What You Need to Know Before Your Solo Trip to Sri Lanka

With palm-fringed serene beaches, lush green hiking trails, ancient Buddhist temples, colonial architectures, and refreshing tea plantations – Sri Lanka has become one of the irresistible solo travel destinations. In fact, from Colombo and Kandy to Galle, every Sri Lankan city deserves a spot on your itinerary.

In addition, the Sri Lankan culture and cuisine add an extra layer of charm to the country. And do you know when the magic happens? When you blend in with the locals and explore Sri Lanka as a Sri Lankan.
You can check out my ultimate solo travel itinerary for Sri Lanka and other blogs on the country for tips and tricks to make your solo trip to Sri Lanka a successful one.

Things to do in Sri Lanka

Spot blue whales at Mirrisa.
Experience old-world charm at ‘Little England,’ Nuwara Eliya.
Learn and bond with turtles.
Navigate through the mangroves.
Watch the elephants basking in their habitat on a safari.
Attend the Nallur festival in Jaffna.
Take a boat ride to Nainativu temple.
Engage in cooking classes to try whipping out some Sri Lankan delicacies.
Climb up the 200-metre Sigiriya rock, a UNESCO site.
Try out tea and cinnamon plantations.
Hop on a train ride from Kandy to Ella.
Watch a live performance of an old Sri Lankan martial art – Angampora.
Visit the largest cave temple in Asia, Dambulla Cave temple.

Travel Expenses: What to Budget

Accommodation – Even on a budget, you have several stay options in Sri Lanka. You can stay in a hut near the beach at $5 per night or drop in at a hostel dorm between $6 – $15. Homestays or guest houses also offer top-notch services at an affordable rate.
Food – Food in Sri Lanka is inexpensive. You can wrap up a fully loaded meal of curry, rice, fish and chicken for under $5. Did you just burp? On the whole, you can expect to cover all your meals under $15 per day.
Transportation – Trains and buses are the best way to get around Sri Lanka on a budget. They are ridiculously low. However, it can get hot and crowded. So, I suggest mix and match. Trains and buses with scooters or tuk-tuk. In Sri Lanka, you can even rent a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuk rentals start from $12 per day.

Recommended Daily Budget

Overall, for basic accommodation, meals, and transport, a budget traveller can expect to spend around $30 – $50 per day. This daily cost varies based on your activity. However, if you are a mid-budget traveller in Sri Lanka – with better accommodation and transportation, you may spend up to $70 – $100 a day.

Proven and Tested Money-Saving Tricks!

Do check flights from India to Sri Lanka; sometimes, they cost less than direct flights to the nation.
Get your visa online.
Upon arrival, grab a local SIM to activate the tourist plan.
Take the airport bus to reach Colombo at a cheaper cost.
Check meters before hopping on a tuk-tuk.
Do not stay in the main region of the nation.
To get good rates, book your stay two months prior.
Skip booking tours on full moon day as the prices tend to be higher.
Incorporate some of the less expensive excursions in the itinerary.
Purchase spices from supermarkets instead of spice gardens.
Use apps like ‘Pick Me’ for a ride over taxis.

In a Nutshell, What Awaits You in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a tropical jewel. No doubt why it is called ‘the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.’ It has got ALL the goods, and I mean it. Whether you are a beach bum, a culture-driven person, or a wildlife admirer, Sri Lanka has your back. So, what are you waiting for? It is time to pack your back and discover Sri Lanka on your solo trip.