Sri Lanka is a great place to travel for an unforgettable vacation. There are many things to do in Sri Lanka, which makes it an ideal destination for any traveller. Immerse yourself in history on visits to ancient cities, marvel at the skills of colonial architects when you visit Nuwara Eliya, and experience the untamed wilderness in Yala National Park, where you can witness herds of wild elephants up close.
Safety is one thing that concerns us when travelling to any foreign land, and despite being famously tourist-friendly, Sri Lanka is no exception. However, these risks are minor and can easily be avoided with proper precautions when travelling here. Sri Lanka is one of the top destinations to visit, and many areas are welcoming and accommodating to travellers. Sri Lankans are hospitable by nature, and you will find many helpful and obliging locals to make your journey enjoyable.
As far as risks go, constantly being on alert might put a strain on your experience, and you will spend more time worrying than enjoying your journey. So here are some tips to protect yourself while also being free to immerse yourself in your adventure.
Knowing about the weather in Sri Lanka can be crucial when it comes to planning your vacation. Choose your vacation time according to the fair weather seasons of Sri Lanka to ensure that you have a pleasant experience. Travelling during the off-season or rainy periods has its advantages in terms of significantly lower prices and the availability of accommodation.
The dry season (December-April) brings sunshine to the south and west coasts, perfect for exploring beaches and hill stations like Nuwara Eliya, famous for its tea plantations. The north and east shine during the northeast monsoon (May-November), ideal for surfing in Arugam Bay and exploring ancient ruins.
Update your vaccinations before travelling, as some medications may have limited availability in Sri Lanka. There is a possibility that some prescription medications may also have limited availability, so take enough to last your trip and a little extra in case of an emergency. Make sure to check if any of the medications are prohibited in Sri Lanka, as they may be confiscated at the airport.
Make inland travel and accommodation reservations in advance, where and when possible. You can use local taxi apps or public transport, but beware of scams and theft.
The instability in Sri Lanka’s political and economic situation that was reported has largely abated. The country is once again experiencing a rise in the number of visitors. According to a report published by Travel Off Path, Sri Lanka was named among the top five countries that would grow the most in 2024.
As a general precaution to any traveller, it would be best to be aware of the safety of your belongings when you are travelling around. Locals and tourists should similarly practise basic safety with regard to protecting valuables while travelling.
When planning your trip, ensure the legitimacy of the travel agent that you consult. Obtain travel advice and reservations from established and trustworthy institutions or resources to avoid scammers.
While taking general safety precautions is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, don’t let worrying about safety prevent you from fully embracing your Sri Lankan adventure. With a little care, you will be able to take back a lot of fond memories that will last a lifetime.
Now that we are caught up on safe travel, what can we do in Sri Lanka? As mentioned, there are many opportunities for different types of adventure here. For adventure enthusiasts, there are challenges of nature such as whitewater rafting, hiking, abseiling, zip lining, surfing, diving, and more.
Sri Lanka’s unique topology creates a surprisingly diverse landscape for such a small island. Travellers can experience a dramatic shift in scenery within a few hours’ drive, from sun-drenched beaches with thriving nightlife to cool, mountainous regions carpeted with tea plantations, ideal for nature lovers.
If you are interested in a more cultural experience, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are plentiful on this miraculous island.
The Sacred City of Anuradhapura, an ancient city that was the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years, contains a vast complex of ruins, including monasteries, temples, palaces, and irrigation systems.
The World-famous Sigiriya Fortress, which is considered one of the most important archaeological and historical sites in Sri Lanka
The Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications, a well-preserved unique blend of European and Asian architecture
The Golden Temple of Dambulla, a temple complex consisting of five caves that contain numerous statues and paintings of Buddha and other deities
The Sinharaja Forest Reserve, home to a variety of plant and animal life, including many endemic species
Kandy, Sri Lanka, is located in the central mountains of Sri Lanka and was the last capital of the ancient Sinhalese kings. The city is renowned for the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa), a sacred Buddhist shrine said to house a tooth of the Buddha. Kandy also serves as a gateway to the Cultural Triangle, encompassing the awe-inspiring ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya.
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Most of these attractions can be seen and experienced when you travel on The Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s longest adventure hiking trail. It winds through the central provinces of Sri Lanka and consists of 22 stages and a total distance of 300 km, The Pekoe Trail offers hikers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. It offers you a chance to experience nature, culture, and adventure all in one place. There are many things to learn about The Pekoe Trail from Stuart Butler, who narrates interesting information about the trail in his podcast and is a recommended listen if you are planning to travel to Sri Lanka.
We hope that this article will help you prepare yourself for a fun and fulfilling journey. A little preparation goes a long way when travelling to any foreign land. Plan your next adventure to Sri Lanka and prepare to be amazed by the variety of experiences you can have all in one place in this paradise island.
