Sri Lanka

Exploring the Wonders of Sri Lanka: A Diverse and Unforgettable Adventure

Sri Lanka is one of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse places I have ever visited. This island nation offers something for every type of traveler—whether you're looking to surf on beautiful beaches, experience a thrilling safari tour with wild elephants, hike through lush jungles to ancient monuments, or soak in the tranquility of mountain landscapes. It’s truly a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, and I’d rank it among my top destinations.

Sigiriya: The Lion Rock

I highly recommend starting your journey with a few days in Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock, a monumental ancient palace built atop a massive rock that rises nearly 200 meters from the jungle. The climb to the top is an adventure in itself, with narrow staircases that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll pass through ancient frescoes and murals, as well as the massive stone lion paws that give the site its name. The view from the summit, overlooking the lush green forest, is something you’ll never forget.

Minneriya National Park: An Elephant Safari

Just a short drive from Sigiriya is Minneriya National Park, one of the best places in the world to see wild elephants. This national park is home to the Minneriya Elephant Gathering, an incredible wildlife spectacle where hundreds of elephants congregate around the waterholes during the dry season (from July to September). We were able to witness these gentle giants up close on a safari tour, which I highly recommend. It’s an awe-inspiring experience to see herds of elephants roaming freely, along with other wildlife such as leopards, monkeys, and exotic birds.

Train Journey from Nanuoya to Ella

A must-do in Sri Lanka is the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella, often called one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The ride takes you through lush tea plantations, misty mountain ranges, and charming villages. We decided to shorten the journey by starting at Nanuoya, a small town in the middle of the route, and the two-hour ride was an absolute highlight. The train has open doors, allowing you to hang out and take in the incredible views. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss!

Unawatuna: Relaxing by the Beach

After our adventures inland, we headed to Unawatuna, my personal favorite part of the trip. Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is known for its stunning golden beaches and turquoise waters, which stay a balmy 83 degrees year-round. This beach town offers a more laid-back vibe, with great beach bars and restaurants that sit right on the shore. If you’re into scuba diving, Unawatuna has some amazing dive sites, with vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. If possible, I recommend staying in a beachfront villa or hotel so you can walk straight from your room to the sand.

Essential Travel Tip: Hire a Local Driver

One thing that made our trip especially smooth was hiring a local driver, Anu, who not only got us to each destination safely but also acted as our translator and guide. He took care of all the logistics and helped us navigate Sri Lanka’s sometimes hectic roads. His friendly demeanor and local knowledge made a huge difference, so if you’re planning to explore multiple regions, I highly recommend reaching out to him. His WhatsApp is +94 77 155 1805—tell him Connor sent you!

From the ancient monuments of Sigiriya to the beaches of Unawatuna, Sri Lanka offers an unparalleled range of experiences. Whether you're an adrenaline seeker, a history buff, or just looking for a serene getaway, this destination has it all. Pack your TRVLD suitcase, and get ready to explore a true gem of South Asia!