How many to visit: I advise
6 to 8 attractions over a week to ten days. That gives you one main stop on most days with slack for weather and slow buses. Cramming in two or three a day costs you comfort and extra transport money, and you end up rushing past things you paid for.
Choosing by travel style: If your budget is tight, favor
free or near-free nature: public beaches, viewpoints and walking trails cost nothing or a few dollars. Paid boat trips and activities such as catamaran or dolphin outings give the most buzz but eat budget fast, so choose one splurge and skip the rest. Culture-minded travelers get great value from temples, markets and sugar-heritage sites, which usually charge around Rs 300 to 700 (US$7 to 15).
What things cost: Plan
US$35 to 60 a day for attractions, food, local …
read more 👉 How many to visit: I advise 6 to 8 attractions over a week to ten days. That gives you one main stop on most days with slack for weather and slow buses. Cramming in two or three a day costs you comfort and extra transport money, and you end up rushing past things you paid for.
Choosing by travel style: If your budget is tight, favor free or near-free nature: public beaches, viewpoints and walking trails cost nothing or a few dollars. Paid boat trips and activities such as catamaran or dolphin outings give the most buzz but eat budget fast, so choose one splurge and skip the rest. Culture-minded travelers get great value from temples, markets and sugar-heritage sites, which usually charge around Rs 300 to 700 (US$7 to 15).
What things cost: Plan US$35 to 60 a day for attractions, food, local transport and a basic guesthouse. Entry fees run Rs 100 to 700 (US$2 to 15), a local guide for a hike Rs 1,500 to 3,000 (US$33 to 65), and a lagoon boat day Rs 1,500 to 3,500 (US$33 to 77) when booked directly on the beach rather than through a hotel. Buses cost Rs 30 to 100 (under US$2 for most rides), which makes them the best value over taxis.
Safety and etiquette: Currents on the south and east coasts are strong and many beaches have no lifeguards, so swim inside the reef. Sun is fierce, so carry 2 liters of water and reef-safe sunscreen. Cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes at Hindu temples and mosques, and ask before photographing worshippers. Keep valuables out of sight on beaches and decline pushy touts quietly. Beware of unlicensed boat operators, and confirm the price before you step aboard.