Backpacking in Sri Lanka: Everything you should know and itineraries

Sri Lanka is one of the most underrated countries in Asia. Still, it’s beautiful and raw with endless adventures, making it the perfect backpacker destination.

We have explored Sri Lanka twice, following two different itineraries. From jungles to beaches, we discovered sides of the country we never imagined existed.

This guide to Backpacking in Sri Lanka will help you plan your trip. With insights about budget, possible itineraries, what to pack and where to go, you will be ready for the next adventure in Sri Lanka backpacking.

Why Sri Lanka Should Be Your Next Backpacking Destination

Sri Lanka might be small, but don’t let its size fool you. This island nation is bursting with diversity, offering a smorgasbord of experiences that’ll satisfy even the most adventurous souls.

We’re perched atop Pidurangala Rock, the cool predawn air nipping at our faces as we wait with bated breath. Suddenly, the sky ignites in a riot of oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow over the lush landscape below.

It’s moments like these that make backpacking in Sri Lanka an unforgettable adventure. We hiked Pidurangala twice; as good money-wise travellers, this is the best and cheapest way to have a perfect view of Sigiriya.

We’ve traversed this teardrop-shaped island twice now, and let us tell you, it’s a backpacker’s paradise waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches to mist-covered tea plantations and ancient ruins to wildlife-rich national parks, Sri Lanka packs a punch that’ll leave you yearning for more.

Definitely, it’s a cheap destination in Asia, perfect for backpackers. Also, it’s so easy to navigate, the people are lovely, and the food is just yummy.

Budget-Friendly Paradise

Let’s talk turkey – or should we say, rice and curry? One of the best things about backpacking in Sri Lanka is how wallet-friendly it is.

We’ve found that you can easily get by on $20-30 a day, including accommodation, food, and some activities. It’s like finding a golden ticket in your Wonka bar!

Cultural Riches

From the moment you step foot in Sri Lanka, you’re immersed in a rich tapestry of culture and history. We still get goosebumps thinking about our visit to the White Temple in Kandy, where we witnessed devotees paying homage to Buddha’s sacred tooth relic.

It’s like stepping into a living, breathing history book. If you are exploring Sri Lanka in August don’t miss the unforgettable Esala Perahera, the yearly Kandy Festival.

Natural Wonders Galore

If you’re a nature lover (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), Sri Lanka will make your heart full. The landscape is so natural that it is unmissable for a hike or two while on your trip.

We’ve hiked through misty tea plantations, lounged on golden beaches, and come face-to-trunk with wild elephants on safari. On our last trip, we also had the pleasure of hiking through the thick Jungle in Katusu Konda, one of the best landscapes in the world. Hard, yes, but highly rewarding.

FAQ | Backpackers guide to Sri Lanka

Week 1: Cultural Triangle and Hill Country

• Colombo (1 day): Start in the capital to get your bearings.
• Sigiriya and Pidurangala (2 days): Climb the iconic Lion Rock and catch that unforgettable sunrise we mentioned.
• Kandy (2 days): Explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, including the White Temple.
• Ella (2 days): The backpacker’s hub of Sri Lanka, nestled between mountains and tea fields. Take the famous train ride and hike through tea plantations.

Week 2: Beaches and Wildlife

• Yala National Park (2 days): Go on safari and spot wild elephants.
• Mirissa (2 days): Relax on beautiful beaches and maybe spot some whales.
• Galle (2 days): Wander the charming streets of Galle Fort.
• Negombo (1 day): End your trip with a beach day before flying out.

Backpacking Sri Lanka on a Budget

We know what you’re thinking – this all sounds great, but what about the costs? Sri Lanka is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Asia for backpackers.

From cheap lodging to nice hostels, you can get your money in Sri Lanka. Here are some tips to keep your Sri Lanka backpacking budget in check:

• Stay in hostels or guesthouses: We’ve found some great spots for as little as $5 a night.
• Eat local: Rice and curry will become your best friend. They’re delicious and cost next to nothing. Purchase Bananas and fruit at the local market. Visit them for goods and to snap some photos.
• Use public transport: The trains and buses are an adventure in themselves and super cheap. Tuk Tuk, unless the rest of Asia is cheap and takes you everywhere, but you must bargain before hopping in.
• Be selective with activities: While we’d love to do everything, sometimes you have to pick and choose. The entrance fee to Sigiriya is steep (about $30). However, the frescoes inside are truly mesmerising – we still can’t get over the fact that we weren’t allowed to take photos! Instead, find alternatives if you want to stay on a budget, and hike Pidurangala instead for a fraction of the price.

9 Destinations for Backpackers in Sri Lanka

Ella: A Backpacker’s Haven in the Hills

Nestled in the misty hills of Sri Lanka, Ella is a backpacker’s dream come true. We fell head over heels for this charming town, and here’s why you will, too:

• Nine Arch Bridge: It’s like something out of a storybook. We woke up at dawn to catch the train passing over it – totally worth the early rise!
• Little Adam’s Peak: An easy hike with jaw-dropping views. Perfect for those Instagram shots!
• Ella Rock: For the more adventurous, this hike offers stunning panoramas of the surrounding hills.
• Chill Vibes: The town is full of laid-back cafes and bars. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow backpackers and swap stories.

Pro tip: Stay in one of the many affordable guest houses with views of Ella Gap.

Best places to stay in Ella

Kandy: Cultural Heart of Sri Lanka

Kandy is where history comes alive, and backpackers get a real taste of Sri Lankan culture.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: A must-visit. We were amazed by the devotion of the worshippers.
• Kandy Lake: Take a stroll around it in the evening. It’s a great spot for people-watching.
• Royal Botanical Gardens: A perfect escape from the busy city. Pack a picnic!
• Cultural Shows: Watch traditional Kandyan dances. It’s touristy, but hey, when in Kandy!

Budget tip: Local buses are a cheap way to explore the outskirts of Kandy. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride!

Best places to stay in Kandy

HOSTELS:

Funk Bunk Inn: One of the most fun hostels in Kandy. The price is quite cheap, and with $10, you can have a private double room or even stay as a family. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE!

Kandy BackPacker’s Hostel: This is the most trendy hostel in Kandy, it is often fully booked, so you better act fast. It also offers budget double rooms, and has a fantastic outdoor pool to chill out, and breakfast is included.

HOTELS:

Kandy Rivers Edge Nature Resort: Completely immersed in nature is perfect for couples and families who want to stay away from the crowds, but at a short distance from Kandy town. See the features and availability.

Colombo: Gateway to Sri Lankan Adventures

Many backpackers skip Colombo, but we think it’s worth a day or two:

• Pettah Market: A sensory overload in the best way possible. Haggle for souvenirs here!
• Galle Face Green: Join locals for street food and kite flying at sunset.
• Fort Railway Station: This is one of the busiest railway stations in the world, with over 2 million passengers per day. It was the perfect spot to capture some street photos and locals smiling.
• Mount Lavinia Beach, South of Colombo, is worth a quick escape to the beach from the city hustle.
• Lotus Tower: The symbol of Sri Lankaand its progress. It is one of the highest buildings on the continent and features a rotating restaurant at the very top.

Hostel tip: Stay in Colombo 7 or 10, two of the greenest and most beautiful areas of Colombo. Both are very close to some of the best attractions: the Memorial, Independence Square, Gangaramaya Temple, Lotus Tower, Beira Lake, the promenade, and a short bus or tuk-tuk ride from Pettah Market.

Best places to stay in Colombo

Nuwara Eliya: Little England in Sri Lanka

Welcome to tea country! Nuwara Eliya offers a unique climate and vibe. It is called Little England for a few reasons: It is often grey and cloudy and rains a lot; it’s up in the midst of the valley, produces the finest tea in the world, and the weather is so unpredictable.

We arrived in Nuwara Eliya with the sun and hoped to walk around the lake, but after lunch, our dream was soon over, as it was pouring rain, like at home in the UK. These are some of the best things you can do in Nuwara Eliya:

• Tea Plantations: Take a tour and learn how your cuppa is made. We loved plucking our own leaves, watching locals how fast they are, and going through the entire process from picking to packing.
• Gregory Lake: Rent a swan boat for some cheesy fun.
• Horton Plains National Park: The hike to World’s End is a must-do for nature lovers.
• Victoria Park: Spot some rare bird species or just enjoy a picnic.

Best places to stay in Nuwara Eliya

Best places to stay in Negombo

Udawalawe National Park: Wild Encounters on a Budget

One of the best national parks for wildlife lovers. It isn’t very high priced, but getting a jeep by yourself can add up the daily costs, so if you team up with other backpackers, you might share jeep costs or join one of the options offered by GetYourGuide. At Udawalawe, you must plan to visit the following:

• Elephant Sightings: Almost guaranteed! We saw herds within minutes of entering the park.
• Jeep Safaris: More affordable than Yala and less crowded, too.
• Elephant Transit Home: See rescued baby elephants being fed.
• Bird Watching: A paradise for ornithologists.

Best places to stay near the National Park

Sigiriya: Climb into Ancient History

One of the main sights of Sri Lanka and a symbol of the Lanka Kingdom, Sigiriya is a bit pricey for backpackers but totally worth it. If you stay near Dambulla, you might save money on accommodation, as transportation is about $5 from there.

However, Sigiriya has a vibe and is very backpacker-friendly, with nice restaurants nearby and beautiful views at sunrise. While in Sigiriya, we suggest planning the following activities:

• Lion Rock: Yes, it’s expensive, but those frescoes and the view from the top? Priceless.
• Pidurangala Rock: Our favourite sunrise spot. Cheaper and less crowded than Lion Rock.
• Sigiriya Museum: Great for understanding the site’s history.
• Village Tour: Experience rural Sri Lankan life.

Best places to stay in Sigiriya

Galle: Colonial Charm Meets Beach Bliss

Galle was one of the main highlights of our recent trip to Sri Lanka. We didn’t spend much time there, but it is high on the list of places to return soon. Galle is the ideal hub for backpackers, with a pinch of Westernised colonial style. Looking for what to do in Galle?

• Galle Fort: Wander the ramparts at sunset. Pure magic!
• Dutch Reformed Church: A beautiful piece of colonial architecture.
• Unawatuna Beach: Just a short tuk-tuk ride away for some beach time.
• Maritime Museum: Learn about Galle’s seafaring history.

Best places to stay in Galle

Arugam Bay

Planning an itinerary budget-friendly in a remote destination with beach vibes, surfers, bars and a chill atmosphere? You are talking about Arugam Bay. Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, it is one of the latest trendy spots for backpackers in Asia, still a little unknown.

Some dare to compare it with Bali, at its pristine status 20 years ago, before the boom in tourism. Arugam Bay is wild, but that is what makes it the best destination for backpackers in Sri Lanka. What you can do visiting Arugam Bay:

• Learn how to surf
• Chill in a local bar
• Slow down your Sri Lanka itinerary
• Walk on the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Best places to stay in Arugam Bay

Must-Do Experiences for Backpackers in Sri Lanka

• Ride the Blue Train: The journey from Kandy to Ella is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. An experience in itself that is also very cheap. We hung out the door (carefully!) as we chugged through misty tea plantations. It’s like something straight out of a movie.
• Go on Safari: We’ve done this twice in different national parks, and each time was magical. There’s nothing quite like seeing a herd of wild elephants metres away from your jeep.
• Hike Pidurangala at Sunrise: We’ve done this twice, and we’d do it a hundred more times if we could. The view of Sigiriya Rock as the sun peeks over the horizon is utterly breathtaking.
• Visit a Tea Plantation: We learned the entire process from leaf to cup, and it gave us a whole new appreciation for our morning brew.
• Explore Galle Fort: The guided tour we took through Galle was fascinating. The fort is like a time capsule of colonial architecture with a distinctly Sri Lankan twist.

Connecting with Locals

A special mention of the must-do experiences for backpackers in Sri Lanka is trying to connect and click as much as possible with locals. Sri Lankans are wonderful humans, and we love them all, their passion, smiles and willingness to help you in any situation is one of the strong attractiveness for us to return to every time.

As said, one of the best parts of backpacking in Sri Lanka is the warm hospitality of the locals. We found ourselves invited to impromptu cricket games by the street by kids, taught how to eat with our hands properly (it’s harder than it looks!), and got tea by the side of the street (tea leaves were picked fresh by the side of the small shop).

A particularly memorable experience was our visit to the Tamil community in Jaffna. It opened our eyes to a different side of Sri Lanka and its complex history.

We have also visited a tribe that practises a very old martial art handed down by generations, which we didn’t have a clue existed.

Backpacking Sri Lanka Budget: Making Your Rupees Go Further

One of the best things about backpacking in Sri Lanka is how far your money can stretch. We’ve found that with some smart planning and a few insider tips, you can have an amazing adventure without breaking the bank.

You don’t need to share dorms as often hotels are very cheap, and also private ensuite rooms too. Let’s break down the costs of a Sri Lanka Trip as a backpacker:

Overall daily budget for Sri Lanka

For budget-conscious backpackers, we’ve gotten by on as little as $20-30 per day. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Accommodation: $5-15
• Food: $5-10
• Transportation: $3-5 (Long Transport can get with $10 per day)
• Activities: $5-10 (Must account more for this going on premium activities)

Of course, this can vary depending on your travel style and the activities you choose.

Accommodation

Sri Lanka is a backpacker’s dream when it comes to affordable lodging. We’ve stayed in some great places for next to nothing! In less touristy areas, don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially during the off-season.

• Hostels: Dorm beds can be found for as little as $3-8 per night.
• Guesthouses: Basic double rooms often go for $6-15.
• Homestays: For a more authentic experience, you can find homestays for around $10-20.

Food and Drink

Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and incredibly budget-friendly. Due to taxation and low imports, alcohol can be very pricey in Sri Lanka. Barely any spirit is produced on the island, apart from local beers.

• Local restaurants: A filling of rice and curry can cost as little as $1-3. Make the best use of buffet restaurants. You pay a flat rate and eat as much.
• Street food: Kottu roti, our go-to late-night snack, usually costs around $1-2.
• Western food: If you’re craving home comforts, budget $5-10 for a meal in a touristy restaurant. However, there are not many besides the main tourist spots and hub cities.
• Drinks: A large bottle of water costs about $0.35, while a local beer costs $1-3.

Transportation

Getting around Sri Lanka is an adventure in itself, and it doesn’t have to cost much. Distances might look small on the map, but the narrow roads and uneven and unpaved parts slow down transportation, and a mere 100 Km might take anything between 3 to 4 hours.

• Trains: The famous Kandy to Ella train ride costs just $1-3 for 2nd class.
• Buses: Local buses are incredibly cheap, often less than $0.50 for short journeys. You pay cash on board.
• Tuk-tuks: For short trips, expect to pay $1-3. Always negotiate before getting in, and show exactly the location and the map.
• Scooter rental: It’s hard to drive in Sri Lanka, and apart from the thrilling journey on a tuk-tuk, you can hire a motorbike for $5 to $10 per day. It’s common to find rental places, though.

Activities and Entrance Fees

This is where your budget can really fluctuate, depending on what you want to do.

• Sigiriya: The steep $30 entrance fee is worth it for the frescoes and the view.
• National Parks: Safari entrance fees are around $15, plus jeep hire (split this cost with other travellers).
• Temples: Many are free, while larger ones, like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, charge about $10.
• Surfing: Board rentals are about $5 per hour in places like Arugam Bay.

Money-saving tip: Many natural attractions, like Pidurangala Rock or beaches, are free or have minimal entrance fees.

We had a fantastic massage at our resort stay in Sigiriya, which had a view of the fortress. We could pay by card, which is great. However, ATMs are quite consistent within Sri Lanka.

Additional Budget Considerations

• Visa: An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) costs between $35 and $50, depending on your passport. You can apply online before your trip, and it is valid for six months to one year, single or multi-entry.
• SIM Card: A data package for your entire trip should cost no more than $5-10. Internet coverage in Sri Lanka is good, with 4G assured even in remote areas. If you want peace of mind, purchase an e-sim before your trip. Check this one, which we use frequently.
• Laundry: Most guesthouses, hotels and hostels offer laundry service for $2-3 per kg.

Tips to save money and splurge on activities

It isn’t easy to splurge in Sri Lanka, but if you go high on alcoholic drinks or eat at Westernised places, you can easily get off the rail. However, while it’s possible to backpack Sri Lanka on a shoestring, we recommend budgeting for a few splurges.

Don’t miss activities, you can save money eating at local places and shopping at markets, but you must account on your itinerary for at least one wildlife safari.

Pay for a guide in Galle, Dambulla, or Anuradhapura. The insight will make your trip a source of inspiration. It isn’t pricey, but it can add to a backpacker’s budget. If you want to cut costs, you can cook your own meals at guesthouses, most of them offering outdoor basic kitchens.

Final Budget Tips

• Carry cash: Many places, especially in rural areas, don’t accept cards.
• Use local ATMs. They often offer better rates than currency exchange offices. Our UK banks didn’t charge commissions. You might be asked to exchange in local currency or home currency. Always select “without conversion” as the best option if your bank deals with it.
• Learn basic Sinhala: A few words can go a long way in building rapport and sometimes scoring discounts and smiles.
• Travel during shoulder season: Prices drop significantly, and you’ll have popular spots almost to yourself.

Remember, while it’s great to save money, don’t let it stop you from having incredible experiences. By following these tips, you can enjoy all that Sri Lanka has to offer without constantly worrying about your wallet.

Best Time to Travel Sri Lanka

We have been in Sri Lanka for two distinct periods, right before and after the monsoon season, and the weather was great. We got some rain and storms, but all passed overnight.

Overall, Sri Lanka has two seasons: Monsoon and Dry. However, the geography of the country makes this distinction a little complicated. It’s easy to find nice weather on the coast and very bad rain in the centre.

Nuwara Eliya is called Little England for a reason, after all. If visiting Sri Lanka between November and the beginning of April, head south, as it is the peak season, which gets quite busy. 

If travelling to Sri Lanka from mid-April to September, instead, organise your itinerary through the centre and East Coast. However, bear in mind that it gets very hot and dry.

We had such a great experience going on a safari in Udawalawe National Park in March, as the Elephants were passing through this territory for water and green pastures.

Is Sri Lanka safe for backpackers?

Sri Lanka is one of the safest countries in the world, and we have no fear of exploring it. We were among the first groups of bloggers to visit Sri Lanka in Easter 2019 after the bloody terrorist attack. We actually stayed at the reconstructed Cinnamon Lakeside to report the situation within the country.

At that time, we could see an increased level of security in place, more so when exploring Jaffna in the North, where the first rebellion started. However, five years apart, we found a completely different country, still struggling financially but improved and modernised.

Today, Sri Lanka is safer than ever, and this is mostly because of the gentle humans.

Get travel insurance before travelling to Sri Lanka

You don’t want to ruin your long-planned trip to Sri Lanka for nothing, and having travel insurance can get you A** covered pretty much about everything. We got flights cancelled, missing connections, lost bags and others with perfect, spotless and quick coverage by our insurance.

We use Safetywing, and we actually wrote an interesting guide if you are not confident with travel insurance at all. Read it. SafetyWing gives your plans flexibility, as you don’t have to declare the itinerary or the location. It has an automatic renewal per month, and you can stop at any time with no hidden costs or add-up.

Final Thoughts: Is Sri Lanka a hidden gem for backpackers?

Yes. Unfortunately, Sri Lanka isn’t yet fully on backpackers’ trails, but it will for sure be in the near future. We visited the country twice within 5 years, a pandemic in the middle, and found it deeply changed, still recovering from many traumatic episodes but stronger than ever.

We are very happy to see the coffee scene picking up, with chains and coffee shops ready to welcome not only backpackers but also digital nomads. Our favourite coffee shops were Barista, delicious products, inviting atmosphere and great customer service. As you can understand, backpacking in Sri Lanka is like opening a treasure chest of experiences.

From the moment you land to the second you (reluctantly) leave, you’re in for a whirlwind of adventures, flavours, and memories that’ll last a lifetime. We will definitely go back to Sri Lanka and maybe stay longer than the usual two weeks.