Helix Digi Labs
If you are even remotely on Instagram, then you know that the most followed accounts are the ones with the best locations, perfect lighting and innovative shots. Look no further than Sri Lanka, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean that was providing insta-worthy locations long before it was even a thing.
Dalawella is a quiet beach near Unawatuna, which is really close to Hikkaduwa hotels, and around two hours away from Colombo. The main attraction is the rope swing that is attached to a palm tree that leans over the ocean, resulting in a fun rush of adrenaline as you swing out over the waves. It takes a great picture as well, since the angle makes it look like the tree is directly above the water, and catching it at sunset will make for incredible lighting!
(Image credit to samtomaselli | Instagram)
Ella has a plethora of instagrammable locations, the best one being Ella rock itself. After an arduous but rewarding hike is the top of the rock: a forest that leads to a lookout point that has a stellar view. There’s a specific rock in particular that makes for incredible pictures, sitting on it makes you look like you’re right over the valley.
(Image credit to kamigalvez | Instagram)
A short drive and a longer but beautiful walk from Ella town takes you to the famous Nine arch bridge, a feat of architecture that is impressive to this day. The bridge was built at an angle with no concrete and trains still run on it. If you’re lucky you’ll catch the train going across it – which looks incredible in pics especially if you can get it from far away! If you miss it, then the bridge itself makes for some incredible photographs.
(Image credit to s.j.wijee | Instagram)
The third and last spot in Ella – little Adams peak - is considerably less effort than Ella rock but still has a stunning view. There’s a rock that hangs over the drop, it’s very safe to sit on it but it makes for a dangerous looking picture which will be appreciated on social media!
(Image credit to explorewithlee | Instagram)
Sigiriya is a major tourist attraction in the country, but what better way to snap it than to take a picture of it up close... from the mountain right next to it? It’s a quick climb to the top, with a few stretches where you have to literally climb the rocks, but the view is amazing as on one side you see the great lion rock and from the other you see the evergreen plains that stretch far out to the horizon.
(Image credit to travelwithgivenny | Instagram)
These two gigantic structures have to be seen to be believed. Jetavanaramaya was one of the tallest structures in ancient history, and the stupa is still impressive today. Built with bricks, the earthy rust coloured structure is imposing against the blue sky, and makes anyone look tiny next to it! Ruwanwelisaya is a peaceful white, not as imposing, but lovelier than the former stupa, and looks brilliant against the sky.
(Image credit to clin_cio | Instagram)
Diyaluma falls (close to Ella) is the very definition of an Instagrammable location. It takes guts to even hike to the location, but once you get there it’s all worth it. Featuring various natural pools at different levels, the falls drop straight down to make for an impressive picture of you swimming in nature’s most beautiful infinity pool.
(Image credit to shaheernazeer | Instagram)
The entirety of the fort is amazing for captures, but a photo beside the tall white lighthouse with swaying coconut trees beside it is the quintessential Galle summer Instagram picture that you cannot miss out on!
(Image credit to chanakaniro | Instagram)
This elephant orphanage features rescued elephants as well as those born in the sanctuary itself that are fed and bathed at certain times, making for a lovely atmosphere. Be respectful of these majestic creatures, and you’re sure to get a lovely photo that will look amazing as well as remind you of how awesome the elephants are!
(Image credit to brechtdegeyter | Instagram)
While the island isn’t really an island, more like a large rock that’s just off shore, you have to get your feet wet to get to it and the view from the rock is amazing – pure deep blue sea with no land in sight. It’s well worth the visit!
(Image credit to zorina.vika | Instagram)
