Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean is an epitome of sandy beaches, exotic wildlife, historical landmarks, scenic tea terraces, and so much more! Being a small island with a total area of 65,610 square kilometres, navigating from one corner of the country to the other is the least challenging. With so much to offer its travellers, be it beauty, warm hospitality, authentic cuisine, or luxurious stays, here are some tips and tricks to plan just the ideal getaway on this tropical island.
Traversing across the Island
With Sri Lanka’s small size and ample options for transport, getting around the island can probably be the least of your concerns. If you want to travel to the country’s hillside, be it, Kandy, Ella, or Horton Plains, a train ride would be ideal with plentiful scenery to catch along the way. The island also boasts a well-spread network of buses that can take you from the city to even the most rural areas with no hassle. However, if you are trying to get around the bustling Colombo city limits, hitching a tuk-tuk or a cab is your best bet for a quicker ride.
Where to Stay
If you are a solo traveller, there are ample budget hostels and guesthouses for you to choose from. With a comfy bed, air conditioning, and good food, you have everything you need to go backpacking across the island. However, if you are looking for a luxurious stay with your friends, family, and loved ones, there are ample 5-star hotels, boutique villas and upscale resorts to pick from. Maybe you can plan your stay in less travelled areas like Kalutara and Tangalle, where hotel brands such as Avani and Anantara under the world-class Minor hotels will promise you opulent and luxury stays.
What to Eat
Sri Lankan food is a chef’s kiss! Rice and curry being the country’s staple, you will come across many dishes made of fresh coconut milk and spices. While you munch on these mouthwatering delicacies, expect your mouth to burst with flavours and aromatic spices. With ample dishes to choose from; be it rice and curry, paratha and butter chicken, pol roti and lunu miris or isso wade, Sri Lankan food speaks right to your foodie’s heart. Try these delicious dishes once and I bet you will fall instantly in love that western menus will soon be forgotten.
What to Explore and Experience
Beauty, fun, adventure, and thrill abound on this paradise-like island. Head over to the azure beaches in the southern parts of the country, go on a hiking expedition on the misty mountain trails of the hillside, hop on a wild safari or explore the historical ruins of the island’s ancient kingdoms; island hopping in this beautiful nation is nothing but a dream come true!
