25 Photos That Will Inspire You to Visit Sri Lanka with Intrepid

Rainforests. Beaches. Ruins. Temples. Tea. Surf. Trains.
So many reasons to visit the idyllic island nation of Sri Lanka.

But why simply list the reasons when we could show you picture proof that this destination deserves a place at the very top of your bucket list? In this instance, ‘picture proof’ comes in the form of some lovely shots from photographer extraordinaire Ryan Bolton who embarked on Intrepid’s 8-day Simply Sri Lanka trip just a while back.

We think he did a great job capturing the fun of the trip, the beauty of the country, and the magic of an adventure with Intrepid. Give the photo essay a browse, and apologies in advance if the temptation to book gets a little too unbearable…

1. Day 1: Negombo

   Close to the capital and hearteningly near the waterfront, Negombo is a great first stop in Sri Lanka. Enjoy one of many beach bars and restaurants, and get settled in.

   

   Arriving into Negombo

   

   The fish market in Negombo

2. Day 2: Dambulla

   Time for action! Drive to the town of Dambulla and visit either a wildlife reserve (hello, wild elephants!) or the nearby Dambulla Caves. Whichever option you pick is bound to be a winner.

   

   The Dambulla Caves

   

   Monkeys in Dambulla

3. Day 3: Sigiraya, Kandy

   Because you can’t visit Sri Lanka without ogling at the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya. Ensure you wear good shoes because the hike is steep but OH SO WORTH IT.

   

   Hiking to Sigiriya

   

   Happy at the top

   

   Endless views

   When you’ve taken photos aplenty, it’s time for the next stop: Kandy. To experience the best of the city, be sure to visit the Temple of the Tooth (the country’s most important Buddhist site) and enjoy a dance and drumming performance.

   

   Lovely Kandy

   

   At Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth

   

   A cultural performance in Kandy

4. Day 4: Nuwara Eliya

   Lakes, markets, citadels and nature walks, there’s so much to do in and around Kandy. But if you’re looking for even more adventure, try a day trip to Nuwara Eliya. The only thing better than the train journey there is the colonial charm and British tea culture you’ll be immersed in upon arrival.

   

   The train to Nuwara Eliya

   

   Lush landscapes aplenty

   

   Learning about the tea growing industry

   

   Enjoying tea in Nuwara Eliya

   

   Nuwara Eliya views

5. Day 5: Unawatuna

   Ready to relax? Unawatuna is made for unwinding in style. Try your hand at surfing, then reward yourself with a drink (or three) in one of many local restaurants and bars.

   

   Coastal bliss in Unawatuna

   

   Group surf lesson

   

   Taking it slow in Unawatuna

6. Day 6: Unawatuna

   Relax on the beach – all day, if you please. Or pop to nearby Galle for Dutch colonial architecture and a bunch of boutique shops. Back in Unawatuna, maybe it’s time for a group meal and cocktail session?

   

   Tuk tuk in Unawatuna

   

   Tropical vibes

   

   Drinks with the Intrepid group in Unawatuna

7. Day 7: Colombo

   Take the train to Sri Lanka’s capital, hit the shops, embrace the street food, and make the most of your last night. The tour might be coming to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime.

   

   A market in Colombo

   

   A cooking class in Colombo

8. Day 8: Colombo

   Although it’s time to say bye to your new best buds, there’s always room in any itinerary for last-day sightseeing. Consider visiting Gangaramaya Temple or taking a day trip with Intrepid’s sister company, Urban Adventures.

   

   Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo

   

   Farewell, Colombo

Inspired to go on this epic adventure? Check out Intrepid’s Simply Sri Lanka tour and array of other tours in Sri Lanka.