How to Plan a Trip in Sri Lanka - Tips on Organising the Ultimate Sri Lankan Vacation
Tipped to be among South Asia's most dynamic beach holiday hubs, Sri Lanka is a dream destination for most tourists hailing from other parts of the globe. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and impressive biodiversity, Sri Lanka offers travellers a wealth of experiences that are not just restricted to cultural tours and recreational activities. From timing the visit to engaging in meaningful activities, here are some tips on how to plan the perfect getaway in Sri Lanka.
1. Time the Holiday
As when planning a trip to any other destination, those who are visiting Sri Lanka for the first time must also time their getaway. Although the country is billed as a year-round vacation hotspot, there are certain months of the year when a holiday in Sri Lanka can be especially pleasant. The official tourist season, which lasts from December to April also boasts the best weather conditions with sunny conditions prevailing for months on end. This is the best time to head to Sri Lanka as all outdoor activities and water sports adventures are available and easily accessible. Avoid touring the island during the rainy months from May to October as the monsoon rains can be heavy and persistent. September, on the other hand, is a more neutral time of year suitable for budget travellers.
2. Narrow Down the Destinations
Depending on the duration of your holiday, it is crucial to hone in on the areas of the country you wish to explore during the trip. Unless you plan on spending a month or more in the country, it is impossible to squeeze in every major tourist hub in Sri Lanka so it is necessary to be discerning about our choices. Culturally inclined tourists may wish to focus their holiday on the Cultural Triangle while beach lovers can experience the south coast beach capitals as well as the more tranquil beaches in the northeast. Wildlife fanatics, in contrast, have more than 9 national parks and safari hubs to choose from.
3. Select Convenient Hotels
The next step in the planning process is making reservations at hotels based on the areas that you have included in your itinerary. In spite of its modern transportation services and well-maintained roads, getting around in Sri Lankan cities and tourist hotspots can be challenging and time-consuming. This is why staying at strategically situated rests is necessary for a seamless holiday experience. Whether you select Amagi Aria or any other hotels in Negombo for example, the venue should ideally be within close range of the best things to do in Negombo.
4. Create a Sightseeing Itinerary
There are certain attractions and points of interest that every travel itinerary to Sri Lanka must include as these make up the cultural and recreational highlights in the paradise isle. Some of these attractions include the iconic Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the Dambulla Cave Temple while the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Galle Fort are unmissable landmarks in Sri Lanka. Create a daily itinerary for each day of the trip so that you can keep tabs on how many key sights you have visited and ensure you don't miss out on some of the biggest points of interest on the island.
5. Sign up for Excursions
From whale-watching excursions in Mirissa to safari tours in Yala National Park, the excursions in Sri Lanka are some of the best in all of South Asia. Finding local tour operators for snorkelling and diving tours in the deep south or hiking tours in the Knuckles Mountain Range all require research, so make sure you book these Sri Lanka adventures prior to your departure.