Dream vacation in Sri Lanka: how to get there, prices, best resorts

Sri Lanka is a stunning island in the Indian Ocean, known for its unusual culture, majestic temples, spectacular nature and sandy beaches. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy, this country will be an ideal option.

Entry requirements

Ukrainians with a biometric or regular passport can apply for a 30-day visa upon arrival on the island. To do this, you must first obtain an online permit. If you decide to stay in Sri Lanka for a longer period, you will have an additional 6 months at your disposal.

What you should definitely have with you

• Ukrainian passport (biometric or regular);
• a copy of the first page of the passport;
• a return ticket or a ticket to another country;
• accommodation reservation in Sri Lanka;
• medical insurance.

The best way to get to Sri Lanka is obviously by plane. Bandaranaike International Airport, located near Colombo, is the main air gateway of the country and receives flights from all over the world. You should be prepared for a flight of 8 to 15 hours.

Weather and best time to visit

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two monsoon seasons. From December to March, the island has a high tourist season, when the weather is favorable for a beach vacation. The temperature usually ranges from 27°C to 32°C, and there is practically no precipitation. From July to September, it rains here, but they take place in the form of short-term showers. This period may be less popular among tourists.

Tourist destinations

Here are some of the main resort cities worth visiting during your trip to Sri Lanka.

• Colombo

The capital of Sri Lanka. Here you can enjoy modern skyscrapers, visit shopping centers, museums and cultural heritage sites. It is also worth visiting the Galle Pier, which offers a magnificent view of the ocean.

• Negombo

This popular resort town is located next to Bandaranaike Airport and 40 kilometers from Colombo. You will find large beaches, luxury hotels and popular attractions. A few centuries ago, Negombo was known for the wild cinnamon that grew everywhere. It was rightfully considered one of the best in the world. Many merchants anchored in the harbor to buy this spice. Nowadays, the resort mostly attracts tourists who want to walk along its long sandy beaches. There is also a nationally known fish market here.

• Kandy

It is the second largest city after Colombo. It is home to the Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple (or Buddha's Tooth Temple), which is considered a shrine for Buddhists. Many buildings stand on the slopes of the cliffs, which gives the local architecture a special charm. In the middle of the slopes you can see the water surface of a man-made lake. It appeared during the last king of Sri Lanka. This is a great place for those looking for harmony and tranquility.

• Galle

Galle is a port city in the west of Sri Lanka and an architectural monument from the colonization period. Here you will find a well-preserved Dutch fort from the 17th century. One of the tallest local buildings is the 27-meter lighthouse. It offers a picturesque view. Just to clarify: there are no beaches here. If you want to lie in the sun by the ocean, you'll have to take a trip to the town of Unawatuna. It is located just 5 kilometers from Halle.

• Bentota

Romantic people will love the town of Bentota. It is especially popular with lovers and married couples. It is home to the Confini Marina, the country's largest water sports center. You can choose from surfing, water skiing, catamaran, canoeing, banana boating, or scootering.

• Hikkaduwa

A popular vacation spot for surfing enthusiasts. They come from all over the world to catch big waves on the beaches of Hikkaduwa and Narigama. If you haven't tried surfing yet or want to improve your skills, there are plenty of schools in the area that will gladly teach you. At night, check out one of the bars, which are always bustling with activity.

These are just a few of the many attractive places in Sri Lanka. The country also offers beautiful national parks, cultural attractions, spa resorts, and other places of interest that are worth visiting.

How to choose a hotel in Sri Lanka

Here are some criteria that can help you in the process of choosing a hotel:

• location (beach area, city center or quiet surroundings)
• your budget;
• reviews and ratings;
• availability of convenient infrastructure.

The price of hotel accommodation in Sri Lanka varies significantly depending on location, class and seasonality.

In budget hotels and guest houses, the cost of accommodation can start from $30-50 per night for a standard room. They offer basic amenities such as fans, shared bathrooms, and simple services.

Mid-range hotels provide more comfort and amenities. The cost of living here is approximately $70-150 per night. Guests here have a private bathroom, air conditioning, and access to a restaurant and swimming pool.

Expensive hotels in Sri Lanka offer a high level of service, luxurious rooms, and a variety of entertainment. Prices can start from $200 per night.

Food

Sri Lanka has a rich culinary tradition, which is revealed by the local flavors and aromas. Here are some popular delicacies that you can try during your trip to the country.

Curried rice is a national dish. It's not hard to guess that it consists of boiled rice and various types of curry: from meat and fish to vegetables. The delicacy can be spicy or not: depending on your preferences.

Hoppers are thin pancakes made from rice dough, coconut milk, and yeast. They can be sweet or savory, and range from traditional to seafood versions.

Kotti is a type of flavored rice bread often served with meat or fish, as well as cheese and egg. The dish can have various fillings and is a popular Sri Lankan fast food dish.

Roti is a thin flatbread made of wheat dough, often served with curry or other sauces. The dish can also come with various additions, such as potatoes, onions, or herbs.

Sri Lanka is famous for its juicy tropical fruits. Most of them are mango, pineapple, papaya, lychee and bananas. Don't forget to try them.

As for the cost of meals, it can vary from place to place. In mid-priced restaurants, it will range from 300 to 800 LKR (approximately $2-5). In premium establishments, prices are much higher.

Total trip budget

The budget for a 7-day trip to Sri Lanka can vary depending on your lifestyle, preferences and chosen comfort level. Approximate prices are as follows:

• flight - from $600 to $1500 (depending on the country of departure);
• accommodation - from $200 to $700;
• meals - $150-300;
• transportation - $100-300.

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