
We began our Sri Lankan trip at the Southern beaches and ended our trip in the sands of the East coast. Four days of exploring temples and beaches in the East was the perfect ending for our month long stay.

Hinduism is actually more prevalent in this area so we were also treated to the brightly painted Hindu temples in all the colors of the rainbow.

On the short walk up to Koneswaram Temple you’ll pass wild spotted deer, stalls selling brightly painted masks and vendors offering ‘king coconuts’ to drink. The brightly colored temple is situated on a point with views of blue whales in the wide ocean.

The beautiful drive along the coast affords iconic views such as these fishing boats resting in the sand. You’ll pass villages with table after table covered in fish that are drying in the sun.

October through February is monsoon season on the East coast so prices are cheaper and there are less tourists than during the dry season. We stayed in the artistic, backpacker beachfront Aqua Inn for only $12 a night. The refreshing pool and treehouse bar were fun highlights.

We managed to keep to our budget of less than $100 per day for the entire Sri Lankan trip. That included food, transportation (buses, trains, tuk tuks and scooter rentals), rooms, drinks, temple fees and donations, toiletries and one souvenir mask that Ian is now carrying in his backpack! Sri Lanka was a diverse experience full of friendly people. A must see travel destination!