North Western Province Travel Guide
A comprehensive guide for traveling to North Western Province in Sri Lanka, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and local culture and customs.
- Introduction to North Western Province
- List of Places to Visit in North Western Province
- Hiking/Biking Routes of North Western Province
- Best Things to Do in North Western Province: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for North Western Province
- Food and Drink Scene of North Western Province
- Where to Stay in North Western Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Luxury Hotels
- Mid-Range Hotels
- Budget Guesthouses
- What to Buy in North Western Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of North Western Province
- Best Time to Visit North Western Province
- Do’s and Don’ts of North Western Province
- Safety and Health
- Getting to North Western Province: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in North Western Province
- Where to Go Next from North Western Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Colombo
- Conclusion
Introduction to North Western Province
Located in the northwestern region of Sri Lanka, the North Western Province is a place studded with abundant natural beauty, cultural festivals, and thriving tourist landmarks. This province is the perfect blend of unspoiled natural beauty and ancient history, and is considered one of the most fascinating regions in the country.
List of Places to Visit in North Western Province
North Western Province is filled with must-see attractions that highlight its cultural and historical significance, as well as its breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit in the area:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is one of the greatest and most intriguing cities not only in Sri Lanka but in the world due to its historical importance. It was the Sri Lankan capital for around 1,400 years, from the 4th century BC till the 11th century AD, when the capital was moved to Pollonnaruwa. It is now a World Heritage site, containing some of the most ancient and well-preserved monuments of Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya Rock
Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Sri Lanka that is situated in the heart of the island between the towns of Dambulla and Habarane. It is a stunning medieval fortress that built as a palace in the fifth century AD. The site is also known for its exquisite frescoes and admiring views of surrounding landscapes.
Natural Attractions of North Western Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Wilpattu National Park
The Wilpattu National Park is one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka, famous for its varied wildlife and beautiful landscape. It is a perfect place for a safari ride where you would witness elephants, sambar deer, wild boar, sloth bears, and many more species.
Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya is a surreal town that’s situated at the tip of the northwest in Sri Lanka, offering a stunning blend of lagoons, beaches, and serene natural landscapes. It is the ideal place to have a relaxing vacation filled with water activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and dolphin or whale watching.
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Western Province
The North Western Province has an abundance of hiking and biking trails within its stunning natural landscapes. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:
Bathalegoda Hiking Path
This is a challenging 9.2 km trek that takes you through creeks, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery of paddy fields and forested hills. It’s an excellent route for bird watching as well.
Kurunegala Cycling Trail
This 11 km long route takes you through Kurunegala, an ancient city with a rich history. You will witness the beautiful scenery, old forts, ancient temples, and historical landmarks.
Best Things to Do in North Western Province: Activities and Tours
From visiting ancient pagodas, going on a safari adventure, relaxing at the edge of the beach, to experiencing traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, North Western Province has something for everyone. Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy:
Cultural Tour of Anuradhapura
The Cultural Tour of Anuradhapura is an excellent way to experience the ancient capital’s wonders. You will learn about the different kingdoms that ruled the land and witness the grandeur of their architectural skills embedded in various monuments.
Wilpattu National Park Safari
Going on a jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park is an excellent way to experience the diverse wildlife of the area. You will have the opportunity to encounter wildlife like crocodiles, elephants, and many species of birds.
Week-Long Itinerary for North Western Province
If you have one week to explore North Western Province, here is the suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Anuradhapura, visit Sri Maha Bodhi, Isurumuniya Temple |
| 2 | Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and visit Dambulla Caves |
| 3 | Visit Ritigala Forest Monastery and go on a jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park |
| 4 | Visit Panduwasnuwara and Yapahuwa to explore ancient ruins and immerse in the history |
| 5 | Visit Kalpitiya beach, go whale watching, and enjoy water sports activities |
| 6 | Explore North Western Sri Lanka’s rural village life and small towns like Puttalam |
| 7 | Go on a bird watching tour in Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary and leave for Colombo |
Food and Drink Scene of North Western Province
North Western Province has plenty to offer when it comes to food and drink.
Must-Try Dishes
Parippu
Parippu is a staple food in Sri Lanka that’s made with dal or lentils, prepared with coconut milk, and various spices.
Milk Rice
Milk rice, also known as Kiribath, is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made with rice cooked in coconut milk. It’s often consumed at special occasions like New Year’s Eve.
Local Beverages
Tea
Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, grown in plantations around the country. The North Western Province has its tea estates that offer some of the best tea varieties in the world.
Toddy
Toddy is a local drink extracted from coconut trees. It is a popular drink in the North Western Province that has a unique taste similar to beer.
Where to Stay in North Western Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Here is a list of recommended accommodations in North Western Province:
Luxury Hotels
Ulagalla by Uga Escapes
This hotel offers a serene atmosphere in the middle of paddy fields and forests. It’s an eco-friendly hotel with luxurious amenities and modern decor.
Mid-Range Hotels
Galkadawala Forest Lodge
This eco-lodge offers beautiful views of the forest and beautiful lakes. It’s a perfect getaway to unwind, relax and enjoy nature.
Budget Guesthouses
Sundaras Resort & Spa
Sundaras Resort & Spa is a budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean rooms and amenities in a prime location in the area.
What to Buy in North Western Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
North Western Province offers an abundance of souvenirs, local products, and handicrafts that make for excellent gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best items to buy in North Western Province:
Handloom Products
North Western Province offers beautiful handloom products made with locally produced materials like cotton and silk.
Surrounded Crafts
The area is also known for its traditional wooden crafts and carvings, making for beautiful souvenirs to bring back home.
Local Culture and Customs of North Western Province
North Western Province has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are warm and friendly. Sri Lankan culture is known for its hospitality, and visitors are always warmly welcomed.
Best Time to Visit North Western Province
The best time to visit North Western Province is between December and March, when the weather is cooler and dryer. These months offer ideal conditions to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the area’s natural beauty.
Do’s and Don’ts of North Western Province
Do:
- Respect the culture and customs of the locals.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
- Carry your credentials while traveling.
Don’t:
- Do not dress inappropriately while visiting ancient temples and other religious landmarks.
- Do not ignore local guidelines and regulations.
- Do not litter.
Safety and Health
Safety in North Western Province
North Western Province is a relatively safe place to visit, but it’s always better to stay alert in crowded areas and keep your belongings safe.
Health in North Western Province
Visitors are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites as the region is prone to diseases like Dengue fever and Malaria. It is also recommended to carry sunscreens and stay hydrated during the travel.
Getting to North Western Province: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near North Western Province
The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, which is situated in Colombo, roughly 120 km away. Visitors can either hire a taxi or travel by bus from airport to the provinces.
Bus Stations Near North Western Province
Visitors can take intercity buses from Colombo to reach places within North Western Province.
Other Options
Visitors can travel around the province via tuk-tuks, taxis, and rented scooters.
How to Get Around in North Western Province
Traveling in North Western Province is relatively easy, with public transportation options readily available. Visitors can use tuk-tuks or rented vehicles to get around at a reasonable cost.
Where to Go Next from North Western Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Colombo
Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and the perfect place to experience modern Sri Lankan culture. It is a blend of old colonial architecture and modern buildings, coupled with excellent dining and shopping experiences.
Conclusion
The North Western Province of Sri Lanka is a fascinating destination that combines culture, history, and natural beauty offering something for everyone. From ancient ruins to exotic wildlife, North Western Province is a must-visit location for those fascinated with culture, adventure, and natural beauty.