Sri Lanka is a fantastic honeymoon destination for many reasons. For starters, it offers a diverse range of experiences, from pristine beaches and lush forests to ancient ruins and bustling cities. The country's natural beauty is truly breathtaking, with everything from the misty tea plantations of the hill country to the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka is also home to a rich and vibrant culture, with colorful festivals, traditional dance performances, and mouth-watering cuisine that will leave you wanting more. And for honeymooners who want to indulge in a little luxury, Sri Lanka has no shortage of high-end resorts, spas, and restaurants. Perhaps most importantly, Sri Lanka is a relatively compact country, which means you can easily see a lot in a short amount of time. All of these factors make Sri Lanka an ideal honeymoon destination that's sure to create memories to last a lifetime.
Things to do in Sri Lanka on honeymoon
- Visit the beautiful beaches: Sri Lanka has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal clear water and white sand. Some of the best beaches to visit are Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota.
- Explore ancient ruins: Sri Lanka has a rich history, and there are many ancient ruins to explore. The most famous is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Go on a wildlife safari: Sri Lanka is home to many exotic animals such as leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. A wildlife safari is a great way to see these animals in their natural habitat.
- Visit tea plantations: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, and a visit to a tea plantation is a must-do activity. You can learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the finest tea in the world.
- Take a train ride: Sri Lanka has one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. The train journey from Kandy to Ella is a scenic route that takes you through picturesque mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations.
- Visit the Yala National Park: Yala National Park is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, and it is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles.
- Take a hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride is a unique and romantic way to see the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka.
- Enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments: Ayurvedic spa treatments are a must-do activity in Sri Lanka. They are known for their healing properties and can help you relax and rejuvenate.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Sri Lanka on honeymoon. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly people, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for a romantic and memorable honeymoon.
How much does a honeymoon in Sri Lanka cost?
The cost of a honeymoon in Sri Lanka can vary widely depending on the length of the trip, the type of accommodation, and the activities you choose to do. However, here are some general cost estimates to give you an idea:
- Accommodation: You can find a range of accommodation options in Sri Lanka, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. A mid-range hotel can cost around $50-$100 per night, while a luxury hotel can cost $150 or more per night.
- Transportation: Transportation costs in Sri Lanka are relatively low. A taxi from the airport to your hotel can cost around $20-$30, while a tuk-tuk ride can cost around $1-$2 per kilometer.
- Food and drinks: Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and affordable. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around $5-$10 per person, while a meal at a high-end restaurant can cost $20 or more per person. Alcoholic drinks can be more expensive, with a beer costing around $2-$4 and a cocktail costing around $5-$10.
- Activities: The cost of activities in Sri Lanka can vary widely. For example, a wildlife safari in Yala National Park can cost around $30-$50 per person, while a hot air balloon ride can cost $150 or more per person.
Overall, a 10-day honeymoon in Sri Lanka can cost around $1,500-$3,000 per couple for mid-range accommodation and activities. However, you can also spend less or more depending on your preferences and budget. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip ahead of time to get the best deals and make the most of your honeymoon in Sri Lanka.
Accommodation options for a honeymoon in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a variety of accommodation options that cater to different tastes and budgets.
Boutique hotels are a great choice for couples who want an intimate and personalized experience. Sri Lanka has many boutique hotels that offer stylish and luxurious rooms with personalized service. These hotels are often small, which means that you will get a lot of attention from the staff. Some of these hotels are located in historic buildings or colonial mansions, adding to the charm of your honeymoon.
Luxury resorts are a popular option for couples who want a more upscale experience. Sri Lanka has several high-end luxury resorts that offer all-inclusive packages and a range of activities, including spa treatments, water sports, and cultural tours. These resorts often have private villas with stunning ocean views, private pools, and personalized butler service.
Eco-lodges are a great option for couples who want to stay in a sustainable and eco-friendly environment. These lodges are often located in remote and natural areas, with a focus on preserving the environment and local culture. They offer a unique and authentic experience that combines nature, culture, and sustainability.
Villas and holiday homes are a great option for couples who want more privacy and space. Sri Lanka has many stunning villas and holiday homes that offer breathtaking views, private pools, and personalized service. You can choose from a range of villas that vary in size, location, and amenities, ensuring that you find the perfect one for your honeymoon.
Guesthouses and homestays are a budget-friendly option for couples who want a local and authentic experience. These accommodations are often run by local families and offer comfortable and clean rooms with personalized service. Staying in a guesthouse or homestay is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet the friendly Sri Lankan people.
Sri Lankan food to try on your honeymoon
Sri Lanka is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which combines spicy and flavorful ingredients with fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Rice and curry is the staple dish in Sri Lanka and is served in almost every restaurant. It usually consists of a plate of rice, several curries (vegetable, meat or fish), and accompaniments such as papadums, chutneys, and sambols. The curries are usually spicy and flavorful, with a blend of different spices and coconut milk.
Sri Lanka is an island nation surrounded by the ocean, so it's no surprise that seafood is a popular dish. You can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood such as prawns, crabs, fish, and lobster, prepared in a variety of ways such as grilled, steamed, or curried.
Kottu is a popular street food in Sri Lanka made with chopped roti bread, vegetables, and meat (chicken or beef), and flavored with spices and curry sauce. It's usually served with a spicy curry sauce on the side.
Hoppers are a type of pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, which are cooked in a small wok-like pan. They can be eaten plain or filled with an egg or meat and served with sambols or chutneys.
Arrack is a traditional Sri Lankan alcoholic drink made from the sap of coconut flowers. It's often served as a cocktail with soda or mixed with fruit juices.
Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, which is grown in the highlands and exported around the world. You can enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea in a tea plantation, with stunning views of the rolling hills and misty valleys.
Sri Lanka is also known for its tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and bananas. You can enjoy them as a healthy snack or in a fruit salad or smoothie.
Overall, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer in terms of food and drink, and you can enjoy a range of cuisines from local street food to fine dining restaurants. Don't be afraid to try new dishes and flavors, and enjoy the delicious and diverse cuisine that Sri Lanka has to offer.
What are the must-see cultural attractions while on honeymoon in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a country rich in culture and history, with many must-see cultural attractions for honeymooners. Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit:
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-see attraction for any visitor to Sri Lanka. The fortress is located on a towering rock plateau, and it's a fascinating mix of ancient architecture, art, and engineering.
Temple of the Tooth: The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, and it's home to the tooth relic of the Buddha. The temple complex is beautiful and richly decorated, with many shrines, courtyards, and a beautiful lake.
Dambulla Cave Temple: The Dambulla Cave Temple is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see cultural attraction. The temple is located on a hill, and it has five caves filled with beautiful and ancient Buddhist murals and statues.
Galle Fort: The Galle Fort is a beautifully preserved colonial-era fort that has a rich history and beautiful architecture. The fort is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka and is a great place to explore, with many art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops.
Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa: Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are two ancient cities that were once the capitals of Sri Lanka. Both cities have extensive ruins and temples, with fascinating architecture and art. They are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are a must-see for any history buff.
Cultural Shows: Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of dance, music, and theater, and attending a cultural show is a great way to experience the local culture. You can enjoy traditional dance performances, Kandyan drumming, and fire walking, among other things.
Local Markets: Sri Lanka has many vibrant and colorful markets, where you can find a range of local handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce. Visiting a local market is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly Sri Lankan people.
Shopping in Sri Lanka on your honeymoon
Sri Lanka is a great place for shopping, and there are many unique and beautiful items that you can find, ranging from handicrafts to precious gemstones. Here are some of the things you can shop for in Sri Lanka:
Handicrafts: Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of handicrafts, and you can find a range of items such as wood carvings, pottery, textiles, and brassware. Some of the best places to shop for handicrafts are in the cultural triangle, where you can find local artisans making beautiful items.
Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka is famous for its precious gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, and garnets. You can find many gem shops and jewelry stores in cities like Colombo, where you can buy high-quality gemstones and jewelry at competitive prices.
Tea: Sri Lanka is one of the world's largest tea producers, and you can find a range of high-quality teas to buy, from black tea to green tea and herbal blends. Tea shops and tea factories are located in many parts of the country, especially in the highlands.
Spices: Sri Lanka is also known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, and you can find a range of fresh and high-quality spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. Spices are available in many markets and specialty shops, and you can even visit spice plantations to see how they are grown.
Batik: Batik is a traditional Sri Lankan textile art, where wax is used to create patterns on fabric, which is then dyed. You can find many batik shops and factories in Sri Lanka, and you can buy clothing, scarves, and other items with beautiful and unique designs.
Ayurvedic Products: Ayurveda is a traditional form of medicine that originated in Sri Lanka, and you can find many ayurvedic products such as oils, creams, and herbal supplements. Ayurvedic spas and shops are located in many parts of the country, and you can even attend an ayurvedic wellness retreat to learn more about this ancient practice.
What are the best towns and cities to visit while on honeymoon in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is a beautiful and diverse country, with many towns and cities to explore. Here are some of the best towns and cities to visit on your honeymoon:
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka and a great place to start your honeymoon. The city has a rich history and culture, and you can visit attractions such as the National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, and Galle Face Green. There are also many high-end restaurants and shopping malls in Colombo, making it a great place to indulge.
Kandy is a scenic and charming city located in the hill country of Sri Lanka. The city is famous for its beautiful Temple of the Tooth, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 4000 species of plants.
Galle is a historic and picturesque town located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The town is famous for its Dutch fort, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can walk along the ramparts of the fort and enjoy views of the Indian Ocean. Galle is also home to many art galleries and boutique shops, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs.
Ella is a small and charming town located in the hill country of Sri Lanka. The town is famous for its beautiful scenery, which includes lush tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountain views. You can take a scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya, which is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
Mirissa is a small and laid-back town located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The town is famous for its beautiful beaches, where you can swim, surf, or simply relax in the sun. Mirissa is also a great place to go whale watching, as the waters off the coast are home to many species of whales and dolphins.
