The Traveler’s Guide to Backpacking through Sri Lanka

Posted by budgethotelsinsrilanka on December 9th, 2019

Sri Lanka is probably one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world right now. The nation hides quite a few breathtaking sceneries despite its size. If you are feeling a bit adventurous and do not mind traveling till your feet are sore, here is everything that you need to know about exploring Sri Lanka on a budget.

Cost Breakup of a Typical Backpacking Trip through Sri Lanka:

Accommodation – There are some amazing budget hotels in Sri Lanka, most of which are affordable on a backpacker’s budget. Despite the devastation caused by the tragic 2004 tsunami, Sri Lankan architects have chosen to rebuild the hotels right up the shoreline. This offers breathtaking views during sunset and allows amazing candlelit dinners by the Indian Ocean. If you are willing to spend a little more dough you could choose to stay at some of the best luxury villas in Sri Lanka. Budget hotels in Sri Lanka typically charge anywhere between and per night for a room.

Food – While traveling through the Sri Lankan countryside travelers need to remember that restaurants are often an alien concept, and you might have to order your meals in advance. You will also notice that the cuisine is generally a bit more expensive and spicier than other South East Asian countries, but it is worth every penny! Expect to spend anywhere between and for a hearty meal.

Sight Seeing – If you travel long enough, you get used to the exorbitant ‘tourist pricing’. But Sri Lanka takes it to the next level. While the locals pay around 35 cents at some sites, foreigners are required to shell out upwards of . Aside from this minor setback, the ruins and temples are truly a sight to behold.

Tipping – Like most other South East Asian countries, tipping is a common practice here in Sri Lanka. Guests are expected to tip 10% of the billing amount to the waiters, drivers and tour guides. While bell boys and security personnel at tourist sites expect 50 LKR.

A well-planned backpacking trip through Sri Lanka can be successfully completed at a fraction of the cost quoted by travel planners. If you wish to pamper yourself at the end of the trip, there is no better place to splurge than Colombo. Allow your body to rejuvenate at the luxurious Mount Lavinia Hotel. If you are on a tight budget, the guest houses in mount lavinia offer the best of both worlds.