SRI LANKA
Sacred temples, misty tea fields, wild jungles, and golden beaches: Sri Lanka packs so much variety into one island. You can climb ancient ruins at sunrise, sip tea in the cool highlands, ride one of the world’s most scenic trains, and end the day watching turtles at sunset.
The Cultural Triangle in the north and the beaches on the south coast show just how diverse this country is. Here, history, culture, and nature come together in a way that makes every stop feel rewarding. Join me as I share stories, itineraries, and practical tips from our month-long journey around the island.
Why Visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, and for good reason. It’s compact, affordable, and incredibly diverse. In just a few weeks, you can explore ancient cities like Anuradhapura. You can also hike mist-covered trails in Ella, spot elephants on safari, and relax on the coast of Sri Lanka at palm-fringed beaches.
What made it truly special for us was the mix of local life and hospitality. We stayed in homestays and travelled on public transport in Sri Lanka — yes, those crazy buses and iconic trains! Along the way, we tried endless curries and hoppers, which gave us a glimpse of everyday Sri Lankan cuisine and culture. It’s not always easy. The chaos and constant negotiating can feel overwhelming. But it’s also what makes travelling in Sri Lanka unforgettable.
Planning Your Trip to Sri Lanka
We spent one month in the country, travelling independently on a budget, and discovered both the highlights and the hidden corners. If you have less time, don’t worry — you can still enjoy some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in just 1–3 weeks with the right itinerary.
Start with our 1-Month Sri Lanka Itinerary for the ultimate route, covering temples, tea fields, and beaches. Or check out our individual destination guides — from Kandy and Ella to Mirissa and Unawatuna — for detailed tips, things to do in Sri Lanka, and personal experiences.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s weather is shaped by two monsoon seasons, which makes planning a little tricky — but also means there’s always somewhere good to visit.
- West & South Coasts + Hill Country (Dec–Mar): Best months for beaches like Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Hiriketiya, plus the tea fields around Nuwara Eliya and Ella
- East Coast (Apr–Sep): Arugam Bay, Trincomalee, and Pasikudah shine in the opposite season
- Shoulder Months (Apr & Oct): Weather is mixed, but prices are lower, so it’s great if you’re flexible
Tip: January to March is the sweet spot for first-time visitors: clear skies, calm seas, and great conditions for exploring.
Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka
Travelling Sri Lanka is an adventure: hiking Adam’s Peak, taking the scenic Kandy–Ella train, spotting wildlife, or trying delicious street food. Things don’t always go as planned here, so having travel insurance is a must.
We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, designed for long-term travellers and digital nomads. It’s affordable, flexible, and covers you not only in Sri Lanka but also in other destinations if you’re combining it with a wider Asia trip.
What’s included:
- Medical emergencies & hospital stays
- Trip delays, cancellations & lost baggage
- Adventure activities like hiking and surfing
- Scooter & motorbike accidents (a common way to travel in Sri Lanka)
At around $56.28 per 28 days, it renews automatically until you cancel. Everything can be managed easily online.
Don’t let the unexpected spoil your journey. With good coverage, you can focus on enjoying Sri Lanka’s temples, tea fields, and beaches without stress.
