How to Get Around Sri Lanka Without Breaking the Bank—Explore Island Allures

A variety of accommodation options are available in Sri Lanka. Choose from uber-chic and budget to hostels; anything that suits your budget. Most tourists exploring the island find that they are able to enjoy a mix of accommodations when they plan wisely. You may find that some of the five-star hotels are affordable while others like the best hotels in Colombo, the commercial capital, are stylish, modern, and comfortable. Some like Mandarina Colombo are so well located in the city that you can save quite a bit when it comes to transport and sightseeing. Explore your options and don’t be afraid to check the rates; you may be pleasantly surprised at how affordable top Colombo city hotels are.

The transport infrastructure in Sri Lanka is good. Colombo is well connected to all parts of the island via bus and train. Getting about the city is easy as there are tuk-tuks and buses from basic to air-conditioned. You can download taxi apps such as Uber or Pick-Me to hail the vehicle of your choice when travelling. The main bus stand in Pettah offers connections to just about all parts of the island as do trains.

You can fly to your destination in Sri Lanka if your pockets are wider. Direct transfers via air taxi are possible from the international airport. This cuts travel time drastically, although road travel is the most immersive and rewarding in Sri Lanka. You can check for car hire options too; vehicles are available with or without drivers; although the former is highly recommended for those of you who are not adapted to driving on tough Asian streets where the chaos can be quite mind-boggling.

Scooters too are available for hire and make an easy transport every time you are trying to navigate the traffic-clogged streets. Train tickets are very cheap and again are available in varied denominations depending on the type of travel you choose; first class, second or third as well as observation decks. The Colombo to Kandy or Ella train ride is very rewarding and worth purchasing your tickets in advance.

Just like everything else, food is valued by its presentation. You can live off of street food and short eats or check out the lavish buffet spreads at the top hotels in Colombo. There are plenty of seafood restaurants around the coastal areas of Colombo and travelling out of the city will help you to sample a variety of traditional and local cuisine from wayside kiosks. These are some of the best experiences in Sri Lanka.

Rice and curry, the staple meal in the country, is a must-try. It is also one of the cheapest and full meals you can enjoy; one meal consists of a mound of rice served with two or three seasonal vegetables, cooked according to traditional recipes, and a protein.

The commercial capital Colombo has several attractions that you can enjoy for free. The Vihara Maha Devi Park, for example, which is just walking distance from the city hotels, is a lovely green sanctuary of trees, fountains, walking tracks and kiddies’ zones. It is located in the middle of the city and can magically transport you to a quiet haven free from the hustle and bustle. The temples in Sri Lanka are quiet serene places that you can visit to learn about the nation’s history and religions; Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity. There are several shrines dedicated to the faiths spread across the island. Some are historical treasures, several centuries old and well worth your visit.

Let’s not forget the beaches of Sri Lanka, they are yours to enjoy at no cost. Wide open banks of sand lapped by the Indian Ocean where you can chill, work on your tan and swim to your heart’s desire. Overall, travel in Sri Lanka is not a costly affair. With proper planning, you can enjoy a comfortable, exciting, and vibrant holiday.