7 Best Colombo Excursions, Sri Lanka Tourism, 10 Must-Visit Cities in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Tourism News

Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

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Sri Lanka truly is a gem of a destination, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure that caters to all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, cultural immersion in ancient cities, wildlife encounters in national parks, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Sri Lanka has got you covered.

Remember, the key to a great Sri Lankan experience is to embrace the laid-back island vibe, be open to new experiences, and connect with the warm-hearted locals. From sipping Ceylon tea in misty mountains to watching the sunset over ancient ruins, every moment in Sri Lanka is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

So, are you ready to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka? Pack your sense of adventure, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a journey that’ll stay with you long after you’ve returned home. The Pearl of the Indian Ocean is waiting to welcome you with open arms!

Impact of Sri Lanka tourism industry on the economy

Sri Lanka tourism has become a major economic activity in Sri Lanka during the 1970s. However, the notable development in the Sri Lankan tourism sector was recorded after the liberalisation of the economy in the early 18’s. Since then, the island has become a leading holiday destination in the world, and tourism has been able to become a leading foreign exchange earner for the country.

In recent years, however, the tourism industry has grown rapidly in Sri Lanka, especially after the civil war in the northern and eastern parts of the island.

Turbulant past of Sri Lankan tourism industry

The political unrest from 1983 to 2009 has significantly hampered the industry. As a result, Sri Lanka’s major source countries for tourism (Germany, France, England, Switzerland, Italy and Holland) advised their citizens not to travel to some parts of the island; on some occasions, they warned the citizens travelling all around the island. As the civil war in northeast Sri Lanka ended in 2009, most countries withdrew their negative travel advisories, paving the way for the development of the industry. There have been some positive signs emerging recently regarding the tourism industry, reflecting that the industry is gradually gaining normalcy.

The Sri Lankan government regards tourism as a priority sector from the viewpoint of achieving sustainable economic growth and reducing Sri Lanka’s dependence on tea, rubber and coconut, which is subject to price fluctuation.

Welcome to Sri Lanka, an island nation that packs a punch when it comes to diverse experiences. From ancient wonders to pristine beaches, from misty mountains to wildlife safaris, Sri Lanka is a traveler’s dream come true. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect Sri Lankan adventure!

Why Visit Sri Lanka?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Sri Lanka should be at the top of your travel bucket list:

  1. Incredible Diversity: Experience different landscapes, climates, and cultures all in one compact island.
  2. Rich Cultural Heritage: Home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  3. Stunning Beaches: 1,600 km of palm-fringed coastline.
  4. Abundant Wildlife: Spot elephants, leopards, and blue whales in their natural habitats.
  5. Mouth-Watering Cuisine: Spice up your life with flavorful Sri Lankan dishes.
  6. Warm Hospitality: Experience the genuine friendliness of Sri Lankan people.
  7. Affordability: Get more bang for your buck compared to other tropical destinations.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s climate can be a bit tricky, with two monsoon seasons affecting different parts of the island. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • December to March: Ideal for the south and west coasts, hill country
  • April to September: Best for the east coast and northern regions
  • Year-round: The Cultural Triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya) can be visited anytime

Pro Tip: Visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-November) for fewer crowds and better deals!

Top Destinations in Sri Lanka

  1. Colombo: Urban Exploration and Colonial Charm
    • Gangaramaya Temple
    • Pettah Market
    • National Museum
    • Galle Face Green
  2. Kandy: Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka
    • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
    • Royal Botanic Gardens
    • Kandy Lake
  3. Sigiriya: The Eighth Wonder of the World
    • Ancient rock fortress
    • Nearby Dambulla Cave Temple
    • Minneriya National Park for elephant spotting
  4. Nuwara Eliya: Little England in the Hills
    • Tea plantations and factories
    • Gregory Lake
    • Horton Plains National Park
  5. Yala National Park: Wildlife Safari
    • Spot leopards, elephants, and exotic birds
    • Beautiful coastal landscapes
  6. Galle: Colonial Charm and Coastal Beauty
    • UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
    • Unawatuna and Mirissa beaches nearby
  7. Ella: Scenic Mountain Retreat
    • Nine Arch Bridge
    • Little Adam’s Peak
    • Ravana Falls
  8. Trincomalee: East Coast Paradise
    • Pristine beaches
    • Whale watching (May to October)
    • Ancient Koneswaram Temple

Must-Do Experiences in Sri Lanka

  1. Take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella
  2. Go on a wildlife safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park
  3. Climb Adam’s Peak for a magical sunrise (December to May)
  4. Learn to surf in Arugam Bay or Weligama
  5. Visit a tea plantation and factory in the hill country
  6. Explore ancient ruins in the Cultural Triangle
  7. Indulge in an Ayurvedic spa treatment
  8. Attend a traditional festival like Esala Perahera in Kandy (July/August)

Discover more unique experiences in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Cuisine: A Foodie’s Paradise

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these must-try dishes:

  • Rice and curry: The staple meal with various curries
  • Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes, perfect for breakfast
  • Kottu Rotti: Chopped rotti with vegetables and meat
  • String Hoppers: Steamed rice noodles
  • Fresh seafood: Especially on the coast
  • Lamprais: Rice and curries wrapped in banana leaf
  • Ceylon tea: A must-try in the hill country

Accommodation Options

Sri Lanka caters to all budgets and styles:

  • Luxury beach resorts
  • Boutique hotels in colonial buildings
  • Eco-lodges in the wilderness
  • Homestays for an authentic local experience
  • Affordable guesthouses and hostels

Getting Around Sri Lanka

  1. Train: Scenic and affordable, especially in the hill country
  2. Private car with driver: Most flexible option for touring the island
  3. Tuk-tuks: Fun for short distances in cities
  4. Buses: Cheapest option, but can be crowded
  5. Domestic flights: Time-saving for longer distances

Learn more about transportation in Sri Lanka

Responsible Tourism in Sri Lanka

As travelers, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact:

  1. Respect wildlife: Maintain a safe distance and avoid unethical animal attractions
  2. Support local communities: Buy souvenirs from local artisans
  3. Conserve water and energy: Sri Lanka faces periodic droughts
  4. Dress modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites
  5. Learn a few local phrases: A little Sinhala or Tamil goes a long way!

Practical Tips for Your Sri Lanka Adventure

  1. Visa: Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival
  2. Vaccinations: Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations
  3. Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) – withdraw cash at ATMs in major cities
  4. Language: Sinhala and Tamil are official languages, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas
  5. Safety: Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, but always exercise common sense
  6. Packing: Bring lightweight, modest clothing and good walking shoes
  7. Health: Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food

Sample 10-Day Itinerary

  1. Days 1-2: Colombo and Negombo
  2. Days 3-4: Sigiriya and Dambulla
  3. Days 5-6: Kandy and Nuwara Eliya
  4. Day 7: Ella
  5. Day 8: Yala National Park
  6. Days 9-10: Galle and nearby beaches

Explore a detailed 10-day itinerary

Sri Lanka Tourism Statistics

  • Tourist arrivals in 2019 (pre-pandemic): 1.9 million
  • Top source markets: India, United Kingdom, China, Germany, France
  • Tourism contribution to GDP (2019): 12.5%
  • Average length of stay: 10.4 nights

Source: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority