Sri Lanka

“It may well be that each of Ceylon’s attractions is surpassed somewhere on Earth. Cambodia may have more impressive ruins, Tahiti live-lier beaches, Bali more beautiful landscapes, Thailand more charming people. But I find it hard to believe that there is any country which scores so highly in all departments.“
Arthur C. Clarke (1970)

Every kind of traveler can enjoy Sri Lanka. If you’re looking for a well-rounded destination, this is it. From the British-influenced tea haven of Nuwara Eliya to the stunning shores of Mirissa to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura–it’s got a little bit for everyone. But for us backpackers, it’s cheap as chips & the guesthouse owners are some of the kindest & most welcoming people you’ll meet.

If Sri Lanka can be encapsulated in one single moment, it’s sipping piping hot Ceylon tea while the heavy morning mist rises off the emerald green rolling fields. But it’s also beaches. Warm yellow sand and clean surfer breaks crashing into the shores. National parks packed with exotic wildlife. Leopards, Blue Whales, Elephants, Mongoose, & of course the massive green sea turtles. Who knew such a small island could contain so much diversity?

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Recommended Cities: Colombo, Anuradhapura, Jaffna, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Ella, Hiriketiya, Weligama, Unawatuna, Mirissa

Minimum Recommended Trip Length: 4 weeks.

One Bucketlist Item You Cannot Miss: Spotting the elusive leopards at Wilpattu National Park.

Things to Consider Before You Go: Public transport in Sri Lanka is cheap & efficient. Be sure to take advantage of the buses and trains. Sri Lanka gets two monsoon seasons. Be sure to pick the dry coast for good beaches.

Visa Requirements

$35 for Americans. Visa on Arrival.

Estimated Backpacker Budget

On a Shoestring: $25/day

Flashpacker: $35/day

Backpacker Luxury: $50/day

Keep in mind these are backpacker budgets. On a shoestring expect to be eating street food, sleeping in hostel beds, & skipping the more expensive tourist attractions. Backpacker Luxury opts for private rooms, eats mostly in restaurants, and splurges on activities. Flashpackers are the middle ground & often do a mixture of both.