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A beauty as flawless as a wallpaper, a charm which is unmatched, and the cultural aesthetics that are so strong is Sri Lanka for us. Many people think of traveling to this stunning destination but rather chose some other destination because of budget constraints. With so many responsibilities and low income, many people drop their plans to visit a foreign country. So, if you are someone who is planning a trip to Sri Lanka without burning a hole in pocket, then go forward to reading this detailed guide which will help you plan a trip to Sri Lanka on a budget.

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka On A Budget

Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka

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In order to get the best deals on hotels, cafes, pubs and other tourist places, it is best to plan a trip to Sri Lanka during the off tourist season which is from May to September. Due to rainfall and humidity in the air, many tourists avoid visiting Sri Lanka during these months and this is when you can grab great discounts and deals on accommodation options and other activities.

5 Places To See In Sri Lanka On A Budget

If traveling is your motto and you are low on budget, then do not worry. A trip to Sri Lanka can be completed on a low budget too with just the right amount of planning. Here is a list of places to visit in Sri Lanka if you have budget constraints.


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1. Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple

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One of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka where yo do not have to pay anything is the Dambulla Cave Temple. Temples are the highlights of Sri Lanka tourism and Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the best temples here. This giant granite cave has around 150 statues of Buddha along with rich Buddhist paintings.

Entry fee: Free

Must Read: Sri Lanka In September: Explore The Eastern And Northern Parts Of This Island Country

2. Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach

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Sri Lanka backpacking on budget is possible due to the presence of many beaches in Sri Lanka, the entry to which is free and also the water sports activities are not highly charged. The beach offers mesmerizing views of the sunset with a stunning coastline of palm trees.

Places to visit nearby: Bentota River, Kasgoda Turtle Hatchery

Suggested Read: Trips To Sri Lanka From India: An Ultimate Guide For A Lovely Vacation

3. Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak

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Another enthralling place to visit in Sri Lanka on a budget is definitely Adam’s Peak. There is no cost of getting to the top. The only cost you pay here is your hard work which will repay you with stunning views of the landscape. There is a flight of around 5500 steps before you reach the top. The climb is a bit tough but definitely worth it.

Entry fee: Free

Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Things To Do In Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia On Your Sri Lankan Vacation

4. Bambarakanda Falls

_Bambarakanda Falls

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Located in Ohiya from a height of about 263 meters, Bambarakanda Falls looks very enchanting and soothing to the senses. The whole area surrounding the waterfalls is very serene, tranquil and covered with lush greenery. One must definitely visit this place for some soul satisfaction experience.

Entry fee: Free

Suggested Read: Dig Into 10 Sri Lankan Street Food Items That Are Pure Delight!

5. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara-Eliya

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Nuwara Eliya is the most happening hill station of Sri Lanka with stunning landscapes, lush green misty valleys, and rugged hills. It is famous for its tea estates and also for its scenic train rides that offers great views of the nature. Make sure to add Nuwara Eliya in your itinerary if planning for Sri Lanka travel on budget 2023.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka in Winter: A Complete Guide To Plan Your Holidays In Cold

Top 3 Budget Hotels in Sri Lanka

With a vast range of accommodation options, it becomes difficult to find out the ones which are budget friendly and with good amenities at the same time. We have jotted down a few of the best budget hotels in Sri Lanka for a comfortable stay.

1. Ocean View Cottage, Hikkaduwa

Ocean View Cottage

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This is a great budget hotel in Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka. With facilities like mini fridge, mosquito nets, and ac or non-ac rooms, this hotel also offers great views from the balcony of rooms. One who stays here gets access to beach, gardens, and swimming pool. Overall, you will have a great experience staying at this cottage in Hikkaduwa.

Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: Let These 12 Sri Lankan Desserts Awaken Your Taste Buds On Your Next Vacay!

2. Ranga’s Beach Hut, Arugam Bay

Ranga’s Beach Hut

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This is one of the best places to stay in Arugam Bay area with stunning views, and mind-boggling facilities. The food they offer is very satisfactory and up to the mark. Cabanas, treehouse cabanas, villas, and the rooms are the accommodation options available at Ranga’s Beach Hut. Their cabanas are made from natural products and hence are very eco-friendly.

Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: 30 Best Beaches In Sri Lanka To Visit That Will Make You Go ‘Wow’!

3. Surfing Life Guesthouse, Madigama

Surfing Life Guesthouse

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A small and cozy area which was once a home and now converted to a small hotel is set amidst a natural green environment. There are no ac rooms here but you won’t feel hot either. It is very budget friendly hotel with great home like feel to it. There is a small garden with a hammock where you can just relax and chill.

Website | Reviews

Tips For Budget Travel to Sri Lanka

We have shortlisted tips for travelers planning to embark on a budget trip to Sri Lanka. Go through them carefully before you set off for your vacation:
  • Make use of public transport for local commuting as far as possible as these are comparatively cheap. Avoid taking taxis which are way too costly.
  • Make the bookings for hotels and major sightseeing places that require entry fee in advance to get good deals and offers.
  • Plan a stay in hostels, guesthouses, and beach side small resorts as they are comparatively cheaper as compared to hotels in cities.
  • For shopping, try to shop from street markets rather than big shops and expensive shopping malls. Not only you will get cheap items but also unique items.
  • Eat at small cafes and street shacks as the food is equally good and there is a lot of difference in price.

Further Read: 22 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya: The Mini London Of Sri Lanka!

For travelers who are perplexed about the thought of how much money do I need to visit Sri Lanka? On a budget trip to Sri Lanka, one needs to carry 1500 to 2000 INR for a day’s expenses in Sri Lanka which is a very decent price for a spectacular country like Sri Lanka. With this detailed guide on Sri Lanka budget travel, we hope you plan your trip to Sri Lanka super soon without thinking of money anymore. Traveling to Sri Lanka on a budget is super easy if you plan wisely and follow the tips given in this blog.

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Category: Places To Visit, Sri Lanka, Things To Do

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