April 6, 2025, 2:22 p.m. | Reading time: 7 minutes
This spring our author Nina Ponath was traveling to Sri Lanka. From kitesurfing in the north to Buddhist temples and national parks in the middle to the beautiful beaches in the south, she explored the country. At Sunnytrips she presents her seven personal favorite places.
"Sri Lanka? How beautiful! We've been there before!" – I got this reaction quite often whenever I excitedly told my friends and acquaintances what I had coming up this spring: a trip to Sri Lanka. I had no idea that Sri Lanka was such a popular travel destination. And for good reason: Not only because you can eat what is probably the best curry in the world here and the coconuts come straight from the tree (which is why they are sold as a drink on every street corner), but above all because of the diversity that this country offers.
1. Kitesurfing Lanka – Kalpitiya
2. Sigiriya – the most impressive rock in Sri Lanka
3. Ella – the perfect place to relax
4. Polonnaruwa – the old royal city
5. Yala National Park – on safari in Sri Lanka
6. Circle Sri Lanka and Spirit of Ceylon – a project close to the heart
No matter whether you are looking for pure adrenaline while kite surfing in the north or spiritual peace in ancient temples, see elephants in the national parks or relax on paradisiacal beaches - Sri Lanka really has something to offer for everyone. Added to this is the incredible hospitality of the people: I was repeatedly spontaneously invited for sugary coffee (the rule here is: the more sugar, the better) or given little tips from locals who showed me places that aren't in every travel guide. So it's no wonder that my friends - and now I too - rave about the island state.
If you are currently planning your trip to Sri Lanka, you will find my six personal favorite places here.
1. Kitesurfing Lanka – Kalpitiya
My adventure started in the north of Sri Lanka, in Kalpitiya, the perfect place for anyone who loves kitesurfing! (By the way, I say that even though I didn't surf myself, I just watched my friends do it.) There is reliably strong wind here from December to March, and if there is calm, you can take a boat tour in the morning and watch dolphins.
We stayed at Kitesurfing Lanka Bungalow Camp - a relaxed accommodation that reminded me of the adult version of my teenage surf camp, only more stylish and relaxed. Instead of all-nighters, there were morning yoga sessions, breakfast with a view of the sea and – if you wanted – unobtrusive, friendly conversations with like-minded people. The food was fantastic, and as an animal lover, I was particularly pleased that the three street dogs that live in the complex are not only “tolerated”, but very pampered and loved by the entire team.
2. Sigiriya – the most impressive rock in Sri Lanka
Sigiriya is one of the absolute highlights of the island state and definitely belongs on the bucket list of every Sri Lanka vacationer. The huge rock rises out of the middle of the landscape and is not only a natural wonder, but also an important cultural monument.
We were lucky and didn't have to queue at the entrance - even though it was Saturday. From there you slowly climb through a complex until you reach the rock, to which steep stairs lead. Climbing stairs through which you can sometimes look straight down is not for people with a fear of heights. For everyone else, however, the tour is worth every bead of sweat: once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view! On the way down you pass well-preserved murals called “Cloud Girls” and the remains of an ancient fortress from the 5th century.
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My tip: Be sure to set off early in the morning! Not only because it can get really hot in the midday heat, but also to enjoy the sunrise from above - an absolutely magical moment.
3. Ella – the perfect place to relax
Ella is a small town in the middle of tea plantations and has a very special atmosphere. Anyone who has already completed a few days of touring can relax wonderfully here between waterfalls and mountains.
From here you can hike to Little Adam's Peak, visit the Diyaluma Falls or simply relax in one of the many cozy cafes. I loved drinking my coffee in the morning with a view of the mountains as the fog slowly cleared away. If you prefer something more luxurious, you will also find plenty of yoga retreats and wellness temples here.
Ella is touristy, but still relaxed - the ideal place to reflect on what you've experienced before moving on.
4. Polonnaruwa – the old royal city
Anyone interested in history must see Polonnaruwa! This ancient city was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is now a vast archaeological site with well-preserved ruins.
We took an Uber to the impressive temple ruins - past huge Buddha statues, ancient palaces and hidden shrines. My personal highlight was the Gal Vihara, a group of four huge Buddha statues carved directly into the rock. Here, too, it's worth setting off early in the morning! Then you have the ruins almost to yourself and can enjoy the special atmosphere in peace without the babble of voices and selfie sticks.
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5. Yala National Park – on safari in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the best countries to see wild animals in their natural environment - and Yala National Park is the perfect place to do it.
We saw lots of elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles and countless colorful birds on our tour. If you're lucky, you can even spot leopards on the safari - but we had to be content with the landscape with its open savannahs and dense jungle sections.
6. Circle Sri Lanka and Spirit of Ceylon – a project close to the heart
Located on the hilltop of the famous Diyaluma Waterfall, this ecological luxury villa stands in the middle of tea and spice fields. The villa is part of “Circle Sri Lanka”, a sustainability project that supports locals by paying fair wages and promoting community development.
The Diyaluma Waterfall Villa is a dream place to unwind while supporting a project that includes an orphanage, tea and cinnamon plantations, among others. For anyone who not only wants to consume something while traveling, but also wants to give something back to the very poor population (the average citizen here doesn't even earn 200 euros a month), Circle Sri Lanka is a real insider tip!
Three weeks in Sri Lanka – and I could go on forever with my tips! The mix of breathtaking nature, fascinating culture and warm people makes this country one of the most beautiful travel destinations I have ever visited. And yes: when you tell me about your travel plans for Sri Lanka in the near future, I will definitely be one of the people who says with shining eyes: "Sri Lanka? How beautiful! I've been there before!"
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