Sri Lanka: An Island of Wonders

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean located south of India, is a breathtaking and fascinating destination. It is the 25th largest island in the world and is home to approximately 23 million people. The name Sri Lanka means "sacred island," and due to its teardrop shape, it is often referred to as "the tear of India."

This was my second trip to the country, which is an incredible combination of stunning nature and magnificent beaches that attract surfers from all over the world. Sri Lanka offers unparalleled diversity – whether you are a nature enthusiast looking for hiking trails or seeking a relaxing beach vacation, you can find both in Sri Lanka and enjoy them all year round.

During the two weeks we traveled in Sri Lanka with a two-year-old toddler, I found myself repeatedly amazed by everything this country has to offer. Each experience was refreshingly unique and reminded me why Sri Lanka is such a beloved and captivating destination.

All about Sri Lanka

Best Travel Season

The best season to travel in Sri Lanka depends on the region you plan to visit, as there are two main monsoons that influence the island’s weather.

The country can be divided into three main areas: the southwest coast, the east coast, and the central region. The dry season on the southwest coast is from December to April, while on the east coast, it is from May to September.

For the central region, the recommended travel season is from November to April, as the weather is relatively pleasant for trekking and exploring the mountainous areas.

We traveled to central Sri Lanka and the southwest coast in April and were fortunate to experience sunny weather with almost no rain.

Getting There

All flights land at Sri Lanka's international airport near Colombo. Travelers from around the world can reach Sri Lanka via various international airlines, with connections through major hubs such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Many airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and SriLankan Airlines, offer convenient routes with layovers depending on your departure location - our itinerary.

Transportation

Although public transportation is available in Sri Lanka, it is not very developed. Unlike India, there are hardly any active tourist routes, and the long travel distances often require complex journeys with multiple stops.

The most common and recommended way to get around Sri Lanka is by hiring a private or driver. Various traveler groups offer countless recommendations for English-speaking local drivers, many of whom are also certified tour guides. They provide services for a daily fee, making the trip much more comfortable and enjoyable.

We traveled with Chatthura (+94773186147), who accompanied us during the first week of the trip, from our pickup in Negombo—where we spent the first night after landing—to the beaches. Throughout the week, he drove us according to our planned itinerary, which we had also discussed with him before arriving. He arranged day trips, safaris, and other activities we were interested in. Additionally, many drivers have partnerships with certain hotels across the country and can help secure accommodations at discounted rates if desired.

Hiring a private driver not only makes the trip smooth and stress-free but also allows you to focus on enjoying Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes and unique sites without worrying about logistics or navigation.

General Tips

Currency

Sri Lanka's currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). As of today, one Israeli Shekel is equivalent to approximately 80 Sri Lankan Rupees. It is recommended to carry cash when traveling to rural and remote areas, though major towns usually accept credit cards.

Food

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its particularly spicy flavors. Even when we requested “mildly spicy,” we still received dishes that set our taste buds on fire. In the central region, you will primarily find various types of curry dishes, while in the south, there is a wider variety of fish and seafood. Although the flavors are not highly diverse, they are definitely intriguing for spice lovers.

Safety

In general, we felt very safe traveling in Sri Lanka and never feared for our personal security. However, it is important to note that locals and tourists do not experience the same reality. Conversations with locals revealed concerns about street safety. For example, it is uncommon for a young woman to travel alone on public transport without being accompanied by a parent or partner due to crime concerns. While the overall sense of security is reassuring, it is always wise to stay alert and take necessary precautions.

Medical Services

Sri Lanka is a developing country, and medical services are not always easily accessible. During our trip, we required medical attention and used our travel insurance to arrange for a private doctor to visit our hotel with all necessary medications, including prescription drugs. However, for more serious medical treatment, one would likely need to travel to Colombo. The advantage is that Sri Lanka is a relatively small country, making it feasible to reach the capital from almost any location.

Two-Week Itinerary

Our trip was divided into two parts: the first week was dedicated to exploring the central region, while the second week focused on the southwest beaches. This itinerary provided the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, aligning with our travel preferences.

Since we arrived in the late evening, we chose to spend our first night at a hotel near the airport in Negombo, the closest city to Sri Lanka’s international airport. We stayed at Belmont Boutique Hotel, a small, clean, and inviting boutique hotel with newly renovated rooms, located just a 30-minute drive from the airport. The hotel offers a 24-hour free airport shuttle service, making it an excellent choice for a smooth arrival in the country.

During our first week, we explored central Sri Lanka, starting with Sigiriya, where we stayed for two days. From there, we continued to Nuwara Eliya for one night and then to Ella, where we spent our final two nights in the region.

From Ella, we traveled south to the southwest coastal region, where we spent the second week relaxing in two locations: Tangalle and Galle.

Sri Lanka offers a spectacular mix of nature, beaches, and cultural experiences. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a family-friendly trip, this island has something for everyone. Our journey through Sri Lanka with a toddler was an unforgettable experience, and I can’t wait to return again!