What to See - Driving in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-see/ Find out everything you need to know about driving in Sri Lanka from getting your permit to where to rent a car and tips & tricks for Sri Lankan roads. Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:49:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-driving-sri-lanka-favicon-32x32.png What to See - Driving in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-see/ 32 32 Unveiling the Beauty of The Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-see/mountains-hill-country/unveiling-the-beauty-of-the-pekoe-trail-in-sri-lanka/ Wed, 07 Feb 2024 13:17:15 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=657 Sri Lanka's tea culture stands as a testament to the nation's rich heritage and natural beauty. Nestled within the verdant landscapes of this island nation lies The Pekoe Trail, a journey that intertwines the history, culture, and scenic splendour of Sri Lanka's tea plantations. As a haven for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, The Pekoe Trail offers a captivating exploration of one of the world's most renowned tea regions.

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Sri Lanka’s tea culture stands as a testament to the nation’s rich heritage and natural beauty. The Pekoe Trail, a journey that intertwines the history, culture, and scenic splendour of Sri Lanka’s tea plantations. As a haven for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, The Pekoe Trail offers a captivating exploration of one of the world’s most renowned tea regions, which earned it’s place in the NatGeo’s Top 20 Coolest Travel Adventures for 2024, as well as won the Best Tourism Project at the BGTW International Tourism Awards 2023.

The Origin of The Pekoe Trail

Sri Lanka’s tea industry traces its roots back to the 19th century when British planters introduced tea cultivation to the island. The Pekoe Trail was conceived by adventurer Miguel Cunat, who spent several years exploring the central highlands of Sri Lanka. His expertise was honed with generous support and funding from the European Union (EU), along with additional backing from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The Pekoe Trail, represents a curated experience that celebrates the time-honored traditions of tea production in Sri Lanka. It serves as a tribute to the pioneers who transformed the island’s landscape into a tapestry of emerald-green tea estates.

The Scenic Beauty

Embark on a journey through rolling hills adorned with meticulously manicured tea bushes. The Pekoe Trail offers a visual feast for the senses, with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Wander along winding pathways that meander through lush plantations, where each turn reveals a new tableau of natural splendour. From mist-shrouded valleys to sun-kissed ridges, the landscape of The Pekoe Trail captivates at every turn.

Tea Cultivation Process

Delve into the intricate art of tea cultivation as practiced along The Pekoe Trail. From the tender plucking of tea leaves to the meticulous crafting of each batch, witness the labor of love that goes into every cup of Ceylon tea. Learn about the nuances of terroir and climate that influence the flavor profiles of Sri Lanka’s teas, and gain insight into the sustainable farming practices that ensure the longevity of this cherished industry.

Tea Tasting Experience

Indulge your palate in a sensory journey through the diverse flavors of Sri Lankan tea. The Pekoe Trail offers immersive tea-tasting sessions that showcase the depth and complexity of Ceylon’s finest brews. From delicate white teas to robust black varieties, discover the nuances that distinguish each cup. Engage with knowledgeable tea experts who guide you through the subtle nuances of aroma, taste, and texture, allowing you to appreciate tea in all its glory.

Cultural Immersion

Beyond its natural beauty, The Pekoe Trail provides a window into the vibrant culture and heritage of Sri Lanka’s tea country. Interact with local tea plantation workers whose hospitality and warmth welcome visitors into their world. Gain insight into the customs and traditions that have shaped generations of tea growers, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life amidst the tea estates.

Planning Your Visit

For those eager to embark on The Pekoe Trail, careful planning ensures a seamless and enriching experience. Consider visiting during the dry season from January to April, when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor exploration. Several tour operators offer guided excursions along The Pekoe Trail, providing insights and logistical support for travellers. Accommodations ranging from boutique guesthouses to luxury tea bungalows offer a tranquil retreat amidst the tea gardens, allowing visitors to unwind and savour the serenity of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Consider the convenience of a rental car for the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for the scenic routes, and plan your journey during the dry season for optimal weather conditions.

As the sun sets over the emerald hills of The Pekoe Trail, reflect on the unique tea journey you’ve experienced with the added freedom of a car. From the flexibility to explore diverse landscapes to the convenience of tailoring your itinerary, Malkey Rent-A-Car enhances your adventure, turning it into a personalised exploration of Sri Lanka’s tea country.

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Along the Historical Pathways of Colombo https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-do/arts-culture/along-the-historical-pathways-of-colombo/ Mon, 23 Aug 2021 07:23:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=483 If you have some time to spend in Colombo while visiting Sri Lanka, may we recommend that you explore the historical locations in this city. Including, but not limited to local museums. So take a trip along the historical pathways of Colombo and prepare to be amazed.

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If you have some time to spend in Colombo while visiting Sri Lanka, may we recommend that you explore the historical locations in this city. Including, but not limited to local museums. So take a trip along the historical pathways of Colombo and prepare to be amazed.

Let’s start off at the National Museum located on Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 7. This large white building is a sight to behold and a feat of architecture worth exploring for itself. Inside, you’ll see rare remnants from ancient kingdoms all the way through to Colonial occupation and even some recent history. For those interested in fauna and flora from the bygone days, you’ll find that the Museum of Natural History is conveniently housed on the same leafy green premises.

Our second stop would be the National Postal Museum on W A D Ramanayake Mawatha, Colombo 10. It’s a special treat for Philately enthusiasts as this museum showcases many rare stamps and postal industry artefacts.While you are in Colombo 10 neighbourhood, you could stop at Hotel Buhari for their legendary biryani and Masala Chicken.

A short drive from here will bring you to the Dutch Period Museum located on Prince Street in Pettah, right at the heart of Colombo. Don’t let the bustle daunt you and instead focus on the colorful surroundings, sights and sounds of this busy part of the city. At this Governor’s residence converted into a museum you’ll find a comprehensive history of the Dutch occupation of Sri Lanka and a peek into the culture that has stayed alive among local communities. While you are here in Pettah, don’t forget to take a trek along the bazaar on Main Street and grab some piping hot samosas at any of the little eateries along the way.

Also, on the Second Cross Street in Pettah, you’ll see a unique and strikingly beautiful Mosque known to the locals as the Red Mosque, but in fact is red and white stripes like a candy cane. Jami Ul-Afar, was built in the early 1900s and remains one of the oldest and most revered mosques in the country.

From here we head to the Old Parliament Building in the Colombo Fort area, now housing the Presidential Secretariat. This beautiful old building is a sight to behold with its Baroque-style architecture and well-manicured lawns.

Finally, let’s circle back to Colombo 7, where the monument of National Independence stands in all its glory with it’s majestic stone lion guards. Independence Square, as it’s known to the locals, signifies Sri Lankas’ freedom from British Colonial rule in 1948 and is a peaceful space surrounded by green lawns, shady trees and walking/cycling tracks. A museum in the basement of the main structure provides information on the efforts of freedom fighters to gain independence.

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Safe Driving on Mountain Roads https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-see/mountains-hill-country/safe-driving-on-mountain-roads/ Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:51:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=465 If you are going to be traveling through the beautiful hill country of Sri Lanka, you can look forward to the stunning vistas of green tea estates and hot cups of tea at the many tea centers along the way. Planning for a safe drive begins with ensuring that the vehicle you rent for mountain travel is in good condition for steep inclines and downhill drives. Here are some tips for safe driving on mountain roads.

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If you are going to be traveling through the beautiful hill country of Sri Lanka, you can look forward to the stunning vistas of green tea estates and hot cups of tea at the many tea centers along the way. Many of the roads in these areas are in excellent conditions but it’s always a good idea to refresh your memory for safe driving on mountain roads. Planning for a safe drive begins with ensuring that the vehicle you rent for mountain travel is in good condition for steep inclines and downhill drives. Here are some tips for safe driving on mountain roads

  • Make sure your brakes are working well. Renting from a reputable car rental company such as Malkey Rent-A-Car is advised, to ensure that proper checks have been done on your vehicle.
  • Stay on your side of the road, allowing extra space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, ready for any sudden stops.
  • Watch the speed limits, and look out for signs that warn you about road conditions like sharp bends, steep inclines and landslides ahead. Sri Lankan roads will have road signage indicating all necessary warnings.
  • Keep an eye out for pedestrians and animals, especially at night.
  • Make sure that you have sufficient fuel if you’re traveling through remote areas.
  • Turn your lights on if driving in foggy conditions but do pull over in a safe spot away from the road if your visibility is significantly compromised.
  • Overtake slow traffic only if you have a clear view of the road ahead. Do not overtake on a blind curve or when your visibility is compromised.
  • If you’re stopping to admire the view at high lookout points, make sure to use your parking brakes and you can further secure the car by wedging rocks behind your tyres if required.
  • Shift to a lower gear as you go downhill to reduce the need to constantly step on brakes. Pull over and check your brakes if you get a burning smell, allowing your vehicle some time to cool off before you restart your journey.
  • Use maps & navigation assistance if you are traveling through unfamiliar areas and unmarked roads. Sri Lankan locals are usually very friendly and helpful and most will be able to provide guidance if you stop for directions.

If you are looking for more information, please check out What is it like to drive in Sri Lanka? and Roadside Assistance in Sri Lanka.

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Ecotourism in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/travelling-in-sri-lanka/ecotourism-in-sri-lanka/ Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:02:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=455 Ecotourism in Sri Lanka is fast gaining popularity and as a part of this experience, your holiday will be transformed into a learning experience while enjoying the ultimate beauty of nature. When you choose to travel this way you will be expected to be more conscious of the environment and ensure that every activity you engage in has minimal impact on the environment.

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What to Expect From Ecotourism in Sri Lanka?

Ecotourism in Sri Lanka is fast gaining popularity and as a part of this experience, your holiday will be transformed into a learning experience while enjoying the ultimate beauty of nature. Ecotourism specializes in small groups and immersion into field knowledge. When you choose to travel this way you will be expected to be more conscious of the environment and ensure that every activity you engage in has minimal impact on the environment.

What are the Different Types of Eco-Tourism Available in SL?

As we move away from conventional traveling, Sri Lanka is a great place to learn an authentic culture and adventure tour to explore the magnificent outside natural world. There are a number of different types of eco-tourism experiences available in Sri Lanka. Some of them are,

  • Rainforest exploration
  • Hiking
  • Wildlife Safaris
  • Bird Watching
  • Staying with a local family in a Home-Stay
  • Rural Village Walks
  • Farming and Agro Tourism
  • Staying in Eco-Lodges
  • Staying with the Indigenous Tribe

Popular Locations for Ecotourism Experiences in SL?

Sri Lanka as a country is blessed with unparalleled natural resources, wildlife, unique cultural heritage, and warm and friendly citizens. Starting from coastal areas right up to the hill mountains, there are plenty of exciting eco and adventure destinations to choose. There is something novel to explore at each and every destination you visit.

Sinharaja Rainforest is an ideal example to experience the incredible diversity of flora and fauna landscapes, climates, etc. It is a world heritage site and major ecotourism destination, which has Sri Lanka’s endemic species found nowhere else in the world.

The Bundala National Park, situated in the Southern Province, close to Hambantota was declared as a wildlife sanctuary and also considered the most important birding destination in Sri Lanka. This park is home to thousands of migratory birds, some long-distance migrants flying all the way from Euro to Asian destinations to winter in the park.

The Knuckles mountain range is another major Ecotourism venue in Sri Lanka and it has been declared a conservation area, now known as the Knuckles National Heritage And Wilderness Area. It is a real paradise for those who love to hike or cycle. You’ll find yourself traveling across clear rivers, past flowing waterfalls and lush tea plantations, and alongside green paddy fields.

If you are interested in finding out more check out our Forests and Reserves in Sri Lanka Post as well as as our Bird Watching in Sri Lanka Post.

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Yoga in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-do/spirituality/yoga-in-sri-lanka/ Mon, 26 Jul 2021 04:36:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=439 Sri Lanka has been gaining popularity for Yoga tourism in recent years, although the practice of Yoga itself has been entrenched in Sri Lankan culture for many centuries. Yoga in Sri Lanka can be a healing and rewarding experience for travellers who wish to escape into the calm even for a short period. Home to some of the best Yoga retreats and instructors, Sri Lanka presents a holistic offering of Yoga, meditation, Ayurveda and overall wellness.

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Sri Lanka has been gaining popularity for Yoga tourism in recent years, although the practice of Yoga itself has been entrenched in Sri Lankan culture for many centuries. Yoga in Sri Lanka can be a healing and rewarding experience for travellers who wish to escape into the calm even for a short period. Home to some of the best Yoga retreats and instructors, Sri Lanka presents a holistic offering of Yoga, meditation, Ayurveda and overall wellness.

What Can You Expect?

True to local culture, most Sri Lankan Yoga retreats maintain a relaxed atmosphere and offer plenty of flexibility in terms of intensity and duration. Most instructors will be happy to work with each individual to create a plan that works for all levels of expertise, from beginners to more advanced experiences. All types of yoga are available in Sri Lanka, from Vinyasa to Pranayama, Hatha Yoga to Yin Yoga, Kundalini to Kriya. These sessions are available for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels.

Combined Experiences

The beauty of most Sri Lankan Yoga retreats is that they combine yoga with other local activities depending on the area. Locations in Southern Sri Lanka will often offer surfing lessons along with Yoga lessons. Ayurvedic therapy, meal guidance, cooking lessons and meditation are some valuable experiences commonly offered alongside Yoga in Sri Lanka.

Where to go

If you are looking for a Yoga experience that also brings you closer to the ocean, we recommend choosing a retreat in the South of Sri Lanka. The Talalla Retreat is a popular choice offering luxury accommodation and a premium Yoga and fitness experience.

The Salty Pelican Yoga & Surf Retreat in Hiriketiya provides a stunning location for Yoga and surfing on one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.

The Polwaththa Retreat in Kandy is a location hidden away in the mountains and offers a jungle Yoga experience along with activities such as reforestation and cooking classes.

The Prana Lounge in Colombo is equally popular if you are looking for a Yoga experience closer to the city. They offer Yoga sessions with highly qualified instructors as well as other wellness experiences and even teacher training for those with aspirations of becoming instructors themselves.

If you are interested in Yoga, regardless of your level of practise, Yoga in Sri Lanka will provide you with many opportunities to learn and expand your skill.

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Ceylon Tea Experiences https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-do/gastronomy/ceylon-tea-experiences/ Mon, 19 Jul 2021 04:03:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=436 A journey through Hill Country, which is surrounded by a thousand shades of green tea estates, is an unforgettable sight one could experience when travelling around Sri Lanka. So, if you’re keen on exploring tea culture, here are some Ceylon tea experiences you should not miss.

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A journey through Hill Country, which is surrounded by a thousand shades of green tea estates, is an unforgettable sight one could experience when travelling around Sri Lanka.

Being the fourth largest tea manufacturer in the world, ‘tea’ has become an increasingly popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. So, if you’re keen on exploring tea culture, here are some Ceylon tea experiences you should not miss.

Types of tea

The central highlands of Sri Lanka have the perfect environment for growing the best-quality tea. Depending on the different amounts of processing that the leaf undergoes, the differing types of tea are produced.There are many kinds of tea that you can try out in Sri Lanka. The main types of tea are Black, Green and White. Each of these teas have their unique fragrance and taste.

Black Tea

Black tea is the most popular form of Ceylon tea. Black tea is made with hand-plucked tea leaves by expert female tea pluckers. Black tea undertakes an amount of processing which gives its unique black leaves. The tea has a reddish or orangish hue when prepared. A cup of black tea with milk and sugar is a staple for any occasion. It has a deep and satisfying aroma.

Green Tea

Green tea is another well-known category of Ceylon tea. Green tea undergoes less processing compared to black tea even though it comes from the same kind of plant. When processing Green tea, the leaves are unfermented to maintain their antioxidant characteristics. Green tea is famous the world over for its health benefits that include its weight loss properties as well as improved brain function, diabetes prevention, and heart health. When the tea is prepared it takes on a light yellow to greenish touch. The taste of green tea is a mix of sweet bitterness.

White Tea

White tea is a unique type of Ceylon tea. The harvesting process is what makes it special. White tea is made only with tea buds. These buds are not fermented at all and are hand-rolled individually. White tea is the only type of tea that is handmade so that the prices are quite expensive. The colour of the White tea is subtle and light. It has less caffeine and more antioxidants than Green or Black tea. This makes White tea one of the healthiest beverages. This tea is also a favourite of tea connoisseurs the world over White tea is also called “Silver Tips” and “Golden Tips”.

Low-grown Tea

Low-grown tea produced relatively near the coast in the ‘Sabaragamuwa’ and ‘Southern’ regions of Sri Lanka. The tea has grown in an area nourished by high humidity and monsoon season and surrounded by diverse wildlife. The aroma however, is prominently different from the other variations. Low-grown green tea has its own flavour of sweet caramel, and is not quite as strong as that of high and medium grown.

Tea Estates to Visit

Visiting a tea factory in Sri Lanka enables you to see, smell, taste and touch the tea at every stage of the production process, and get an understanding of different types of teas. Most tours will end in a tasting session of the different varieties grown at the plantation. Nuwara Eliya, one of the gorgeous cities in the Hill Country, is the heart of the Sri Lankan tea industry. Read our article on popular destinations Nuwara Eliya. The Blue Field Tea Factory at Ramboda offers comprehensive tours detailing the entire tea manufacturing process, and a variety of different teas are available to purchase. Heading South towards Nuwara Eliya, At the Damro Labookellie Tea Centre, you can tour, by walking through the plantations, or just stop for a refreshing cup of tea. Additionally, you can have the chance to buy freshly plucked leaves from the estate.Further south, Dambatenne Tea Factory outside the town of Haputale offers enjoyable tours explaining the production process and is just a short way off to Lipton’s Seat where you can enjoy panoramic views of the historic plantations.

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A Day in Galle: What To Do https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-do/arts-culture/a-day-in-galle-what-to-do/ Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:02:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=431 So you’ve got one day to spend in Galle and are wondering what to do? Let’s start by saying, one day isn’t nearly enough to take in everything that this city has to offer, but it’s time enough to absorb enough to thrill you and convince you to come back. Shared here are some activities that you could cover in a day in Galle.

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So you’ve got one day to spend in Galle and are wondering what to do? Let’s start by saying, one day isn’t nearly enough to take in everything that this city has to offer, but it’s time enough to absorb enough to thrill you and convince you to come back.

The journey to Galle can be made via the Southern Highway or you could opt for the more scenic route via Galle Road, a coastal road stretching from Colombo to Galle, flanked by the Indian ocean on one side. You could take public transport in the form of a bus or train or choose to rent a vehicle, which is recommended if you are on limited time. Shared here are some activities that you could cover in a day in Galle.

Explore the Galle Fort

Naturally, this should be the first thing on your list, walking or cycling around are both good options. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galle Fort was built by the Portugese in the 16th century and later strengthened during the Dutch invasion of Sri Lanka. The Fort has since been linked to many historic events including the Siege of Galle in 1640. Currently, it preserves the historical beauty, but has also evolved into being the epi-center of culture in Galle. Inside this maze of quaint cobblestone paths are a countless number of cafes, restaurants, galleries and jewellery shops. You could easily spend an entire day here hopping from gallery to museum to cafe and also witness a stunning sunset from the edge of the ramparts.

Visit Rumassala Hill / Jungle Beach

Roughly 8 kilometers south of the center of Galle is the bay of Unawatuna with the Rumassala hill rising above the beach, covered in lush foliage. At the bottom of this hill you will find Jungle Beach, named after the thick groves of greenery nearby and at the peak of this hill is a beautiful white Peace Pagoda built by a travelling Japanese monk. Dip into the cool waters of the Indian Ocean for a refreshing swim or enjoy the view of multi-colored fishing boats from the golden beach. All types of restaurants and bars dot the entire length of the beach around here. Try some incomparably fresh seafood and sip a cold one as you enjoy the balmy unawatuna breeze.

Sea Turtle Hatchery, Mahamodara

The vibrant blue-green waters surrounding the island of Sri Lanka is home to all kinds of marine life including all five species of sea turtles. These turtles visit the sandy shores to lay their eggs, of which unfortunately most don’t survive unless actively protected. Hatcheries such as the one found in Mahamodara function with the objective of conserving the eggs laid by collecting and incubating and finally releasing the hatchlings to the ocean. For locals and tourists who wish to experience the process, the hatchery provides an opportunity to get closer to these rare species. However, as you will be briefed by the officials, extreme care should be taken when engaging with baby turtles while you are there.

Any combination of the above activities and many many more await you in the city of beautiful Galle. With a little bit of planning, you will no doubt make some of your best memories here.

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Post Pandemic Travel Trends https://drivinginsrilanka.com/travelling-in-sri-lanka/post-pandemic-travel-trends/ Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:58:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=427 While it’s encouraging to see travel ads popping up on our social media feeds once more, the question remains, how will post pandemic travel differ from travel as we used to it. These 3 post pandemic travel trends are expected to change the way we travel at least in the foreseeable future.

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With global vaccination rates on the rise, travellers around the world are hopeful and excited for international travel to resume. After nearly 2 years of being cooped up in a never ending staycation of sorts, we are all raring to go on holiday somewhere, anywhere. While it’s encouraging to see travel ads popping up on our social media feeds once more, the question remains, how will post pandemic travel differ from travel as we used to it. These 3 post pandemic travel trends are expected to change the way we travel at least in the foreseeable future.

Vaccination-Led Travel

COVID-19 Vaccination rates will certainly determine the desirability of a destination, while countries with largely vaccinated populations will attract more tourists according to the Trip Advisor Travel Trends Report in 2021. Being vaccinated themselves will also give travelers the confidence to venture out once again. Success of the widespread vaccination program makes Sri Lanka a potential holiday destination for those wanting to enjoy some tropical warmth.

Relationship-Oriented Travel

Having been deprived of contact with families and friends over the duration of the pandemic, travelers are more likely to make trips to visit relatives and friends they have not seen for a while. This also includes a rise in group travel, where large groups of friends and family will take trips together to a common destination to spend quality time together. This trend in turn will set off the popularity of resorts with group accommodation options and rental of large vehicles suitable for group travel and also make travelers demand more facilities when travelling with children.

Outdoor Leisure Focus

With the fear of COVID outbreaks on everyone’s mind, a spike in leisure activities set in wide open spaces and outdoors is expected. What better place to practise social distancing than the great outdoors? Think wide open beaches, nature reserves and mountain hikes. Sri Lanka has always been primed for adventure and wildlife travel since long before the pandemic and presents many travel and exploration opportunities from organized trails to renting the perfect off-road vehicle.

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3 Safe Destinations to Visit in Sri Lanka Post-COVID https://drivinginsrilanka.com/what-to-see/nature-forests/3-safe-destinations-to-visit-in-sri-lanka-post-covid/ Mon, 07 Jun 2021 18:13:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=399 Sri Lanka presents a variety of destinations to choose from depending on the type of traveler you are. However, in the post-COVID era, safety regulations need to be kept in mind and this condition is bound to govern your itinerary to a great extent. But never fear, Sri Lanka is able to offer wide open urban spaces, deserted beaches and green-hued forests and mountains unpolluted by crowds.

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Sri Lanka presents a variety of destinations to choose from depending on the type of traveler you are. However, in the post-COVID era, safety regulations need to be kept in mind and this condition is bound to govern your itinerary to a great extent. But never fear, Sri Lanka is able to offer wide open urban spaces, deserted beaches and green-hued forests and mountains unpolluted by crowds.

The beautiful Nilaveli beach in Trincomalee, with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and corals seen by the naked eye while you swim, snorkel or dive. Stretching long and wide, the sheer size of this beach makes social distancing easily achievable. The beach and waves at Nilaveli are at their best in July/August. While you are here, don’t forget to explore the many islands in the vicinity including Pigeon Island, popular for snorkeling and glorious underwater sights.

Next on our list is the beautiful, misty Knuckles Mountain Range, fittingly named so as these similarly proportioned mountains resemble the knuckles on a fist. Staying in the area is a beautiful experience with stunning views. There are waterfalls to visit along with a Mini World’s End on the south side and“Hulang Kapolla” in Riverston is a windy gap that also draws travelers. which can be visited depending on the time of year. This chilly part of the country is popular among hikers, but depending on the level of experience of each person, it is recommended that you take a guide along these trails. In terms of COVID safety, these areas are not too densely populated and visitors can maintain safe distance from each other in the great expanse this mountain range offers.

A visit to the deep green jungles of Sri Lanka is an experience that could transport you to a realm far removed from civilization, and more importantly safe from COVID. The Sinharaja Rainforest is designated a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO which is open to visitors. This place is teeming with wildlife of different varieties and it is one of the only remaining virgin forests left in the world. It is an awe-inspiring experience with nature which can be enjoyed by youth and adults alike. A few hours away from the central hub of Colombo, Sinharaja Forest can be experienced as a day trip or a longer excursion by staying within or closer to this reserve.

As you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka, be assured that the best parts of your travel could be far away from pandemic-related fears. Don’t hesitate to be adventurous with your itinerary and prepare to be enthralled by what this little island has to offer.

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Roadside Assistance in Sri Lanka https://drivinginsrilanka.com/travelling-in-sri-lanka/roadside-assistance-in-sri-lanka/ Sun, 23 May 2021 20:46:00 +0000 https://drivinginsrilanka.com/?p=402 Driving in Sri Lanka is not only a pleasant experience, but also an extremely safe one and roadside assistance is something you will most likely never have to worry about. Should you ever need roadside assistance of any kind while you are traveling in Sri Lanka, there are a number of formal and informal means of obtaining help.

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Driving in Sri Lanka is not only a pleasant experience, but also an extremely safe one and roadside assistance is something you will most likely never have to worry about.

Sri Lankans by nature are genuinely warm and friendly and are known for their exceptional hospitality often extended towards visitors. Should you ever need roadside assistance of any kind while you are traveling in Sri Lanka, there are a number of formal and informal means of obtaining help.

You can check on the availability of roadside assistance as part of your rental agreement or if your rental company recommends any assistance options. Older, more established car rental companies like Malkey Rent A Car are tied up with a network of auto shops (also known as garages in Sri lanka) for roadside assistance. They also retain a team available for 24/7/365 roadside assistance, across the island. Going with a rental company providing roadside assistance as a value added service can certainly go a long way in giving you that peace of mind as you set off on your journey.

If you are a member of the Automobile Association, you will have access to their emergency breakdown services that include varied mechanical services and even a towing service.

Each town you pass through in Sri Lanka will offer basic mechanical services including tyre repairs, which is the most common reason for needing roadside assistance.

If the assistance you require is navigational help, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that most Sri Lankans speak some amount of English. Locals are able to give you directions to your destination and perhaps even suggest some interesting sights to spot on the way.

There are state hospitals in every district as well as smaller private hospitals and numerous clinics if you require any medical assistance.

Read our post on what it’s like to drive in Sri Lanka for more tips and look forward to your journey as much as your destination!

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