Sri Lanka is located under India and has become quite popular over the past years. Which I totally understand as it has a lot to offer! From surfing to whale watching, to staring into the wide fields of tea plantations while standing in a full train. Especially considering the fact that I only traveled around the south. Another big plus: the people in Sri Lanka are very friendly!
When I was living in Abu Dhabi flying to Sri Lanka only took a few hours. My sister and I were able to catch a standby flight with Etihad in January and traveled around the south of the country for 6 days. This seems short, and yes, we could definitely have spent more time, but we simply didn’t have more time. Nevertheless, we had the best time and managed to see and do quite a lot without feeling stressed. I’d say we got a good taste of the country!
1. Colombo
The capital city of Sri Lanka is where you will probably touch down. I had already visited Colombo a few times during layovers for work and I really enjoyed walking around there. I must admit, it’s not a super spectacular city, but there is some Dutch history to be found. There is also a long beach which is very alive around sunset. With loads of kids playing, food stalls, groups of friends, and couples walking around. It’s nice to have a look here if you’re around.
Places to visit:
- Gangarama Seema Malakaya
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
- Dutch Hospital
2. Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s tea region
Nuwara Eliya is known for its glorious fields full of tea plantations. Most of the tea plantations are in this part of Sri Lanka because of the weather conditions here. We stayed in a super cute and cheap accommodation (see link below) surrounded by green fields so we could walk from our accommodation to the plantations. To actually try some tea and learn more about the production process you can visit some of the factories and take a tour. We went to Pedro Tea Center and Factory where we got a tour through the factory. Afterwards, we enjoyed a cup of tea at a nice place overlooking the plantations.
From this tea centre, you can walk to Lover’s Leap Waterfall in 35 minutes or you can take a tuk-tuk. It’s not the most spectacular waterfall you have ever seen but the walk along the tea plantations and the view are nice!
Cute and affordable ccommodation in Nuwara Eliya
La Luna Cabins
3. Ella, a beautiful mountain village in Sri Lanka
Ella is a must-visit when you are in Sri Lanka, it’s a lively village (touristy yes) but there are various cool hikes around! We arrived in Ella by train which was a very nice experience by itself. The most common train route is between Kandy to Ella but we jumped on the train in Nuwara Eliya. The trains are full so don’t expect to find a very comfy seat for yourself. We decided to sit near one of the openings as this gives a much better view of the surroundings. As part of the route the train rides on the side of a mountain/hill, you will only have a good view on one side of the train. This was the left side when you stand with your face to the front of the train.
Important to know is that the train is very likely to have delays, so make sure you have plenty of time and don’t plan anything after the train trip. Also, bring some snacks! The train stops and people sell stuff on board, but if you don’t pay attention or you are a picky eater it’s always good to bring something.
Ella itself is a small village that is quite popular among tourists as it offers the perfect base for a number of activities in the area. There are quite a lot of (souvenir) shops, restaurants and bars in this town as well. So you can easily spend a few days here.
Accommodation in Ella with a great view
Hillcrest Ella
4. Little Adam’s Peak
Little Adam’s Peak is a relatively easy hiking trail, so basically accessible for almost everyone. It’s a perfect hike to watch either the sunrise or sunset. We went for the sunrise and although it was pretty foggy, it was still a really nice place to watch the sunrise and the view over the surrounding hills and tea plantations was just magnificent! The peak got its name because its shape is similar to its big brother: Adam’s Peak, which is considered a holy site in Sri Lanka.
After the sun was fully up we walked back down and continued our trip to the famous Nine Arched Bridge. As the name says it already, this bridge has nine arches and it was built during the British Colonial period. The reason this bridge is so popular, is because it is surrounded by tea plantations and big green trees.
As much as I would love to give you advice on how to easily walk from Little Adams Peak to the bridge, I can’t. We got lost and ended up walking into somebody’s backyard. I would definitely recommend combining these two in one trip. Or just go very early because there weren’t that many people yet when we arrived, but it started to get a lot busier before we left.
5. Mirissa and Weligama
We ended our trip in Mirissa and Weligama, 2 coastal towns next to each other in the south of Sri Lanka. This area is very popular among surfers, but also just a very chill destination to end your trip. It has some great restaurants and cool boutique shops. You can take surf lessons here or just rent a board and go.
Another popular spot here is the insta-famous Coconut Tree Hill. If you really want to have a photo at this hill full of coconut trees, be prepared to stand in line to take your shot.. It’s one of those places that will disappoint you when you realize that this is not a hidden gem and there is a 21934 other people there to take a photo. We skipped it but I guess if you go really early you might have a slight chance to have the place to yourself.
Besides the beaches we visited Mirissa to go whale watching. Especially after my planned whale watching trip in New Zealand got cancelled, this was still high on my list. I have always been really drawn to sea animals and used to be a next-level dolphin fan, so yes, I was super excited to see these majestic animals. After hours on that boat we finally spotted them. Unfortunately there was no spectacular show but knowing they were so close to us was already really cool.
We booked our tour with Raja and the whales.
Some of our favorite spots in Mirissa and Weligama:
- Ceylon Sliders: we went here for food and cocktails but it’s also a boutique hotel. They have a nice and cozy rooftop!
- Turtle beach for sunset drinks
- Shady Lane Mirissa: cafe and concept store with delicious smoothie bowls and cute stuff
- Secret Jungle Beach
- Bangkok Kitchen
- Deli Ceylon for yummi healthy breakfast in a cute garden
Accommodations in Weligama:
Banana Leaf Garden
Chill House (Good Story)
Travel tips Sri Lanka
Visa information for Sri Lanka
Although I do a lot of research online, I always like having a travel guide with me. Even if it’s just to learn a bit more about the history and culture of the country. I personally prefer the Lonely Planet series.
Weather Sri Lanka
Be aware that Sri Lanka’s weather is divided over the country. You might think it’s just a small island, but it’s actually bigger than the Netherlands. The best time to travel to Sri Lanka therefore depends on where you plan to go.
The best time to visit the south of Sri Lanka is December – April.
The best time to visit the east of Sri Lanka is May – October.
The best time to visit the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka is January – March.
Travelbecks 
I like your legs step in Seri Lanka.
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