7 best locations for your two week itinerary stay in Sri Lanka
Introduction
Sri Lanka or Ceylon which is known as the ‘pearl of the Indian ocean’ is a beautiful tropical island with much to offer.
From its sandy beaches to its rugged mountaintops, this island truly has it all!
Here are 7 of the best locations that the Visit Lanka Tours would recommend that you fit into your two-week itinerary to Sri Lanka
Kandy
The southernmost tip of the cultural triangle is the city of Kandy where the Kandyan empire ruled between the 14th and 19th centuries.
It is in Kandy that the Temple of the sacred tooth relic is kept at the Temple of the Tooth– a large temple complex full of sculptures and paintings depicting Gautama Buddha. The Temple of the Tooth and the city of Kandy are the main highlights in one of the most magnificent festivals of Sri Lanka, the Poya Perahera.
Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a beautiful artificial lake in the heart of the hill city of Kandy, Sri Lanka, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth.
Visit Arthur’s Seat during sunrise or sunset for a panoramic view of the lake and the entire city of Kandy.
Sigiriya
According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle the Culavamsa, the Sigiriya rock fortress was a large forest selected by King Kashyapa (477 – 495 AD) for his new capital. He built his palace on top of this rock and decorated its sides with colourful frescoes. Halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure; Sīnhāgiri, the Lion Rock.
It is now a protected UNESCO world heritage site and is dubbed as the 8th wonder of the world!
Anuradhapura
The ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa were once capitals of the ancient Sinhalese kingdom. The first and most important was Anuradhapura, which was built in 380 BC and was abandoned due to Indian invasions in the 10th century AD.
One of the main attractions in the Cultural Triangle is the sacred Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura. Sri Maha Bodhi is believed to have grown from a branch of the Bodhi tree under which Buddha found enlightenment. This is the most sacred tree in all of Sri Lanka and has been so for thousands of years. Many rituals and offerings are given to the tree in veneration. There are three major dagobas in Anuradhapura, one of which is almost 3000 years old and are each uniquely spectacular.
What to pack: suitable clothing to visit sacred sites.
Ella
Ella is a must-visit location for its cool climate and beautiful views. Surrounded by luscious green mountains, Ella is home to many beautiful boutique hotels and restaurants.
Take the train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, which is known to be one of the most beautiful and scenic train rides in the world, crossing the famous demodara nine-arch bridge.
Ella is a town most popular for its lush green mountains and waterfalls. Plan a hike with one of our guides to get the most out of this opportunity
Colombo
Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is perpetually buzzing with life; its rich culture and diversity visible in every nook and cranny.
Colombo’s food culture is arguably the best in the world–from an array of 5-star hotels, to the humble street food stalls, Colombo’s food culture is definitely not something to miss out on.
Things to do in Colombo:
- Visit the Gangaramaya temple
- Visit Galle face green during sunset hours to fly kites and try its incomparable street food stalls
- Visit the streets of Pettah and the local bazaars
- Visit the Planetarium
- Visit the National Museum
Mirissa
Located on the south coast, Mirissa is known for its pristine sandy beaches and its calm blue waters. Ideal for both first-time and pro surfers and for all food-lovers–mirissa is a must-visit location
Mirissa bay has its surfing culture to thank for its newfound popularity; surfers travel from all over the world to visit Sri Lanka’s southern coast beaches, which yet remain unparalleled.
Places to visit in Mirissa include:
- Parrot rock: a giant rock formation in the middle of the sea which can be reached during low tide and provides for the most spectacular view of the sunset.
- Secret beach mirissa: for its clear waters and sandy shores
- Coconut tree hill: for a unique photo opportunity!
Yala
Teeming with wildlife, the Yala and Udawalawe National Parks are definitely must-visit locations to add to your Sri Lankan itinerary.
Most people visit Yala to see its majestic leopards. Some of the other animals that you can see in Yala national park include elephants, Sri Lankan sloth bear, water buffalos, wild boar, peacocks, spotted deer, Jackal, mongooses, bandicoots, endemic toque macaque, crocodiles, and grey langur.
The best time to visit Yala national park is from February to August, when it is the dry season in Yala. During this time period animals can be easily observed gathering around waterholes and lagoons.
You need to visit Yala national park either early in the morning or late afternoon to see animals. The morning safaris in Yala national park take place between 6.00 am and 9.00 am. The late afternoon jeep safaris take place between 3.00 pm and 6.00 pm.
Sri Lanka is genuinely a year-round holiday destination, although the best time to visit Sri Lanka is between December and mid-April, which is considered to be the peak season. Temperatures are fairly constant year round, with coastal regions enjoying average temperatures of 25-30°C and the highlands 15-18°C on average. If you’re travelling during the summer months (May to September) you’ll want to head towards the east coast and northern regions for dry, sunny weather, as the west and south west coasts experience rain at this time. However, the west and south west enjoy favourable weather conditions during the winter months (October to February) when the monsoon season hits the east and north.
Contact The Visit Lanka Tours for a well-planned and guided tour in Sri Lanka to ensure you get the best experience Sri Lanka has to offer!
