Where To Stay In Kandy With Family? A Practical Guide For Accommodation In Kandy

BY  Sibashree Mar 24, 2026

Galle has been my ideal dreamy, sepia-toned travel destination located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka.  Moreover, the city’s stunningly beautiful old fortified peninsula reaches defiantly out into the Indian Ocean and boasts many crumbling colonial-style buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and swaying palm trees.  However, the true magic of Galle comes from taking it slowly.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the things to do in Galle Fort. However, I will begin with why a visit to the Galle Fort is worth it and how to get there.  Why Visit Galle Fort? A UNESCO World Heritage Site And The Fortress That Defied Time “Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British.  It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions.” • UNESCO World Heritage Convention.  The trading post was once impenetrable, and the rampart walls kept the invaders at bay.  However, centuries later, during the 2004 Tsunami, the same stone walls that stood against cannons also protected the people from the ocean.  Thus, the Galle Fort remained intact even though the surrounding coastline was devastated. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being a unique example of a fortified city.  How To Reach The Galle Fort? You can easily reach the Galle Fort from Colombo or down the coast.  From Colombo  You can take a train from Colombo Fort, and after a three-hour journey and amazing ocean views, you will reach Galle.  However, currently, this route is being reconstructed. So, you can take a Highway AC bus from the Makumbura Station.  Furthermore, it is a 2-hour journey through the Expressway.  From Mirissa Or Weligama If you’re already beach-hopping the south coast, you can just hop on any local bus headed toward Matara or Galle.  It’s cheap, frequent, and gives you a real taste of local life, and that’s amazing as a follower of TheLowDownUnder Travel philosophy.  Also, from my days in Jaffna to the things to do in Kandy, I have always ditched comfort and the obvious for a more authentic experience.  What Are The Things To Do In Galle Fort, Sri Lanka?  When talking about the things to do in Galle Fort, you have to think beyond the tourist checklist.  Furthermore, Galle is a place of contrasts! You have the rugged, salt-sprayed stone of the ramparts on one hand, and on the other hand, you have the most polished boutique shops.  So, Galle is beyond your usual Instagram photo op.  And one of the best things to do in Galle is to understand how the fortress and the neighborhood have survived empires and natural disasters.  Moreover, in Galle, you become a part of the history as you watch the sunset from an ancient bastion or sip cold beer at a wine bar on a cobblestone street.  Also, you will see an extension of all these in my detailed account of two days in Galle Fort.  Day 1: Getting Lost In The Living Museum Walks, exploring the architecture, culture, and the much hyped sunset experience! These were the things to do in Galle Fort on day one.  Morning: The Rampart Walk Walking is the best way to begin your exploration of Galle Fort. It is small and, therefore, a great destination for pedestrians.  In the morning, I climbed to the top of the stone ramparts and walked the entire way around the edge of the Fort, obtaining a 360-degree view of Galle. I saw the sparkling, turquoise ocean to one side and the red tiled roofs of the original buildings of the town on the other. On your walking tour, look for the famous Galle Clock Tower and the historic Galle Lighthouse, which is probably the most photographed place in all of Sri Lanka.  The whitewashed lighthouse is stunning against the clear blue sky, but I found that the late afternoon light gives it that soft, golden color that makes the palm tree shadows cast perfectly across the grass. Afternoon: Culture And Architecture After you’ve finished exploring the upper level of the walls, it’s time to explore the narrow alleyways of the city.  Throughout the streets, you are going to notice something extremely wonderful. You will see the cultural and ethnic diversity and the same inclusive culture of Sri Lanka, prominent through the iconic Ambuluwawa Tower in Colombo.   In just a matter of blocks, I was able to visit the Dutch Reform Church, All Saints Anglican Church, Meeran Mosque, and Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple.  All these places serve as a testament to the many different people who have influenced the development of Sri Lanka over many hundreds of years. If the heat of the sun becomes unbearable, I recommend that you check out either the Historical Mansion Museum or the Maritime Museum.  Both of these museums are in beautifully restored colonial structures and provide visitors with great artifacts dating back to Sri Lanka’s colonial period. Evening: The Sunset Ritual When the sun is going down, I suggest that you make your way to the western walls of the fort.  At Flag Rock Bastion, you will find the locals performing their “cliff jumping” tourism attraction.  You will have the opportunity to see how far they will go into the crashing waves.  If you would rather have a quieter spot to watch the sunset, I would recommend that you go to Triton Bastion.  I spent an hour there on the grassy ramparts watching as the sky slowly burned with bright oranges. What a way to see Mother Nature's fireworks show. Day 2: Boutiques, Buffets, And Beaches Day 2 was more relaxed as I shopped, gorged on grand feasts, and explored the beaches.  Morning: The Shopping Mecca Galle is now Sri Lanka's shopping capital. Pedlar Street is the epicenter of the boutique shops, from where you can collect elegant souvenirs.  A few of my personal favorites are in the table below.  Places to Visit for ShoppingThings to BuyStick No BillsVintage-Style PostersThe Tea Room by Evergreen GroupBuy Tea in BulkOld Dutch HospitalThis former colonial hospital is now a chic shopping and dining precinct. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and browse. Lunch: A Local Feast After the spicy food in Jaffna, the food in Gelle was comforting. So, trying the Coconut Sambal is one of the best things to do in Galle.  You will get the curries with chicken and vegan-friendly options here. Also, to beat the midday Sun, have some homemade ginger beer or treat yourself to a scoop at Isle of Gelato.  Moreover, don’t forget to try the cashew caramel at Isle of Gelato.  Afternoon: Beyond The Walls As the Sun starts getting softer, you can explore the surrounding coast. Also, if you want to extend your coastal hunt, head to Dewata Beach.  Here, you will find many beginners and professionals surfing the waves.  Furthermore, if you want to just relax, take a tuk-tuk ride to the Jungle Beach in Unawatuna. It is a small sandy cove with lush greenery. 

BY  Sibashree Mar 27, 2026

Osaka food is slowly and steadily surpassing Tokyo as the poster for Japanese cuisine.  Furthermore, it has been just a few days since La Cime in Osaka became the best restaurant in Japan in the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list in 2026.   However, the soul of the Osaka food lies in the streets. The Dotonbori neighborhood was especially the best when I visited.  In fact, I was so much in love with the street food here that I chose to cancel the previous booking and chose a hotel in Dotonbori instead.  Also, the Dotonbori Market was the epicenter of my food exploration in Osaka.  Moreover, how can you ever forget what Anthony Bourdain had to say about food in Osaka? He said,  “I’m a big believer in winging it. I’m a big believer that you’re never going to find the perfect city travel experience or the perfect meal without a constant willingness to experience a bad one.  Letting the happy accident happen is what a lot of vacation itineraries miss, I think, and I’m always trying to push people to allow those things to happen rather than stick to some rigid itinerary.” So, let’s explore Osaka food at its best in Dotonbori. What Are The Best Osaka Food You Can Try On The Streets?  Osaka, despite its funky and vibrant appearance, has a history that goes back to the Edo Period in the 17th century.  Furthermore, it was a major trading hub during that period. Also, it was the same time when Osaka earned the nickname “Japan’s Kitchen.”  Moreover, Dotonbori extends across a canal that reaches out to the sea. So, you will always find fresh seafood in the local delicacies.  Ramen Udon Torikara Takoyaki These are some of the delicacies served by the local vendors in Osaka.  However, just mentioning these names does not justify the tangible experience of Osaka food.  I saw a big red octopus getting dressed and served, and the lobsters were irresistible.  Nonetheless, these are the best street foods you can try in Osaka.  1. Mitarashi-Dango Pocket-Pinch: 150 JPY  Mitarashi-Dango is the most comforting street food you will try in Osaka. Furthermore, these are great for budget-friendly travelers and backpackers like me.  These rice balls are sweet and chewy, and have a hint of burnt taste due to the unique browning process that takes place once the rice balls are boiled and cooled.  Furthermore, the glaze of the sweet soy sauce makes it perfect!  2. Okonomiyaki Pocket-Pinch: 400-450 JPY  Do you like frittata? Then, you will love these Japanese savory pancakes even more.  Okonomiyaki has all the flavors. However, you never feel heavy after having them. Furthermore, these pancakes are simple, as cabbage, flour, and eggs are the main ingredients.  However, the local street vendors add seafood and scallions to the dish for more flavor and color.  Also, they serve it with barbecue sauce.  3. Daifuku Mochi Pocket Pinch: 350-400 JPY Mochi, the round rice cake, is a staple Japanese delicacy.  It has the chewiness of Mitarashi-Dango. However, it has filling as the daifuku part of the name suggests.  I loved the ones with strawberry filling, and you can also try them with other fruits.  4. Torikara Pocket-Pinch: 300-400 JPY If the USA has its deep-fried chicken, Japan also has Torikara.  I loved them, and the fried potatoes and the variety of sauces will be the most amazing additions.  5. Takoyaki Pocket Pinch: 700-800 JPY  Takoyaki is probably the most famous street food of Osaka and Japan.  Japanese people love these octopus balls, and that’s why the Takoyaki stalls in Dotonbori are countless.  Furthermore, the scallions and flakes of dried fish sprinkled on top make the dish really amazing.  Moreover, the batter is gooey, and it will melt in your mouth.  6. Taiyaki Pocket Pinch: 300 JPY This is a fish-shaped pastry and my silent favorite among everything I tried in Osaka.  The smell is irresistible, and the main attraction is to see it getting ready in front of your eyes.  You can have this vanilla-flavored pastry with cheese, custard, and hamburger meat. However, the red bean paste is the ideal choice if you want to follow the grammar of East Asian cuisine. 7. Udon Pocket Pinch: 650 JPY The hot broth and noodles! I know that I have kept you waiting for the longest time to find this lethal combination on my list.  The noodles in Udon are thick, and with the right seasoning, their taste grows on you. That’s why you can eat udon every day and not get bored.  Furthermore, there are many variations of udon, such as the curry udon, yaki-udon, nabeyaki udon, and tempura udon.  8. Soba Pocket Pinch: 400 JPY Soba has buckwheat noodles in hot broth. Furthermore, these noodles are darker and thinner.  Furthermore, the simplicity of the dish and flavors make it a perfect palate cleanser.  I loved a bowl of soba with scallions.  9. Ramen Pocket Pinch: 700-800 JPY Ramen, of course, is the quintessential wheat noodles the whole world has been eating for quite some time now.  I tried different variations of ramen in Osaka. However, I loved the one with pork the best.  10. Yakitori Pocket Pinch: 1000-1100 JPY Yakitori is the Japanese take on grilled meat.  Furthermore, you will get many variations in the meat used here. You will get bone meat, chicken skin, seafood, and many other varieties here.  11. Sushi  Pocket Pinch: 1200 JPY If Sushi is an emotion, then it runs in the veins of Osaka.  From sea urchin to tuna, eel, and salmon, Osaka spoils you with choices in sushi.  Furthermore, the art of eating sushi is something that you need to understand. It is just not about gulping down some food.  It’s also about being a part of the Japanese culture.  12. Taiko Manju Pocket Pinch: 100-150 JPY You may think that Taiko Manju and Taiyaki are the same, but the origin and texture are very different.  Despite the use of the same ingredients, Taiko Manju is fluffier. Furthermore, their drum shape is inspired by the taiko drums, which are integral parts of Japanese festivals.  Read Also: What Are The Best Day Trips From Tokyo? Most Popular Ones You Will Love Cherry Blossom Kyoto Japan: 2026 Season And The Top Viewing Spots Is an Mt Fuji Day Trip From Tokyo Worth It? How To Plan It?

BY  Sibashree Apr 22, 2026

Demodara Railway Loop, nestled in the mountains near Ella, Sri Lanka, is one of the most iconic rail routes in the world.  Furthermore, you will get the most amazing views of the Nine Arch Bridge and the train plying through it from the Demodara Railway Loop.  Also, since 2024, this beautiful railway loop has been protected under the New Heritage Management Program.  Moreover, opening on 21st March, 1921, this railway loop has been celebrating more than 100 years of heritage and history.  So, here is a brief account of my beautiful train ride in the Demodara railway loop.  Why Is The Demodara Loop Famous?  Between Ella and Uduwara stations, Demodara is a beautiful railway station in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka.  While extending the railway line to Badulla, the authorities faced a serious challenge due to the steep altitude.  Furthermore, it is famous as the only railway station in the world to be built in a tunnel (Tunnel 42) through which the train passes.  Moreover, this loop, with a length of 441 feet, passes through a 360-degree loop, offering the most amazing views of the surroundings.  Also, it is interesting to know that the design of the Demodara Railway Loop was originally inspired by a Kanyan turban. Then, British and Ceylonese engineers put up the structure. Devapura Jayasena Wimalasurendra was the engineer who conceptualized the idea.  In addition, if you miss the train from Ella to Demodara, you can also enjoy a 9 km hike. The hike continues through tea estates, and then you will meet the iconic Nine Arch Bridge on the way.   Then, you can take a train back from Demodara to Ella. However, I fortunately got to board the trains both times.  A Train Ride In The Demodara Railway Loop  Unlike the Kandy-Ella train ride, a train ride in the Demodara Railway Loop was peaceful.  Also, you could relax even after you saw the train coming out of the tunnel and ascending. It moves very slowly through the loop.  As the train was almost empty and as Sri Lanka demands everything the Travel LowDownUnder philosophy teaches you, I boarded a 3rd class compartment.  I was happy as there was nobody to stop me from peeping through the doors on both sides of the train, and soaking in the beauty of the surrounding lush tea estates.  Also, it was amazing to enjoy a train ride across the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Moreover, when the train was passing through the Nine Arch Bridge, I could see locals, especially children, standing and waving from the banks of the railway lines.  Overall, it was a comfortable and delightful experience! Insider Tip: When you are traveling from Ella to Demodara, stand near the window or gate on the left side in the direction the train is moving.  From there, you will get amazing views of the Nine Arch Bridge.  Train Time And Ticket Price On The Demodara Railway Loop  If you are traveling from Ella, you will get two trains to the Demodara Railway Loop. So, here are the details of the train timings and ticket prices (Source: Sri Lankan Railways).  Train NameDepartureArrivalTicket Price (LKR)11005 Special 1005 -Ambewela - Badulla 09:30 - 12:1611:25 AM11:40 AM- AC Saloon Car: 2500- Second Class Reserved Seats: 1700- Third Class Reserved Seats: 120011015 Special 1015 -Ambewela - Badulla 15:00 - 17:464:55 PM5:10 PM- AC Saloon Car: 2500- Second Class Reserved Seats: 1700- Third Class Reserved Seats: 1200 Why Is This Iconic Ride In The Demodara Railway Loop Worth It?  Beyond an engineering marvel, the Demodara Railway Loop is an example of historical railway innovation.  Furthermore, when riding in a quiet train carriage, you can enjoy the uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  Also, this train ride allows you to pass over the Nine Arch Bridge, one of the iconic heritage sites of Sri Lanka.  Moreover, as I was traveling solo, I experienced the joy, spontaneity, and independence backed by the quiet experience. If You Want To Walk From Ella To Demodara  I got to know about the Demodara Railway Loop at the Kadugannawa Railway Museum. It was raining for a few days in Ella, and seriously, I needed to do something to get out of the lull.  So, I decided to take a train ride from Ella to Demodara through the Demodara Railway Loop.  I got the train. However, if you miss the train,” go for a 9 km walk through the countryside and tea-covered hills.  The tea shops, nearby hills, and occasional spotting of peacocks in the bush will keep you entertained.  Moreover, as you descend from Demodara to Ella, you will get sweeping views of paddy fields.