Things To Do
in Akurana
Akurana is a vibrant market town in Sri Lanka's Kandy District, known for its friendly communities and bustling street life. Nestled among the hills of tea country, it serves as a gateway to rural Sri Lankan experiences while staying within reach of Kandy's cultural treasures. The town blends agricultural heritage with growing cafes, guesthouses, and local shops that showcase spices, textiles, and produce.
Visitors can explore traditional mosques and temples, sample flavorful street foods, and enjoy lush countryside just beyond the town center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Akurana Sri Lanka Muslim Heritage Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the local Muslim community. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Akurana, marveling at the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Don't forget to stop by a local bakery to taste traditional Sri Lankan sweets and enjoy a fresh cup of tea.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Akurana Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the area, and appreciate its stunning design and tranquil surroundings. Visit a local artisan shop where you can watch skilled craftsmen at work creating intricate wood and stone carvings. Wrap up your cultural exploration by taking a leisurely walk along the banks of the nearby river, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant that serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, where you can savor dishes like rice and curry with a variety of local vegetables. After dinner, take a stroll through the town center, where you can experience the lively evening atmosphere and interact with friendly locals. End your day by enjoying a traditional performance of Sri Lankan music and dance, providing a perfect cultural capstone to your day.
Begin your morning with a guided nature walk in the lush greenery surrounding Akurana, where you can encounter a variety of native flora and fauna. Bring your binoculars to spot local bird species, as this area is known for its diverse avian population, including colorful parrots and majestic eagles. The tranquility of the early hours allows for a peaceful connection with nature and a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
After a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, continue your explorations with a visit to the nearby wetlands, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Spend the afternoon leisurely walking along the paths while keeping an eye out for migratory birds and other wildlife. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera, as the wetlands offer stunning views and a chance to appreciate the ecosystem.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot by the riverbank for a peaceful sunset view – the colors reflecting off the water create a picturesque scene. Enjoy a light dinner at a riverside café, where you can taste local specialties while listening to the sounds of nature. Conclude your day with a quiet reflection on the serenity of Akurana's natural wonders.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (local bus) | $0.20-0.60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town Sri Lankan experience
- Good value for money and warm hospitality
- Proximity to Kandy and tea country
- Quiet, safe streets for walking and exploring
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options within Akurana
- Public transport can be slower outside major hubs
- Hot and humid summers; rainfall can be unpredictable
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Karunakara" - Please
- "Vanakkam" - Hello (Tamil)
- "Nandri" - Thank you (Tamil)
Places to Visit in Akurana
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning market scenes with vendors setting up stalls, colorful produce, and a sense of local rhythm.
Architectural details and daily life in the town's mosque and surrounding streets—great for candid photography.
Rolling green hills and tea bushes with fog in the mornings provide classic Sri Lankan tea-country imagery.
Sunset or golden-hour shots from a hill with a view across the valley and terraced fields.
Food in Akurana
Akurana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chopped roti, vegetables, and often scrambled eggs or meat on a hot griddle; a Sri Lankan staple found in many eateries.
Must-Try!
A platter of steamed rice with an assortment of vegetable curries, pickles, and sambol; widely available at local restaurants.
Lentil curry served with rice or string hoppers; a comforting vegetarian choice commonly found in homes and eateries.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented batter; can be plain, egg, or coconut hoppers—all great with curries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offer fresh fruit, spices, roasted snacks, and aromatic curries you can sample on the go.
Try craving-friendly bites like isso wade, samosas, and fresh crisp vadai from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes and hats before entering sacred spaces; dress modestly and speak softly.
Accept offerings with both hands; modest refusals are common; it’s polite to show appreciation.
Ask permission before photographing people or religious ceremonies; avoid taking pictures in restricted areas.
Greet elders with a small nod or wai; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Akurana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are welcome for good service; 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge is included; small tips to hotel staff and guides are appreciated.
Cash in Sri Lankan rupees is widely used; many mid-range and higher establishments accept cards; carry some local currency for street vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional afternoon showers; mornings are pleasant for outdoor exploring; carry water and a light layer for cooler evenings.
Southwest monsoon brings heavy rain to the region with thunderstorms; plan indoor activities and keep rain gear handy.
Dry season along some parts of the coast but variable in the highlands; mornings can be cool and misty; enjoy lush green landscapes after rains.
Unpredictable showers and higher humidity; best to keep flexible with outdoor plans and carry a compact rain jacket.
Akurana at Night
Hiking in Akurana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned trekking region with cloud forests and sweeping views; day trips from Akurana are possible with planning.
Gentle hikes through tea plantations offering soothing scenery and learning about tea production.
Airports
How to reach Akurana by plane.
Colombo’s international gateway; about 120-150 km from Akurana; travel by highway or domestic flight to central Sri Lanka.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group in the region with Buddhist traditions; families and communities.
A significant Muslim community with mosques and bustling markets; Arabic-influenced cuisine features prominently.
Smaller communities contribute to the cultural mix with varied cuisines and languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across Sri Lanka, with local clubs and school teams.
Common in community centers and schools; casual games and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akurana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sri Lankan vegetarian cuisine relies on legumes, vegetables, and coconut milk; look for dal, curries, and vegetable kottu, and ask chefs to avoid fish sauce or eggs if needed.