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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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.

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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