Sri Lanka (also known as Ceylon) is the pearl of the Indian Ocean, blessed with stunning beaches, natural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage. Sri Lanka has become a favorite destination for tourists. There are some great things to see and do in Sri Lanka. But before visiting, it helps to prepare yourself with these travel tips.
Sri Lanka is located at the southern tip of India. Its capital city is Colombo. This island nation offers a variety of natural beauty as well as historical monuments and art treasures. When visiting Sri Lanka, don’t forget to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kandy, Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple. Sri Lanka has a rich history. For those who love traveling, Sri Lanka is definitely worth visiting.
When traveling, there are certain precautions that should be taken in order to stay safe. These safety tips include avoiding scams, using only reputable tour operators, learning basic English phrases, and always keeping updated on information about vaccinations and other health matters.
Travel in Sri Lanka
Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka
Which time should you visit Sri Lanka? What are the local seasons? Where is the best place to go? Is there something special at certain times of the year?
Visit Sri Lanka at any time of year and enjoy its beautiful landscapes, tropical weather, friendly people, hospitable culture, and delicious cuisine. However, some things may change depending on the season. As spring rolls around, many places begin to open up for tourists. Here’s what to expect from a trip to Sri Lanka in each season.
Spring (March-May)
If you visit Sri Lanka between March and May, you might find yourself surrounded by wildflowers and lush greenery. Many gardens and parks become open for visitors, making it easier to access nature trails. Springtime is one of the best times to go to Sri Lanka if you want to escape urban chaos and relax without breaking the bank.
Summer (June – August)
The summer months bring warmer temperatures and longer days. If you choose to spend a few weeks here during summer, you should try hiking the tea plantations and exploring the city of Kandy. In the evenings, head to nearby beaches along the southern coast for some fresh air.
Fall (September – November)
During fall, the weather becomes cooler and drier than during the rest of the year. You may need to bundle up while walking around cities, but the area’s natural beauty makes up for it. Travelers have reported seeing beautiful sunsets across the country. Many museums and historic sites close for renovations until early fall.
Winter (December – February)
When winter arrives, temperatures drop to freezing. If you’re planning to travel to Sri Lanka during winter, make sure to pack warm clothes. Fortunately, the weather in Sri Lanka never gets below freezing; however, travelers report experiencing snowfall in Kilinochchi.
Autumn (October – December)
Though less popular than spring and fall seasons, autumn brings cooler temperatures and breathtaking vistas. Travelers recommend going to Galle Fort National Park in October or November, since it offers stunning views of surrounding hillsides covered in golden yellow foliage.
All Seasons (April & May and September & October)
Sri Lanka has a diverse climate, meaning you can travel to any point of the country in any given month. April and May and September and October are considered “high season,” though prices decrease slightly. Visitors are likely to find lodging and transportation cheaper in low-season months.
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What to Expect in Sri Lanka
LANGUAGE: Its official language is Sinhala. English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country. The main religion is Buddhism followed by Hinduism and Christianity.
CURRENCY: The national currency is the LKR (Sinhala Rupee)
GETTING AROUND: There are many ways to get around in Sri Lanka. From traveling from place to place by bus or train, to hiring a private driver who knows the routes well, you can choose whatever works best for you.
SAFETY: Sri Lanka is a safe place for travel. It’s not a dangerous place to go because there are many places where people die due to natural calamities or accidents. But still, we have some tips to keep you safe throughout your trip.
Foods and drinks in Sri Lanka
Reflecting on its geographic location, local traditions combined with colonial influences, as well as locally produced tropical fruits and fresh seafood, cuisine throughout Sri Lanka is a culinary treat. Spicy flavors are a result of a plethora of spices used in every dish, whether curry, sambol, or chutney. Coconut plays an integral role in many dishes due to both its flavor and versatility, appearing in everything from salads to desserts.
Some different foods to eat in Sri Lanka:
Curry and rice The staple food in Sri Lankan cuisine, akin to the currys of Southern India and South Asia. Usually contains “Maldive Fish” (a spicy dried tuna) and often also includes “Dhal”, a lentil dish. Meat or fish curry is served with dal, a dish made of split yellow peas cooked with spices and coconut milk. A traditional side dish is “Pol Sambol”, a mixture of onions, chili powder, Maldive fish, and salt. Coconut sambol is a popular accompaniment, a combination of coconut, onion, chili powder, Maldives fish, and salt.