Last Updated: August 2, 2024
Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of amazing things to do. You’ll find it difficult to choose between squeezing one more activity into your itinerary and relaxing at one of its idyllic beaches. We spent two weeks in Sri Lanka and left with a bag full of memories! This country truly has it all and then some, so without further ado, here are 14 Amazing Things to do in Sri Lanka.
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress stands out as Sri Lanka’s crowning jewel. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock fortress, sitting proudly on top of a rock. Reaching Sigiriya Rock requires a climb that takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. It is a calf-burner, but you’re guaranteed breathtaking views once atop it.
Sigiriya Rock ticket booth is open daily from 5 am to 7 pm, and the entrance fee is $36 (roughly LKR 11,000)
A more low-key version of Sigiriya Rock, offering a milder climb and equally stunning views, is Pidurangala Rock. Located right opposite Sigiriya Rock, this outstanding landmark offers heart-stopping views of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Another reason why it’s worth visiting Pidurangala Rock is its significantly cheaper entrance fee, which is LKR 1000 ($3.30).
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its stunning cave complex adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 carved statues of Buddha. Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the country’s oldest cave temples, making it a worthwhile attraction.
It’s an easy 30-minute drive from Sigiriya to reach, and you’ll need approximately an hour to explore. Make sure to dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees.
The entrance fee is LKR 2000.
TIP: If you visit during the peak summer season when temperatures soar, we recommend carrying a pair of socks in your bag to protect your feet from the hot ground since you must remove your shoes before entering the temple.
We recommend this private tour if you’d like to visit both Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple without hassle and have a more personalized experience.
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kandy
The Royal Botanic Gardens of Kandy, located near the city center, is a refreshing escape from the hassle and bustle of the city. This beautiful oasis offers a stunning collection of diverse plant species, including rare orchids and towering palm avenues, amidst beautifully landscaped grounds. A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden in Kandy is hands down one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka, as it boasts a beautiful landscape and an escape from the country’s constant buzz.
The Royal Botanical Gardens’ entrance fee is LKR 3000, and the opening hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Note that the ticket booth closes an hour earlier, at 5 p.m.
RELEVANT READING
Take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella
A scenic train ride in Sri Lanka is a bucket list experience and one not to be missed! One of the most popular train rides in Sri Lanka is the scenic route from Kandy to Ella. The scenery is breathtaking, traversing lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The ride takes 7 to 8 hours, but delays are common, so don’t be surprised if it takes longer.
A scenic train ride is at the top of the list of the best things to do in Sri Lanka, so the tickets sell out quickly, especially during the peak season. We recommend booking your ticket here in advance to ensure availability.
Uncover the stunning waterfalls of Sri Lanka
You’ll be spoilt for choice when finding a magical waterfall nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s unreal nature. There are those found right by the street, those you can swim, and some you can simply admire from afar. If you’re an intrepid traveler, Sri Lanka also offers waterfalls off the beaten path, waiting to be uncovered. Some of the most famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka are the following:
Bambarakanda Falls – the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Known for its breathtaking beauty and surrounding scenery
Diyaluma Falls – one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Sri Lanka, where you can swim and cliff jump.
Ravana Falls – a wonderful waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs amidst lush greenery.
Safari experience at Udawalawe National Park
In Udawalawe National Park, you will encounter an abundant population of elephants. While these majestic creatures dominate the park, you’ll also spot other wildlife, such as buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and various bird species.
It was our first time doing a safari, so we wanted a personalized experience and opted for a private tour. We recommend this tour if you’re going to follow in our footsteps.
One of the best National Parks in Sri Lanka is Yala National Park. It is located in the southeastern part of the country and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants and leopards. Being the most famous National Park in Sri Lanka, Yala tends to get very crowded, so bear that in mind when creating your itinerary.
Delve into Sri Lanka’s sensational cuisine
Sri Lanka’s cuisine is so good that we left the country with a couple of inches added to our waistbands. No regrets!
Curries are the heart of every meal, always served with tasty sides like sambols and chutneys. The fun doesn’t stop there, though. During those rare times when we took a break from the flavorsome curries, we devoured freshly caught fish and seafood. Every dish was like a burst of color and flavor in every bite!
We recommend this excellent cooking class if you want a more hands-on experience with the local cuisine.
Live your best life at Sri Lanka’s exotic beaches
Sri Lanka’s exotic beaches are a haven of natural beauty, with their pristine shores and the palm-fringed coastline. As much as we enjoyed Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, we’re beach bumps at heart, so the South Coast left a lasting impression on us. Head to Tangale to channel your inner surfer or Mirissa for its bustling nightlife. What’s more, Sri Lanka’s beaches offer some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ve ever seen! It really can’t get any better than this.
Visit Galle
Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and historic architecture. It is one of Asia’s best-preserved colonial forts and will impress you the moment you set foot on it. Start your exploration from the stunning Galle Lighthouse and then wander around the picturesque streets. Make sure to stop by Aqua Pizza for a yummy lunch.
We fell head over heels for Galle’s charming, laid-back atmosphere, and we’re sure you will, too!
See Colombo with a private tuk-tuk tour
Colombo, being the capital, lacks the charm that smaller cities in the country do. Having said that, there are a few unmissable attractions worth your time. Traffic can get overwhelming, so one of the best ways to explore Colombo is by booking a private tuk-tuk tour.
We wouldn’t recommend spending more than 24 hours in Colombo, so this private tuk-tuk tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s best attractions in one go.
Take the epic trek at Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park lies in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, a 50-minute drive from Nuwara Eliya. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for its breathtaking landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, misty plains, and lush forests. One of the most famous viewpoints is “World’s End,” where the plains abruptly drop 870 meters, providing awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside. A visit to Horton Plains Nation Park is the best thing to do in Sri Lanka if you love trekking.
The trek takes about 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water with you.
Join a Yoga Class
It’s easy to get excited about exploring as much as possible when traveling, but it is essential to slow down and be more present. Joining a yoga class is a great way to do that and meet new people. Whether it is one of the holistic centers in Ella or beach yoga at one of Sri Lanka’s idyllic beaches, take the opportunity to spend some time connecting body and mind!
We recommend this yoga class in Ella if you’re in the Hill Country and this one if you find yourself by the coast.
Visit a tea plantation
A visit to a tea plantation is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka! You can learn about the fascinating process of tea production and, of course, taste some of the finest Ceylon tea.
Sri Lanka’s history with tea dates back to the 19th Century when the British introduced tea cultivation to the island. Nowadays, Sri Lanka is known worldwide for its famous Ceylon tea.
This tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about tea cultivation and production. At the end of the tour, you can also enjoy a tea-tasting experience.
The tours usually last a few hours; some even allow you to experience tea plucking yourself.
Take surfing lessons
Sri Lanka offers some of the best beaches for surfing in the world! Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we can’t think of a better thing to do in the country than to take a swing at surfing and test your skills on the surfboard.
Finding a suitable surfing coach won’t be a challenge, seeing that surf schools dot the south coast. The challenge will be how long you can stay on the surfboard! Challenge accepted?
If so, we recommend this course, perfect for beginners and more experienced surfers.
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources:
