Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a new adventure. With its rich culture, delicious food, and tropical climate, Sri Lanka offers a unique experience for those looking to work and travel. In this article, we'll explore seven cities and towns in Sri Lanka that are ideal for digital nomads, each with its own unique attractions, nightlife, restaurants, and recreational activities.

1. Ella

Ella, a small town situated in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, is a must-visit for digital nomads. Known for its stunning tea plantations, breathtaking views, and cool climate, Ella is the perfect place to unwind and focus on work. Ella's main attraction is the Nine Arch Bridge, a picturesque bridge nestled among lush greenery and tea fields. The town also offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and temples to explore.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $250-$350 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $20-$30. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the sunrise hike to Little Adam's Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Be sure to also try the local Sri Lankan dishes, such as hoppers and kottu roti.

Where to Stay & Eat: The central area of Ella is where most digital nomads choose to stay. There are several furnished rental options available in this area. For dining, try the Chill Cafe or the Demodara Railway Restaurant, both popular among young travelers.

2. Galle

Galle, a historic city located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is famous for its well-preserved Dutch colonial buildings and beautiful beaches. Digital nomads will appreciate the city's fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the town's main attraction, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $25-$35. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $12.

Nomad Tip: Take a sunset stroll along the Galle Face Green, a popular promenade along the coast. Be sure to also try the local seafood, such as prawn curry and fish ambul thiyal.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Fort area is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the Fort Printers or the Galle Face Hotel, both popular among locals and travelers alike.

3. Kandy

Kandy, located in the central part of Sri Lanka, is a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for digital nomads. The city is home to the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist temple housing the tooth relic of Buddha. Digital nomads will appreciate Kandy's fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $200-$300 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $20-$30. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Attend the Kandy Esala Perahera, an annual procession of colorful floats, dancers, and elephants. The festival takes place in August and is a must-see for any traveler.

Where to Stay & Eat: The central area of Kandy is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the New Arthur Seat or the Mangala Restaurant, both popular among locals and travelers.

4. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is known for its cool climate, beautiful tea plantations, and colonial-era architecture. Digital nomads will appreciate the town's fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. Nuwara Eliya also offers numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and golfing.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $25-$35. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $12.

Nomad Tip: Visit the Sita Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya. The temple is surrounded by lush gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Where to Stay & Eat: The central area of Nuwara Eliya is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the Grand Hotel or the Hill Country New Heights, both popular among locals and travelers.

5. Sigiriya

Sigiriya, located in the central part of Sri Lanka, is famous for its ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes. Digital nomads will appreciate the town's fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. The main attraction is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any traveler.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $250-$350 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $20-$30. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Hike up to the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Be sure to also try the local Sri Lankan dishes, such as kottu roti and hoppers.

Where to Stay & Eat: The central area of Sigiriya is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the Green Wall or the Punchi Puttu, both popular among locals and travelers.

6. Negombo

Negombo, located on the western coast of Sri Lanka, is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a beachside lifestyle. The town offers a fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. Negombo's main attraction is its beautiful beaches and lagoon, which offer plenty of opportunities for water activities.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $200-$300 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $20-$30. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $10.

Nomad Tip: Take a boat ride through the Negombo Lagoon and visit the Muthurajawela Marsh, a beautiful wetland area teeming with wildlife.

Where to Stay & Eat: The central area of Negombo is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the Seafood Market or the Old Dutch Hospital, both popular among locals and travelers.

7. Colombo

Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is a bustling metropolis and a popular destination for digital nomads. The city offers a fast internet connection, co-working spaces, and numerous cafes. Colombo's main attractions include the Gangaramaya Temple, the National Museum, and the Beira Lake.

Cost of Living: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week range from $30-$40. Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant and one drink costs around $15.

Nomad Tip: Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple that also functions as a museum and a library. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Fort area of Colombo is where most digital nomads choose to stay, as it offers the best selection of furnished rentals and cafes. For dining, try the Helix One or the Ministry of Crab, both popular among locals and travelers.