Is Sri Lanka worth visiting? Highlights and travel tips

Sri Lanka, an island nation off the southern tip of India, has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. From its ancient ruins and rolling hills covered in emerald-green tea plantations to its palm-fringed beaches and diverse wildlife, this tropical paradise is alluring. But with so many stunning destinations in the world, you may be asking yourself: is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

That's exactly what we'll uncover in this article. We'll explore the diverse beauty of this enchanting island, how to travel there on a budget, cultural considerations and more, to help you determine if visiting Sri Lanka should be your next adventure.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Besides practical perks, like the fact that it’s an affordable country for travelers and that English is widely spoken, there are many other answers to the question “is Sri Lanka worth visiting?”. Sri Lanka offers a blend of cultural treasures and natural wonders that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

Here’s why the Worldpackers team believes that this little island deserves a spot on your travel bucket list:

Discover ancient history and vibrant culture

You can step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the ancient city ruins of Sigiriya, perched atop a dramatic rock fortress, to the sacred city of Anuradhapura with its ancient Buddhist temples and well-preserved ruins. Discover the remnants of ancient kingdoms and marvel at the intricate carvings and towering stupas.

Beyond the temples, Sri Lanka offers a chance to connect with locals and experience daily life. You’ll likely encounter colorful festivals celebrating age-old traditions.

Also, don’t miss the chance to dive into the bustling markets brimming with fragrant spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and the sights and sounds of daily life.

Embrace adventure in a natural paradise

Sri Lanka's landscapes are tailor-made for adventure. From trekking Adam’s Peak, a pilgrimage site offering panoramic views, to exploring the Knuckles Mountain Range, nature enthusiasts will find no shortage of scenic hikes and climbs.

And then there's the call of the wild. Sri Lanka is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and boasts an incredible diversity of species. You can embark on a safari in Udawalawe National Park, famed for its elephant population, and witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Another great choice is to venture into Yala National Park – renowned for its leopards.

Experience the journey as much as the destination

Sri Lanka’s scenic train journeys aren’t just a mode of transportation, they’re adventures in themselves. The journey from Kandy to Ella, for example, winds through tea-carpeted hills, past cascading waterfalls, and across the iconic Nine Arches Bridge.

If you can, opt for tickets in the air-conditioned saloon. While more expensive, it’s more comfortable, making the trip even more enjoyable.

The truly adventurous souls out there might also tackle a portion of your Sri Lankan journey by local bus. It’s a budget-friendly option that immerses you in the heart of local life.

Indulge your senses in a culinary journey

From fiery curries bursting with flavor to aromatic rice dishes cooked to perfection, Sri Lankan cuisine tantalizes taste buds. Coconut milk, fresh seafood, and exotic spices combine in dishes like kottu roti and string hoppers – local favorites you won't soon forget.

Be sure to try a traditional rice and curry meal – often featuring multiple vegetarian and meat dishes alongside chutneys, sambals (spicy condiments), and papadums. Looking for a snack? Don’t miss out on street food favorites like kottu roti, a savory stir-fry featuring chopped roti bread and a variety of toppings.

Unwind on pristine beaches

Sri Lanka boasts a coastline fringed with golden sand beaches perfect for soaking up the tropical sun. Head to the south coast for a more laid-back vibe and picture-perfect sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

Looking to escape the crowds? Consider Rekawa beach – a haven for those who crave quieter days. It’s also a prime spot to witness sea turtles nesting (from October to April) making for a truly magical experience.

10 best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Now that you know why Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination, let's briefly list some of the best places that make this island nation so captivating. We won’t go into each of them in detail because this article would get extremely long, but a Google search of any of them is sure to impress.

From bustling cities and ancient ruins to serene beaches and lush national parks, here are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, each offering a unique experience:

1. Colombo: the cultural melting pot of Sri Lanka

2. Sigiriya: a treasure for history buffs and art lovers

3. Polonnaruwa: discover ancient archaeological marvels

4. Jaffna: explore Tamil cultural richness

5. Trincomalee: a unique beach getaway

6. Dambulla: a small and quiet town with historical sites nearby

7. Kandy: discover the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country

8. Minneriya National Park: witness wild Asian elephants

9. Kalpitiya: a prime surfing destination

10. Anuradhapura: immerse yourself in Buddhist heritage

Essential Sri Lanka travel tips

Are you convinced that Sri Lanka is indeed worth visiting? Check out some practical information to help you start planning your trip:

Respecting Sri Lankan customs

Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, so it's essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees.

When entering temples, remove your shoes and hat. Avoid using your left hand for eating, as it’s considered unclean. When offered food or drink, accept it with your right hand to show respect.

Visas for Sri Lanka

The country has recently transitioned from the ETA system to the new eVisa scheme. All visitors must complete an eVisa application prior to their arrival in the country. You can apply online through their official eVisa website.

Transportation

Sri Lanka offers diverse modes of transport, including tuk-tuks, buses, trains, and even domestic flights. As we mentioned, traveling by train allows you to witness stunning scenery and is one of the main reasons to visit Sri Lanka.

Consider taking the train journey from Kandy to Ella, often lauded as one of the most beautiful in the world. Be sure to book train journeys far in advance (you can book starting 30 days in advance through the Sri Lankan railway’s website).

Typical travel costs

One of the best things about this beautiful country is that you don't have to be wealthy to visit it – once you are in Sri Lanka it's quite affordable to travel around. Transport options like trains and local buses are budget friendly. Food costs vary depending on where you dine, with local eateries serving delicious, affordable fare, especially street food.

You can also find plenty of affordable guesthouses, and smaller boutique hotels. On average, you can expect to spend around $25-$50 per day as a budget traveler. It really all depends on how fancy you want to make it.

Volunteering in Sri Lanka

For a very cheap and super fun experience in Sri Lanka, consider volunteering in exchange for free accommodation through Worldpackers.

This global platform connects travelers with hosts around the world offering volunteer opportunities. In few words, it enables travelers to exchange their skills for a place to stay and other perks, like meals and tours, making travel more affordable and meaningful.

Whether you're looking to teach English, help with environmental conservation, or make friends from all over the world while volunteering in a hostel, there’s a wide range of projects to suit your interests and skills.

This experience allows you to immerse yourself in Sri Lankan traditions, customs, and daily life by living and working alongside locals and/or other travelers, depending on the opportunity you choose. One thing is certain: the cultural immersion you gain is unparalleled.

Moreover, your contributions as a volunteer can make a significant impact on local communities. Knowing that your efforts have a tangible effect adds a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose to your travels.

The personal growth you experience while volunteering abroad is another rewarding aspect. Stepping out of your comfort zone, developing new skills, and gaining valuable life experiences can make you more adaptable and resilient.

Finally, the cost-saving aspect means you can extend your stay and explore more of Sri Lanka without worrying about a hefty travel budget.

However, you should know that some non-profit projects might ask for a small fee to cover your basic expenses and help the organization keep running. In this case, it will be clearly stated in the position’s description on the website.

How Worldpackers works:

1. Sign up and create a profile: Begin by creating a profile on the Worldpackers website or app. Highlight your skills, interests, and travel preferences.
2. Browse opportunities: Explore a variety of volunteer opportunities available worldwide. Filter by destination, type of work, duration etc. to find the perfect fit for your travel plans.
3. Apply and communicate with hosts: Once you find an appealing opportunity (or several ones!), apply and communicate directly with hosts to discuss expectations, schedules, and other details.
4. Confirm your stay: Upon acceptance, confirm your stay and prepare for your volunteer experience. Worldpackers provides support and plenty of information to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

There are dozens of opportunities for volunteering in Sri Lanka with Worldpackers. Check out a few examples:

Kandy Grammar International School

This is a wonderful chance for people who are enthusiastic about digital media to make a difference in a local community in Kandy, Sri Lanka. This international school is looking for volunteers who can make videos and update their social media channels, but also help with painting or decorating, administrative tasks, and other types of school help.

“I don't think I can thank Nisansala, Malik and Melina enough for the wonderful stay I had at KGIS. The work itself was super fun, the kids are the cutest and it was easy enough to communicate with them since they are learning English. But the rest of the day... it's when I laughed the most. I felt like at home, with people who welcome you with all their hearts. I learned to cook traditional dishes, they showed me around Kandy, they always help you if want to go somewhere else on your free days... It was the best first volunteering experience and I would 100% recommend it to anyone”, said Paula, a former Worldpackers volunteer from Spain, on her review about this host.

Click here to find out more about this position. 

Help out at a hostel and have fun in Colombo

This role at a hostel in Colombo typically involves a combination of guest interaction, assisting with various tasks, and creating a friendly and welcoming environment for travelers. This would include helping with check ins, informing guests what to do in the area and in Colombo, providing information and recommendations, and hosting social events.

“I truly cannot describe the kindness and generosity of Dinesh and the team. Working hours are very clear and respected (though it's hard to count it as work when you're having so much fun). I loved my experience here and it will be very hard to leave my new Sri Lankan family. Thank you for everything Dinesh, Dushy, Rodney and Thamil. See you soon x”, said Bianca, from Italy.

Click here for more information on this volunteering opportunity. 

Teach English to local kids and adults in Ahangama

If you have experience teaching basic English, this is a great position for you to make a difference and have fun. The host, which is a hostel, requires 12 hours of help per week teaching kids and adults from the local community. In exchange, you'll get 3 days off perk week, free accommodation, use of their equipped kitchen, internet access, discounts on tours, parties and restaurantes, and more.

"Loved my time at yoyos🥰 Gee is the best and funniest host you could imagine and he made this place feel like home to me! Loved the whole Team and the good vibes in the hostel, met sooo many cool people ☺️ and even tho I'm done with volunteering I'm still going to stick around in the hostel for this month, so I think that tells you everything ;) Proud and happy to be part of the hostel's Fam🫶 can highly recommend it!!!", said Laura, from Germany.

Find out more about this opportunity and apply. 

FAQs about “is Sri Lanka worth visiting?”

Is it worth to go to Sri Lanka?

Absolutely. It offers something for everyone - breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, affordable prices, and friendly people.

How many days do I need to visit Sri Lanka?

To make the most of your trip, plan for at least 7 to 10 days in Sri Lanka. This allows enough time to hit a few highlights without feeling rushed. Of course, with two weeks, you could explore even more. 

If you're short on time, even a 5-day trip focused on one region can still provide a taste of the country’s magic. If you have more time, consider volunteering with Worldpackers and immersing yourself in Sri Lankan culture like a local.

Is Sri Lanka safe?

While Sri Lanka has faced periods of political unrest and civil conflict in the past, the country is considered relatively safe for tourists today. Like in any destination, it's essential to exercise common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and stay informed about local news and any safety guidelines issued by authorities.

The Sri Lankan government takes tourism seriously, and there's a strong focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors. However, before you go, check your own government’s travel advice, and look out for safety advice for your specific destination.

Which is better, Sri Lanka or Thailand?

Both offer stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences, making it hard to pick a clear winner. Ultimately it comes down to preference. Thailand is a more established tourist destination known for its vibrant nightlife. Sri Lanka's charm lies in its quieter atmosphere, diverse landscapes, rich history and ancient sites.

So, is Sri Lanka worth visiting? We hope this article helped you realize why Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable journey. Especially if you choose to explore it by volunteering, which makes this an even more transformative experience – and super low budget.

Feeling ready? Create your free profile on Worlpackers right now and start saving your favorite opportunities in Sri Lanka and all around the world!