8 Must-Visit Destinations for Backpackers in Sri Lanka
 |
| Kabaragala camping site |
Sri Lanka, an Indian Ocean Island, is well-known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and cost-effective vacation possibilities. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a couple on a backpacking adventure, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. From stunning beaches to ancient temples, here are 8 must-visit places for backpackers who want to experience the heart of Sri Lanka on a budget.
1. Colombo – The Bustling Capital
 |
| World trade center- Colombo |
How to Reach: Colombo is easily accessible from Bandaranaike
International Airport, just a 30-minute taxi or bus ride away. You can also
take a local train or bus from different parts of the country.
Food: Colombo offers delicious street food, including kottu
roti (chopped flatbread stir-fried with meat and vegetables) and hoppers (a
bowl-shaped pancake). You can also try Sri Lankan curries with rice.
Culture: Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square,
and the National Museum for a taste of Sri Lanka’s cultural history. Colombo is
also a great place to experience the energy of urban life and local traditions.
Stay: There are many budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses
in Colombo, particularly around the Fort and Pettah areas. Some even offer
rooftop views of the city.
Attractions: Take a walk along Galle Face Green, visit the colorful Pettah Market, or explore the Colombo Dutch Museum.
2. Kandy – The Sacred City
 |
| Sri Dalada Maligawa |
How to Reach: You can travel from Colombo to Kandy by train
or bus. The train ride takes you through breathtaking tea plantations and
hills. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can find train schedules on
the government's transportation website or other online resources.
Food: Kandy’s food scene is diverse, with street vendors
selling rice and curry, string hoppers, and sweet treats (oil cakes). Don’t
miss trying the fresh fruit juices available in the markets.
Culture: Kandy is also known for its annual Esala Perahera festival
(held in August), which features elephants, dancers, and drummers.
Stay: Kandy offers many affordable accommodations, from
hostels to small guesthouses. You can stay in the city center or opt for a more
peaceful spot on the outskirts.
Attractions: Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, take a stroll around Kandy Lake, or hike up to the Kandy Viewpoint for stunning views of the city.
3. Ella – Nature and Adventure
 |
| Nine arch bridge- Ella |
How to Reach: From Kandy, you can take a train to Ella. It's a lovely four-hour journey through misty highlands and tea plantations. Buses and taxis are also available.
 |
| Ravana falls- Ella |
Food: Ella has several small cafes where you can try rice
and curry or enjoy a cup of fresh Sri Lankan tea. The area also offers various
international food options for backpackers.
Culture: Ella is known for its connection to nature rather
than its culture. Explore the local villages, learn about tea production, and
enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Stay: Ella has several budget guesthouses and eco-lodges. Many
accommodations offer amazing views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
Attractions: Don’t miss the hike to Ella Rock for panoramic views or visit Ravana Falls. The Nine Arches Bridge is also a popular spot for photographs.
4. Mirissa – Beach Paradise
Mirissa, located on the southern coast, is a small but beautiful beach town. It’s perfect for backpackers looking to relax by the ocean or try water sports.
 |
| Coconut Tree Hill- Mirissa |
How to Reach: Mirissa is easily accessible by bus from
Colombo or Galle. The nearest train station is Weligama, just a short tuk-tuk
ride away.
Food: Mirissa offers fresh seafood, especially crab and
prawns. You can also try Sri Lankan specialties like rice and curry or a
tropical fruit salad.
Culture: Mirissa is known for its laid-back beach vibes, but
you can visit nearby Galle Fort to explore colonial history. The area is also
famous for whale watching from November to April.
Stay: Mirissa has many affordable beachfront hostels and
guesthouses, making it a popular destination for backpackers.
Attractions: Spend your days relaxing on the beach, whale watching, coconut tree hill or visiting the nearby Weligama Bay for a surfing lesson.
5. Galle – Colonial Charm
 |
| Galle Light House- Galle |
How to Reach: Galle is easily accessible by train or bus
from Colombo. The train journey along the coast offers scenic views of the
ocean.
Food: Galle’s food scene is diverse, with a mix of local Sri
Lankan dishes and international cuisine.
Culture: Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see.
You can wander through the cobbled streets, visit the Maritime Museum, or
admire the Dutch colonial architecture.
Stay: Galle offers a variety of budget accommodations
including hostels, guesthouses, and boutique hotels, especially within the Fort
area.
Attractions: Explore Galle Fort, visit the lighthouse, or relax on the nearby beaches. You can also take a boat tour around the coast.
6. Arugam Bay – Surfing and Relaxation
Arugam Bay, located on the east coast, is famous for its
laid-back vibe and excellent surfing conditions.
How to Reach: Arugam Bay is accessible by bus from Colombo,
which takes around 8 hours, or by taking a bus to the nearby town of Pottuvil
and then a tuk-tuk.
Food: You’ll find a variety of local and international food
options in Arugam Bay, including seafood, curries, and Western-style dishes for
travelers.
Culture: Arugam Bay is known for its laid-back atmosphere,
with surfers and beach lovers from around the world coming together to relax
and enjoy the waves.
Stay: There are plenty of budget-friendly hostels,
guesthouses, and beachfront hotels.
Attractions: Surfing is the main attraction, but you can also visit the nearby Kumana National Park or just relax on the beach.
7. Sigiriya – The Lion’s Rock
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history and nature lovers.
 |
| Sigiriya Rock |
How to Reach: You can take a bus or train from Colombo to
Dambulla, and then catch a tuk-tuk to Sigiriya. The journey takes around 4-5
hours.
Food: Sigiriya offers a range of local eateries where you
can enjoy Sri Lankan rice and curry or try local snacks like hoppers or kottu
roti.
Culture: The Sigiriya rock fortress dates back to the 5th
century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, frescoes, and water features.
It’s a UNESCO-listed site.
Stay: There are plenty of budget accommodations in Sigiriya,
including guesthouses and eco-lodges, many with views of the rock fortress.
Attractions: Climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and explore the ancient frescoes and ruins.
8. Jaffna – Northern Heritage and Hidden Gems
Jaffna, Sri Lanka's northernmost city, is famous for its culture, history, and Tamil traditions. It offers a different vibe compared to the rest of the country, with unique food, welcoming locals, and stunning landscapes. Backpackers who want to experience authentic Sri Lankan Tamil culture should definitely visit Jaffna.
 |
| Nallur Temple- Jaffna |
How to Reach: Jaffna is well-connected by train from
Colombo, with an affordable and scenic journey that takes about 7-8 hours. Buses
are another budget-friendly option, while those in a hurry can opt for domestic
flights to the Palaly Airport nearby.
Food: Jaffna is famous for its spicy Tamil cuisine. Don’t
miss dishes like Jaffna crab curry, kool (a seafood broth), and thosai.
Culture: The city is deeply rooted in Tamil traditions and
Hindu religion. Visit the iconic Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, a grand Hindu temple
known for its vibrant annual festival. The area is also dotted with ancient
forts, churches, and remnants of colonial history.
Stay: Jaffna offers plenty of affordable accommodation, from
guesthouses to budget hotels. Many are located close to the town center, making
it easy to explore the city on foot or by bicycle.
Attractions:
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple: An important cultural and
spiritual center.
Jaffna Fort: A well-preserved colonial-era fort overlooking
the lagoon.
Casuarina Beach: Known for its calm, shallow waters, perfect
for a relaxing day out.
Nainativu Island: Accessible by boat, this island is home to
the Nagapooshani Amman Temple, an important Hindu temple.
Keerimalai Springs: A natural freshwater spring with
cultural significance, located near the coast.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, making
it a perfect destination for backpackers seeking culture, nature, and adventure
on a budget. The island has something for everyone, from the vibrant city of
Colombo to the peaceful beaches of Mirissa. Historical landmarks like Sigiriya
and Galle Fort provide glimpses into Sri Lanka’s rich past, while natural
havens such as Ella and Arugam Bay cater to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure
seekers.
Cultural hotspots like Kandy and Jaffna reveal the depth of
Sri Lanka’s heritage, showcasing vibrant traditions, festivals, and cuisine.
The ease of transportation, with scenic train routes and affordable buses,
makes exploring the country accessible and enjoyable. Additionally, the variety
of budget-friendly accommodations ensures that backpackers can travel without
overspending while still enjoying comfortable stays.
Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality, flavorful cuisine, and
stunning landscapes leave an unforgettable impression on visitors. Whether
you're climbing the iconic Lion’s Rock, surfing at Arugam Bay, or wandering
through the tea-covered hills of Kandy, the island's charm is undeniable. For
those looking to immerse themselves in a unique blend of culture, adventure,
and relaxation, Sri Lanka is a backpacker’s dream destination.
