A humble country with rich history, lush mountains, welcoming locals and untouched beaches. It’s hard to not fall in love with the allure of Sri Lanka.
For your viewing pleasure, The Asia Collective have rounded up 10 unique experiences in Sri Lanka, we think you need to add to your travel bucket list!
Watch the sunrise on top of Adam’s Peak
What better way to start the day than witnessing the indescribable beauty of the sunrise at the top of Sri Lanka. A 2 to 4 hours hike to the top of Adam’s Peak will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to seize the day.
Sip tea at “Little England”
Experience some peace and serenity at Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England”. With plenty of tea tours choose from, there’s nothing like sitting back with a freshly-brewed cup of tea while looking out to the lush green fields. Not in the area? Check out Ella for tea tours and nature trails too!
See the elephants of Uda Walawe
Watch baby elephants stomp, eat and play at the Elephant Transit Home in Uda Walawe park. A facility aimed truly for the safety of the orphaned elephants, ETH is the ideal place to marvel at these gentle and majestic animals.
Journey by train
The saying goes, “Life is a journey, not a destination”– and we couldn’t agree more, especially when it comes to the charming railway system in Sri Lanka. Running since the colonial times, the Sri Lankan train journey is a blast to the past, bringing gorgeous mountain scenery and ocean views along the way.
Jump on one of the two main routes to soak in the dazzling views while leaning back:
South from Colombo: This coastal route is a scenic delight. Recently renovated, it runs past Aluthgama and Hikkaduwa to the historical town of Galle and beyond.
East from Colombo: To the Hill Country, through Kandy, Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya) and Ella to Badulla. A beautiful route crossing tea plantations and the beautiful nature of Sri Lanka’s hillside landscape. Get your camera ready for the part between Haputale to Ella – one of the world’s most scenic train rides!
Get cultured at Sigiriya
One of the most sacred historical monuments of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress dating back as early as 3rd century BCE. Listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site, some say that this is worthy to be named as the 8th Wonder of the World.
Explore Galle Fort
In the southwest coast of Sri Lanka lies Galle Fort, a fort built in 1588 by the Portuguese. With an extensive history, Galle Fort reveals a mix between European architecture and South Asian traditions, creating stunning backdrops such as the Galle Lighthouse.
Relax at Sri Lanka’s beaches
From Tangalla to Mirissa Beach, the smell of sea breeze and swaying of coconut trees will instantly make all your worries drift away. With clear blue waters and stunning sunset, Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches are perfect paradise locations for that Insta-worthy snap!
Stilt fishing at Unawatuna
Be completely mesmerized by the local fishermen on stilts at Unawatuna, as they spend hours on end on a tiny stilt patiently waiting for their daily catch. An old tradition preserved for many years, stilt fishing is practiced by 500 fishing families and is a rare but special sight in Sri Lanka.
Street food hopping
There’s no better way to experience the flavours of Sri Lanka than through its local food. A mix of fiery spices and even fresh local fruits, the food in Sri Lanka is an exotic eating experience. From string hoppers to kottu roti, each dish is bound to make your taste buds tingle!
Stay at Tri Lanka
Located right next to Koggala Lake, Tri Lanka is a contemporary, sustainable luxury design hotel. Created with green roofs, solar hot water, and recycled wood, the hotel is one of the best eco-friendly stays in Sri Lanka. With yoga and other holistic treatments available, we promise you’ll come out feeling so refreshed and relaxed.
Don’t we all wish we’re in Sri Lanka now! What are some of your favorite travel memories in Sri Lanka?
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