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Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean,' is a stunning island nation that beckons travelers with its diverse appeal. Touring Sri Lanka is an adventure through lush landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This small island is packed with an array of experiences – from pristine beaches and wildlife-rich national parks to ancient temples and bustling markets. The charm of Sri Lanka lies in its variety. You can relax on golden beaches, explore ancient ruins, or embark on wildlife safaris. The warmth of the Sri Lankan people, combined with their delicious cuisine, adds to the allure of touring this beautiful country. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Sri Lanka offers something for every kind of traveler. Its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance makes it an unforgettable destination. With tour operator volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 40% versus assembling the same itinerary on your own! Book your Sri Lanka tour today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted tour headquarters. View Sri Lanka Tour Deals and Discounts

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

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Itinerary Map10 DaysInsight VacationsFirst ClassEscorted1 - Light  5+ years old24ColomboColomboSri Lanka
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Itinerary Map12 DaysNational GeographicFirst ClassEscorted3 - Explorer  12+ years old15ColomboNegomboSri Lanka
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08 DaysG AdventuresBudgetEscorted1 - Light  12+ years old15NegomboUdawalaweSri Lanka
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12 DaysIntrepidBudgetGuided/Hosted3 - Explorer  5+ years old16NegomboColomboSri Lanka
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12 DaysIntrepidBudgetEscorted2 - Classic  15+ years old12NegomboColomboSri Lanka
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12 DaysIntrepidBudgetEscorted2 - Classic  15+ years old12NegomboColomboSri Lanka
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Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Sri Lanka Tours Highlights

Iconic Sites and Attractions of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island of historic sites and natural beauty, is home to several attractions that are a must-visit for any traveler. Touring these iconic sites provides a glimpse into the country's rich heritage and natural wonders.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient rock fortress and palace ruins known for its breathtaking views and fascinating history. The dramatic rock rising almost 200 meters out of the jungle has gardens, frescoes, and water features at its summit, making the climb a rewarding experience.

The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Polonnaruwa, offers ruins of an ancient garden city dating back to the 12th century. Touring this site, visitors can see well-preserved stupas, statues, and intricate carvings reflecting the glory of ancient Sri Lankan architecture.

Temple of the Tooth Relic: Located in Kandy, this temple is a significant Buddhist site that houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. The temple complex, with its rich decorations and cultural significance, is a key step in any cultural tour of Sri Lanka.

Yala National Park: For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience. It's known for its leopard population, along with elephants, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. A tour here is a thrilling adventure into the wild.

Galle Fort: In the coastal city of Galle, the Galle Fort stands as a remnant of Sri Lanka's colonial past. The fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a charming blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions.

Adam's Peak: For trekkers, Adam's Peak, also known as Sri Pada, is a must-visit. This conical mountain is a famous pilgrimage site, with a footprint at the summit sacred to multiple religions. The hike, especially during the pilgrimage season, is a unique experience combining spiritual and physical journeying.

Horton Plains National Park: Horton Plains, a highland plateau rich in biodiversity, offers a serene natural setting. The park's famous 'World's End' is a sheer cliff with a dramatic drop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Arugam Bay: Arugam Bay, a renowned surfing destination, is ideal for those looking to catch some waves or simply relax on sandy beaches. Its laid-back vibe and natural beauty make it a popular spot for beach tours and water sports.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sinharaja is the last viable area of primary tropical rainforest in the country. Trekking through this dense forest offers encounters with a variety of endemic wildlife and a true experience of Sri Lanka's rich ecological diversity.

Sri Lanka Tours Travel Tips

  • The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) is the main form of currency.
  • Sinhala and Tamil are the primary languages spoken in Sri Lanka, representing the two main ethnic groups. The languages, each with its own literature and traditions, contribute significantly to the cultural tapestry of the island.
  • Festivals play a central role in Sri Lankan culture, with the Buddhist festival of Vesak and the Hindu festival of Deepavali being among the most prominent. Vesak, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, is celebrated with great fervor, with streets lined with lanterns and homes decorated. Deepavali, the festival of lights, is another vibrant celebration, marking the triumph of good over evil.
  • Traditional arts are also a significant aspect of Sri Lankan culture. The Kandyan dance, known for its dynamic movements and colorful costumes, is a must-see. Mask-making, a craft passed down generations, is prevalent in the coastal town of Ambalangoda, where intricately carved masks are used in traditional dances and rituals.
  • Public transport in Sri Lanka is quite developed. Buses are the most common form of transport, connecting almost all parts of the island. They're affordable and frequent but can be crowded. Trains offer a more scenic and relaxed journey, especially the routes through the hill country, which are known for their breathtaking views.
  • Tuk-tuks are widely available for short distances. They're a quick and convenient way to get around, but agreeing on the fare in advance is advisable.
  • When it comes to local customs, it's important to be respectful and patient. Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality, and a friendly approach goes a long way. Learning a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil can be helpful and is greatly appreciated by locals.
  • A must-try is the national dish, "rice and curry," - a plateful of rice served with a selection of different curries and accompaniments. Each region has its own version, making it a new experience in every part of the island. "Hoppers," bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, are perfect for breakfast or a light meal, often served with spicy sambal.
  • For seafood lovers, the coastal areas offer fresh, delicious dishes like fish curry and grilled prawns. In the hill country, you can experience the colonial-era tradition of high tea, complete with Ceylon tea and local snacks.
  • Notable eateries worth touring include the Ministry of Crab in Colombo for exquisite crab dishes and Upali's by Nawaloka for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Street food vendors, particularly in Galle and Colombo, provide a taste of local flavors like kottu roti and vada.

Sri Lanka Tours Things To Do

  • Colombo
    Colombo

    Once known as the "Garden City of the East," Colombo is now a capital that sprawls over a large area - one that is experiencing a building boom and continually expanding. This site is often the beginning or ending destination on a Sri Lanka tour. The crowded and traffic-clogged Galle Road, for example, features several new hotels.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Because Colombo is on the southwest coast of the main island, it is better to visit the city from October to February, when the monsoon weather primarily hits the eastern and northern parts of the island.  

     

    You Should Know

    Lake Beira is a 160-acre lake that sits in the capital city's center. During the Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial periods, the lake was used to transport goods inside and outside the city. Completed in 1997, the city's two World Trade Center Towers are the most recognized skyscrapers and landmarks on the city's skyline. Cricket is Sri Lanka's most popular sport and is frequently played at the beaches and in the parks of Colombo. Sri Lanka was the winner of the World Cup for Soccer in 1996.

  • The Cultural Triangle - Kandy
    The Cultural Triangle - Kandy

    Located in the central and eastern part of Sri Lanka, Kandy is the island nation's second-largest city. It once was one of three great Sihalese capitals. Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura all form what is known as the Cultural Triangle, an area that is the heart of the Island's ancient history.   

    Best Time To Visit

    Because Kandy is located in the central and east part of Sri Lanka, you will be less likely to be pelted with rain from May to September, when sunnier and drier weather is the norm.  

     

    You Should Know

    One of the highlights of any tour of Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth, known to hold a relic of the tooth of Buddha. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kandy was the last capital of the kings of Sri Lanka. Monks at the temple conduct daily worship at dawn, at noon, and in the evening.

  • Anuradhapura
    Anuradhapura

    Another one of the ancient cities of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, Anuradhapura goes back to the fourth century B.C. when it was a secular and spiritual capital for over 1,000 years. During its height, the city was home to a population of 10,000+ monks. Many of its dagobas (shrines for sacred relics) and monasteries can still be seen today.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Anuradhapura is located in a north-central province in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is best to visit the ancient attraction from May to September, or when there is less chance of a rain shower.  

     

    You Should Know

    Private tours of Anuradhapura often take visitors to dozens of religious sites, including the three largest stupas in Sri Lanka. The Sri Maha Bodhi represents the southern branch and sacred fig of a tree under which it is said Buddha received enlightenment. The scenery and sites at Anuradhapura offer people a great opportunity to take pictures.

  • Sigiriya
    Sigiriya

    These palace ruins are located in the heart of Sri Lanka between the towns of Habarane and Dambulla and sit on a sprawling rocky plateau about 1,213 feet (370 meters) above sea level. The rock plateau was formed from the magma of an extinct volcano and rises 200 meters (about 656 feet) above the jungle scenery.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Visit Sigiriya, also known as "Little Rock," when it is drier, or from May to September  

     

    You Should Know

    This attraction is highly popular in Sri Lanka, with some travel experts believing that Sigiriya is visited more than any other site. The destination, which was formerly the site of a city and forest, was built in the fifth century by King Kasayapa. Sitting on a large rock column, the palace was abandoned after the ruler's death and used as a Buddhist monastery. You can explore archaeological remains and gardens at the site. To see an amazing view at the top, you need to scale the landmark's 1,200 steps.

  • Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens - Kandy
    Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens - Kandy

    This attraction is noted as being the largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka. The gardens, which sit at an elevation of 1,509 miles or 460 meters above sea level, are bounded on three sides by the Mahaweli River, which is the longest river in Sri Lanka.   

    Best Time To Visit

    Travel to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens is best when you go during the drier part of the year, or from May to September.  

     

    You Should Know

    The gardens boast an astounding array of trees and plants and features giant fruit bats that fly and hang from the trees at the site. You can also see monkeys up-close. Visit the orchid house with its stunning display of flowers or walk around the garden's shimmering lakes. About 2 million travelers visit the gardens yearly.

  • Tea Country - Central and Southern Sri Lanka
    Tea Country - Central and Southern Sri Lanka

    Part of your Sri Lanka tour may include a trip to tea country. Because Sri Lanka is the world's fourth-largest producer of tea, you may find a tour of a plantation to be both interesting and informative. During the 1860s, the first tea plantations were established in Kandy. Today, most of the plantations sit in the scenic south and central portions of the country, where contoured rows of tea plants cover the hillsides.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Because Sri Lanka's tea area is located on the southern slopes of the country, you are less likely to get caught in monsoon from October to February.  

     

    You Should Know

    When you visit a tea plantation, you will see skillful workers deftly plucking the best or most flavorful parts of each tea bush. After the tea buds and leaves are picked, they are sent to a nearby factory for processing. If you elect to go on this type of excursion, you will typically get to visit a tea factory to gain further insights into the tea-producing process.

  • Yala National Park
    Yala National Park

    Sitting in the south-east corner of Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park is the most popular national park in the county. The park, which is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, is separated into five blocks. Two of the blocks, Kumana and Ruhuna, are often explored on guided safaris. The landscape of the park, which highlights wetlands, woodlands, and savannah, is home to a variety of animals including the Sri Lankan elephant, the sloth bear, the rare wild buffalo, crocodiles, and over 200 types of birds.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Visit the park from October to February, or the area's drier time.  

     

    You Should Know

    An enigmatic animal, the leopard is found in high concentrations in Yala National Park. The cat, which is iconic to the park, makes spotting it a challenge. Due to its secretive nature, the top park predator can evade notice, unless you are accompanied by a skilled and knowledgeable guide and a little bit of luck.  

  • Tangalle
    Tangalle

    While one part of a Sri Lanka tour involves immersing yourself in culture and history, the other half is for relaxing on the beach or enjoying water sport activities. This is where Tangalle becomes a part of your Sri Lankan journey. Visitors enjoy their days sunning on the beach or exploring the area's verdant interior. Tangalle features some of the island's best beaches and resorts.  

    Best Time To Visit

    Plan your journey to Sri Lankan's southern coast from October to February, so you don't get hit by the monsoon rains, prevalent from May to September.  

     

    You Should Know

    Tangalle is a nesting ground for Loggerhead, Green, Hawksbill, and Leatherback turtles. Water sports enthusiasts visit Tangalle to surf and dive. You can also whale watch if you like.

  • Galle Fort
    Galle Fort

    The atmosphere of the town of Galle will take you back to another time and place. That is because the town is packed with fascinating sites that give you more insight into the island's colonial past. The city's and fort's walls, and everything within them, have been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site.   

    Best Time To Visit

    Take a trip to Galle Fort from October to February, when you can see the sights with less worry about rain.  

     

    You Should Know

    Galle Fort is home to a Victorian lighthouse which is maintained by the country's Ports Authority. The oldest light station in Sri Lanka, the Galle Lighthouse was first built in 1848. It stands 25.5 meters or 87 feet high and was first illuminated with electricity in 1939. It derives its light source from mains power.

Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Deciding the best time to tour Sri Lanka largely depends on the regions you plan to visit, as the island experiences two main monsoon seasons. The climate varies across different parts of the country, making Sri Lanka a year-round destination.

For the west and south coasts and hill country, the best time to visit is from December to March. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for beach tours and exploring the highlands.

The east coast is best visited from April/May to September when these areas are dry and sunny. This period is perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches of Trincomalee and Arugam Bay.

While the monsoon seasons, from May to August and October to November, bring rain, they also offer lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists, which can be appealing for some travelers.

  • Are You Ready to Tour Sri Lanka?

    Are you ready to embark on a tour of Sri Lanka, an island of endless beauty and cultural richness? From its golden beaches and lush green tea plantations to ancient temples and bustling markets, Sri Lanka offers a diverse array of experiences. The warmth of its people, the richness of its history, and the depth of its culture make every journey here unforgettable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or culinary tours, Sri Lanka has something to offer every traveler.

Sri Lanka Tours Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are Sri Lanka Tours?

    Sri Lanka tours are unique tours that take visitors to diverse historical, religious, and natural sites in Sri Lanka. Many of the tours begin and/or end in the vibrant city of Colombia. You can also experience the country's ancient culture when you travel to one or more of the ancient cities in the area's Golden Triangle. Yala National Park is yet another place of interest, as it features Safari tours. The national park is well known for its high concentration of leopards.

  • What Is Included in a Sri Lanka Tour?

    When you take a guided tour of Sri Lanka, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking tour guide. The tours include the cost of some meals, the price of admission to most attractions, and transport. Hotel and airport transfer fees are normally included in the tour price.

  • What is the Best Sri Lanka Tour?

    The best Sri Lanka tour is the tour that meets all your criteria with respect to cost, attractions, and your availability for travel. Make your travel plans through an experienced travel representative to receive the best Sri Lanka tour for what you can afford to spend.

  • What Is the Cost of a Sri Lanka Tour

    The price you pay to take a Sri Lanka tour will depend on when you plan to go, the length of the stay, and what you plan to see. If you take an all-inclusive luxury tour of the island, the price begins at $6,050 per person for 13 days.

Learn More About Sri Lanka Tours

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Reviews for Sri Lanka Tours and Vacations

This tour has exceeded my expectations. The place has so much to offer. Our tour manager (Eranga)was excellent and so was the driver and the assistant. Excellent accommodations and food.

Marlon P

Amazing staff: tour director, driver, assistant. Great hotels and inclusions. Delicious food. Exciting sights to visit.

Bibigul I

Lots of what I call fillers Nothing to see But trying to fill up a day w stuff Like went to a gem store spent an hour looking at gems that no one could afford What a waste of time

Brenda T

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