We fell in love with Sri Lanka as soon as we arrived. At the moment, it’s one of our favorite countries to travel to. Sri Lanka has a big diversity and there is something to do for everyone. Mountains, beaches, culture, beautiful nature, and wild animals – that is just some of the things you will experience when traveling around Sri Lanka. Especially if you use our 3-week travel itinerary for Sri Lanka. Below you can find 8 things you must do in Sri Lanka.
1. Visit the amazing Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
The iconic bridge in Sri Lanka is just right outside Ella. After a little hour-walk through the jungle, you will meet the incredible 25-meter high railway bridge. This amazing piece of architecture hides between lush tea plantations and high bamboo trees. So, make the trip and see if you can find the beautiful Nine Arch Bridge.
2. Scenic train rides
The train rides in Sri Lanka are known as some of the most scenic ones in the whole world. Especially the trip from Kandy to Ella (possibly with a stop in Nuwara Eliya) is very beautiful. The diversity in the growth is huge in Sri Lanka and you can’t help but fall in love with the amazing nature when hanging out of the windows and doors of the train. So, don’t miss the scenic train rides of Sri Lanka.
3. Go wildlife spotting
Sri Lanka has rich wildlife – both on land and in the ocean. Elephants, buffalos, and leopards are a must-see on the ground. An incredible way to see these up close is by going on safari in either Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park. It’s a unique experience that you can’t miss when in Sri Lanka. In the ocean, you find dolphins, whales, and turtles. So, one thing is sure the wildlife in Sri Lanka is amazing and something you must do.
4. Enjoy the quietness in Horton Plains National Park
The nature in Sri Lanka is breathtaking. And is one of the things that made us fall in love in the country in the first place. If you are a nature lover like us, Horton Plains National Park in Nuwara Eliya is a must-do on your roundtrip in Sri Lanka. In Horton Plains National Park, you will experience landscapes of grass, forest, and plains. And if you are lucky you will see monkeys, deer, and beautiful birds on your walk through the park.
5. Relax at the beach
Sri Lanka is rich in sights, nature, and culture. But once in a while, you need time to relax. And that is something you can do in Sri Lanka. The beaches along the southern coast are especially worth a visit. Here you will experience turquoise water, lots of sand, and clean beaches. Take some time to relax and enjoy the warm water so you are ready for new experiences in Sri Lanka.
6. Explore Galle Fort
In the 18th century, the Dutch built their headquarters at Galle Fort on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. These beautiful buildings still stand today and are now part of Unesco’s World Heritage. Within the old buildings, you will find modern restaurants, cute shops, and galleries. The atmosphere on the fort and the cozy streets is something you can’t miss when in Sri Lanka. Galle Fort is filled with history but you can also do some shopping and watch magical sunsets.
7. Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock
Sigiriya Lion Rock is an incredible natural site in Sri Lanka. The 200-meter high rock is part of Unesco’s World Heritage – and a must-visit when in Sri Lanka.
The climb will take you a couple of hours – but remember to set aside time to explore the top and enjoy the view. To avoid big tourist crowds and the heat it’s always a good idea to start climbing as early as possible. There are stairs all the way up – so don’t worry. You don’t have to be a born rock climber to climb Sigiriya Lion Rock.
8. Experience the local culture
A must-do when in Sri Lanka is to experience the local culture. Taste the food, visit the markets, and our favorite visit the temples. The one temple we liked the most in Sri Lanka is the beautiful Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. The exterior and interior are stunning and visiting the temple is a perfect way to observe (in quietness) the culture of the locals.
