Sightseeing in Sri Lanka, our 10 highlights on the island
Sri Lanka is a versatile travel destination that beckons with breathtaking nature, fascinating temples and a touch of adventure. For travelers who want to explore the culture and beauty of the island, here are the 10 things you shouldn’t miss in Sri Lanka:
- Sightseeing in Sri Lanka, our 10 highlights on the island
- 1. Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock and Pidurangala
- 2. On safari in Yala National Park
- 3. Diving in Trincomalee
- 4. Surfing in Weligama
- 5. Explore the 9 Arch Bridge and Little Adams Peak in Ella
- 6. Visit to a temple in Colombo
- 7.Aa ride on a local bus and a tuk tuk
- 8.Train ride from Kandy to Ella (or the other way around)
- 9.Try the dishes Hoppers, Curry and Kottu
- 10. Sea turtles in Unawatuna
1. Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock and Pidurangala
The Sigiriya Lion Rock is a spectacular rock with an ancient palace ruin at the top. An equally impressive but less crowded option is the Pidurangala Rock right next to it. Both offer breathtaking panoramic views over the landscape – perfect for unforgettable sunrise or sunset moments. The cost of the Sigiriya Lion Rock is not cheap at USD 35 per person, but combined with the beautiful sunrise it is simply magical. The Pidurangala Rock costs just €3 per person and also leads through a temple complex. It’s definitely worth a visit at any time of day to get a breathtaking view of Sigiriya and the surrounding area.
2. On safari in Yala National Park
Experience the impressive wildlife of Sri Lanka in a national park. These extend across the whole of Sri Lanka and the most frequently spotted animal is definitely the elephant. With around 75 leopards, Yala National Park has the largest leopard population in the world. You can choose between a 12-hour full-day tour or a half-day tour. During the safari in a jeep, you have the chance to observe elephants, leopards, crocodiles and many other animals in their natural environment, so have your camera ready!
3. Diving in Trincomalee
Trincomalee on the east coast is a paradise for divers. Crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs and a diverse underwater world make it one of the best diving spots in Sri Lanka. You can see sea turtles, rays and even the occasional shark. Our favorite spot was definitely Navy Island. We spotted a variety of colorful fish and even two octopuses there.
4. Surfing in Weligama
Weligama on the south coast is perfect for surfers, especially beginners. The waves are gentle and ideal for making your first attempts at surfing. The local surf schools offer courses and board rental for just €1.50 per hour. For €20, you can be accompanied by a professional for 90 minutes, who will teach you all the tips and tricks of surfing. And after a day on the water, you can relax on the beach. Thanks for the photos, Matteo!
5. Explore the 9 Arch Bridge and Little Adams Peak in Ella
Ella is known for its picturesque landscape and the iconic 9 Arch Bridge. A walk to the bridge is a must, especially when the train runs over it. Afterwards, you can climb Little Adams Peak and enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.
6. Visit to a temple in Colombo
Sri Lanka’s capital also has a lot to offer. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple or the Seema Malaka Temple on Lake Beira. Both are important Buddhist sites and offer a peaceful retreat in the middle of the bustling city. No matter which of the two temples you visit first, it is always a combined ticket. This means you only have to pay once, but can explore both temples. Another highlight is the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. During certain opening hours, tourists have the opportunity to learn more about the building on free tours.
7.Aa ride on a local bus and a tuk tuk
To really experience Sri Lanka, you should take a local bus at least once. It’s an exciting experience that gives you the opportunity to get to know the locals better and gain an authentic insight into their everyday lives. The buses are often overcrowded, but that’s part of the adventure! Hold on tight when getting on, during the ride and when getting off, because the rides are like a rollercoaster. The red buses are state-run and have fixed prices. The blue buses are operated by private companies and may or may not be more expensive.
Tuk tuks have become an integral part of Sri Lanka. Everywhere you look, you will find these cute little carts. These are particularly suitable for short trips of up to 30 minutes or for renting to explore Sri Lanka on your own. Sri Lanka is also the only country in the world where there are tuk tuk races and tuk tuk polo.
8.Train ride from Kandy to Ella (or the other way around)
The train route from Kandy to Ella is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Passing tea plantations, dense forests and spectacular waterfalls, the journey is an absolute highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka. Leaning out of the window and watching the landscape pass by is an unforgettable experience. It takes you through towns, villages, past waterfalls and tea plantations before the train travels through the mountains, past Nuwara Eliya and finally stops in Ella.
9.Try the dishes Hoppers, Curry and Kottu
These dishes are typical of Sri Lanka. For breakfast, the dough bowls called hoppers, filled with egg or a delicious daal. For lunch, we continue with curries. These are homemade and the homemade coconut milk in particular makes a real difference. This is because the coconut is first grated and then mixed with water and squeezed to make coconut milk.
The best thing to order for dinner is kottu. Made from a chopped roti mixed with egg, vegetables or meat. If you can’t stand spicy food, you should always say twice before ordering that the food should not be spicy. Because even a little bit of spicy food can be pure torture and you feel like a dragon that is about to spit fire.
10. Sea turtles in Unawatuna
In Unawatuna, you have the opportunity to observe sea turtles. Some hotels and organizations take care of the protection of these fascinating animals and offer tours where you can experience the turtles up close. An absolute highlight for nature lovers! Especially at the right time of year, you can watch the sea creatures lay their eggs or the little babies hatch.
There really is something for everyone in Sri Lanka. We were very pleasantly surprised and can recommend this country to anyone who wants to get to know an incredibly diverse island.
