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WHY SRI LANKA IS SO SPECIAL FOR TOURISTS?

Sri Lanka is special for tourists because it offers a rare blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, all within a compact island. The Best Part is you can pass many climatic conditions within few hours of drive from one end to another end in the country.

And lets take a look at some key reasons why Sri Lanka stands out as a unique travel destination:

1. Diverse Landscapes in a Small Area

Within just a few hours of travel, tourists can go from sun-kissed beaches to lush rainforests, misty mountains, or ancient cities. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore multiple experiences in a single trip.

2. World-Class Beaches

Sri Lanka is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia, such as Unawatuna, Mirissa, Arugam Bay, and Nilaveli. These are ideal for sunbathing, surfing, diving, and whale watching.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage

With a history that dates back over 2,500 years, Sri Lanka is home to ancient kingdoms, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and sacred temples like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the rock fortress of Sigiriya.

4. Wildlife and Nature

The country is one of the best places in Asia for safaris, offering the chance to see elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a wide variety of birds in national parks such as Yala, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe.

5. Unique Train Journeys

The scenic train rides—especially from Kandy to Ella—are famous worldwide, passing through tea plantations, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain landscapes.

6. Delicious and Distinct Cuisine

Sri Lankan food is flavorful and diverse, known for its aromatic curries, seafood, tropical fruits, and street food like kottu roti and hoppers. Each region has its own twist on traditional dishes.

7. Friendly and Hospitable People

Sri Lankans are known for their warmth and hospitality. Tourists often comment on how welcomed and cared for they feel during their stay.

8. Spiritual Experiences

With a deeply rooted Buddhist culture, Sri Lanka offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can explore ancient stupas, join meditation retreats, or take part in traditional festivals like Vesak.

9. Tea Country Charm

The central highlands are home to lush tea estates and colonial-era towns like Nuwara Eliya. Visitors can tour tea factories and enjoy cool climates and breathtaking views.

10. Adventure and Sports

Whether it’s hiking in the Knuckles Range, surfing at Arugam Bay, white-water rafting in Kitulgala, or diving in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka is a paradise for adventure seekers.

In essence, Sri Lanka offers a complete travel experience—sun, culture, wildlife, adventure, food, and spirituality—all with warm smiles and unforgettable stories. That’s what makes it truly special for tourists.

You should try these pickles while in Sri Lanka!

Your culinary adventure won’t be complete without experiencing its rich variety of pickles in the Paradise Island

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, your culinary adventure won’t be complete without experiencing its rich variety of pickles—locally known as achcharu. Sri Lankan pickles are a vibrant, tangy, spicy, and sometimes sweet explosion of flavor that reflects the island’s unique blend of cultures, spices, and tropical ingredients.

In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 Sri Lankan pickles you must try. Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, these pickles will leave your taste buds tingling and craving more.

1. Sinhala Achcharu (Traditional Sri Lankan Mixed Pickle)

A staple at every Sri Lankan festive table, Sinhala Achcharu is a colorful mix of vegetables like carrots, green beans, onions, and raw papaya, soaked in a sweet and spicy vinegar base. It’s the most iconic Sri Lankan pickle—perfectly balancing sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

2. Malay Pickle (Malay Achcharu)

This pickle traces its origins to Sri Lanka’s Malay community. It’s darker and richer than the Sinhala version, often including pineapple, dates, mustard seeds, and green chilies.

3. Ambarella Achcharu (June Plum Pickle)

Ambarella, or June plum, is a crunchy tropical fruit with a tart flavor. Pickled with salt, vinegar, chili, and sugar, it’s a street food favorite and a must-try for spice lovers.

Best with: As a snack or side dish.

4. Veralu Achcharu (Ceylon Olive Pickle)

Veralu (Ceylon olive) is another street food delicacy. These small green fruits are pickled with chili, salt, and vinegar, creating an irresistible spicy and sour snack.

Best with: As a spicy treat during sightseeing.

5. Pineapple Achcharu

Fresh pineapple slices soaked in a mix of chili powder, salt, and lime juice create a sweet-and-spicy punch. It’s tropical, refreshing, and addictively tangy.

Best with: Barbecue, fried rice, or eaten solo.

6. Mango Achcharu (Raw Mango Pickle)

Unripe mangoes are sliced and pickled with chili, salt, and sugar. This pickle is mouthwateringly tangy and a popular roadside treat.

Best with: Hoppers, string hoppers, or as a standalone snack

7. Polos Achcharu (Baby Jackfruit Pickle)

Polos (young jackfruit) is a beloved ingredient in Sri Lankan cuisine. When pickled, it absorbs bold flavors and becomes a hearty, spicy side dish.

Best with: Rice and curry, pittu

8. Lunu Dehi (Lime Pickle)

Made with sun-dried limes, Lunu Dehi is intensely sour and salty. It’s usually served in small portions due to its strong flavor but adds a powerful zing to any meal.

Best with: Curd and treacle, rice and dhal
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9. Karavila Achcharu (Bitter Gourd Pickle)

Bitter gourd is sliced thin, deep-fried, and pickled with onions, mustard, and vinegar. The bitterness is mellowed out, leaving behind a crunchy, tangy delight.

Best with: Fish curry, steamed rice
SEO Keywords: bitter gourd pickle Sri Lanka, Karavila achcharu, healthy Sri Lankan pickles

10. Capsicum and Onion Achcharu

A modern twist on traditional achcharu, this uses bell peppers and onions tossed in vinegar, mustard, and chili. It’s colorful, zesty, and adds a fresh crunch to any plate.

Best with: Grilled chicken, naan bread, burgers

Final Thoughts

Sri Lankan pickles are more than just condiments—they’re cultural treasures. Whether you’re enjoying a five-star meal or street food by the beach, achcharu adds an authentic burst of island flavor to every bite.

So don’t leave Sri Lanka without tasting these 10 pickles. They’re spicy, sour, sweet, and unforgettable—just like the island itself.

Author Posted on Categories Food

BE AWARE OF THESE 10 ANIMALS, WHEN YOU’RE VISITING SRI LANKA!

Here are 10 of the most dangerous animals in Sri Lanka that you should be aware of, especially when exploring the wild or rural areas: However, not to worry much, we rarely hear tourists getting attacked, as they travel with ‘safe eco system’.

1. Russell’s Viper

  • Danger: Highly venomous snake.
  • Risk: Causes numerous snakebite deaths in Sri Lanka annually.
  • Habitat: Grasslands, paddy fields, and farmlands.

2. Indian Cobra

  • Danger: Deadly neurotoxic venom.
  • Risk: Commonly found near human settlements.
  • Habitat: Open forests, farmlands, and near water sources.

3. Sri Lankan Elephant

  • Danger: While majestic, wild elephants can be unpredictable and aggressive.
  • Risk: Frequent human-elephant conflict, especially in rural areas.
  • Habitat: National parks and dry zone forests.

4. Leopard

  • Danger: Apex predator in Sri Lanka.
  • Risk: Rarely attacks humans, but can be dangerous when cornered or provoked.
  • Habitat: Dense forests like Yala and Wilpattu.

5. Saltwater Crocodile

  • Danger: Extremely aggressive and powerful.
  • Risk: Attacks have occurred in rivers, lagoons, and coastal areas.
  • Habitat: Estuaries, mangroves, and coastal rivers.

6. Common Krait

  • Danger: Highly venomous, bites are often painless but fatal.
  • Risk: Bites often occur at night while victims are asleep.
  • Habitat: Rural homes, paddy fields, and scrublands.

7. Saw-scaled Viper

  • Danger: Small but extremely aggressive and venomous.
  • Risk: Rapid striking speed; often mistaken for a harmless snake.
  • Habitat: Dry zones and arid scrublands.

8. Wild Boar

  • Danger: Surprisingly aggressive when threatened.
  • Risk: Can charge humans, causing serious injuries.
  • Habitat: Forests and farmlands.

9. Scorpions

  • Danger: Painful stings; some species are venomous.
  • Risk: Can cause severe allergic reactions or shock in children and the elderly.
  • Habitat: Dry zones, under rocks, and tree bark.

10. Mosquito

  • Danger: Carries deadly diseases.
  • Risk: Transmits dengue, chikungunya, and malaria.
  • Habitat: Urban areas, stagnant water pools.

Precautions

  • Avoid walking barefoot in bushy areas.
  • Be cautious when trekking or camping.
  • Use mosquito repellents and protective nets.
  • Avoid provoking wild animals or venturing too close.

✅ How to Take Care of Your Health While in Sri Lanka

1. Drink Safe Water

🚫 Avoid tap water. – However, majority of Sri Lankans drink ‘Tap Water’including this writer, and I never experienced any trouble. The Govt. has a very sound and systemized cleaning program, so its up to you to make the decision.
✅ Stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water.
Always check if the bottle is sealed before drinking.

2. Be Cautious with Street Food

🍛 While street food is delicious, choose stalls that are busy and clean.
Freshly cooked and hot food is safest. Out of 100 Food stalls, you may find ‘one guy’ trying to play around, so check for ‘Busy’ Stalls and ‘Hot Foods.’
Avoid raw salads unless from trusted restaurants.

3. Stay Hydrated (It’s Hot!)

💧 Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, so you’ll sweat a lot.
Drink plenty of fluids—water, king coconut, and herbal drinks are great choices.
Avoid too many sugary or fizzy drinks.

4. Use Sunscreen & Hats

🌞 Protect yourself from strong UV rays.
Use a quality sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay in the shade during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm).

5. Be Aware of Mosquitoes

🦟 Sri Lanka is mostly safe but dengue fever is present in some areas.

  • Use mosquito repellent (especially in the evening)
  • Wear long sleeves and pants if in rural or forested areas
  • Use a mosquito net if staying in basic accommodation

6. Get Travel Insurance

✅ Always travel with a valid travel health insurance policy.
It can help cover medical expenses in case of emergencies or accidents.

7. Know Where to Find Medical Help

🏥 Major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle have good private hospitals (Asiri, Nawaloka, Lanka Hospitals, etc.) However, all ‘cities’ in the country has ‘Government Hospitals, which will help you at times of ‘trouble.’ Ample Doctors and Nurses.
Carry basic first aid and medication with you when traveling to remote areas.

8. Watch Out for Spicy Food

🌶 Sri Lankan food can be very spicy.
Start with mild dishes and increase spice gradually if you’re not used to it.

9. Travel Smart During the Monsoon

🌧 Wet season can cause slippery roads, waterborne infections, and minor flooding.
Wear suitable footwear, avoid floodwaters, and wash your hands frequently.

10. Stay Active but Rest Well

🚶 Walk, hike, and explore – but get enough sleep.
Sri Lanka’s tropical pace calls for balance between adventure and rest.

🧘 Bonus Tip:
Try a local Ayurvedic massage or herbal steam bath—it’s a natural way to stay relaxed and boost immunity!

✈️10 THINGS ABOUT SRI LANKA’S MAIN AIRPORT ‘BIA’

1. Main Entry Point to Sri Lanka

Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is the main international airport in Sri Lanka. It’s where most international travelers arrive and depart.

2. Located Close to Colombo

BIA is just 30 km from Colombo (about 45 minutes by highway). It’s located in Katunayake, close to the beach city of Negombo.

3. Visa On Arrival & E-Visa

Most travelers can get a tourist visa online (ETA) before arrival. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival, but it’s safer to apply online.

👉 Visit: www.eta.gov.lk

4. Transportation is Easy

You’ll find airport taxis, Uber, and PickMe (a local ride app) just outside the terminal. For a smooth ride, book a taxi from the official counter or app.

5. Currency Exchange & SIM Cards Available

Right after customs, there are multiple currency exchange counters and mobile providers offering tourist SIM cards with data packages.

💡Tip: Dialog and Mobitel are the most popular SIM card options.

6. Free Wi-Fi Inside the Terminal

The airport offers free Wi-Fi. Just connect to the “BIA Free WiFi” network and follow the instructions on the landing page.

7. Duty-Free Shopping on Arrival & Departure

Sri Lanka is unique—duty-free shopping is available both when you arrive and when you leave. Great for buying electronics, perfumes, and liquor.

8. Luggage Services & Baggage Wrapping

Need to wrap your luggage or use a porter? These services are available in the arrival and departure halls for a small fee.

9. Plenty of Food & Rest Areas

While facilities are basic compared to larger airports, there are cafés, snack shops, tea counters, and seating/rest zones inside.

10. Airport Expansion in Progress

A brand new Terminal 2 is under construction to improve the passenger experience. Expect better facilities and more space soon.

✅ Bonus Tip:
If you’re booking a hotel nearby, consider Negombo—it’s just 15–20 minutes away and has great beaches, food, and a relaxing vibe before you explore Sri Lanka.

10 OF THE TASTIEST AND MOST POPULAR STREET FOODS IN SRI LANKA

1. Kottu Roti

Sri Lanka’s most iconic street food—chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, meat (or cheese), and aromatic spices. The sound of the metal blades clanging on the griddle is part of the experience. Cost: ranges from US$ 1 to 3, depending on where you buy.

2. Isso Wade (Prawn Fritters)

Crispy deep-fried lentil patties topped with whole prawns, often served with spicy chutneys. A must-try at coastal stalls or Galle Face Green in Colombo. Cost: For 1 USD, you can by minimum 15 of them.

3. Egg Hoppers (Biththara Appa)

Bowl-shaped crispy pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, with a soft egg in the center. Often served with lunu miris (spicy onion sambal). Cost: Per USD 1, you can purchase 2 of them.

4. Fish Roti / Vegetable Roti

Triangular or rolled stuffed flatbreads filled with curried fish, potato, or vegetables. Spicy, filling, and perfect for a quick snack. Cost: Minimum Two and Maximum 3 per USD 1.

5. Parippu Wade (Lentil Fritters)

Crunchy snacks made from ground lentils, spices, and green chilies. Often enjoyed with sweet tea or spicy sauce. Cost: Per USD 1, you can purchase a minimum of 15 Lentil Fritters.

6. Achcharu (Sri Lankan Pickled Fruits)

Street-style pickled fruits like mango, pineapple, or ambarella soaked in a tangy-sweet-spicy mix of chili, vinegar, and sugar. A favorite among locals on a hot day. Cost: A cup of Pickled Fruits may cost a minimum of US Dollar Half.

7. Naan with Dhal Curry or Pol Sambol

Freshly made naan or roti served with spicy lentil curry or coconut sambol, usually from roadside eateries or “roti kades.” Cost: You can buy one or two Naan with Dhal Curry or Pol Sambol for US$ 1. But, atleast you need three Naan’s to ensure that you will not feel hungry soon.

8. Ulundu Wade (Vadai)

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these are savory doughnuts made from urad dal and spices. Often paired with chutneys or sambar. Cost: Two Big Wade’s you can buy at a price of USD 1.

9. Cassava Chips

Crispy and spicy deep-fried tapioca (manioc) chips seasoned with chili and salt—sold in packets on buses and trains. Cost: A packet of Cassava Chips may cost you US$ 1, sometimes, even lesser.

10. Pol Roti Sandwiches

Flat coconut roti served with fillings like onions, chili paste, egg, or spicy fish. It’s a hearty street food option, especially popular for breakfast. Cost: You can eat about three to four of them with some gravy or sambol for a price of US$ 1.

Kindly note that the prices given here are based on ‘Street Food’ prices, while if you do eat in high end restaurants, prices will vary.

HOW TO MAKE SRI LANKA’S FAVOURITE STREET FOOD ‘KOTTU ROTI’

🥘 What is Kottu Roti?

Kottu (or Koththu) is a beloved Sri Lankan dish made from chopped godamba roti (flatbread), mixed with vegetables, eggs, meat (optional), and a blend of spices. It’s traditionally prepared on a hot griddle using metal blades that produce a rhythmic chopping sound – a signature of Sri Lankan street food culture.

🍽️ Ingredients (4 servings)

🔹 Base:

  • 4–5 Godamba roti (or paratha/roti) – sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp oil

🔹 Proteins (choose one):

  • 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
  • 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken, beef, or tofu

🔹 Vegetables:

  • 1 onion (sliced)
  • 2–3 green chilies (sliced)
  • 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 carrot (grated or thinly sliced)
  • 1 tomato (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
  • Few curry leaves (optional)

🔹 Sauce Mix:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to tast

HOW TO ENJOY A 12-DAY TRIP TO SRI LANKA

🗓️Day 1 – Arrival in Colombo → Negombo

  • Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport
  • Transfer to Negombo (20–30 mins) – The Most Nearby Tourist Attraction to the Airport
  • Explore the Dutch Canal, Negombo Beach, and enjoy seafood dinner

Overnight: Negombo

🗓️Day 2 – Travel to Sigiriya

  • Drive to Sigiriya (approx. 4 hours)
  • En route visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (optional)
  • Check in and relax at a jungle lodge

Overnight: Sigiriya or Habarana

🗓️ Day 3 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Village Tour

  • Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress early morning
  • Afternoon: Do a village tour in Hiriwadunna (bullock cart ride, lake canoeing, village lunch)

Overnight: Sigiriya

🗓️ Day 4 – Dambulla Caves & Minneriya Safari

  • Morning visit to Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Afternoon: Minneriya National Park Safari (ideal for elephant sightings)

Overnight: Sigiriya or Habarana

🗓️ Day 5 – Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

  • Visit the UNESCO site of Polonnaruwa
  • Explore temples, Buddha statues, and ancient ruins by bicycle

Overnight: Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa

🗓️ Day 6 – Travel to Kandy via Matale

  • Stop at Matale Spice Garden and Aluvihara Rock Temple
  • Arrive in Kandy
  • Evening visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and cultural dance show

Overnight: Kandy

🗓️ Day 7 – Explore Kandy

  • Visit Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
  • Walk around Kandy Lake and local market
  • Optional: Visit Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue

Overnight: Kandy

🗓️ Day 8 – Train to Nuwara Eliya

  • Scenic drive or train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Train Station is in now – just few kilometers away from Nuwara-eliya)
  • Visit tea plantations, Gregory Lake, and Victoria Park ( Nearby Pedro Estate is an option – just two kilometers away from the city)
  • Enjoy cool mountain weather

Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

🗓️ Day 9 – Train Ride to Ella

  • Travel from Nanu Oya to Ella by train — one of the most scenic routes in the world
  • Relax and enjoy views in charming Ella

Overnight: Ella

🗓️ Day 10 – Explore Ella

  • Hike Little Adam’s Peak
  • Visit Nine Arches Bridge
  • Optional: Ravana Falls or Ella Rock hike

Overnight: Ella

🗓️ Day 11 – Transfer to South Coast (Mirissa / Unawatuna)

  • Scenic drive through the hills to the south coast (approx. 4–5 hours)
  • Relax at Mirissa or Unawatuna beach

Overnight: Beach resort

🗓️ Day 12 – Galle & Departure

  • Visit Galle Fort – a UNESCO Heritage Site with colonial architecture
  • Explore boutiques, ramparts, lighthouse
  • Transfer to Colombo or directly to the airport (2–2.5 hrs)

Overnight / Departure: Colombo or late-night airport transfer

✅ Summary

RegionKey Highlights
NegomboBeach, seafood, Dutch heritage
Sigiriya/DambullaRock Fortress, caves, village life, safari
PolonnaruwaAncient ruins and history
KandyTemple of the Tooth, botanical gardens
Nuwara EliyaTea country, cool climate
EllaHiking, mountain views, iconic train ride
South CoastBeaches, Galle Fort, relaxed vibe

🚗 Travel Options

  • Private car with driver (most convenient)
  • Trains for scenic segments (Kandy–Nuwara Eliya–Ella)
  • TukTuks for short city trips

How Much is a ‘Tuk Tuk’ Rides in Sri Lanka

Standard Metered TukTuk (Three-Wheeler)

These are commonly available in cities like Colombo, Kandy, Galle, and other urban areas.

  • Base Fare (first kilometer): LKR 100 – 120
  • Per Additional Kilometer: LKR 80 – 100
  • Waiting Time: LKR 2 – 3 per minute

💡 Always ask if the driver is using the meter. If not, negotiate the fare before starting the ride.

🔹 Non-Metered TukTuks / Tourist Areas

In tourist-heavy areas (e.g., Negombo, Ella, Mirissa), some tuk-tuks don’t use meters and charge fixed or negotiated prices.

Here are rough estimates:

  • Short rides (1–2 km): LKR 300 – 500
  • Medium rides (5–10 km): LKR 600 – 1,200
  • Long rides (15+ km): LKR 1,500 – 3,000 or more

🧭 Sample Ride Costs (Approximate)

RouteDistanceEstimated Fare
Colombo Fort to Pettah2 kmLKR 300
Kandy to Peradeniya6 kmLKR 600–800
Ella to Nine Arches Bridge4 kmLKR 500–700
Galle Fort to Unawatuna7 kmLKR 700–900
  • Use ride-hailing apps like PickMe or Uber for transparent pricing.
  • TukTuk drivers in rural areas may not use meters—bargaining is common.
  • Night fares may be slightly higher.
  • Always carry small change.

HOW TO FIND HOTEL ROOMS IN SRI LANKA?

1. Choose Your Destination & Dates

Decide where in Sri Lanka you want to stay (e.g., Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Ella, etc.) and when. Consider:

  • Weather (check monsoon seasons)
  • Festivals or peak travel times
  • Proximity to attractions

🌐 2. Use a Booking Platform or Website

You can book online through global or local platforms:

🔹 International Booking Sites:

🔹 Sri Lankan Booking Sites:

📞 3. Contact Hotels Directly (Optional)

Some smaller or boutique hotels may offer better rates via direct booking. You can:

  • Visit the hotel’s official website
  • Call or email them directly
  • Inquire about discounts or local packages

💳 4. Make a Secure Payment

Most sites offer:

  • Credit/debit card payment
  • Pay at hotel options (available on Booking.com and Agoda)
  • Free cancellation – make sure to read policies carefully

🧾 5. Get Confirmation

After booking, you’ll receive:

  • A booking confirmation email
  • A voucher or booking ID
  • Details about check-in/out, contact info, and directions

📌 Tips for Booking Hotels in Sri Lanka

  • Read reviews on TripAdvisor or Google Maps before confirming
  • Compare prices across 2–3 sites
  • Check if breakfast or airport pickup is included
  • Look for hotels with good hygiene ratings and reliable internet if needed
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