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VISITING 10 OF THE MOST UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS ON A SRI LANKA PRIVATE TOUR

Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)
Sri Lanka one day tour, Udawalawe safari

The pristine beaches of Sri Lanka are fabulous and make for great vacations. Not only the beaches but also you can combine a few below-mentioned underrated Sri Lanka destinations in your Sri Lanka private tour and make it an irresistible combination.

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WHY EXPLORE UNDERRATED DESTINATIONS?

Before we dive into our list, let’s talk about why seeking out lesser-known spots can make your Sri Lankan journey extra special:

  1. Avoid crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience
  2. Support local communities that benefit less from tourism
  3. Discover unique landscapes and cultural sites
  4. Create memories that are truly your own
  5. Often, these places offer better value for money

According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, while popular destinations saw a 25% increase in visitors last year, many of these hidden gems experienced only a 5-10% rise. This means you’ll still have plenty of space to explore without the tourist crowds!

WHAT ARE THE 10 OF THE MOST UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS?

Are you tired of the same old tourist traps? Looking for a Sri Lankan adventure that’s off the beaten path? You’re in luck! We’ve scoured the Pearl of the Indian Ocean to bring you 10 of the most underrated destinations that’ll make your trip truly unforgettable. From secluded beaches to ancient ruins, get ready to discover the hidden side of Sri Lanka that most tourists miss.

  1. ELLA: SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS FOR BREATHTAKING SCENERY
  2. RAMBODA: ISOLATED YET PICTURESQUE
  3. TISSAMAHARAMA
  4. BELIHULOYA
  5. SINHARAJA RAIN FOREST
  6. AUKANA BUDDHA STATUE
  7. MIHINTALE
  8. MIRISSA BEACH
  9. COLOMBO
  10. UDAWATTEKELE, KANDY

WHAT IS THE BEST PRIVATE TOUR IN SRI LANKA TO VISIT THESE SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS?

There is a large number of Sri Lanka private tour packages to visit all these places. However, it might be difficult to find one Sri Lanka private package tour. Some of the places mentioned above may not fulfil the basic requirements to host travellers. There is a large number of tour package that brings you to these places and here is a list of Sri Lanka private tours that enables you to scratch the underrated tourist places in Sri Lanka.

10 SRI LANKA PRIVATE TOURS TO VISIT ABOVE MENTIONED UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS

1. ELLA: SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS FOR BREATHTAKING SCENERY

While often overlooked in favour of fellow mountain resorts like Nuwara Elia and Haputale, Ella maintains a particular charming surrounding that is that’s hardly second rate. Ella has a picture-perfect surroundings with cascading waterfalls, green-capped mountains, streams, lakes, parks, cascading waterfalls and pristine patches of forests. Ella is particularly popular as an adventure and eco holiday destination in Sri Lanka due to its rugged terrain. This charming holiday destination is also popular for tea plantation tours and Sri Lanka food tours.

Ella is located at a drive of 2.5 hours from Nuwara Eliya. A large number of travellers heading to southern Sri Lanka from Nuwara Eliya cut through Ella but they overlook the natural beauty of this charming little town. Some of the best CEYLON tea is cultivated here. Covered with eucalyptus forests and pine trees, this mountain resort does not seem to be a part of this world.  

Ella offers many interesting places for nature lovers, located next to Ella gap, there are many waterfalls, mountains, patches of forests and tea plantation in and around Ella. Ella harbours a large number of trekking and hiking treks and Ella tour has become trending days trip in Sri Lanka over the last few years.

2. UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS: RAMBODA

You will encounter this charming small Sri Lankan town on your way from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. I highly doubt if you have heard of Ramboda, despite its location on the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya main highway. Most travellers miss this beautiful town despite its natural beauty. The most important landmark is the Ramboda waterfall, however, it is hidden in the jungle and visitors need to trek down the hill to see it. Ramboda plateau is just 56 km from Kandy. The most striking features of the Ramboda plateau are its valley covered with Tea bushes and the Ramboda waterfall.

Opposite to popular mountain resorts of Nuwara Eliya and Kandy, Ramboda is a little sleepy town. However, it does not lack natural beauty, therefore, I think, it should be one of the important places to visit in Nuwara Eliya and should be promoted on the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya trip. This beautiful countryside is often overlooked in favour of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, which are more popular among travellers.

It is really a pity, that most travellers drive all the way from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, without any stops, once they start the trip in Kandy, which is 2 hours drive. Most of them do not bother to explore these beautiful uncrowded places along the way.  

Ramboda plateau is very beautiful and a large part of is still under natural forest cover, it hosts several freshwater streams, brooks, forests, tea gardens, lush green mountains, a few waterfalls, and a river. Here, you see the Ramboda falls pouring water onto the large boulders resting at the lower areas of the plateau, these milky-white waters flowing over the roads and splashing against the rocks, before commingling with the Mahaweli river.

What is the best Sri Lanka trip to visit Ramboda Falls?

3. UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS: TISSAMAHARAMA

In the extreme south of Sri Lanka, Tissamaharama of the southern province of Sri Lanka is an epitome of beauty, serenity, and wilderness. After reaching Hambantota on Sri Lanka’s southern expressway, travellers need to take the regular road and drive further south from Hambantota.

The distance from Hambantota to Tissamaharama is 28km and the drive takes around 30 minutes. During the 3 hours of journey from Colombo, the travellers rush through rice paddies, Rivers, Rubber plantations, coconut plantations and patches of forests. The entire drive commands a spellbinding scenery in the countryside.  

The charming village has a huge lake, which is the lifeblood of the entire region. Tissamaharama has huge paddies fields and farming is the main industry here. Tourism also plays a major role in Tissamaharam and provides a lot of jobs for the youths. Tissamahrama is one of the main tourist resorts in southern Sri Lanka and it is included in most of Sri Lanka’s south coast itineraries. The major tourist attractions in Tissamaharama are Yatalatissa temple, Kataragama temple, Yala national park and Kumana national park.

Beloved for its rich historical past, romantic architecture, and ethereal, Gigantic rain trees, Charming village is fast developing as a holiday destination. Tissamaharama is a bunkering spot for a large number of foreign travellers, who are heading to Yala safari.

The deep blue water of Tissamaharama lake hosts a wide range of species including 3 meters long crocodiles. However, it has a large stock of fish and the lake is the source of food for many families in the area.

The deep blue waters of Tissamaharama lake, with light-green coloured rice paddies in the backdrop, and greenery with a gigantic raintree in the foreground offer such a view throughout the year, that one is left amused for the rest of his life.

BEST SRI LANKA PRIVATE TOUR TO VISIT TISSAMAHARAMA

4. UNDERRATED SRI LANKA DESTINATIONS: BELIHULOYA

Belihuloya is a sleepy town on the Colombo-Badulla main highway. This charming holiday destination, despite its potential, is yet to earn a popularity as a destination for nature tours in Sri Lanka. Belihuloya is just 2 hours away from Colombo on a good motorable road, therefore it is popular for Sri Lanka motorcycle tours.

It is largely isolated and the population does not exceed 5000 people. It is located within the boundary of the Sabaragamuwa province. With thousands of forests, farmlands, mountain peaks, valleys, waterfalls, rivers, streams and many other beautiful geographical features, Belihuloya is undoubtedly one of the best places for nature tours in Sri Lanka.

It is isolated, calm, and serene. Economic development hardly ever disturbs Belihuloya.  The mountain resorts spread between 500 and 1500 metres above sea level. 90 percent of Belihuloya is hidden under the tropical green canopy. The perineal waterways that rush through the mountain valleys constantly feed the patches of forests, farmland, tea plantations, and rubber plantations.

Belihuloya has a mild climate and had totally different contrast compared to beaches. Belihuloya hosts a wide range of beautiful flowers of all hues and colours. Gigantic trees such as raintree, which produces small yellow flowers as well as shrubs and flowering plants such as angel’s trumpet flowers are spreading all over this mountain-rich region.  

Sri Lanka offers a many dozens of national parks, wildlife reserves, rainforests and many other ecological places that suitable for thriving wildlife. Therefore choosing best national park is critical when planing the perfect wildlife tour in Sri Lanka.

5. VISITING SINHARAJA RAIN FOREST ON SRI LANAK PRIVATE TOUR

One of th most popular destinations in Sri Lanka among the nature lovers. Located in the western province of Sri Lanka and Sinharaja rain forest is nestled at the foothills of the central mountain range. The forest reserve keeps a healthy distance from the traffic-clogged streets of busy towns, Sinharaja rain forest in other words a breath of fresh air.

Known for its pristine forest cover and large stock of Fauna and Flora, the Sinharaja rain forest is considered one of the top 10 biodiversity hotspots in the world. The Sinharaja Rain Forest is a much-needed escape from nature.

WHAT IS THE BEST TRIP TO VISIT SINHARAJA RAINFOREST

6. ADDING THE AUKANA BUDDHA STATUE TO THE SRI LANAK PRIVATE TOUR

The Aukana Buddha statue rests deep in the jungle of Anuradhapura overlooking one of the largest man-made tanks of Sri Lanka, The ancient Buddha statues date back to the 5th century AD. It showcases the great craftsmanship of ancient sculptures. The 14-foot-tall stone statue is entirely hand-hewn and shaped from granite stone.

The Buddha statue is placed in such a way that it is starting on the water surface of the Kalawewam or lake of Kala, which is one of the greatest irrigation works in ancient Sri Lanka.

Archaeologists didn’t find the Buddha statue until the early 18th century after thousands of years of hiding it in the dense jungle. Aunkana is an off-the-beaten-track tourist attraction and one of the most underrated Sri Lanka destinations, where you encounter only a handful of travellers.

7. MIHINTALE

Nestled in the north-central province of Sri Lanka, 216 km from Colombo, the ancient ruins of the Sinhalese civilization rested in isolation for more than 2000 years. Mihintale was the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and was the home of the ancient civilization of Sri Lanka.

The remote laid-back village is covered with hundreds of Buddhist monuments such as Buddha statues, dagobas, Ayurveda hospitals and many other shrines. However, Mihintale is one of the most underrated Sri Lanka destinations and therefore not popular among travellers like most other ancient places on the island.

Mihintale is also located within the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka and it is just 18 km from Anuradhapura. Mihintale is mainly a Buddhist religious site and easy to reach, and it is well worth visiting this ancient site. The ruins of Mihintale are largely untouched, it’s rare to see this much of old ruins in isolation and in such good shape.

So, if you head on to Anuradhapura, don’t forget to extend your journey a little bit more and enjoy some of the oldest monuments on the island.

8. MIRISSA BEACH

Sri Lanka has been a predominantly beach vacation destination for a long time. Still, most visitors to Sri Lanka are mainly looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. For first-time visitors to Sri Lanka, beaches such as Unawatuna beach, Bentota beach, Beruwala beach and Hikkaduwa beach are most popular as their anchoring points in Sri Lanka. However, there are many other Sri Lanka beach resorts that are equal to the resorts mentioned above, and Mirissa is one of them. Beaches like Mirissa are not short of temptation for beach lovers; with many dozens of kilometres of pristine beaches, Mirissa is one of the most underrated Sri Lanka destinations for beach holidays.

The snow-white sandy beaches are very wide and largely underexplored. Mirissa beach is one of the most blissed-out beach vacation spots on the island. However, the beaches attract very few tourists every year and I doubt if you thought of going there. The sunny, warm beaches with year-round torque water are perfect for beach lovers, especially from November to April. During this period the waters of the Indian Ocean are very calm and quiet and the water clarity is 99%, which means you are well on your target to spot a fascinating underwater world in the Indian Ocean.

Besides giving your skin a nice tan, there are plenty of other things to do here. Check out interesting ancient Buddhist temples, forts, mangrove forests, fascinating countryside, and national parks, or feast your taste buds on delicious seafood. Mirissa is not only good for beach holidays but also for whale watching tours for travellers in Bentota, Colombo, and other west and south coast beach resorts.

9. COLOMBO

The number of visitors to the most populous city of Sri Lanka has been on an upward trend over the last decades starting from 2009. 2009 was a turning point for the island, which marked the ending of a devastating civil war. Since then the city was freed from malicious forces and Colombo became a safe city to explore.

All the travellers, who used to evade Colombo started to flock to the fascinating city to explore its rich historical and natural attractions. The number of visitors increased by 100% over the last decade and there is no sign of slowing down.

Ancient temples, parks, medieval period buildings with colonial heritage as well as modern sky scrappers that penetrate most parts of Colombo appeal to most travellers. The food scene and shopping also play a big role in Colombo.

2 SRI LANKA PRIVATE TOURS THAT ENABLE YOU TO VISIT COLOMBO

10. UDAWATTEKELE, KANDY

Kandy is nestled in the central hills of Sri Lanka at an elevation of 500 meters above sea level. Kandy is not definitely coming on the list of underrated Sri Lanka destinations and Kandy might be overly exposed to the outside world but the next-door Udawattekele forest reserve has a unique charisma and slightly less of the hype. This off beaten path Sri Lanka tourist attraction is an ideal destination for nature lovers. It gives you you opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This protected natural forest is home to a large number of avian fauna species, butterfly species and animal species such as monkeys, deer, mungo and monitors, therefore, it is popular for Sri Lanka trekking tours and Sri Lanka jungle tours.

2 SRI LANKA PRIVATE TOUR TO VISIT UDAWATTEKELE SANCTUARY

15 UNPOPULAR TOURIST PLACES IN SRI LANKA

1. PIGEON ISLAND NATIONAL PAR: A SNORKLER’S PARADISE

Just off the coast of Trincomalee, Pigeon Island is a marine national park that’s often overlooked by travelers.

Highlights:

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for the best chance to spot sea turtles.

2. KNUCKLES MOUNTAIN RANGE: TREKKER’S DELIGHT

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Knuckles Mountain Range offers some of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular hiking trails.

What to expect:

Best time to visit: January to March for the driest weather and best hiking conditions.

3. KALPITIYA: KITESURFING AND DOLPHIN WATCHING

This coastal town in the North Western Province is a hidden gem for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Must-do activities:

Insider tip: Stay at Dolphin Beach for eco-friendly accommodation right on the beach.

4. MIHINTALE: THE CRADLE OF BUDDHISM

Often overshadowed by nearby Anuradhapura, Mihintale is considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Highlights:

Don’t miss: The full moon poya day in June for a unique cultural experience.

5. WELLAWAYA: WATERFALL WONDERLAND

This small town in the Uva Province is a gateway to some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and least-visited waterfalls.

Must-see waterfalls:

Adventure tip: Hire a local guide to discover hidden swimming holes and viewpoints.

6. DELFT ISLAND: STEP BACK IN TIME

This remote island off the Jaffna Peninsula offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past and unique ecosystem.

What to expect:

Getting there: Take a ferry from Kurikadduwan Jetty in Jaffna.

7. WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK: LEOPARD SPOTTING WITHOUT THE CROWD

While Yala gets all the attention, Wilpattu National Park offers equally impressive wildlife viewing with far fewer tourists.

Highlights:

Luxury option: Book a stay at Leopard Trails for a high-end safari experience.

8. TANGALLE: PRISTINE BEACHES AND SEA TURTLES

This southern coastal town offers some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and least crowded beaches.

Must-visit beaches:

Nature experience: Visit the Rekawa Turtle Watch to see sea turtles nesting (seasonal).

9. RITIGALA: MYSTERIOUS FOREST MONASTERY

Hidden in the depths of a strict nature reserve, Ritigala is an ancient Buddhist monastery with a mystical atmosphere.

What to expect:

Pro tip: Hire a knowledgeable guide to fully appreciate the site’s historical and spiritual significance.

10. HAPUTALE: TEA PLANTATIONS AND MISTY MOUNTAINS

While Ella gets most of the attention, nearby Haputale offers equally stunning views with a more laid-back vibe.

Highlights:

Don’t miss: The train journey from Ella to Haputale for breathtaking scenery.

11. MANNAR ISLAND: BIRDS WATCHER’S PARADISE

Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Mannar Island is a haven for migratory birds and history buffs.

What to see:

Eco-stay: Check out Abode Hibernation for sustainable accommodation options.

12. BUDURUWAGALA: ANCIENT ROCK CARVINGS

Often overlooked in favor of more famous sites, Buduruwagala features impressive 10th-century rock carvings.

Highlights:

Best time to visit: Early morning for the best light for photography.

13. KUMANA NATIONAL PARK: BIRDLIFE AND BEACHES

Adjacent to the more famous Yala, Kumana National Park offers incredible birdwatching opportunities and coastal scenery.

What to expect:

Pro tip: Visit between April and July to see nesting birds.

14. BATTICALOA: LAGOON AND FOLK TALES

This eastern coastal city is known for its picturesque lagoons and unique cultural heritage.

Must-do experiences:

Cultural insight: Learn about the area’s folklore and traditions at the Batticaloa Public Library.

15. YAPAHUWA: THE “FORTRESS IN TEH SKY”

This ancient fortress and capital is often overlooked by tourists but offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s medieval history.

Highlights:

History buff tip: Combine with a visit to nearby Panduwasnuwara, another ancient capital.

Planning Your Off-the-Beaten-Path Sri Lankan Adventure

Now that you’re inspired to explore these hidden gems, here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

  1. Best time to visit: The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) often offer good weather and fewer tourists.
  2. Transportation: Consider hiring a driver or renting a scooter for more flexibility in reaching remote locations.
  3. Accommodation: Book in advance for smaller towns with limited options.
  4. Local guides: Hiring local guides can provide valuable insights and support local communities.
  5. Respect local customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of cultural norms, especially in less touristy areas.
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