Sri Lanka hotels

It’s easy enough to choose the location of your hotel in Sri-Lanka based on what you want to do on your trip. Choose carefully and you will be able to tie in your accommodation with some of the great activities that this island nation has to offer. The Elephant Safari hotel is quirky and welcoming. This complex of bungalows is located within the Udawalawe National Park and gives you a chance to quite literally eat and sleep with these majestic creatures. If you’re looking for something more traditional, then give Amaya Lake a try. This beautiful hotel has on-site boat tours available, dinner on the gorgeous decking by the lake, and all the mod-cons you could ask for. For something totally different you might want to stay in one of Sri-Lanka’s busier areas. Where better to start than Colombo? This coastal city has plenty going on and still makes it easy to travel out into the surrounding area if the mood strikes. Colombo City Hotels are popular, and have some great rooms available within the busier areas of the island. Book your lastminute.com holiday to Sri-Lanka now and make great savings on package deals. Experience this Indian island on the holiday of a lifetime.

Must-sees in Sri Lanka

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the island nation of Sri Lanka is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by adventurous travellers. With its rich history, diverse culture and stunning natural landscapes, this small country has something for everyone. From ancient temples to busy cities, here are the top sights and attractions to add to a Sri Lanka itinerary.

First on the list is the ancient city of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. Built over 1,500 years ago, this majestic rock fortress sits atop a 660-foot tall rock, offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can admire the impressive engineering and architectural feat of this ancient palace and learn about its fascinating history through the intricate frescoes and graffiti found on the walls.

Next up is the city of Kandy, known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Here, visitors can visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of the tooth of Buddha. This temple is not only an important religious site, but also a beautiful example of traditional Sri Lankan architecture. Make sure to catch the daily ritual of the offering of flowers and incense to the sacred tooth, a truly mesmerising experience.

For nature lovers, a visit to Yala National Park is a must. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animals, including leopards, elephants and a variety of bird species. Embark on a safari tour to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and gaze at the breath-taking landscapes of the park as well.

Another top attraction is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a well-preserved archaeological site that showcases the country's rich history. Here, visitors can explore the ruins of grand palaces, temples and monasteries, giving them a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited this royal city. The highlight of Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara, a group of Buddha statues carved from a single piece of granite rock.

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without a visit to the iconic tea plantations in the central highlands. Take a scenic train ride through the lush green hills and valleys and spend a day at a tea estate to learn about the process of tea production. Don't forget to savour a cup of world-renowned Ceylon tea while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Lastly, for a beach getaway, head to the coastal town of Mirissa. This idyllic beach destination offers stunning white sand beaches, crystal blue waters and a laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular spot for dolphin and whale watching, making it a great place to experience the diverse marine life of Sri Lanka.

Go shopping in Sri Lanka

Shopping in Sri Lanka presents a multitude of opportunities for visitors and locals alike. This island nation, known for its gemstone industry, tea plantations and vibrant handicrafts, offers a range of goods that reflect its cultural diversity and history.

Among the prime locations for shopping in Sri Lanka, the city of Colombo stands out. Pettah Market, located in the heart of the city, has long been recognised as a centre for fashionistas and trendsetters. The market is teeming with stands that sell a variety of clothing, from high-end designer pieces to more affordable, locally-produced items. The eclectic mix of shops and stalls provides something for every taste and budget, making this area a must-visit for anyone interested in fashion and textiles.

In addition to fashion, Colombo hosts affordable shopping opportunities elsewhere. The Good Market at the Race Course Grounds is known for its selection of organic products, eco-friendly goods and handcrafted items, while the Pettah Floating Market presents a unique shopping experience with its array of stalls on boats. These places are ideal for those seeking to combine affordable pricing with a diverse selection of goods.

One of the highlights for any traveller to Sri Lanka is surely the range of locally-produced souvenirs available. Some of the favourites include intricately-carved wooden masks, handwoven fabrics by local artisans, a variety of spice mixtures that reflect the country's rich culinary traditions and the famed Sri Lankan tea. Slightly less well known but worth checking out are Sri Lanka's beautiful batik prints. Batik textiles, with their vibrant colours and patterns, have been a part of the local culture for centuries and are considered an ideal memento of a trip to this unique island.

Gemstone enthusiasts are also well catered for in Sri Lanka. The country’s Ratnapura district is globally recognised for its gem mining industry. From blue sapphires and rubies to unique semi-precious stones, the variety on offer is truly astounding.