Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay, located on Sri Lanka’s southeast coast, is a laid-back surf town known for its world-class waves, golden beaches, and relaxed island vibe. Popular with surfers from around the globe, it’s home to breaks like Main Point and Peanut Farm. Beyond the waves, Arugam Bay offers lush lagoons, wildlife safaris in nearby Kumana National Park, and a mix of beachside cafés and yoga retreats. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking adventure, nature, and tranquility all in one tropical escape.

Sri Lanka

Asia 2025 Photographic

Before You Go

  • Visa: Most travelers must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. Easy to apply online; valid for 30 days.

  • Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cash is king in many places—carry small notes for tuk-tuks and rural shops.

  • Language: Sinhala and Tamil are official. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  • Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for health, accidents, and cancellations.

  • Vaccines: Routine vaccinations plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid are usually advised.

When to Visit

  • West & South Coast (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa): Best from December to April.

  • East Coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay): Best from May to September.

  • Hill Country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy): Cool year-round, wettest around May–July.

Getting Around

  • Trains: Iconic scenic rides, especially Kandy to Ella—book seats in advance.

  • Tuk-tuks: Cheap and everywhere. Negotiate or use the PickMe app in major cities.

  • Private Driver: Common for longer trips, especially if short on time.

  • Buses: Super budget-friendly, but can be chaotic and uncomfortable.

Where to Go

  • Colombo: The capital—great for food, shopping, and museums.

  • Kandy: Sacred city with the Temple of the Tooth and lake views.

  • Ella: Hill town with waterfalls, tea plantations, and hikes (Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arches Bridge).

  • Sigiriya: Ancient rock fortress and UNESCO site.

  • Galle: Colonial fort town with great cafes, shopping, and coastal charm.

  • Mirissa / Unawatuna: Popular beach towns on the south coast.

  • Arugam Bay: Surf haven on the east coast.

Food & Drink

  • Must-Try Dishes:

    • Rice and curry (with dhal, coconut sambal, veg sides)

    • Hoppers (crispy bowl-shaped pancakes)

    • Kottu roti (stir-fried chopped roti bread)

    • String hoppers

    • Fresh seafood and tropical fruit

  • Spicy Food: Sri Lankan food can be very spicy—ask for mild if needed.

  • Water: Avoid tap water. Drink bottled or filtered only.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or rural areas.

  • Shoes Off: Remove footwear and hats before entering temples.

  • Buddha Images: Treat with high respect. Never turn your back to a Buddha statue for photos. Tattoos of Buddha can be offensive—cover them if you have any.

  • Right Hand Only: Use your right hand for eating or giving/receiving items.

Safety & Health

  • General Safety: Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists. Watch for petty theft in crowded areas.

  • Scams: Be wary of unsolicited “guides” or gem shops pushing you to buy.

  • Wildlife: Don’t feed monkeys. Use certified guides for safaris in Yala or Udawalawe.