Things to do in
Sri Lanka

Our most recommended things to do in Sri Lanka

Yala National Park: Morning or Afternoon Golden Hour Safari

Yala National Park: Morning or Afternoon Golden Hour Safari

After being picked up from your hotel/location in the local area you will enter Yala National Park to explore the light forests, scrubs, grasslands, lagoons, and magnificent range of animals. With your private 4WD Jeep and expert guide, the ‘Golden Hours’ of the day will be used to focus on leopard spotting, either the first 2 hours or the last 2 hours of the day. Throughout this safari, you will search for the world’s most concentrated number of leopards, sloth bears, and elephants, as your knowledgeable guide and driver expertly navigates the vast area and roads. The morning tour will begin at 5am from your hotel, to take in sunrise as the park opens at 6am. Whilst the afternoon option allows you to explore from 2pm until sunset when the park closes at 6pm. Situated on Sri Lanka’s south-east, hugging the panoramic Indian Ocean, Yala is a wildlife sanctuary and home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. Leopards, elephants, water buffalo, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles can all be found in this rich environment.

Galle: Traditional Jewelry Making Workshop with Transfers

Galle: Traditional Jewelry Making Workshop with Transfers

This workshop demonstrates you how to make a custom piece of jewelry using Silver in traditional way . Your "experience" is to actively participate and get your hands on Melting metals/Gauging/ Soldering/Designing/Hammering/ Embedding gems/Smoothing and Polishing involves in jewelry making. You will become familiar with all Traditional techniques that are involved. If you have been dreaming of wearing a piece of jewelry contributed by yourself then this activity is for you. Apart from that you are able to , * Touch and examine gems from local mines & Learn how to Identify real gems from artificial ones. * Buy all types of gemstones and custom made jewelries for a reasonable price. * Get a free Raw moonstone at the end of experience.

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

Depart Colombo and travel by a shared vehicle, in a small group, to the city of Sigiriya, and head directly to Sigiriya Rock on arrival. Gaze in awe at the massive column of rock that, according to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle The Culavamsa, was selected by King Kassyapa as the site of his new capital. Admire numerous paintings of historic queens, princesses, and maids inside the rock fortress before getting a break for lunch at your own expense. Then, explore some of the traditional crafts of the region, such as wood carving and batik textiles, with time to purchase souvenirs before departing. Start the journey back towards Colombo via Dambulla to explore the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and rock paintings of vivid colors and different shapes, painted from around the 2nd century B.C. up to the 18th-century Kandyan era. Optionally Can be done the Wild Life Safari at Eco Park or Kaudulla National Park or Minneriya National park charges for National Park very on Pax Count ( For solo Passengers $ 100 & $ 60 )

Ella: Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class

Ella: Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class

Be greeted by your instructor and enter an open-air kitchen that allows you to appreciate the surrounding greenery and get better ventilation while you cook. Start your cooking adventure by being introduced to fresh ingredients. Immerse yourself in local culture as you follow step-by-step instructions to create a tasty meal. Make traditional Sri Lankan dishes, such as hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), rice and curry, string hoppers and honey roti. Prepare farm-fresh produce to add pops of brilliant and healthy color to your plate. Once your dinner or lunch is ready, sit down to savor the fruits of your labor. Skip the dishes while avoiding waste by eating off a banana leaf like locals do. Take your new cooking skills home with you to share with friends and family with the recipes that are sent digitally after class.

From Ella: Kandy Train Tickets with 2nd Class Reserved Seats

From Ella: Kandy Train Tickets with 2nd Class Reserved Seats

From Ella to Kandy Train Tickets - (2nd Class Reserved Seats) Experience a Scenic Train Journey Through Sri Lanka's Highland Countryside Travel in comfort with second-class reserved train tickets from Ella to Kandy. This iconic journey through Sri Lanka's picturesque highlands is regarded as one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Relax in your reserved seat and witness the beautiful countryside unfold through your window. Highlights: # Reserved Seating: Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reserved second-class seat. # Scenic Views: Marvel at the misty mountains, green tea plantations, picturesque villages, and magnificent waterfalls. # Cultural Immersion: Experience the authentic charm of Sri Lanka as you travel through its heartland. # Convenient Ticketing: Avoid the hassle of last-minute ticket purchases. Have your tickets bought in advance and delivered to you. Details: # Departure: Ella Railway Station # Arrival: Kandy Railway Station # Class: Second-Class Reserved Seats # Duration: Approximately 7-10 hours Important Notice: # Non-Refundable and Non-Cancellable: Once booked, tickets cannot be cancelled or refunded. # After booking, you will receive an email with an e-ticket. This e-ticket cannot be used to board the train. # To secure your original train ticket, please contact our office via WhatsApp at or email at ellaexcursionstours@gmail.com. Send a copy of your passport to finalize the purchase. # Remember, this train departs from Ella Station and you can alight at Kandy Station. Booking Includes: # Reserved second-class seat from Ella to Kandy # Delivery of your train ticket to the railway station or your hotel Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Sri Lanka with this unforgettable train journey. Book your tickets now and travel the authentic way!

Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Galle/Hikkaduwa & Yala Safari Tour

Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Galle/Hikkaduwa & Yala Safari Tour

Combine a transfer from Ella, Haputale, or Bandarawela to Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle or Hikkaduwa area with a thrilling day trip to Yala National Park. Experience the immense biodiversity of this park on this Sri Lankan animal safari. Be picked up from your accommodation in Ella, Haputale, or Bandarawela. Relax and take in the local scenery on the drive to Yala National Park. Board an open-topped safari jeep to get the best views and photo angles. See the animals during the day when they are the most active. Watch for leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalos, and a large variety of bird species. Get some great shots of these magnificent creatures. Hear about wildlife and get photography tips from your local guide. Let your guide show you the spots where the animals are likely to congregate. Then, head back to your air-conditioned car for the ride to your accommodation in Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle or Hikkaduwa.

From Ella: All-Inclusive Day Trip to Unlimited Landmarks

From Ella: All-Inclusive Day Trip to Unlimited Landmarks

Title: Discover Ella: Guided Tour of Unlimited Iconic Attractions Introduction: Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the enchanting village paradise of Ella, nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, with our guided tour. Immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage as you visit the most iconic tourist attractions, including the Nine Arches Bridge, Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Demodara Loop, and Rawana Waterfall. Let our experienced guide lead the way as you uncover the best of Ella's natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Tour Itinerary: # Hotel Pickup: Your tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in the Ella, Bandarawela , Haputhale area, where you'll meet your guide and set off on your adventure. # Hike to Ella Rock: Start your day with a scenic hike to Ella Rock, a breathtaking vantage point offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Take a break for refreshments amidst the natural beauty. # Visit Nine Arches Bridge: Explore the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a fascinating example of colonial engineering that spans across lush green valleys. # Discover Demodara Loop: Next, marvel at the engineering marvel of Demodara Loop, where the railway line loops back under itself, creating a captivating spectacle. # Explore Rawana Waterfall: Experience the majestic beauty of Rawana Waterfall, where cascading waters plunge into a serene pool surrounded by verdant foliage. # Hike to Little Adam’s Peak: Embark on a memorable hike to Little Adam’s Peak, renowned for its stunning views of the Ella region and beyond. # Sunset Spectacle: Watch the mesmerizing sunset over the mountains from the summit of Little Adam's Peak, capturing unforgettable moments. # Hotel Drop-off: Conclude your tour with a drop-off back at your hotel in Ella,Bandarawela , Haputhale, filled with memories of your exhilarating day of exploration. Tour Highlights: # Scenic Hikes: Enjoy invigorating hikes to Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Ella region. # Cultural Landmarks: Explore iconic attractions such as the Nine Arches Bridge and Demodara Loop, showcasing the rich history and heritage of Sri Lanka. # Natural Wonders: Discover the beauty of Rawana Waterfall, a magnificent natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery. # Sunset Splendor: Witness the captivating sunset from the summit of Little Adam's Peak, creating unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the Ella mountains. Embark on a journey of discovery and wonder as you uncover the best of Ella's attractions with our guided tour. Experience the beauty, serenity, and charm of this idyllic destination, leaving you with cherished memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Ella: First-Class Scenic Train Ticket To/From Kandy

Ella: First-Class Scenic Train Ticket To/From Kandy

Board your train in Kandy or Ella and begin your magical journey through rugged mountains, lush greenery, and pristine lakes. Find your seats in the first-class section of the train and settle in. As you ride to Kandy, the train will first pass through a narrow ridge and misty green forests before reaching Ella Rock and several rushing waterfalls. Continue through Haputale to reach the tea villages and plantations in Nanu-Oya. Continue through luscious fields of tea to cross into Horton Plains, keeping an eye out for deer and rhododendrons. As enter your final stretch, enjoy the views of green rolling hills before pulling into Kandy/Ella (Based on direction of your journey), a bustling city.

From Kandy: Sigiraya Day Tour

From Kandy: Sigiraya Day Tour

* Pickup @7.45am In Kandy Pickup ➡️ Matale Hindu Temple ➡️ Wood Carving Center ➡️ Sigiriya Lion Rock ➡️Cave Temple ➡️ Spice & Herbs Garden ➡️ Drop-off (Your hotel in kandy) • Sigiriya Village Safari (Optional) • Gems Museum (Optional) Get picked up directly from your accommodation and travel by tuk-tuk to the city of Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress. Marvel at the 200-meter-tall Sigiriya Rock, which, according to an ancient Sri Lankan chronicle, was selected by King Kasyapa as the site of his new capital. Then, see some of the traditional crafts of the region such as wood carving and batik textiles, a dyeing technique developed in ancient times. Take a piece of traditional craft home with you as a souvenir. Afterward, journey to Dambulla and explore the largest and most well-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and vividly colored rock paintings, painted between the 2nd century BC and the 18th-century Kandyan era before returning to Kandy.

From Ella: Yala National Park Safari Tour in a 4x4

From Ella: Yala National Park Safari Tour in a 4x4

Your experience begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Ella. From there, relax on your drive to Yala National Park, home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. Meet your private guide and climb into a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. Enjoy sunrise at the park — the ‘Golden Hours’ of the day — and explore the light forests, scrubs, grasslands, lagoons, and magnificent range of animals. After the safari, journey back to your point of origin to be dropped off back to your accommodation.

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What people are saying about Sri Lanka

Overall rating

4.5
(633 reviews)

We had an amazing experience on top of the Lotus Tower. We were able to enjoy delicious food from 7+ cuisines with the widest selection of food I have ever seen: fresh sushi and seafood, handmade fresh gyozas, curries, soups, breads, meats (pork, chicken, beef, duck…), lassagne, pizza, salads, 15+ types of cheese and hams and deli, omg! And the desserts were amazing too: tiramisu, chocolate mousse, cakes, ice creams and fruit with a chocolate fountain. I had never tried so much food in one meal. I shared my experience in video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_SL80sIGKo/?igsh=ZTk0Y3FqMmRqY2Y5

Saana is a great guide . It’s good to do a hike with a person with a positive disposition. Pleasing nature , good vibe. Especially if you haven’t been much of a hiker like me. It’s a little adventure of sorts to do Ella rock in the morning hours and having someone along makes the whole hike faster and smoother. There’s a lot to catch up with in Ella. If you want to squeeze in more , would recommend doing this hike in the morning.

The trip was incredible :) Rumma was great, very punctual and very patient. Tim was very responsive and always taking into consideration everything we wanted to do. The only feedback I have is about the car, just a bit too small room for the legs for such a long drive. Thanks Tim for the fantastic experience.

The trip was great and I really reccomend booking a tour with Wicky! He knows English very well and is such a nice person. He showed us many places and added more things to our itinerary, made stops when we wanted to take photos and told us many amazing stories. I couln't be happier about the trip!

I had the best time! It was a really fun, informative and accommodating guide!