Central Province Travel Guide

Discover Central Province in Sri Lanka, its must-visit places, cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations and more.


Introduction to Central Province

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Central Province is a region rich in culture, nature and history. It is home to the most magnificent cities with grand temples and ancient relics, as well as some of the most picturesque locations in the country.

If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, Central Province in Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for you. Here is a comprehensive tour guide to help you explore the best of Central Province and experience its unique charm.

List of Places to Visit in Central Province

Central Province is full of surprises, with plenty of places to keep you entertained and awestruck. Here are some of the top places to visit in Central Province.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Central Province is a region soaked in history and culture, and there are many museums and historical places worth visiting.

  1. Temple of the Tooth: Located in Kandy, this temple is one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world, believed to house one of the Buddha’s teeth.
  2. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient fortress is perched atop a towering rock and features stunning frescoes and rock carvings.
  3. Dambulla Cave Temple: A meditation site since the 3rd century BCE, this temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with five caves and 157 statues of Buddha.

Natural Attractions of Central Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Central Province is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery Sri Lanka has to offer. From picturesque waterfalls to stunning mountain ranges, there’s plenty to explore.

  1. Adam’s Peak: A pilgrimage site for people of all faiths, Adam’s Peak offers spectacular views over Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
  2. Knuckles Mountain Range: This picturesque mountain range offers some of the best trekking routes in Sri Lanka, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Ramboda Falls: These twin falls are a sight to behold and offer a refreshing break from the tropical heat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Province

For adventure enthusiasts, Central Province offers several hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience.

Here are three fantastic routes to explore:

  1. Bambarakiri Ella Trail: A scenic trek and one of the longest in Sri Lanka, the trail covers 16 kilometers in the Knuckles Range.
  2. Hantana Trail: A moderate hike that takes you through dense forests, tea plantations, and rural villages to reach the summit of Hantana Mountain.
  3. Meemure Trail: For the more experienced hiker looking for a challenge, this 21-kilometer trail takes you through dense jungles and small villages, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Central Province: Activities and Tours

Central Province has something for all types of travelers - whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker.

Here are some of the best things to do in Central Province:

  1. Visit Kandy Esala Perahera: A 10-day festival of music and dance in Kandy that takes place in July/August and honors the sacred tooth relic.
  2. Go white water rafting: A thrilling adventure that takes you down the rapids of the Kelani River, surrounded by stunning tropical scenery.
  3. Take a scenic train journey: The train ride from Kandy to Ella is one of the most beautiful in the world, offering some breathtaking views of the Sri Lankan countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Province

For those planning a trip to Central Province, here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kandy and visit the Temple of the Tooth and the Kandy Lake. Day 2: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Day 3: Go on a safari in Minneriya National Park. Day 4: Head to Nuwara Eliya and spend a day exploring the tea estates and nearby waterfalls. Day 5: Hike through the Knuckles Mountain Range. Day 6: Take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella. Day 7: Spend the day in Ella, which has much to offer in terms of natural beauty and historical significance.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Province

The food and drink scene in Central Province has something for everyone, from delicious curries to fresh fruits.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kottu Roti: A popular street food made with chopped up roti, vegetables, egg, and meat or fish.
  2. Pittu: A steamed cylinder made of rice flour and coconut shavings, often served with curry or pol sambol (coconut relish).
  3. Watalappam: A traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with jaggery, coconut milk, cashews, and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Ceylon Tea: Known worldwide for its unique flavor, Sri Lankan tea is a must-try.
  2. Arrack: A local distilled spirit made from coconut flower sap, often served with soda or ginger beer.
  3. King coconut water: A refreshing drink made from the water of young coconuts, sold at roadside stalls all over Central Province.

Where to Stay in Central Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Province has accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, there are plenty of options.

Here are three of the best places to stay:

  1. The Grand Kandyan Hotel: A 5-star luxury hotel with an infinity pool and stunning views of Kandy Lake.
  2. The Purple Gate Residencies: A budget-friendly, family-run guesthouse in Kandy with comfortable rooms and an excellent location.
  3. The Tea Cottage: A charming bungalow-style hotel located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya’s tea plantations.

What to Buy in Central Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Central Province has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to take home, from tea to handmade crafts.

Here are some of the best things to buy:

  1. Ceylon Tea: Take home some loose leaf or tea bags to enjoy and share with friends and family.
  2. Batiks: Handmade batiks are a traditional Sri Lankan art form, and make for beautiful wall hangings or clothing.
  3. Handicrafts: Wooden crafts, pottery, and handmade textiles make for unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Province

Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, and many customs and traditions revolve around Buddhist festivals and practices.

Here are some essential customs and etiquette to keep in mind:

  1. Dress modestly: When visiting temples and other religious sites, it’s essential to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and legs.
  2. Remove shoes: When entering temples or private homes, it’s customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
  3. Use the right hand: It’s customary to use your right hand for shaking hands, eating, and giving or receiving gifts.

Best Time to Visit Central Province

The best time to visit Central Province is from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season runs from May to September, while the northeastern monsoon occurs from November to January.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Province

To ensure an enjoyable and safe trip to Central Province, here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  1. Do carry cash: Many places do not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
  2. Do dress appropriately: When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and remove your shoes before entering.
  3. Do try local food: Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and full of flavor, so be sure to sample some of the local dishes.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t touch Buddhas or prayer flags: As a sign of respect, it’s essential not to touch any sacred objects in temples or monasteries.
  2. Don’t take photos without permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.
  3. Don’t litter: Be respectful of the environment and dispose of trash properly.

Safety and Health

Sri Lanka is a safe country to visit, but it’s always essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Safety in Central Province

  1. Be aware of your surroundings: Pickpocketing and petty theft are still possible in crowded areas.
  2. Don’t travel alone at night: Stick to well-lit, busy areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  3. Watch out for scams: Be wary of scams involving tuk-tuk drivers or people offering tours or services - always research and book through reputable companies.

Health in Central Province

  1. Stay hydrated: The climate in Central Province can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  2. Protect yourself from mosquitoes: Sri Lanka is a malaria-prone country, so it’s essential to wear mosquito repellent and cover up at dusk and dawn.
  3. Be cautious with street food: Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled water to avoid any stomach issues.

Getting to Central Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central Province is well-connected to the rest of Sri Lanka, with several options for transportation.

Airports Near Central Province

  1. Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo is the main international airport in Sri Lanka and is located roughly three hours from Kandy.
  2. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is the second international airport in Sri Lanka and is located approximately three hours from Tangalle.

Bus Stations Near Central Province

  1. Kandy Bus Station: The main bus station in Kandy, which connects to several other cities and towns in Sri Lanka.
  2. Nuwara Eliya Bus Station: The main bus station in Nuwara Eliya, which connects to several other cities and towns.

Other Options

  1. Train: There are several train routes that connect Kandy and Nuwara Eliya to other cities and towns in Sri Lanka.
  2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available for hire in Sri Lanka, and there are several reliable taxi services in Central Province.

How to Get Around in Central Province

Central Province is a relatively small region, and getting around is relatively easy. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

  1. Tuk-tuk: A three-wheeled taxi that is ubiquitous in Sri Lanka, tuk-tuks are an affordable way to travel short distances.
  2. Bus: Sri Lanka has a well-connected network of buses, and it’s an affordable option for long-distance travel.
  3. Train: Sri Lanka’s train routes offer some of the most scenic journeys in the world, and it’s an excellent way to travel between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

Where to Go Next from Central Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central Province is ideally located for several exciting excursions and nearby destinations. Here are some fantastic options:

  1. Yala National Park: A popular national park known for its abundant wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
  2. Arugam Bay: An idyllic beach town on Sri Lanka’s east coast, known for its world-class surf breaks.
  3. Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating colonial history and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, explore Sri Lanka’s rich culture, or embark on a thrilling adventure, Central Province offers something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has given you some inspiration and ideas to help you plan your trip to this incredible region.

Devon Falls close to Talawakele Devon Falls close to Talawakele Landscape in Knuckles Mountain Range Landscape in Knuckles Mountain Range


    Dambulla
    Horton Plains
    Matale