Arcade Independent Square

(shopping mall)/Colombo

From stylish cafes and restaurants to takeaway places where you can casually grab a snack

From the outside, it’s hard to believe it’s a shopping mall; inside is a beautiful colonial-style white building, which also houses stylish Sri Lankan brands of clothing and accessories. There are also attractive restaurants and cafes, but it’s also popular among locals to get takeout from bread, curry, and fresh juice shops and casually dine at a table in the shade of the trees while looking out at the building.

Ministry of Crab

(Restaurant)/Colombo

A famous seafood restaurant located in the Dutch Hospital shopping mall

The most popular crab dish is a combination of crab and sauce (garlic, chili, pepper, etc.) that you can choose from. If you can’t decide which crab to choose, the staff will show you a live crab. In addition to crab, seafood dishes such as shrimp are also delicious. In the kitchen, experienced Sri Lankan staff cook with gusto, so you can enjoy a little entertainment. Why not stop by after shopping?

Sea Joy

(cafe/restaurant)/Negombo

A reasonably priced cafe restaurant with a charming local atmosphere

It’s located in Negombo, close to the airport, so it’s easy to stop by on your first or last day.
It’s located in a seaside area, and the colorful interior and cheerful staff are charming. Although the restaurant is small, it has a wide variety of menu items, including Sri Lankan and Western cuisine, fresh seafood dishes, light meals and healthy soups. The Sri Lankan banana pancakes are a recommended dish by our staff!

Governor’s Restaurant

(Restaurant)/Mount Lavinia

Enjoy a meal while feeling the sea breeze at this historic colonial hotel

The buffet-style restaurant in the hotel is extremely popular among locals, and many guests visit just for the food. The menu changes daily, and the buffet, prepared by a famous chef, offers a wide variety of dishes, including Western food as well as high-quality traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. If the weather is nice, we recommend dining on the terrace and enjoying the pleasant breeze.

Paradise Road The Gallery Cafe

(Cafe)/Colombo

An elegant and artistic cafe designed by Geoffrey Bawa

The black and white interior design is typical of Bawa, and the natural atmosphere of the courtyard makes you feel stylish just by entering. The menu has a lot of Western food, and the prices are a little on the high side. It is adjacent to a general store on Paradise Road, so you can buy stylish souvenirs and use the free Wi-Fi, making it a convenient spot for travelers. This is the perfect place for lunch when sightseeing in Colombo!

Dilmah Tea Lounge

(Cafe)/Colombo

A must-see for girls’ trips! A stylish tea cafe where you can enjoy tastings

A new cafe affiliated with Sri Lanka’s largest tea brand, Dilma. Find your favorite tea or blend while tasting the various types of tea lined up in the stylish and colorful interior of the store! In addition to tea, they also have a menu of sweets and light meals such as sandwiches, so if you get tired from sightseeing in Colombo, you can take a stylish break here.

Barefoot

(miscellaneous goods)/Colombo Galle

Be enchanted by tropical colors! A high-quality handmade goods store

A fashionable goods store in Colombo and Galle that is impressive for its colorful fabrics. All items are handmade, and the clothes, miscellaneous goods, stuffed toys, etc. are all carefully selected by the designer who designed the fabrics for Bawa’s hotels. Although they are a bit pricey, they make great souvenirs. The beautiful tropical colors that are hard to find in Japan will brighten up the interior of your home.

Anuradhapura (World Heritage Site)

The oldest and first royal city in Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura is where the first Sri Lankan dynasty was founded. It covers an area of ​​52 square kilometers and tens of thousands of people lived here. It is also known as the birthplace of Sri Lankan culture. In 1982, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as the Sacred City of Anuradhapura.

Sigiriya (World Heritage Site)

You can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view from the rocky mountain.

A “fortress in the sky” built in the 5th century. The entrance to the fortress is in the shape of a large lion, and the remains of a former palace remain at the summit, 200m above ground. Sigiriya is also famous for the beautiful frescoes on the rock face halfway up the summit, and is always crowded with tourists.

Polonnaruwa (World Heritage Site)

A city with many beautiful sculpture ruins.

The ancient capital of Polonnaruwa was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1982. It is a city where a dynasty was established between the 11th and 13th centuries. This period is also known as the Sri Lankan Renaissance, and some of the most beautiful and artistic monuments in Asia remain here.

Dambulla (World Heritage Site)

The largest cave temple in Japan that utilizes nature.

This cave temple is said to have been built in the 1st century BC, and is home to a large number of beautiful Buddha statues that are unparalleled in Sri Lanka. In addition, murals depicting the reincarnation of Buddha remain on the entire surface of the rock walls. In 1991, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as the Golden Temple of Dambulla.

Kandy (World Heritage Site)

The last dynasty to retain Buddhist influence.

It was the last capital of the Sinhalese dynasty, which lasted until 1815. It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1988. It is a city with a strong Buddhist influence, due in part to the presence of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, where the tooth of Buddha is enshrined. At the same time, there is also colonial architecture built during the British colonial period.

Central Highlands (World Heritage Site)

A natural wonderland where many endangered species live.

The Central Highlands, which was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2010, is a vast area consisting of three areas. Not only is it home to many flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered species unique to Sri Lanka, but it also offers the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve (World Heritage Site)

The only remaining area of ​​ancient jungle.

This is the last remaining tropical rainforest on the island that has never been disturbed by anyone. It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1988. Within this vast protected area, which stretches 21km east to west and 3.7km north to south, there are many species of mammals, fish, and other plants unique to the protected area.

Galle (World Heritage Site)

A beautiful port town that retains vestiges of history.

The city of Galle was once a resting place for Arab merchants along the sea route connecting the East and the West. After that, in 1505, under Portuguese rule, a large fortress was built and it became known as a “fortified city.” It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1988.

Safari

You can enjoy a jeep safari without going all the way to Africa!

Sri Lanka, with over 20 national parks and over 100 nature reserves, is truly a treasure trove of flora and fauna. Some species are endemic to Sri Lanka. You can easily experience a safari in Minneriya National Park and Udawalawe National Park, where many wild elephants live, and Yala National Park and Wilpattu National Park, where a diverse range of wildlife including leopards live. >>Tours here

Elephant seaweed

YAn elephant riding experience where you can see and touch them up close

Sri Lanka is a famous habitat for Asian elephants, and even outside of facilities such as national parks and elephant orphanages, it is common to encounter wild elephants on the roadside during your travels. Elephant riding in Habarana and Sigiriya, which are the bases for sightseeing in the cultural triangle, is a famous place to try, so why not add it to your itinerary? You can enjoy a thrilling experience, such as walking through the jungle while being rocked on the back of an elephant, crossing a river, or viewing Sigiriya Rock from a pond.

museum

Learn more about Sri Lanka

If you want to learn more about Sri Lankan traditions and culture, be sure to include museums in your plans, such as the Sigiriya Museum near Sigiriya Rock, the Tea Museum in Kandy, the Mask Museum in Ambalangoda on the southwest coast, Apegama in Kotte, the National Museum in Colombo, and the JR Jayawardene Cultural Centre. You can spend a meaningful time learning about deep history.

Peradeniya

The botanical gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

This is a huge national botanical garden where you can see tropical plants. The first tea tree buried in Sri Lanka and the large tree known for the song “What kind of tree is this?” are located in the center of the park. There are also coconut and spice trees, so it is a great place for a walk.

Pinnawala (Elephant Orphanage)

A unique elephant orphanage in the world.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a place you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Baby elephants who have been separated from their parents and injured elephants who cannot be released back into the wild are protected here. There is a large river flowing nearby, and the sight of many elephants bathing in the water is a must-see.

Nuwara Eliya

A land rich in nature with a climate similar to that of the UK.

Because the climate is similar to that of England, it is called “Little England” of Sri Lanka and was loved by the British as a summer resort. It is a region rich in nature surrounded by beautiful mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. It is also the birthplace of Ceylon tea, which is loved all over the world.

Colombo

A big city with a diverse mix of cultures.

This big city of 1.5 million people is home to people of various ethnicities, religions and cultures. It is characterized by contrasting scenes such as colonial architecture under skyscrapers and food stalls next to modern supermarkets. You can also enjoy shopping for original Sri Lankan brands.

Negombo

Beaches, markets, walks… A hidden gem near the airport

Colombo International Airport is located in Negombo, about an hour and a half away from Colombo. If you have time before your flight, spend some time in Negombo. It’s along the beach, so we recommend stopping by the local fish market, mangrove safari, and nearby supermarket. You can also enjoy strolling along the streets lined with hotels, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Southwest Coast

A perfect beach area for leisure and sightseeing

The season is from late November to March, but January to March is the best season. Whale watching and surf shops are also open during the season. April to June and October to November are the rainy seasons. There are many nice hotels and Ayurvedic hotels scattered around, including the Bawa Hotel, and the highway runs from Colombo to the World Heritage Site of Galle, making it easy to travel.

East Coast

A beach area that is rapidly gaining popularity

The best season is from May to September. During the season, whale watching and surf shops are also open. Since the end of the civil war in 2009, tourism development has progressed rapidly and stylish hotels have rapidly increased in this area, but compared to the southwest coast, the waves are calmer and the atmosphere is more relaxed. If you have a plan with a few days to spare, why not add Trincomalee and Passikuda to your Cultural Triangle tour?

Kalpitiya Peninsula

A hidden, hidden beach area that is still unknown and highly recommended

This is an area with little rain throughout the year. In recent years, tourism development projects have been progressing, and cottages and stylish hotels are gradually increasing, but the number of tourists is still low in this area, so it is recommended for honeymoons and relaxed adult trips. Dolphin watching is popular from May to October, and there are also plenty of activities such as kite surfing and diving.

surfing

Sri Lanka is the mecca of surfing! Surfers from all over the world are paying attention to the waves

The ocean in Sri Lanka has good waves, so surfers from all over the world gather in the areas during the season. Hikkaduwa on the southwest coast is a popular surf spot from October to April, and Arugam Bay on the east coast is a popular surf spot from May to September, and cheap guesthouses are bustling. Plans that combine sightseeing and surfing are also popular.

Snorkeling and diving

Surprisingly, there are many diving spots! There are untouched corals remaining.

You can enjoy snorkeling and diving at dive shops and marine shops mainly in Hikkaduwa on the southwest coast, Trincomalee and Passikuda on the east coast, and Kalpitiya on the northwest coast. The main sights are untouched coral reefs and colorful tropical fish, but you may also encounter sea turtles, dolphins, and manta rays.

Sri Lankan curry

Although Sri Lankans eat curry for all three meals, there are many different flavors.

It is eaten with a large amount of rice or noodles, dipped in various kinds of curry made from various ingredients. It is a little spicy because it uses a lot of fresh spices, but it is also a healthy food because it is closely connected to Ayurveda. We also recommend cooking experiences at local homes and tours where you can buy spices to take home.

Tropical Fruits

They all have a mellow sweetness and are all delicious.

In addition to papaya and pineapple, which are available all year round, you can enjoy a variety of fruits depending on the season, such as rambutan, mangosteen, durian, and star fruit. It’s also fun to see the different fruits available in each region. In particular, there are over 50 varieties of bananas, some of which cannot be eaten in Japan, so be sure to try them!

coconut

Coconut is a treasure trove of the latest craze! How to use it, and more than just oil

Coconut oil is a big hit in women’s magazines and the media as a superfood. Sri Lanka also produces a lot of coconuts. They can be harvested in ordinary household gardens, so in addition to the oil, coconut milk is squeezed and used in cooking, the water in king coconuts is drunk like juice, and there is also a drink called “arrack” made from coconuts. Coconuts are also used for prayers at temples and as dishwashing tools, making them an indispensable part of Sri Lankan life.

Spices & Herbs

A must-see for cooking ladies! Make your everyday meals Ayurvedic

Sri Lankan food is made mainly from spices and herbs, and the ancient Ayurvedic tradition of making use of nature has been passed down to modern dining tables without disappearing. Turmeric, chili, coriander, cumin, mustard seeds, pepper, curry leaves… Why not learn how to use them and bring that wisdom back to your own everyday dining table?

Black tea

It’s a famous tea producing region, so you should try it.

When you think of souvenirs from Sri Lanka, you think of tea. If you go to Nuwara Eliya, you can visit a tea factory. Each region is branded, so we recommend going around the plantations and tasting the various teas! Lion Tours also offers tours that take you to the tea auction site. >>Tour here

Ayurveda

Improve your beauty and health with traditional medicine.

It is a traditional Sri Lankan medicine strongly influenced by preventive medicine. Massages using various herbs and oils are popular among locals. Treatments are generally taken over 7 days or more, but a one-day experience is also very satisfying. Refresh your mind and body!  >>Tour here

Fortune telling

Marriage and politics are also decided by fortune telling. Power stones are a reward to yourself.

Fortune telling has been popular in Sri Lanka since ancient times, and even newspapers carry lucky and unlucky times and fortunes for each day. Fortune telling is used for turning points in life, and even the dates and times for events and festivals, giving a sense of a worldview based on the flow of the universe. Indian astrology, palmistry, and spiritual fortune telling are available, and tour plans can be arranged to include an experience of a highly reputed fortune telling service. If you’re interested, be sure to check it out!

festival

Diverse religions coexist, leading to diverse festivals

The Sinhala New Year is celebrated in April, the Wesak Festival in May celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Buddha, the Poson Festival in June celebrates the introduction of Buddhism, and the Esala Festival in July and August has the theme of fertility…The Esala Perahera Festival in Kandy, held in July and August, is particularly spectacular, with 100 decorated elephants and dazzling dancers parading through the city.

Meeting people

A once-in-a-lifetime miracle awaits.

Sri Lanka is a country with many friendly people and hospitable people. Meeting drivers, guides, and local people is also a great part of traveling. Lion Royal can arrange home visits and village tours to experience local life, as well as “hopping off along the way” in a private car. We can also arrange visits to NGO facilities and volunteer opportunities, so please feel free to contact us.

Shopping Mall

I want to buy a stylish souvenir!

When you visit a foreign city, one of the joys of travel is checking out the local fashion and latest trends at popular shopping malls. In Colombo, stop by O’Dell, Dutch Hospital, Cotton Collection, Cress Cat, or in Kandy, City Center, and try to find stylish new designs in colors and shapes that you won’t find in Japan.

Cosmetics

I want cosmetics from the Ayurveda powerhouse!

You can see Ayurvedic cosmetics in shopping malls, hotels, and airport shops. Organic cosmetics that suit your constitution are one of the most popular souvenirs. You can also get Ayurvedic soaps, balms, toothpaste, etc. at reasonable prices at supermarkets frequented by locals, so we recommend them.

jewelry

I want to buy cheap jewelry and make original accessories.

Sri Lanka is also a gemstone producing country. You can get gemstones much cheaper than buying them in Japan. If you can’t find a jewelry design you like, it’s becoming a secret trend to buy only the stones you like and have them arranged in Japan to make your favorite design. If you’ve come all the way to a gemstone producing country, it might be a good idea to bring back a gemstone that will protect you.

fashion

I was captivated by the colorful local colors!

Sri Lankans love colorful fashion that is typical of the tropics. It’s exciting to see parents and children wearing dresses made from fabrics they picked out at fabric stores in town, or walking around town in saris! You can easily buy stoles in the beautiful colors of saris, so they can be used as an accent color in your fashion even after you return home.

Asian goods

My favorite miscellaneous items are essential for my memories of my trip to Sri Lanka

Among the newest shopping malls and souvenir shops, there are antique shops and general stores with lots of tasteful ornaments, decorations, and interior accessories. Why not ask your private car driver for advice and stop at spots where you can buy stylish accessories and typical Sri Lankan tableware and cooking utensils used by locals?
>>Tours here