If you want to make the most of your time these are the top thing to do in Sri Lanka. We’ve narrowed down the best things to do into a top 10 list so you can be sure to see some of the most amazing attractions, sites, and cities!
This is in no way a complete list as there are hundreds of amazing things to do in Sri Lanka The order is random, so one is not necessarily better than the other. Don’t agree with the list? Leave your favorite things to do in the comments.
10. Go on a Pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak
A famous pilgrimage site for more than 1,000 years, Adam’s Peak is a large conical-shaped mountain in the heart of Sri Lanka.
It gets its name from Adam of biblical fame, who he first stepped foot on Earth after being cast out from Heaven. It’s also known as the place of the sacred footprint left by the Buddha (Sri Pada).
9. Surfing
A beginner surfers’ paradise, Sri Lanka is an excellent destination for surfers, with many beautiful beaches lining the coast. Hikkaduwa on the southern coast is one of the most popular spots.
The waves aren’t too intimidating, so it’s an excellent place to casually learn how to surf.
8. Go Whale Watching
The beautiful beach resort of Mirissa, on the very south coast, is famous for a pod of Blue Whales that has called this place home.
It has become one of the best places around the world to see these majestic creatures. Dolphins and Killer Whales frequently are seen as well, so keep your eyes peeled.
7. Eat Kottu
The now famous Sri Lankan dish, Kottu is Sri Lanka’s fast food, made from left over roti that is chopped up, along with a variety of delicious vegetables and spices.
Think of it as Sri Lanka’s Pad Thai, and is one of the most popular dishes. It’s usually very spicy, and you must eat it with your hands to get the full experience.
6. Travel By Train
One of the most iconic ways to travel around Sri Lanka. The most popular train journey from Hill Country to the small town of Ella.
However, some say Ella to Badulla is even more beautiful, with breathtaking landscapes to discover. There’s also a large Buddhist temple near the train station.
5. Sigiriya
The most famous and well-known natural attraction in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya, known as Lion Rock is a rock fortress dating back to the 5th century AD built by King Kasyapa.
The climb is not too difficult, only 180 meters high, and the view and ancient ruins are definitely worth it. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its amazing preserved ancient urban planning techniques.
4. Watch a Cricket Match
As famous as India for its sport of cricket, watching a live match will provide you with an amazing experience, drinking, yelling, and interacting with locals while learning about the game.
If you don’t enjoy sports then you won’t enjoy sitting through hours of this game.
3. Drink Tea Explore Tea Plantations
The world’s fourth largest exporter of tea, Sri Lanka is very famous for its excellent teas. Unfortunately, the locals tend to ruin the tea with too much sugar and milk, however exploring the beautiful tea plantations in places such as Nuwara Eliya or Ella will leave you in awe.
2. Explore Ancient Cities Such as Kandy
The country’s second-largest city, and famous for its “Temple of the Tooth” which apparently contains the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.
Nestled on a plateau surrounded by misty mountains, Kandy also has beautiful vistas and many tea plantations.
1. Yala National Park
If you’re into nature and wild animals, then Yala National Park is your dream paradise. With the highest density of leopards in any national park in the world, you’re almost guaranteed to spot leopards in their natural habitat.
Not to mention the abundance of Asian elephants, there are many Safaris and excursions to this wonderful park.
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