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 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.

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: Shuttle to Tangalle/Hiriketiya with Yala Safari

From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle/Hiriketiya with Yala Safari

Combine a transfer from Ella to Tangalle/Hiriketiya with a day trip to Yala National Park. Experience the immense biodiversity on this Sri Lankan animal safari. After being picked up at your accommodation in Ella, you will arrive at Yala National Park, meet your local guide and board an an open-topped 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. Heading back to your air-conditioned car for the ride to your accommodation in Tangalle or Hiriketiya.

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.

Colombo City Tour by Tuk Tuk Experience Morning or Evening

Colombo City Tour by Tuk Tuk Experience Morning or Evening

1. Clock Tower – Start your journey at the iconic Clock Tower, a relic of Colombo's colonial legacy. 2. Cargills Building – Marvel at the grandeur of this historic architectural masterpiece. 3. Old Town Hall – Admire the elegant colonial design of this British-era landmark. 4. Pettah Market – Soak in the vibrant energy of Colombo’s busiest market, brimming with color and life. 5. Red Mosque – Visit the captivating Red Mosque, a fusion of beauty and tradition. 6. Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil – Discover the spiritual and cultural significance of this Hindu sanctuary. 7. Lotus Tower – Witness the modern skyline from the towering Lotus Tower, offering sweeping city views. 8. Gangarama Temple – Explore this serene Buddhist temple, renowned for its intricate design and sacred artifacts. 9. Town Hall – Enjoy the surrounding greenery and admire the stately architecture of this civic landmark. 10. Victoria Park – Relax in this peaceful oasis nestled amidst the city’s bustle. 11. Independence Memorial Hall – Reflect on Sri Lanka’s journey to freedom at this iconic monument. 12. Galle Face Green – Stroll along this breezy coastal expanse, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. 13. Old Parliament – Appreciate the colonial charm of this historic legislative building. 14. Lighthouse – Conclude your tour with sweeping views of the coastline from the Lighthouse. 15. Colombo Port Maritime Museum – Dive into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture through fascinating exhibits. 16. Ceylon Tea Tasting – Savor a complimentary selection of Ceylon’s finest teas. This tuk-tuk ride offers a perfect mix of Colombo’s heritage, spirituality, and urban charm, promising a memorable city experience!

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 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!

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

From Colombo: Sigiriya and Dambulla Day Trip and Safari

Departure from Colombo The journey begins early with pick-ups from Colombo between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, followed by departure via the Mirigama highway to Kurunegala. The comfortable drive offers a chance to relax and enjoy scenic countryside views. Staying on schedule is key to reaching sightseeing spots on time. Breakfast Stop in Kurunegala At 8:30 AM, enjoy a breakfast stop at Café Amakie in Kurunegala, offering a selection of local and international dishes (self-paid). Departing on time is essential, as Dambulla Cave Temple closes from 10:30–10:45 AM for worship. Staying on schedule ensures a smooth visit before the closure. Exploring Dambulla Cave Temple By 10:00 AM, arrive at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO heritage site known for its Buddhist murals, rock-cut statues, and ancient monastery. The visit involves a short but slightly challenging climb. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views and explore Sri Lanka’s rich history. Enter before 10:30 AM to avoid the 10:30–10:45 AM closure for worship. Climbing Sigiriya Lion Rock After exploring Dambulla, a 20-minute drive takes you to Sigiriya Lion Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Arriving around 11:30 AM, travelers begin the 1,200-step climb to the summit. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes, carry a hat/cap, and bring a water bottle. Along the way, see the Sigiriya frescoes, Mirror Wall, and Lion’s Paws, before reaching the stunning panoramic views at the top. The visit, including the climb and descent, takes about 2 to 3 hours. Lunch or Village Tour After the climb, travelers can choose to enjoy a relaxing lunch at a selected restaurant or take part in an authentic village tour for a unique cultural experience. The village tour begins with a bullock cart ride through scenic landscapes, followed by a canoe ride across a tranquil lake. Upon reaching a village house, a delicious homemade meal featuring local flavors will be served. The experience concludes with a tuk-tuk ride back, allowing travelers to interact with friendly villagers and experience their way of life. Optional Wildlife Safari & Leisure Time For those opting for the wildlife safari, an exciting adventure awaits at Eco Park, Kaudulla National Park, or Minneriya National Park. The safari lasts around 2.5 hours, offering the chance to spot wild elephants, deer, exotic birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. For travelers not participating in the safari, time can be spent relaxing at a restaurant, exploring the local area, or enjoying some shopping. Visitors can browse batik and silk stores for handcrafted textiles or unwind with a traditional Ayurvedic massage by an experienced therapist. Return to Colombo Between 5:45 PM and 6:00 PM, the group departs from Sigiriya for the return journey to Colombo. Travelers can relax and unwind during the comfortable drive. Arrival is expected between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, with drop-offs at individual locations, marking the end of a memorable day.

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.

Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour

Udawalawe: National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home Tour

Explore one of Sri Lanka's best wildlife reserves on this 4x4 Jeep safari tour at Udawalawe National Park. Spot wild animals and interact with baby elephants at the Elephant Transit Home. Enjoy a more convenient trip with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Enter the park via a 4-wheel drive Jeep to start your tour. Spend some time among the amazing wildlife of Sri Lanka and discover the beauty of Udawalawe National Park and its thriving elephant population. Get a chance to see wild buffalos, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boars, sambars, hares, mongoose, crocodiles, and 30 species of snakes. You can also find 50 species of butterflies and many species of birds in the park. Next, stop at the Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours and take a closer look at hundreds of wild elephant babies. The park sustains large numbers of elephants with its abundant water sources. After the thrill of your safari, finish your experience with a return transfer to your pickup location.

Kandy: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk-Tuk

Kandy: Private Guided Tour of the City by Tuk-Tuk

Explore the most iconic sites of Kandy as you get to know your guide and their hometown. Contact the guide before the tour begins to customize the tour and choose the sites you would most like to see. Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, situated in the Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Drive to the Queen's Bathing Pavilion and the National Museum of Kandy. Head to the Buddhist Temple which sits at the top of a hill with a breathtaking view. Stop here to take photos and admire the views of the city and surrounding areas. On the way to a tea plantation, pass along the banks of the river Mahawali. Hopefully, you will get to see monkeys during the tour and possibly spot a jaguar in the distance along the river. Take a break to grab some food at a local restaurant with the guide’s recommendation. Discuss the rest of your plans for the day while asking for tips on places to visit during your stay.

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What people are saying about Sri Lanka

Overall rating

4.5
(633 reviews)

Sadees was our guide, he took a lot of time for us and was very friendly. The tour was not too short and not too long, we learnt a lot about the tea plantations and also saw a beautiful waterfall. He also gave us some tips on what else to do in Nuwara Eliya. Sadees is highly recommended!

Amazing trip, our guide Lalith was great and very knowledgeable. He took us to great places and even organized a last minute safari where we saw 2 elephant families!

The food was so tasty and the class was so fun and easy to follow. Ranji is an amazing host and cook. I totally recommend this activity in Ella.

the tour was great, Madawa was very knowledgeable, passionate and engaging. would recommend to anyone looking for a walking tour in galle

very traditional, yummy food and interesting facts