2025 Sri Lanka Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

Ella, located in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is a charming town full of natural beauty. Its stunning landscapes and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among backpackers. The most famous attractions here include the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. Climbing Little Adam's Peak in the early morning, surrounded by tea plantations and mountains, offers breathtaking views of the sea of clouds and sunrise from the summit, making it a paradise for photographers. The Nine Arches Bridge is another must-see spot. You can either walk through the tea plantations to reach it or wait to capture the iconic moment when a train crosses the bridge. After your adventure, relax with a cup of freshly brewed Sri Lankan tea at one of the town's cafes. For food lovers, Ella has many local restaurants offering traditional curry rice and roti at affordable prices. In the evening, head to a local bar to enjoy live music and share travel stories with other travelers. For transportation, it is recommended to take the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy to Ella, known as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Ella is not only a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but also an excellent choice for exploring Sri Lankan culture and nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply want to relax, Ella offers an unforgettable experience!

Who would believe that I have set foot in Colombo? If I hadn't said it myself, I'm afraid no one would believe it, right? 🌍 Sri Lanka, located on the Indian Ocean, is like a dazzling "gem". Its tourism resources are rich and colorful, and the tourism industry is the pillar of the country's economy, attracting countless tourists to come for vacation and leisure 🔥. However, when it comes to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, my experience seems to be limited to taking a plane there ✈️. I have never set foot in the streets and alleys of the city, so I am ashamed to say that I have visited Colombo 😔. I have never seen those iconic buildings and charming attractions, let alone have the confidence to say that I have truly appreciated the charm of Sri Lanka. Whether you want to learn more about Sri Lanka's humanities and history, want to take stunning photos, or want to experience the atmosphere of Sri Lanka, Colombo can meet your needs one by one! 💻 ✨Humanities and History 🏛️Colombo National Museum: As the largest museum in Sri Lanka, it houses a large number of precious cultural relics and artworks, which are breathtaking. 🎉Independence Square: Known as the "Little Tiananmen", it symbolizes the historical moment when Sri Lanka moved towards independence from British colonial rule. 🛕Water Temple: The Buddhist temple on Beira Lake has excellent visual effects and a quiet environment, making it an excellent place for walking and meditation. 🏛️Bandaranaike Parliament Building: This magnificent building was built by our government in 1973, and it witnessed the deep friendship between China and Sri Lanka. ✨Holy Land of Photography 🕌Pink Mosque: The red and white architectural colors are dreamy, as if in a candy house, making people's hearts burst. 🏖️Galle Face Green and Beach: Located on the coastline of Colombo, facing the Indian Ocean, it is a popular beach for local residents to relax and walk. 🪷Lotus Tower: As a modern landmark of Colombo, it is known as the "Oriental Pearl" of Sri Lanka, and the lights are dazzling at night. 🚞Sea Train: Taking this romantic train, it seems to have traveled to Hayao Miyazaki's "Spirited Away", experiencing that unique romance. ✨Life Atmosphere 🛒Petta Market: This is a lively local market with a variety of fresh fruits 🍊, spices and handicrafts, everything. 🐟Peliyagoda Seafood Market: As one of the largest fish markets in Lanka, it gathers a variety of fresh seafood, which is mouth-watering. 🏞️Beira Lake: Surrounded by green trees and birds and flowers, there is also a water park, which is a favorite place for locals in Colombo. 🏬Marino Mall: This is a modern shopping center in Colombo, which is loved by local people in Lanka. 🚶‍♂️City Walk: Walking in the streets and alleys of Colombo, you will find that the streets are full of cafes, restaurants and boutiques, full of life.

Sri Lanka🇱🇰 Seven days and five nights itinerary⬇️ Cost-effectiveness must-see collection👀 ----- 1️⃣【Ceylon Time】 Departing from Chengdu🛫 Hotel🏨: 4-star throughout, two nights by the sea 5-star Hunting🦁: Minneriya jeep chasing elephants🐘 Attractions🎈: Sigiriya Rock, Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort, Spirited Away seaside train, Kandy Lake - 2️⃣【Romance in Lanka】 Departing from Chengdu🛫 Hotel🏨: 5-star throughout, two nights by the sea Attractions🎈: Sigiriya Rock, Temple of the Tooth, Galle Fort Culture👨🏻‍🌾: Negombo fish market, St. Mary's Church, stilt fishermen, Kandy Lake Experience🌊: Whale watching at sea🐳 - 3️⃣【Whale Splendor Lanka】 Local departure🚗 Hotel🏨: 5-star throughout, two nights by the sea Attractions🎈: Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Gardens, Galle Fort, boat tour in the mangroves Depth✨: Sigiriya Rock (climbing to the top), Dambulla Cave Temple (inside) Check-in🚞: Spirited Away sea train Experience🌊: Minneriya jeep chasing elephants🐘 Mirissa sea whale watching🐳

|Those travel destinations worth revisiting. Cover: A Masala restaurant·Negombo·Sri Lanka Encountered a railway robber on the sea train, the entire travel bag was stolen, the photo is all I have left. Stay optimistic, healthy, calm, and meticulous. 【2023 Travel List】 January Guilin Jingdezhen Nanchang Anqing Tongcheng Tunxi February Ningbo Temples Siming Mountain Dongqian Lake Tang'e Tip March Shipyard Mountain Xianghu Mountains April Xingmei Tip Yaotou Mountain Ruyi Tip May Qingliang Peak Half Mountain Moxin Tip Baishi Tip Thousand Island Lake June Hefei Shouxian Fengyang Xuzhou Huai'an Gaoyou Taizhou August Wengjia Mountain-Longjing-Meijiawu Wengjin Line September Wufeng Island-Linfeng Mountain-Anding Mountain Singapore October Sri Lanka Pilgrimage Bangkok November Thousand Island Lake Race Zhejiang West Sky Road Heqiao Ancient Town December Zhoushan Circle Zhujiashan Circle Zhejiang Museum New Hall 【Discover destinations worth revisiting】 ①Ningbo Temple Tour Baoguo Temple, Qita Zen Temple, Ayuwang Temple, Tiantong Temple... ②Ningbo Dongqian Lake Song Tomb Tour Southern Song tombs, corridors, archways, stone statue art ③Anqing and Tongcheng The king of reverse City Walk in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai ④Chunan Moxin Tip-Kaihua Baishi Tip 16km loop Pure outdoor, the only remaining pure land, as if no man's land! ⑤Shouxian, Fengyang, Xuzhou, Huai'an, Gaoyou, Taizhou Pot chicken and Han tombs, can also wander around eating and drinking. The heavy town of Subei nurtured by the Grand Canal, with both food and scenery. ⑥Linfeng Mountain, Anding Mountain, Xiaoshan Sky Road A good place for uphill training in the suburbs of Hangzhou, specializing in all kinds of hard mouths! ⑦Sri Lanka Theravada Ancient Capital Pilgrimage Even if the luggage is stolen, the pilgrimage is still great! ⑧Zhejiang West Sky Road Spectacular Zhejiang West Canyon and top slope ⑨Thousand Island Lake Road Bicycle Race On the fully enclosed track, easily up to 35+km/h. ⑩Zhoushan Circle, Zhujiashan Circle The most cost-effective island cycling tour in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai.

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through two of Sri Lanka's most captivating cities, Colombo and Galle, where beauty and affordability merge seamlessly. Begin your adventure in Colombo, the bustling capital city, renowned for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and picturesque waterfront. Discover the allure of Galle, a charming coastal town famous for its well-preserved Dutch colonial fort and pristine beaches. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of these destinations, all while keeping your budget intact. Explore Colombo's array of affordable accommodations, indulge in delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs at pocket-friendly prices. In Galle, discover affordable guesthouses and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views without breaking the bank. This enchanting Colombo-to-Galle journey promises an unforgettable experience packed with stunning sights, affordability, and the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality. #beachlife #summervacation #srilanka

Sandagiri Maha Seya is a Buddhist temple in Central Province SRI LANKA. Sandagiri Maha Seya is situated nearby to Sandagiri Maha Viharaya, and close to Church.

Not many will think of Colombo, Sri Lanka as a bucketlist for a tourist destination, many also will think that Sri Lanka is also part of India. Let's throw that all away! Sri Lanka is a place popular with the many tea plantations thruout the entire country and to see that, hop onto one of the most scenic train ride that starts from Ella To Bandulla. The entire journey we paid was about $1 but of course don't expect 1st class treatment in the train, but you will be able to reserve a seat in one of the carriage to give you panoramic view of the surrounding where you will meet tea plantations, scenic Mountain backdrops and thru the many towns, its a relatively relaxing route. Do take the train ride all the way to Badulla to have a view of the Demodara Loop where you can see the Arch Bridge(which was built in 19 century?) making this one of the worth while trip on the train. #bucketlistreboot #srilanka #colombo #nature #teaplantations #scenic #trainride #mustvisit

Colombo is the comercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. The best place to stay is the Kollupitiya neighborhood so you can see the colonial architecture at walking distance, also the largest market is there: Kollupitiya Market. Near downtown there are many landmarks worth to visit such as Colombo Lotus Tower and Gangaramaya temple. #travellater #colombo #srilanka

We booked anantara for our get together. It was an amazing, lovely place. Staff was very helpful. Food was very delicious. The rooms were specious with nice architecture and we booked ocean view.There were many things to see and many activities to do. Highly recommend ! 5/5 Guys . Hope to go there again. #urbanexplorer #momentsmission #thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding

My first recommend special point is CAPE'S Location. It's situated in Weligama point. I think this is the better hotel in Sri Lanka. because if you can see the fantastic unbelievable image. It's sea.I can't explain this seen.then another point is Health good friendly foods. perfect. Superb. #urbanexplorer #momentsmission #thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#islandtravel#themepark#nationalpark#beaches#infinitypool#camping#naturalwonders#bestislandtraveltowns#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café

One of the best hotels I've visited so far. Very luxurious & calm environment to relax in the southern coast. Rooms were very spacious & food was great. All staff helped us a lot in many ways & the welcoming was very warm. Highly recommended & should visit place for every traveller who is seeking luxury hospitality. This resort is located in Pallikkudawa Rural, Sri Lanka. #urbanexplorer #momentsmission #thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#islandtravel#themepark#nationalpark#beaches#infinitypool#camping#naturalwonders#bestislandtraveltowns#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café

Came to Santani to participate in a trek through the Knuckles mountains. We were in a group. Service, food, ambience and spa all excellent. I will definitely come back. The location is stunning, The hotel is stunning, The spa is surreal, The food is exquisite, The service is impeccable, What more does one need #urbanexplorer #momentsmission #thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding

Now is a good time to explore the magical country of Sri Lanka since it’s still affordable and uncrowded, something that will change in the future since it is predicted that more and more travelers will flock to the Indian Ocean’s largest island. #urbanexplorer #momentsmission #thanksgiving#luxuryhotel#skiing#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#deserts#romanticrestaurant#bestislandtraveltowns#museumquest#beautifulsunsets#themeparks#café#historicculture#scubadiving#paragliding

it’s beautiful country and kindly people #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

If you’re looking for a cheap places to visit in summer in the world, Colombo is Sri Lanka is the best place to go. With weather and a landscape much like India, this place offers the perfect experience to enjoy a respite from heat and embrace it like a pro. There’s nothing in Colombo that you wouldn’t like and that’s what makes it so special. It is one of the best holiday destinations in the world. Tourist Attractions: Visit the National Museum of Colombo Best Time To Visit: April to May How To Reach: Fly to Colombo International Airport Places To Visit: Beira Lake, Paradise Road, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Hall, and more Things To Do: Visit the Galle Face Green, shopping, sightseeing, trying the different Sri Lankan cuisine, and more. Places To Stay: Iconic, Marino Beach Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside, and Grand Oriental Hotel Places To Eat: Rare at Residence, The Lagoon, Curry Leaf, and Graze Kitchen #bestislandtraveltowns#naturalwonders#themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

Hello ,Again welcome to visit Sri Lanka#travel#photographyguide#enjoyinglife #travelinspiration#travelstories#travelhotels #holiday couplestrip#relax#holidayhotel#dasunlankatour# #naturalwonders#hiking#loveflowers#roadtrip

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It's very Wonderful place in Sri Lanka Airport

Sri Lanka is probably the most tranquil place I have ever been to. Take me back to sitting on the edge of this pool, enjoying the jungle view!

Sir Lanka is such a beautiful country 😍 especially traveling with a local give you a chance to explorer an other side of the otherwise a bit crowded places. #historicallandmarks #travellikealocal #travelinspiration #instagramworthydestinations #unforgettableexperiences #merrychristmas #merrychristmas

Wake up to a luxurious sea view at Weligama Bay Marriott in the morning, and end your Sri Lanka nature and culture exploration with a romantic coastal train ride. A perfect end to your trip. ⛱️Must-see attractions: 1. Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa: A sea view and surfing paradise. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Indian Ocean from the private balcony of your hotel room in the morning. The beach downstairs is a paradise for surfers, with gentle waves suitable for beginners. The hotel is close to Mirissa Beach (a whale-watching paradise), Galle Fort (a colonial relic), and Yala National Park (a wildlife safari), so you can arrange a short trip. 2. Sri Lanka Coastal Line: We recommend the Galle-Colombo section, which is known as the "coastal train" and runs along the coastline. The view of the blue sea and sky outside the window is like a scene from Spirited Away. We recommend choosing a seat on the sea side. The whole journey takes about 2.5 hours. 3. Colombo landmarks: Independence Square, a symbol of Sri Lanka's independence, where Premier Zhou Enlai once gave a speech. Galle Face Green, where you can watch the sunset in the evening and experience the local life in Colombo. 🏨Accommodation tips: The first choice is definitely Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa: We stayed for two nights, and the facilities and services were top-notch. The hotel offers ocean-view rooms, an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a modern gym. Some suites are equipped with electric curtains and a private balcony clothes rack. The dining experience is also great. The breakfast includes Sri Lankan tea, and you can find authentic Sichuan restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, which we recommend to those who miss Chinese food. In Colombo, you can also choose the Ocean Colombo Hotel by the sea. In Galle, we recommend a boutique hotel near Unawatuna Beach. 💌Visa tips: Until 2025 (currently), Sri Lanka is still visa-free for Chinese tourists, with a maximum stay of 30 days. 💬Common language: English is widely used in hotels, attractions, and transportation hubs, and locals can generally communicate in simple English. Sinhala/Tamil is the main local language, but tourists don't need to learn it. 🌎️Mobile and wireless network: We recommend enabling international roaming. You can buy a Dialog data package at the airport or in the city for about USD 10/10GB. Hotels generally have Wi-Fi, with high-speed and stable signals. 💰️Payment: The rupee is the main currency in circulation. Small vendors and tuk-tuks generally only accept cash, while hotels, large restaurants, and shopping malls accept Visa/Mastercard. 💗Other tips: The coastal train is very cheap, with a third-class ticket costing only 40 rupees. There are no fixed seats, and you will see many people leaning out of the train door to take photos while the train is running. Please be careful, as there have been accidents involving people hanging outside the train to take photos.

#newyearnewtrip Patuxay Victory Monument in Sri Lanka is a symbol of triumph and resilience. This impressive structure stands tall in Colombo, commemorating the country’s independence and honoring the sacrifices made for freedom. With its stunning design and panoramic views of the city, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. Location: Patuxay Victory Monument, Colombo, Sri Lanka 🕰️Business Hours: 24 hours #colombo #srilanka

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Mirissa Beach in Sri Lanka is a picturesque paradise, with golden sands bordered by lush palm trees. Its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant sunsets make it an Instagram-worthy destination. Whether you’re lounging under the palms, taking a dip in the warm ocean, or snapping photos of the scenic views, Mirissa is a perfect tropical getaway. #srilanka #travel #beachlife 📍Address: Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is a historic landmark in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Its distinctive red and white candy-striped façade makes it a must-visit attraction. Visitors can explore the mosque's exterior and courtyard, immersing themselves in its rich cultural heritage. Business Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with closures during prayer times and on Fridays at noon. $ Average Price per Person: Free but donations are encouraged #travel #srilanka #mustvisit #mosque

Little Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka offers an easy yet rewarding hike with breathtaking views. The trail is relatively short, making it accessible to all levels of hikers. The journey takes you through lush greenery and scenic landscapes, leading to a summit that unveils panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains—truly one of the most beautiful places ever visited. #travel #srilanka #hike #Littleadamspeak

Sri Lankan food is widely praised for its vibrant, complex flavors, with a strong emphasis on spice and coconut, featuring dishes like rice and curry as the staple, alongside unique options like hoppers (pancake-like flatbreads), kottu roti (chopped roti with spices), and lamprais (wrapped rice with curries), often described as a delicious mix of textures and tastes, making it a great culinary experience for adventurous eaters; however, be prepared for the potential heat from the chili-based curries. #srilanka

Riding from Ella to Yala National Forest is a lot of scenery and interesting sites. A lot of waterfalls and natural beauty. A number of road side temples on these winding mountain roads. #travel#naturalwonders

🌈Sri Lanka, rated as the best travel destination by Lonely Planet, is like a dazzling pearl in the Indian Ocean💎. Here, you can explore gems, tea🍵, sea trains🚞, island scenery🏝, wildlife🐘, and exotic culture🗺. 📅Recommended travel duration: 7 days 📍Recommended attractions: 1️⃣Coastal Line: Travel along the coast and experience the dreamlike scenes of Spirited Away🚂 2️⃣Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Visit the sacred site by Kandy Lake and feel the compassion and wisdom of the Buddha🙏 3️⃣Sigiriya: Climb to the top of the red rock and admire the magnificence of the "Eighth Wonder of the World"🦁 4️⃣Mirissa: Dance with blue whales and dolphins and enjoy a unique sea journey🐬 5️⃣Minneriya National Park: Get up close to herds of wild elephants and experience the charm of nature🐘 6️⃣Galle Fort: Stroll through the blend of history and culture and experience the perfect combination of South Asia and Europe🏰 💖Sri Lanka, a treasure trove of travel destinations with great value for money, awaits you for a perfect blend of nature and culture!🌴🌊

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a vast and enjoyable place to explore. For just 2000 Sri Lankan Rupees, you can rent a small vehicle to tour the park. One of the highlights is the trees filled with bats, as shown in one of the pictures. Additionally, there are trees planted by Zhou Enlai and Deng Yingchao in 1957 and 1977, respectively. Along the roadside, you can find durians for 1500 Rupees, which is approximately 40 RMB. They are quite sweet, although the durian flavor is not very strong. #SriLanka #Kandy #RoyalBotanicGardens