Sri Lanka was an absolute dream! I had no idea it would be so stunning—its natural beauty truly exceeded my expectations. During my month-long stay, I encountered nothing but warmth and kindness from locals, and there wasn’t a single moment where I felt uneasy. One standout memory was getting lost in a small village on a motorbike. Instead of feeling stressed, I found myself embraced by the community—people waved, smiled, and those enjoying the cool breeze in their gardens greeted me so warmly. It was magical.
The homestays, in particular, stole my heart. Sri Lankan hospitality is beyond compare, and staying with locals made me feel cared for in such a personal way. The beaches? Utterly mesmerizing! That mix of turquoise waters and soft sand is what paradise looks like. If you ever visit, take the time to adjust to the rhythm of the country—let the climate, the food, and the culture sink in. It was a joy to spend a full month there, immersing all my senses.
During my trip, I stayed in six different locations, each offering its own unique charm. Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing about the experience, except maybe to extend my stay. There’s something magical about spending enough time in one place to develop a routine, and that’s exactly what I found in Sri Lanka.
Recommendations
Negombo I started and ended my journey in Negombo. After a long flight, Jetwing Blue was the perfect spot to recover. It’s right on the beach, and the spa treatments are heavenly. For dinner, try Lords Restaurant—a cozy spot where the seafood is fresh, and the flavors are vibrant.
Dambulla Heritage Dambulla Resort made my stay unforgettable. The peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the Dambulla Cave Temple are ideal for unwinding. Be sure to visit Roy’s Villa in Sigiriya for a local cooking class—you’ll learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes, and the views of the countryside are unbeatable.
Kandy Kandy is vibrant, but I’d suggest 1-2 nights. Stay at The Radh Hotel, which offers both luxury and a central location. For a true Sri Lankan culinary experience, Sharon Inn serves a traditional buffet that will blow your mind.
Ella Oh, Ella! I could have stayed here forever. If you’re into nature and hiking, this is your place. 98 Acres Resort & Spa provides a serene escape with views that will make your heart soar. For dining, don’t miss Café Chill. The atmosphere is relaxed, and their roti is something else. I also loved the Ravana Pool Club for a day of relaxation; the VIP deck is well worth it.
Nuwara Eliya Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya has a charm all its own. I stayed at the Grand Hotel, a colonial gem, and their afternoon tea was a delightful experience. The Hill Club is another great spot for traditional Sri Lankan meals in a historic setting.
Tangalle & Hiriketiya Tangalle was blissfully peaceful. Anantara Peace Haven was a highlight, offering beachfront luxury and incredible service. In Hiriketiya, I loved staying at Jasper House, which felt like an intimate retreat. For meals, La Playa in Hiriketiya serves amazing seafood with stunning ocean views.
Mirissa While I wasn’t a big fan of Mirissa due to how touristy it felt, Mirissa Hills Resort was a lovely place to unwind. If you do visit, I recommend dining at Dewmini Roti Shop—authentic, delicious, and reasonably priced.
Overall, Sri Lanka’s diversity—from its serene beaches to lush hills and ancient temples—blew me away. Despite hearing misconceptions about the country, it’s now one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. For transportation, we used Uber, PickMe, and pre-booked tuk-tuks, which made navigating easy and stress-free. If you’re planning a trip, give yourself enough time to soak it all in—this island deserves it.