Things to see in Sri Lanka

And the funny thing is that when people come back, they all say, “We didn’t expect it to be this beautiful!” And that’s because Sri Lanka doesn’t get talked about nearly enough, and it’s often underrated.
It’s often compared to India, partly because of its proximity and partly because of some shared customs. But the truth is that every place is a world of its own, and Sri Lanka is no exception: beautiful and waiting to be discovered.
So, here it is...

What to see in Sri Lanka
 

1) Nine Arch Bridge

A beautiful railway bridge in Ella, still widely used today by Sri Lankan Railways. The train passes over it about 6 times a day. It may be touristy, but “touristy” doesn’t automatically mean terrible. In fact, walking along the tracks, reaching the bridge, and watching the colorful Sri Lankan train go by is pretty शानदार and one of the best moments of a trip to Sri Lanka.

2) The legendary Sri Lankan train

The train that runs through the country is a true historical gem that feels like a step back into the colonial era. You can board it at different stations depending on your itinerary. We took it from Ella to Haputale. There are three different classes: first, second, and third. If you want the real train travel experience, you have to go for third class. Getting a seat is a bit of a matter of luck! But you’ll be so busy admiring the scenery from the open carriage doors that it won’t matter.

3) Sigiriya and Pidurangala

Sigiriya is an incredible panoramic rock rising out of the forest. It’s so beautiful that it almost feels like a shame to climb to the top... and then not actually see it! It’s like going up the Eiffel Tower and not being able to admire it in full. To solve this “problem,” you can climb the nearby rock, Pidurangala. It costs just a few rupees and is practically free of tourists.

4) Udawalawe National Park

Near Sigiriya you’ll find Udawalawe National Park. Here, you can go on safari to spot Asian elephants. The important thing is to choose guides and companies that offer a respectful, non-invasive experience for the animals, which are often subjected to stress and trauma by jeeps chasing them relentlessly just to get the perfect souvenir photo.

5) The tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya

The Hill Country is one of the most beautiful areas in the whole country. As you head up into the hills on the road to Nuwara Eliya, an incredible emerald-green landscape opens up before you: an endless expanse of tea plantations. It’s worth stopping and chatting with the women picking the leaves! Or rather, communicating with gestures... because they rarely speak English.

6) The town of Galle

A seaside town in the south, famous for its beautiful Fort, the best-preserved colonial fortress in all of Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must-see! It feels like being in the Switzerland of Asia.

7) The beaches of Tangalle

Nature and the adventure of a road trip are great, but Tangalle is an essential stop for relaxation. The beaches here are paradise-like and far removed from traffic and the fast pace of Asia. There’s plenty to do: sleep on the beach, sleep on the beach, get up early (hmm) for yoga, sleep on the beach…
 

8) The Little Adam’s Peak trail

People don’t usually come to Sri Lanka mainly for hiking. But Little Adam’s Peak is a short walk of about an hour, an easy route suitable for everyone, and it’s absolutely worth it!
 

And do you know the best way to see all of this? By traveling with us — we’ll take you on an absolutely amazing SRI LANKA TOUR. Click here if you don’t believe us!