• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • INDIA
  • Thailand
  • Bali
  • Maldives
  • Sri Lanka
  • Malaysia
  • Youtube Channel
  • About
  • Contact Us

World Ghoomo

World Travel Destinations

Travel Guide

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka – Everything You Need to Know

April 13, 2020 by sarita

Sigiriya, located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla, in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is one of the top tourist spots in the country. The beautiful landscape and countryside vibes of the region has a lot more to offer than the well-known Sigiriya Rock.

Sigiriya Travel GuideSigiriya Travel Guide

Sigiriya Highlights

 Sigiriya, is popular for its:

  • UNESCO World heritage sites
  • Elephant Safari

  • Elephant Rides
  • Rock Climbing &
  • Panoramic views of the surrounding hills

Sigiriya Neighbouring Areas:

  • Habarana Village
  • Dambulla

  • Minneriya
  • Polonnaruwa
  • Anuradhapura & a few more..

Accommodations in Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a great place to stay, with a plethora of options ranging from lavish hotels to cottages in the forest area, you can take up an accommodation as per your convenience. There are jungle hideaways that will give a forest life feel and experience where you will find yourself to be a part of it. Rural accommodations are also there which will take you to the local culture of this place. Furthermore if you can also avail the services of luxurious resorts and villas.

How to Get Around Sigiriya 

The most appropriate way to move around in Sigiriya is by bikes or scooters, which are easily available at a low price. The average hire cost of the bike lies between LKR 300 – 1500. Tuk-tuk is also available on hire, which you can use to explore the off-beat places. You can also book a rented taxi.

Sigiriya – Top Things to Do and Sights

Sigiriya is the ideal base for exploring the neighbouring cities, the various temples and national parks. Here is a list of things one can do around Sigiriya.

1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock FortressSigiriya Rock Fortress

This is one of the iconic destinations of Sri Lanka. The extremely famous ancient rock fortress is considered as the UNESCO World Heritage site. The rock plateau is formed from magma of an extinct volcano and is popularly known as the Eighth Wonder of the World by the locals. It is undoubtedly one of the most visited tourist spots in Sri Lanka.”

2. Sigiriya Museum

The Sigiriya Archeological Museum is in the same building as the Sigiriya Rock ticket office, and it is included in your entrance ticket. With little detour from the rock, you can add this museum to the list. It gives amazing details about the historical and geographical importance of this place. It is a good idea to visit the museum first and then the fortress as you will be filled with knowledge and information before you visit the site. 

3. Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala RockPidurangala Rock

Just opposite to the Sigiriya fortress, a few kms away is the Pidurangala Rock –  popular hiking tourist attraction of Sigiriya. If you are into hiking or rock-climbing you must not miss climbing this rock. Besides a thrilling experience you will be rewarded with the best views of the Sigiriya fortress from the peak.

4. Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave TempleDambulla Cave Temple

A UNESCO world heritage situated in the heart of Sri Lanka is a must-visit cave temple. It is considered to be one of the oldest, dates back to 1st century BCE, and the largest preserved cave temple of Sri Lanka, having five sanctuaries. It is famous for its 157 statues and Buddhist mural painting. The temple represents a paramount shrine in the Buddhist religion, practiced in Sri Lanka. To reach the temple one has to go to a 160-meter-high hill, and make sure one gets his ticket before going as the ticket counter is at the bottom. It is not easy to reach the temple as the hard climbing, and the monkeys on the way are not easy to tackle. The caves are open for almost 12 hours, starting from 7 AM in the morning.

5. Habarana Village Tour & Elephant Ride

Habarana Village Elephant SafariHabarana Village Elephant Ride

Habarana is located 210 km northeast from Colombo and just 17.7 km from Sigiriya. It has an amazing elephant safari experience that will surely make your trip a memorable one. The total safari is 4 hours, and it starts around 10 AM. This ride includes a journey through the pathways, villages, jungles, swamp, and river. Post this you can also enjoy the local village life and culture. After this you can hop on the boat and reach the river bank from there you can get transferred to the village house by a jeep for a delicious local village lunch. Your activity will end at 2 PM, and you will undoubtedly take a lot of memories home after the trip. 

6. Minneriya Safari

Minneriya SafariMinneriya Safari

Minneriya is a small area located in Sri Lanka. It is popular for its lake and national park. Minneriya national park is known for its large number and a wide variety of elephants. The other attraction of this park is its safari. It is a jeep safari, which gives a wonderful experience to be in the middle of wild animals with great freedom. May to October is considered the best time period to visit and enjoy the safari as many wild elephant herds gather. Safari starts at 6 AM in the morning, and the last one is at 3 in the afternoon. It takes you through the park to get you to enjoy and experience nature like never before. Many local companies like “Minneriya safari tours,” “Minneriya Jeep Safari,” provide safari service along with pick-up and drop service.

7. The Rice Terraces

Sigiriya is a beautiful location not only to experience a picturesque view of the rock but also the countryside. You can explore the place by bicycle, and it would take half a day to enjoy it here. If not bicycles the local transport is also available. The rice terraces and lakes in the countryside can make your morning sights a memorable one. Try not to ride in the dark as elephants roam in the area. 

8. The Ancient City Of Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was the capital city hundreds of years ago, and it consists of few historical ruins. Currently, there are no residents to this place, but it has temples and carvings all around. It is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Sigiriya that should not be missed. From Sigiriya, it’s about one hour’s drive, and a driver can be hired for a day. 

Days Required to Explore Sigiriya:

Minimum 3 Days

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka is one of the most enthralling destinations to visit in the country. Regardless of whether you are visiting with your family, partner or friends, this place is the perfect pick for you. Get your bags packing and book your trip to Sigiriya today!

 

Filed Under: Sri Lanka Tagged With: Sri Lanka, Travel Guide, World Heritage

Sri Lanka Travel Guide | Everything you Need to Know Before Traveling

April 19, 2019 by sarita

Welcome to Sri Lanka Travel Guide Part 1. Here, we are gonna share with you some very important information about Sri Lanka that you must know before traveling to this island nation.

 

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

 

Sri Lanka is one of the few places in the world that offers a stunning combination of countless pristine beaches, alluring landscapes, captivating cultural heritage and numerous national parks within such a compact location. No wonder, it is one of the top tourist destinations amongst travellers from all around.

 

WATCH THE VIDEO

 

 

 

Sri Lanka Facts

 

Location – Sri Lanka lies on the Indian tectonic Plate in South Asia. It is separated from the mainland portion of the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait.

 

Prehistory – Sri Lanka has a history dating back even as far back as 500,000 years. One of the first written references to the island is found in the Indian epic Ramayan which provides details of a kingdom named Lanka that was created by the divine sculptor Vishwakarma for the Gods.  Lord Kuber seized control of Lanka and was later overthrown by his demon stepbrother Ravan. According to ancient Indian Sanskrit epic Ramayan written by Valmiki, a land bridge “Ram Setu” existed between the Indian mainland and Sri Lanka. Ramayan’s “Lanka Kand” has detailed description about The bridge constructed by Shri Ram’s Vanar sena that allowed the army to reach Lanka and rescue Shri Ram’s wife Mata Sita from the demon king, Ravan.Satellite images show The bridge. It starts as a chain of shoals from the Dhanushkodi tip of India’s Pamban Island and ends at Sri Lanka’s Mannar Island. 

 

Religion – Buddhists –  70 percent , Hindu – Second most prevalent religion
Islam – Third most dominant religion in the country.

 

Languages 
Sinhalese and Tamil – Official languagesEnglish
Economy
Tourism, clothing and tea export.
Climate in Sri Lanka
Tropical & warmCoastal and lowland areas –  26 – 32 degrees celsiusAt elevations – 18 -22 degrees celsius.
The Best Time to Visit  Sri Lanka April – September

 

Pre-Planning Sri Lanka Vacation

 

  1. Understanding Sri Lankan Terrains & Regions
  2. Planning an itinerary as per the number of days
  3. Booking Flights
  4. Booking Hotels & arranging
  5. Visa

 

Sri Lanka Top places to visit (Region Wise)

 

Colombo – gateway & stopover point 
Negombo (coastal town) – most prefered stopover point 

 

Sri Lanka Historical Sites

 

Sigiriya – is famous for the astonishing Sigiriya Fortress
Dambulla – is known for it’s Dambulla Cave Temple
Habarana Village – for Elephant safaris and village tours
Ancient Polonnaruwa – is Popular for Archeological sites and ruins
Kandy – is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic 
Anuradhapura  – is popular for archaeological and architectural wonders
Matale  – is known for its heritage centre, temples and spice gardens

 

Sri Lanka Beaches

 

(along the Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern coasts of)
Jaffna, Negombo, Bentota, Arugam Bay, Nilaveli & many more … are popular for surfing and vibrant nightlife.

 

Sri Lanka Whale Watching Triangle: Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee.

 

Sri Lanka Countryside Hills & Tea Gardens

 

  1. Ella
  2. Nuwara Eliya &
  3. Bandarawela 

 

These regions are popular for their scenic train rides, picturesque views, tea gardens and cool climate.

 

Sri Lanka National Parks

 

Sri Lanka has around 30 national parks which is a big number for a small country.   

 

The most visited national parks in Sri Lanka 

 

  1. Yala National Park
  2. Udawalawe  National Park
  3. Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks
  4. Horton Plains National Park &
  5. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

 

These wildlife sanctuaries are home to Leopards, elephants, a high diversity of mammals and birds.

 

Sri Lanka Bird Sanctuaries

 

  1. Bundala National Park 
  2. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
  3. Anawilundawa Sanctuary

 

Sri Lanka Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Programme  

 

Sea Turtle Hatcheries – in Bentota –The hatcheries aim to protect rescued sea turtles. 

 

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – in Pinnawala town, near Kandy  
Aims to protect the many orphaned unweaned wild elephants found wandering in and near the forests of Sri Lanka. 

 

Biggest Cities in Sri Lanka 

 

  1. Colombo
  2. Kandy & 
  3. Galle

 

Days Required to Explore Sri Lanka

 

With so much to see and explore, one will need at least 1 month to fully explore Sri Lanka. However, one can get a glimpse of Sri Lanka and cover the major attractions within 2 weeks time.
Booking Flights – 2 months ahead
Booking Hotels – 2 months ahead Arranging Visa – Sri Lanka visa-on-arrival is available. One can also apply online. This process is called ETA, electronic travel authorisation. Visa Fee – For citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Pakistan the fee is 15 USD.For everyone else it is 30 USD. Children below the age of 12 don’t have to pay a fee.
(The price may change with time)

 

Sri Lanka Currency 

 

Sri Lankan Rupee – LKR. You can easily withdraw money from the ATM’s in Sri Lanka. It will be good to carry some USD currency before landing.

 

Getting Around Sri Lanka

 

Best way to see Sri Lanka is Independent travel.
Tuk Tuk’s – (3 wheel bikes) are easy available and the drivers can take you to any location easily. They can however, be more expensive than buses. Buses – are the second option but can be time consuming. Trains – You can board a train to travel from one city to the other. Train rides can be a lot of fun. But, again they can be a bit time consuming. Renting Bikes – If you plan to stay for longer duration, renting a bike can be a good option. The bikes are easily available on almost every street.  
A Rented car with Hired driver – can be the best option to travel safe and fast. (within a city & from one to another)
You can book the cabs through your hotels, via travel agents or by booking on the spot once you reach Sri Lanka. It would be best to book everything in advance to avoid an last minute hassle.
Important – We recommend collecting all the entry tickets including the safari tickets on your own and do not rely on the drivers to get them for you. Drivers are most likely to keep 30% as their commission. 

 

Sri Lankan Food

 

 Sri Lankan cuisine is a blend of South Indian and Indonesian cuisines with a tinge of Dutch flavours in it.    

 

A typical Sri Lankan breakfast – includes string hoppers, fresh coconut, sambol and dal. Most popular Sri Lankan Cuisine – Rice-curry along with a variety of rotis, seafood and other dishes.

 

Restaurants in Sri Lanka

 

Themed restaurants, open kitchen and hippie eateries in every city.For Vegetarians – Limited food options. Go to Indian Restaurants for vegetarian food .

 

Sri Lanka Nightlife

 

Sri Lanka nightlife is most liveliest in the beaches of Negombo, Bentota, Marissa and other coastal towns. It’s all about partying, dancing and indulging into some delicious seafood.

 

Shopping in Sri Lanka

 

From intricate handicrafts to vibrant clothes and decorative home interiors, Indulge into some best shopping experiences in Sri Lanka. Numerous shops along the lanes of the famous beaches & tourist attractions sell a variety of items that you can pick as souvenirs.Remember to Always carry some cash since cards may not be accepted at many shops. Check your country’s customs and import regulations before making any purchase.

 

How Much Sri Lanka Costs ?  

 

Sri Lanka is a slightly expensive country compared to Bali and Thailand in Asia. Your main expenditure will be towards :

 

  1. Accommodations 
  2. Transportation
  3. Entry Tickets and 
  4. Food and Beverages.  (we are not including the flight tickets here)

 

A typical Sri Lanka Vacation for 8 days can cost anywhere between USD 3000 – 4000 – If you are opting for 4 star luxury hotels.
There is no limit on how much you can save when you opt for budget and hostel accommodations.
Food & Beverages  – will add extra to your budget. 
A Rented Car with hired driver – search online for charges from different agencies. Again, you can save a lot if you opt for rented bikes, trains, tuk-tuk’s and buses (they an be more time consuming)
Entry Tickets – this is something you can’t avoid. The entry tickets to some of the most popular attractions is very high. Find below the price list of some of the attractions:
Sigiriya Fortress – USD 40 per person Pidurangala – LKR 500 Minneriya National Park – LKR 4000 per person + LKR 5000 for safari vehicle with driver
Yala National Park – LKR 4000 per person + LKR 5500 for safari vehicle with driver Bundala Bird Sanctuary – almost same as Yala.

 

Things to keep in Mind 

 

  1. Buddhist Temples Dress Code – Cover your thighs and shoulders before entering any Buddhist temples. Also remove sunglasses and caps. Never pose for a photograph with you back towards Buddha Statues. If you have any Buddha Tattoos, make sure to cover them.
  2. Get a Local Sim – Easily available in Colombo.
  3. Always carry some cash 
  4. Always drink packaged water
  5. Google Maps work in Sri Lanka
  6. Carry international power adaptors 
  7. Cover you head with a cap or bandana and apply sunscreen during sightseeing.
  8. Purchase all the entry tickets on your own
  9. Carry light – weight, breezy clothes and sunglasses
  10. Do your own research about the place before visiting

Filed Under: Travel Guide Tagged With: Sri Lanka, Travel Guide

Primary Sidebar

Bali Travel

Bali Reptile Park Guide

Bali Reptile Park Guide | What Not To Miss

Ubud Monkey Forest Bali

Ubud Monkey Forest Attractions | Bali Wildlife Experience

Tibumana Waterfall Bali

Bali Waterfalls – “Tibumana Waterfall” the Best Waterfall in Bali

Bali Waterfalls Nungnung waterfall

Nungnung Waterfall in Bali | Bali Attractions

Banyumala Twin Waterfall Bali

Banyumala Waterfall in Bali | Bali Attractions

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces Bali Unesco

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in BALI | Bali Attractions | Things to Do

Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park Guide | Everything You Need to Know

Bali Travel Guide - For First Timers Traveling to Bali

Bali Travel Guide – For First Timers Traveling to Bali

Bali Itinerary 10 days

Bali Travel Guide – 10 Days Bali Travel Itinerary | Bali Maps

More Bali Travel Posts

Thailand Travel

7 Islands Sunset Cruise Krabi

7 Islands Sunset Cruise | Krabi Guide

Located on Thailand’s southern west coast, Krabi is home to more than a hundred offshore islands. One can visit the […]

Hong Islands Tour Guide - world ghoomo

Hong Islands Tour Guide | Hong Island – Lading – Phak Bia | Thailand

  Krabi is a popular and most preferred starting point for the various island hopping tours in Thailand. The alluring […]

Khao Sok National Park Travel Guide Thailand

Khao Sok National Park TRAVEL GUIDE

Apart from the stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and breathtaking landscapes, Thailand is also popular for it’s alluring tropical rainforests. There […]

Krabi 4 Islands Tour

4 Islands Tour OR 7 Islands Sunset Cruise ? Krabi Guide

With some of the worlds most alluring islands – Krabi, Thailand is famous for its island hopping tours. Out of […]

Krabi Travel

Thailand – Places to Visit

Thailand Travel Guide | Tips & Information   Khao Sok National Park     KrabiTravel Guide     PhuketTravel Guide

More Thailand Travel posts

Footer

Site Information

  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2021 World Ghoomo