Sri Lanka
Our Packages Include :
![](https://bleuglaciotrip.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/car.png)
Transfers
![](https://bleuglaciotrip.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/hotel.png)
Hotels
![](https://bleuglaciotrip.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/sightseeing.png)
Sightseeing
![](https://bleuglaciotrip.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/eat.png)
Meals
F
Negombo (1N) - Kandy (1N) - Nuwara Eliya (1N) - Bentota (2N) - Colombo (2N)
F
Sigiriya (2N) - Kandy (2N) - Mirissa (2N)
An Overview of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka: The Teardrop of India
Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a destination that captivates travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From pristine beaches to lush tea plantations, ancient temples to vibrant festivals, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveler.
Best Season to Visit and Seasons to Avoid
Sri Lanka’s climate is complex due to its two monsoon seasons. The best time to visit the west and south coasts, along with the Cultural Triangle, is from December to March. For the east coast, the ideal time is from April to September. During these periods, the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities.
The months to avoid are May to August on the southwest coast due to the Yala monsoon, and October to January on the east coast due to the Maha monsoon. During these times, heavy rains can disrupt travel plans, though the country remains lush and beautiful.
Famous Festival: Sinhala and Tamil New Year
One of Sri Lanka’s most significant cultural celebrations is the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known locally as “Aluth Avurudda,” which takes place in mid-April. This festival marks the end of the harvest season and the astrological new year. The celebrations are steeped in tradition, with families gathering to perform rituals, prepare special foods, and engage in games and activities. The air is filled with the aroma of sweet treats like “kavum” (oil cakes) and “kokis” (crisp, deep-fried snacks). Houses are cleaned and decorated, and the festival is marked by a sense of renewal and unity.
Famous Foods
Sri Lanka’s cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, with influences from its colonial past and neighboring countries:
- Rice and Curry: A staple meal that includes a variety of vegetable, meat, or fish curries served with rice.
- Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made from a fermented rice flour batter, often served with a fried egg and spicy sambal.
- Kottu Roti: A popular street food made by stir-frying chopped flatbread with vegetables, meat, and spices.
- Pol Sambol: A coconut relish mixed with chili, onions, and lime, often served as a side dish.
- Lamprais: A Dutch Burgher-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in stock, served with meat, a boiled egg, and sambals, all wrapped in a banana leaf.
Nightlife
Sri Lanka’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, offering something for every type of traveler:
- Colombo: The capital city is the hub of nightlife in Sri Lanka, with numerous bars, clubs, and casinos. The Galle Face Green is a popular spot for evening strolls, where you can enjoy street food while watching the sunset.
- Hikkaduwa and Mirissa: Coastal towns like Hikkaduwa and Mirissa are known for their beach parties and laid-back bars where you can enjoy live music and cocktails by the sea.
- Kandy: For a more cultural experience, Kandy offers traditional dance performances and serene evenings by Kandy Lake.
Most Attractive Tourist Spots
Sri Lanka is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient rock fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views and fascinating history.
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy: A revered Buddhist temple that houses a tooth relic of the Buddha, attracting pilgrims from around the world.
- Galle Fort: A well-preserved colonial-era fort on the southwest coast, known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and historic buildings.
- Yala National Park: Home to leopards, elephants, and a variety of wildlife, Yala is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka for safaris.
- Ella: A small town in the highlands, famous for its scenic train journeys, hiking trails, and viewpoints like Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak.
- Nuwara Eliya: Known as “Little England,” this town is surrounded by tea plantations and offers a cool climate, colonial architecture, and beautiful gardens.
Main Language
The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making it easy for travelers to communicate.
Garments Suggestion
Due to Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, light and breathable clothing is recommended. However, when visiting religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. A hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection, especially in coastal and lowland areas.
Currency
The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Adventure Tourism
Sri Lanka offers a range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers:
- Surfing: The beaches of Arugam Bay and Weligama are famous for surfing, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
- Trekking: The Knuckles Mountain Range and Horton Plains National Park offer excellent trekking opportunities through misty forests and grasslands.
- White-Water Rafting: The Kelani River in Kitulgala is the go-to spot for white-water rafting, offering a thrilling experience amidst lush surroundings.
Ecotourism
Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems make it a haven for ecotourism:
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.
- Minneriya National Park: Famous for the “Gathering,” where large herds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank during the dry season.
- Whale Watching: The waters off the southern coast, particularly around Mirissa, are prime spots for whale watching, with sightings of blue whales and dolphins.
Religious Sites
Sri Lanka is home to numerous religious sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage:
- Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada): A pilgrimage site sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, where visitors climb to the summit to witness a breathtaking sunrise.
- Anuradhapura: An ancient city that was once the capital of Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved ruins of temples, stupas, and palaces.
- Dambulla Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this complex of cave temples is adorned with stunning Buddhist murals and statues.
Local Crafts and Shopping
Sri Lanka offers unique crafts and souvenirs that reflect its cultural heritage:
- Batik: Colorful fabrics featuring intricate designs, used for clothing, wall hangings, and home decor.
- Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka is famous for its gemstones, particularly sapphires. You’ll find a wide selection of jewelry in cities like Colombo and Kandy.
- Handicrafts: Wooden masks, lacquerware, and woven baskets are popular souvenirs, showcasing the craftsmanship of local artisans.
- Tea: Ceylon tea is world-renowned, and visiting a tea plantation in the highlands is a must-do for any traveler.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Sri Lanka is relatively easy with various transportation options:
- Trains: Sri Lanka’s train network is not only functional but also offers some of the most scenic journeys in the world, particularly the route from Kandy to Ella.
- Buses: Buses are the most common mode of transport, connecting even the most remote areas. They are cheap but can be crowded.
- Tuk-Tuks: These three-wheeled vehicles are a convenient way to get around towns and cities. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- Domestic Flights: For faster travel, especially between Colombo and the east coast, domestic flights are available.
Accommodation Options
Sri Lanka offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets:
- Luxury Resorts: Found along the coasts and in the highlands, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.
- Boutique Hotels: Unique and charming, boutique hotels are particularly popular in Galle and Kandy.
- Guesthouses: Family-run guesthouses provide a more intimate and budget-friendly option, with warm hospitality and home-cooked meals.
- Eco-Lodges: For those interested in sustainable travel, eco-lodges offer an immersive experience in nature, often located near national parks or in rural areas.
Health and Safety
Sri Lanka is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always good to take precautions:
- Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date with routine vaccines, and consider vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies.
- Travel Insurance: It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially for adventure activities.
- Mosquito Protection: Use insect repellent and sleep under a mosquito net in areas where malaria or dengue fever is a concern.
- Street Food: While Sri Lankan street food is delicious, ensure it’s freshly cooked to avoid any health issues.
Cultural Etiquette
Respecting local customs and traditions is important in Sri Lanka:
- Greetings: A friendly smile and a slight bow with hands clasped together in a prayer position (known as the “Ayubowan” gesture) is a traditional way to greet someone.
- Temple Etiquette: Remove your shoes and hat before entering temples, and dress modestly.
- Respect for Elders: Showing respect to elders is deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan culture. It’s customary to address them with honorifics and defer to their wisdom in conversations.
-
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate. Maintain a respectful demeanor, particularly in religious or rural areas.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in restaurants and for service staff. It’s customary to leave a small tip as a gesture of gratitude.
Day Trips and Lesser-Known Destinations
While Sri Lanka’s popular spots are a great start, exploring lesser-known areas can offer unique experiences:
- Jaffna: Located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna is known for its unique Tamil culture, historic temples, and vibrant markets. Don’t miss the Jaffna Fort and the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.
- Trincomalee: A coastal town known for its pristine beaches, hot springs, and the Koneswaram Temple, which offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
- Anuradhapura: An ancient city with a rich history and significant Buddhist sites, including the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, one of the oldest living trees in the world.
- Haputale: A quiet town in the tea-growing region with stunning views, pleasant weather, and nearby attractions like the Diyaluma Falls and the Lipton’s Seat viewpoint.
Visa Policy for Indian Travelers
Indian travelers can obtain a visa to Sri Lanka through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. The ETA allows for a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended for an additional 60 days if needed. The application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Conclusion: The Allure of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a land of enchantment where vibrant culture meets breathtaking natural beauty. From the pristine beaches of the south coast to the ancient cities of the Cultural Triangle, from the lush highlands of Nuwara Eliya to the lively markets of Colombo, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this island nation provides an array of opportunities to explore and enjoy.
The warmth of its people, the richness of its history, and the allure of its landscapes make Sri Lanka a destination that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Embrace the spirit of this beautiful island and let its charm guide you through an unforgettable journey.