Sri Lanka Travel Guide
A Quick Summary of the Trip
Sri Lanka is a magical island that still feels raw and authentic. Picture misty mornings rolling across tea country, trains winding past waterfalls and emerald-green hills, and roads that lead through jungle and wildlife-filled national parks. It’s the kind of place that turns travel into an adventure — equal parts culture, nature, and discovery.
When to Visit
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so the “best” time depends on where you’re going:
West & South Coast + Hill Country → December to April
East Coast → May to October
This means you can plan year-round, just by choosing your side of the island.
Getting There & Entry
Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo.
Most travellers need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) visa, which can be applied for online in advance.
Overland entry isn’t possible (Sri Lanka is an island).
Essential Packing List
Cash (USD/EUR/GBP) to exchange locally. Sri Lanka’s rupee is a closed currency, so you can only exchange inside the country.
Light clothes for warm weather, plus a jumper for the cooler mountain evenings.
Mosquito repellent (a must).
Rain protection + leech socks if travelling in the wet season or hiking.
Suggested Budget
Sri Lanka can be done on a backpacker budget, but for a seamless, comfortable trip:
Boutique & luxury stays: $150–400 per night
Driver + car hire (highly recommended): $50–70 per day
Meals: $10–25 per person in nice restaurants
For curated experiences, consider using a bespoke luxury operator like ArTravele for planning and logistics.
Where We Stayed
Uga Chena Huts – Yala (2 nights)
Hidden inside Yala National Park, where elephants and leopards roam.
💡 Tip: Always explore with a ranger. Wildlife here is real and close.
Santani Wellness Resort – Kandy (2 nights)
A mountain wellness escape with sweeping valley views.
💡 Tip: Sunrise from your private terrace is unmissable. Bring a warm layer for evenings.
Ceylon Tea Trails – Hatton (2 nights)
Colonial-era bungalows on working tea plantations.
💡 Tip: Walk the tea fields and tour the factory to see Dilmah’s tea-making heritage.
Living Heritage Koslanda – Koslanda (2 nights)
Jungle-chic bungalows tucked into the hillside.
💡 Tip: Ask the staff to arrange a tuk-tuk to Diyaluma Falls — worth every step.
Experiences & Highlights
Day 1 – Yala National Park
Safari through one of Sri Lanka’s most famous parks.
💡 Tip: Not all zones are equal — check which sections are open and where wildlife is most active before booking.
Day 2 – Kandy to Ella Train & Nine Arches Bridge
The iconic train ride through tea country → 3 hours of breathtaking scenery.
💡 Tip: Book Third Class Reserved — best windows, best views, best vibe.
Nine Arches Bridge at sunrise is a photographer’s dream — know the train schedule for that perfect shot.
Day 3 – Mirissa & Galle
Coconut Tree Hill 🌴 (go early before crowds).
Dalawella Swing (actually at Dalawella Beach, not Unawatuna).
Isle of Gelato in Galle Fort 🍨.
Keep an eye out for the colourful Mirissa Peacock Mural.
Day 4 – Udawalawe National Park & Diyaluma Falls
Udawalawe: ethical elephant safaris where the animals roam wild.
Diyaluma Falls: Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall.
💡 Tip: Go with a guide — not just for directions, but for safety (wild elephants, leeches, and steep paths).
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka is a destination that rewards slow travel. Between safaris, train journeys, and time in the tea hills, every moment feels cinematic. Go with curiosity, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure — it’s the kind of place that stays with you.
