From endless white-sand beaches of the south, to lush tropical jungles of Yala, from misty mountain towns of Kandy to the verdant tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, from ancient World Heritage sites such as Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and Sigiriya that are littered throughout the country to the lip-smacking food, Sri Lanka is quintessential. 

The best part is that the trip to Sri Lanka is affordable and offers a variety of experiences in one short trip! 

Let’s start with the Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide!

SRI LANKA VISA

Citizens of most countries need to apply for an E-visa also known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)  for Sri Lanka. This is a seamless and straightforward process wherein visitors need to fill up a basic form with information and pay the fees. The visa can be obtained here.

Costs for Sri Lanka E-Visa 

Double Entry: 

For SAARC Countries: $20 (INR 1600)

Others: $50 

Business visa with Multiple Entry:

For SAARC Countries: $30 (INR 2400)

Others: $55

Once the ETA application is submitted, it takes a few minutes to receive the e-visa on your email address.

FLIGHTS TO SRI LANKA

Flights to Sri Lanka are quite affordable from India, with one-way flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai to Colombo starting at around $150 – $350 (INR 12,000 – 28000).

Visitors will fly into Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo. There are many carriers that fly from many countries to Colombo. Their national airlines – Sri Lankan Airlines has direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai in India. Other carriers that fly into Colombo are Spicejet, Air India, Vistara and Indigo from many cities of India.

How to get from Colombo Airport to the city?

The airport is about 32 kilometers from the centre of the capital and it’s best to take a taxi to your hotel. The time duration is approximately 40-45 minutes depending upon the location of your hotel.

More affordable option is the Colombo Express bus that connects the airport to the city. There could be a wait time of up to 30 minutes so as to accommodate maximum tourists. The tickets can be bought in the bus itself from the bus conductor using local currency. The bus runs between 5:30 am to 8:30 pm.

GETTING AROUND IN SRI LANKA

There are many ways to get around Sri Lanka – train, bus or taxi. How to travel in Sri Lanka out of these options around Sri Lanka depends on your budget, where you want to go, and how much time you have. If you are short on time, it is best to hire a taxi and driver between most of your destinations. If budget is the constraint then choosing the train is ideal.

Sri Lanka by train

Sri Lanka has an excellent transportation infrastructure, including trains that connect the south to the north and the east to the west. All the major cities and towns are well-connected. These trains are comfortable, mostly on time, and are a great way to explore the country. Trains are the primary mode of transportation between cities in Sri Lanka.

Railway tickets in Sri Lanka can be booked via the official website here. You can also use this link, especially for Train Tickets From Kandy to Ella.

Make sure you book train tickets at least a month in advance, especially during the season time as the seats get filled quickly.

Within cities, tourists can use tuk-tuk, taxi and app-based taxi – Uber.

SRI LANKA ITINERARY

If you are a backpacker with time on hand, I would suggest spending 2 weeks in Sri Lanka. However, if you are a tourist wanting to explore the highlights of Sri Lanka, then I would suggest at least a week in Sri Lanka. Check out these itineraries as part of the Travel Guide to Sri Lanka.

One week Sri Lanka itinerary

Day 1:  Explore Colombo

Day 2-3: Trip to Anuradhapura

Day 4: Day trip to Sigiriya

Day 5-6: Day trip to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya

Day 7: Day trip to Galle

2 weeks Sri Lanka itinerary

Day 1: Explore Colombo

Days 2 – 4: Dambulla, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura

Days 5 – 7: Kandy and Nuwara Eliya

Days 8 – 10: Ella, Yala

Days 11 – 13: Galle fort, Mirissa

If you are a traveller interested in certain types of tours in Sri Lanka, such as adventure, heritage or beaches, then itineraries can be customised accordingly. Some travellers cover only North Sri Lanka or South Sri Lanka and that is also doable.

Since I wanted to explore the heritage of Sri Lanka, this was my itinerary covering most of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka.

Heritage Circuit in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Colombo (Independence square, Lotus tower, Galle face beach)

Day 2: Explore Habarana and Minneriya National Park

Day 3: Anuradhapura

Day 4: Polonnaruwa

Day 5: Sigiriya

Day 6-7: Kandy

Read in detail here : Heritage Highlights of Sri Lanka

Adventure Circuit in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Colombo (Independence square, Lotus tower, Galle face beach)

Day 2: Kandy

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya 

Day 4: Horton Plains

Day 5-6: Ella

Day 7: Bentota

WHERE TO STAY IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.

Average price per night for stay:

Hostels: $15

Guest Houses: $20

Hotels: $30 – 50

Please find the recommendations for stays in Sri Lanka, divided by location and sorted by price (lowest first) below.

Colombo

Stay Lost & Found Hostel

I heard about this hostel from a lot of backpackers, and they had great reviews about it. It can be booked here.

City Stay By Sunrise

Located 1.5 km from Kollupitiya Beach, City Stay By Sunrise has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. All the rooms have a balcony. It can be booked here. 

Taj Samudra

One of the most luxurious properties in Colombo, the hotel is located right across Galle Face Beach. The property has a pool, spa and indoor game options. 2 restaurants cook up quite a storm with lip-smackingly delicious Sri Lankan and global cuisine. 

I stayed here for a night and it was extremely comfortable and cosy. The buffet dinner and breakfast spread were amazing!

The property can be booked here. 

Kandy

Kandy Backpackers Hostel

Located very close to the city centre and just 1 km from the Kandy lake, Kandy Backpackers’ Hostel has air-conditioned dorms and private rooms.. It also features stable and complimentary WiFi access and private parking, a common lounge, rooftop terrace, small library, shared kitchen and a year-round outdoor pool. The property can be booked here.

Mahaweli Reach

Situated on the banks of the Mahaweli River, this is a luxurious property. With lush gardens and a huge swimming pool, the hotel is popular among the locals for weddings too.

The rooms are extremely spacious and comfortable at Mahaweli Reach. And the food buffet at breakfast and dinner is incredible too. They even have live music at dinner, making it a very special dining experience. The property can be booked here.

Mountbatten Bungalow

Mountbatten Bungalow is a restored colonial villa that still has its rustic charms. A 12-room property overlooking Kandy town, the surroundings of the property are a forest area and tea gardens.

The best feature is the 6 garden chalets that give a feeling of living in a forest guest room. The property can be booked here.

Habarana / Dambulla

Habarana is a great option while exploring heritage sites. One can choose to stay in the Dambulla or Habarana area and do day trips to Dambulla caves, Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. 

New Dambulla City Hostel

Located in Dambulla, there is a garden, shared lounge, terrace and free WiFi. They also offer an Asian breakfast. The property can be booked here.

Jetwing Lake Dambulla

A sustainable property that is perfectly located along the tourist sites, I stayed here for 3 nights, exploring the world heritage sites. It is an idyllic property with amazing views of a lake from all rooms. A huge infinity pool is also alluring. The food is delicious with a mix of Sri Lankan and world cuisine. 

The property can be booked here.

Ariya Rest House

It is a family-run homestay near Polonnaruwa. The food was one of the best I had during my entire trip to Sri Lanka. There are various rooms that sleep 2 pax, 3 pax and even 5 pax. The rooms overlook a beautiful homegrown garden. Highly recommended! The property can be booked here.

BUDGET FOR SRI LANKA TRAVEL

The amount of money you spend in a country completely depends on how soon you book your flight tickets, the number of days you plan to stay, the kind of hotels you stay in, the type of restaurants you visit, and the amount of shopping you do. However, Sri Lanka is an extremely affordable country in general.

You can find nice luxury hotels for less than $100 per night. Hostels can be hit or miss, so if you’re on a budget, I suggest opting for Airbnb apartments in Colombo and guest houses in Polonnaruwa.

Food is incredible everywhere you go. I could go to Sri Lanka for just the food! You can get delicious street food for $1-$3. Sit-down meals at nice restaurants cost approximately $7 – 10 per head.

Renting a car with a driver costs approximately $100 for 1 day. You can negotiate the cost of excursions with tour agents or guides. Rates are competitive and affordable. 

SRI LANKA FOOD GUIDE

Sri Lanka travel guide cannot be complete without the mention of food!

When it comes to food in Sri Lanka, it is a culinary heaven that’s sure to tantalise your taste buds. Sri Lankan cuisine has a rich history, blending elements of Portuguese, English, Malay, Indonesian, Indian, and other Southeast Asian cuisines.

While fish and meat is found in most of the Sri Lankan traditional food, there are ample varieties of vegetarian dishes. South Indian dishes such as Dosa and Idli with sambar are found almost everywhere. 

If you are wondering what to eat in Sri Lanka or the best Sri Lankan food to try, then check out this list. I am sticking to the most popular vegetarian options, since I am a vegetarian, but there are many meat options too. Food travel guide to Sri Lanka.

Rice and Curry

Rice and Curry is the national dish of Sri Lanka and the staple food. It is eaten for meals. In restaurants, there are generally 3 types of rice – boiled rice, fried rice and red rice. And curry is generally dhal (lentils) or chicken curry. There are ample side dishes like salads.

The best way to eat it is, scoop everything on a plate. Mix the rice and curry, and keep having side dishes in between the bites. The local way to eat it is to mix everything, add the pappadam and eat it with your hands.

Kottu Roti

An extremely popular Sri Lankan street food dish is kottu. It comprises shredded pieces of Sri Lankan godamba roti, which is flaky, and is stir-fried with an assortment of spices and a choice of vegetables or sometimes meat.

Egg Hoppers

Hoppers, which are also known as appa, are an iconic food of Sri Lanka. It uses a pancake-like batter which is made with all-purpose flour and coconut milk. The hoppers are cooked in small “wok” like rounded pans so the dough cooks thick and soft on the bottom, and thin and crunchy around the edges. An egg is added in the middle until it cooks.

String Hoppers

String hoppers are made from a thicker rice flour-based batter, squeezed into thin noodles, and then steamed. String hoppers are normally eaten for breakfast or dinner, along with a variety of different curries.

Sambol

Sambol is a condiment that accompanies Sri Lankan rice, curries and flatbreads. It looks like a salad cum chutney and can be dry or watery depending upon the main ingredient. There are at least 3 sambols served during a Sri Lankan meal. There are different types of sambol – coconut, onion, gotukola (pennywort), beetroot, and so many others. Sambol is made by cutting or pounding the main ingredient and adding spices, salt and coconut to it.

King Coconut

Lining the side of the streets is the orange colored coconut called the king coconut. They are sweeter and even cheaper than packaged water bottles and so refreshing in this hot and humid country!

Woodapple Juice

Woodapple juice in Sri Lanka is extremely popular. It is served with traditional Sri Lankan food in restaurants. It tastes similar to tamarind.

Fruits

Being a tropical country, Sri Lanka is home to a diverse array of fruits that are both delicious and nutritious. Some of the most popular fruits grown in the country include pineapple, watermelon, rambutan, jackfruit and mango. Fruits are generally offered as dessert with most meals, served with honey or plain.

I had the sweetest and juiciest pineapples here every day for breakfast and dessert, and they should not be missed.

Tea

Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) is one of the world’s leading producers of tea. Tea is part of the social culture in Sri Lanka and is offered post-meal or during the day. Black tea, milk tea, as well and ginger tea are all popular and widely available choices.

It is typically made from black tea leaves, which are grown in the mountains of Kandy and nearby areas. The tea leaves are hand-picked and then processed using traditional methods. The resulting tea is rich in flavour and aroma, and is often served with sugar or honey. It is considered a symbol of hospitality and is often served to guests as a sign of welcome.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SRI LANKA

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the late winter to spring season, specifically December through March. These months offer dry and comfortable weather, making it ideal for exploring the country’s many historic sites and cultural attractions. 

Avoiding the summer months can also help you avoid the high temperatures and humidity that can make sightseeing more difficult.

WHAT TO PACK FOR SRI LANKA

When planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it’s important to consider the cultural customs and climate of the country. As it is a relatively conservative country, it is best to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites such as temples.

When visiting religious sites, you need to cover your shoulders and knees. Outside of the religious sites, sleeveless tops, shorts, or knee-length dresses are mostly fine.

In terms of climate, summers can be quite hot, so it’s essential to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Pack light and airy clothing that can help you stay cool during the daytime. Always carry a reusable water bottle, preferably with a water filter, to keep yourself hydrated. Other items to consider packing are a small first aid kit. 

LANGUAGE

The main language spoken in Sri Lanka is the Sinhalese language, also called Sinhala. It is spoken by the majority of the population and is used in official government and educational settings. Tamil is also widely spoken and understood, particularly in urban areas. 

Most locals can speak English, so you can get by without using Google Translate on the streets and tuk-tuk.

Key Phrases in Sri Lanka

Hello – Ayubowan (Aayu-bo-wan)

Thank you very much – Bohoma Istuti (Bo-hoh-mah Iss-too-tee)

Yes – Ow

No – Naa

Please – Karunakara (Karu-nah-kara)

How much is it – Meeka Kiyadha

Okay/Very Good- Hari Hondai

How are you?- Kohomadhe

I Don’t Speak Sinhala- Singhala Danna Naa

Wait a Minute – Poddak Inna

What is your name – Nama mokakda

My name is – Mage nama

Delicious – Hari rasai / rasavat

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SRI LANKA

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Yes! Sri Lanka is a great destination for tourists for many reasons – from ancient civilisations, incredible wildlife, tea plantations, a stunning coastline and delicious cuisine. Although many people opine that it is very similar to Tamil Nadu and Kerala in India in terms of culture, food and nature. But only when you travel here do you know the difference.

The country also has a visa-free or e-visa process available. This makes it easy for travellers to plan their trip and obtain the necessary documents within a short period.

Finally, Sri Lanka is a budget-friendly destination, with the cost of travel being relatively low. With a daily average travel budget of around $50-75 per day, travellers can enjoy all that the country has to offer without breaking the bank. All of these factors combined make Sri Lanka an excellent destination for tourists.

Is travel to Sri Lanka safe?

Yes! Sri Lanka is considered a safe destination for tourists. Incidents of violence against tourists are rare. Although the country is currently facing economic and political issues, the tourism industry is running fairly well, and they are promoting the country with great discounts at hotels. I visited in November 2022 and did not see any issues in Sri Lanka.

It’s worth noting that as in any other place, tourists should always be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their personal belongings, especially in crowded areas or on public transportation. Avoid carrying a lot of cash, and keep copies of your passport and other important documents in a safe place. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone in isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

Overall, Sri Lanka is a safe destination for tourists, and by following basic safety precautions, travellers can have an enjoyable and memorable experience exploring the country’s rich culture and history.

How many days do you need in Sri Lanka?

As mentioned in this Sri Lanka travel guide multiple times before, when planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it’s important to consider how much time you have available and what you want to see and do. A typical itinerary for a first-time visitor should be 7-10 days in Sri Lanka, allowing you to see the main highlights of the country.

Do you need a guide in Sri Lanka?

The small island is proud of eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, and one can understand the history well if there is a guide with you. Although tourists can hire local guides at each tourist destination who offer services in many languages, I suggest that having a guide for the entire trip is beneficial, as one can visit some offbeat spots. The guides also know good places to eat and stay. Check out some of the guided tours – Colombo Guided City Tour by Tuk Tuk.

I highly recommend Marcus Fernando, who has tons of knowledge about every site and place. He can be reached at +94 777305587.

Is travel to Sri Lanka cheap?

Yes. Owing to the currency conversions (320 Sri Lankan Rupee LKR ~ 1 USD ~ 80 INR) and lower cost of living, it’s more budget-friendly to travel to Sri Lanka. If you opt for budget-friendly accommodations such as homestays or guesthouses, you can expect to spend less than $50 per day.

What should you avoid in Sri Lanka?

It is advisable to avoid drinking water from the tap. Always ask the hotel staff for filtered drinking water. In Sri Lanka, the restaurants, hotels and cafes give the option of serving water hot or cold with every meal. This water is not chargeable. 

Drinking culture in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a strong drinking culture – beer was introduced by foreign captors, and it has stayed here ever since. The island’s two staple forms of alcohol are lager and arrack. Arrack is a distilled alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of coconut flowers or sugarcane, or grain.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON SRI LANKA TRAVEL GUIDE

In conclusion, Sri Lanka is an excellent destination for travellers who are looking for a unique blend of culture, history, food and adventure. Also, the country is budget-friendly and easy to navigate, with a well-developed transportation infrastructure, making it easy to get around between cities. Additionally, Sri Lanka is considered a safe destination for families and solo female travellers.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO SRI LANKA

• Carry your refillable water bottle. Thankfully, most hotels in Sri Lanka use a glass water bottle for guest rooms, so it is easy to fill up your bottle while travelling. Avoid purchasing PET water bottles unless necessary.
• Do not trash the heritage site with wrappers and uneaten food. Use designated areas and the right-colored bins for disposing of waste.
• Be mindful of all the signs and follow them respectfully.
• Do not feed the local monkeys.
• Respect the ancient structures of temples and other structures by not sitting on them.
• Respect the places which prohibit photography.
• Do not write on the pillars and walls of archaeological sites and temples.

I hope this Sri Lanka travel guide helps you plan a trip to the island country. Do you have more questions? Write to me in the comments below and I will reply.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Planning a trip to Sri Lanka and not visiting a national park is impossible. With national parks present in close proximity to most tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, Minneriya is worth exploring.

Sri Lanka has many elephant safari parks and visitors can choose the one nearest to the city they are visiting. 

While Yala National Park is the most popular one because of the possibility of sightings of leopards, the Habarana area is equally interesting because of its proximity to 3 national parks – Minneriya National Park Safari, Kaudulla National Park Safari, and Hurulu Eco Park.

However, out of the three, Minneriya is the most popular because of the largest congregation of Asian elephants in one place.

Minneriya is close to Colombo and Kandy and a day trip is possible for wildlife enthusiasts from both these cities.

WHERE IS MINNERIYA?

Minneriya National Park is a national park in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Situated in the heart of the popular cultural triangle of Sri Lanka that covers Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Anuradhapura, this elephant safari park in Sri Lanka is refreshing.

The topography of the park is comprised of scrub plains and mixed evergreen forests alongside rocky outcrops and wetlands, providing a range of habitats to suit a variety of animals.

Set against the breathtaking Minneriya Reservoir, the national park paints a spectacular picture. It is a wildlife photographer’s dream come true with ample opportunities of seeing elephants up close and personal.

HISTORY OF MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK SRI LANKA

The reason for declaring the area as protected was to protect the catchment of the Minneriya reservoir and the wildlife of the surrounding area.

The reservoir is of historical importance, as it was built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century.

Minneriya was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938 and then was designated as a national park in 1997.

WILDLIFE OF MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK

The wildlife in Minneriya National Park includes 24 species of mammals, 160 species of birds, 9 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 26 species of fish, and 75 species of butterflies. While Asian Elephants are the hero and are easily seen, other animals seen are Sloth bears, Spotted Deer, Mongoose, River crocodiles, Grey Langurs, and Purple-faced Leaf monkeys.

The bird diversity in Minneriya is varied with many terrestrial and wetland birds making the national park their home. Painted stork, Brahminy Kite, Fish Eagle, Serpent Eagle, and different types of owls reside here.

ALL ABOUT MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI

Why is Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka famous?

Elephants are loved by one and all. And getting a chance to see them up close and personal is probably on the list of every wildlife enthusiast. I have had the opportunity to see elephants in India in Manas National Park, Assam, Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, and Periyar National Park, Kerala.

But what I saw in Minneriya was a different experience altogether!

A huge herd of elephants against the Minneriya Reservoir paints a spectacular landscape. 

The elephants are quite comfortable with jeeps full of humans photographing them, unlike the ones in India who may charge on vehicles when they are with their young ones. So much so that they come pretty close to the vehicles while grazing.

Best time to visit Minneriya Elephant Gathering

Minneriya is popular for the elephant gathering and if you want to see that then the best time to visit the elephants in Minneriya National Park is between May and September with its peak in August and September.

Safari Timings

Minneriya offers two types of safaris. 3 hours and 6 hours (or half day). Visitors can choose the time: 6 am or 3 pm as per their suitability for the 3 hour safari.

The ideal duration of Minneriya Safari is 3 hours.

This duration is counted from the entrance of the national park entry gate to the exit. Visitors can exit early but late exit is not allowed.

Safari vehicle

The vehicles used for the safaris are open jeeps.

These jeeps have a capacity of seven pax and a reserved seat for the driver cum guide. Unlike the safari jeeps in India, these jeeps are bigger, bulkier, and sturdier, because of the elephant safari.

Visitors are allowed to stand up and hold on to the bars on the roof of the jeep. The holding bars are a lifesaver because the road inside the national park is extremely bumpy.

The jeep has a rain cover in case it rains, so the photography gear is always safe.

Minneriya National Park Safari cost and Inclusions

The safari cost in Minneriya is 65 USD per person. The half-day safari costs 95€ per person. Children under the age of 5 do not have to pay, while children under 11 pay a special rate.

This price includes a private jeep, park entry fees, a certified driver cum guide, the driver’s entry fee, the jeep entry fee, the national park VAT tax, the national park service fee, and free pickup from hotels in Minneriya and Habarana. The price for a pickup from hotels near Sigiriya or Anuradhapura starts at 8 USD.

During the tour, the driver cum guide drives along set paths in the park sighting the wildlife and birds. The drivers will get you as close to the elephants as possible without endangering the visitors or the elephants.

Minneriya National Park Accommodation Options

Since Minneriya is situated in the Sri Lankan heritage trail, it is best to stay at Habarana and commute to the park. The commute is approximately 30-40 km depending upon which property you choose.

I stayed at the beautiful Jetwing Lake Dambulla. A sustainable property, they offer birdwatching trails and have amazing bird diversity in their resort. The infinity pool overlooking their private lake is their best feature. The resort can help you book the tickets for the Minneriya national park or arrange another safari such as Wasgamuwa Safari. It can be booked here.

Other accommodation options here include:

Liyya Water Villas

Habarana Village by Cinnamon

Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka

How to reach Minneriya?

Colombo to Minneriya is 160 km and takes 4-5 hours to reach. Most visitors prefer to combine Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Dambulla and Sigiriya with Minneriya. So it is ideal to start from Colombo and do a road trip to all these places.

By Flight

If you are only covering the national park then the nearest domestic airport to the national park is Sigiriya Airport which is 24 km away. It takes around half an hour to reach the national park from the airport via a private cab. 

By Rail

Sri Lanka has a really good network of railways across the country. Galoya Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station which is at a distance of 23 km and one will take around half an hour to reach the national park from here.

By Road

One can take buses or hire a private taxi from any major city in Sri Lanka to reach the Minneriya National Park.

Minneriya National Park Experience

After a half-day tour of Polonarruwa, we reached Minneriya around 3 pm. 

As we waited for the guide to get our documents vetted, I heard a rustle over my head. I craned my neck to check if it is a bird. A half-eaten fruit fell on me and I saw face almost as if with humiliation. It was a Giant Squirrel nibbling on something.

We entered the national park and crossed a small dam over a river, into a dense forest. A lot of jeeps were queued up, looking in one direction. They were all looking at a Serpent eagle. But it flew away with all the commotion.

A few meters ahead, a trumpet made the jeeps hit the brake. A tusker was happily tucked in the bushes and was playfully tugging at the shrubs.

The driver drove further and we gasped out a breath as we saw many elephants against the reservoir. As we went close it was hard to believe that I was actually looking at over 70 elephants together. 

The elephants were playing, grazing, and meandering in the grasslands of Minneriya. 

I couldn’t make up my mind. Should I click the mother-baby duo or the big herd against the landscape, or should it be the tusker or the 3 adolescent female elephants crossing the road? Should I click with my telephoto lens or capture videos from my phone to quickly share on my social media? 

As these thoughts gripped me and left me overwhelmed, a few elephants started walking in our direction. They stopped around 10 feet from our jeep and kept on grazing.

My heart skipped a beat as I tried my level best to keep a steady camera for videos.

We spent over 40 minutes taking in all the beauty of elephants and capturing the many ‘awww’ moments.

Our driver drove further on the bank of the reservoir and we could finally see some birds. A flock of Painted Storks, many Brahminy Kites, and a Grey-headed Fish Eagle. It was perfect!

Just as the sun started setting, it started to drizzle. All I could think about was the incredible safari we had. Words cannot describe how much I loved it. And just then a Black-backed Jackal crossed the road. We turned around and gave some nice solo shots!

FAQs FOR MINNERIYA SAFARI

Is the Minneriya Safari ethical?

Yes, I felt Minneriya National Park  Safari was extremely ethical. At no point did the driver of any jeep get too close to the elephants. The animals always had the space they need to move freely and undisturbed.

How many National Parks are in Sri Lanka? 

There are 26 National parks in Sri Lanka. Minneriya is one of them which conserves Asiatic Elephants. 

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL TIPS

• Do not get down from the jeep ride in the national park as it is against the rules.
• Avoid wearing perfume or body spray with a strong scent. It distracts wild animals.
• Wear camouflage colours that will easily blend with the jungle – shades of green, brown and grey.
• It is totally understandable to get excited when you spot a wild animal in the jungle. But do not make noises – whisper if necessary.
• You may carry water and snacks in the care but do not dispose of plastic or leftover food in the jungle. Keep it in your bag or gypsy and dispose of it safely once you return to the hotel.
• Do not feed anything to wild animals.

Disclosure: I was invited by Destination Sri Lanka to explore Minneriya National Park Safari. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and my own. Special thanks to the team for taking take of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Kandy in Sri Lanka is not only a popular destination among international tourists but also a local’s favorite. 

Situated only 3 hours away from Colombo, Kandy is surrounded by mountain ranges and sprawling tea gardens which makes it a crowd-puller. For me, the visit to Kandy city made me reminisce about my visit to Munnar, in Kerala India.

Thanks to the relatively cool weather, exploring the colonial buildings and religious sites makes it an even more desirable destination in Sri Lanka. 

THINGS TO DO IN KANDY

The bustling hill city of Kandy is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka.

Whether you are spending one or two days in Kandy, there is enough to keep the visitors busy. Kandy things to do include something for everyone. There are options for hiking, cultural entertainment, nature walk, temple run, and culinary trails. Some of the best places to visit in Kandy are:

Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya

The Royal Botanical Gardens of Kandy is a locals’ favorite and there are many reasons for it. A vast land of soothing greens that offers peace, calm, and relaxation; it is a must visit in Kandy.

As the name suggests, the garden was exclusively reserved for Kandyan royals to stroll across the area. However, with the passing years and throughout the long history of Sri Lanka and its rulers, the gardens kept turning bigger and better.

Currently, the garden is home to over 4000+ species of plants and trees, some of them endemic and the rest of them foreign.

Royal Botanical Garden is spread over 147 acres of land and there are over 10,000 trees that attract over 1.2 million visitors.

While walking through the entire area could be exhaustive and time taking, there are golf carts or buggies available for 60 minutes. This ride showcases the highlights of the garden in the comfort of a vehicle.

Must visit places in Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya

Double Coconut Palms

The biggest seeds that ever saw in my life! Imported from Seychelles these coconut palms take over 5 years to mature.

Sri Lanka-shaped Lake

This is quite an attraction and it is fun to identify places visited in Sri Lanka.

Bamboo Forest

The largest bamboo in the world has made its home here. These bamboo can reach up to 30-40 meters and 20-25 cm in diameter.

Palm Avenue

Although there are 3 palm avenues, each one is insta-worthy. The road in the garden is lined with palm trees on both sides and makes for a beautiful pathway.

Great Lawn

This undulating lawn is also one of the highlights of the garden. The green is literally till the eyes can see.

Orchid House

A stunning and colourful display of various types of orchids in an in-house display surely captivates the visitors.

Spice garden

Sri Lankan spices are quite famous and a representative display is showcased here with trees of pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, etc.

Entrance fee: 2,000 LKR 

Timings: 7:30 am to 6:00 pm (Open all days of the year)

Tooth Relic Temple, Kandy

The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. Pilgrims from all over the country pay their visit here annually.

While for tourists it is one of the must-visit places in Kandy because of its stunning interior. Ornate wood carvings, beautiful marble statues, elaborate wall paintings, and history is sure to make visitors intrigued about this place. 

Temple of the Sacred Tooth and Royal Complex (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is the number one attraction in Kandy.

The temple was built between 1867 and 1707 specifically to honor the most important sacred relic – a tooth of Buddha brought to the country in the 4th century. The tooth, which is enclosed inside several golden boxes is covered in jewels.

Inside the main shrine, devotees slowly move through the various rooms to the casket, while chanting Sanskrit mantras. They give their offerings including flowers and pray in this extremely spiritual place. 

The casket can be seen three times a day during the daily service also known as Theva. The early morning service timings are 5:30 am, mid-day service timings are 9:30 am, and evening service timings are 6:30 pm. Each service lasts for about one hour and each service has different purposes and rituals.

My visit to the Tooth Relic temple in Kandy was timed to visit the evening service. 

The beating of Hewisi drums started exactly at 6:25 pm which indicated that the service was about to begin. On the ground floor, we saw the temple monks walking from their chambers into the tooth relic temple. 

As I appreciated the old temple premises and how well it was kept, we were told to move to the upper floor where the casket containing the tooth relic is located.

A big table with fresh flowers overlooked an elaborate square that has a carpet and an elephant tooth. Beyond the square in a silver door and I assumed that is where the casket would be as everyone’s cameras were pointed toward it.

Visitors cramped for space with their camera phones on video mode while some locals clad in complete white clothes chanted some shlokas.

After approximately 15 minutes, the silver door opened from the inside, the casket was visible. I paid my respects and moved on to give space to others.

The next hour was spent exploring and understanding the various places in the temple complex.

If you visit during the annual Esala Perahera (Festival of the Tooth), you may see the tooth’s gilded casket paraded around the city on bejeweled elephants. The festival is conducted in the month of July or August every year and is a week-long holiday that honors the Sacred Tooth Relic and the four ‘guardian’ Gods Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Goddess Pattini.

Entrance fee: 1,500 LKR (for SAARC nations) and 2,000 LKR for others

Timings: 5:30 am to 8:00 pm (Open all days of the year)

Tip: Wear white clothes and cover your shoulders and knees.

Walk around Kandy Lake

In the heart of Kandy is Kandy Lake with a backdrop to many of the city’s major attractions including the Temple of the Tooth Relic. In the middle of the lake is a tiny island with a few palm trees, making it the most photographed place in the town.

The artificial lake was built in the 18th century by Sri Wickrama Rajasinha, the last ruler of the kingdom of Kandy.

The idyllic lake is the perfect place to watch the sky change its colours while the city goes about its daily routine. Or one can walk on its periphery which is close to 3km. 

The advantage is that the lake periphery passes near the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

So add this to your things to do in the Kandy list and get going!

Entrance fee: Free

Timings: Always open

Visit the Kandy Buddha Statue

The Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Kandy.

It is the biggest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. At 88 feet, this statue is nestled within the hilltops, in the shadow of the Knuckles mountain range. The top can easily be reached by car or motorbike, and a small climb up the stairs will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city.

Entrance fee: 250 LKR 

Timings: 6:30 am to 8:00 pm (Open all days of the year)

Explore the Three-Temple loop of Kandy 

While the Sacred Tooth Relic temple is the most important of Kandy’s temples, it’s definitely not the only temple worth visiting. 

Three temples namely Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Lankathilaka, and Embekke form the aptly named ‘three temple loop’, and are a testament to the long-living history of Sri Lanka’s extensive Buddhist heritage and craftsmanship.  

Situated a bit away from the town center, these are often missed by visitors. But I highly recommend you visit them.

Gadaladeniya Vihara

Gadaladeniya Viharaya is a 14th-century temple built of stone on a rock cliff. The central temple building is unique in that it is built entirely of sculptured granite, except for two shikharas which are built of brick, and sits on a massive stone slab.

Lankathilaka

Perched on a rocky outcrop, this 14th-century temple is one-half Buddhist, one-half Hindu, and incorporates a number of historically significant relics, including a seated Buddha image, rock-face inscriptions featuring both Sinhala and Tamil section, and stone Elephant figures. 

Embekke Devalaya

This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Mahasen. The temple is famous for its carved wooden pillars. Each carving is fascinating that depicts humans, animals, and geometric patterns. 

Entrance fee: 1,500 LKR for each temple

Timings: 5:30 am to 7:00 pm

Enjoy a tea-sipping Geragama Tea Factory

Being a small island country, Sri Lanka is the fourth largest producer of tea in the world.

With good weather and fertile soil, Sri Lankan tea is very famous.

Visiting a tea garden and seeing tea being produced is one of the best things to do in Kandy.

Geragama Tea Factory is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka and conducts one-hour guided tours on the tea production process.

On the tour, we learned how the tea pickers pluck the leaves, saw the cleaning and processing of tea, and tasted various teas. The detailed explanation also included grading, colour, and types of tea.

Having been to a tea factory in Manas, Assam, and in Kerala, Silver tea and Golden tea were a big revelation to me.

The names are given based on the colour of the tea buds that are considered premium tea and believed to have even more health benefits than green tea.

Entrance fee: Free. Tips encouraged.

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm 

Get the bling at Gem museum, Kandy

Sri Lanka is a land of gemstones. With over 25 gemstones being mined from the country, it is only fair to visit a gem museum.

While there are many gemstone stores in Kandy that have an in-house museum, we visited the Handuni Gems and Jewellery Museum and store.

The visit started with the showcase of a short documentary demonstrating the mining process. 

This is followed by a visit to the gallery which shows the kind of gems found here.

Visitors are also encouraged to visit the workshop and see craftsmen working on the gemstones. 

Visitors are then escorted to their shop.

Entrance fee: Free

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Pay a tribute at the Kandy War Cemetery

Kandy War Cemetry is a military cemetery just like the other 6 commonwealth war cemeteries all over the country.

It is the resting place for soldiers of the British Empire who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War. 

I think this is an excellent place to visit to immerse in the nation’s history while paying tribute to these courageous soldiers.

Entrance fee: Free

Timings: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm

Walk the Streets of Kandy

The best way to explore a town is on foot – filling the nostrils with fragrant flowers, the ears with the hustle and bustle of the road, and the mouth with roadside snacks.

The streets of Kandy center are filled with old colonial buildings and street vendors. Start in the city center and wander around the old streets, enjoying a King coconut, street graffiti, or even appreciating the colonial buildings.

Immerse in Kandian culture through a Kandy dance performance

Sri Lanka has a rich culture which is showcased through its art and culture.

A cultural dance performance is conducted highlighting the country’s religious, folk and acrobatics. 

High on local folk music, ethnic wear, and spectacular dance move all in perfect harmony, the performance is nothing less than a spectacle.

This is one of the best things to do in Kandy.

Entrance fee: 2,000 LKR

Timings: 5:30 am to 6:30 pm

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR KANDY | ONE DAY TRIP FROM KANDY

White water Rafting at Kitulagala or Ulapane

For adventure seekers, the waterways in Kandy have water sports in store for you. 

While Ulapane is closer to Kandy (about 30 km), Kitulagala is 60 km. This is a perfect way to have some fun in the rapids of Sri Lankan rivers.

Kandy to Ella Train

Kandy is the starting point of one of the world’s most beautiful train routes – and features on many bucket list items.

A 4-7 hour journey through the picturesque tea plantation hills connecting Ella is getting everyone excited. And rightly so.

The blue carriages passing through rolling tea hills, spectacular waterfalls, and dense jungles make for epic views.

Ella Rock Hike is also popular among adventure enthusiasts if you are going to Ella then it is worth exploring!

Sigiriya

Only a three hours drive from Kandy, Sigiriya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Also known as Lion Rock, it is an enormous 200-meter square-shaped rock.

One of the best ways to experience these Sri Lankan UNESCO world heritage sites is by hiking to the top at sunrise.

THINGS TO DO IN KANDY | KANDY TRAVEL GUIDE PRACTICAL TIPS

How to Reach Kandy from Colombo

There are a number of ways to complete the scenic 110km trip from Colombo to Kandy, including by train, bus, and car. 

Train

Colombo to Kandy is a 3-hour journey that passes some pretty spectacular scenery; over narrow ledges and through dense forests. Being a busy route, there are many trains that run daily between these two stations.

Bus

The bus also takes approximately takes the same time as the train. The roads are smooth and comfortable and pass through the countryside.

Car

If you are traveling in a big group with lots of luggage, I would suggest you hire a car. 

How to get around Kandy

Tuk-Tuk

For going from Point A to B, there are apps such as Uber and Pick Me.

The best way to explore the outer temples of Kandy and Peradeniya Gardens is to hire a tuk-tuk for the entire day. But do negotiate fares before you get in the tuk-tuk in Kandy, as they may overcharge tourists.

Best Time to visit Kandy

Being a hill station, Kandy enjoys good weather all throughout the year. However, to get the best of Kandy world, the best time to visit Kandy is between December to March. 

From May to July, and from October to December, the region experiences its two monsoon seasons, during which time the weather is wetter and more volatile.

Where to stay in Kandy, Sri Lanka?

Being a popular tourist town, Kandy has many types of accommodations to offer. There are luxurious resorts, hotels, and hostels to stay in the city center to explore everything easily. Or one can choose a lush property or a bungalow in the rolling tea gardens, away from the city, and enjoy better views.

We spent 2 nights in Kandy and to experience the best of both worlds, we spent one night in the town close to the city center and the other one in the hills.

Mahaweli Reach

Situated on the banks of Mahaweli river, this is a luxurious property. With lush gardens and a huge swimming pool, the hotel is popular among the locals for weddings too.

The rooms are extremely spacious and comfortable Mahaweli Reach. And the food buffet at breakfast and dinner is incredible too. They even have live music at dinner making it a very special dining experience.

You can book Mahaweli Reach here.

Mountbatten Bungalow

Mountbatten Bungalow is a restored colonial villa that still has its rustic charms. A 12-room property overlooking Kandy town, the surrounding of the property is a forest area and tea gardens.

The best feature is the 6 garden chalets that give a feeling of living in a forest guest room.

You can book Mountbatten Bungalow here.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR THINGS TO DO IN KANDY

• Kandy is a hill town and so it is best to avoid polythene bags so do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
• Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.
• Since most religious places follow Buddhism, respect their dress code – white or light-colored clothes and covering shoulders and knees. remove footwear before entering temples.
• Tips are encouraged in public washrooms near areas of interest, for performers, and even for guides.
• The entire Kandy town is situated around the forest so there are many wild animals in the area. If you spot it, please give some space for them to peacefully pass.

I hope this Kandy travel guide on Things to do in Kandy will help you to plan your trip. Did I miss out on any places to visit in Kandy? Let me know in the comments below.

Read more posts from Sri Lanka

Minneriya National Park

One week in Sri Lanka

Disclosure: I was invited by Destination Sri Lanka to explore Kandy. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and of my own. Special thanks to the team for taking take of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Heritage sites? Yes

Mountains? Yes

Tropical jungles? Yes

Wildlife? Yes

Delicious food? YES!

Sri Lanka is an amalgamation of everything making it a perfect vacation for adventure seekers, heritage enthusiasts, wildlife lovers and families who want a peaceful getaway or staycation.

If this is your first time planning a trip to Sri Lanka, I would suggest spending at least one week in Sri Lanka to cover the highlights. 

Although my last blog covers a detailed Sri Lanka Travel Guide, this blog covers a one week Sri Lanka itinerary covering a bit of everything based on my visit.

SRI LANKA ITINERARY | SRI LANKA TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the late winter to spring season, specifically December through March. These months offer dry and comfortable weather, making it ideal for exploring the country’s many historic sites and cultural attractions. 

Avoiding the summer months can also help you avoid the high temperatures and humidity that can make sightseeing more difficult.

Sri Lanka Visa

Citizens of most countries need to apply for an E-visa also known as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)  for Sri Lanka. This is a seamless and straightforward process wherein visitors need to fill up a basic form with information and pay the fees. The visa can be obtained here.

How to get to Sri Lanka

Being an island country, the only way to get to Sri Lanka is by flight. The country is well serviced with all the major airlines in Asia. Visitors will fly into Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, that is at Katunayake, 30 km north of the capital Colombo.

Flights to Sri Lanka are quite affordable from India, with one-way flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai to Colombo starting at around $150 – $350 (INR 12,000 – 28000). 

Their national airlines – Sri Lankan Airlines has direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai in India. Other carriers that fly into Colombo are Spicejet, Air India, Vistara and Indigo from many cities of India.

Transport in Sri Lanka | How to get around in Sri Lanka

Transport within Sri Lanka has many options  – train, bus or taxi. How to travel in Sri Lanka out of these options around Sri Lanka depends on your budget, where you want to go, and how much time you have. 

The best way to travel in Sri Lanka is to hire a taxi and driver between most of the destinations. If budget is the constraint then choosing the train is ideal. Within the city travel can be taken up by tuk-tuk or Uber (app based taxi).

Sri Lanka has an excellent transportation infrastructure, including trains that connect the south to north and east to west. All the major cities and towns are well connected. These trains are comfortable, mostly on time, and are a great way to explore the country. Trains are the primary mode of transportation between cities in Sri Lanka. Colombo to Ella by train is a very popular train route.

Railway tickets in Sri Lanka can be booked via the official website here. 

Make sure you book train tickets at least a month in advance, especially during season time as the seats get filled quickly.

Accommodation in Sri Lanka | Where to stay in Sri Lanka

Accommodation to suit any budget can be found in Sri Lanka, from luxury hotels to affordable backpacking hostels. 

Being an extremely tourist friendly country, the accommodation options in Sri Lanka are very good, clean and affordable. One can find nice luxury hotels for less than $100 per night. Hostels can be hit or miss, so if you’re on a budget I suggest opting for AirBnB apartments in Colombo and guest houses in Polonnaruwa.

HOTELS + GUESTHOUSES | Search for the best hotels and guesthouses as follows:

READ | My suggestion on where to stay in Dambulla –  Jetwing Dambulla Review

ONE WEEK IN SRI LANKA ITINERARY (HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS)

Here’s a detailed map of one week in Sri Lanka itinerary, that was mostly concentrated in the heart of Sri Lanka. It covers each aspect of our three week Sri Lanka itinerary below and will help you plan the ultimate Sri Lanka trip.

DAY BY DAY ONE WEEK IN SRI LANKA ITINERARY

DAY 1 | Arrival in Colombo and exploring the city highlights

Visitors will probably arrive in the morning to Colombo leaving them an entire day to explore the highlights in Colombo. It is best to stay the night to rest and recoup and leave early in the morning on the next day.

Places to visit in Colombo in 1 day include:

INDEPENDENCE SQUARE | Independence square, also known as the Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument in Sri Lanka. It was built to commemorate the country’s independence from British rule in 1948. Lion structure in stone guards the square beyond which there is a recreational park and manicured lawns where families now enjoy their evenings.

LOTUS TOWER | One of the popular tourist attractions in Colombo, Lotus Tower stands at 350 meters. The design is inspired by the Lotus flower which symbolizes purity within Sri Lankan culture. A revolving restaurant is the highlight of the tower. Other things in the tower include a communication museum, supermarkets, food courts, hotel rooms, and ballrooms. The view of the Indian ocean from the tower is another highlight not to be missed.

GALLE FACE GREEN | Galle Face is an ocean-side urban park, overlooking many luxurious resorts. Visiting at sunset is the best way to spend time. Pick some snacks from the local street vendors and end the day with the beautiful sunset. 

PETTAH MARKETS | Situated in one of the oldest parts of Colombo, Pettah markets sell everything from fresh produce to clothing. There is no dearth of shopping for Sri Lankan souvenirs and trying some local street food.

JAMI UL-ALFAR MASJID | Located in Pettah, this Red mosque is extremely popular. Built in 1908, the mosque’s tall minarets and domes in unique colour patterns and architecture makes it a must visit in Colombo. 

NATIONAL MUSEUM | A good place to get an understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich and diverse history, from ancient kingdoms to colonial times. Owing to the sheer size and information of the museum, one will require atleast a couple of hours here.

VIHARAMAHADEVI PARK | Situated next to the national museum of Colombo, it is Colombo’s largest public park. The beautiful colonial-era Town Hall is exactly in front of this park.

WHERE TO STAY IN COLOMBO

Lost & Found – Colombo

A lovely local house turned into a guest house, there are 3 rooms up for grabs. It is centrally located, is air conditioned and and serves delicious food. It can be booked here.

Alma Boutique Hostel – Colombo

Located 34 km from Bandaranaike International Airport, the hostel is an 8-minute walk from Bambalapitiya Beach and less than 1 km from Bambalapitiya Railway Station. Nearby attractions include Barefoot Gallery and The Independence Square. It can be booked here. 

Taj Samudra

One of the most luxurious properties in Colombo, the hotel is located right across Galle Face Beach. The property has a pool, spa and indoor game options. There are 2 restaurants that cook up quite a storm with lip-smackingly delicious Sri Lankan and global cuisine. 

I stayed here for a night and it was extremely comfortable and cozy. The buffet dinner and breakfast spread was amazing! The property can be booked here.

DAY 2 | Visit Ridi Viharaya and Rock Cave Temple of Dambulla

Leave Colombo and head north to Ridi Viharaya. Also known as the Silver Temple, it is a 2nd-century Buddhist temple. It is a perfect amalgamation of nature, history and religion in one place. Overlooking the unparalleled mountains, the temple has a rest house where devotees can stay and meditate. 

Timings – 7:00 am – 7:00 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – Free

After spending the morning in Ridi Viharaya, head to the cave temples of Dambulla. Dambulla is the famous royal rock temple complex that is home to some of the most impressive historical artwork in Sri Lanka. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cave temples are atop a 160m rock and contains five separate caves with over 150 Buddhist statues and paintings. There are murals and sculptures depicting Buddha’s life.

The views from the top are incredible, overlooking the surrounding valley, with Sigiriya in the distance.

On the foothills of the cave mountain is a Golden Buddha temple that is also popular.

Timings – 7:00 am – 7:00 pm every day (ticket counter closes 5:00 pm) 

Ticket Cost – LKR 1,500 (USD 4.8)

WHERE TO STAY IN DAMBULLA 

Dambulla City Hostel

Located in Dambulla, there is a garden, shared lounge, terrace and free WiFi. They also offer Asian breakfast. The property can be booked here.

Jetwing Lake Dambulla

A sustainable property that is perfectly located along the tourist sites, I stayed here for 3 nights exploring the world heritage sites. It is an idyllic property with amazing views of a lake from all rooms. A huge infinity pool also is alluring. The food is delicious with a mix of Sri Lankan and world cuisine. 

The property can be booked here.

DAY 3 | Mihintale and Anuradhapura

Known as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale, it was here that the Indian missionary Mahinda, met and converted King Devanampiyatissa in 247 BC, establishing Buddhism as the island’s state religion. One needs to climb stairs to reach the peak and there are many sites on the peak to visit, ancient monastery, stupas, statues, Arhat Mahinda Cave, etc.

Timings – 7:00 am – 5:30 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – 1000 LKR (USD 3.25)

The ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is famous for having the ruins that are preserved really well of the Sinhala civilization. It has the second-highest stupa and remains an influential site of worship. Some of the must visit places in Anuradhapura are Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, Jetawanaramaya, Isurumuniya temple, The Star Gate of Ancient Anuradhapura, Vessagiriya Buddhist forest monastery complex, Samadhi Buddha statue, Abhayagiri Stupa, Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone) and Eth Pokuna.

Timings – 7:00 am – 5:30 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – 25 USD

WHERE TO STAY IN ANURADHAPURA

It is best to stay put in the Dambulla / Habarana area and do a day trip to Anuradhapura. Check out the suggestions above. 

DAY 4 | Polonnaruwa and Minneriya National Park

Polonnaruwa was the old capital of Sri Lanka and was built between the 10th and 12th centuries. It is now surrounded by an abundance of greenery where the ancient and sacred ruins of Polonnaruwa such as temples, religious buildings, palaces, and water tanks lay still. It would be ideal to spend 2 days in Polonnaruwa, however the highlights can be covered within less than a day. Places to visit in Polonnaruwa include – The Royal Palace of King, Council Chamber, Kumara Pokuna (The Royal Bath), The Sacred Quadrangle, The Vatadage, The Hatadage, The Atadage, Nissankalata Mandapa, Galpota (Stone Book), Rankot Vihara, Siva Devalaya and Gal Vihara.

Timings – 7:00 am – 5:30 pm every day 

Ticket cost – 25 USD

After spending half a day in Anuradhapura, head to Minneriya National Park to watch the largest gathering of Asian Elephants against the breathtakingly beautiful Minneriya Reservoir. Other than elephants, there are chances of sighting leopards and many other birds and mammals.

Best to visit Minneriya is between May and September with its peak in August and September. Minneriya offers two types of safaris. 3 hours and 6 hours (or half day). Visitors can choose the time: 6 am or 3 pm as per their suitability for the 3 hour safari.

Timings – 6:00 am – 6:00 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – 65 USD

WHERE TO STAY IN MINNERIYA

It is best to stay put in the Dambulla / Habarana area and do a day trip to Polonnaruwa. Check out the suggestions above.

DAY 5 | Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Kandy

Next stop on this Sri Lankan itinerary is one of the must visit places in Sri Lanka : Sigiriya. While some people love exploring Sigiriya in the evening to check out the sunset, some prefer the morning because it’s cooler and much more comfortable. One can easily spend half a day climbing the steep 1200 steps, explore the caves at base, cave paintings at the tops, appreciate the views from the peak and come back.

Sigiriya is an ancient palace and fortress. It was built in 480 AD atop a unique rock island that rises 200 meters above the jungle below.

Also known as ‘Lion Rock’ which is also its literal translation, Sigiriya is full of myths and legends from the bygone era. It is also a representation of triumphs and defeats, and the historical importance of Buddhism to the local area. 

Timings – 6:00 am – 6:00 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – 30 USD

WHERE TO STAY IN SIGIRIYA

It is best to stay put in the Dambulla / Habarana area and do a day trip to Sigiriya. Check out the suggestions above. 

Drive 90 km to Kandy to reach Sri Dalada Maligawa also known as Tooth Relic temple. It is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka and devotees from all over the country pay annual visits here. Visiting this temple is one of the best things to do in Kandy. It has a stunning interior, with ornate wood carvings, beautiful marble statues, elaborate wall paintings, and an amazing history.

Timings – 5:30 am – 8:00 pm every day 

Ticket Cost – 2000 LKR (USD 6.5)

DAY 6 | Kandy City Sightseeing

Kandy is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country. This is exactly why it is featured in one week in the Sri Lanka itinerary.

There is no dearth of places to visit in Kandy, as there are options for hiking, cultural entertainment, nature walk, temple run, and culinary trails. Some of the tourist places in Kandy include:

ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS OF PERADENIYA | As the name suggests, the garden was exclusively reserved for Kandyan royals but with time it kept getting bigger and became open for the locals. The garden is spread over 147 acres of land and there are over 10,000 trees that attract over 1.2 million visitors. 

KANDY LAKE | Kandy lake is an artificial lake that was built in the 18th century. Overlooking the city’s landmarks, the lake which lies in the heart of Kandy is the perfect place to watch the sky change its colours while the city goes about its daily routine. 

KANDY BUDDHA STATUE | At 88 feet, this is the biggest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. The statue is nestled within the hilltops, in the shadow of the Knuckles mountain range. The top can easily be reached by car or motorbike, and a small climb up the stairs will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city.

LANKATHILAKA TEMPLE | Perched on a rocky outcrop, this 14th-century temple is one-half Buddhist, one-half Hindu, and incorporates a number of historically significant relics, including a seated Buddha image, rock-face inscriptions featuring both Sinhala and Tamil section, and stone Elephant figures. 

EMBEKKE DEVALAYA | This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Mahasen. The temple is famous for its carved wooden pillars. Each carving is fascinating that depicts humans, animals, and geometric patterns.

VISIT GEM MUSEUM | Sri Lanka is a land of gemstones, With over 25 gemstones being mined from the country. There are many gemstone stores in Kandy that have an in-house museum, a showcase of documentary demonstrating the mining process, workshop visit and showroom for sale

KANDY CULTURAL PERFORMANCE | A cultural dance performance is conducted highlighting the country’s religious, folk and acrobatics. High on local folk music, ethnic wear, and spectacular dance moves all in perfect harmony, the performance is nothing less than a spectacle.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANDY

Kandy Backpackers Hostel

Located very close to the city centre and just 1 km from the Kandy lake, Kandy Back Packer’s Hostel has air conditioned dorms and private rooms.. It also features stable and complimentary WiFi access and private parking, a common lounge, rooftop terrace, small library, shared kitchen and a year round outdoor pool. The property can be booked here.

Mahaweli Reach

Situated on the banks of Mahaweli river, this is a luxurious property. With lush gardens and a huge swimming pool, the hotel is popular among the locals for weddings too.

The rooms are extremely spacious and comfortable at Mahaweli Reach. And the food buffet at breakfast and dinner is incredible too. They even have live music at dinner making it a very special dining experience. The property can be booked here.

Mountbatten Bungalow

Mountbatten Bungalow is a restored colonial villa that still has its rustic charms. A 12-room property overlooking Kandy town, the surrounding of the property is a forest area and tea gardens.

The best feature is the 6 garden chalets that give a feeling of living in a forest guest room. The property can be booked here.

DAY 7 | Negombo

While this is a heritage highlights itinerary, it is only fair to pay a visit to at least one of the beaches in Sri Lanka. Located closer to the Bandaranaike International Airport, spending half a day or one relaxing day here before catching a flight back home makes sense.

Book a sea front facing resort and get a spa done to rejuvenate for the flight back home. Or catch up on some more sightseeing in Negombo. Some of the places to visit in Negombo are Negombo Lagoon, Muthurajawela Marsh, St. Mary’s Church, Negombo Beach and Negombo Fish Market.

WHERE TO STAY IN NEGOMBO

Jetwing Blue Negombo

Situated right on the Negombo Beach, the hotel provides a beautiful view of the Negombo Beach. One can watch the sunset while the fishing boats go about doing their business. The hotel also has 2 swimming pools very close to the beach. Jetwing Blue can be booked here.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR SPENDING ONE WEEK IN SRI LANKA

• Avoid polythene bags so do not use single-use or disposable plastic. Dispose of biscuit wrappers, wafer packets, and juice boxes in designated bins. Do not litter the highways, places of tourist interest or riverbanks.
• Respect nature during adventure activities and do not harm it in any form. A single cigarette butt can give rise to fires hurting the economy of the entire region.
• Since most religious places follow Buddhism, respect their dress code – white or light-colored clothes and covering shoulders and knees. remove footwear before entering temples.
• Tips are encouraged in public washrooms near areas of interest, for performers, and even for guides.

I hope this guide and itinerary on One week in Sri Lanka will help you to plan your trip.

Disclosure: I was invited by Destination Sri Lanka to explore Sri Lanka. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and of my own. Special thanks to the team for taking care of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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The post One Week in Sri Lanka | Itinerary for Heritage Highlights appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Polonnaruwa is one the must visit places in Sri Lanka.

As soon as we arrived at the entrance of Polonnaruwa from Dambulla, I couldn’t help but notice the uncanny resemblance to Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Just the way there are places spilled across Siem Reap, there are many places to visit in Polonnaruwa as well.

Polonnaruwa was the old capital of Sri Lanka and was built between the 10th and 12th centuries. It is now surrounded by an abundance of greenery where the ancient and sacred ruins of Polonnaruwa such as temples, religious buildings, palaces, and water tanks lay still.

In order to cover the ornate details of each ruin in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom it may easily take 2 days. But if you are someone who wants to explore all the Polonnaruwa attractions or highlights, then this guide could be really helpful.

ABOUT  POLONNARUWA

Polonnaruwa is located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka and is one of the places that form the cultural triangles of Sri Lanka. It is located 220 km from the nation’s capital, Colombo, and around 50 km from Sigiriya.

It has many national parks around it ensuring that it is always green and untouched by civilization.
In 1982, Polonnaruwa was declared one of the 5 UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka.

POLONNARUWA HISTORY

Polonnaruwa became the capital of Sri Lanka at the end of the 9th century after the first capital, Anuradhapura was invaded and destroyed. 

Polonnaruwa was known as “Jananathapuram” and was ruled by the Chola dynasty. After serving as the kingdom of the South Indian Chola Dynasty for three centuries, it was recaptured by the Sinhalese King Vijayabahu I in 1070. 

In Vijayabahu’s kingdom, Polonnaruwa became successful and brought prosperity. The next king to rule was Polonnaruwa King Parakramabahu I and under his rule, the city reached its height of power and glory, becoming Sri Lanka’s version of the Gardens of Babylon. 

During the rule of King Parakramabahu, a vast irrigation network with reservoirs that resembled natural inland seas were created, leading to extensive rice farming, earning Sri Lanka the nickname “The Granary of the Orient”.   

Around the 13th century, Polonnaruwa was abandoned, and the capital shifted to where Colombo is present. 

Also Read : One week in Sri Lanka

PLACES TO VISIT IN POLONNARUWA

The ruins of Polonnaruwa are full of architectural and archaeological treasures such as stupas, royal palaces, gates, rock-cut caves, monasteries, and temples. This medieval city is a treasure trove and one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Archaeological museum of Polonnaruwa

The Archeological Museum of Polonnaruwa is the starting point to explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa. This is also where they sell the entry ticket.

The museum in itself is full of exhibits, relics, and artifacts from the bygone era.

A visit to the museum will ensure that visitors have an understanding of the sacred city – how there were different areas dedicated to the fort, the monastery, the kitchen, and other areas.

The Royal Palace of King 

The Royal Palace was known as the Vijayotpaya or Vijayanta Prasada. Mahavamsa mentions that this had a thousand chambers.

At seven stories tall, it was believed to be the tallest building in the era. At present, there are remains of three stories. 

There are crevices and sockets on the thick brick walls to hold large wooden beams. The massive walls are thicker than one meter, which is probably why it survived the massive fire by invaders. 

Around the palace, there are ruins of many buildings and they are identified to be places for rituals and entertainment as well as rooms for palace aides and storage.

Council Chamber

This is the place where King Parakramabahu used to meet his council members. An inscription found on the stone slab at the upper level of the steps calls this building ‘Raja Vaishyabhujanga Mandapa’.

The chamber’s outer layer has three consecutive tiers with decorated stone tablets/  The bottom layer is carved beautifully with elephants in different postures. The second layer consists of figures of lions, and the top layer has carvings of “Wamana.” 

The roof supported on stone pillars of the uppermost tier was probably wooden and had clay tiles. Unfortunately, they have not survived the time.

Kumara Pokuna | The Royal Bath

Located right next to the Council Chamber lies the Royal Bath, now known as “Kumara Pokuna.” it was part of a royal private garden.

The pond is elegantly built with a cruciform ground plan in such a way that water from the adjacent watercourse is used to drop through spouts shaped like crocodile mouths. The royal bath is also provided with outlets to drain off used water. 

There is also a changing room adjacent to the bath.

The Sacred Quadrangle

The elevated terrace is known as the Dalada Maluwa or the Sacred Quadrangle. It is one of the best places to visit in Polonnaruwa, as is home to over ten magnificent structures, including the Hetadage, Atadage, Vatadage, Image of Boddhisattwa, Sathmahal Prasadaya, and Thuparama. 

This is also the place where the ‘temple of Tooth’ was located before it shifted to Kandy.

As this site offers multiple things to do in Polonnaruwa visitors will be spending a  lot of time here. Beware of the monkeys at the entrance!

The Vatadage

Vatadage is one of the most famous monuments in Polonnaruwa, and it is truly a sight to behold. This two-tiered relic house has an unusual design that is built with part brick and part stone. 

It is said to have housed the “Scared Tooth Relic of Buddha” before it was moved to the Temple of the Scared Tooth in Kandy where it currently rests.

The Vatadage was constructed to safeguard the stupa at its centre. There are four intricate Buddha statues, all facing different entrances of the stupa.

The Hatadage

Hatadage is an ancient shrine that was built by King Nissanka Malla.

Originally, this building seemed to have two stories, but the top floor got destroyed. Inside the temple, there’s a room with three granite Buddha sculptures. 

Visitors can also see some remnants of the Hatadage’s brick and stone walls, but the wooden framework has decayed.

The Atadage

Another attraction that is must see within the Sacred Quadrangle complex is the Atadage. Built by King Vijayanahu I, it is considered the oldest building found in the Sacred Quadrangle.

There’s a granite staircase to get to the second floor of the temple, and initially, there were three Buddha statues, although there’s only one left.

Nissankalata Mandapa

The unusual pillar type indicates a lotus flower in the middle of the mandapa and the pillar is the stalk. 

An inscription confirms that King Nissankamalla listened to Pirith – the recital of Buddhist scriptures. In the center of the Mandapa is a small stone-cut stupa having a truncated top. It is said that it was placed to receive the epic casket during Pirith chanting.

Galpota (Stone Book)

This is a giant inscription on stone done somewhere in the late 11th century. It is said to be the largest stone inscription discovered so far. The letters of the inscription were gilded with molten iron.

This large stone was transported from Mihintale which is over 100 km away from Polonnaruwa. It describes the genealogy of that time and also the heroic tales of King Nissankamalla.

On the side of the stone is the figure of a woman identified as Goddess Gajalakshmi (goddess of prosperity) on whom two elephants are sprinkling water.

Rankot Vihara

No visit to Polonnaruwa is complete without adding a stop at the Rankot Vihara. With 55 meters in diameter, it is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa and the fourth largest stupa in Sri Lanka. 

Built-in the 12th century during the reign of King Nissankamalla, this stupa is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Polonnaruwa. 

The stupa is made entirely out of brick and is extremely well-preserved. Maybe due to its huge structure, it is in excellent condition as compared to others in the area.

Siva Devalaya

Siva Devalaya is one of the Hindu shrines in Polonnaruwa. Known to be the oldest in the area, it was built by King Rajaraja in the 10th century. According to legends, many images of Hindu gods were discovered on this site.

In the center of the shrine is the stone-cut Shivaling where a Brahmin priest performs puja every day. The scent of the flowers and the melodious rhythms of bells makes one forget that you are in a different country!

Gal Vihara

The buddha figures of Gal Vihara are one of the highlights of Polonnaruwa from the 12th century. Carved into a large granite gneiss rock, the images are considered to be one of the most well-known rock-cut Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.  

Also known as the Rock Monastery, this partially man-made gallery is made up of four enormous rock-cut images, all of which are divine to be in presence of. Each carving showcases a different pose and size – thought to represent a different stage in Buddha’s life.

The standing Buddha is 7 meters tall and is the finest of the series. The reclining Buddha depicted entering parinirvana is 14 meters long. The detail here is amazing, notably the subtle depression in the pillow under the head, and the lotus symbols both on the pillow end and on the soles of Buddha’s feet.

The seated Buddha on the far left has four further Buddhas depicted in the torana (ornamental gateway). The fourth Buddha is in a small rock cavity.

POLONNARUWA ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

Polonnaruwa Entry Fees

The entrance fee for Polonnaruwa is USD 25 per person for foreign visitors. SAARC Foreign nationals get a 50% discount on this fee. This fee doe not include entry to the museum.

This fee may come off as steep, however, if you are an architectural enthusiast or history lover, visiting these heritage sites is worth the price. does include entry to the vast museum complex (more on that below) and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins, so we feel it’s 100% worth it.

Best time to visit Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka’s best weather to explore Polonnaruwa’s famous places is between December to March. It is dry and pleasant making it perfect for a day’s exploration and loads of walking in the ruins.

How to get to Polonnaruwa

Our visit to Polonnaruwa was via a private car from Dambulla, where we combined half a day of Polonnaruwa Sightseeing and a half day of Minneriya National Park. 

If you have a lot of time and want to save on transportation, you can opt for a bus. Buses are available from all major towns of Sri Lanka such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, Colombo, and Kandy.

However, they are time taking and in many cases do not provide direct connectivity. There is also the challenge of getting around all the places to visit in Polonnaruwa.

How to get around Polonnaruwa 

Polonnaruwa is spread out over a large area, and it is practically challenging to walk to all the places. Some of the following are great options.

Rent a Bike

It is the best, most cost-effective, and healthy way to explore the Polonnaruwa is to rent a bike. It is a great way to make a pit stop for whatever duration you want and even explore places that are not visited by tourists.

Bikes are available for rent at the entrance to the complex near the museum, or in a town near the bus stop. The cost is approximately 500 LKR per bike per day.

Hire a tuk-tuk

While a bike could be healthy, it still requires effort to paddle. In the right month, it may still be comfortable but tuk-tuk is a better option to cover a maximum ground area in a short time. It offers a great respite against the heat.

The local drivers know the routes and the best places to visit in Polonnaruwa and you just need to sit back and relax. 

The cost is approximately 1,500 LKR per tuk-tuk and can easily sit 3 passengers. The duration is 5-6 hours.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING POLONNARUWA | POLONNARUWA VISIT TIPS

Before visiting the Polonnaruwa ruins, there are a few essential things you need to know:

Hire a Guide at Polonnaruwa

While there are information plates at each site with details, knowing the history, architectural details, and legends from a local guide gives a different perspective on the place.

Also, the way a guide is able to connect all places together in a story will make a lasting impression on your visit. I highly recommend Sri Lanka tourism appointed and approved guide Marcus Fernandes who enthralled us with his plethora of knowledge. He can be reached at +94 777305587.

Take off your footwear and hats

All religious places in Asia require visitors to remove their footwear before entering the main premises. In spite of Polonnaruwa not practicing any worship in most places, visitors are required to remove their footwear because of the presence of idols of Budhha as well as preserve the important relics. Hats and caps are to be removed so as to be respectful.

Wearing socks is allowed and encouraged so as to protect your bare feet in the heat and stones.

Cover your shoulders and knees 

Sri Lanka is a conservative country and visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees before visiting Buddhist sites – especially stupas.

Photos with your back towards Buddha are prohibited

Taking a photo with your back toward the Buddha statue is considered highly offensive. The security at the place will warn you but even if they are not looking, do not pose on purpose. 

Be mindful and respectful of the religious practices in the country you are visiting and take a quick look around so that you are not facing the back. 

WHERE TO STAY IN POLONNARUWA

There are many options for staying in Polonnaruwa. However, I would suggest staying in Dambulla for the ease of getting to Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. I stayed at Jetwing lake Dambulla and which is an idyllic property with amazing views.

I also happened to have lunch at Ariya Rest House which is a family-run homestay. The food was one of the best I had during my entire trip to Sri Lanka. I also checked out their rooms and they were clean and cozy. There are various rooms that sleep 2 pax. 3 pax and even 5 pax. Highly recommended! It can be booked here – Ariya Rest House

Hotels in Polonnaruwa: Hotel Sudu Araliya, Mahanuge Hotel Polonnaruwa

Homestays in Polonnaruwa: Senuri Homestay, Malee Homestay

FAQs FOR PLACES TO VISIT IN POLONNARUWA

Why is Polonnaruwa famous?

Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in the 10th century. It comprises monuments, stupas, and palaces between the 10th and 12th centuries.

Is Polonnaruwa worth visiting?

Yes! Polonnaruwa has beautiful attractions and significant ancient ruins, making it one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

How long does it take to see Polonnaruwa?

One full day is enough to cover all the Polonnaruwa attractions.

Which is better Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa?

It is impossible to compare 2 UNESCO Heritage sites! But that being said the monuments in Polonnaruwa are in better shape than Anuradhapura because Polonnaruwa is much younger than its counterpart. At the same time, the number of monuments in Polonnaruwa is far less than the ones in Anuradhapura and sparsely spread.

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR PLACES TO VISIT IN POLONNARUWA

• Carry your own refillable water bottle. Thankfully most hotels in Sri Lanka use a glass water bottle for guest rooms so it is easy to fill up your bottle while traveling. Avoid purchasing PET water bottles unless absolutely necessary.
• Do not trash the heritage site with wrappers and uneaten food. Use designated areas and right-colored bins for disposing of waste.
• Be mindful of all the signs and follow them respectfully.
• Do not feed the local monkeys.

Disclosure: I was invited by Destination Sri Lanka to explore the country and visiting Polonnaruwa was part of the itinerary. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and my own. Special thanks to the team for taking take of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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The post Places to visit in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka | What to See, Know and Do appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Travel to Sri Lanka is incomplete without a visit to Sigiriya.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a geological marvel that rises in between a jungle. A 200-meter rock that juts out from the flat surface is said to be over a million years old. Whether you are travelling from Colombo or Kandy, ticking off the Sigiriya hike is on every traveller’s list. 

An ancient home to the Sinhalese king and later on a resting place for Buddhist monks, the architecture of Sigiriya is truly a breathtaking sight. This is exactly why it is often said to be the eighth wonder of the world. 

Also known as ‘Lion Rock,’ which is also its literal translation, Sigiriya is full of myths and legends from the bygone era. It is also a representation of triumphs and defeats, and the historical importance of Buddhism to the local area. 

To explore the Sigiriya attractions, one must hike to the top, taking in the beautiful landscapes surrounding the Lion Rock. 

Sigiriya Rock Fortress is always at the top list of first-time travellers to Sri Lanka, and there are many things to do in Sigiriya. This blog covers all of them in detail. Read on.

✦ Pro tip: Get an airport transfer from Colombo airport to Sigiriya.

HISTORY OF SIGIRIYA

The granite block of Sigiriya rock rises abruptly from the surrounding flat landscape. The top is 377 meters above sea level. Around the citadel at the top are two moats, three ramparts, and 20 hectares of elaborately landscaped gardens with boulders and fountains that still work after 1,500 years.

The Sinhalese king Kashyapa I, who was not meant to be a king, reigned over the island country from 477–495. One of the most tragic or notorious figures in Sri Lankan history, King Kashyapa, allegedly attained the throne by assassinating his father and trying to murder his brother. 

In order to protect himself from his brother, who fled to India and built an army, King Kashyapa moved his capital to Sigiriya and built a palace in the shape of a monumental lion, surrounding it with a moat filled with man-eating crocodiles, intending it to be a safeguard against his enemies. 

King Kashyapa lived as a king for 16 years until his brother returned from India with an army. Kashyapa left his palace with an army to meet him. The path to the battle was blocked by a marsh. When Kashyapa turned his elephant to avoid a marsh, his army interpreted this as a retreat and fled. The humiliated Kashyapa pulled out a dagger right there on the spot and slit his throat. The fortress of Sigiriya has been in ruins ever since. 

However, the site soon became a pilgrimage destination, with Buddhist monks meditating here.

WHAT TO SEE AT SIGIRIYA | THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SIGIRIYA ROCK

Sigiriya Museum

Sigiriya Museum is at the base of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and has an impressive collection of exhibits that belong to various periods in history. The museum contains galleries depicting the excavation efforts carried out, which is why it is one of the Sigiriya attractions not to be missed. 

One of the most important features of the museum is the intricate diorama of the site. There are a plethora of artefacts, tools, sculptures, and jewellery from the prehistoric period. 

Entry to the Sigiriya Museum is included in the ticket price, and it’s worth a visit to gain some background context on Sigiriya and its long and varied history. 

My suggestion is to visit the museum after the hike to the summit (depending on the time you select to go up).

Royal Gardens

The Royal Garden at Sigiriya, which leads up to the rock fortress, is fascinating. The green, lush, terraced gardens have water fountains (still in working condition). Above the water garden is a boulder garden with flights of stairs that wind in and out between the giant rocks. Among the boulders are caves used by monks since the 3rd century. 

They’re also considered to be amongst the oldest landscaped urban gardens in the world and made use of the highly advanced technology of the time.

Water Gardens

The water gardens are the first, visitors pass through as they enter the Sigiriya complex. The gardens contain royal bathing pools, pavilions, and small moated islands at the foot of the granite monolith. 

The garden features a series of increasingly large elongated pools of water that collect rain and spring water to nourish the gardens. The water to these gardens is fed by a sophisticated network of underground ducts and hydraulic systems that were engineering marvels for the era.

Boulder Gardens

These boulders once formed the foundations of the monastery the monks of Sigiriya called home centuries ago, and at one point in time, their surfaces would have been adorned with Buddha relics and shrines.

Today, you can still see plenty of evidence of ancient monastic life here along the walls, caves, and rock shelves.

Lion Paw Staircase

One of the most popular things to do in Sigiriya and places to visit in Sigiriya is the Lion Paw Staircase.

A long set of stairs passes through the boulder garden and leads to a massive pair of stone lion’s paws and the lion’s staircase to the summit.

The word Sigiriya means Lion Rock, and the nickname is derived from the two gigantic lion paws that guard a narrow staircase. Ancient chronicles describe the staircase as one of the fortress’s main and important features. 

Based on fragments that remain in the rocks, the crouching lion’s head and shoulders were made from brick mounted on the rock face, with a wooden staircase located beside it.

The Lion’s head collapsed long ago, leaving only these paws and the initial stairs behind. 

It is only up to the imagination of the visitors how the fortress must have looked back then.

Sigiriya Summit

While all the types of gardens at the base of the granite rock are amazing, and the hike up to the summit can be overwhelming, the summit itself is not so great. That is until you know what to look for and haven’t peeked down to the plains. 

The foundations of the seven-story palace with baths, galleries, and a throne room are impressive and make one wonder who transported all the materials on such a steep rock back then.

The final part of the Sigiriya summit can lead to some anxious moments even for the most seasoned hikers. There is a narrow metal staircase that is nailed to the rock. The mist at the tops here can help with anxiety, with faint views of the plains. Thankfully, there are separate stairs for going and coming back, so human traffic jams.

I couldn’t help but turn to my guide and ask if these metal staircases are load tested and audited, given the sheer number of visitors. He laughed and said it is done yearly by experts and engineers.

These metal stairs further lead to an open space, which is the actual summit, and the views of the plains from here are mesmerising.

Frescoes of Sigiriya

The climb down from the summit leads to the wall called the Frescoes of Sigiriya, which is one of the best things to do in Sigiriya.

The Sigiriya frescoes are home to ‘Sigiriya Apsaras’ – 21 women painted on rocks. Apsaras are celestial nymphs that King Kashyapa had in his kingdom. Although the frescoes are faded with time, some of them are still vibrant with beautiful details. 

Photography at Sigiriya Frescoes is banned.

Mirror Wall

Once thought to be so polished that the King could see his reflection in the stone, the mirror wall is a lot less shiny these days.

That doesn’t mean it’s insignificant, though — it’s covered with the scrawls of ancient graffiti by the visitors to Sigiriya over the 1500 years, with poems, visitor impressions, and tributes etched all over it like a huge ancient guest book, dating from as far back as the 7th century.

SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

Sigiriya Rock Entrance Fee

Entry to Sigiriya USD $30 per person.

The Sigiriya ticket office is located next to the car park and near the complex entry, so it cannot be missed easily. The ticket office is open from 6:30 am – 6 pm.

Note: Payment is in cash only.

When to visit Sigiriya Rock | Best Month to visit Sigiriya

Sigiriya is best visited from December to March, which is the dry season, and the weather is generally pleasant. I visited in mid-November, and it drizzled all throughout the day, and there was notable cloud cover that impacted the visibility from the summit.

March onwards, the weather gets hot and humid and will majorly impact the hike.

Do also keep in mind that good weather months draw large tourists too.

Best time of the day to visit Sigiriya

Sigiriya is open between 7 am – 7 pm every day. It is ideal to visit early morning when the weather is pleasant. However, most crowds choose this time, and it may get crowded even if you start at 7 am. 

I heard a lot of tourists say that although it may be hot and humid around sunset, it is a better time to visit due to the negligible crowds and the great sunset view! Worth trying, I would say.

Time taken to climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Although this depends on the level of fitness and time taken to explore every part of the fort base, it generally takes between 60-90 minutes to cover the 1100 stairs.

I spent over 3 hours during my visit with the guide who took us through every nook and corner + explained the importance.

Hiking Sigiriya

Hiking Sigiriya is one of the top things to do in Sigiriya.

The only way to the top of the Sigiriya is via a steep stair climb, the last portion being on very steep metal stairs.

If you have issues with mobility or fear of steep inclines, I would suggest you skip it. You can certainly explore the base but then the entry fees become too much for it.

Photography at Sigiriya Rock

Photography is prohibited in certain areas of Sigiriya, and there are signs portraying the same, such as the Frescoes. Management is very strict on this rule now and has been known to confiscate cameras (without return) if you ignore this.

Sigiriya is also a no-drone zone, and in case you want to fly the drone, you need special prior permission.

Monkey Menace at Sigiriya

There are armies of monkeys in the entire area. While they are harmless and non-ferocious, they are notorious in case you are carrying food. They get attracted to open and closed food packets in hand and will chase you down and snatch them. It is best not to eat food during the hike.

Do not Disturb Sigiriya Wasps

Sigiriya has large wasp nests throughout the grounds and in the rock walls. There are warning signs about wasps in the area, and it is best to keep a distance from them as they may sting you! There have been instances of wasp attacks on tourists in Sigiriya.

The best way to avoid getting stung is by walking very quietly and avoiding aggressive gestures, particularly along the stairs.

THINGS TO DO AROUND SIGIRIYA | DAY TRIPS FROM SIGIRIYA

Sigiriya is part of the ‘cultural triangle’ of Sri Lanka, and most visitors explore Dambulla, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa, as it is the same area. If you are staying near Sigiriya, the following are the possible Day trips from Sigiriya.

Polonnaruwa

Just one hour away from Sigiriya is the ancient capital city of Polonnaruwa. Built between the 10th and 12th centuries, Polonnaruwa was the thriving commercial and religious epicentre of Sri Lanka.

Although the city now lies in ruins, the remnant foundation of civilisation can be explored. Polonnaruwa has a fascinating history and is very similar to the Angkor temples of Cambodia.

Dambulla Rock Cave Temple

Dambulla Caves are yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. It is home to some of the most impressive historical artwork in the country. Spread over five separate caves with over 150 Buddhist statues and paintings, the murals cover every inch of the caves.

✦ Pro tip: If you want to save time book this combined Dambulla & Sigiriya Day Tour from Colombo

Safari at Minneriya National Park

The grassland plains of Minneriya National Park offer an exciting sighting where herds of elephants gather together, sometimes over 150. Overlooking the beautiful Minneriya lake, the giants paint a beautiful picture.

Three-hour safari is available that can be taken in the morning or afternoon, and includes pick up from your accommodation in Sigiriya or Dambulla.

Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala is a historic cave complex that overlooks Sigiriya. It is also a famous hiking spot, giving unparalleled views of Sigiriya.

✦ Pro tip: Book this guided Pidurangala Sunrise/Sunset Hike Excursion

The ruins of the monastery still lie here, and visitors can explore them same.

Also Read: One week in Sri Lanka (Itinerary and Guide)

HOW TO GET TO SIGIRIYA

In order to save time, it is ideal to stay in Dambulla and then travel to Sigiriya by private vehicle.

Getting to Sigiriya from Dambulla

By Bus

From the Dambulla Main Bus Station, buses leave for Sigiriya at regular intervals of 30 minutes. This is a one-hour journey, and the bus drops visitors 10 minutes walk away from the Sigiriya ticket counter.

By Tuk-Tuk

It is possible to hail a tuk-tuk in Dambulla. It takes about 30 minutes and is a better and cheaper option than a taxi.

Getting to Sigiriya from Kandy

If you’re travelling from Kandy, it is best to travel to Dambulla first and then to Sigiriya from Dambulla using the directions listed above.

WHERE TO STAY AT SIGIRIYA

There are many options for staying around Sigiriya. However, I would suggest staying in Dambulla for the ease of getting to Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. I stayed at Jetwing Lake Dambulla and which is an idyllic property with amazing views.

If you are travelling only to Sigiriya, then these are the following options.

Resorts in Sigiriya: Atha Resort, Hotel Sigiriya

Treehouse in Sigiriya: Back of Beyond Pidurangala

Hostels in Sigiriya: One more Night Hostel Sigiriya

Homestay in Sigiriya: Sigiri Rock Side Home Stay

SIGIRIYA HIKING TIPS | THINGS TO CARRY ON SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS

Here are a few items I recommend bringing on your Sigiriya hike:

• Get your water bottle. The hike is exhausting, and you need to hydrate yourself. So, get at least 1 bottle of water.
•  Get your hiking boots on. Although you will see locals in flip-flops climbing up the summit, I strongly recommend wearing a pair of hiking boots or sneakers/trainers for the hike.
• Do not forget your camera. The entire area is beautiful and you must capture the photos.
• Save yourself from the heat. Carry a cap/hat/scarf and sunscreen.

FAQs FOR THINGS TO DO IN SIGIRIYA

Is the Sigiriya ticket price worth it?

The steep price of Sigiriya entry is always debatable. However, the popularity is evident with over a million visitors every year. According to me, the price is worth it as it helps maintain the site and also funds further research, excavation, and conservation.

Does Sigiriya have a dress code?

Sigiriya isn’t a sacred religious site or temple, so visitors can be comfortable wearing shorts. However, keep in mind that the heat depends on the time of the visit, and it is always better to cover up your shoulders. Pants are also better as a protective measure against wasps!

What is the required fitness to hike Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

The climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress is not for the faint-hearted; it’s a pretty gruelling hour-long stair incline in pretty stifling heat and humidity, and it is most likely that even the fittest will find it a sweaty and tiring hike.

However, it is very safe and worth it.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL TIPS FOR THINGS TO DO IN SIGIRIYA

•  Carry your refillable water bottle. Thankfully, most hotels in Sri Lanka use a glass water bottle for guest rooms, so it is easy to fill up your bottle while travelling. Avoid purchasing PET water bottles unless necessary.
•  Do not trash the heritage site with wrappers and uneaten food. Use designated areas and the right-colored bins for disposing of waste.
• Be conservative in clothing, as the country is conservative in culture.
•  Do not feed the local monkeys.

Disclosure: I was invited by Destination Sri Lanka to explore the country, and visiting Sigiriya was part of the itinerary. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and my own. Special thanks to the team for taking care of everything during this trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link, but I get a referral bonus, which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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The post Things to do in Sigiriya | An Ultimate Guide appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Dambulla is a town situated in the Matale District of Sri Lanka and is known for having the largest and best-preserved temple complex in Sri Lanka.

Dambulla is perfectly located at a short distance from Kandy, Sigiriya, and Habarana all of which have heritage sites in Sri Lanka. It is also perfectly located between Minneriya National Park and Kaudulla National Park and a day trip is possible to cover the wildlife.

While there are many things to do in Dambulla and around, it is best to catch a breather here to relax. A staycation at Jetwing Lake Dambulla is the best way to go about it.

HOW TO REACH DAMBULLA

Dambulla is ta the core of Heritage sites in Sri Lanka. It is situated close to Habarana and Kandy. It is ideal to hire a car from the Kandy airport to reach the resort of your choice. Visitors can request the resort to arrange transport for them too.

ALL ABOUT JETWING LAKE DAMBULLA

Jetwing Dambulla is nestled in the offroad from Dambulla town. A road full of tall trees almost resembling a forest, makes way for a humble-looking building.

Our group reached in the evening and the darkness did not do justice to the surroundings. We climbed a floor to reach an open long hallway.

Welcome Drink and Check-in

We were greeted with ‘Ayubowan’ (may you live a long life). And soon enough served with 2 options of welcome drink. I tried both of them and both were delicious. Alas, I forgot what they were.

We waited at the waiting lounge which had a wall full of Sri Lankan trinkets to amuse us. Red, blue, and green miniature tuk-tuks, wooden elephant statues, wooden masks, and a lot more.

The check-in was smooth and easy.

Then, we were briefed about the in-house naturalist and complimentary birdwatching tours offered by Jetwing Lake Dambulla.

A staff accompanied us with our room keys.

On the way to the room in the waiting lounge corner, I saw a board with the details of bird sightings of the day on different trails. I promised to go on at least one during my 3-night stay!

Accommodation at Jetwing Lake Dambulla

We crossed another long passage to reach an in-house bridge overlooking the alluring pool. The tiring day sure made me want to jump in the pool and on inquiring about the timings, there were only 30 minutes left on the pool. I promised to jump in the next day!

There are a total of 94 rooms divided into 3 categories at Jetwing Lake Dambulla. Contemporary rooms with all modern amenities, a stacked mini-bar, and a complimentary fruit platter welcome guests into the property.

In addition to the private balconies, all rooms at Jetwing Lake also include relaxing features that allow guests to unwind. From the plush bathtubs to soak in after a long day out in the Cultural Triangle, or the comfortable seating areas near the floor-to-ceiling windows, our Jetwing group sure knows how to make guests’ stay a memorable one.

Suite

The property houses four luxury suites, that are the epitome of comfort. The suite comes with a separate living area, a bathroom, and a small kitchenette. There is changing room along with the bathroom. The plush interiors with modern amenities make this a really spectacular option for a stay.

The key feature of the suite is the bathtub on the open balcony and a private sit-out.

Deluxe Room

Of the three variants of rooms available at Jetwing Lake, there are 78 Deluxe Rooms that complement the surrounding greenery. A huge room opens into an even bigger balcony overlooking the pool, the lake beyond it, and the mountains in the distance.

The plush bathroom with luxurious toiletries promises the same view as the bathtub.

I was put up in the Deluxe room. I crossed a long hallway to reach my room which was the second to last in the row. On the left huge trees made their presence felt with the chirping of birds. The next morning I spotted an Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Jungle Fowl, Spotted Dove, Oriental Magpie Robin, and a few common birds simply by standing on the balcony.

The first I noticed when I entered the room was drinking water served in glass bottles. I had passed several posters on the property talking about sustainable initiatives and I noticed it in the room.

On the left, there was the bathroom with miniature refillable glass bottles of shampoo and soap. Also, a note if guests wished to reuse the towels to save water.

A king-size bed, a study table, and an alluring balcony with a fantastic view welcome me into my room. It was almost dinner time and I decided to catch an early dinner.

FOOD AT JETWING LAKE DAMBULLA

Jetwing Dambulla offers a Buffet option for breakfast and dinner depending on the package you choose. Since guests mostly spend their days exploring the Dambulla area it is best to go for the MAP plan (breakfast + dinner buffet).

The menu is a combination of Sri Lanka cuisine (comprising veg curries and different types of meat) as well as international cuisine such as continental and Indian in order to cater to all types of guests. A vegetarian and vegan can happily eat here without worrying about their food habits.

The buffet consists of a huge array of bread baskets, soup with flavored butter, chutneys, salads, different types of curries with different types of rice, a live counter serving pasta and kebab, and many types of desserts and fruits.

The breakfast spread is equally good with different types of detox water, fruits with yogurts, curry served with rice or string hoppers or dosa, and other continental dishes. They also offer breakfast on the go and are happy to pack sandwiches and baked goodies.

In case the guests want to enjoy an a la, carte menu there is a Chinese restaurant on the premises as well as a bar.

THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND THE PROPERTY

Although visitors stay here while they are on a cultural tour of heritage sites, a staycation at Jetwing Lake Dambulla is a great option all year round.  is the right call. This section is for visitors who always want to do something even on a staycation (includes me)!

Suwa Arana Spa

Suwa Arana Spa at Jetwing Lake has carefully designed spa experiences that refresh and reinvigorate. With an array of massages and facials, it is surely a great way for the body to relax and detox.

Enjoy the pool

The pool is a refreshing breather after a long day walking around at heritage sites. The pool is always clean and the cold water is amazing. The view is perfect with the lake and mountains as the backdrop. There is also a poo-side bar so guests can order drinks from there.

Dahaiyagala Hike

Mount Dahaiyagala is a rocky escarpment located northeast of the hotel. Located at the height of 400 MSL, the hike takes visitors through the rustic paths of the village, forest, and small reservoirs. The road will take you to the summit that offers panoramic views of the magnificent mountains, lakes, and forests.

Bird-watching on Jetwing property

Thanks to Jetwing lake, there is a thriving population of birds in the resort and around the lake area. If you are a wildlife enthusiast who will be happy clicking away pictures or trying to identify the birds’ species from the balcony too.

It was also so considerate of the staff to put up a barricade on the group around a Red Wattled Lapwing’s nest. Lapwings nest on the ground so the eggs are always threatened.

If guests have more time, then there are a couple of trails on which they arrange birdwatching activities. Siyambalagaswewa Lake Birding Trail is 90 minutes and a 1.5 km walk from the hotel premises.

Village Walk

The best way to see a country is through the countryside and what bets way than taking a walk through Sri Lankan village life.

 Paddy cultivation is the occupation of most villagers and one can walk through these beautiful paddy fields, forests, teak plantations, etc. along the hike, one will be able to observe Sri Lanka’s varied and wonderful biodiversity, geography, cultural diversity, and lifestyles.

Shop for Sri Lankan souvenirs

Sri Lanka souvenirs and Handicrafts mainly made from wood are sold here in the in-house shop.

SUSTAINABILITY AT JETWING

The Jetwing group is conscious of the environment and has inculcated many sustainable values. Some of the initiatives include the type of construction, no plastic policy, solar energy, effluent treatment plant, and others. Let us look at them in detail.

Zero carbon initiatives

An in-house biomass boiler facilitates air conditioning across the property. The boiler produces 2000 kilograms of steam per hour that is used for air conditioning, hot water generation as well in the laundry. The chiller uses less than one-tenth of the electricity of a conventional chiller.

The biomass used is cinnamon wood-fired biomass stoves and all the cooking in the staff cafeteria uses this electricity.

Solar Energy Usage

The property utilizes a 300-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system that takes care of 40% of daily electricity consumption such as heating water.

Effluent water treatment

The property treats 100% of the wastewater generated on the premises through the effluent treatment plant. The ETP has a fully functional biological treatment method and gravity filtration.

Solid waste management

The property has a biogas plant with a capacity to digest 500 kg/day of waste. The methane produced after digestion is used in the staff kitchen to prepare meals. The sludge is used as a soil enhancer.

In order to cater to horticulture waste, the property has a windrow composter. All the collected garden waste is put through the composting process and the compost is used in the organic garden as fertilizer.

No plastic policy

The property owns an onsite semi-automated water bottling plant. The property has scraped using PET bottles but uses glass bottles instead that are refilled in this plant. Even in the kitchen, PET water bottles are not used.

Organic farm

Jetwing Lake Dambulla has an on-site organic farm. This 1.5 acres sprawling farm grows a variety of regional fruits and vegetables that are used in the kitchen. The compost from the property is used here as a fertilizer.

Organic honey harvesting

Jetwing Dambulla hosts 4 bee colonies. The honey collected after a 4-month harvest period is internally used in the kitchen.

FINAL THOUGHTS ABOUT JETWING LAKE DAMBULLA

I had a relaxing time at Jetwing Lake and especially loved the food and birdwatching trails during the short visit that I was there. The resort is extremely beautiful, cozy, and comfortable with delicious food. Based on my experience, I would say that Jetwing Dambulla is one of the best Dambulla hotels here. The staff is friendly and one can easily pick up a conversation with them. The warm hospitality is a warrant I would love to come back and stay here.

Book your Resort in Dambulla

Contact and Bookings: Jetwing Lake

Address: Wijaya Kumaratunga Mawatha, Yapagama, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Jetwing Dambulla contact no.: +94 66 204 0700

Email: resv.lake@jetwinghotels.com

Click here to book a room for yourself!

Disclosure – I was a guest at Jetwing Lake Dambulla as a part of the FAM tour organized by Destination Sri Lanka. However, all opinions in this post are unbiased and of my own.

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running. Pin this Post!

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