The 3 Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, formerly known as ‘Ceylon’, has recently gained popularity as one of a ‘must visit’ country in Southeast Asia. Before embarking on my first trip to Southeast Asia, I admittedly did not know much about Sri Lanka aside from being able to recognize a few key landmarks around the country. So, you may be wondering why visit? Is it worth it? And, where should you go when in Sri Lanka?

In the list below, I will discuss three things to do when in Sri Lanka and why this country is worth a visit as soon as possible!

#1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Temple of the Tooth is located in Kandy, the country’s second largest city. The temple is frequented by locals and remains of deep importance to practicing Buddhists in the area. Unlike other temples I have visited, the Temple of the Tooth had an unmistakable atmosphere of calm despite seeing many visitors a day.

For a fee of 1500 LKR (~$8) foreign tourists can take in the beautiful ambiance of the temple in addition to admiring beautiful paintings. As an exemplar of Sri Lanka’s architectural gems, the temple stands out to be for its stunning details and authenticity. The temple is famous for housing a tooth encased in gold that attracts both locals and visitors. However, as the largest temple in the surrounding area, the temple retains a local feel. As of early 2019, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of locals compared to foreign tourists.

This being said, I advise planning a morning visit if possible. Although the temple is open from 5:30 AM – 8 PM daily, it is best to go before 10 AM in order to beat the heat and crowds. A guide is not needed to explore the Temple of the Tooth, however by asking local staff to point you toward the ‘Lake Trail’, you can walk around Kandy Lake or stop for a cup of tea before heading onto your next landmark.

The official address for the temple is:
Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000

A sacred space in the temple reserved for prayer

#2. Sunrise Hike to Pidurangala Rock

Buddha statue that can be seen on the hike to Pidurangala Rock

Sri Lanka is often referred to a hiker’s paradise. Although known as a small country, Sri Lanka houses great diversity that includes, but is not limited to beaches, mountains, tea plantations and more. As you travel through Sri Lanka, you will likely hear about Little Adams Peak, Adams Peak, and Sigiriya. However, often lost among the many beautiful hikes is a cheaper alternative to Lion’s Rock located in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka.

For just 500 LKR (~$3), you can hike up to Pidurangala Rock, which provides stunning views of Sigiriya Rock from above in addition to farm land and good memories! Located approximately 20 minutes from Lion’s Rock, most people set out for a sunrise hike in order to hike both rocks in the same day! Whether you are doing one or both hikes, it is recommended to catch the sunrise while overlooking Sigiriya Rock as Lion’s Rock does not open until 7 AM.

If you are staying in Dambulla in order to reach the starting point of the
Pidurangala Rock hike around 5 AM, you will need to leave around 4:30. The trail is straightforward and well-maintained aside from a few lose stones. However, hiking shoes, headlights, and water is recommended as it is a scramble to the top of the rock for the last 10 minutes of the hike.

#3. Walk through Tea Plantations in Ella

My list would not be complete if I did not speak to one of Sri Lanka’s most well-known trademarks: tea plantations! After leaving the ‘cultural triangle’, visitors can explore the towns of Nuwara Eilya and Ella, that are home to copious amounts of tea plantations!

By taking the train from Kandy to Ella, tourists can experience what is said to be the most beautiful train ride in the world! Although the journey takes about 6 hours, you will get a taste of local Sri Lankan life that would otherwise be missed.

Upon reaching Ella, you can arrange a tour of the surrounding area by car or for the more adventurous, by bus heading toward Haputhale!

In Haputhale, visitors can hike to Lipton’s Seat. The viewpoint can be reached by a ~7 kilometer hike through tea plantations, paved roads, and a small Sri Lankan village. The hike is unforgettable, but a guide is recommended.