Sri Lanka has long been a backpacker’s paradise — since the days of the Hippie Trail in the ‘60s. This island nation is packed with world class hospitality, stunning landscapes that change at every turn, a vibrant culture, and a hoard of budget friendly experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveller, digital nomad, or a gap year adventurer, this tropical gem offers an abundance of affordable (oftentimes free) activities, from hiking misty mountains to lounging on pristine beaches, that allow for an adventure of a lifetime, without burning a hole in your pocket. This guide to things to do in Sri Lanka for backpackers highlights the best low cost activities, budget accommodations, street food delights, as well as off the beaten path adventures.
Explore Negombo and Colombo on a Budget
Colombo and Negombo are neighbouring cities located just at a distance of 35 kilometers apart from each other. This is where most Sri Lanka backpacking adventures begin, as Negombo is the city where the international airport of Sri Lanka is located and where almost all backpackers (or any kind of travellers) first land. Colombo, on the other hand, is the glittering capital city of Sri Lanka.
While many travellers often overlook the charm of Colombo and Negombo and move on to other destinations, it might be worth exploring these cities, even if it is just for a day, during transit.
Negombo: The Laid-Back Beach Town
- Explore the beaches: While Negombo’s beaches are not the best in the country, the beaches on Pamunugama Road, such as Seththappaduwa and Dungalpitiya Beaches, might especially be worth checking out. Pamunugama Road is built on a strip of land sandwiched between the Indian Ocean on the west and the Negombo Lagoon on the east.
- Visit the fish market: Negombo’s famous fish market, or “Lellama,” is an exciting cultural experience. Travellers can watch local fishermen auction off their fresh catches and soak in the lively atmosphere for free. Fresh catch also makes for a great, cheap gift to bring back to your host for barbecue night. Win win!
- Check out St. Mary’s Church: This historic church, with its Dutch colonial influence, is a must visit for those interested in local heritage. The entry to the church is free of cost, and the intricate ceiling paintings inside are beautiful to look at.
- Take a self guided Dutch Canal tour: The Dutch Canal, a remnant of the colonial era, runs through Negombo and can be explored on foot or by renting a bicycle for a small cost. This historic waterway makes for a beautiful place to spend a morning at.
- Take a boat ride along the Muthurajawela Marsh: Muthuraja Wela is the largest saline coastal peat bog in Sri Lanka. Located south of the Negombo Lagoon, the marsh is a hotspot filled with mangroves, birds, and unique wildlife. An early morning boat ride through this wetland ecosystem can get you up close with its biodiversity, and costs around $12.
Colombo: The Bustling Capital on a Budget
Walk along Galle Face Green – This oceanfront promenade is a great place to enjoy the sea breeze, watch locals fly kites, and sample cheap street food like isso wade (shrimp fritters).
Explore Pettah Market – This chaotic yet fascinating market is perfect for budget travelers looking for souvenirs, spices, and fresh tropical fruits at bargain prices.
Visit Gangaramaya Temple – Located on the Beira Lake, Gangaramaya is one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples. It offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual side for a small entrance fee ($1.50).
Tour Independence Square – A historical landmark with colonial architecture and open green spaces, this area is free to explore and ideal for photography enthusiasts, making it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Colombo!
Rent a Tuktuk: The Ultimate Backpacker Adventure
For backpackers exploring Sri Lanka, renting a tuktuk is one of the best ways to experience the country on their own terms. These three wheeled vehicles, commonly used by locals for transportation, and known as the “poor man’s vehicle”, offer an exciting, flexible, and budget friendly way to travel across the island. With a Sri Lankan driving permit and a bit of courage, you can hit the open road and discover Sri Lanka’s hidden gems at your own pace.
While renting a tuktuk may be a bit more expensive than taking local trains or buses, the flexibility to stop whenever and wherever you want – whether it is an off the beaten path beach or a roadside food stall – it is worth the extra cost.
Renting a tuktuk usually costs $14–$20 per day, depending on the rental duration and company. Fuel costs around $10 per full tank, which can last for up to 140 kilometers, making it quite an economical choice for longer journeys.
Surf and Relax in the South Coast
Sri Lanka’s southern coastline is a haven for budget travellers seeking sun, sand, and surf.
Hikkaduwa: Known for cheap hostels and a relaxed beach vibe, Hikkaduwa is perfect for surfers and party lovers. There is also a burgeoning yoga scene for those who are into the yogi lifestyle.
Weligama: This is the best budget and beginner friendly surf spot in Sri Lanka. Lessons usually start at $12 and board rentals can be as low as $3.50!
Unawatuna and Dalawella: Famous for palm fringed beaches, beachside cafes, and the Instagram famous rope swing.
Mirissa: An affordable whale watching destination with kick ass parties and budget friendly backpacker hostels. Book the whale watching directly on site for the best prices (starting at $40).
Discover the Cultural Triangle on a Budget
The Cultural Triangle, which features iconic religious cities such as Sigirya, Dambulla, Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Pollunaruwa, is rich in history but can also be heavy on the pocket. With a little planning, you can visit these UNESCO World Heritage Sites without breaking the bank.
Sigiriya Rock or Pidurangala Rock: Entry to the Lion Rock at Sigiriya is expensive for non SAARC nations ($35), but the nearby Pidurangala Rock is a more exciting climb, offering equally stunning views for $3.50. In fact, to get the best views and photos of Lion Rock, Pidurangala is the place to be at!
Anuradhapura Ancient City: The official ticket price is $30 with some sites requiring their own entry fees, but backpackers can still explore many sites for free by visiting temples outside the main complex. Renting your own tuktuk is an affordable way to explore the ruins at your own pace.
Dambulla Cave Temple: This is one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive cave temple complexes and an excellent budget attraction at $6.50. You get to see Buddha statues, murals, and ancient carvings inside the five caves, all while enjoying breathtaking hilltop views.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City: While the ticket costs $30, backpackers can share expenses by joining a group tour. Some lesser known ruins and lakes in the area can even be explored without a ticket, such as the rest house group, the Southern Group of ruins including the large statue of King Parakramabahu, Somawathiya Chaitya and Giritale Lake, making it possible to experience the history for free!
Hike Through Hill Country for Free
Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands are a paradise for nature loving backpackers seeking stunning landscapes, cool weather, and incredible hiking trails. While entrance to some hikes can cost an arm and a leg, here are some beautiful ones that are either free or very cheap to enter:
- Adam’s Peak: This popular pilgrimage hike with stunning sunrise views has free entry but requires stamina!
- Little Adam’s Peak, Ella: For those lacking the stamina, Little Adam’s Peak in Ella is the perfect alternative for a sunrise hike. There is no entry fee and it only takes 30 to 40 minutes to get to the top.
- Knuckles Mountain Range: This is a more offbeat choice with less crowds than other popular hiking spots in Sri Lanka, such as Horton Plains National Park. This region offers multiple trails through forests, waterfalls, and tea plantations, most of which are free to enter. Some areas of the park require an entrance ticket which only costs $2.50.
Ride the Scenic Train Routes
One of the most famous budget friendly experiences in Sri Lanka is riding some of the most iconic train routes in the country. The most popular and Instagrammable is the Kandy to Ella train ride. Another one is the Colombo to Galle coastal route, which not many tourists know of, so you get to have a very authentic, local experience with equally stunning views. Train tickets often cost less than a dollar and can be bought from the train station.
If you rent a tuktuk with Tuktukrental and still want to experience Sri Lanka’s trains, we offer transportation of your tuktuk at a small cost from your selected pick up point to your destination.
Read more on: How to use the train when renting a tuktuk
Experience Wildlife Safaris on a Budget
Wildlife safaris, like most parts of the world, can be expensive in Sri Lanka too. However, there are some budget friendly alternatives:
- Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home: Since the $40 entrance ticket + safari costs are usually too much for a backpacker in Sri Lanka, this protected sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants within the national park, might be a better alternative! Entry fee is only $5.
- Maduru Oya National Park: This is one of the cheapest national parks in Sri Lanka with an entry fee of $12. Safari prices are extra and the best deal can be found by negotiating on the spot in towns like Aralaganwila and Mahiyangana. You can expect to spot elephants, crocodiles and a variety of birds including hornbills.
- Bundala National Park: This hidden gem for birdwatching and crocodile spotting is often less crowded than other parks, and is a great alternative to Yala National Park. Entrance fee is $16 plus safari costs which can be negotiated in Tissamaharama.
- Free elephant safari at B35 Elephant Road: If you have not already heard, there is an (almost) certain way to see elephants without paying safari/ national park costs! All you have to do is rent a tuktuk and drive down the B35 road connecting Buttala in the north and Kataragama to the south. Drive with caution!
Go Waterfall Chasing
Sri Lanka isn’t known as “waterfall country” for nothing. It is a true paradise for waterfall chasers, with cascading falls hidden in lush jungles, misty mountains, and remote valleys. Most of these are accessed via a short hike and have free entry.
- Diyaluma Falls: This is Sri Lanka’s second highest waterfall, and possibly the most Instagrammable spot in the country. Diyaluma Falls can be easily accessed via a day trip from Ella and Haputale if you rent a tuktuk. The waterfall features multiple natural infinity pools at different levels, offering epic views over the valley.
- Ravana Falls: Located along the road to Ella, this is one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in Sri Lanka. While it can get crowded, the scenery is stunning, especially during the rainy season when the waterfall is at full force. There’s a small pool at the base where you can take a quick dip.
- Bambarakanda Falls: As the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka at 263 meters, Bambarakanda is an awe inspiring sight. Though a bit off the beaten path in the Badulla District, it’s worth the visit, especially if you have a tuktuk to make things easy.
- Laxapana Falls: Located in the Central Highlands near Nuwara Eliya, Laxapana is one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The 126 meter cascade plunges into a serene pool, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat away from tourist crowds. It is also near the famous Adam’s Peak, making it a great addition to your Sri Lanka backpacking itinerary.
- St. Clair’s Falls: Often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” St. Clair’s Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in the country. Located near Nuwara Eliya, this twin waterfall is easily visible from the main road, making it a great stop if you are renting a tuktuk. You can also see it in passing on the train ride from Kandy to Ella.
Eat Cheap and Delicious Sri Lankan Food
Street food and local eateries in Sri Lanka are a backpacker’s best friend when it comes to food. It is easy to find hygienic, budget friendly meals all throughout Sri Lanka, especially in rice and curry shops serving buffet style meals during lunch and dinner.
Establishments like Hela Bhojun serve cheap, clean food items all across the country. Keep an eye out for them when travelling in Sri Lanka!
Some must try food in Sri Lanka:
- Hoppers: Bowl shaped pancakes often served with egg and spicy sambol (chutney).
- Rice and curry: A cheap and filling meal found at nearly every small restaurant.
- Samosas & Roti: Quick, delicious snacks available at roadside stalls.
Kottu: A street food made of chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, and spices.
- Pani pol (coconut pancakes): Delicate turmeric crepes stuffed with a sweet jaggery and coconut filling.
Volunteer and Work Exchange Opportunities
For budget-conscious long-term travellers, volunteering can help extend your stay affordably. Platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers offer opportunities in hostels, animal shelters, eco farms, and community projects in exchange for free accommodation and meals. Depending on what you are interested in and skilled at, places usually look for musicians, artists, digital marketers, website developers, or just an extra hand for these projects. Both platforms have a yearly subscription of $49 to connect with potential hosts.
FAQs
Yes! Sri Lanka is an excellent destination for backpackers due to its affordability, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. The country offers budget friendly accommodations, cheap public transport, and delicious local street food. The compact size of Sri Lanka also makes it easy to travel between destinations quickly..
Sri Lanka has some incredible backpacking spots. The colonial charm of Galle, the beaches of Mirissa, the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya and the mountains of Ella. For wildlife lovers, Yala and Udawalawe National Parks offer safaris. The east coast, including Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, is great for surfing, scuba diving and relaxation. Jaffna in the north offers a less explored, authentic cultural experience for adventurous backpackers.
Sri Lanka and Bali both offer incredible experiences, but the choice depends on your travel preferences. Sri Lanka is wilder, less touristy, and offers more diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to mountains and safari parks. Bali, on the other hand, has a more developed tourism scene, with trendy cafés, vibrant nightlife, and a strong wellness culture. If you prefer offbeat adventures, ancient history, and wildlife, Sri Lanka is a better choice.
Yes, Sri Lanka is generally safe for backpackers, but travellers should take basic precautions. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so keeping valuables secure is important. Public transport is affordable and widely used, but buses can be chaotic. Locals are friendly and helpful, making it an easy place to navigate. Many women also report Sri Lanka as one of the safest countries they have backpacked to.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on which region you want to explore. For the west and south coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa) and the hill country (Ella, Kandy), the best time is from October to March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. If you are heading east (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee), the best time is from April to September, avoiding the monsoon on the east coast. Shoulder seasons (March, April and September to November) offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
You might also consider downloading the Tuktukrental Travel App. It features offline maps, offbeat recommendations and even helps fellow tuktuk-ers on the road connect for information or just a few post drive beers – or the local Sri Lankan arrack if you are feeling adventurous!
