Sri Lanka, the jewel-shaped country, is a heady and enchanting mix of hills, beaches, abundant greenery, wildlife, and ancient ruins. It has something for every kind of traveller. From its tea plantations to scenic train rides, Sri Lanka can guide the vagabond in you to the best of experiences. The friendly locals, beguiling British colonial influence, Buddhist and Hindu temples, along with white sandy beaches and pristine hills, Sri Lanka is an ideal getaway for a peaceful vacation.
Over the past few years, travellers have started taking notice of this country and its bounties of natural sights. This has increased tourism and has paved the way for excellent quality services when it comes to transport, food, and accommodation. Many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka offer a luxurious and relaxing staying experience. Sri Lanka is a relatively affordable country, and travelling here does not burn a hole in your pocket. Here is a brief Sri Lanka travel guide that can help you plan your travel successfully.
Currency in Use
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Visa Information
Travellers need to get an electronic visa beforehand. One can apply for the electronic visa easily through their government website.
Languages Spoken
Sinhala and Tamil
Best time to visit Sri Lanka
You should plan your travels in Sri Lanka based on seasons. For visiting the west and south coasts of the country, the best time is from December to March. Whereas for visiting the east coast, the best months are April or May.
Places to visit in Sri Lanka
Ella
A direct train from Colombo Fort Station can take you to Ella. It is one of the best scenic hill stations in Sri Lanka to get the real experience of this country.
Polonnaruwa
This city is famous for its temples and can give you a peek in the ancient past. Polonnaruwa city should be on the list of a history buff.
Mirissa
Mirrisa is one of the most alluring beach getaways in Sri Lanka. This tiny village in Sri Lanka will take you away from the crowds and bustle of the city.
Colombo
A trip to Sri Lanka is not complete without a visit to Colombo. This capital city of Sri Lanka is filled with cultural places such as the Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Seema Malaka, and much more.
Anuradhapura
This ancient city is known for its Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha achieved enlightenment. Anuradhapura also has many other temples and religious sites one can visit.
Things to Do in Sri Lanka
Experience a tuk-tuk ride
Tuk-tuks are the most basic mode of transport in Sri Lanka. If you are someone who does not like crowded public transport, then you can certainly take a tuk-tuk. You can also rent one and ride it on your own.
Go on a Wildlife Safari
One of the highlights of visiting Sri Lanka is exploring its wildlife as the country has a diverse landscape. One can spot animals such as the Leopard, Elephants, Deer, etc.
Hop on a Scenic Train Ride
The train journey from Nuwara Eliya Ella to Ella is touted as one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka. One can get the views of tea plantations, picturesque mountaintops, and valleys.
Relax on the Beach
Sri Lanka is filled with beach towns where you can check-in yourself in a luxury resort and relax on the sandy beaches.
Venture on trails to visit Historic sights and Monuments
Sri Lanka has a 2000-year-old tradition and culture, and the remnants of this are evident in its architecture and historical sights. One can traverse through the ancient ruins of Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temple, or visit the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Places to stay in Sri Lanka
Many high-end luxury hotels in Sri Lanka provide an alluring staying experience. Of these travellers can book their stay at Taj Bentota Resort and Spa. This is one of the best resorts in Sri Lanka. It is located at a distance of 60 km from South Colombo and is approximately 90 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport.
Taj Bentota Resort and Spa: The 5-star Luxury Hotel in Sri Lanka for a Lavish Stay
Taj Bentota Resort and Spa offers rooms and suites that have an enchanting view of the beach and the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka. It has European styled living spaces, and all the rooms and suites are designed for delight and thrill. Taj Bentota Resort and Spa is also equipped with banquet halls and Lawn for weddings and other such functions.
This 5-star hotel in Bentota also houses some of the top restaurants in Sri Lanka. S.H.A.C.K is one of the best seafood restaurants in Sri Lanka the offers guests with fresh catches in the morning and afternoon. At Oriental Pavilion, guests can satiate their taste buds exquisite Chinese cuisines. The Palms and the Sea View are two fine dining restaurants that give you the best views of the Indian Ocean along with delectable multi-cuisine delights. For those who want to have a hip day out can head to tease where exotic cocktails and lively ambiance await.
This resort in Bentota also offers the Jiva Spa that is an Indian rejuvenation technique. It ranges from aromatherapy massages, time-honored treatments, body scrubs, and wraps. The hotel also has a fitness centre.
Guests who stay at Taj are ushered in with the greetings of ‘Ayubowan,’ a traditional Sri Lankan reception that is then followed by the sips of ‘Nelli’ passion fruit or the famous Ceylon iced tea. Come stay at Taj Bentota Resort and Spa and soak in everything that Sri Lanka has to offer.
