explore Sri Lanka
THE PEARL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN...Sri Lanka is one of those places that seems to have it all, yet still feels like a bit of a hidden gem. This tear-drop-shaped island, just off the southern tip of India, is an incredible mix of culture, nature, and history that makes it such an electrifying destination. But at the same time, the idyllic getaway to rest, unplug and pretend you’ve traveled back in time.
the Quick Facts✷Where: Just south of India.
✷Language: Sinhala & Tamil
✷Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
✷Religion: Hinduism & Budhism
✷Population: 21,949,268
Emilia’s Favorite Experiences
01. Explore the island by Tuk-Tuk:
Exploring the island by tuk-tuk was one of my favorite parts of my trip to Sri Lanka it’s truly the best way to see the island and local life closely.
You can’t go to “Spice Island” and not do a cooking class. And there’s no better souvenir than coming home with new skills.
03. Take the Train from Kandy to Ella
There’s a reason why they call it one of the most beautiful scenic train rides in the world. This train ride is long, but 100% worth it!
04. See Elephants at Minneriya / Kaudulla National Park
Just a short ride away from Polonnaruwa, Minneriya is most famous for the annual "Elephant Gathering," which takes place between July and October.
05. See the Kandy Esala Perahera Festival
A grand annual festival known for its vibrant and majestic procession featuring elaborately decorated elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and fire performers.
My Top Advice for Sri Lanka
the Sri Lanka Bucket List
✷Ride the Kandy to Ella Train
✷See Elephants at Minneriya National Park
✷Do a Cooking Class
✷ Have an Ayurvedic Massage
✷ Climb Little Adam’s Peak
✷Visit the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
✷ See the sunset from Pirudangala Rock
✷ Visit the Ambullawawa Tower
✷ Go on a Street Food Tour in Colombo
Emilia’s Favorite Hotels
✷PALM Hotel, Ahangama
✷Trebartha East Hotel, Ahangama
✷Kurulu Bay, Ahangama
✷ Ariya Rest & Spa, Polonnaruwa
✷ Cascade Vally, Ella
✷ Barn Hills, Ella
✷ Fort Galle, Galle
Food to Try…
✷Kottu Roti: A flavorful stir-fried mix of chopped flatbread, vegetables, egg, and/or meat, with a symphony of spices.
✷Sri Lankan Crab Curry: A luscious and fiery curry made with fresh crab, coconut milk, and a robust blend of spices.
✷Hoppers (Appa): Bowl-shaped, crispy pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk, often served with a soft egg in the center or spicy sambal.
✷Pol Sambol: A zesty coconut relish made with grated coconut, chili, lime, and onion, perfect with rice or flatbreads.
Pro Tips for Sri Lanka
✷Plan your trip around the monsoon seasons!
✷There is more than one airport, so make sure which one you’re flying into!
✷Get your visa in advance here.
✷ 90% of the food will be spicy. The more local you go, the spicier it will be.
✷ Sri Lanka uses Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) and you’ll need cash!
✷ Sri Lanka is full of temples, so make sure you dress modestly to visit them.
