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Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Last Updated: October 7, 2024

Sri Lanka was a wonderful surprise. I didn’t know what to expect going into my trip, but I ended up loving every bit of it.

It is a divided country, with the south dominated by Buddhist Sinhalese and the north by Hindu Tamils. After the British left in 1948, the Sinhalese controlled the government and enacted a series of laws that limited Tamil participation in society. Eventually, Tamil protests escalated and a 26-year civil war ensued, only ending in 2009.

Though it has been some time since then, Sri Lanka is still very much recovering — but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit. In fact, my time there was especially memorable due to my experiences meeting and getting to know the incredibly friendly locals. No matter where I went, Sri Lankans welcomed me with kindness and open arms.

Traveling around Sri Lanka is relatively easy and very budget-friendly. English is widely spoken, so once you get used to the chaos, it isn’t too difficult to get around.

With that in mind, here’s my Sri Lanka travel guide so that you can save money, have fun, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful country!

A note on prices and currencies : Costs for attractions in this guide are in USD, while costs for restaurants and accommodations are in LKR. This is to most accurately represent the currency in which you will see prices. Foreign visitors are charged a different price from locals at most attractions, quoted in USD. Registered tourist establishments are required to accept only foreign currency from nonresidents, as part of a governmental scheme to build up the country’s reserves of stronger currencies.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Sri Lanka

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in sri lanka.

1. Tour a tea estate

When the British colonized the island in the early 19th century, they quickly realized that the central highlands had the perfect climate and topography for growing tea. One of the largest, lasting impacts of colonialism is that a significant portion of the country is still covered in tea plantations or estates.

The town of Hatton is known as the tea capital of Sri Lanka, as it’s the central point of a few regions where the plant is still plucked by hand (and one of the few places in the world where this still occurs). Going on a plantation or factory tour is a great way to learn about this integral part of the country’s economy and culture. Tours are often free, though if there is a fee, it’s only around 250 LKR. Tours usually include a tea tasting at the end.

2. See the wildlife at Yala National Park

This is Sri Lanka’s second-largest and most popular national park. It’s well known for its abundant wildlife, especially the elephants and leopards that make their home here. In fact, it’s the best place in the world to try to spot leopards, as it has the highest density of them! The area is culturally significant as well, with two important Buddhist pilgrim sites, Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara, located within the park. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visit these sites each year. While a guide isn’t required to enter the park, joining a safari led by an experienced local guide is the best way to experience Yala, as you’ll be able to ask questions as they point out animals to you. Safaris are quite affordable too, starting at just 8,600 LKR.

3. Hike Sigiriya Rock

Also known as Lion’s Rock, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the country’s most famous tourist attraction. In the fifth century, Sri Lankan ruler King Kashyapa decided to build his fortress on this massive column of granite rock. While it was abandoned shortly after his death, its remote location meant that the palace remained untouched over the centuries, and today it remains a fascinating example of ancient urban planning.

You can hike to the top for stunning views over the lush landscapes below; it takes an hour to walk up, as it’s single file all the way. As it’s one of the most popular things to do in Sri Lanka, you won’t have this place to yourself. Get there when it opens at 6:30am to avoid huge lines. If you are there after 10am, the crowds are so overwhelming, it’s not worth visiting. Admission is $30 USD ( guided day trips from Kandy that also include visits to the cave temples of Dambulla are $70 USD).

Pro tip: if you’re on a budget, climb Pidurangala Rock instead. It’s much cheaper (500 LKR), plus you’ll actually get views of Sigiriya Rock itself! (Just note that the trail does involve some scrambling at times, while the trail to the top of Sigiriya is steep but easier, with metal steps and staircases.)

4. Take the train

The British built the Sri Lankan railway system in 1864 to transport tea and coffee from plantations to Colombo, where these goods were then shipped out internationally. The train lines are still in use and provide a scenic way to explore the country. There are three main lines, but the ride from Kandy to Ella is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It lasts seven hours and takes you through lush mountains, tropical forests, and endless tea plantations; the picturesque 20th-century Nine Arches Bridge is on this route as well.

If you’d like to take this journey, it’s best to book with a travel agency in advance as seats sell out quickly. Just adjust your expectations regarding timeliness and speed. Don’t be in a hurry when riding the rails in Sri Lanka!

5. Visit Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura was the very first capital of Sri Lanka and remained so for around 1,300 years. Today, many of the old ruins still survive and have been restored to their former glory. This archaeological complex and UNESCO site contains many of Buddhism’s holiest places, including Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the fig tree where it is believed that the Buddha himself obtained enlightenment. It’s also home to Jetavanaramaya Dagaba, which at 122 meters (400 feet) is the world’s tallest stupa. Most people either rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk to take them around the complex. Admission to the five main temples is $25 USD, though there are many smaller temples and sites that are either free or just a couple of dollars.

Other Things to See and Do in Sri Lanka

1. visit kandy.

The country’s second-largest city was also the last capital of Sri Lanka’s monarchy, the Kingdom of Kandy, which arose in the late 16th century and resisted both Dutch and Portuguese rule before finally succumbing to British colonization in the early 19th century. Kandy is known for its well-preserved historic colonial center (now a UNESCO site), as well as the Buddhist shrine the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (supposedly an actual tooth of the Buddha). Many visitors come here because it’s the starting point for the scenic train to Ella, but make sure to spend a few days exploring the bustling streets, enjoying Kandy Lake, and wandering through the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya, the nation’s biggest and most impressive botanical garden.

2. Explore Ella

If you take Sri Lanka’s most scenic train ride, you’ll end up in the town of Ella, which, though small, is a popular destination. Even if you don’t take the train to get here, the iconic Nine Arches railway bridge is one of the biggest attractions in the entire country. You can get to the lookout by hiking through the forest, and then waiting for a train to go by if you want that iconic “Sri Lankan postcard” shot. Other things to see and do here include traversing the surrounding rainforests to see stunning waterfalls, hiking Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock, and visiting the endless tea plantations.

3. Travel up north

After decades of war, the north has a legacy of destruction that has yet to go away. For that reason, most travelers focus on the southern half of Sri Lanka, with its plentiful hiking and charming beach towns. But seeing the north gave me a more nuanced perspective on a portion of the country without hordes of other tourists. In fact, in my time there, I saw only four Westerners.

As the area is mainly Hindu, you’ll find lots of beautiful temples here, including the impressive Nallur Kandaswamy in Jaffna. The north also offers beautiful yet uncrowded beaches, a plethora of tranquil islands to explore, and delicious food with a strong southern Indian influence.

4. See the temples

Sri Lanka has an astonishing number of impressive temples. Everywhere you go, there’s a beautiful temple! Some of the most famous include Temple of the Tooth (in Kandy), Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam and Gangaramaya (both in Colombo), Dambulla Cave Temple (in Dambulla), and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple (in Jaffna).

When visiting, be sure to dress appropriately, as these are active places of worship. Also, bring flip-flops to temples, since you’ll have to take your socks and shoes off before going inside. Entrance fees range from free to around $10 USD.

5. Take a cooking class

While I didn’t know much about the country’s food before arriving, I quickly became hooked on the delicious curries of Sri Lankan cuisine. Colombo Cooking Class offers three-hour sessions in which you make 10 dishes, including curries, coconut sambol, and papadam. The class takes place in the owner’s home, and it really feels like you’re learning to cook with a friend! The cost is around 20,000 LKR.

6. Hit the beaches

Since it’s a huge island, Sri Lanka’s coastline spans over 1,340 kilometers (830 miles), meaning there are countless beaches to enjoy. There are white-sand shores to stroll on, coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, picturesque sunsets to admire, and breaks great for surfing. No matter what you’re into, there’s a beach for you in Sri Lanka.

Arugam Bay and Mirissa Beach are some of the most well known, mainly as world-famous surfing destinations, but they both have nice beach towns to visit even if you don’t surf.

7. Day trip to Galle

Founded in the late 16th century by the Portuguese and later conquered by the Dutch in the mid-17th century, Galle (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a beautifully preserved old fort town that’s worth a visit. A visit here is best spent just wandering around, admiring the Dutch colonial buildings, walking the perimeter of the old fort, shopping at the artisanal craft stores (or taking a workshop to learn how to make jewelry in the traditional style ), touring the National Maritime Museum, and eating fresh seafood.

But as that’s about the extent of what there is to do, I recommend visiting Galle as a day trip from Colombo rather than staying overnight. It’s super easy, as you can take the train directly, which takes about two hours.

8. Climb Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred mountain and an important pilgrimage destination. Hindus and Buddhists believe the mountain is the footstep of Shiva and the Buddha, respectively, while Muslims and Christians revere it as the first place Adam stepped on earth after his ousting from the Garden of Eden.

But even if you aren’t religious, trekking to the top of Adam’s Peak is a rewarding experience for both the challenge of the ascent and the magnificent views. It is a steep climb, with over 5,000 steps to get to the top, though there are many teahouses to stop at along the way. Most hikers start their climb from the village of Dalhousie around 2am in order to reach the top by sunrise. Depending on your fitness level, the entire journey takes around 5-7 hours.

9. Go whale watching

While countries like Iceland get all the press for whale watching, Sri Lanka is actually one of the best places to view these awe-inspiring creatures. Many species — including the blue whale, the largest animal on earth — migrate annually around the southern tip of the island, swimming closer to shore here than anywhere else in the world.

Mirissa Beach is the best place to depart from, and there are many operators offering tours. Be sure to go with a company that adheres to responsible international whale watching standards, which include stipulations like not getting too close, not feeding the whales, etc. I recommend Raja and the Whales, where an adult ticket is around 20,000 LKR.

10. Explore Colombo

As the country’s capital and location of its major international airport, you’ll undoubtedly be flying in and out of Colombo. This busy city is a bit of everything, with modern cafés and bistros right next to traditional Buddhist and Hindu temples. It’s worth spending a couple days here, getting your bearings and enjoying the cultural offerings.

In addition to taking a walking tour (always my favorite activity to do when I arrive somewhere), don’t miss visiting impressive spiritual sites like the Red Masjid (mosque), Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Temple, and Gangaramaya Temple; learning some history at the National Museum; experiencing the floating Pettah Market; and, of course, sampling the city’s wide variety of cuisines.

How to Stay Safe in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re a solo traveler. Violent attacks against tourists are rare. Petty theft is the most common type of crime, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation, in crowds, and at the beach, just to be safe. A little vigilance goes a long way here since most thefts are crimes of opportunity.

The main scam to watch out for is paying the “tourist tax” (elevated prices for travelers). If you’re worried about others, read this blog post about major travel scams to avoid .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe, though verbal (and at times physical) harassment unfortunately occurs more often here than in other countries. It’s a good idea to dress conservatively and avoid walking around alone at night.

Other issues that you may encounter involve civil unrest and the current economic crisis. Stay aware of any demonstrations that may be occurring (usually in Colombo). While they are generally peaceful, like anywhere, there is the potential for these protests becoming violent. Steer clear to avoid getting caught in the middle.

Also be aware that shortages of supplies are common, and fuel is currently being rationed. If you need medications, bring a full supply with you.

Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 119.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. It protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong unexpectedly. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka

Guesthouses are the most common and affordable option in Sri Lanka, though there is a growing number of hostels here too. Here are my recommended places to stay around the country:

• Backpacker Galle Hostel (Galle)
• C1 Colombo Fort (Colombo)
• Palitha Home Stay (Sigiriya)
• Jaye’s Home Stay (Kandy)

Sri Lanka Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 2,000–4,000 LKR per night
• Hostel private rooms – 6,500 LKR per night
• Budget hotels – 8,000 LKR per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 3,000 LKR per night
• Airbnb apartments – 5,700 LKR per night
• Street food snacks – 300–600 LKR
• Casual restaurant – 500–900 LKR
• Sit-down restaurants – 1,500–3,500 LKR
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 750 LKR
• Beer – 500–600 LKR
• Cappuccino/latte – 600 LKR
• Bottled water – 150 LKR
• Groceries for a week –

Balaji Dosai and the Slightly Chilled Bar in Kandy; Ahinsa in Sigiriya; and Upali’s and the Ministry of Crab in Colombo

Sri Lanka Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 9,700 lkr per day.

On a backpacking budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat cheap meals like street food (with limited drinking), use public transportation to get around, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches.

Midrange – 18,000 LKR Per Day

On a midrange budget, you can stay in a guesthouse or private room in a hostel or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, drink more, take taxis to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits or whale watching.

Upscale – 35,000 LKR Per Day

On an upscale budget, you can stay in a hotel or private Airbnb, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, rent a tuk-tuk or car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want!

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Sri Lanka is very affordable, but there are still plenty of ways to help keep your costs low. Here are my top money-saving tips for traveling in Sri lanka:

Visit in off or shoulder seasons – Visit during monsoon season or shoulder season to save money. Even though you will experience some rain, it doesn’t rain 24/7, and you’ll still be able to get out and explore.

Get your visa in advance – You’ll need to get a visa for entry into the country. You can do this either online starting three days before you arrive, or upon arrival. It’s slightly cheaper if you do it ahead of time, plus you’ll skip the lines at the airport.

Eat the local food – Outside of the major cities of Colombo and Kandy, you won’t find many non-Sri Lankan or non-Indian food options. What you do find is overpriced, subpar Western food that’s more often than not a chain. Skip it and stick to the local cuisine.

Bring a water bottle – You shouldn’t really drink the water in Sri Lanka. And since the weather here is really hot, you’ll need to buy a lot of bottled water to stay hydrated (you’ll probably spend 300 LKR per day on plastic bottles of water). Instead, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter instead to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.

Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from residents. You might have better luck in the larger cities, but be sure to request early, as they also see the most requests.

How to Get Around in Sri Lanka

Bus – This is the cheapest and most widely used way to get around the country, though it can be a very crowded and at times harrowing experience. There are two types of buses: red Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses that are run by the state, and blue, pink, or green buses that are run by private companies. Private buses tend to be more crowded, as there are more seats, and drivers try to cram on as many passengers as possible.

Since you’ll most likely be flying in and/or out of Colombo, the blue Colombo Express Bus is the cheapest and easiest way to get from the airport to the city center. It’s just 110 LKR (the same price as the regular bus), leaves every 30 minutes (5:30am–8:30pm), and takes about an hour. In town, it stops at (and leaves from) the Central Bus Stand, Pettah Fort, and Colombo Fort Station. Alternatively, a taxi is about 2,700 LKR.

Tuk-tuk – All throughout Sri Lanka, you can hire drivers cheaply. Any tuk-tuk driver will let you hire them for the day, for around 10,000 LKR. Moreover, they are pretty honest — except in Colombo, where they may try to scam and overcharge you. Elsewhere in the country, you’ll get a fair deal, so there’s no need to try to bargain hard.

Ridesharing – Uber is available only in Colombo and is often more expensive than taxis, especially during rush hours. PickMe is a local taxi-hailing app that you can also use to hire tuk-tuks.

Train – Train travel, while slower, is the most scenic and culturally immersive way to get around Sri Lanka (plus, the island is so small that taking an expensive short flight doesn’t make sense). Sri Lanka Railways runs all trains, and you can find schedules and make reservations on its website.

There are a variety of classes from which to choose: first, second, third, and reserved or unreserved (third class doesn’t have reserved seating and doesn’t sell out). Seat reservations can only be made up to 30 days prior to departure.

Some typical train routes and their approximate prices include the following:

• Colombo to Jaffna (7–8 hours): 2,250 LKR
• Jaffna to Anuradhapura (2.5–3.5 hours): 1,600 LKR
• Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (3.5–4 hours): 2,500 LKR
• Colombo to Galle (2 hours): 1,600 LKR

For more details on train travel in Sri Lanka, I recommend The Man in Seat 61 . It’s the best resource for train travel information.

Flying – As Sri Lanka is a relatively small island, flying domestically doesn’t make much sense. There is only one airline that even offers domestic routes (Cinnamon Air) and those are expensive, starting at 77,000 LKR for a 30-minute flight. Skip the flights.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking is not common here, though it is a bit easier for backpackers as the super friendly locals are curious and ready to pick up travelers. Don’t expect to come across drivers that speak English, though. If you can, have someone write you a sign in Sinhalese and Tamil. For more hitchhiking tips and information, Hitchwiki is a great resource.

When to Go to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is effected by two different monsoon seasons, so if you want the best weather during your trip, you’ll want to keep that in mind.

If you want to visit the beaches in the south and west, go December through March. April to September is best for visiting the north and east.

The good news is that temperatures stay fairly consistent throughout the year. Coastal regions generally have average temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F) while in the highlands you can expect an average of 17-19°C (63-66°F).

While there is a lot of rain during monsoon season, it doesn’t rain 24/7 so you can still enjoy the country. But no matter when you visit, make sure to bring a rain coat just in case.

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Sri Lanka travel and continue planning your trip:

The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka: Costs, Itineraries, and Favorites

Sri Lankans: Making a Stranger Feel Like Family

How to Plan a Trip to a Place You Know Nothing About

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Where to Stay in Sri Lanka: 9 Top Destinations

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on July 18, 2024

The island nation just off of the coast of India is a wondrous place for travelers. From dense rainforests and blissful beaches to ancient temples and amazing train journeys, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer – and that’s without mentioning the kindness of its people and the deliciousness of the food.

Vibrant and full of its own unique history and culture, Sri Lanka may have a strong connection to Southern India but with a rapidly developing tourist scene and alluringly diverse landscape, visiting Sri Lanka is becoming increasingly popular.

Knowing where to stay in Sri Lanka depends on what you want out of your trip. If you just want to enjoy a week or more in a luxury beach resort under the shade of palm trees, head to Sri Lanka’s popular beach resorts such as Unawatuna. If adventuring into hill-top towns with ancient relics is more your scene, Kandy is the place for you. Then there’s the modern vibrancy of the cosmopolitan colonial capital Colombo, with its huge selection of accommodation.

Whatever it is you’re looking for, Sri Lanka is sure to have it. Here’s our round-up of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka to get you dreaming of your next big trip.

Up in the lush green hills in central Sri Lanka, the country’s second city is a unique enclave of customs and culture. The last to fall to colonial rule, Kandy is a cultural hub boasting sights like the Temple of the Tooth – the most important shrine in Sri Lanka – and is host to the high-spirited Esala Peraher festival. Known as the Capital of the Ancient Kings, staying in Kandy means spending time soaking up the city’s unique music and architecture.

Being located high up in the hills means that Kandy has a much cooler climate compared to other big Sri Lankan towns. From the charm of the colonial buildings and the central lakes, modern Kandy has developed into an urban city complete with busy streets – but nothing compared to Colombo. Getting around the city on the local three-wheelers – or tuk-tuks – is cheap and easy.

Accommodation in Kandy is a mix of affordable boutique hotels and lovely central guest houses, as well as some truly stunning places to stay – think infinity pools in villas nestled among the treetops.

Where to Stay in Kandy

• Earls Regency Hotel – With its sophisticated rooms, tropical gardens, three bars, three restaurants, multiple pools, as well as a tennis court, spa, and gym, this is a definitively 5-star option.
• OZO Kandy – Just a stone’s throw from both Kandy Lake and the famed Temple of the Tooth, this hotel is well placed to explore the best that this hill town has to offer.
• Hotel Casamara – This place features a terrace pool complete with sun loungers and a plethora of tropical plants, as well as an amazing rooftop bar and a sophisticated restaurant.

This southwestern Sri Lankan city is famous for its 16th Century Portuguese fort; it’s the best-preserved example of such in all of Southeast, Asia.

Much Portuguese architecture still dots the city, but it was mainly the Dutch who developed Galle; you can still see it plainly in churches, warehouses, and other repurposed architecture, like the National Museum of Galle, housed in an 18th Century Dutch building.

Tourists are drawn to the ambiance and history of this place, which is definitely helped by the charming buildings that line its streets, restored by locals and foreign residents alike.

Formerly known as Gimhathiththa before the arrival of the Portuguese, this harbor city is awash with cafes and shops, as well as hostels and boutique hotels. Cheap hostels are chic. The amount of effortlessly stylish heritage hotels means you’ll be able to stay in relative luxury on a budget (to an extent), but there are lots of pricey – and more lavish – options, too.

Where to Stay in Galle

• Amari Galle – The stylish and polished rooms at this luxury offering have balconies with sea views and rain showers.
• Parawa House – This is a perfect option for anybody wanting to stay somewhere that feels downright luxurious but without the high price. Coffee and meals are available at this guesthouse, with many places to sit and enjoy the surroundings.

The small, seaside city of Hikkaduwa is north of Galle, along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Well-trodden by tourists who are looking for a slice of sand and a chilled-out time, the town is packed full of cheap guesthouses, tourist shops, and many cafes and restaurants. It may have lost a little of its beauty since the tourists started arriving here in the 1970’s, but if you want to spend a few days near the sea, this might be the spot for you.

Connected to Colombo by rail and road, the town has become a hotspot for surfers, who turn up here between November and March, keen to hit the waves at Hikkaduwa Beach. There are also some good snorkeling opportunities; turtles can often be seen around the coral reefs just off the coast.

Where to Stay in Hikkaduwa

• Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon – Beach fans will love this place; it’s set on a bit of headland surrounded by your favorite things – sea and sand.
• L&D Lodge – The rooms at L&D Lodge may be compact, but they’re modern, clean, polished and tastefully decorated; each one comes with its own balcony, too.

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and its commercial center. Made the capital of the island nation by the British when it became part of their empire in 1815, it remained that way even after independence, until that title was taken by nearby Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.

Today, the sprawling city has a fast-growing cosmopolitan side, with many art galleries and trendy cafes popping up in recent years. High-rises – including many hotels facing the huge coastal grassy area of the palm-lined Galle Face Green – are now beginning to create a new skyline. At ground level, British colonial architecture can be found in the form of the elegant Galle Face Hotel, as well as many others, including the General Post Office, Old Parliament Building and the National Museum of Colombo.

This ocean city boasts more than architecture – there’s also the huge Viharamahadevi Park to explore, as well as its many malls. Staying in Colombo has all the benefits of a big city; there’s something for everyone, from its many cheap hotels and hostels to more expensive offerings.

Where to Stay in Colombo

• Galle Face Hotel – This indeed is a luxurious option. One of the reasons is because it’s set in a beautiful colonial building that dates all the way back to 1864.
• Fairway Colombo – Historic and landmark buildings like the old Dutch Colonial Hospital (now a shopping district) and the World Trade Centre are a stone’s throw from here.

The small, seaside town of Negombo is located just 10 kilometers from the Colombo International Airport and is where many visitors to the island start their trip. A much more relaxed way to slip into Sri Lankan life than beginning in Colombo, Negombo is easygoing and friendly. The beach is attractive enough, although not the best in the country – it’s fine for some days chilling out and catching a tan.

A great introduction to Sri Lanka, the center of the town is abuzz with red and green tuk-tuks and locally run restaurants selling some traditional (but mainly Western versions of) food. There’s a good range of choice when it comes to accommodation, too. If you’re looking to travel cheaply, locally owned guesthouses offer low-priced beds, and whilst large resorts may cost more, staying there will mean added comfort and luxury.

Where to Stay in Negombo

• Heritance Negombo – There’s an upscale rooftop bar, a seafood restaurant nestled in a grove of palm trees, and a large buffet restaurant with a selection of cuisines.
• Camelot Beach Hotel – As you might be able to tell from the name, this 4-star offering is situated practically on the beachfront.
• Leighton Resort – This modern, whitewashed hotel boasts a courtyard pool and simple but clean and colorful rooms.

Nuwara Eliya

Once a getaway for British colonialists who managed tea plantations – thanks to its elevated position in hilly Central Province – the green town of Nuwara Eliya does feel a little bit like the countryside.

It’s certainly retained its colonial past, making it popular with domestic tourists in the summer who want to escape the heat. There’s the stately Victoria Park, many golf courses, and 19th Century, Tudor-style country houses and hotels – like the Hill Club and the Grand Hotel. There’s also the Town Post Office – one of the oldest in Sri Lanka. Even the English-style lawns and gardens of private houses now owned by Sri Lankans have been immaculately maintained.

Incredible vistas of the hill country itself, including waterfalls and dramatic valleys, mean it’s also a great place to get in touch with nature.

This is a good place to splurge on a hotel, where you can really hark back to the days of old with some afternoon tea. Of course, this being Sri Lanka, there are several cheap guesthouses and hostels in town – plus some solid mid-range hotels – meaning you can stay affordably amid the luxury. But that’s no fun, is it?

Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

• Queenswood Cottage – A unique, log cabin style building, Queenswood Cottage boasts rooms that continue the lodge theme, with wooden floors, and exuberant cushions and bedspreads.
• The Grand Hotel – Set in a building that dates back to 1891 – and with plenty of meticulously manicured lawns to relax in – The Grand Hotel stays true to its name and offers refined things like afternoon tea.

For amazing views of unbelievable scenery, Ella cannot be beaten. Set in the mountains of the central highland, 1000 meters above sea level, the town is best reached by train. The journey by rail to Ella from Kandy is an iconic one and will take you chugging along in a colorful carriage up through the lush, verdant hills. Ella itself may be small, but if you enjoy hiking or just relaxing in the peace and quiet of nature, it’s definitely well worth your time.

The green slopes surrounding the village are laden with tea plantations and rice fields, and some of the best guesthouses in the area look out over these serene scenes. The accommodation here is good value and mainly run by local families, but there are some boutique hotel offerings too, for travelers looking for a little more comfort. The village itself isn’t packed full of activities, however, you can head out into the hills and discover gushing waterfalls and charming temples.

Where to Stay in Ella

• Morning Dew Hotel – The rooftop of this hotel puts you in the perfect position to soak up the incredible views that Sri Lanka’s Hill Country offers up. Plus, this is where you get to eat your breakfast each morning!
• The View Ella – Everywhere – from the rooms to the pool – you will view the jungle as far as the eye can see.

Located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, Mirissa is Sri Lanka’s chilled-out beach destination. Well, in the daytime it’s chilled out – in high season, the nightlife here has gained Mirissa a reputation as something of a party destination.

In addition to that, seriously cheap beachside accommodation, hostels, and inland guesthouses make this place very affordable indeed, meaning it’s popular with backpackers. If you want a little more luxury for a little more money (in a few cases, a lot more), there are quite a number of nicer hotels and even resorts.

Other than sitting on the beach in a hammock, splashing around in the sea or exploring to see what secret cafes and bars you can find dotted along the coast, this is actually a prime location for dolphin and whale watching. And not just any whales – blue whales, which migrate past the coast between November and June.

Where to Stay in Mirissa

• Randiya Sea View – Just 300 meters from Mirissa Beach, the hotel lives up to its name: the rooms here feature balconies where you can lap up sea views at any time of day.
• Triple O Six – Boasting a pool, garden, and restaurant, Triple O Six is just across the road from a beach, while Mirissa Beach is also within walking distance.
• Peacock Villa – This hotel is set in lush tropical gardens where monitor lizards, monkeys, and even peacocks roam around.

The popular beach resort city of Unawatuna is well-known on the traveler map and for good reason. Glistening seas, yellow sands, and coral reefs are a big draw for people who want to spend a week or two unwinding. The town was hit badly by the 2004 tsunami and, although rebuilding was done in a bit of a rush, the accommodation around the beach ranges from shining resorts popular with international holidaymakers to smaller budget backpackers’ guesthouses run by locals.

Being the most famous beach in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna has all the amenities you would expect – sun loungers and beach-side bars and restaurants all eager to lure in tourists. Domestic tourists also enjoy breaks here and you can often see Sri Lankan families spending time together paddling in the sea. With fewer waves than other beaches in the country, the water here makes for a good swimming spot. As the sun sets, the town begins to liven up, with people enjoying dinner and cocktails. The road that makes up the center of town is busy with souvenir shops, and guesthouses.

Where to Stay in Unawatuna

• Cantaloupe Levels – The spacious rooms are done in boutique style and feature colorful quilted furniture and wooden floors. There’s also a rooftop area for chilling out, and a panoramic restaurant.
• Thaproban Beach House – Situated on Unawatuna’s main beach, the rooms at the aptly named Thaproban Beach House feature a rustic beach house feel.
• Hotel J Unawatuna An excellent option for budget travelers and not so budget travelers alike, Hotel J comes with a range of rooms, including mixed dormitories.

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