Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
Travelling abroad is no longer a luxury. With some preparation, students and working adults can now afford to visit new countries without breaking the bank. Sri Lanka tops the list as a perfect destination for a fulfilling international budget trip, offering a rich combination of culture, soundness, natural beauty, and earnest hospitality in the cheapest way possible. But how?
Book tickets in advance
One of the most effective ways to cut travel costs is to book air tickets three to four months before the trip. It can save at least 10,000 BDT on a round trip.
For example, a traveller who recently visited Sri Lanka secured a round ticket for 34,000 BDT in January, while the exact ticket cost 47,000 BDT just a day before departure in March.
Travel in a group
Visiting with a group can significantly reduce costs. Hiring a car for the entire trip saves your time and stops the hassle of dealing with local transport providers. Local drivers serve as guides without payment.
Book accommodation through websites or apps
Travel websites and mobile apps are beneficial for finding affordable and suitable accommodation. These platforms offer good deals, reviews, and location details that are both budget-friendly and close to the main attractions.
Picking hostels over hotels is a smart way to minimize accommodation costs. Hostels are widely available in tourist areas for basic comforts. Many hostels provide shared dorms, common kitchens, and social spaces, making them ideal for solo travellers or groups looking to save money. Prices can be as low as 300 to 800 BDT per night, which is incredibly cheaper than standard hotel rooms.
Reasons to visit Sri Lanka: easy and hassle-free visa process
Sri Lanka has launched a smooth and efficient Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, making the visa process quite convenient for travellers.
There's no need to wait weeks for paperwork; tourists can apply online and receive their visa approval within 20 minutes. The process costs only 2,550 BDT (approximately USD 25), and the approved ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days in the country.
Rich cultural heritage
Sri Lanka is home to ancient characters like Ravana and King Kashyapa. The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, is located near Sigiriya and enriches the thirst of cultural minds.
A heaven for the Tea Lovers
Sri Lanka is known for its world-famous Ceylon tea. At Oak Ray Tea Bush in Ramboda, visitors can participate in the whole process of tea making, from plucking the tea leaves to packaging.
They arrange a tasting session with ten types of tea in a beautifully designed tasting room with glass walls, large French windows, and decks overlooking cascading waterfalls and lush mountains.
Just a few miles away lies the expansive Damro Tea Estate, which covers over 5,000 hectares. This estate offers a stunning view enhanced by misty breezes and a deep waterfall.
Variety of weather in a single trip
Different cities offer a distinctive mix of climates in a single trip. Cities like Sigiriya, Kandy, and Ella have bright, sunny, yet mild weather.
In contrast, Nuwara Eliya brings a cool 15-16°C chill, while coastal areas like Bentota offer grey skies with sudden tropical showers.
Climbing, hiking, zip lining, or surfing-which do you want to add to your adventure list? Sri Lanka is a dream for thrill-seekers.
Experience the sunset from Pidurangala Rock when it paints the sky in vibrant tints or the first light of Lion Rock when dawn breaks over the horizon, unveiling a breathtaking sight after climbing 1230 stairs.
Architectural legacy
The island's architecture blends Buddhist calmness with South Indian brilliance, Dutch colonial grace, and modern minimalism, reflecting its layered history.
The most integrated part is that they have renovated these years-old structures that aim to preserve but haven't changed much of the architectural soul.
Culinary wanders
You can call Sri Lanka a land of Spices. They add coconut almost in every meal. Also, you will see the charisma of how they turn red chilli into a sweet fry paste.
At first, Kottu resembles fried rice but tastes like beef. Sri Lankan cuisine tells stories of colonial fusion, influenced by Indian, Arab, Malay, and European flavours.
Sri Lanka narrates a very different story from mountain to beach. It was a trip with no horns, no pollution, no garbage, and no one to judge. Instead, it is a chance to get to know different countries' people in a serene environment.
tunazzinazahan@gmail.com