How to Travel Sigiriya Sustainably: Tips for an Eco-friendly Experience

Tropical beauty isn’t the only thing Sri Lanka is known for; the country also boasts a vast array of historical and cultural sites – guardians of the island’s rich heritage. Sigiriya, known primarily for its rock fortress, is one of the best places to visit to explore Sri Lanka’s history. With sustainability being a hot topic, travellers are advised to be mindful of their choices. Here’s how to travel to Sigiriya in an eco-friendly way.

Travel During Off-Peak Season 

Travelling when there aren’t many other people going to the same destination is a great way to make your trip more sustainable. Many believe that the peak season, when everyone visits, is the best time to go. Weather-wise, it might be ideal, but it also puts a strain on local resources and the environment. Choosing to visit at a time when there may be occasional rain but fewer people around is a great way to be eco-friendly. Besides, the quieter months give you a more peaceful experience.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation 

Stay at a hotel that truly believes in sustainability – not just those with labels, but ones that genuinely support sustainable practices. Some resorts in Sigiriya have even won awards for promoting home-grown produce and effective waste management. There are a few options to choose from, including Sigiriya Jungles Sri Lanka.

Support Local Communities 

While the local economy does benefit from tourism, local communities tend to be left out. Sustainable travel strives to remedy this by lending a helping hand to the locals. Can you also help? Of course. Buy items directly from local artisans, enjoy meals at small family-run restaurants, and join tours run by the local community. 

The aim is to support locals, but these choices also give you a more authentic experience. Engaging with locals is an unfiltered way of learning about their lives and traditions.

Use Sustainable Transportation

Try to use eco-friendly ways to get around whenever possible. Private cars aren’t the best option if you want to be eco-conscious. Besides, using public transport in Sri Lanka is fun and an experience in itself. For instance, the train ride from Kandy to Ella is not only beneficial from an environmental point of view, but it also makes for a memorable journey.

Bikes and tuk-tuks are also sustainable modes of transportation. Rent a bike and explore Sigiriya to your heart’s content. Not only will you gain a richer and more memorable experience, but you will also avoid harming the environment.

Respect Wildlife and Ecosystems

National parks in Sri Lanka are filled with amazing wildlife. No one would dispute that tourists should visit them, but it’s important to avoid disturbing their residents and ecosystems. Some tourists cause disruption unwittingly – try not to be one of them. 

Always keep a safe distance from the animals, never feed or shout at them, and remember that crowded jeeps and large tour groups are not the best way to enjoy a safari.

Don’t Use Plastic 

Plastic usage has become one of the growing concerns. The damage it causes to the environment and animals is unfathomable. It’s heartbreaking to see beautiful wild animals sometimes consuming plastic after mistaking it for food. 

If you truly want to be eco-conscious, don’t bring single-use plastic and, if you can, say no to plastic altogether. Invest in a reusable plastic bottle and fill it up at a water station. This is easy to do, as most hotels provide water stations.

Learn about Culture and Traditions 

Culture is one of the most beautiful aspects of Sri Lanka, so take the time to learn about it. Getting to know local customs will not only make your trip more meaningful but also give you a new perspective. 

You could learn to make a traditional dish or two and join a cultural festival. These little things add so much depth to your trip and help you create lasting memories with locals.