Sri Lanka is a popular backpacker destination and known to be really cheap. We gathered a few tips for all the travelers who are really on a budget. We travelled in Sri Lanka for 4 weeks and went all over, from the southern beaches through the cool tea filled central country all the way up to the isolated Jaffna. From there we explored the lesser known east coast all the way to Arugam Bay, from where we ascended again to Ella for some more tea because it’s just so beautiful. For detailed itineraries and tips on specific places, welcome to our blog, but you can already read the saving tips here.
Buses and trains are really cheap in Sri Lanka. For instance, you can drive 2-3 hours by train for just around 1 dollar. Trains connect all the southern beaches with Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. You can ride through the tea country from Kandy to Ella, which is one of the most iconic train rides in the world. You can even reach the northern-most Jaffna by train. On the east coast you will have to rely on buses.
Another advantage of local transport is being in contact with locals and getting to know the country better.
Don’t go to fancy restaurants, eat where the locals eat instead – the curry is so delicious everywhere and we never had any stomach issues. Buy fresh fruit and snacks at local markets and fill up your water at filling stations – they can be found in every city.
The smaller locally run guesthouses are usually also the cheapest. We really enjoyed staying there, as the food was always fresh and prepared with love, and the owners took care of us as if we were their family. And let’s face it – if you’re out exploring the whole day, in the evening you don’t need anything else besides a clean shower and a bed.
Alcohol, including beer, is quite expensive in Sri Lanka. If you really want to save money, ditch alcohol during your visit.
We were quite surprised by the entrance fees to Sigiriya (around 30 dollars). We suggest that you visit the neighboring Pidurangala Rock instead, which (in our opinion) offers a much nicer view and is way cheaper.
If you visit Kandy for the Perahera Festival, don’t buy expensive tourist tickets. Just try to get a good spot on the sidewalk (be aware, you will have to be there very early) among the locals. It helps if you have snacks with you and share them with the locals around you.
A local SIM card will help you while planning and booking, and will save you some time while using Google Maps.
Imagine getting out of the bus and navigating your way to your guest house – almost every tuk-tuk driver will try to take you there, even if it’s relatively near, so he can make some money. But with Google Maps, you know where to go and you can decide whether you’re going to accept their offer or rather walk.
You can buy the SIM card at the airport and as with any other SIM card there are different providers. After doing some research, we decided on Dialog, which is really good, has good coverage and costs only around 9 dollars.
In Sri Lanka, we had some health issues for the first time while traveling. Although medical services were still very reasonably priced, we spent around 120 euros for all the treatments and medications. Luckily, we had travel insurance and were therefore refunded every penny. Imagine being on a tight budget and that you have to spend money on doctors. It can shorten your trip significantly.
Hopefully, we gave you some ideas on how to save money. For more information on Sri Lanka you are kindly invited to our blog or our YouTube channel where vlogs from this beautiful country are waiting for you.
Till next time.
Copyright (©) 2010 - 2024 Youth Hostel | Our Privacy Policy | Cookies | RPC
