Sri Lanka, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Ocean’, is an island country located in the Indian Ocean. It boasts of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 15 national parks, over five lakh acres of tea estates, 25,000 water bodies, 350 waterfalls and 250 acres of botanical gardens. All this ensconced in a culture as old as 2,500 years. From pristine beaches and lush mountains to a diverse culture and eclectic cuisine, Sri Lanka is indeed a melting pot of experiences.
The Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide
Here is all you need to know about your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Chalk out your trip
The best way to explore Sri Lanka is by drawing up an itinerary of things to do and places to visit. The Sri Lankan Tourism website has an array of suggested itineraries that enable visitors to enjoy the attractions offered by this island. These can be easily accommodated to suit your customed itinerary. You can also check out the Sri Lanka trip package from India.
- Apply for a visa online
Since 2012, it has been mandatory for all holiday or business travellers to have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for entry into Sri Lanka. In addition, you need to apply for an “ETA Tourist Visa” online before you enter the country.
The validity of the “ETA Tourist Visa” is for 30 days beginning from the date you arrive in Sri Lanka. Also, make sure to have a return ticket or a visa to the next destination, as this will need to be furnished during the visa process.
- Travel within Sri Lanka
Though a small nation, Sri Lanka’s infrastructure consists of narrow roads coupled with traffic due to pedestrians and automobiles. This can make local travelling slightly difficult. Hence it is a good idea to keep some buffer time while visiting places with fixed visiting hours.
However, the country has a beautiful coastal belt and scenic mountainous terrain where you can enjoy the drive. For travelling convenience, Sri Lanka is well connected by air, rail and bus, along with trishaws and taxis.
- Accommodation and food in Sri Lanka
Accommodation in Sri Lanka is a tourists’ delight. You have the best of places to choose from – hotels, boutique villas, heritage bungalows, homestays, resorts, camping sites and even apartments. These places offer breathtaking vistas, and the prices vary depending upon your requirement.
When it comes to food, Sri Lanka prides itself as a nation of rice and curry. Blessed with tropical produce and seafood, Sri Lankan cuisine is a convergence of Sinhalese, Tamil and European influences. Some of the delectable dishes include Fish ambul thiyal, Parippu (daal), Lamprais (rice in banana leaf), String hoppers (appams), Polos (raw jackfruit), Wambatu moju (brinjal) and Wood Apple juice.
Places to See in Sri Lanka
Steeped in mythology and Buddhism, Sri Lanka offers visitors myriad experiences that are food for the soul. You can enjoy the sun-kissed beaches, as well as go on guided safari tours and walks amidst heritage cities, tea estates and spice plantations. To experience the best of Sri Lankan culture, you can visit Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Sabaragamuwa Province and the Southern Corridor, which houses ancient British and Dutch architecture and religious sites.
While you are here, do not miss some of these must-visit places:
- Galle Fort
- Weligama Bay
- Ella
- Aukana
- Gonagolla Monastery
- Yala National Park
- Polonnaruwa
- Dunhinda Falls
- Hot Water Springs in Wahiawa
Do look up the list of upcoming festivals like Poson Festival, Kandy Esala Perahera and Sancharaka Udawa to name a few, so that you can add them to your itinerary for a dose of Sri Lankan culture.
Travel Insurance
You don’t want your trip to be marred by any unforeseen situation. Hence, it is advisable to avail of an international travelling insurance policy that covers you for medical and non-medical exigencies. You can check out all the companies that offer a travel insurance Sri Lanka policy and choose the one best suited to your needs. Before buying travel insurance, compare insurers and plans and make an informed decision regarding your travel insurance for Sri Lanka.
Summing Up
Sri Lanka has slowly and steadily cast behind the shadow of a long war and has rebuilt itself as a tourists’ haven. With serene beaches, timeless ruins, culinary delights, improved infrastructure and hospitable people, Sri Lanka welcomes you with open arms. So, what are you waiting for? So, pack your bags and say Ayubowan to Sri Lanka.
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