“When I was backpacking through Western Europe-“, sorry Joey, we’ve got a new hotspot for backpacking that will make everyone hang onto every word of your adventurous tales and that’s Sri Lanka. A new favorite among backpackers and travelers, this amazing paradise island is proof that all great things come in small packages. With idyllic beaches, lush greenery, mountains, wildlife, ancient kingdoms and bustling cities, Sri Lanka has something to offer for everyone. It’s such a small country that every destination is a bus or a train ride away from your last. Read on to discover our backpacker’s guide to this awesome country and plan your visit soon.
Colombo:
If you’re a tourist in Sri Lanka, this is the one place that you will not miss. The commercial capital of the country, Colombo is the heart and soul of the Sri Lankan city life. With skyscrapers, fancy 5-star hotels, fine dining restaurants on one hand, and small cafes, mouth-watering street food, and local markets on the other, it’s impossible not to fall in love with everything the city has to offer. It is crowded, loud, lively, vibrant and packs a lot of excitement no matter where you’re headed. A few places that you should definitely stop by at are the Gangarama Temple, Pettah market, Dutch Hospital Precinct, Galle Face Green and the Museum.
Kandy:
One of the corners of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, Kandy was a thriving ancient kingdom, that has not lost its quaint and regal charm to it, even centuries later. The moment you arrive in Kandy, you will feel that you have stepped into a different era in time. The city is a timeless remainder of the great Sri Lankan history, present and past. Visit the Temple of Tooth Relic, the Botanical Gardens, tea plantations, and do some café hopping to taste authentic Sri Lankan food. The chilly weather will make your long walks a breeze. Literally.
Galle Fort:
Entering the Galle Fort premises is like taking a walk in a cultural melting pot, as the marvelous wonder has hints of Portuguese, Dutch, British architecture, with local residents and multiple restaurants, cafes and bars that specialize in various international cuisines. A stroll among the vibrant streets of Galle Fort that are marked with architectural genius, immense historical value, picturesque settings, luxurious restaurants and souvenir shops, is a must do activity. Among the places you should definitely visit are the famous lighthouse, clock tower, Groote Kerk, Dutch Hospital Precinct and the museums.
Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa:
The other two corners of the cultural triangle are perhaps Sri Lanka’s greatest dynasties: Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Commonly known as Rajarata, these two cities often go hand-in-hand on travel itineraries. They are not directly related but were both Buddhist kingdoms and their beliefs and religious structures permeate through history. They are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and contain many dagobas, stupas, statues, and other ancient and religious marvels that will be the highlight of your backpacking trip. Although, they are approximately 7km away from each other, you could easily catch the bus to the second location and enjoy a couple of days wandering amongst the ruins and remnants of ancient Sri Lankan kingdoms.
Sigiriya:
Sigiriya, otherwise known as the Lion Rock of Sri Lanka is truly a sight that would take your breath away. The cave drawings, the ancient architecture, the wonder that is the rock fortress and the surrounding environment would escalate your experience to that of a lifetime. It is a bit of a climb, but the view at the top is worth it. The mirror wall, the water garden and the boulder gardens in Sigiriya are the oldest surviving landscapes in Asia, and surely be another highlight of your visit to Sri Lanka. You could also go on a night safari and take a stroll down to the surrounding villages to get a taste of the local culture. Given that Sigiriya is also situated inside the cultural triangle, your backpacking journey could also include a trip to the Dambulla Rock Caves and Pidurangala Mountain.
Ella:
Ella is one of the biggest backpacker hotspots because it is relaxed, inexpensive, has lots of hikes and trekking possibilities and the weather is refreshing, breezy and chilly. The train ride to Ella is where the biggest hype is at, since it is one of the most scenic routes you would ever see. With lush tea plantations all around, misty skies, and the famous Nine Arch Bridge, it looks too good to be true. It is also a fantastic spot for camping, if you want to feel one with the nature.
Photos sourced from SoFie, Amila Tennakoon, Pradeep Swaminathan , Sajith TS, Dennis Binzen and Weldon Kennedy
