Think everyone is going to Japan and Bali? This is the next big thing

It has tranquil beaches, surf, a buzzing city, safari parks, and famous trains. And it has finally landed on the radar of Aussies.

Sri Lanka, the tropical nation next to India has grown so popular it is now close to pushing out a long-time favourite destination, one travel agent has revealed.

“Sri Lanka is now our second most-booked destination worldwide, behind only Japan,” Brendon Cooper, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Inspiring Vacations told nine.com.au.

“Its appeal is easy to see, from incredible wildlife and rich culture to spectacular landscapes, food and warm hospitality.”

The nation is proving especially popular with solo travellers and a third of bookers are going alone, he said.

The company also offers family tours with a 13-day family small group adventure popular for those with kids. It includes a Madu River boat ride, leopard spotting in Yala, and time exploring Sigiriya and Kandy.

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Most people are planning to visit Sri Lanka during what is considered the prime time to go.

“Nearly half our Sri Lanka travellers go between February and May,” Brendon said.

Meanwhile, local tourism bosses are also keen on promoting the country to Aussies looking for a new exotic destination to explore.

Sri Lanka’s tourism leaders and more than 50 hotels, tour operators and destination businesses heading to Australia for a three-city tourism roadshow visiting Sydney, Adelaide and Perth through September.

And with new direct flights from Jetstar from Melbourne starting next week, it’s set to become even more popular. Flights take under 11 hours and will go three times a week.

“Aussies and Sri Lankans are a match made in heaven – we share a massive love for cricket, the beach, and not taking life too seriously,” Buddhika Hewawasam, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, told nine.com.au.

“In Sri Lanka, you can catch waves in the morning, explore an ancient UNESCO fortress by afternoon, and sip tea in cool, misty mountains that evening.”

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Buddhika said there are three things which shouldn’t be missed on a holiday to Sri Lanka. Climbing Sigiriya is his first recommendation.

“It’s a massive 200-metre rock monolith rising out of the jungle with an ancient palace on top. The views from the summit will blow your mind,” he said.

Going on a safari is also high on the list.

“Heading into places like Udawalawe or Minneriya to see hundreds of wild elephants interacting in their natural home,” he said should be part of the plan.

And you’ve seen the videos on Instagram, you really can lean out of the window of one of those famous blue trains yourself.

It’s called The Hill Country Train and you can be on board as it winds through emerald tea plantations and cloud forests between Kandy and Ella.

“Our trains are the pulse of the island, connecting the coast, the heritage sites, and the central highlands,” he said.

That route is the Highland Line from Colombo to Kandy to Nuwara Eliya to Ella. There’s also The Coastal Line, from Colombo to Galle and Matara. Or do The North, from Colombo to the historic city of Jaffna.

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Travellers can lock in reserved seats, first class observation or second class up to 30 days in advance via the official railway portal, seatreservation.railway.gov.lk.

“Most travellers find it easiest to just have their local tour operator or hotel book reserved tickets,” Buddhika said.

“If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always rock up to the station on the day and buy a regular ticket – you might have to stand for a bit, but the vibe is unforgettable.”

Sri Lanka on a budget

Once you’re there it’s possible to make your money stretch. Local trains and express buses are cheap.

And while there are plenty of luxury hotels, stay in family guesthouses to save money and meet locals.

“Sri Lankan homestays are legendary. They’re super affordable, spotlessly clean, and the hosts will feed you like royalty,” Buddhika said.

As for the food, small road-side joints can be the most delicious.

“Skip western cafés and hit local ‘Rice and Curry’ joints or roadside roti stands. You’ll get standard-setting food for a few dollars,” he said.

To save money, go in April to May or September to November.

“The weather is still great in key parts of the island, but accommodation prices drop,” he said.