Day 8 – 9: Mirissa
The bus from Tissa to Mirissa stops in Matara, so jump off at the station and ask for directions for the right bus. Once you’ve arrived, put your bags down and head on down to the beach.
Sri Lanka has some very pretty beaches all over. Mirissa is more of a resort area where you can grab a coconut cocktail, sunbathe on loungers and eat the famous Sri Lankan curry.
One of the best things to do in Sri Lanka is to go whale watching! It’s best to pick the early morning slot, as the whales are the most active then. You’re likely to see huge blue whales, sperm whales and maybe even some playful dolphins.
TIP: Raja and the Whales were a great company. Their website is currently down but you can contact them via Facebook, or email them.
Take a sea sickness pill an hour before your boat leaves – the sea does get quite rough! Be aware though – the tablets will make you very drowsy so you might need to return to your accommodation for a nap!
A cooking class is the perfect way to get involved with the local culture. Considering how tempting and delicious Sri Lankan food is, you’d be mad not to sign up!
We took a class at Dewmini Roti Shop, which is rated number 1 on Trip Advisor. We had some amazing food but it wasn’t the best class we’ve ever been to.
Do your research but be aware that everyone has a personal preference of how a class runs. Think about if you want a private class, or somewhere a bit more social.
Budget Accommodation – Village Star Resort
Mid-range Accommodation – Adana Beach Resort
Luxury Accommodation – Seaworld Resort
Day 10: Negombo
Take a train from Mirissa to Negombo, changing at Colombo. There are lots of taxis outside Colombo train station but they are priced incredibly highly and it’s not that much of a shorter journey.
TIP: Ask the station manager for a key if you need to use the toilets – they’re often for foreigners only so they’re locked up!
There isn’t much to do in Negombo but it’s a nice enough beach town to stay in before you fly home.
Rent a bicycle (usually for free) from your hotel and take a trip along the beach. Grab a few bottles from one of the many many beer shops around, and enjoy one the best sunsets you’ll ever experience on the sand.
There are a few sellers trying to make a living – they weren’t too pressing though and we actually bought a beautiful bowl from one guy!
Budget Accommodation – Tropical Garden
Mid-range Accommodation – Camelot Beach
Luxury Accommodation – Tranquil Negombo
TIP: Visit Sri Lanka in January and enjoy sunny beaches, cool evenings and a higher chance of spotting a whale!
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