{"id":40066,"date":"2020-01-31T04:38:08","date_gmt":"2020-01-31T04:38:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/?p=40066"},"modified":"2020-06-16T15:38:00","modified_gmt":"2020-06-16T15:38:00","slug":"sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Sri Lanka Travel Guide &#8211; All You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This detailed travel guide on backpacking across Sri Lanka covers everything you need to know from major attractions, travel itineraries and tips to help you make your journey to the teardrop isle a memorable one.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6aa1b186aa5bb\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6aa1b186aa5bb\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#WHY_SHOULD_YOU_TRAVEL_TO_SRI_LANKA\" >WHY SHOULD YOU TRAVEL TO SRI LANKA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#IDEAL_ITINERARY_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" >IDEAL\u00a0 ITINERARY FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#PLACES_TO_VISIT_IN_SRI_LANKA_BASED_ON_TRIP_DURATION\" >PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA BASED ON TRIP DURATION<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Two_Weeks_or_Less\" >Two Weeks or Less:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Three_or_More_Weeks\" >Three or More Weeks:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#DESTINATIONS_BASED_ON_ACTIVITIES\" >DESTINATIONS BASED ON ACTIVITIES<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#BEST_TIME_TO_VISIT_SRI_LANKA\" >BEST TIME TO VISIT SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#HOW_TO_REACH_SRI_LANKA\" >HOW TO REACH SRI LANKA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#GETTING_AROUND_IN_SRI_LANKA\" >GETTING AROUND IN SRI LANKA<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Public_transport\" >Public transport\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Private_Services\" >Private Services<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#WHERE_TO_STAY_IN_SRI_LANKA\" >WHERE TO STAY IN SRI LANKA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#WHAT_TO_EAT_IN_SRI_LANKA\" >WHAT TO EAT IN SRI LANKA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#PEOPLE_OF_SRI_LANKA_%E2%80%93_LANGUAGE_CULTURE_AND_RELIGION\" >PEOPLE OF SRI LANKA &#8211; LANGUAGE, CULTURE, AND RELIGION<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#DAILY_BUDGET_FOR_SRI_LANKA\" >DAILY BUDGET FOR SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#VISA_FORMALITIES_FOR_INDIAN_CITIZENS_VISITING_SRI_LANKA\" >VISA FORMALITIES FOR INDIAN CITIZENS VISITING SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#TIPS_ON_PACKING_FOR_YOUR_TRIP_TO_SRI_LANKA\" >TIPS ON PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP TO SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#ETIQUETTES_TO_BE_FOLLOWED_WHILE_IN_SRI_LANKA\" >ETIQUETTES TO BE FOLLOWED WHILE IN SRI LANKA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#CONCLUSION\" >CONCLUSION<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#SRI_LANKA_TRAVEL_FAQ\" >SRI LANKA TRAVEL FAQ<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q1_How_long_does_it_take_to_travel_around_Sri_Lanka\" >Q1. How long does it take to travel around Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q2_How_is_Sri_Lanka_as_a_tourist_destination\" >Q2. How is Sri Lanka as a tourist destination?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q3_What_are_some_of_the_best_tourist_destinations_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q3. What are some of the best tourist destinations in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q4_What_is_Sri_Lanka_famous_for\" >Q4. What is Sri Lanka famous for?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q5_Is_Sri_Lanka_easy_to_travel_around\" >Q5. Is Sri Lanka easy to travel around?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q6_Is_there_Uber_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q6. Is there Uber in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q7_Can_you_drive_around_Sri_Lanka\" >Q7. Can you drive around Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q8_Which_side_do_you_drive_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q8. Which side do you drive in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q9_Is_it_safe_to_visit_Sri_Lanka_now\" >Q9. Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q10_What_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Sri_Lanka\" >Q10. What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q11_Do_I_need_a_visa_for_Sri_Lanka\" >Q11. Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q12_Do_we_need_a_passport_for_Sri_Lanka_from_India\" >Q12. Do we need a passport for Sri Lanka from India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q13_How_can_I_go_to_Sri_Lanka_from_India\" >Q13. How can I go to Sri Lanka from India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q14_How_should_I_dress_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q14. How should I dress in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q15_Is_it_OK_to_wear_shorts_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q15. Is it OK to wear shorts in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q16_Is_Sri_Lanka_cheap_travel\" >Q16. Is Sri Lanka cheap travel?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q17_How_much_money_do_I_need_to_travel_across_Sri_Lanka\" >Q17. How much money do I need to travel across Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q18_What_are_the_currencies_accepted_in_Sri_Lanka_Can_I_carry_Indian_rupees\" >Q18. What are the currencies accepted in Sri Lanka? Can I carry Indian rupees?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q19_Is_Sri_Lankan_food_spicy\" >Q19. Is Sri Lankan food spicy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q20_How_can_I_avoid_getting_sick_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q20. How can I avoid getting sick in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q21_Can_you_drink_alcohol_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q21. Can you drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q22_Can_female_tourists_drink_alcohol_in_Sri_Lanka\" >Q22. Can female tourists drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/sri-lanka-travel-guide-all-you-need-to-know\/#Q23_What_to_pack_for_Sri_Lanka\" >Q23. What to pack for Sri Lanka?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WHY_SHOULD_YOU_TRAVEL_TO_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>WHY SHOULD YOU TRAVEL TO SRI LANKA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<blockquote><p><b>\u201cSri Lanka is an island that everyone loves at some level inside themselves. A very special island that travellers, from Sinbad to Marco Polo, dreamed about. A place where the contours of the land itself forms a kind of sinewy poetry.\u201d<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>\u2014 Romesh Gunesekera<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Witness the romance between the deep blue ocean with her white-sandy shores or take a whiff of the tropical air as you meander on a bright blue train up misty hills, listening to the poetry that her ancient forests weave across mythical landscapes, home to hundreds of creatures who call her home while spicy curries tingle your taste buds and you wash it down with a cup of sweet milk tea; feel the warmth of its people, through their melancholic smiles that tell stories of their own; know what it\u2019s like to find yourself and lose yourself, all at the same time while you experience serendipity like never before on the isle that gave meaning to the word itself; that is Sri Lanka for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sri Lanka offers a surprisingly myriad of experiences to see and explore given its relatively small land area and it can be a daunting task to decide where to go and next to impossible to cover everything this island nation has to offer. A few factors to consider while making this decision is the duration or period of your visit, what your personal preferences are as far as activities or sightseeing go and how fast or relaxed you want your entire trip to be.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40110\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40110\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40110\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tomas-malik-FHAHnF9C0Sw-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Beaches of Sri Lanka\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tomas-malik-FHAHnF9C0Sw-unsplash.jpg 800w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tomas-malik-FHAHnF9C0Sw-unsplash-600x450.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tomas-malik-FHAHnF9C0Sw-unsplash-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tomas-malik-FHAHnF9C0Sw-unsplash-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40110\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Beaches of Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"IDEAL_ITINERARY_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>IDEAL\u00a0 ITINERARY FOR SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A summarized list of destinations based on each of these factors can be found below. Ideally, your itinerary for Sri Lanka should be an equal mix of pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, some wildlife spotting and exploring its ancient heritage and culture. A pint of city life thrown in the midst also helps to keep things interesting. Do keep in mind that this is in no way an exhaustive list and the opportunities for exploration in Sri Lanka are endless if you have the time and the resources for it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PLACES_TO_VISIT_IN_SRI_LANKA_BASED_ON_TRIP_DURATION\"><\/span><b>PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA BASED ON TRIP DURATION<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Two_Weeks_or_Less\"><\/span><b>Two Weeks or Less:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Columbo: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bustling capital city with its chaotic markets and urban life can be a good base to start your Sri Lanka tour provided you can find your way out amidst all the chaos.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Galle:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The fortified city of Galle further down south, reminiscent of its colonial past, begs for an evening stroll along its fort walls or to explore the many cafes and fancy boutiques along its colonial streets that litreally take you back in time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Mirissa:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Home to one of the prettiest beaches on the South Coast and a backpackers hub, the insta-famous Coconut Tree Hill can also be found here that makes for some delightful photo ops. It also offers the best base for spotting blue whales that surge past Dondra Head.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40077\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40077\" style=\"width: 899px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40077\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Stilt fishermen of Sri Lanka\" width=\"899\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash.jpg 899w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/daniel-klein-Qx8_d5dGhrs-unsplash-768x513.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 899px) 100vw, 899px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40077\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Stilt fishermen of Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Yala National Park:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It is, without a doubt, one of the busiest national parks in Sri Lanka booming with both wildlife and tourists alike. The 1268sq km park houses lush green forests and wide-open plains along with a vast variety of wildlife including the largest density of Leopards in the world.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Ella: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Escape the coastal heat to Ella, located at the heart of Sri Lanka\u2019s hill country and home to the roaring Diyaluma Falls, the challenging hike up Ella rock, the stunning Nine Arch Bridge and the magical train ride from Kandy to Ella through rolling tea estates that form the cherry on top.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40089\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40089\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40089\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jaromir-kavan-i9eaAR4dWi8-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Tea Plantations in Sri Lanka\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jaromir-kavan-i9eaAR4dWi8-unsplash.jpg 800w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jaromir-kavan-i9eaAR4dWi8-unsplash-600x450.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jaromir-kavan-i9eaAR4dWi8-unsplash-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jaromir-kavan-i9eaAR4dWi8-unsplash-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40089\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tea Plantations in Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Kandy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Undoubtedly the cultural capital of the country, Kandy lies hidden away amidst misty hills and charming tea plantations. One can also find the Temple of the Tooth here, which houses the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka &#8211; the Buddha\u2019s tooth itself.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Sigiriya:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Also known as Lion Rock, this an ancient palace-fortress built atop a natural rock island that rises 200 meters above the jungle surface below to provide a view like no other. A sunrise hike up the adjacent Pidurangala rock is the best way to witness this panoramic view in all its glory.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40080\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40080\" style=\"width: 900px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40080\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Sigiriya Sri Lanaka\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash.jpg 900w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/egle-sidaraviciute-pv-2hRmoJRU-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40080\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Panoramic view of Sigiriya Rock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Polonnaruwa: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the three hubs considered to be the ancient cities in Sri Lanka, the other two being Sigiriya and Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is home to ancient temples and timeless ruins located amidst thick jungles and gives you a glimpse into the history and culture of the country.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Three_or_More_Weeks\"><\/span><b>Three or More Weeks:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The above itinerary can be expanded into a three week one as well by including some of the places mentioned below.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Weligama:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This beach offers the perfect surfs for those looking to learn the sport with hundreds of surf schools located right on the beach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Hiriketiya:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A place where the jungle meets the ocean, Hiriketiya is fast becoming the hub for digital nomads and backpackers alike with golden palm-fringed beaches, chilled out cafes and a haven for surfers. It is also home to one of Sri Lanka&#8217;s first co-working spaces.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nuwara Eliya: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located between Kandy and Ella in the Hill Country amidst sprawling tea estates and a great base for innumerable hiking opportunities around the region including the most popular one through the Horton Plains to World\u2019s End, Nuwara Eliya also referred to as \u2018Little England\u2019 is an eternal winter land and a great place to simply unwind.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Adam&#8217;s Peak (Sri Pada):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This lofty peak is a prominent pilgrimage destination for locals and tourists alike with various legends being attributed to it. But with over 5000 steps leading you to the top, this is definitely not a hike for the faint-hearted.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Anuradhapura: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The largest and oldest of the three ancient cities, Anuradhapura is located further north of Polonnaruwa and is a must-visit to satiate the history buff in you.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40108\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40108\" style=\"width: 705px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40108\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tharaka-jayasuriya-SrVAjJi_lgA-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Ancient temples of Sri Lanka\" width=\"705\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tharaka-jayasuriya-SrVAjJi_lgA-unsplash.jpg 705w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tharaka-jayasuriya-SrVAjJi_lgA-unsplash-600x511.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/tharaka-jayasuriya-SrVAjJi_lgA-unsplash-300x255.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40108\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ancient temples of Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Jaffna: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having open to tourism only recently, the northernmost capital is still raw and authentic compared to the rest of the country. Being heavily influenced by South India, in terms of religion, cultures, and cuisines, Jaffna offers several unique things to see and do including ancient temples, forts, markets, and vibrant island life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trincomalee: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located on the North-Eastern coast, the crystal clear waters, shallow reefs, and abundant marine life make the nearby Pigeon islands the best spot for diving &amp; snorkeling for both beginners and experienced divers alike and also offers excellent opportunities for whale watching.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Arugam Bay: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0A surfers paradise, this pristine locale boasts of white sandy beaches and chilled out vibes and is inarguably the most popular spot on the southern coast of the country. It also offers the best surf in the country between the months of April to October.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40096\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40096\" style=\"width: 936px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40096\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/nathan-hill-haimes-qw6f1CIXOqQ-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Surfing at Arugam Bay\" width=\"936\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/nathan-hill-haimes-qw6f1CIXOqQ-unsplash.jpg 936w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/nathan-hill-haimes-qw6f1CIXOqQ-unsplash-600x385.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/nathan-hill-haimes-qw6f1CIXOqQ-unsplash-300x192.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/nathan-hill-haimes-qw6f1CIXOqQ-unsplash-768x492.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 936px) 100vw, 936px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40096\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Surfing at Arugam Bay<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DESTINATIONS_BASED_ON_ACTIVITIES\"><\/span>DESTINATIONS BASED ON ACTIVITIES<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Water-Based Activities:<\/strong> Arugam Bay, Bar Reef, Great Basses Reefs, Pigeon Islands, Weligama, Batticaloa<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hiking &amp; Trekking:<\/strong> Adam\u2019s Peak, Knuckles Range, Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala rock, Horton Plains<\/p>\n<p><strong>Wildlife Safaris:<\/strong> Uda Walawe National Park, Minneriya National Park, Pottuvil Lagoon safaris, Yala National Park, Kumana National\u00a0 Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve<\/p>\n<p><strong>Heritage Sites:<\/strong> Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Cave systems at Dambulla, the Hindu temples at Jaffna, Galle Fort,\u00a0 Temple of the Tooth at Kandy<\/p>\n<p><strong>Shopping:<\/strong> Colombo, Galle, Negombo, Hill Country<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"BEST_TIME_TO_VISIT_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>BEST TIME TO VISIT SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although Sri Lanka is a country that can be explored throughout the year, the ideal period of visit mostly depends on which part of the country you plan to visit and what activities you intend to do during your stay. What makes this even more challenging is the fact that Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons that need to be factored in while making your decision.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Peak Season:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The winter months between December to March form the peak season and prices are often on the higher side. The \u201cMaha\u201d Monsoons which is the less severe of the two, occur during this period between October to January on the East and Northern regions (includes Arugam Bay and Trincomalee), keeping the South and Western coasts including the Hill-country relatively drier and busier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Off-Season:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> On the contrary, the main monsoon called the \u201cYala\u201d brings rain to the main tourist regions of the south-western coasts plus the Hill Country during the summer months of May to August leaving the weather in the North and Eastern regions dry and pleasant. This period is considered to be the off-season across the country and prices are relatively lower nationwide.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Shoulder Season:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This leaves the months of April &amp; September as the shoulder season and provides the best odds for good weather if you\u2019re planning for a countrywide trip.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40085\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40085\" style=\"width: 899px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40085\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Leopards at the Yala National Park\" width=\"899\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash.jpg 899w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/geoff-brooks-3TwThGdEUZA-unsplash-768x513.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 899px) 100vw, 899px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40085\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Leopards at the Yala National Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"HOW_TO_REACH_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>HOW TO REACH SRI LANKA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>By Air:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The only way to reach Sri Lanka is by air. The main airport in Sri Lanka, the Bandaranaike International Airport is located 30 km to the north of Colombo and 8 km from Negombo.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>By Ferry:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> All ferry services from India have been suspended indefinitely for various reasons and although presently there are a handful of luxury cruises that take you on a tour of the island nation starting from Mumbai, their costs and the number of days involved usually don\u2019t justify them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bonus Tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Although there are exceptions, the cheapest flights are usually available three months or 3-4 weeks before your date of departure. Using the\u00a0 \u2018anytime\u2019 feature on the Skyscanner app can also help you find the cheapest dates to fly across various platforms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Traveling from the Airport to Colombo\/Negombo:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> From the airport, you have three main options to reach the starting point of your journey which can either be the capital city of Colombo or the relatively more quieter Negombo. The most expensive of the lot is to hire a pre-booked taxi or private transfer service. The more adventurous option is to hire a tuk-tuk from outside the airport premises and the cheapest option is to hop onto one of the many shuttle bus services starting directly from the airport.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GETTING_AROUND_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>GETTING AROUND IN SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Public_transport\"><\/span><b>Public transport<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public transportation is your best bet if you\u2019re looking for an affordable means of getting around the country. They can be, however, quite slow, chaotic and not the most comfortable. But that\u2019s just part of the many experiences this country has to offer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Local buses: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They offer the most widespread, fastest and cheapest network of transportation across the country. However, there are barely any pre-booking facilities available and your best bet is to simply show up at the right bus stop and ask around.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40112\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40112\" style=\"width: 900px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40112\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Iconic train rides in Sri Lanka\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash.jpg 900w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/yves-alarie-3R50kTNBKiE-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40112\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Iconic train rides in Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Trains: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0Although not as reliable or fast compared to buses, trains offer the most scenic journeys and have litreally put Sri Lanka on the map for being home to some of the most iconic train journeys in the world. The picturesque train ride from Kandy to Ella has become an experience on its own and is now a must-do while in Sri Lanka. You can get a broad idea about the various train schedules and stops <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/eservices.railway.gov.lk\/schedule\/searchTrain.action?lang=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>here.<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Tuk-Tuks: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They are the more adventurous option to cover shorter distances. Although their prices are often way higher than buses or trains, their ease of availability makes them an option worth considering.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Private_Services\"><\/span><b>Private Services<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Hiring a Private Taxi: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0Hiring a taxi along with a driver offers a lot more flexibility than public transport but comes at a much higher premium for the comfort they offer. They can be booked by yourself at the major tourist centers, through travel agencies or can even be arranged for you by your hotel or guesthouse. Your driver can also act as your personal guide if you\u2019re hiring the vehicle for several days.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Self- Drive Rent a Car\/Bike:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> None of the above, however, comes close to the freedom you have when renting yourself a self-drive car or motorcycle. This is a great alternative for those true wanderers who wish to travel and explore at their own pace and rules. Given the ever-increasing demand for the same, several companies have come up offering vehicles of all shapes and sizes including cars, motorcycles, scooters and even Tuk-Tuks around Colombo and Negombo. Renting bicycles are also a great alternative for local sightseeing and covering shorter distances without breaking the bank.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40091\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40091\" style=\"width: 909px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40091\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jessica-snoek-wwcWdqo-zq8-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Tuk-Tuks in Sri Lanka\" width=\"909\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jessica-snoek-wwcWdqo-zq8-unsplash.jpg 909w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jessica-snoek-wwcWdqo-zq8-unsplash-600x396.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jessica-snoek-wwcWdqo-zq8-unsplash-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/jessica-snoek-wwcWdqo-zq8-unsplash-768x507.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 909px) 100vw, 909px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40091\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tuk-Tuks in Sri Lanka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WHERE_TO_STAY_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>WHERE TO STAY IN SRI LANKA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contrary to popular belief, Sri Lanka offers an array of accommodation options ranging from budget backpacker hostels to 5-star luxury suites with the only concern being the depth of your pockets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Guest Houses:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The most popular option is to opt for the many guest houses here which can be found even in the more remote areas and cater to travelers of all budgets apart from offering a truly authentic Sri Lankan experience during your stay with local families. They are also a great option to try out the many local dishes the country has to offer which you might not get to taste elsewhere.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Hotels: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the boom of the tourism sector in the country, you will find everything from five-star hotels offering world-class facilities to your typical shoebox budget rooms. Resorts, rented villas and Ayurvedic spa retreats also form part of the higher end of the spectrum.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Hostels:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Although a savior for the budget backpacker, they are not as common as guesthouses and are mostly limited to the main tourist centers and cities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bonus Tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb, Hostelword and others are your best bet at finding the best deals and value for money accommodation during your stay in Sri Lanka.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"WHAT_TO_EAT_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>WHAT TO EAT IN SRI LANKA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sri Lankan cuisine is influenced both by its proximity to India and its colonial past along with the availability of fertile farmlands and the ocean; a paradise for seafood lovers and those having a taste for everything spicy.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_40107\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-40107\" style=\"width: 900px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40107\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl.jpg\" alt=\"Sri Lankan Cuisine\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl.jpg 900w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/spicy-food-bowl-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-40107\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sri Lankan Cuisine<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice served with an assortment of curries forms the national favorite and a staple for lunch, followed by the Kothu Roti (Chopped rotis with vegetables or meat), Hoppers (similar to the Kerala Appams, but with a twist) and a variety of other South Indian inspired dishes including Dosas, Vadai and more forming the majority of the local cuisine here apart from an array of seafood options to choose from. Being a country having a significant vegetarian population, finding vegetarian meals here will hardly be a problem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And as always, if you\u2019re in the mood to splurge, the fancier restaurants and hotels will serve you everything from international cuisines to local delicacies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"PEOPLE_OF_SRI_LANKA_%E2%80%93_LANGUAGE_CULTURE_AND_RELIGION\"><\/span><b>PEOPLE OF SRI LANKA &#8211; LANGUAGE, CULTURE, AND RELIGION<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fusion between its original inhabitants, South Indian influences and the colonial invaders have created an interesting mix of cultures, beliefs and traditions in the country with the Sinhalese Buddhists forming over 70% of the total population, who speak the Sinhalese language followed by the Hindus and Muslims belonging to the Tamil ethnicity and speak the Tamil language. Christianity is also followed by a small minority here. English, although being an official language is mostly limited to the places exposed to tourism and amongst the younger population.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40102 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Sri Lankan Girl\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash.jpg 900w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/robin-noguier-xYZB10jkL2w-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DAILY_BUDGET_FOR_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>DAILY BUDGET FOR SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A basic breakdown of minimum per day expenses for those backpacking Sri Lanka on a budget is given below. Do note that all figures are approximate and dependent on factors such as the location, period of visit, service provider, personal preferences etc.<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><b>Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (Rs)<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Conversion Rate: 1 INR = 2.55 LKR (as on January 2020)<\/b><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><b>Accommodation:<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget Guesthouse: 1500 &#8211; 3000 LKR<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><b>Meals:<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic Rice &amp; Curry: 150 &#8211; 350 LKR<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><b>Transportation:<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bus Fares: Upto 300 LKR Per Day<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mix of bike rentals, trains and hiring taxi: Average 3000 LKR Per Day<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><b>Entry Charges for Sightseeing:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monuments, temples, heritage sites, etc.: 300 &#8211; 2000 LKR<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><b>Charges for Activities &amp; Adventure Sports:\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whale Watching, Surfing, Wildlife Safaris, etc.: Average 5000 LKR<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"VISA_FORMALITIES_FOR_INDIAN_CITIZENS_VISITING_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>VISA FORMALITIES FOR INDIAN CITIZENS VISITING SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The procedure for Indians wishing to enter Sri Lanka is now an extremely simple process and all that is required is to obtain an <\/span><b>Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">that allows one to enter the country for 30 days Per Entry for tourism, business, and transit purposes. No other Visa is required. An Indian citizen can apply for ETA by filling out the requisite information <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eta.gov.lk\/slvisa\/visainfo\/center.jsp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>here<\/b><\/a><b>.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the application is filled out, an online processing fee has to be made depending on the processing time chosen by you. It can be a standard processing fee of USD 20 for processing the ETA within 24 hours or a \u2018Rush Processing\u2019 fee at USD 50 for 4 hours or even a \u2018Super Rush\u2019 processing fee of USD 70 for processing the same within 30 minutes of application.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following documents or information are required while applying for your ETA:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An Indian passport.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Proof of a valid round-trip ticket\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Proof of funds to cover expenses during your stay.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: Children under 12 years of age do not require an ETA for entering Sri Lanka<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More information regarding visa formalities for Indian Citizens entering Sri Lanka can be obtained <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ivisa.com\/sri-lanka-blog\/sri-lanka-visas-for-indians\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>here.<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TIPS_ON_PACKING_FOR_YOUR_TRIP_TO_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>TIPS ON PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP TO SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expect a hot and humid climate (28C &amp; higher) along the coasts year-round but things can get a lot colder when traveling to the hills So packing for two seasons is a must if you\u2019re planning to venture into the hill country.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also because of the fact that the country faces two monsoons affecting different parts of the island at different times, it makes more sense to plan your itinerary for Sri Lanka first before planning on when to visit. This will give you an idea about your chances of facing one of these monsoons and hence the need to pack or avoid your rain gear.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hand luggage and backpacks win over hard luggage every time, especially in a country like Sri Lanka where there is a lot of moving about involved in public transport.<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Some of the essentials to be included in your packing list are as follows:\n<ul style=\"list-style-type: circle;\">\n<li>Backpack and a Daypack<\/li>\n<li>Warm Weather Clothes<\/li>\n<li>Hiking shoes<\/li>\n<li>Sandals or Flip Flops<\/li>\n<li>Beachwear<\/li>\n<li>Quick Dry Towel<\/li>\n<li>Mosquito Repellents &amp; Sunscreen<\/li>\n<li>Rain Jacket and Umbrella<\/li>\n<li>Jacket or Pullover<\/li>\n<li>Toiletries and first aid kits<\/li>\n<li>Power Bank and Camera Gear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ETIQUETTES_TO_BE_FOLLOWED_WHILE_IN_SRI_LANKA\"><\/span><b>ETIQUETTES TO BE FOLLOWED WHILE IN SRI LANKA<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being a relatively laidback country, there aren\u2019t many things you need to worry about as far as etiquettes go as most principles that apply to Indian cultures apply here as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shoes need to be removed while visiting temples in Sri Lanka as well; shoulders and legs should be covered and any headgear such as hats should be removed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having your back to a Buddha statue is considered disrespectful; keep this in mind especially while taking photos.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having visible pictures of Buddha as tattoos or on clothing is an offense and can get you arrested or even deported. Hence make it a point to avoid such clothing or cover up those tattoos.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"CONCLUSION\"><\/span><b>CONCLUSION<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-40099 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Sunset in Sri Lanka\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash.jpg 900w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash-531x354.jpg 531w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/recal-media-ueBIGLmiI5A-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This bite-sized isle definitely packs a punch and can surprise you in more ways than one, if you let it. And in case you\u2019ve been planning a trip to Sri Lanka and want something a little more experiential, do have a look at the Sri Lanka backpacking itineraries from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/\"><b>Plan The Unplanned<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that help you go beyond the tourist tag and see and experience a little more of what this island nation has to offer, without breaking your bank.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/planned-treks\/sri-lanka-trip\/\"><b>Sri Lanka Trip \u2013 A Budget Backpacking Journey!<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.plantheunplanned.com\/planned-treks\/sri-lanka-road-trip\/\"><b>Sri Lanka Road Trip<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re a fan of planned tours or all about unplanned adventures, the fact remains that Sri Lanka will always be a backpacker paradise with spellbinding sights, immersive experiences, and vibrant cultures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>All images sourced from <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Unplash.com<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SRI_LANKA_TRAVEL_FAQ\"><\/span><b>SRI LANKA TRAVEL FAQ<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q1_How_long_does_it_take_to_travel_around_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q1. How long does it take to travel around Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With unlimited possibilities to explore, a typical Sri Lanka itinerary can last from one week to two or three weeks. Ideally, a two-week Sri Lanka itinerary will help you explore the best destinations the country has to offer at a slow and relaxed manner.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q2_How_is_Sri_Lanka_as_a_tourist_destination\"><\/span><b>Q2. How is Sri Lanka as a tourist destination?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A tropical destination with laid back vibes, endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, majestic creatures, spicy curries, famous teas, scenic train rides, and cheap prices.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q3_What_are_some_of_the_best_tourist_destinations_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q3. What are some of the best tourist destinations in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins of Sigiriya, the Hike to Adam\u2019s Peak, the forts of Galle, the Leopards of Yala National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage sights at Polonnaruwa, the picturesque train ride from Kandy to Ella and the laid back beaches on the southern coast are some of the highlights of Sri Lanka that should not be missed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q4_What_is_Sri_Lanka_famous_for\"><\/span><b>Q4. What is Sri Lanka famous for?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Untouched beaches along the entire coast along with infinite opportunities for water sports and whale watching, misty hills and rolling tea plantations up in the hill country and endless hiking trails, national parks and world-famous train rides, UNESCO World Heritage sites across its ancient cultural triangle, Buddhist temples in the south, Hindu temples in the north and architecture that\u2019s reminiscent of its colonial past almost everywhere!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q5_Is_Sri_Lanka_easy_to_travel_around\"><\/span><b>Q5. Is Sri Lanka easy to travel around?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sri Lanka has a widespread network of public transportation including buses, train, and tuk-tuks which are cheap but often slow and chaotic. Private vehicles with drivers are easily available on hire or on the self-drive basis for those willing to shell out the extra fares.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q6_Is_there_Uber_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q6. Is there Uber in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although earlier Uber Intercity services only provided one-way trips from Colombo to Galle, it has now expanded to offer one-way trips to any city in Sri Lanka. Apart from Uber, PickMe Trips and Taxiyak also provide packaged tours to outstation cities.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q7_Can_you_drive_around_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q7. Can you drive around Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For driving around in Sri Lanka one needs to obtain a temporary driving permit at the Department of Motor Traffic or get your International Driving Permit endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka. Most vehicle rentals can arrange the same for you at an extra cost provided you inform them in advance.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q8_Which_side_do_you_drive_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q8. Which side do you drive in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Sri Lanka, vehicles drive on the left with the steering wheel on the right side.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q9_Is_it_safe_to_visit_Sri_Lanka_now\"><\/span><b>Q9. Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka now?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After a history of civil wars and social unrest, things have slowly but surely come back to normalcy with more and more tourists flowing in every year. The U.S. Government has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Sri Lanka, which says tourists should exercise increased caution during their visit. Other countries in the same class include France, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q10_What_is_the_best_time_to_visit_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q10. What is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The peak season is from December to March followed by April and September being the shoulder season. The months from May to August experience monsoons on the South Western coast and are generally avoided by tourists.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q11_Do_I_need_a_visa_for_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q11. Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian citizens visiting Sri Lanka need to obtain an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) similar to a Visa, that allows one to enter the country for 30 days Per entry for tourism, business, and transit purposes. Know more about it <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ivisa.com\/sri-lanka-blog\/sri-lanka-visas-for-indians\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>here.<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q12_Do_we_need_a_passport_for_Sri_Lanka_from_India\"><\/span><b>Q12. Do we need a passport for Sri Lanka from India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, a\u00a0 passport with a minimum of six months validity is required while applying for the ETA.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q13_How_can_I_go_to_Sri_Lanka_from_India\"><\/span><b>Q13. How can I go to Sri Lanka from India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fights are the only way to reach Sri Lanka from India.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q14_How_should_I_dress_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q14. How should I dress in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Modest dressing is recommended even on beaches. While visiting temples, shoes and headgears should be removed, legs and shoulders should be covered. Wearing clothes or even tattoos with images of Buddha on them is a criminal offense.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q15_Is_it_OK_to_wear_shorts_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q15. Is it OK to wear shorts in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, apart from the temples, it is perfectly fine to wear shorts in Sri Lanka.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q16_Is_Sri_Lanka_cheap_travel\"><\/span><b>Q16. Is Sri Lanka cheap travel?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For Indians, Sri Lanka is a relatively cheaper travel destination owing to the higher exchange value of Indian currency (1 INR = 2.55 LKR)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q17_How_much_money_do_I_need_to_travel_across_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q17. How much money do I need to travel across Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the budget traveler, basic guesthouse costs anywhere between 1500 &#8211; 3000 LKR and a basic meal costs 150 &#8211; 350 LKR. Bus tickets cost up to 300 LKR per day and a mix of bike rentals, trains and hiring taxi will cost you on average 3000 LKR per day. Entry Charges for Sightseeing range between 300 &#8211; 2000 LKR and charges for activities &amp; adventure sports will cost you around 5000 LKR per activity.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q18_What_are_the_currencies_accepted_in_Sri_Lanka_Can_I_carry_Indian_rupees\"><\/span><b>Q18. What are the currencies accepted in Sri Lanka? Can I carry Indian rupees?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India rupees is not accepted in Sri Lanka as the official currency for all transactions within the country is Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). The same will have to be exchanged on your arrival in Sri Lanka. LKR can also be directly withdrawn from ATMs using international debit cards that offer better exchange rates than the former option.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q19_Is_Sri_Lankan_food_spicy\"><\/span><b>Q19. Is Sri Lankan food spicy?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although influenced by South Indian cuisine, Sri Lankan food is generally much hotter than their Indian counterparts and are considered to be some of the world&#8217;s hottest in terms of chill content.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q20_How_can_I_avoid_getting_sick_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q20. How can I avoid getting sick in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carry all basic and personal medication with you.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some recommended vaccinations before your visit to Sri Lanka are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, Tuberculosis, and Rabies vaccinations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid dengue fever by staying away from stagnant water sources and covering yourself up and using mosquito repellents in places prone to mosquitoes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid Traveler&#8217;s Diarrhea by drinking only boiled or treated water, visiting cafes and restaurants with high turnover and look clean, making sure the food is properly cooked and always practicing good hygiene while traveling.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q21_Can_you_drink_alcohol_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q21. Can you drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You are free to drink in restaurants, bars, night clubs, and private commercial spaces. However, drinking in public places like streets, parks, buses, or other public places is punishable by law.<\/span><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q22_Can_female_tourists_drink_alcohol_in_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q22. Can female tourists drink alcohol in Sri Lanka?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no laws that ban or prohibit women both local or tourists from purchasing or drinking alcohol in Sri Lanka.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Q23_What_to_pack_for_Sri_Lanka\"><\/span><b>Q23. What to pack for Sri Lanka?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Backpack and a Daypack<\/li>\n<li>Warm Weather Clothes<\/li>\n<li>Hiking shoes<\/li>\n<li>Sandals or Flip Flops<\/li>\n<li>Beachwear<br \/>\nQuick Dry Towel<\/li>\n<li>Mosquito Repellents &amp; Sunscreen<\/li>\n<li>Rain Jacket and Umbrella<\/li>\n<li>Jacket or Pullover<\/li>\n<li>Toiletries and first aid kits<\/li>\n<li>Power Bank and Camera Gear<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This detailed travel guide on backpacking across Sri Lanka covers everything you need to know from major attractions, travel itineraries and tips to help you make your journey to the teardrop isle a memorable one. WHY SHOULD YOU TRAVEL TO SRI LANKA? \u201cSri Lanka is an island that everyone loves at some level inside themselves. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":505,"featured_media":46085,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[55],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-40066","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40066","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/505"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=40066"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40066\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/46085"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=40066"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=40066"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plantheunplanned.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=40066"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}