Things To Do
in Matale
Matale, Sri Lanka sits in the heart of the island’s hill country, famed for its aromatic spice gardens and nearby tea estates. It acts as a gateway to the Knuckles Mountain Range and a hub for markets, temples, and rural landscapes. The town blends bustling commerce with tranquil countryside, offering approachable day trips to nature and culture alike.
Expect a warm, verdant atmosphere with a strong sense of local life and hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Matale and settle into your cozy accommodation. After refreshing, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast at a local eatery. Take some time to explore the nearby market and get a feel for the vibrant local culture.
Visit the Matale Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Afterward, stroll through the beautiful gardens of the nearby Aluvihare Rock Temple, known for its stunning architecture. Enjoy the serenity of the surroundings as you take in the views of lush hills.
Dine at a charming local restaurant, sampling authentic Sri Lankan dishes. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk around Matale town, absorbing the sights and sounds of daily life. End your day with a warm cup of tea at your accommodation.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Matale Herbal Garden to discover the many medicinal plants of Sri Lanka. Guided tours provide insight into traditional herbal remedies and practices. Take the time to enjoy the tranquility of the garden as you walk amongst lush greenery.
Attend a cooking class at the garden, where you can learn to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes using fresh herbs and spices. Share your meal with fellow participants, enjoying the flavors you've mastered together. Spend the late afternoon relaxing at the garden, absorbing the natural beauty around you.
Return to your accommodation for a restful evening. Alternatively, venture out to experience a traditional Sri Lankan cultural show featuring music and dance. Delight in the vibrant performances that showcase the island's rich heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️1-night budget hotel | $15-30 |
| 🚎Local transport (short bus/train ride) | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a café | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spice and tea culture, with easy access to Knuckles and hill country scenery
- Affordability and friendly local hospitality
- Limited nightlife within Matale itself
- Major healthcare facilities are in larger towns (Kandy/Colombo); some services require travel
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Samawenna" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Mama hondai" - I am fine
Places to Visit in Matale
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant rows of spices, lush greenery, and daily activities that make colorful, dynamic photography subjects.
Ancient cave temple perched on a rocky hillside with dramatic light and intricate carvings.
Cloud-wreathed ridges and misty valleys ideal for wide landscape shots and panoramas.
Bustling stalls, colorful produce, and merchants setting up—a vivid slice of local life.
Food in Matale
Matale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A platter of steamed rice served with multiple curries (vegetarian and meat), vegetables, sambol, and papadums.
Must-Try!
A Dutch-influenced packet meal with rice, meat curry, sambol, and eggplant, often found in local eateries.
Coconut milk rice served with spicy onion sambol; a common festive or everyday dish.
Coconut sambol paired with a flavorful fish curry, a popular combination in coastal-influenced regions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market with fresh produce, spices, snacks, and local specialties.
Convenient spots to sample and purchase pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ground spice blends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes and hats before temple interiors, and speak softly. Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
A respectful nod or small bow is common. Use the right hand for giving money or items and avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects.
Safety
Tipping in Matale
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service charge isn’t included. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are common but not mandatory.
Cash in Sri Lankan rupees is widely used; many shops and markets also accept cards in larger establishments. ATMs are available in town; some rural stalls are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Afternoon downpours are common; plan indoor activities or shorter outdoor visits.
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration with clearer skies.
Variable weather with occasional showers; flexible plans recommended.
Matale at Night
Hiking in Matale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes with cloud forests, waterfalls, and sweeping views near Matale.
Airports
How to reach Matale by plane.
Main international gateway to Sri Lanka; approximately 140 km from Matale by road.
Domestic airport near Sigiriya; closer to Matale for some domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; Buddhists predominate in this area.
A minority community; Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities are also present.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Sri Lanka, widely played and watched in towns and schools.
A common pastime and competitive sport among youth and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Sri Lankan dishes can be prepared vegetarian; look for dhal, aviyal, potato curries, and jackfruit-based dishes. Ask for no fish or shrimp when ordering.