beforehand to get a good view.

Kandy Temple of the Tooth
Kandy Temple of the Tooth

Remember to dress modestly at religious sites, cover shoulders and remove your shoes before entering Buddhist temples, and and avoid pointing with your feet. It can cause serious offence if you turn your back on a Buddha statue in Sri Lanka.

Colombo, the old and the new
Colombo, the old and the new

A must for history buffs is a walk around Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, to understand the history of the country and to see its architecture. Galle’s fortifications are fascinating and a wander around the town is worth it.

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the significance of these historical sites.

8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The island is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase its rich history and artistry:

  1. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
  2. Ancient City of Sigiriya
  3. Sacred City of Anuradhapura
  4. Sacred City of Kandy
  5. Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
  6. Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple
  7. Sinharaja Forest Reserve
  8. Central Highlands of Sri Lanka

Colourful Festivals

Don’t miss the Esala Perahera festival in Kandy, one of Asia’s most spectacular religious events. It is a 10-day Buddhist Festival taking place in July or August. There are daily processions of dancers, musicians, fire-breathers, jugglers, and elephants that parade through the city

Stupa covered in festive lights
Stupa covered in festive lights

In June, on the full moon, the Poson festival in Tissamaharama celebrates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century. One of the biggest festivals in the country, the parade takes place in the evening with people queuing all day to enjoy it.

Many of the festivals include elephants who are bedecked in splendid beaded and bejewelled costumes.

Elephant taking part in Poson Festival
Elephant taking part in Poson Festival

Abundant Wildlife

Outside of Africa, Sri Lanka is one of the best places to go for nature enthusiasts. With 28 National Parks, the island is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including leopards, Asian elephants and other wild animals, and exotic birds.

Head to Yala National Park for leopards, Udawalawe National Park or Minneriya National Park for elephants, Bundala for birdwatching or the rare shaggy sloth bears in Wilpattu. Leopards are notoriously difficult to spot. If you look at the photo below, in you can just see the leopard in the centre of the picture.

Leopard in the tree in Yala National Park
Leopard in the tree in Yala National Park (centre of photo)

Take a boat safari through the mangrove forests of Madu Ganga or the Gal Oya National Park to see the elephants, water buffalos and the diverse variety of bird species in their natural habitats.

Elephant half submerged Swimming in Senanayake Samudra lake in Sri Lanka
Elephant Swimming in Senanayake Samudra, near Gal Oya

Other animals to look out for include the shy red slender loris, macaques, crocodiles and the national bird of Sir Lanka, the Sri Lanka Junglefowl with its vibrant plumage.

One bird that you will not miss is the peacock. They are everywhere, fanning their amazing tails and calling out to each other. Peacocks are so abundant that on the highways, there are even highway signs warning “Danger Peacocks Ahead”!

Dolphin watching in Trincomalee
Dolphin watching in Trincomalee

For aquatic nature lovers, go on a boat trip to see dolphins or sperm whales from Mirissa on the south coast, or Trincomalee on the east coast. Sri Lanka is also home to around 60 different shark species, however, incidents involving sharks are very rare.

Most wildlife safaris take place during the early morning or late afternoon. These are the best times for the wildlife sightings.

Breathtaking Landscapes

From mist-covered mountains and lush rainforests to white sandy beaches, Sri Lanka’s landscapes are as varied as they are stunning. The Central Highlands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly captivating.

As mentioned, one of the most epic views is from the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. If you want to see what Sigirya looks like from higher up, the best way is to hike up Pidurangula Rock for views across to it.

View of Sigiriya from Pidurangala
View of Sigiriya from Pidurangala

Take a scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella for some amazing views of the countryside. Don’t forget to have a look at Ella’s Nine Arch Bridge.

Nine Arch Bridge
Nine Arch Bridge

For a gentle hike, Horton Plains National Park is perfect. Green signboards dotted around the park give you different route options with the approximate distance in kilometres. Try not to miss Bakers Fall and World’s End where you are above the cloud line.

The World's End in Horton Plains National Park
The World’s End in Horton Plains National Park

It is worth taking a visit to the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. The hillsides are green with verdant tea plantations. You can take a tour around the plantations and find out the processes that go into making your cuppa!

Pekoe Trail - Sri Lanka
The Pekoe Trail

One way to explore the Central Highlands is to hike the Pekoe Trail, a 300km, 22-stage walk from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, passing through Haputale, Ella and many other places on the route.

Waterfalls

Sri Lanka has some amazing waterfalls, from Ravana Falls near Ella, Bambarakanda Falls close to 283 metres, the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Ramboda Falls or Lovers Leap near Nuwara Eliya, they are all amazing to see.

Ravanna Waterfall near Ella
Ravanna Waterfall near Ella

There might be a small charge for you to visit the falls.

Incredible Sri Lankan Cuisine

selection of curries from Sri Lanka
Amazing selection of curries in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan food is a burst of flavours, with dishes that showcase the island’s abundance of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Whether you like spicy curries or milder ones with coconut milk, you will be surprised by the delicious cuisine on offer.

Try hoppers, kottu roti, string hoppers, curries of all kinds, vegetable, meat, fruit and the delicious crab curry famous in Jaffna.

Take a wander around the markets and see the piles of tropical fruits, and fresh seafood straight from the boats, and sample some of the street food like vadai. Try one of the beach restaurants where you choose which fish or seafood you would like then sit on the beach while it is cooked for you.

Market in Pasikuda with abundant fresh vegetables
Market in Pasikuda with abundant fresh vegetables

Don’t forget to sample some freshly brewed Ceylon tea in one of the tea plantations. It is a totally different experience to the teabags I am used to!

Most hotels and restaurants have a good range of Sri Lankan dishes suitable for vegetarians. If you have dietary requirements, check with staff to see what you can and can’t eat.

If you can, join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Sri Lankan cooking and bring the flavours back home. My post about Sri Lankan cuisine includes some recipes to try.

Warm and Welcoming People

Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality and friendliness. From smiling tuk-tuk drivers, and hardworking tea pickers to gracious hosts at homestays, you’ll get a warm welcome wherever you go.

Staying in a family-run guesthouse or homestay or participating in a village experience for an authentic connection with locals.

The people of Sri Lanka are so friendly, don’t be surprised if you get invited to eat with them, join in a party or even get invited to a wedding like I was on my first visit.

dressed up for the wedding in a borrowed sari
dressed up for the wedding in a borrowed sari

I also found that many families wanted to have their photos taken, either with me or by me on my phone. It might seem strange, but this seems to happen a lot in Asian countries. It is genuinely that they wanted a photo. Maybe it is because I am blonde or just a foreigner, but everyone was very polite and I still have many photos of random people on my phone and camera!

Family photo in Hatton Plains
Family photo in Hatton Plains

I always try to learn a few phrases when I am abroad. Try learning a few words in Sinhala (or Tamil if you are going to the North) to enhance your interactions and show respect for the culture.

Adventure Activities

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Sri Lanka won’t disappoint. From hiking to water sports, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping experiences.

Adam's Peak near Ella in Sri Lanka
Adam’s Peak

There are many places to hike, including the high peaks of the Knuckles Mountain Range between Matale and Kandy. Climb Adam’s Peak, or the less strenuous Little Adam’s Peak for a breathtaking sunrise view down the valleys.

Dawn from Little Adam's Peak
Dawn from Little Adam’s Peak

While at Little Adam’s Peak, you can go on an ATV off-road adventure, scale the climbing wall or try one of the zip-lines then cool off at the Ravana Pool Club nearby.

Water lovers won’t be disappointed. Surfing is available around the coasts. Try Kalpitiya on the west coast for epic kitesurfing. Head to Kitulgala for white-water rafting and abseiling. Take a jet-ski out on the waves at Pasikudah or just snorkel in the bay at Marissa looking for turtles.

Jet ski-ing at Maalu Maalu
Jet ski-ing at Maalu Maalu

If you are planning to take part in any outdoor activities during your holiday in Sri Lanka, try to pack appropriate gear for outdoor activities and plan your adventures based on the best weather conditions.

Affordable Luxury

Sri Lanka offers a unique blend of affordability and luxury, making it a great destination for budget, mid-range and high-end travellers.

Jetwing Surf, Argum Bay,
Jetwing Surf, Argum Bay

There are many hostels, homestays and inexpensive hotels to stay at. My favourite, near Matera was The Old Doctor’s House. Check out Hostelworld for the best recommendations and reviews.

There is an abundance of choice for mid- to high-end travellers. Some of the hotels I have stayed at include:

Jetwings: Jetwing Kaduruketha near Ella; Jetwing Jaffna in Jaffna (the ideal place for a crab curry); Jetwing Blue in Negombo; Jetwing St Andrew’s in Nuwara Eliya; Jetwing Surf near Arugam Bay; Jetwing Vil Uyana near Sigiriya
Thema Hotels: Aliya near Sigiriya; Maalu Maalu in Pasikuda; Wild Glamping in Gal Oya
Cinnamon Hotels: Cinnamon Grand Colombo in Colombo; Trico Blue by Cinnamon near Trincomalee
Independent Hotels: Tabula Rasa Boutique Hotel & Spa near Galle; Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge near Kandy; Shangri-la near Hambantota and The Slow, vegan hotel in Mirissa

Book accommodations early, especially during the peak season, to secure the best deals.

The Slow, Mirissa
The Slow, Mirissa

Getting Around Sri Lanka

Public transport is affordable but can be crowded.

The trains are an adventure and you can sit in 1st, 2nd or 3rd class. It is worth getting your tickets a day or two in advance if possible. If you get on the wrong carriage, there are always plenty of friendly people to help you.

Trains in Sri Lanka with guard blowing his whistle wearing a white uniform
Trains in Sri Lanka

I took the train from Colombo up to Jaffna and sat in the 3rd class carriage instead of the 1st that I had booked. People were smiling at me and sharing their food with me and trying to make conversation.

For short journeys, tuk-tuks are the way to go. These nimble wee trikes buzz about all over the place. Do make sure you establish the price before you get in. If you are staying in the same place for a while, you may get to know the drivers and have a favourite one who ends up being your driver and tourguide rolled into one.

green Tuk Tuks in Sri Lanka
Tuk Tuks

Hiring a private driver or renting a car offers more convenience and flexibility, you can stop when you want if you want to take photos of view. However it can work out quite expensive if you use them all the time.

Final Thoughts about visiting Sri Lanka

If you head to Sri Lanka for a group tour with a company like G Adventures or travelling solo, like I did, you will find that Sri Lanka is a destination that combines natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re strolling through ancient ruins, trekking through misty mountains, or relaxing on golden beaches, you’ll find countless reasons to fall in love with this tropical island paradise. Make sure you make Sri Lanka your next travel destination.

Ready to pack your bags? Share your travel plans or experiences in the comments below!

Use this Sri Lanka Travel Tips to plan your adventure!

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