Things to Do in Sri Lanka - Do not miss out on these!

Sri Lanka is surrounded by the warm Indian Ocean and boasts incredibly beautiful beaches in every direction. Head to the southern coast, where the seaside towns of Galle, Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Dickwella, Mirissa, Tangalle and Matara will have some of the loveliest seasides on the island. The beachside vibe is perfect for those who want to socialise and mingle with other travellers. Surfing and snorkelling are popular in these areas, with plenty of top beachside restaurants and cafes. If you head to the east coast, the towns of Arugambay, Passikudha, Kalkudah, and Trincomalee will enchant you with their beautiful beaches, which are great for water sports like snorkelling. Delve into uncharted and pristine beach territory by heading northwards towards Jaffna to beaches like Kankesanthurai, Casuarina, and Charty for adventure and exploration.

Sri Lanka has a history of over 2600 years spanning seven kingdoms. Thus, the island is dotted with many archaeological treasures. If you travel to Sri Lanka, don't miss out on Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. These towns were where the ancient Sinhalese Kingdoms first started. Encounter massive stupas, vast irrigation tanks, monasteries, swimming ponds, palaces, and incredible Buddhist art and architecture.

Lion Rock of Sigiriya is another magnificent site. Its creation was the brainchild of a parricide king who usurped the throne from its rightful heir. A monolith millions of years old became a palace citadel and kingdom until he succumbed in defeat to the invading forces of his half-brother.

For a small country, Sri Lanka has incredible diversity when it comes to its wildlife, and multiple National Parks allow you to witness all this and more. Some of the famous national parks are Udawalawe, Sinharaja Rainforest, Yala, Willpattu, Kaudulla, Gal Oya, Minneriya, Wasgamuwa, Bundala, and Horton Plains. You can expect to see endemic animals like the Sri Lankan elephant, spotted dear, Sri Lankan leopard, water buffalo, Sri Lankan sloth bear, Red Slender Loris, Purple-Faced Langur, Sri Lankan jungle fowl and a number of other animals. Always ensure your travel guides and safari vehicles respect the natural surroundings and abstain from speeding or getting too close to wild animals.

Sri Lankans eat with their right hands, like in most South Asian countries. Not only is this the norm, but it is also the best way to savour all the delicious flavours Sri Lankan food has in store for you. Mixing the food with your hands boosts the flavour, especially when it comes to a typical meal of rice and curry.
In Sri Lanka, most people will eat food with their hands for all three meals, save for some dishes like kottu, fried rice and noodle dishes where utensils are the common practice. It is very important to stick to the right hand, or you might end up with a few curious looks. The rice gets mixed with all the curries, made into little morsels and popped into the mouth. Make sure the food only touches your fingertips and not your palm. It will take some practice, but it is the only way to enjoy a meal in true Sri Lankan style.

If you thought Sri Lanka was hot and humid all year around, think again. The central province mountain ranges provide a cool respite for those who want a break from the heat. The weather is mild in the Central Highlands, where you will encounter some of the most beautiful sights in all of Sri Lanka. Filled with verdant tea plantations, misty green mountains, lush jungles, and waterfalls, the hillside stations are a nature lover's dream. Nuwara Eliya, Haputale, Hatton, Badulla, and Ella are some of the best towns where you can experience chilly, mild weather. Learn more about these destinations with travel blogs such as Truly Sri Lanka.