April 10, 2025, 3:06 pm | Read time: 6 minutes
This spring, our author, Nina Ponath, was traveling in Sri Lanka. From kitesurfing in the north to Buddhist temples and national parks in the center to the beautiful beaches in the south, she explored the country. At TRAVELBOOK, she presents her seven personal favorite places.
“Sri Lanka? How beautiful! We’ve been there before!” — I got this reaction quite often whenever I told my friends and acquaintances, full of anticipation, what was coming up for me this spring: a trip to Sri Lanka. I hadn’t even realized before that Sri Lanka is such a popular destination. And for good reason: not only because you can probably eat 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 here), but above all because of the diversity that this country offers.
Overview
Whether you are looking for pure adrenaline while kitesurfing in the north or spiritual tranquillity in ancient temples, want to see elephants in the national parks, or relax on paradisiacal beaches — Sri Lanka really has something for everyone. Then there is the incredible hospitality of the people: Time and again, I was spontaneously invited for a 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’re in the process of planning your trip to Sri Lanka, here are my six personal favorites.
1. Kitesurfing Lanka – Kalpitiya
My adventure began in the north of Sri Lanka, in Kalpitiya, the perfect place for anyone who loves kitesurfing! (I say that even though I didn’t even kitesurf myself, I just watched my friends do it). There is reliably strong wind here from December to March, and if there is no wind, you can take a boat trip in the morning and watch dolphins.
We stayed at the Kitesurfing Lanka bungalow camp — a relaxed accommodation that reminded me of the adult version of my teenage surf camp, only more stylish and laid-back. Instead of all-nighters, there were yoga sessions in the morning, breakfast with a view of the sea, and — if you wanted — unobtrusive, nice 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 are also spoiled 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 mighty rock towers in the middle of the landscape is a natural wonder and an important cultural monument.
We were lucky and didn’t have to queue at the entrance — even though it was Saturday. From there, you climb slowly through a complex until you reach the rock to which steep steps lead. The climb up the steps, which at times allow you to 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 are rewarded with a breathtaking view! On the way down, you will come across well-preserved murals, the so-called “cloud girls,” and the remains of an ancient fortress from the 5th century.
My tip: Make sure you set off early in the morning! Not only because it can get really hot around midday but also to enjoy the sunrise from above — an absolutely magical moment.
3. Ella — the Perfect Place to Relax
Ella is a small town surrounded by tea plantations and has a very special atmosphere. If you have already spent a few days on a round trip, you can relax here between waterfalls and mountains.
From here, you can hike to Little Adam’s Peak, visit the Diyaluma waterfalls, or simply relax in one of the many cozy cafés. I loved drinking my coffee in the morning with a view of the mountains as the fog slowly lifted. For those who like it more luxurious, there are also plenty of yoga retreats and wellness temples here.
Ella is touristy but still relaxed — the ideal place to reflect on your experiences before moving on.
4. Polonnaruwa — the Old Royal City
Anyone interested in history must have seen Polonnaruwa! This ancient city was once the capital of Sri Lanka and is now a huge 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 giant 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 and quiet, without the noise of voices and selfie sticks.
5th 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 so.
We saw lots of elephants, water buffalo, crocodiles, and countless colorful birds on our tour. If you’re lucky, you might even spot leopards on the safari — but we had to make do with the landscape with its open savannahs and dense jungle sections.
9 good reasons to travel to Sri Lanka
What Sri Lanka’s north has to offer
Why Ubud Was the Berlin of Bali for Me
6th Circle Sri Lanka and Spirit of Ceylon — a Project Close to Our Hearts
Situated on the hilltop of the famous Diyaluma waterfall, this ecological luxury villa is surrounded by 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 villa at the Diyaluma waterfall is a dreamy place where you can find peace and quiet while supporting a project that includes an orphanage and tea and cinnamon plantations. Circle Sri Lanka is a real hidden gem for anyone who not only wants to consume while traveling, but also give something back to the very poor population (the average person here earns less than 200 euros a month)!
Three weeks in Sri Lanka — and I could go on and on with my tips! The mixture 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’m sure I’ll be one of those people who will say with shining eyes: “Sri Lanka? How beautiful! I’ve been there too!”