Top 10 Things To Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a well-known island country in the Indian Ocean which lies like a small gem towards the south of India. The country has diverse landscapes and cultures that are spread across different regions. It is one of those underrated destinations that ought to be visited to be believed.

If you are planning to travel to Sri Lanka, then let us start by saying ‘great choice’. Looking for an easy to follow travel guide to Sri Lanka? Here is your short list of the top 10 things to do in Sri Lanka to make sure that you are not missing out on anything in this captivating country: -

1. Hike Up Little Adams Peak

In the mountain country of Sri Lanka, Ella is considered to be a hiking hotspot and some of the views that you can experience while on hikes here are simply phenomenal. However, for the people who don’t feel up to hiking for hours, trekking up Little Adam’s peak is one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka. The whole trail is marked and has well-maintained paths and stairs that take you to the first set of viewpoints. The multiple platforms and rocks offer perfect photo opportunities, and a chance to experience a spectacular sunset. The further you go, the better the view gets.

2. Ride the Train from Kandy to Ella

Another one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka, the train journey from Kandy to Ella is said to be the most scenic train journeys that you can take. When on the move, you can stroll through the carriages, visit the food stand, or just spend your time gazing at the tea plantations, villages, and bridges that you cross. The views are simply breathtaking as the train winds through the mountains of Sri Lanka. As the scenery changes throughout the trip, you will have a lot to look at all the time.

3. Go for a Trek at a Tea Plantation in Nuwara Eliya

If you are interested in the historical context and perspective of Lipton tea, then this is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. You can participate in the Royal Tea Trail which winds between steep tea terraces. These terraces are not tiered, and tea-pluckers generally scale the sharp inclines to go about their daily work. The tea plants here are mostly scattered about, with no particular pattern, but they do make some beautiful linear designs on the mountainside.

4. Go on Safari at the Kaudulla National Park

You cannot miss going on a safari when you are in Sri Lanka. In fact, Sri Lanka is home to not just the Kaudulla National Park, but to quite a number of other national parks as well. At Kaudullah, however, you can choose for an open-top jeep safari where you will be taken inside the park and have the chance to spot quite a lot of wildlife. You may even catch a glimpse of an entire herd of elephants gallivanting around the park. For photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, going on safari is definitely one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

5. Go Surfing at the South Coast of Sri Lanka

If you head towards the south coast of Sri Lanka, you will find yourself in what is referred to as the surfers’ paradise. Around every corner, there is a new break and not a lot of people to take advantage of it. However, a searing sun, warm water, and endless waves are not the only things that make a visit to this area one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka. Fact is that all along the coast, you are never far from the bliss of the jungle, as this is one of the few areas in the world that brings together both the surf and the jungle in close proximity.

6. Hike to the Top of the Diyaluma Falls

Being a mountain country, Sri Lanka offers numerous avenues for hiking. Diyaluma Falls are actually the 2nd biggest waterfalls in the country and planning a full-day adventure to the falls is one of the top 10 things to do in Sri Lanka. Hiking to the top of the Diyaluma Falls in the Badulla region will take you to multiple falls and natural pools that you would want to spend all your time at. This is a hike that goes downhill most of the way, through the long grass, on a marked trail.

7. Explore the Markets of Sri Lanka

When you take a breather and think about what to do in Sri Lanka, make sure you start exploring the markets. This may not be a part of your typical sightseeing in Sri Lanka, but the best way to get an insight into the culture of a country is to walk among the locals, and the local markets can be just the place for you. There are, of course, a number of markets spread all over Sri Lanka which you can explore and have a great time. You can try the local fruits, taste the local dishes, and chat with the vendors to get a taste of the culture of Sri Lanka.

8. Climb the Sigiriya Rock

Locals are fond of referring to the Sigiriya Rock as the eighth wonder of the world. And when you get there, you might just start agreeing with them. Sigiriya Rock is an astonishing feat of architecture and has a fortress at the top. This fortress has been subject to many wars and invasions, which also add to its historic importance. A part of most Sri Lanka holiday packages, the top of the Sigiriya Rock lies at about 370 m from sea level. One of the most famous things to do in Sri Lanka is to climb Sigiriya Rock to explore the abandoned palaces, ponds, waterways, canals, etc. and to experience the beautiful sunset.

9. Visit the Nine Arch Bridge

Another one of the more popular things to do in Sri Lanka is planning a trip to see the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella which falls on the Demodara loop. With nine beautiful arches surrounded by dense jungle and an agricultural setting, the bridge makes for a very picturesque spot to visit and is an important part of Sri Lanka sightseeing. The bridge has been here since the British colonial period and in Sinhala, it is known as the ‘Ahas Namaye Palama’ which translates to the Nine Skies Bridge. The most unique aspect of the bridge is that it has been built using only rocks, bricks, and cement, and uses no steel or metals in the structure.

10. Plan a Road Trip along the South Coast of Sri Lanka

The south coast of Sri Lanka is perfect for taking a road trip. You can plan one from Unawatuna to Mirissa to Tangalle for a great experience. It is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Sri Lanka. There is absolutely no dearth of options for all who wonder what to do in Sri Lanka. Palm trees and beautiful beaches line the coast and grabbing a bike to cruise the route is something you must do.

There are a plethora of Sri Lanka holiday packages, but you need to know all the important facts about Sri Lanka sightseeing and about the top things to do in Sri Lanka to ensure that you make the right decision in choosing a package.