Find out when to go and what to see in Sri Lanka: between temples, national parks and beaches, unique experiences and unmissable attractions.
The Sri Lankait is one of the jewels of the Indian Ocean that offers unique and unforgettable experiences. If you are planning a trip to this fascinating country, then this article is what you need to organize your stay in an efficient and enjoyable way. Read on to find out everything you need to know, when to go and what to see in Sri Lanka.
When to go to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's climate varies greatly by region and by season. In general, the country has two main seasons: the dry season (December-April) and the rainy season (May-November). The former is generally considered the best time to visit Sri Lanka, as the weather is more stable and the beaches are perfect for relaxation and water sports. However, if you plan to visit inland areas such as the central hills or nature reserves, the rainy season may be more suitable, as the cool and humid climate favors the local flora and fauna. In any case, if you plan to holiday in Sri Lanka during religious holidays, make sure you book your accommodation and activities in advance, as these periods are particularly busy.
What to see in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a country rich in culture, nature and history. There are many attractions that are worth visiting during your stay. Below you will find a list of what to see in Sri Lanka.
Temple of the Tooth, Kandy
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is so called because it houses a tooth of Buddha and is considered one of the most important for worshippers. The traditional architecture and intricate decorations make it one of the most visited religious places in Sri Lanka. In addition to the temple visit, you can also witness the incense offering ceremony, which is held four times a day.
WHERE TO SLEEP IN KANDY: find all the offers for accommodations
Sigiriya Fortress
Sigiriya Fortress dates back to the 5th century and is famous for its rock walls decorated with ancient frescoes. One of the most impressive features of this stronghold is the stepped staircase leading to the top, decorated with frescoes of dancing women. From here you can admire spectacular views of the surrounding area as well as the remains of the royal palace, including the baths with their drainage systems and large water cistern.
READ ALSO:Sigirya, the lion rock in Sri Lanka
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is the perfect place to spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles and other wildlife species. It is the largest and most popular in Sri Lanka, located in the southeastern region of the country. There are also several hiking and jeep tours available for exploring the nature reserve. In short, absolutely to add to the list of what to see in Sri Lanka.
Beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna
Sri Lanka, being an island, offers many seaside resorts where you can enjoy some tranquility. If you are looking for crystal clear waters and white sand, the two towns of Mirissa and Unawatuna are right up your street. After an afternoon on the beach, you can relax in one of the bars along the promenade orgo on an excursion to see dolphins.
WHERE TO STAY IN MIRISSA: find all the offers for accommodations
Horton Plains
What to see in Sri Lanka if you love nature? Certainly Horton Plains. It is a natural oasis known for the variety of animals and plants unique in the world. Inside there are large grasslands, deep valleys, waterfalls and mountain lakes. Don't miss the World's End, a promontory that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills.
Anuradhapura temple
Anuradhapura Temple is one of the most important historical and religious sites in Sri Lanka, attracting thousands of visitors every year. This place is famous for the ancient ruins of Buddhist monasteries and temples and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.
Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple dates back to the 1st century BC and comprises a series of caves with ancient statues and paintings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha. The main one, called Devaraja Viharaya, is the largest and most impressive, with a height of over 22 meters. This temple is a place of great religious importance for Buddhists and attracts visitors from all over the world who wish to admire the beauty and majesty of the ancient caves and their artistic treasures. The panoramic view from the surrounding hilltop is equally spectacular.
WHERE TO STAY IN DAMBULLA: find all the accommodation offers
Unique experiences in Sri Lanka
Now that you have a wide choice of what to see in Sri Lanka and the right idea of when to go, we offer you some unique experiences in this country. One of them is visiting elephant sanctuaries where you can admire these magnificent animals in their natural state and even interact with them. The city of Kandy is famous for the Elephant Jubilation Festival, an annual celebration held in August where dozens of elephants parade through the streets. Here it is possible to do tooguided city tours i tuk tuk!
If you are a tea enthusiast you can visit the plantations in the hilly regions of central Sri Lanka, where you can learn how to pick the leaves of the plant and witness its production.If, on the other hand, you are more adventurous, there are numerous opportunities to trek through the mountains,river rafting starting from Kandy, surfing on the sea waves and scuba diving to discover the rich marine life.
Prefer to explore history and culture? Don't miss the ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, which were capitals of Sri Lanka in the past.Another unique experience for gastronomy enthusiasts are the cooking classes to learn how to prepare local dishes and discover the secrets of traditional cuisine.
Practical tips for traveling to Sri Lanka
Finally, here are some tips that will make your trip unforgettable.Plan your itinerary carefully, taking into account the distances between the various attractions and the time required to travel. In this way, you will avoid delays and unexpected events. Make sure you have the necessary vaccinations before you leave and bring all travel documents and documents with youHealth cover. Finally, always keep a bottle of water with you and protect yourself from the sun's rays by wearing hats and sunscreen. With these practical tips in mind, you'll be ready to enjoy your trip to Sri Lanka with peace of mind.
