Go to beautiful places that are renowned for their distinctive architecture. Nature and art are combined in the Lunganga Estate designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. The design of the Independence Memorial Hall embodies freedom from British Rule. As such there are a number of places that are very valuable.
Sampling local cuisine on food tours
As you visit different cities, sample the different cuisines that each one is famous for. Savour traditional Kandy cuisine, Galle seafood or the delights of Colombo street food. These are only a handful of the incredible culinary adventures that await you.
City tours
Discover historic cities that were once enduring kingdoms. A wealth of information about Sri Lanka's past can be gained from the ruins strewn throughout the cities. Examine the main cities of Kandy, Jaffna, Galle, Nuwara Eliya and Colombo when you visit during the dry season.
Cultural festivals or events
Its colorful festivals and events which go well with the stunning scenery and varied cultures have made this tropical island famous. Festivals in Sri Lanka provide an opportunity to highlight the different cultures, religions, values and unity of the country. With their festive processions and customs, Sri Lankan festivals offer both locals and tourists an unforgettable and immersive celebration experience.
Exploring museums and art galleries
Many Sri Lankan museums showcase a particular aspect of the country's culture. The crown and jewels of Sri Lanka's last monarch are housed in the National Museum. A variety of unearthed artefacts are kept in the Jaffna Archeological Museum, and the historic elements of nature can be found in the displays at the National History Museum. For an amazing view of art visit these museums and the others that are located here as well as the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery.
Visiting historical landmarks
Many historic sites that are deeply ingrained in the history of the island will be encountered as you travel through Sri Lanka. Ancient cities like Anuradhapura which served as the nation's governing body, Galle and Jaffna forts which represent Sri Lanka's colonial past and others.
Deep Sea Fishing
Fishing in the deep sea. Some places where tourists can try deep-sea fishing are Bentota Negombo Trincomalee and Mirissa. Take a boat trip to the deep sea to try your hand at fishing new fish species that aren't typically found near the coast. The best time to visit the South is from November to April. For the east, May through September are the ideal months.
Cycling
December to March is Sri Lanka's dry season. While visiting some of Sri Lanka's most important sites, that is the ideal time to go for a leisurely bike ride. Places like Sigiriya, Galle Fort, Nuwara Eliya and the Cultural Triangle are must-visit locations to comprehend the true beauty of Sri Lanka.
White Water Rafting
Whitewater rafting is a popular activity in Kitulgala. The monsoon rains will feed the rivers, making May through December the ideal time to engage in this heart-pounding activity.
Hot Air Ballooning
November through April is the ideal time of year to travel to Sigiriya or Dambulla for a hot air balloon ride through the clouds when the wind is calm and the sky is clear. This opportunity allows visitors to see the beloved areas of these cities from a different perspective.
Zip lining
For an exhilarating zip-lining experience, visit Kitulgala Forest Reserve or Ella Adventure Park. You can see the sights from above with this heart-pounding activity as the zipline takes you on a 500-metre journey at speeds of 128 kmph (80 mph).
Snorkelling or Scuba Diving
During November to April, on the southwest coast and May to September on the east coast snorkelling at Hikkaduwa, Pigeon Island and Unawatuna offers some of the most delightful sights of stunning coral reefs where small colourful schools of fish can be seen hiding.
Wildlife Safaris
As they travel in a safari jeep, visitors can get up close and personal with wildlife in Sri Lanka's breathtaking national parks including Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Wilpattu National Park and more. For dry zones February through October is ideal and for wet zones December through April.
Hiking
From December to April during the dry season, trek through mountains while visiting picturesque spots. A few places where you can trek through beautiful trails are Adam's Peak, Ella Rock, Sinharaja Rainforest and the Knuckles Mountain range.
Staying with a host family for a homestay experience
Engage in a homestay to gain a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan culture and traditions. Learn the Sri Lankan ways of life from dawn to dusk, understand how to cook, and enjoy the genuine connection you can have with locals. This opportunity is available at any given time.
Volunteering with local communities
Volunteer and support the local communities in Sigiriya or Anuradhapura, two rural towns. With this opportunity, you can do a service to the locals who are in need. It is a charitable event that can be done through various reputable organisations year-round in Sri Lanka.
Learning a new language or skill
You can try learning a new language or skill at the language centres in Colombo or Kandy if you want to get more familiar with this new culture. During any month of the year during your visit, learn some basic fundamentals that will allow you to be warmly greeted by locals as you travel through Sri Lanka.
Traditional craft workshops
Get familiar with the age-old crafts and arts that have been handed down through the years. Mask-making is popular in Ambalangoda while woodworking is a well-known activity in Kandy. Visit Matale for instructions on handling and painting batiks. This year-round activity is available at these locations.
Cooking Classes or culinary tours
Visitors can cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes during this year-round activity. This endeavour allows you to understand how the aromatic sensational dishes of Sri Lanka are constructed and will give you the knowledge to do it yourself when in your home country. Explore places where you can take culinary tours or learn to cook like Galle Kandy and Colombo at any given time.
Sunset Cruises or Boat Rides
As you cruise the ocean head out to the horizon to watch the sunset. The ideal time frame to engage in this activity on the Southwest Coast is November through April. For the East Coast, May through September is ideal. They provide enjoyable boat trips at Bentota, Madu Ganga, Mirissa and Trincomalee.
Thermal Baths or Hot Spring Visits
The Maha Oya Spring in the eastern province has natural hot springs that will immerse you in peace and offer enticing relief. All year round, these hot springs retain their rejuvenating qualities making it an exciting visit.
Fish Therapy and Foot Reflexology
In natural water streams, visitors can most effectively experience the benefits of natural fish spa therapy. The hundreds of toothless fish in the streams of natural water may give a soothing tingling massage when the temperature is just right. When in Mount Lavinia Beach, Galle or Bentota at any month, you can enjoy this tingling activity.
Spa Treatments and Wellness Therapies
Pamper yourself by taking part in spa treatments and wellness therapies. Experience the bliss of spa treatments that will leave you feeling new. As you relax the tension in your body will be released with this year-round activity. These treatments are always easily accessible in hotels in Galle, Bentota, Colombo and Ella.
Yoga and Meditation Retreats
Follow the instructions of the Yoga teacher as you stretch and pose to centre your mind and body. Try this rejuvenating technique at hotels in Hikkaduwa, Ella, Sigiriya and Arugam Bay all year long. With breathtaking scenery serving as your backdrop unwind both physically and spiritually.
