How to travel Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, a gem in the Indian Ocean, offers travelers a rich tapestry of experiences, from serene beaches to lush highlands and ancient temples. To make the most of a visit, planning and prioritization are key. Most travelers visit the country clockwise from Sigiriya to Galle.
ETA
To visit Sri Lanka, you’ll typically need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which can be obtained online via the official website managed by the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration & Emigration. The ETA is designed for short visits, whether for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Here’s an overview of the ETA requirements and application process:
Apply Online
Visit the official ETA website and complete the online form.Entry Requirements: Upon arrival, you’ll need:
A passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry date.
A return ticket.
Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Arrival and transport
Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo (CMB), the capital. Using a taxi is highly recommended due to the often challenging road conditions and local driving habits. Locals can drive very dangerously, so please be careful. For shorter distances, tuk-tuks are the way to go. If you'd like to rent a tuk-tuk and drive around yourself, take a look at this website.
Two week itinerary
Personally, I would skip Colombo and Negombo and head north to the Cultural Triangle for starters. Here, you can visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, explore the ruins of Polonnaruwa, and climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress for breathtaking views.
Head to Kandy to see the Temple of the Tooth and lush botanical gardens. From Kandy, take the scenic train to Ella, enjoying the picturesque landscapes of tea plantations and waterfalls.
After, experience a wildlife safari at Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park to see elephants and leopards.
Continue to the southern coast. Relax on the beaches of Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama and Tangalle. Don't miss a whale-watching tour in Mirissa, but be aware there are small chances to actually see a whale. If you don’t feel like losing a half/full day on sea, I would not recommend doing a whale tour. To finish, visit the historic Galle Fort for a blend of beach and history.
Return to Colombo for your departure, completing an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka.
If you have more time to visit Sri Lanka, I would recommend also visiting the following places:
Dambulla, located next to Sigiriya
Nuwara Eliya, located between Kandy and Ella.
Arugam Bay, a hidden gem on the East Coast
Many small beaches at the South and West Coast, like Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Thalpe,...
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Travel times
Sri Lanka is a relatively small country, meaning you can mostly travel from A to B in less than 3 hours.
Travel times by car
Colombo/Airport - Sigiriya
= 4 hours, 190 kmSigiriya - Kandy
= 2h30, 90 kmKandy - Ella
= 4 hours, 140 km / 8 hours by trainElla - Yala
= 1h15, 60 kmElla - Udawalawe
= 2 hours, 90 kmUdawalawe - Tangalle
= 1h20, 70 kmTangalle - Mirissa
= 1 hour, 50 kmGalle - Colombo
= 2h15, 150 kmMirissa - Colombo
= 2h40, 177 km
Sri Lanka currently has over 271 km of designated expressways serving the southern and central parts of the country.
The Southern Expy/E01 is the newest one and brings you easy and fast from the airport to the Southern Beaches.
Nature and Wildlife
From the Cultural Triangle, journey to the central highlands. Kandy, with its revered Temple of the Tooth and lush botanical gardens, is a must-see. Continue to Nuwara Eliya for its cool climate and tea plantations. A train ride from Kandy to Ella through the scenic hill country is an unforgettable experience.
Beach Time
For sun and sand, the south coast is ideal. Mirissa, and Tangalle offer pristine beaches and opportunities for whale watching. Galle, with its UNESCO-listed fort, provides a blend of beach and history.
Wildlife Safaris
Visit Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park for close encounters with elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.
Cultural Experiences
Engage with local culture by attending a traditional dance performance, trying Sri Lankan cuisine, and visiting village markets.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the west and south coasts and the hill country is from December to March, while the east coast is best from April to September.
Safety and Respect
Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. Respect local customs, especially in religious sites, and be mindful of environmental conservation efforts.
