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Dry Season
The dry season offers sunny weather, ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Şri-Lanka
Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia, offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. From the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to the picturesque beaches of Galle and the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, there is much to explore beyond the capital, Colombo.
Løken · CC0- Best MonthsDecember to March (West/South), April to Septemb
- AirportsBandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Mattal
- TransitBuses, trains, and tuk-tuks are available.
- Power230V, Type D and G plugs.
- Tipping10% is common in restaurants.
- LanguageSinhala, Tamil, and English widely spoken.
01
When to go
The best time to visit Sri Lanka varies by region, with the dry season from December to March being ideal for the west and south coasts, while the east coast is best visited from April to September.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Monsoon Season
The monsoon brings heavy rains, particularly to the southwest, affecting travel plans.
Cool Season
The cool season is perfect for exploring the hill country with pleasant temperatures.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Colombo
The bustling capital city offers a mix of modernity and colonial charm, with vibrant markets and cultural sites.
Expect traffic congestion.
Cultural
Kandy
Home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, Kandy is surrounded by lush hills and offers a glimpse into Sri Lankan culture.
Plan for cooler evenings.
Nature
Nuwara Eliya
Known for its tea plantations and cool climate, this town is often referred to as 'Little England'.
Bring warm clothing.
Historical
Galle
Famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning coastal views, Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore the fort at sunset.
Adventure
Ella
A small town in the hills, Ella is known for its breathtaking views and hiking trails, including the hike to Ella Rock.
Get an early start for hikes.
Historical
Anuradhapura
An ancient city with significant archaeological sites, Anuradhapura is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Cultural
Sigiriya
Home to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, this site offers stunning views and fascinating history.
Climb early to avoid crowds.
Coastal
Trincomalee
Known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites, Trincomalee is a great spot for relaxation and exploration.
Check for seasonal weather.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Rice and Curry
A staple dish featuring rice served with a variety of curries, often found in local eateries.
→ Try different curries for variety.
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti mixed with vegetables, eggs, and spices, available at roadside stalls.
→ Look for busy vendors for the best taste.
Hoppers
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, often served with an egg or sweet fillings, found in local cafes.
→ Best enjoyed fresh off the pan.
Dhal Curry
A lentil-based curry that is a common accompaniment to meals, available in most restaurants.
→ Pair it with rice for a complete meal.
Fish Ambul Thiyal
A sour fish curry made with goraka, a local fruit, typically served in coastal areas.
→ Ask for the catch of the day.
Pol Sambol
A coconut relish made with grated coconut, chili, and onion, often served as a side dish.
→ Great with rice and curry.
Watalappan
A traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices, found in local sweet shops.
→ Don't miss this sweet treat.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
An ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes and gardens, offering breathtaking views.
Temple of the Tooth
A sacred Buddhist temple in Kandy housing a relic of the Buddha, a significant pilgrimage site.
Yala National Park
Famous for its wildlife, including leopards and elephants, Yala is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Galle Fort
A historic fort with colonial architecture, shops, and cafes, offering a glimpse into the past.
Anuradhapura Ancient City
A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins, stupas, and sacred trees.
Dambulla Cave Temple
A complex of caves with impressive Buddha statues and murals, showcasing Buddhist art.
Ella Rock
A popular hiking destination with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Horton Plains National Park
Known for its unique ecosystem and the famous World's End viewpoint, ideal for hiking.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
Another UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved ruins and ancient structures.
Trincomalee Beaches
Renowned for their beauty and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Nuwara Eliya Tea Plantations
Explore the lush tea estates and learn about tea production in this picturesque region.
Kandy Lake
A serene lake in the heart of Kandy, ideal for a leisurely stroll or boat ride.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
International Arrival
Most international flights arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) or Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI).
CMBBandaranaike International Airport
HRIMattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Domestic Travel
Domestic flights and trains connect major cities, while buses and tuk-tuks are ideal for short distances.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available but driving is on the left side of the road.
Public Transport
Buses and trains are affordable and provide a great way to see the countryside.
Tuk-Tuks
Tuk-tuks are a convenient and fun way to navigate urban areas.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Sri Lanka uses type D and G plugs with a standard voltage of 230V.
Cash
Cash is widely accepted, and it's advisable to carry some for small purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated, especially in restaurants and for guides.
Language
The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least 10 days is recommended to explore the main attractions.