Sri Lanka, an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” is located just off the southeastern coast of India. It is a vibrant nation that captivates travelers with its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, oodles of elephants, inexpensive prices, fun rides, and welcoming people. Whether you are a history buff, a tropical lover, or looking for a peaceful retreat, Sri Lanka might be a treasure trove waiting for you to be discovered. However, there are many reasons to visit Sri Lanka and will list them down for you.
10 Great Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka
With fairly reasonable travel costs and a wide variety of experiences, Sri Lanka is not only a nearby getaway but also offers great value for money. Here’s why this tropical paradise should top your travel list
Easy To Reach
One of the major reasons Sri Lanka is so appealing to Indian travelers is how easy it is to reach. You can book your tickets directly from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai to Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo. This flight time is just around 1.5 hours from Chennai to approximately 3 hours from Delhi. Major airlines like Sri Lankan Airlines and IndiGo offer frequent flights at very reasonable rates – starting at around 6,000 INR for a round trip if booked in advance.
On top of that, Sri Lanka offers visa-on-arrival for Indian tourists. You can also apply for an e-visa online, making it super convenient and hassle-free. Check out the official website to apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa here.
Explore Beyond: Top Destinations and Attractions in Sri Lanka
Pristine Beaches
Sri Lanka is well-known for its picture-perfect beaches that line the palm-fringed coastline of 1600 kilometers. From the bustling shores of Unawatuna Beach of crystal-clear waters to the tranquil sands of Mirissa Beach to experience surfing. Bentota Beach was previously referred to as “the World’s Most Beautiful Beach” by the European Tourism Association. If you are a beach bum and looking for your favorite beach, discover the breathtaking and Instagram-able coastal scenery of Sri Lanka.
For Indian travelers, the beaches of Sri Lanka offer a perfect tropical escape that is just a short flight away, skipping all the long flights to destinations like Thailand or Bali.
Recommended Read: Romantic Getaways & Best Spots in Sri Lanka
Rich Cultural Heritage
A rich history expanding over 3000 years, home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sri Lanka holds some of the world’s ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa; showcasing the architectural and cultural marvels of ancient civilizations intricately carved and modeled out of stone.
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, is a fifth century AD fortress and a water garden that offers a stunning and futuristic view of the surrounding landscape, and some of the oldest murals recorded in the country.
Sri Lanka’s last kingdom of Kandy is a testament to its ability to rise from ashes. After being invaded thrice by the Portuguese, the Kandyan Kingdom still holds beautifully carved and built houses, palaces, stupas, and monastic complexes preserved for around 500 years. Don’t miss the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, which houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Every cultural site reflects a majestic part of the country, so if you are a culture lover, enjoy your pace to explore more heritage sites in this fascinating country.
8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka are –
- Ancient City of Polonnaruwa (1982)
- Ancient City of Sigiriya (1982)
- Old Town of Galle & its Fortifications (1988)
- Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple (1991)
- Sacred City of Anuradhapura (1982)
- Sacred City of Kandy (1988)
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve (1988)
- Central Highlands of Sri Lanka (2010)
Wondrous Wildlife
Sri Lanka has one of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world (for plants or animals). It is also included among the top five biodiversity hotspots in the world. There are about ninety-one species of mammals found in Sri Lanka, including Asian elephants, sloth bears, leopards, sambar, and wild buffaloes.
The exotic country birds are a great attraction of Sri Lanka’s wildlife constituting nearly 433 bird species, making nearly 13% of Sri Lanka as conserved national parks.
- Head to Yala National Park to spot leopards, or visit Udawalawe National Park, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage allows for an unforgettable elephant safari.
- Minneriya National Park is popular for elephant herds gathering from surrounding parks in the months of May to October.
- For the birdwatchers, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a pristine untouched wilderness for nature walks filled with rare bird species.
- If you are a nature enthusiast or wildlife photographer, hiking in the lush green hills of Ella and Horton Plains offers breathtaking treks through tea plantations and cloud forests.
Sri Lankan Food Fiesta
Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by its neighbors – India (mainly South of India), Malaysia, and Indonesia. Various curries made with a rich variety of different vegetables, meats, and spices are abundant in Sri Lanka. A bowl of rice and curry or pol sambol (coconut curry) is pictured as the staple food of Sri Lanka, along with papadum (crispy deep-fried crackers), mallum (green salad), and a deep-fried red chili for a little extra kick.
As a nation living harmoniously with nature, you must expect an abundance of fruits and vegetables in the country, making it a delightful experience for plant-based meals.
Another popular street food in Sri Lanka is referred to as “short-eats”, tiny, salty snacks ideal for quick and delicious munching delights while strolling on the streets of Sri Lanka.
Some must-try dishes of Sri Lanka include:
- Hoppers: similar to appams, but with a crispier edge
- Kottu Roti: a type of chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat
- Fish Ambul Thiyal: a sour fish curry
- Pol Sambol: a coconut relish that goes great with almost everything
A meal at a local restaurant will cost you anywhere between 300 INR – 700 INR, making it an affordable dining experience. And if you want to experience luxury, upscale restaurants will cost around 1500 INR to 3000 INR for two. Given the countless assortments of flavors and textures of Sri Lankan food, the cuisine is undoubtedly a phenomenal gastronomical adventure.
Thrills and Adventure
The island’s diverse landscapes, varying climates, and geography packed into a small drop-like island offer a perfect setting for a range of thrilling activities, from the top of the mountains to the depth of the oceans.
The activities such as white water rafting, deep sea diving, hot air balloon rides, canoeing, wreck diving, surfing, cliff jumping, parasailing, and hiking have created a new subspace as tourist attractions.
- Hiking in Ella: If you enjoy hiking, Ella is the perfect base to explore the hills of Sri Lanka. The trek to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak offers some stunning views of lush greenery and tea plantations.
- Wildlife Safaris: Sri Lanka is a dream for wildlife lovers and photographers. Yala National Park is famous for its leopards, while Udawalawe National Park is a great place to spot oodles of elephants in their natural habitat. Safaris here are similar to those of Africa, but an affordable rate, with tours starting at around 3,500 INR to 5,000 INR.
- Surfing: Sri Lanka is one of the top surfing destinations in the world. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, places like Arugam Bay and Hikkaduwa offer some of the great waves.
Friendly and Hospitable People
Sri Lankans are known for their incredible warmth and hospitality, making you feel welcomed with smiling faces the moment you step on the island. The nation is multi-ethnic, multi-religious where people live together in extreme harmony.
You will find locals eager to help with directions or offer recommendations on local eateries or hidden gems, and their friendly nature adds to the charm of traveling. Whether you’re staying in a guesthouse, visiting a rural village, or exploring the cities, you’re likely to experience the true essence of the people of Sri Lanka. As an Indian traveler, you will find a shared cultural connection that makes the trip even more comfortable and relaxing.
Shopping in Colombo
If you are looking for retail therapy, are a serial shopper, or even want to pick up some souvenirs, Colombo is the place for all. The Pettah Market is an open-air market offering everything from clothes to spices, while Odel and Barefoot are known for their high-quality products, including clothes, handicrafts, and home decor.
The prices of most items are reasonable. You can pick up a range of handcrafted souvenirs such as Sri Lankan tea, wooden carvings, and batik fabric, everything ranging from 500 INR to 2,000 INR depending on what you are looking for.
Tea Plantations & Train Rides
Sri Lanka is also renowned for its tea, and a visit to the island is incomplete without witnessing the stunning tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya or Ella. You can take a tour of a tea factory, sample some freshly brewed tea, and experience the tea production firsthand.
One of the most scenic train rides in the world is from Kandy to Ella, where you will pass through lush green hills, mist tea plantations, and picturesque villages. This train journey is an experience itself, offering spectacular views at a bargain price ranging from 200 INR to 1,500 INR depending on the class preference.
Also, spot the many mesmerizing waterfalls along the way, before you stop at Ella Hill station, the town in the heart of hill country.
Know More: Ideal Seasons For Your Trip To Sri Lanka
Affordable Travel Destination
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is that it is a relatively affordable travel destination compared to many other tropical paradises, making it one of the biggest appeals for backpackers or budget travelers around the world.
Whether you are staying in luxury resorts or budget accommodations, you will find a range of options that suit your needs and budget. All in all, Sri Lanka is an inexpensive small island, where food, transport, and activities are reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore without breaking a hole in their pocket.
For reference, the exchange rate (as of September 2024) is approximately 1 INR = 3.65 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupee). You can find some authentic dishes like curries and rotis starting from 150 – 250 INR, long-distance public transport may cost you up to 250 – 500 INR, short journeys on most reliable tuk-tuks costing around 150 – 300 INR per ride, and backpacking stays can be as low as 1,500 INR per night, whereas luxury boutique hotels can cost upwards of 5,500 INR per night.
If you wish to join us on a trip to Sri Lanka which includes all activities, accommodations, a bunch of meals, and smooth travel fun.
With its close proximity, affordable costs, and a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for Indian travelers looking for a great blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Book your Sri Lankan adventure today with JustWravel!
Reasons To Visit Sri Lanka FAQs
Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka right now?
Yes, it’s generally safe to travel to Sri Lanka right now. The country has stabilized after political unrest in 2022, with peaceful conditions and a warm welcome for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s advisable to stay updated on local advisories and take standard precautions while traveling.
Best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is great to visit year-round, and the best time depends on where you want to go. If you are visiting the West and South Coasts, November to March is ideal. For the East Coast, April to September is perfect for beach lovers No matter when you visit, there’s always something exciting to see! Ready to explore? Let us help you plan the perfect trip!
Things to do in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is packed with diverse experiences. You can explore ancient temples, take scenic train rides through tea plantations, relax on pristine beaches, and even go on a wildlife safari to see elephants and leopards. Don’t forget to hike up to the hills of Sri Lanka!
Sri Lanka is famous for which product?
Sri Lanka is world-famous for its tea! Ceylon Tea is loved for its unique flavor and is a must-buy when you visit. The country is also well known for spices, gemstones, and handicrafts. Be sure to take home a little souvenir of Sri Lanka as a memory!