sri lanka nice places to visit

18 of the best things to do in Sri Lanka

Jul 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Experience the best of the island nation of Sri Lanka with these top things to do, like visiting the Sigiriya rock fortress.

Sri Lanka may only be small, but thanks to its jungle-clad mountains, golden sandy beaches , abundant wildlife in their natural habitats, and spice-laden cuisines, this island nation ensures visitors are never bored.

From remarkable train rides and fine dining across the capital Colombo to world-class surfing and chic beachside cafes in the south of the country, here are 18 of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

1. Watch sunrise over Little Adam’s Peak 

Not to be confused with Adam’s Peak, the sacred mountain near Hatton that involves an arduous 5000-step climb, Little Adam’s Peak is a popular, easy-to-do hike for those visiting the tourist hub of Ella. Start your one-hour hike early in the morning when it’s dark outside so you don't miss the sunrise from the summit. Hikers wanting more can then trek Ella Rock and follow a path leading to Nine Arch Bridge.  

Ella itself is a laid-back place. Many stay outside the town, but travelers should immerse themselves in the cafe scene at Cafe Chill . Adventure buffs can go ziplining. While Ella deserves the hype, there are other quaint mountain towns that are also worth visiting nearby: Ohiya, Idalgashinna, Haputale, and Wellawaya. 

2. Taste the world's best cinnamon on Ganduwa Island

Southern Sri Lanka produces some of the world's best cinnamon, a lighter, more sweeter variety than is found in Indonesia and Vietnam. Travelers can learn about the highly prized Ceylon cinnamon by visiting Ganduwa Island on Koggala Lake , just south of Galle , by boat.

Generational peelers spend their days here skillfully shaving thin layers of the tree’s inner bark to create quills of cinnamon. You can buy these plus small packets of cinnamon powder and cinnamon oil here. The boat then takes passengers to some of the other islands. Grab a glass of fresh kirala (mangrove apple) juice from a local vendor on the jetty as you leave.

3. Bird-watch in Bundala National Park

Home to nearly 200 species of native and migratory birds, Bundala National Park is a Ramsar-recognized wetland in the south of the country. Bird-watching tours start at 6am and run for 3 to 4 hours as the park comes alive with brahminy kites, hundreds of storks, families of whistling wild ducks, Asian green bee-eaters, dancing peacocks, and resting crocodiles. Come the afternoon, wild Asian elephants, spotted deer and wild boar roam amongst the Weera, Neem and Palu trees.

Planning tip:  For the best chance of spotting wildlife, arrange a 4WD safari with a tour operator. Look for offices just outside the park in Bundala Junction.

4. Climb Pidurangala to see the sunrise over the jungle

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting the Sigiriya , a massive rock fortress with ruins of an ancient palace, water gardens, and frescos near the giant rock Pidurangala . Early birds should buckle up their hiking shoes and climb up Pidurangala at 5am for sunrise, but if you are not a morning person, head here for sunset before the ticket office closes at 6pm.

Planning tip:  The entrance fee is US$36 for this 45-minute climb. The summit overlooks the majestic lion-shaped Sigiriya rock surrounded by tropical jungles and artificial lakes. To reach the top you’ll pass through a Buddhist temple, so carry a shawl or a sarong to cover up.

5. Go kitesurfing on the remote Kalpitiya Peninsula

With numerous flatwater lagoons and plenty of steady wind, Sri Lanka’s northwestern coast offers some of the best kitesurfing in the world. A 3.5-hour drive north of Colombo is the lesser-explored Kalpitiya Peninsula, which is still relatively new to many overseas tourists. The region is home to sandy beaches and small fishing hamlets with droves of wild donkeys strolling around large grasslands.

Stop in Kappalady on the Indian Ocean for kitesurfing lessons with local instructors at Kite Center Sri Lanka . The kite school can arrange kitesurfing safaris (tours) to nearby spots such as Donkey Point, Dutch Bay and Vella Island for more experienced kiteboarders.

Other activities in Kappalady include exploring the lagoons by kayak and ethical dolphin-watching tours where large pods of spinner dolphins swim in their hundreds. Note: Good operators will only charter small boats, keep their distance from the pods, and avoid feeding the animals.

Planning tip: There are a few accommodation options by the beach in Kappalady.

6. Camp in the Haputale mountains

An hour by bus from Ella are the misty mountains of Haputale, a region dotted with tea plantations and icy-cold streams. Stay in a local family-run campsite, such as the Eco Lodge Haputale  run by the Dias family. After a few cups of sugary milk tea at their home, they will walk you through a tea garden to their campground made up of several tents with a small kitchen and a dining area that opens up to the Haputale mountains. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and enjoy the sunrise – it’s the highlight of a stay here.

7. Take a train ride from Colombo 

When it comes to experiences in Sri Lanka, taking a train journey is a must . For mountain views coupled with tea gardens, British colonial-era railway stations, and gushing water bodies, take the Colombo to Ella train journey, which also passes through the Instagram-famous Nine Arch Bridge. There are several trains that pass through the route, but since it’s quite popular among travelers, make sure you reserve your tickets beforehand.

But don't just stop there. Hop on a coastal train heading south towards Galle from Colombo for the views of the Indian Ocean and swaying palms. Next, board a train riding up north to Jaffna  – you will notice changing landscapes as you go past Anuradhapura when green rice fields and coconut trees are replaced by palmyra palms, shrubs, and barren soil. 

Planning tip:  Other than local families, travelers, and daily commuters, you'll find plenty of vendors on the trains selling cups of tea, instant coffee, chili-sprinkled fresh fruits, roasted peanuts, yogurt, and even mobile top-up cards. 

8. Feast on Sri Lankan crabs

Sri Lankan crabs sell fast in Singapore’s fine-dining restaurants, and rarely make it to the menu back home. But that’s starting to change: for an upmarket taster in Colombo, head to the Ministry of Crab inside the Dutch Hospital Complex . For something more local, you can’t beat the Mayura Hotel in Pettah Market . 

Planning tip:  If you’re in the north of the country, you must try the Jaffna crab curry from Cosy Restaurant near the Jaffna Railway Station, which comes with a punchy, spicy kick.

9. Look for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard at Wilpattu National Park

Most visitors to Yala National Park want to see the endangered Sri Lankan leopard. However, overcrowding is common and safari 4WDs have been known to scare the animals away.

For a better and more conscientious safari experience, head to Wilpattu National Park in the northwest of the island and book with a responsible operator like Leopard Trails . Their guides don't chase after possible sightings, but they do turn off their vehicle engines near animals. They will also whisper near any sighting so as not to disturb the animals. As well as leopards, the park is also home to Asian elephants, sloth bears, and bark deer all in their natural habitats.

Alternatively, Kumana National Park , in the eastern part of Yala, is a good place for bird-watchers. If luck prevails, you may just come across a leopard napping on a rugged boulder too.

10. Witness the largest wild Asian elephant gathering in the world

Sri Lanka is home to an estimated 4000 wild Asian elephants, best seen in their natural habitats, the country’s national parks . During the dry months from July to September, the large reservoirs in Kaudulla and Minneriya National Parks draw herds of wild Asian elephants where they graze on grass, bathe and play together. Hot days see elephants sheltering in the nearby jungles, but in the afternoon, around 4pm, they slowly emerge. This is your chance to see hundreds of the creatures hanging out by the lakes, the largest gathering of wild elephants in the world.

Planning tip:  Skip places where elephants are held in captivity – except for the Elephant Transit Home in Uda Walawe . Run by the government wildlife department, with support from the Born Free Foundation , this halfway house takes in abandoned and injured elephant calves and returns them to the wild once they have recuperated. 

11. Eat traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in Unawatuna

Sri Lankans enjoy curry and rice for at least one meal a day – sometimes for all three – and while there are plenty of great places to try the national dish, Mettha's Home Cooked Meals, sandwiched between the cafes and souvenir shops of Unawatuna, in the south of Sri Lanka is among the best. Freshly prepared onsite by Aunty Mettha herself (with a little support from her family), the creamy Sri Lankan dal in coconut milk is a must.

Planning tip:  If you fancy learning how to cook curry dishes, head over to the family-run Sea Waves Restaurant in Unawatuna , but don’t leave without trying the whole butterfish cooked in a secret umami-rich homemade sauce.

12. Learn the life of Sri Lanka's indigenous people

The Vedda are the indigenous people of Sri Lanka. Originally forest-dwellers, their numbers have dwindled over the years due to migration, habitat loss, and assimilation into the nation's dominant Sinhala-Buddhist culture. Now scattered across the island in small numbers, some Vedda families still preserve their native language, cuisines and rituals in places like Dambana, an indigenous village and museum in the southern part of Maduru Oya National Park.

Planning tip:  For a more immersive experience, head east to Gal Oya where you can take tours with the Vedda to see their ancient caves and hunting grounds. Wild Glamping Gal Oya works closely with the Vedda community to organize ethical encounters. 

13. Try kottu roti street food

No other meal captures Sri Lanka quite like kottu roti . This popular street food is a carb-heavy mishmash of fresh vegetables, leftover roti (flatbread), and eggs, plus a choice of meat or seafood. Thrown together onto a metal griddle and chopped into tiny slices using two metal blades, you can often hear the distinct clink-clink-clink of metal on metal from a few hundred feet away.  Kottu roti is available across the island, but try it in Colombo from Hotel de Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza (note: Sri Lankan restaurants are often named "hotels").

Planning tip:  Don’t get deceived by any Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza, though – there are numerous holes-in-the-wall with the same name – the originals are on Galle Road in Colombo 03. Order yours with a glass of iced Milo (a popular chocolate malt drink), which goes perfectly with a sizzling hot kottu .

14. Explore the quirky lanes of Galle Fort

Galle Fort is an eccentric mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architectural influences surrounded by spas, luxury hotels, souvenir shops, ice cream parlors and gem boutiques. Come in the morning hours when the Fort lanes slowly open up. First, eat a hearty Sri Lankan breakfast at National Tea Rooms , which is the oldest existing cafe in Galle Fort run by a friendly Sri Lankan family since 1932. 

Shop for postcards and wall posters with funky Sri Lankan graphics, tuk-tuks and vintage maps at Stick No Bills . For lunch, don’t miss the peppery black pork curry at Church Street Social . The view from the ramparts is a must-see, especially during sunset. 

15. Chase the waves with Sri Lanka’s first local female-run surf club

Surfers of all levels head to Arugam Bay on the east coast. During the season from April to August, this curl of soft, ocher sand comes alive at night with parties, booze and live music. It also has a laid-back surf scene, including the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club , the first all-women club in Sri Lanka, which holds swimming, surfing and yoga lessons for the community.

Planning tip:  The beach shacks that dot the shoreline serve delicious Sri Lankan roti stuffed with chocolate, banana, chicken, cheese and vegetables for a post-surf pick-me-up.

16. Cycle through the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa

Following the fall of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa became the second capital of Sri Lanka from 1070 to 1232, and the ruins of this ancient city are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the Vatadage, a circular relic house with a large Buddha statue. Beyond that, cycle through the ancient city and pay a visit to the ancient Royal Palace .

Other impressive archaeological relics, including the standing Buddha in Lankatilaka Vihara and a series of Buddha statues carved out of granite in Gal Vihara . You can see the South Indian influence in some of the remains – this is because the ancient kingdom faced several South Indian invasions back then.

Planning tip:  Arrive early in the morning to beat the sweltering sun and get the best of this wonderful archaeological park to yourself. The Polonnaruwa ruins are crowded during weekends, school holidays, and on the full moon.

17. Get close to nature with a stay in a treehouse

Nature lovers will enjoy the experience of sleeping in a treehouse. Surrounded by the nearby jungle, these houses are built on a wooden platform up the tree. Book one of the treehouses at Back of Beyond in Sigiriya if you don’t mind visiting lizards and monkeys. 

For those who are in the far south of Sri Lanka, Tangalle is a mix of rugged sandy beaches, lagoons and shrublands. Here, Jaywa Lanka has a treehouse next to the mangroves; you’ll only hear the faint hum of crashing waves and twittering of birds. Occasional visitors include wild peacocks trying to charm their peahens. 

18. Snack on hoppers

If there’s one thing to try before you leave Sri Lanka, it’s hoppers ( aappa in Sinhala; appam in Tamil), bowl-like pancakes made from rice flour batter. With crispy edges and fluffy centers, plain hoppers are eaten with curries or a spicy sambal (chili paste) called lunu miris made with onions and dried red chili. 

Walk into a street joint in the evenings and you’ll often find plain hoppers topped with an egg. If you are in Colombo, head to Palmyrah Restaurant  in Renuka Hotel for some Sri Lankan fine dining; the dinner menu includes both savory and sweet hoppers with milk or jaggery. Or, if you don’t mind long lines, try some hoppers from Aunty Radhika in the Wellawatta neighborhood. Walk past the bank on WA Silva Mawatha to find this small, but popular, hopper stall.

This article was first published Feb 6, 2022 and updated Jul 29, 2024.

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31 Amazing Things to do in Sri Lanka, The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

Stunning, friendly, and full of adventure: Sri Lanka really is a bite-sized Utopia! From cultural highlights to outdoors adventures, these are our favourite things to do and the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, plus our travel guide & top tips for visiting!

The teardrop isle. The pearl of the Indian Ocean. Serendib. Eelam. 

Whichever name you know Sri Lanka by, there’s definitely one thing we can all agree on: this bite-sized Utopia has boomed onto the travel scene in a big way over the last couple of years - and it’s definitely here to stay.

Sri Lanka is one of our favourite countries, and part of that appeal lies in just how much it has to offer on such little territory.

For a country, roughly the same size as Ireland, this small little island nation boasts an endless array of attractions; white beaches and pumping surf , lush tropical jungle and misty mountain towns , ancient World Heritage sites where elephants and leopards still roam, and enchanting train rides through rolling tea plantations.

In fact, after two separate trips there, we’re utterly convinced that there’ll never be enough time to discover all of the treasure Sri Lanka has up its sleeve - at least, not without a little help!

That’s why we’ve put together our guide for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, divided into adventure, cultural, natural, and foodie experiences to help you discover this beautiful island for yourself.

From rope swings at Dalawella to spotting leopards in Yala , discovering ancient rock fortresses to authentic slices of life in local markets, we’ve got you covered!

TRANSFORM YOUR SRI LANKA PHOTOS | We’ve just released our brand new collection of presets, inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country! Check out the full range of presets here

SRI LANKA BUCKET LIST | THE PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA

Adventure experiences | the best places to visit in sri lanka, #1 jump on sri lanka’s southern coast rope swings.

To this day we're still amazed that a simple rope swing could have single-handedly turned a country into a travel 'hot spot', yet that's exactly what happened here in Sri Lanka.

Thanks to a couple of well-known travel instagrammers, the rope swings on the southern coast went viral on Instagram and before long every single visitor to the country wanted 'that shot'.

Although a little gimmicky, it really is a heap of fun and, considering the location and stunning tropical setting, is definitely one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka! The best rope swings are located at Dalawella beach and Mihiripenna beach, just south of Unawatuna, although others can be found all the way along the coast.

There are also a tonne of great things to do in the area, which you can read in our Unawatuna guide .

THE DETAILS

Where |  Dalawella Beach , Unawatuna

Cost | Generally LKR 500 for 5+ swings (and, in our opinion, a rare tourist trap that’s worth it!)

Where to stay in Unawatuna | Search and book Unawatuna hotels here

READ | Our ultimate guide to Unawatuna

welcome to paradise: sri lanka’s popular unawatuna beach

#2 hike to the top of sri lanka, adam’s peak (sri pada).

Watching the sun rise from the peak of Sri Pada, or Adam's Peak on the cusp of the Sinhalese New Year, remains one of our defining travel moments. 

After climbing the leg-burning 5,500 stairs to the summit, we waited for dawn to approach surrounded by hundreds of pilgrims from all religions. The nearby hill country slowly came into vision, before the sky turned all shades of pink, orange and finally blue. Pilgrims chanted, bells tolled, and tears were shed. 

Rising from the famous rolling hills of Sri Lanka's hill country, the summit of Sri Pada (Adam's Peak), is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country. It's also home to myth and legend for Buddhist, Islamic, Hindi and Christian faiths; the summit is said to be home to Buddha's footprint, where Adam set foot on Earth after being cast out of heaven, and Shiva's footprint. 

No matter whether you're religious or not, hiking to the top of Sri Pada, or Adam's Peak, is definitely one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. 

Where |  Sri Pada / Adam’s Peak

Cost | FREE

#3 LEARN TO SURF IN WELIGAMA

The whole southern coast of Sri Lanka is a surfer’s paradise; awesome breaks at just about every corner attract sliders from all over the world. 

For beginner surfers like us (we know, we’re terrible Australians!), it's also a great place to learn, with warm waters, cheap boards and easy waves the perfect combination to catch that first wave.

The best place to learn to surf along the coast is Weligama, located around 2.5 hours south of Colombo or 30 minutes from the popular town of Unawatuna . Built for surfers, there are hundreds of surf schools located right on the beach - just turn up, speak to a tout and you’ll be learning your way around a board just a few minutes later. 

A 1 - 1.5 hour lesson costs around LKR 2,500 per person, and will teach you the basics of surfing including how to stand up, paddling for a wave, surfing etiquette, and safety. Somehow, we both managed to stand within our first five waves, and the thrill was incredible. We're now 100% converted to surfing. 

If Weligama isn't your jam, you can learn to surf in many places on the south and east coast, including Unawatuna , Hiriketiya , and Arugam Bay. 

After a surf, go a hang out with the legends at Ceylon Sliders , a boutique hotel-cum-cafe-cum-surf store celebrating surf culture in Sri Lanka. They happen to have some of the best food in Sri Lanka, as well as the coolest staff we've ever met. 

Where |  Weligama, Sri Lanka

Cost | Lessons cost around LKR 2,500pp

Where to stay in Weligama | We recommend staying at Ceylon Sliders Alternatively, search and book your Weligama accommodation here

#4 ADMIRE THE STUNNING NINE ARCH BRIDGE, ELLA

It's weird to think that a bridge could become such an important place to visit in Sri Lanka, yet the Nine Arch Bridge just outside of Ella is exactly that. 

Flanked by verdant forests and tea plantations, the Nine Arch Bridge stands proudly across the valley below. Calling it picturesque would be doing it an understatement, particularly on a misty day when the cloud hangs low in the valley and creates a moody, mystical scene.

Completed in 1921, Nine Arch Bridge is built entirely out of brick, rock and cement, with no metal used in its construction - an incredible engineering feat back in those days. Spanning 91 meters and a height of 24 feet, the bridge is on the famous Kandy to Bandarawela (via Ella) train line , with trains passing around five times a day depending on the ever-changing Sri Lankan train timetable. 

There are plenty of epic viewpoints to see the bridge from. The most popular is the actual bridge itself, another is below from the tea plantation (this is private land, so please ask for permission before entering).

For us, the best views were from above, either looking from the forests surrounding the bridge or from one of the cafe platforms in the surrounding hills. Watching the train slowly make its way across the bridge is a wonderful sight!

Where |  Nine Arches Bridge, Ella

Where to stay in Ella | Search and book Ella accommodation here

READ | Our comprehensive guide to the Nine Arch Bridge , What to do in Ella - our comprehensive guide , our Kandy to Ella train guide

everything you need to know before visiting the nine arch bridge, ella

#5 hike to the top of ella rock.

High in Sri Lanka's hill country lies Ella , a formerly sleepy town that’s now one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka because of its natural beauty and epic hiking. 

One of the best things to do in Ella is the famous Ella rock hike, which offers spectacular views over Ella, Little Adam's Peak, and the surrounding jungle-clad valley. 

We started our hike at the famous Ella train station, following the Ella to Kandy train line past many beautiful waterfalls, bridges, tea plantations, and homes, before starting our ascent towards the Ella Rock summit, king coconut in hand for some extra energy. We needed it; the hike to the summit is tough!

We sat at the summit for at least an hour, enjoying a vegetarian roti and some well-deserved water while taking in the incredible views.

The route to the summit can be a little complicated, however if you follow the clearly marked paths and ignore the touts, you shouldn't have too many issues (this in-depth post will help you get there). 

All up, the hike takes around 2 hours roundtrip, but remember to pack enough water and snacks to power your journey as the days can get quite hot.

Where | Ella Rock, Ella

How to get to Ella Rock | We used this guide , and made it without any hassles!

READ | Our comprehensive guide to Ella, Sri Lanka

hill country exploring | our guide to ella, sri lanka

#6 diyaluma falls.

We know, we know, there’s a famous song telling you not to chase waterfalls, but you’re going to need to ignore that advice here as Sri Lanka's second tallest waterfall, Diyaluma, is impressive beyond words.

Cascading from high in the Sri Lankan mountains, Diyaluma falls may be a little off the beaten track, but the epic views and natural infinity pools make the trek worth the effort. After a two-hour tuk tuk ride from Ella to Poonagala, through quintessentially Sri Lankan tea plantations, we set off on foot, hiking downhill through long, dry grass for around 30mins before getting our first glimpse of the upper Diyaluma falls. 

A short walk further and there we were, standing at the lower Diyaluma Falls, above a sheer 220m rush of water to the valley floor below. We watched the sun set over the valley below from top of the falls, joined by a group of young local guys keen to chat about our travels (and cricket, of course!).

We flew our drone, snapped a few insta-bangers, and relaxed before reluctantly commencing our journey back to Ella.

READ | We’ve written a comprehensive guide to Diyaluma Falls, which you can read all about here !

Where |  Diyaluma Falls, Koslanda

READ | Check out our comprehensive guide to Diyaluma Falls here

#7 WATCH THE SUNSET FROM LITTLE ADAM’S PEAK, ELLA

Over the last few years, Ella has grown from sleepy hill town to one of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit, and it's not hard to understand why; the steep mountain ranges, unique natural beauty and incredible views make it very popular with tourists.

One of the most popular short hikes in the area is to the top of Little Adam's Peak. A golden afternoon we spent watching the world go by from Little Adam's peak was one of the highlights of our time in Sri Lanka on our first trip to the island in 2016.

The full hike takes about two hours from Ella town and starts in the lush tea plantations before slowly snaking its way to the first set of viewpoints. From here you'll have 360-degree views overlooking the giant Ella Rock and green valley towards Udawalawe , perfect for photos.

We'd definitely advise continuing the hike further down the ridge, as the views become more spectacular and less busy. Here, we sat and relaxed in the grass, eating our lunch while watching storm clouds form in the distance.

The return route follows the other side of the mountain, overlooking the incredible 98 Acres resort before slowly making its way back to Ella. Stop on the return journey back to relax and grab a refreshing king coconut or juice from the little wooden hut near the start of the trek!. 

We recommend hiking up during late afternoon and before watching glorious sunset unfold; and advise against hiking during the middle of the day as there's little shade to hide from the glaring sun (fun fact: our worst sunburns in 3 months of travel through Asia happened from doing this hike at midday!).

Where |  Little Adam’s Peak, Ella

READ | The very best things to do in Ella

our stay at tri hotel, sri lanka’s best eco-hotel

Nature experiences | the best places to visit in sri lanka, #8 spot leopards on safari in yala national park.

In our opinion, Yala National Park , which straddles the southeastern coastline of Sri Lanka, is a must-see on any Sri Lanka bucket list.

The 1268sq km park is home to a rich array of dunes, forests, open plains and lush lagoons, which also attracts a huge diversity of wildlife; 44 mammal species (including elephants) and over 215 bird species, to be exact!

Most visit Yala National Park for two reasons; the opportunity to see Leopards and Elephants in the wild. Yala contains one of the largest densities of Leopards in the world, with an estimated 25 leopards roaming Block 1 alone.

If you’ve dreamed of spotting these glorious creatures in the wild, a safari in Yala is absolutely your best chance to witness the elusive cats, while an elephant sighting is basically a given.

We were fortunate enough to see both during our early morning safari, stumbling across a beautiful elephant family at a watering hole, although our leopard sighting was only through a trusty set of long range binoculars. 

As Yala is so popular with locals and tourists alike, the safari routes can get very popular and crowded, especially when a leopard sighting has been reported. We were on safari the first morning that the park was open for the season and actually got stuck in a 30-minute traffic jam to see a Leopard!

To avoid this, we'd suggest visiting during shoulder season, or joining a safari tour group. Note: we actually booked our tour within minutes of arriving in the nearby town of Tissa, as there are plenty of drivers/guides waiting at the station to book passengers for the next day. Easy peasy!

Where |  Yala National park, Southeast Sri Lanka

Cost | LKR 3,500 per person

Where to stay in Yala National Park | Search and book Yala National Park accommodation here

PLAN | Our detailed guide to Yala National Park

#9 ELEPHANT SPOTTING ON SAFARI IN UDAWALAWE NP

If Yala National Park is the place to spot Leopards in the wild, then Udawalawe National Park is definitely the place to visit in Sri Lanka to spot elephants. In fact, during our early morning safari, we spotted well over 15 elephants including a number of impossibly cute bubs.

Sprawling across the southern lowlands, nestled near the towering Horton Plains, Udawalawe is one of the most popular parks in Sri Lanka. Although the park's landscape is fairly monotonous, it provides the best viewing opportunities for elephants and other fauna. 

It’s also possible to spot buffalo, monkeys, deer, crocodiles and leopards (although the latter is extremely rare). 

In many ways, we preferred our safari in Udawalawe than Yala National Park, mostly due to the numerous elephant sightings, and the lack of crowds which overrun Yala in peak season.

Where | Udawalawe National Park

Cost | LKR 3,500 per person entry. A eight-seater safari jeep will cost around LKR 3,500 for a morning hire

Where to stay in Udawalawe  | Search and book Uda Walawe National Park accommodation here

PLAN | How to visit Udawalawe National Park

#10 STAY IN JUNGLE HEAVEN AT TRI LANKA, KOGGALA LAKE

“Guided by nature, evolved by aesthetic passion, and fortified by an all-encompassing sustainable philosophy.”

It’s not often that you’ll find us raving over luxury accommodation - so when we do, you can be sure it’s because we’ve stumbled across something pretty special.

Tri Lanka , a five-star sustainable, luxury retreat nestled into the jungle that surrounds Koggala Lake on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is truly one of the greatest accommodation experiences we’ve ever had. Not only is the entire hotel absolutely stunning, but everything about Tri is designed to be in, and of, the nature that surrounds it.

From the construction and design that incorporates local materials and the most up-to-date sustainable practices right through to the locally-sourced (and seasonal) gourmet food served in the restaurant; Tri Hotel is turning the image of sustainable travel on its head by marrying conscious travel and blissful luxury together perfectly.

It’s also focused on nurturing your body, mind, and soul, which means there are plenty of activities available, including Quantum yoga classes, bicycles tours of the local village, boat trips out to Cinnamon island, a beautiful organic spa and glass-walled library and reading room, and if all that wasn’t enough to keep you satisfied, there that insta-famous infinity pool too. Bliss!

This is the ultimate splurge and one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, but trust us, it’s worth it (read all about our time at Tri Hotel here ).

Where | Tri Lanka, Koggala Lake

BOOK | Tri Hotel can be booked on Booking.com

READ | Sustainable luxury in the heart of Sri Lanka - our stay at Tri Hotel

#11 WATCH SUNSET FROM GALLE FORT WALL

There’s just something about that glorious technicolour end to a day that feels more special in Galle Fort than anywhere else we’ve visited.

Each afternoon at around 5:30pm, locals and tourists alike gather along the Fort walls to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean. It’s a festive and happy affair; cricket games are played on the grass below, whole families gather to see of the last of the day, and travellers mingle and chat while Mother Nature streaks the sky all kinds of shades of blue, orange, pink and purple.

The best point to watch the sunset from is the Triton Bastion, however you can watch the sunset from pretty much any point on the western side of the Fort walls and be guaranteed a great view.

Don’t forget to keep a lookout for the cliff jumpers at Flag Rock too; each evening a group of locals defy danger by leaping backwards off the ramparts to the ocean below.

Where | Triton Bastion , Rampart St, opposite Pilgrims Bar

Where to stay in Galle Fort | Search and book Galle Fort accommodation here

READ | Our comprehensive guide to Galle Fort, Sri Lanka , the best hotels in Galle

charming & exotic: our guide to sri lanka’s galle fort

#12 hang in mirissa and visit the famous coconut tree hill of mirissa.

Mirissa  is home to one the prettiest beaches on the southern coast, and after spending five nights chilling out in this laidback coastal town we definitely weren’t ready to leave.

Each day we'd swim, eat, and surf. Each night, we'd make our way down to the beach to watch the sunset (a very typical evening during our month in Sri Lanka), marvelling at the kaleidoscope of colours that lit up the sky. 

Although there are plenty of things to see and do in Mirissa, one of our favourite places to visit in Sri Lanka was the insta-famous and delightful Coconut Tree Hill . Although it’s been plastered all over social media, it really is a beautiful and unique place to see with your own eyes, with literally hundreds of palms jutting out of this small, burnt orange hill.

Located at the eastern end of Mirissa beach , the views over Mirissa are spectacular, and there are plenty of places to just chill and watch the world go by. Although it's gaining in popularity quickly, early mornings are relatively free from crowds, while a clear evening will gift you some pretty epic sunset views from here.

For anyone thirsty, there’s a small makeshift bar nearby for a quick sundowner!

Where |  Mirissa beach

Where to stay in Mirissa | Search and book Mirissa beach accommodation here

How to get to Coconut Tree Hill, Mirissa  | Walk along the Matara Rd out of Mirissa until you reach  Maison D’hotes Sanda Beach .

From there, follow the path on your right and you’ll come to a gate, from which you should be able to walk directly to the palm trees.

#13 ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS OF PERADENIYA, NEAR KANDY

We're huge fans of sprawling city parks, and the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya in Kandy are amongst the best we've visited anywhere in the world. 

Formerly reserved exclusively for Kandyan Royals and with a history dating back to 1371, Peradeniya was turned into botanical gardens in 1821 at the behest of the British.

The gardens are now home to over 10,000 trees spread across 60 hectares (the largest garden in the country), showcasing all of Sri Lanka’s flora and species from around the tropical world, including their famous orchid collection.

We definitely recommend visiting the impressive and insta-worthy avenue of royal palms; a beautiful tree-lined pathway on the interior of the gardens. The unique and otherworldly Cannonball tree, planted by King George and Queen Mary during their visit in 1901, is another must-see on your garden strolls.  

The gardens and its lawns are a great way to escape the hustle, bustle and fierce heat of Kandy’s streets, and are definitely our favourite place to visit in Kandy . 

Where | Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, Kandy

Cost | LKR 1,500 per person entry

Where to stay in Kandy | Search and book accommodation in Kandy here

How to get to Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya | You can hire a tuk tuk to the gardens for around LKR 400 or include the gardens in a Kandy day tour itinerary. A cheaper alternative is the #644 bus from the Kandy Clock Tower, which will take you directly to the garden for around LKR 20.

READ | Our guide to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s capital of culture

sri lanka’s cultural capital | our guide to kandy

#14 chill and surf at hiriketiya beach.

After a long and sweaty three hour tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna , we arrived into Hiriketiya Bay on the southern coast of Sri Lanka not sure what to expect. It was love at first sight.

Palm-fringed golden sands, surfers carving up sweet left-handers, cool cafes serving up incredibly fresh brunch worthy of any Melbourne cafe; this was a place so beautiful, so peaceful, and so perfect that we knew we'd definitely arrived in heaven.

What was once a sleepy hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s south coast with little more than a few wooden huts is fast becoming the ‘it’ place for digital nomads and their acai bowls, bronzed surfers riding waves all day long, and salty-haired wanderers chilling into a new level of zen.

There are surf shops that wouldn’t look out of place in any cool coastal town, beachside bars serving up cocktails from mason jars, and even a co-working space, (one of the first in Sri Lanka) has popped up in recent years.

Despite all this progress, Hiriketiya still manages to be the kind of place where thick jungle meets the sea and time becomes totally irrelevant - and we absolutely love it for that.

Where |  Hiriketiya Beach

Where to stay in Hiriketiya | Search and book Hiriketiya accommodation here

READ | Our ultimate guide to Hiriketiya

where jungle meets the sea: our guide to hiriketiya, sri lanka

#15 hike to the summit of pidurangala rock for sunrise.

While there's no doubting Sigiriya's astounding beauty, historical significance, and dramatic features, at USD $30pp, it can be a little expensive for those on a strict budget. 

Fortunately, Pidurangala rock, located adjacent to Sigiriya , provides equally epic views of the surrounding area, a historic cave complex of its own, a tenth of the crowds, and the most incredible view overlooking the famous Sigiriya rock. 

Hiking Pidurangala rock for sunrise has become something of a right of passage for backpackers visiting Sri Lanka, and we definitely recommend waking up early for this - it's a truly magical experience (read our complete guide to Pidurangala here). 

If you're looking to do both Pidurangala and Sigiriya, we recommend hiking Pidurangala for sunrise and summiting Sigiriya for sunset.

We stayed in a treehouse at Back of Beyond Pidurangala (check their website here ), a sustainable eco-lodge in the heart of the national park and only two minutes walk from the beginning of the Pidurangala hike.

We definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking for a unique experience in the Sigiriya/Pidurangala area!

Where |  Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya

Cost | LKR 500 per person

Where to stay in Pidurangala | Book Back of Beyond Pidurangala here

Read more | Our complete guide to Pidurangala

the best sigiriya views | our guide to pidurangala

Cultural experiences | the best places to visit in sri lanka, #16 explore the ancient rock fortress of sigiriya.

Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, Sigiriya is one of the 'must see' places on any Sri Lankan bucket list. 

Located right in the heart of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya, otherwise known as Lion Rock, is an ancient palace and fortress built in 480AD atop a unique rock island that rises 200m above the jungle below.

The Fortress, full of abandoned palaces, gardens, waterways and frescoes, has always been an important part of Sri Lanka history, and has seen many wars and invasions play out over the years.

Thankfully, it’s appeal today is a little less gruesome, and it’s become one of the country’s most visited cultural heritage sites (read our guide to Sigiriya here ).

Starting in the gardens, the hike to the summit of Sigiriya is demanding; it is 1200 steps after all. You’ll then pass through ancient frescoes, the 1600 year-old Mirror Wall, and the famous lion paws.

Although arduous and a little sweaty (even at 8am we were drenched!), the hike is absolutely worth it -  the view from the top is awe-inspiring; weathered stone ruins overlook the dense jungle, surrounding plains, and the incredible fortress grounds below.

A note on the entry fee for Sigiriya; there’s plenty of debate around as to whether the (admittedly, very steep) entrance fee of USD $30 for Sigiriya is worth it. We visited in 2016 and splurged on visiting the fortress with absolutely no regrets - it really is a super unique and interesting site.

That said, Pidurangala (above) does provide some pretty epic views over Sigiriya, so if money’s not on your side, we’d recommend visiting Pidu instead.

Where |  Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Cost | USD $30pp for entry to Sigiriya

Where to stay in Sigiriya | We recommend Back of Beyond Pidurangala , or search and book accommodation in Sigiriya here

READ | Our complete guide to Sigiriya , Sri Lanka’s rock fortress wonder

sigiriya | an essential guide to sigiriya, sri lanka

#17 jump aboard the best train ride in the world, from kandy to ella.

Hotter than the London Underground in a summers day, yet takes eight hours and costs £5. Sounds a little like hell, but trust us, the train ride from Kandy to Ella is the best thing you'll do in Sri Lanka. 

Winding through misty forests, verdant tea plantations; over gushing waterfalls and streams; and past colourful towns and excitable locals, the train ride from Kandy to Ella is, in our opinion, the most picturesque in the world. But it's not just the scenery that makes this train ride so incredible. It's also the vibe. 

Each person you meet greets you with a smile, the local boys play sing, dance and play drums; vendors rush through the train selling chai and snacks, while tourists, head out the windows, stare in amazement at the sheer beauty. Literally everyone you look at is wide-eyed and happy, which in this day and age is hard to find.

The most scenic part of the journey is from Nanu Oya to Ella, through the dense forest of the Horton Plains national park, so we recommend getting the window seat or standing in between the doorways here and enjoying the views as they pass by.

When we first visited Sri Lanka is 2016, the Kandy to Ella train ride was yet to really hit the big time with tourists, however due to its current popularity, you’ll need to book your travel in advance (usually a few days prior). The train may also be quite crowded (especially during peak season), so be warned you may need to push your way onto the train. 

Third class may be the cheapest option but in our opinion it's also the best, as it allows you to sit/hang out of the doorways, and is filled with friendly locals keen to help you enjoy your experience.

Where |  Kandy train station, Kandy , or Ella Train Station, Ella

Cost | 2nd class: LKR 240 per person, 3rd class: LKR 175 per person

Kandy to Ella train times | Express trains depart Ella to Kandy - 0640 and 0924 (subject to change)

READ | Our guide to the Kandy to Ella train (including booking details!), and our guides to Kandy and Ella

kandy to ella train | everything you need to know

#18 explore the magical galle fort.

Galle Fort is unlike any other place we’ve found in Sri Lanka; a vaguely European-feeling city plonked in the deliciously salty tropics, a melting pot of culture and religion bursting with colour, and where, thankfully, the taste of Ceylon tea and cinnamon is never far away.

The Fort is rapidly gentrifying as chic boutiques, cafes, and hotels begin to restore the whitewashed Dutch colonial buildings back to their former glory, but it only takes ducking down a quiet laneway to feel as though you’ve travelled back to the 1700s again.

Alluring, exotic, and totally loveable, Galle Fort is one of the unmissable points of interest on your Sri Lankan itinerary (you can learn all about Galle Fort with our guide ).

Some of the Galle Fort attractions we recommend you visit are:

Galle Fort Lighthouse | First built in 1848, this the most instantly recognisable feature of the Fort

Galle Fort walls | The best place to watch an amazing Sri Lankan sunset

Shop | Peddler St is the place to find all the beautiful linens, spices, opals and more

Dutch Reform Church | Historic Dutch church dating back to 1640

Old Dutch Hospital | Colonnaded former hospital dating back to the 18th century

All Saints Anglican Church | Built in the late 1800's from solid rock

Meeran Mosque | The centre of the local Muslim community, built in 1904

Sudharmalaya Temple | Beautiful white Buddhist temple within Galle Fort

Where |  Galle Fort

Where to stay in Galle | Search and book Galle Fort accommodation here

READ | Our comprehensive Galle Fort guide , where to stay in Galle Fort

sunsets and lighthouses: discover the best of galle fort

#19 walk or cycle through the historical ancient city of polonnaruwa.

Once the capital of ancient Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa now forms part of the famed cultural triangle of Sri Lanka.

Built between the 10th and 12th centuries, it quickly became the thriving commercial and religious epicentre if the country. Made up of a series of temples and religious buildings, the ancient site looks and feels like the Angkor temples of Cambodia, just not as grand or well-preserved. That being said, the site is still wonderful to explore.

The best things to see within the Polonnaruwa complex include:

Gal Vihara | a complete ancient Buddha statue hewn out of solid stone

The Sacred Quadrangle | is definitely the most attractive and intriguing of all the ruins

The Royal Palace | a massive structure dating from 1153

Rankot Vihara | 54m tall large dagoba, still in excellent condition, dating from 1187

Lankatilaka | impressive church-like structure with 17m high walls and huge, standing Buddha

There's also an archaeological museum that's worth a visit to get an understanding of the complex and its long history.

Our visit coincided with the hottest month, April, so exploring the site was tough due to the oppressive heat. We hired a tuk-tuk to drive us to the best spots, which made exploring mildly possible. Alternatively, the best way to explore the Polonnaruwa complex is via bike.

Where |  Polonnaruwa

Cost | LKR 4,500 ($25 USD) entry fee to Polonnaruwa

Where to stay in Polonnaruwa | Search and book Polonnaruwa accommodation here

READ MORE | Our complete guide to Polonnaruwa

#20 ROAM THROUGH SRI LANKA’S NORTHERN CAPITAL OF JAFFNA

The first thing you'll realise upon arriving into Jaffna is just how different it is from the rest of Sri Lanka.

These northern realms of Sri Lanka beat to their own drum, lead by the Tamils and a strong Hindu culture so entirely separate from the Sinhalese and Buddhist culture of the south.

Colourful Hindu temples dot the region, frequented by sari-clad women and shirtless men praying to the gods. The language is distinct, the people more reserved, and the cuisine influenced strongly by Southern India. 

Despite the lack of rope swings and insta-famous locations, Jaffna has an incredible amount of unique things for you to see and do, including ancient forts and temples, isolated islands, and truly amazing food. 

Some of the Jaffna attractions we recommend you visit are:

Explore the ancient Jaffna Dutch Fort

Admire the colourful and ancient Nallur Kandiswamy Hindu temple

Eat the best Masala Dosa at Mangos

Roam the colourful Jaffna markets and chat with the inquisitive and friendly locals

The region’s still a while away from truly exploding as a tourism destination, but for those like us who were searching for an authentic travel experience and to understand this diverse little island better, Jaffna is absolutely a place we recommend you visit in Sri Lanka.

Where |  Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka

Where to stay in Jaffna | Search and book Jaffna accommodation here

READ | Our guide to the best things to see and do in Jaffna , plus everything you need to know about Jaffna before you go

visit sri lanka’s north: the best things to do in jaffna

#21 experience an authentic insight into life of delft island, jaffna.

A day-trip to Delft Island ( Neduntheevu  in Tamil, or  Neduntivu in Sinhala) is a totally unique, authentic experience in Sri Lanka - but be warned, getting there is half the fun!

Located about 30kms from Jaffna city, Delft is an outlying coral and limestone island with a history that dates from the ancient  Chola Dynasty , through the Portuguese, Dutch and the British Colonial periods. It's absolutely not your stereotypical postcard-worthy island, but that's all part of its charm. 

Visiting the island was like stepping wayyyyy back in time, with tiny villages and windy dirt roads, ancient rock walls and lush palms swaying in the breeze. While it is still an inhabited island, remnants of the island’s past are dotted throughout. We recommend hiring a tuktuk and visiting the following sites:

Portuguese/Dutch Fort | Ruined ancient Fort, originally built by the Portuguese, and turned into a Fort by the Dutch

Delft Island baobab tree | Huge baobab native to tropical Africa, left by Arab merchants

Old Dutch Hospital | Built by the Dutch and converted into an administrative centre in the early 1900's. In 'The Courts', there's a British Emblem inscribed on the wall

Pigeon Nest | A unique structure used to house messenger pigeons to other areas during the Dutch reign

Dutch Horse Stables | Crumbling horse stables built during the Dutch occupation, housing horses from all over the world

Where |  Delft Island, off the coast of Jaffna

How to get to Delft island |  From Jaffna you need to get to Kurikadduwan harbour, about an hour away. Take the 776 from Jaffna bus station (LKR 90 per person), departing at 6:30, or a tuk tuk (LKR 2,000). 

The ferry for Delft leaves at 8am or 9am (LKR 100 per person), with a maximum number of 100 passengers, so it's important to get there 30mins before departure.  Returning home, we recommend catching the 14:30 ferry back to Kurikadduwan harbour.

READ | Our day trip guide to Delft Island

#22 ADMIRE THE ROYAL ROCK CAVE TEMPLE OF DAMBULLA

The famous Royal rock temple complex of Dambulla is home to some of the most impressive historical artwork in Sri Lanka, and a must-see on any Sri Lankan itinerary.

Sitting proudly atop a 160m rock, this UNESCO World Heritage site contains five separate caves with over 150 Buddhist statues and paintings, some dating back over 2,000 years. These are related to Gautama Buddha and his life, with murals covering over 2,100 square metres of cave walls, including depictions of the temptation by the demon Mara, and Buddha's first sermon. 

During the 18th century, the caves were restored and painted by the  Kingdom of Kandy .

The views from atop the rock are incredible, overlooking the surrounding valley, with Sigiriya in the distance; just watch out for the monkeys as they can be rather vicious! 

Where |  Dambulla cave temple complex , Dambulla

Opening hours | 07:00am - 19:00pm every day (ticket counter closes 17:00pm)

Cost | LKR 1,500

Where to stay in Dambulla | Search and book Dambulla accommodation here

#23 UNDERSTAND SRI LANKA’S SPIRITUAL SIDE AT THE TEMPLE OF THE SACRED TOOTH RELIC, KANDY

Built around a thriving man-made lake and tucked away in lush green hills; Kandy ’s beauty and charm almost makes you forget that this is Sri Lanka’s chaotic second-largest city, not to mention its cultural capital! After all, this is the home of the Temple of the Tooth, the most important shrine to the country’s majority Sinhalese population.

The ornate, golden-roofed Sri Dalada Maligawa (literally, Temple of the Sacred Tooth), houses the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka - a tooth of Buddha brought to the island in the 4th century. Built between 1687 and 1707 to house and honour the sacred relic, the temple has long been a place of spiritual and cultural importance for both Sri Lankan and international visitors. 

The tooth relic itself is enshrined in seven golden caskets, opened briefly during the day for the public to catch a glimpse. Visitors provide offerings and prayers, before moving on to explore the several other temples and museums within the complex.

If you visit Kandy during the annual Perahera (festival of the tooth), you may see the tooth paraded around the city accompanied by 65 decorated Elephants. Note: in no way do we condone, celebrate, or encourage the use of animals for entertainment purposes.

THE DETAILS 

Where |  Temple of the Sacred Tooth relic, Kandy

Opening hours | 05:30am - 20:00pm, every day

Cost | LKR 1,000

Where to stay in Kandy | Search and book Kandy accommodation here

Read more | The best things to do in Kandy

#24 VISIT LIPTON SEAT AND TEA PLANTATIONS

Tea is synonymous with Sri Lanka, and the name Lipton is synonymous with tea.

It was only natural then, that we wanted to visit Lipton Seat, the famous viewpoint whereby entrepreneur and tea mogul Sir Thomas Lipton used to sit and contemplate his vast plantation and the magnificence of Sri Lanka's high country, to sample some of the world's finest tea, straight from its source. 

Despite heavy rain and dense fog surrounding the summit upon our arrival, we managed to enjoy a fresh cup of Sri Lankan tea (LKR 50 per person), while watching the clouds roll by. The tea, we both agreed, was by far the best we've ever consumed. 

Unfortunately we weren't able to enjoy the panoramic views as we would have liked, however our tuk tuk driver said that on a clear day you can see as far as Uda Walawe National park, and all the way to Hambantota port. Despite the weather, the drive from Haputale station through the verdant tea fields and colourful towns was joyous enough. 

If you're looking to visit Lipton Seat from Ella , we advise taking the 6am Ella to Kandy train and jumping off a Haputale (any additional time on that train is well worth it - it's amazing!), and then paying a tuk tuk driver to take you to Lipton Seat from the station (LKR 2,000 - 3,000 for a return trip). We recommend including a tour of the tea factory (more on this below) during your visit. 

A visit to Lipton Seat and the tea plantation tour should take around four hours, providing you with enough time to return to the station for the 11am return train to Ella. 

Alternatively, you can organise a tuk tuk tour from Ella which will include a visit to Nuwara Eliya, Lipton Seat, and a tea factory tour. 

Where | Lipton Seat,  This is located about 18 km from Haputale (7km from Dambetenna Tea Factory)

Cost | LKR 100 per person. If arriving via tuk tuk, a LRK 50 charge applies

Opening hours | 6am - 5pm daily

How to get to Lipton Seat | Catch the Ella to Kandy train to Haputale, and organise a tuk tuk to take you to Lipton seat. This should cost around LKR 2,000 - 3,000. Alternatively include Lipton Seat as part of a day tour from Ella

#25 EXPLORE SRI LANKA’S MARKETS, EVERYWHERE

Given the incredible range and quality of produce on the island, it's easy to understand why Sri Lanka has vibrant markets on just about every corner.

Not only are these markets a great place to sample some of Ceylon’s finest, they’re a great place to meet and interact with the locals and maybe grab a bargain or two. 

Our favourite markets included Jaffna , which was raw, colourful, unfiltered and full of characters, while the fruit markets just outside Galle Fort were home to some of the freshest and tastiest fruit we've ever eaten. 

#26 CATCH AN AUTHENTIC LOCAL BUS

If you're visiting Sri Lanka, travelling around the country as the locals do is the cheapest way to do it. But besides that, catching a local bus in Sri Lanka is one of the most truly authentic, exhilarating (if not sometimes downright terrifying!) experiences you can have on this little island.

Old-skool Lanka Ashok Leyland buses tear down roads and highways, horns blaring non-stop, pausing momentarily to pick up passengers, before accelerating with gusto to the next stop. Inside, the ambience is festive; Sinhalese pop music is played loudly, while colourful Buddhist deities are proudly displayed on the dash. It's a crazy, chaotic and exciting experience.

Did we mention they’re cheap? Because they’re seriously cheap, ranging from LKR 10 - 100 depending on the distance!

#27 STAY IN A LOCAL HOMESTAY

We can’t stress this enough: skip the hotels and hostels at least once in favour of staying in a local homestay. You absolutely will never regret it.

Sri Lankans are some of the kindest and most hospitable people on the planet, and their generosity is unmatched. They'll bend over backwards to make your stay enjoyable, like our hosts in Hiriketiya, who greeted us each morning with a huge smile, fresh Sri Lankan tea and bananas, and provided us with all the local recommendations, including where to eat, surf or explore. All at no extra cost. 

Staying in a homestay in Sri Lanka is the definitely the best way to meet locals, ask questions and enjoy an authentic stay.

If you’re travelling to Hiriketiya, please, please book a stay on Airbnb at the Mission House with Siri, Suba, and Dulanjan, the wonderful family we stayed with for three nights.

BOOK | Mission House, Hiriketiya

unsure about airbnb? here’s our comprehensive guide to airbnb (including a free coupon!)

Food experiences |  the best things to eat in sri lanka, #28 indulge in rice and curry.

"Rice and curry for my tummy, rice and curry, yummy yummy". Yes, this is an actual song Mark made up during our time in Sri Lanka, much to Mim’s chagrin. But truly, our love of rice and curry for breakfast, lunch, and dinner was seriously real.

Rice and curry is the staple of the Sri Lankan diet, blending warm spices, coconut, vegetables, and occasionally meat (generally fish) to form the most delicious of flavours.  

A typical meal involves a pile of rice, two vegetable curries as well as the option of a meat curry (or a third veggie curry). Curries you absolutely must try are:

Dhal | the staple comprising of lentils cooked in spices with a coconut milk

Brinjal (eggplant) curry | sweet, almost caramelised eggplant with spices

Jackfruit curry | tender baby jackfruit (with an meaty texture) mixed with spices

Just about everywhere serves rice and curry, which costs anywhere between LKR 150 - 500, so for those on a budget, it's not only delicious, but seriously cost effective, too.

For veggies, Sri Lanka is one place you can truly rejoice; considering such a huge portion of the population is Buddhist, vegetarian options are plentiful and delicious.

#29 LEARN HOW TO COOK SRI LANKAN STYLE, IN ELLA

In our humble opinion, Sri Lankan cuisine is amongst the best in the world, so we recommend joining a cooking class in Ella and learning to how to make an assortment of delicious curries. 

We joined a class of eight at Lanka's restaurant and cooking school, and learned to cook an assortment of curries including potato, okra, beetroot, pumpkin and jackfruit; all cooked in traditional clay-pots, as well as sambal to accompany our meals. 

It. Was. Amazing. Not only was the class a lot of fun, our newfound curry-making skills will serve us well in the future. 

Where | Lanka Cooking Classes, 39 Passara road, Ella

Cost | LKR 2,000 per person

Read more | Our guide to the best things to do in Ella

#30 EAT SRI LANKA’S FAVOURITE STREET FOOD, KOTTU ROTI

You’ll hear Kottu Roti long before you taste it, so ubiquitous is the metal clanging of the hot plates its cooked on. Truly, there’s one thing you need to eat in Sri Lanka, it’s this.

The most popular Sri Lanka street food, kottu is a mix of shredded godamba roti, vegetables and an assortment of spices, cooked quickly on a hot plate and served on just about every street corner. Sometimes mixed with meat or cheese, this is Sri Lankan 'fast food' at it's best. 

Your standard kottu roti will cost about LKR 200 - 500 depending on ingredients, making it ridiculously affordable and extremely filling.

#31 DRINK A MILLION DELICIOUS KING COCONUTS

Perhaps our favourite daily habit in Sri Lanka was devouring a delicious king coconut at every opportunity. So, naturally we recommend you do the same. 

King coconuts, otherwise known as Thambili, can be found just about everywhere in Sri Lanka, and are a huge source of daily vitamin and mineral needs. They also are a great way of replenishing electrolytes from dehydration, which in stinking hot of Sri Lanka, is absolutely necessary.

Not only are thambili coconuts delicious, they're also served naturally (instead of a horrible plastic bottle), so there's no plastic pollution as a result of your hydration.  

They should cost no more than LKR 50 - 100 (around 50c), and remember to refuse a straw, cause, you know, saving the planet! 

A MAP OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA

Want to see all the best places to visit in Sri Lanka? Download our Sri Lanka map to your phone and follow our recommendations.

read more | our in-depth sri lanka travel guide + 3-week itinerary

Sri lanka trip planning essentials, how to get to sri lanka.

Being an island in the middle of the Indian ocean, pretty much the only way to get to Sri Lanka is by plane. Right now, the main gateway to the country is Bandaranaike International Airport , at Katunayake, 30km north of the capital Colombo.

READ | Our Sri Lanka travel guide runs through all the ways to get to Sri Lanka

BOOK | Search and book flights to Sri Lanka using SkyScanner

TRANSPORT IN SRI LANKA | GETTING TO THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA

Due to Sri Lanka’s small size and abundance of transport options, getting around the island is easy, if not a little time consuming and uncomfortable.

Buses and tuk tuks are the most common form of transport on the island, and service even the most remote corners. Buses, however, are a fraction of the cost of tuk tuks and often times make for a much faster method of getting from A to B.

The most picturesque form of transport, however, is Sri Lanka’s train network. The network may be slow, cumbersome, and somewhat unreliable, but it services all the main areas of the island and provides travellers with rich cultural experiences that just aren’t common in western countries.

READ | Check out our Sri Lanka travel guide to learn more about transport in Sri Lanka

SAFETY IN SRI LANKA

Overwhelmingly, we’ve found Sri Lanka to be one of the safest countries we’ve ever travelled to, and we’ve never encountered any safety concerns there.

For everything you need to know about safety in Sri Lanka, including the historical context, common travel scams, safety on roads, and advice for solo and female travellers, check out our full guide to Sri Lanka safety here

ACCOMMODATION IN SRI LANKA

Accommodation to suit any budget can be found in Sri Lanka, from luxury hotels right through to dorms in budget backpackers. By far the most common type of accommodation is guesthouses, which you can find just about anywhere throughout the island.

Luxury hotels on Sri Lanka are some of the finest in the world, and definitely worth splashing out.

Hotels in Sri Lanka range from the most incredible 5* resorts through to standard 3* shoe boxes. Despite this, hotels are much cheaper here than other parts of the world, so if you’ve got a decent travel budget, you can find some incredible accommodations at decent rates.

BOOK | Use   Booking.com to find the best deals on your Sri Lanka hotel accommodation

GUESTHOUSES

Guesthouses are the most popular accommodation option in Sri Lanka and can be found just about everywhere on the island. They’re how we choose to travel around the island!

While some are fancy, the majority are room/s in family homes, which provide an authentic experience with your host family.

We recommend searching for and booking guesthouses through   Booking.com

BOOK | Use   Booking.com to find the best deals on your Sri Lanka guesthouses

It’s important to note that hostels are rarer in Sri Lanka than in other southeast Asian countries, mostly due to the abundance of wonderful guesthouses. That being said, there are a number of cool hostels in all the main destinations on the island, including Unawatuna , Galle , Ella , Kandy and Colombo.

One of the best is The Doctors House , located in Matara, which is located in a restored colonial building and has a cool outdoor bar and chill area to meet other travellers.

BOOK | Check  Hostelworld for the best hostels in Sri Lanka now. 

SRI LANKA WEATHER, AND THE BEST TIME TO VISIT

Sri Lanka’s weather, much like its politics, is a complicated beast punctuated by two seperate monsoons, which affect different parts of the island and different times of year.

When the monsoon occurs will define where you should travel to, however it also means that some part of the island will have good weather when you decide to visit!

If you’re wanting to visit the incredible sights of the south and central areas, December to March is the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

Alternatively, if you’re keen to hit the surf breaks of Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, April/May to September is the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

READ | Learn more about when to travel to Sri Lanka in our Sri Lanka travel guide

BEST TOURS OF SRI LANKA

Although we’re definitely advocates for independent travel, we understand some travellers may want to experience Sri Lanka with a guide, and with all the nitty gritty travel details taken care of.

Below are selection of tours in Sri Lanka, and the best day tours around the Island.

Sri Lanka Encompassed with G Adventures | A 14-day small group tour visiting major cultural sights within Sri Lanka, including the most scenic train ride in the world from Kandy to Ella. Includes expert guides, meals and transport.

BOOK | Sri Lanka Encompassed

Sri Lanka Explorer with Intrepid Travel | A 12-day tour that takes in all the key cultural and tourist areas (including Jaffna in the north! 

BOOK | Sri Lanka Explorer

Best of Sri Lanka with Intrepid Travel | A 15-day in-depth cultural tour of Sri Lanka that takes in all the major sights including Sigiriya , Kandy , Galle and Ella .

BOOK | Best of Sri Lanka  

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Whatever you do, don’t travel through Sri Lanka without travel insurance . Whether it be Delhi belly, theft, or lost baggage, things can go wrong in Sri Lanka, and insurance is your only way of mitigating the issues! Plus, as the pandemic has taught many; things can go wrong anywhere in the world and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.

For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here .

For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.

Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy

SRI LANKA BACKPACKING ESSENTIALS

Travelling through Sri Lanka comes with a unique set of needs. To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:

Reusable water bottle | THE BEST INVESTMENT WE’VE EVER MADE! We use the Grayl water purification bottles , which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!).

Biodegradable Wet Wipes | Keep clean without destroying the planet!

Hand sanitiser | not something we’d actually recommend normally, but in Sri Lanka it can be a bloody great investment.

A spork | to cut down on unnecessary plastic usage at meal times

Power bank | don’t get caught out without power for your devices

READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Sri Lanka consciously and comfortably

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SRI LANKA

SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | 31 incredible things to do in Sri Lanka , Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary , Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary , Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!), Where to stay in Galle

SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo , Galle , Kandy , Jaffna , Hiriketiya , Mirissa Beach , Ahangama Beach

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala , A guide to Polonnaruwa

TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train , how to get from Colombo to Kandy , how to get from Colombo to Galle

ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella , a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge , How to see Diyaluma Falls , Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)

PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Read our detailed photography gear guide , as well as our top travel photography tips !

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe

ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials

VISITING SRI LANKA? READ THESE ESSENTIAL POSTS

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If you choose to purchase using these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by using these affiliate links, you're directly supporting The Common Wanderer to stay wandering, the running costs of the site, and our ability to provide you with free content to help you on your travels.

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• 43 Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka In 2024 You Must Visit

Full of romantic landscapes, stirring mountains, lush green tea gardens and golden beaches, the island nation of Sri Lanka is nothing short of magnificent. The country has no shortage of beautiful awe-inspiring spots, natural, historic and cultural, each more picture-perfect than the next. From soulful Buddhist monasteries and temples to exotic and impeccable spots rarely explored, Sri Lanka offers everything that makes your escape a memorable one! Whether travelling with your significant other or planning a vacation with your family, Sri Lanka won’t disappoint you! Take a trip to these most beautiful places in Sri Lanka and you will find it difficult to leave back home. Read on to know the most beautiful experiences of Sri Lanka including astounding places and popular attractions. 

43 Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka In 2024

While you’re planning your next vacation to this serene country, scroll down to know where all you can head for an amazing trip with your friends and family. The following are the best travelling places in Sri Lanka that you can include in your itinerary.

• Ella – Witness The Countryside Charm
• Nuwara Eliya – Covered With Lush-Greenery
• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See The Giant Beasts
• Polonnaruwa – The Ancient Ruins
• Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Mirissa – Go Whale Watching
• Yala National Park – Amidst The Wildlife
• Colombo – Visit The Bustling City
• Jaffna – Explore The Historical Architectures
• Ulpotha – Land Of Ayurveda
• Trincomalee – The Temple City
• Kandalama – The Surreal Village
• Tissamaharama – Picture Worthy Place
• Anuradhapura – See The Bodhi Tree
• Horton Plains National Park – Of Lakes And Greenery
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve – Tropical Beauty
• Udawalawe National Park – With Wild Animals
• Tawalantenne – Ideal Road Trip Location
• Arugam Bay – Pristine Beaches
• Commonwealth War Cemetery – For The Warriors
• Unawatuna Beach – Beautiful Beaches
• Sigiriya Museum – Visit The Historical Place
• Perandeniya Botanical Gardens – See The Flowers Blooming
• Dondra Lighthouse – Instagram Worthy
• Dambulla Cave Temple – Witness The Murals
• Old Dutch Fort At Galle – Picturesque Beauty
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Historical Beauty
• Beira Lake – The Surreal Lake
• Temple Of The Tooth Relic – One Of A Kind Temple
• Bentota Beach – Beautiful Sunrise And Blue Waters
• National Museum Of Colombo – Know The History
• Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue – Gigantic Architecture
• Nine Arch Bridge – Ride Amidst The Greenery
• Gal Viharaya – Know The Ancient History
• Ravana Falls – Explore The Surreal Beauty
• Spice Garden – Add Some Spice To Your Vacation
• Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – For Serenity
• Ruwanwelisaya – A Sacred Buddhist Site
• St. Anthony’s Church – Explore The Masterpiece
• International Buddhist Museum – Experience The Spirituality
• Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province – Explore The Greenery
• Dehiwala Zoo – Experience The Wilderness
• Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya – A Treat For The Eyes

1. Ella – Witness The Countryside Charm

Image Source

Looking for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in December? Get enamored by the stunning views through Ella Gap overlooking a spectacular gap in the southern mountain wall. Situated in the middle of beautiful countryside, with small vegetable plots, tea plantations on the hill slopes and forests on the tops this hill station is nothing less than breathtaking. Ella undoubtedly, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Location: Town in Sri Lanka Famous for: Hikes, mountain views, train rides Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to visit Ella as the chances of rainfall are low and you can also enjoy hiking How to reach: Ella is 235 km from Colombo. You can take a direct train to Ella from Colombo Fort Train Station Where to stay:  Blue Ribbon Homestay, Ella Tree houses and Cabanas Tourist attractions:  Ravana’s Cave, Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Falls

Must Read: 15 Things To Do In Ella

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2. Nuwara Eliya – Covered With Lush-Greenery

One of the most beautiful Sri Lanka tourist places, this 19th-century hill station Nuwara Eliya retains its colonial ambiance with its golf course, gentlemen’s clubs and mock Tudor buildings. It is one of the most beautiful locations in Sri Lanka for a scenic rail ride. Experience the stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations, waterfalls and dramatic mountains the train takes you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. You wouldn’t want the ride to end! You can enjoy trekking in Kandy and explore the beauty of nature. It is one of the safest places to visiting Sri Lanka during Covid. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Rishikesh in 2 days , Nuwara Eliya should be on your itinerary.

Location: Nuwara Eliya District, Central Sri Lanka Famous for: Stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations Best time to visit:  February to May is the best time to visit Nuwara Eliya as the chances of rainfall are low and so is the temperature. How to reach: There are frequent buses from Colombo and Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. However, the bus journey between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya takes a lot of time. Where to stay:  King Fern Cottage, Paradise Cottage, Haven Backpackers Tourist attractions:  Lake Gregory, Victoria Park, Pedro Tea Factory

3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See The Giant Beasts

Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for wikipedia

Can you imagine anything as heartwarming as staring at baby elephants as they enjoy a river soak?  The Pinnawalla Elephant Orphanage has many reasons to be called one of the best things to see in Sri Lanka! It won’t be hard to believe if you don’t want to leave this paradise.

This place is 13 km away from the town of Kegalle and one can come by any public transport. This is a very popular tourist destination and gives visitors a very different kind of experience. Watching the baby elephants doing mischief and moving here and there is a lifetime experience. One cannot get to see all this anywhere else.

When you will come to this place, you will get many small reasons that you will definitely love this place. Therefore, whenever you come to Sri Lanka sightseeing do visit this place as it’s one of the best places to see in Sri Lanka.

Location: B199, Rambukkana 71100, Sri Lanka Famous for: Having the largest herd of captive elephants Timings: 9 AM -1 PM is when elephants proceed with their daily activities. The park remains open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM How to reach: Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is just 37 km from Kandy. You could take a train towards Kandy and get down at Kegalle, the nearest village to the orphanage. You can take an auto or tuk-tuk from here to the park. Where to stay:  Hotel Lagone Tourist attractions:  Pinnawala Zoo

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Badulla

4. Polonnaruwa – The Ancient Ruins

The next place in the list is again a city that is popular for the temples, and this has to be one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. You could easily spend your day imagining the ancient city life at the ruins of Polonnaruwa. Well-preserved and full of archaeological treasures with hundreds of ancient structures like tombs and temples, statues and stupas it is difficult to not be amazed by the ruins here.

This is known to everyone that Sri Lanka is a country of temples and also it has many monuments and heritages that depict its history and culture, it is one of the best Sri Lanka tourist places. Polonnaruwa is one such place that is very popular among tourists and one will get to experience the real life of Sri Lanka here.

So, if you are a spiritual person and also you have an interest in knowing the history, culture, and traditions of different countries, then you must visit this place. This place will give you the exact glimpses of Sri Lanka’s history and culture.

One would wonder what are the things here, which will give the sneak peek of Sri Lankan history. The answer to this question is that there are the remains of the old buildings and monuments that were once standing here.

Location: Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka Famous for: Its green environment and attractive tourist hotels Best time to visit: July, August, and January are the best months to visit Polonnaruwa. Avoid May-June as these are the hottest months in Polonnaruwaa. How to reach: There are no direct trains to Polonnaruwa but what you can do is take a train from Colombo to Habarana and then cover the onward journey by bus or taxi. Where to stay:  EKHO Lake House, Wildescape Polonnaruwa, Binara Home Stays Tourist attractions:  Sigiriya, Gal Vihara, Prakrama Samudra

5. Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site

The next destination is one of the most mesmerizing Sri Lanka tourist places and is known as Adam’s Peak. Adam’s Peak is amongst the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. Climb the slopes at night to watch a breathtaking sunrise at dawn that would be hard to forget.

A biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is difficult to match the spectacular views from Adams Peaks in the whole of Sri Lanka, making it one of the best Sri Lanka tourist places. The name itself of this place is unique and so is the destination. This place is situated in middle Sri Lanka and that one thing for which it is known is called Sri Pada. Sri Pada is basically considered as the footprints of Buddha.

This is in the form of a rock creation at the mountain above. Apart from this spiritual and religious importance, this place is known for the beauty that the vivid greenery provides it. Along with that, if you go to the top of the peak, then you will witness some really amazing views of the surroundings. So, the little difficulties that you will have to bear are worth the kind of experience that the place gives you.

Location: Central Sri Lanka Famous for: Its rock formation Best time to visit: Weathe-wise, January and May are the best months. However, avoid full moon days and Sri Lankan holidays if you don’t want to wait in long queues. How to reach: Though you will have to climb the steps, you can take a train from Colombo to reach the base of the peak. Take a direct train to Hatton from Colombo, Kandy, and other cities. Then take a bus or an auto to Dalhousie which is the closest town to Adama’s Peak Where to stay:  Slightly chilled hotel, Grand Adams Peak Hotel Tourist attractions:  Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Laxapana Falls

Suggested Read: 19 Reasons To Love Sri Lanka

6. Mirissa – Go Whale Watching

Spend your days, soaking in the sun on a hammock and whale-watching at the little village of Mirissa, one of the most appealing beach hideaways and places to see in Sri Lanka. The real world will be forgotten as soon as you enter this beachy paradise. Mirissa has to be on your list of beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka for an amazing holiday.

Not everyone is fond of the rush and crowd of the city. Many of us want to spend our holidays in peace and in some quiet places. So, if you too are one such person and you are in Sri Lanka, then you should visit this beautiful village called Mirissa.

This is the village where most of the citizens living are fishermen; therefore you will get a very close view of the life of the local people. You can even go fishing with the fishermen and have a look at the whales and other big fish. Some of the very popular and tastier fishes are found here, like tuna. When you are in this village, do not forget to eat the very tasty local cuisine.

Location: South coast of Sri Lanka Famous for: Tuna, mullet, snapper and butterfish Best time to visit: Mirissa is a windy place. So, avoid May-July. The best months would be December, October, and August in that order. How to reach: Weligama is the nearest train station to Mirissa (7 km). You could take a direct train from Colombo or Bentota to Weligama, and then a tuk-tuk or bus ahead. Where to stay:  Mirissa Hills, Glamour Hotel, Paradise Beach Club Tourist attractions:  Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, Parrot Rock Bridge

7. Yala National Park – Amidst The Wildlife

Get dazzled by the leopards at Yala National Park , home to one of the highest densities of leopards in the world. Full of grassy plains, forest, lagoons, and coastline, this National Park is no less than a big cat paradise. A complete package of natural beauty and heritage, Sri Lankan beautiful places will capture your heart and make it one of the must-visit places in Sri Lanka. A visit to all these gorgeous spots will make a trip an unforgettable experience. This place again comes in the list of the most visited places in Sri Lanka. It is somewhat 200 km away from the town of Bentota.

This is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries not just in that particular area, but among all the sanctuaries of Sri Lanka. One should hire a jeep to have a ride across the jungles of the Sanctuary. This ride of yours will be full of fun and adventure. One can even spot many elephants and leopards while the jeep rides in the jungle. By just reading this article one can imagine how adventurous it would be to have such a ride. Therefore, Yala National Park is one such place that one cannot miss at any cost if they are in Sri Lanka.

Location: Yala, Sri Lanka Famous for: Being home to large number of animals Best time to visit: February to June is a dry season when the chances of spotting wildlife are high. How to reach: The drive to Yala National Park from Haputale is only one hour. There are direct trains from Colombo, Ella, Kandy, etc to Haputale. Where to stay:  Kulu Safaris, Elephant Lake Yala, Ceylon Wild Safaris Tourist attractions:  Kumana National Park, Ruhunu Maha Katagrama

Suggested Read: Hikkaduwa In April

8. Colombo – Visit The Bustling City

Image Source Next place on the list is the city of Colombo which is certainly amongst the best travel places in Sri Lanka. This will be completely unfair and your trip will not be complete if you do not visit the city of Colombo, which is the capital of Sri Lanka. There are several places in this city that you can visit and that will attract you definitely.

The city is beautiful overall and the beauty of it cannot be described in words. To visit the whole city one can book a cab or tuk-tuk and can make a list of places that can be visited. It is sure that one will be able to visit the whole city in one day. This lively capital city is surely among the best places to see in Sri Lanka.

Location: Colombo District, Sri Lanka Famous for: Its national museum and temples Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to visit Colombo as it is the dry season. The chances of rainfall are low. How to reach: Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and has a well-established network of rail, road, and air transport. Where to stay: Mandarina Colombo, C1 Colombo Fort Tourist attractions:  Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Park, Viharadevi Park

9. Jaffna – Explore The Historical Architecture

Looking for religious tourist places in Sri Lanka? This place is also called the city of temples in Sri Lanka, as it has some of the most beautiful temples of Sri Lanka and one of the best Sri Lanka attractions for spiritual retreats. The most visited temple of all in this place are the temple of Nallur Kovil. This temple has the most visitors always and this is the most crowded of all temples. Other temples nearby too are visited by the people who come to visit this one. Apart from these temples, the other centre of attraction of this place is the Jaffna Fort. This fort is not just a beautiful monument to see but is also a symbol of the history of Sri Lanka.

So, the city of Jaffna is not just for the spiritual kind of people, but those who are a little bit interested in history and culture can also visit this place. With these main spots, another point of attraction in Jaffna is the Nagadeepa Vihara Purana temple. This temple too is known for its glory and beauty and is a must-visit. One can easily reach this temple through waterways, thus you can hire a boat and they can come to this place. The area surrounding provides you with the most peaceful environment and one can go for meditation and all.

Location: Northern Province of Sri Lanka Famous for: Its historical architectures Best time to visit: January-September and December are the best months to visit Jaffna as the rainfall is mediocre and temperatures is warm. How to reach: There are no direct trains or buses to Jaffna. However, Kandy is the nearest city to Jaffna. So, if you are in Kandy, you could take a small detour by car or taxi. Where to stay:  Jaffna Guest House, Jaffna Heritage Hotel Tourist attractions:  Fort Jaffna, Nallur Kandaswamy

Suggested Read: 12 Temples In Sri Lanka

10. Ulpotha – Land Of Ayurveda

One thing more for which Sri Lanka is popular is the studies in Ayurveda and Yoga. The village of Ulpotha has some really good centers, where you can practice yoga and that too in the midst of nature. This place looks like next to heaven and spending time here is very pleasurable.

There are many yoga as well as Ayurveda retreat centres. So, even if you are least interested in these things, you should come here to gain more interest. This is believed to be one of the most serene tourist places in Sri Lanka!

Location: Ulpotha, Sri Lanka Famous for: Ayurveda Retreat Centres Best time to visit: It is only open 7 months a year How to reach: If you book a stay with Ulpotha, then you don’t have ti worry about the accommodation. You will be picked up by the staff at the airport Where to stay:  Ayurveda Paradise Maho, Hotel Yapahuwa Paradise Tourist attractions:  Sigiriya Rocks, Yapahuwa Rock Fort

11. Trincomalee – The Temple City

Do you want to explore a few uncommon places to visit in Sri Lanka? People who love water sports and want to live underwater life, he or she can visit this place. This beach is one of the ideal beaches of Sri Lanka. This has everything that a beach should ideally provide to its visitors. The best part about this beach is that it has some really amazing scuba diving instructors. Therefore, one can go and have a real underwater experience there in the nicest of the ways. Apart from this, there are a few temples around, so you can go and see them too.

If you are wondering why you are not much interested in spirituality and all, then why should go to visit a temple? The reason why it is suggestive to visit temples in Sri Lanka is that they are not merely the home for God, but also a beautiful creation of man. The architecture of the temples is marvelous. So, when in Sri Lanka you should not skip visiting any of the temples, especially the one that comes in your way.

Location: Northeast coast of Sri Lanka Famous for: Historical monuments and temples Best time to visit: February to April is the best time to indulge in water activities. How to reach: Sigirya is the nearest aiport to Trincomalee. A taxi ride from the airport will cost you about INR 700-900. Where to stay:  Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa, JKAB Beach Resort Tourist attractions:  Koneswaram Temple, Fort Fedrick

Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Beach Resorts In Sri Lanka

12. Kandalama – The Surreal Village

Image Source Again, we are talking about a beautiful yet calm and pious destination of Sri Lanka. This is again a village and the name of this village is Kandalama. This is a guarantee that the experience that you will get here cannot be achieved anywhere else in the world. This is a place, where you can go for a ride to the skies. Yes, you read it right! There is a hot balloon service here, which will take you up above the skies. This is undoubtedly among the best places in Sri Lanka.

This is merely a village, but the arrangement, it has is not less than a city. If you want to spend your night there in the village, you can book a room for yourself in any of the hotels nearby.

There are many 5-star hotels here and one need not worry about the luxury and comfort that is provided by it. Along with the luxuries, the surroundings that this place has is very soothing and thus it could be counted as must visit place.

Location: Central Province, Sri Lanka Famous for: Lake views and natural setting Best time to visit: May-June, October-November is the time when the region receives excess rainfall. Except for these months, you can travel any time of the year. How to reach: Dambulla is the closest town to Kandalama. You can take a bus to Dambulla from Colombo or Kandy. Where to stay:  Eco Hotel, Heritage Kandalama Tourist attractions:  Kandalama Reservoir, Spice Garden

13. Tissamaharama – Picture Worthy Place

This place is considered one of the places to go in Sri Lanka for those who are keenly interested in photography and stuff. Photography enthusiasts are really passionate about their work and what not they do for getting that perfect shot as this is one of the best Sri lanka tourist spots. If you too belong to the same category, then you should come to the town of Tissamaharama. This place has most scenic surroundings and you can get that perfect shot of flying birds here at this place.

Also, if we talk about the beauty of this place, then there is an artificial, but magnificently beautiful lake here. The name of this lake is Tissa Wewa Lake. Also, this place has some important and amazingly beautiful stupas like Yatala Vehera Stupa and many more. One must know that the people in Sri Lanka are the followers of Buddhism; therefore these stupas are very common in various places.

Location: Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka Famous for: Ancient stupas and the irrigation reservoirs Best time to visit: Winter (December-February) is the best time to visit this place as the weather is warm. How to reach: It is only 88 km from Ella. There are buses from Ella, Matara, galle to Tissa. Where to stay:  Tissamaharama resort, Hotel Tamarind Tree Tourist attractions:  Tissa Lake, Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihar

Suggested Read: 4 Things To Do In Kolonnawa, Sri Lanka

14. Anuradhapura – See The Bodhi Tree

Another of the most beautiful travel destinations in Sri Lanka is Anuradhapura. It is one of the ancient capitals in Sri Lanka and is famously known for its Bodhi Tree and is a must-see beautiful place in Sri Lanka. It is the same tree under which Lord Buddha achieved his enlightenment. Hence, the tree is also called the Tree of Enlightenment. The tree was not always there. Sanghamitra brought the cutting of the tree to the town.

Apart from Bodhi Tree, Anuradhapura has a number of evocative temples and religious sites. If you are in Sri Lanka in search of spirituality, then you should definitely come to this place. The brick stupas of dagobas are another thing you cannot afford to miss.

Location: Capital city of North Central Province, Sri Lanka Famous for: Bodhi tree, beautifully carved stone structures Best time to visit: September and April How to reach: It takes 4 hours from both Kandy and Colombo to reach Anuradhapura. You will find frequent buses from Kandy and Colombo to Anuradhapura Where to stay:  Olivia Homestay, Bevary Holiday Home Tourist attractions:  Singiriya, Mihintale

15. Horton Plains National Park – Of Lakes And Greenery

The list of the top 10 places to visit in Sri Lanka is incomplete without the mention of Horton Plains National Park. Those who enjoy being in nature and love hiking should definitely make a trip down to the Horton Plains. The terminal point of the hike is the world’s end from where you will get to enjoy the ethereal views. You will also find misty waterfalls, enchanting lakes, and a variety of flora-fauna in the park

You will need at least a day in the park. The hike to the world’s end is 4 km long and it takes about 4 hours to complete the whole circuit. Do not miss the Far Inn Hunting Lodge that act as a cafe and a visitor centre.

Location: ‎Central Province, Sri Lanka Famous for: Gorgeous waterfall, pool Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to enjoy the scenery in the park. How to reach: You will find direct train services from Ella, Nanu Oya, ad Haputale Where to stay:  Hill Safari Eco Lodge, The Plains Green Tourist attractions:  Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Bambarakanda Falls

Suggested Read: Horton Plains National Park

16. Sinharaja Forest Reserve – Tropical Beauty

The list of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka is incomplete without mentioning Sinharaja Forest Reserve. If there is one thing in abundance in Sri Lanka, it is flora-fauna. The home of lions, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers making it one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka. The reason why you should visit this place is that you will find a variety of endemic birds and mammals.

SInharaja is also the last viable area of tropical rainforests in Sri Lanka and hence an important biodiversity hotspot. No wonder it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also bordered by the rivers on both sides.

Location: Sinharaja Rainforest, Deniyaya 81500, Sri Lanka Famous for: Rare flora and fauna Best time to visit: January to March. The rest of the months experience heavy rainfall. You could also try in August till October but the precipitation is high. How to reach: There are three entrances to the park; Kudawa, Pitadeniya, and Morning side entrance. Vehicles are not allowed inside. Where to stay:  The Rainforest EcoLodge Sinharaja, 360 Rainforest Tourist attractions:  Maduwanwela Walawwa, Kudawa Research Center

17. Udawalawe National Park – With Wild Animals

If you want to get a sight of elephants in Sri Lanka, then put Udawalawe National Park on your list because it is hard not to notice an elephant here. Located on the border of the boundary of Sabaragamuwa and Uva, the national park was formed to provide a home to the wild animals that were displaced during the construction of Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River.

The enchanting scenery and lush greenery of the area will make your jaw drop. Spot a variety of birds and wild animals like leopards and other mammals. There is even a transit home that houses baby elephants who have lost their parents.

Location: Udawalawa, Sri Lanka Famous for:  Spotting a variety of birds and wild animals Best time to visit: October and January are the best months to spot Asian elephant herd. September is the mating time. How to reach: Dickwella Airport is the nearest airport. It takes about an hour to reach the national park from the airport. You can get direct flights from Colombo. Where to stay:  Elephant Trail, Hotel Udawalawe Tourist attractions:  Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, Udawalawe Reservoir

Suggested Read: 4 Amazing Places To Visit In Udawalawa

18. Tawalantenne – Ideal Road Trip Location

A village in the central province of Sri Lanka, Tawalantenne is best known for St. Clair Falls. The mighty fall is one of the widest in Sri Lanka, and hence, known as Little Niagra of Sri Lanka. The breathtaking beauty of the waterfall will make your heart burst with joy when you lay your eyes on it.

The enchanting beauty of the waterfall surrounded by lush greenery lures locals and tourists to take a road trip down to Tawalantenne is this is why you should too. If you are spending a good amount of days in Nuwara Eliya, then you should put this on your itinerary.

Location: Tawalantenne, Sri Lanka Famous for: Scenic waterfall Best time to visit: Avoid going during monsoons. How to reach: You will have to walk down to the waterfall. However, to reach Tawalantenne, you can hire a car to reach the spot. Ask the staff at your hotel or accommodation to arrange a drive for you. Where to stay:  Ramboda Villa, Tea Bush Ramboda Tourist attractions:  Ramboda Falls, Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple

19. Arugam Bay – Pristine Beaches

Image Source Apart from all other beautiful natural features, Sri Lanka is best known for its beaches. There are many popular beaches in this country and it is said that they come in one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia.

The beaches here are not just for the sake of enjoyment along the side of the sea, but one can even enjoy going in the water. One can get such an amazing experience after visiting Arugam Bay. It is said that this beach is the most enjoyable of all and one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. One can easily dress up in their swimwear and can go into the water if they want.

Apart from this, the beach offers a lot of water activities too, to its visitors. These activities include diving, speed boating, and many others. What makes this beach beautiful of all the beaches in Sri Lanka is the blue water that it has and the coconut trees that are there on the beach.

Location: Sri Lanka’s southeast coast Famous for: Beaches Best time to visit: May-September is the best time to visit Arugam Bay when the monsoon has retreated. How to reach: Ella is the nearest train station with a good frequency of trains from the rest of the country. You can aslo get buses from Colombo to Potuvill (4 km from the bay). Where to stay:  Arugam Bay Roccos,  Beach View Tourist attractions:  The Surf City, Mahudu Maha Viharya

Suggested Read: 6 Day Trips From Kandy

20. Commonwealth War Cemetery – For The Warriors

This place is not regarded as one of the typical tourist places in Sri Lanka but still it is visited by people. There is nothing fancy about this place, yet you should come here to pay your homage to the soldiers who quit their lives for the sake of their country. It is not necessary that the man who has sacrificed his life should belong to your country only.

Be it any country and be it any person, if someone is doing a noble job, then this is our duty to appreciate them. So, when visiting Sri Lanka and especially to Kandy, do come and visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery. Here, you will find that there are people who are paying their tributes to the martyrs.

Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka Famous for: Pay homage to soldiers Best time to visit: December to April Tourist attractions:  Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake

21. Unawatuna Beach – Beautiful Beaches

As mentioned earlier, Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches, not just among its neighbouring countries, but in the whole of Asia. Not just beautiful, the Srilankan beaches offer awesome nightlife and many water activities to the people that come.

One such awesome beach is the Unawatuna Beach which is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka to visit. This beach is very popular but is a bit different from the other beaches of Sri Lanka. While every other beach is known for the happening life that it gives to its tourists, this beach is known for the kind of calmness that it provides to the visitors there.

If you want to spend a good light afternoon, then you can simply come to this best beach in Sri Lanka to relax. The water and the sand here provide a very good environment overall, thus making it again a must-visit place.

This place is the least crowded, but you will get everything that you require. One should not understand that since this is a quiet place, they cannot have fun here. If you want to have fun, then you can dive in the water or even go to the nearby restaurants and cafes and can chill.

Location: Unawatuna Beach, Sri Lanka Famous for: A good place to relax Best time to visit: October to April Tourist attractions: Japanese Peace Pagoda, Rumassala South Beach

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In March

22. Sigiriya Museum – Visit The Historical Place

In this article, there is a mention of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Here we are discussing about the Sigiriya Museum. This museum will become the favorite of the person who is even least interested in history. The museum has such things preserved that clearly depict the tradition and history of Sri Lanka and Sigiriya. Apart from this, the museum is beautiful also, which gives you one more reason for paying a visit.

Location: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka Famous for: Beautiful museum Best time to visit: January to April when the climate is moderate Tourist attractions: Minneriya National Park

23. Perandeniya Botanical Gardens – See The Flowers Blooming

If we are talking about the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka, then why leave Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in Kandy out of the list? The sprawling 147-acre garden has 4,000 species of plants and 10,000 varieties of trees on display which is also one of the most wonderful places in Sri Lanka.

The lush greenery of the garden is invigorating making it a perfect spot for having a picnic with your family. There is even a cafeteria in the park where you can enjoy local and Western cuisine.

Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka Famous for: The lush greenery and a picnic spot Best time to visit: Usually in the evening from 4 pm to 6 pm Tourist attractions: Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake

Suggested Read: 19 Photos that will make you wish you were in Sri Lanka Right Now

24. Dondra Lighthouse – Instagram Worthy

Dondra Lighthouse was made in the era when Sri Lanka was a colony. This could be understood by the way of its construction. This building is very tall and you will get a very good view of the nearby surrounding areas when you stand on the top of it. This looks beautiful because of the rows of palm trees that are there across the building and also because it seems as if the top of this building is meeting the sky.

One can come to visit this place along with his whole family. This is the place where families come and hang out together. You can click as many photographs as you want and can enjoy the scenic sunset that can be easily seen from the top of this lighthouse. The place is situated almost 165 km away from Colombo and therefore one can come here easily by any transportation from Colombo.

Location: Port Access Road, Dondra, Sri Lanka Famous for: Good views of surrounding areas Best time to visit: Early in the morning or evening to enjoy the sunset Tourist attractions: Polhena Beach

25. Dambulla Cave Temple – Witness The Murals

Image Credit: Lankapic for wikipedia

It is hard to not be stunned by the beautiful murals and statues in this beautifully preserved cave with over 150 statues of Buddha. The Dambulla cave temple is one of the finest temples in Sri Lanka which is known for its unique architecture. Experience the peace and silence in this stunning cave temple that bears testimony to the extraordinary cultural artifacts in ancient Sri Lanka.

Location: Kandy – Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla, Sri Lank Famous for: Beautiful murals and statues Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowd Tourist attractions: Habarana Lake, Hurulu Eco Park

Suggested Read: Ramayana Tour In Sri Lanka

26. Old Dutch Fort At Galle – Picturesque Beauty

In the most beautiful city in Sri Lanka, experience a peaceful afternoon, staring at the endless sea from the charming Galle Old Dutch Fort, the best-preserved sea fort in South Asia. Nothing is going to make you want to turn back! This place is for those who are deeply interested in history. It is said that the establishment of this fort dates back to the 16th century. The maintenance is not perfect, but one can see history peeping through the fort. There is a sea nearby and you can get that perfect view from the top of the fort. One can even walk on the shore too.

Location: Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka Famous for: Scenic view from the top of the fort Best time to visit: December to March Tourist attractions: Galle Dutch Fort, Galle Lighthouse

27. Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Historical Beauty

Perhaps one of the most beautiful natural places in Sri Lanka, get lost amongst the ancient remains, remarkable frescoes and water gardens at the astonishing Sigiriya Rock Fortress . Don’t miss the magnificent view from the top, with jungle and rolling hills in every direction. Who would want to leave? Sigiriya is a place that is one of the world heritage sites. This place has uncountable reasons that will make you fall in love with this place. The first thing is its beauty, which is par excellence because of the mesmerizing vegetation it has all around.

Due to many other reasons including the beautiful greenery, it is said that if you do not pay a visit to this place, then your Sri Lanka trip will remain incomplete. The monument here is a fortress that is built in the middle of the greenery. The fortress is fully made up of rocks. So, if you will climb and go up, you will get a 360-degree view of the surrounding areas. This would be a brilliantly amazing view to watch. However, the way to reach this place is not that difficult, but even if you face a little problem then it is worth it.

Location: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka Famous for: Its water gardens, beautiful views Best time to visit: January to April Tourist attractions: Minneriya National Park

Suggested Read: 25 Best Places To Visit In Kandy

28. Beira Lake – The Surreal Lake

Sri Lanka is undoubtedly a beautiful city, but commercialization has made its place in the country. This, results in overcrowded places and markets, but if you want to spend a really peaceful time in Sri Lanka, then Beira Lake is the place for you. After that long and tiring shopping and travel if you want to sit calmly and relax your mind, then come to Beira Lake and have a boat ride there. You will feel as if all your tiredness and tension have gone.

The lake is very beautiful as it has green water and also because of the lots of Ducks that remain in the water and appear in front of the visitors during the boat ride. One can even go with a paddle boat as they too are available for rent. This lake offers an overall peaceful experience to the visitors.

Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Famous for: Peaceful visit and boat ride Best time to visit: Early morning is the preferable time to enjoy fresh atmosphere Tourist attractions: Seema Malakaya, Gangaramaya Temple

29. Temple Of The Tooth Relic – One Of A Kind Temple

One of the most interesting places in Sri Lanka, the next place in this is the one that is very unique and beautiful in every way. We are here talking about the Temple of Tooth Relic. This temple is very popular and most of the tourists coming to Sri Lanka come here definitely because of its uniqueness. Like many other popular places of Sri Lanka, this too comes in the world heritage sites and is marked so by UNESCO. The temple is spiritual and historical.

So, people who come here are interested in both subjects. It is said that the tooth relic that the temple has is of Buddha. Also, there is this saying that one who will hold that tooth relic will be the governor of the kingdom. This temple is located in the city of Kandy.

Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka Famous for: Spiritual and historical significance Best time to visit: During the evening from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Tourist attractions: Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake

Suggested Read: Street Food In Colombo

30. Bentota Beach – Beautiful Sunrise And Blue Waters

If you’re looking for the most relaxing places in Sri Lanka, this beach lies at a distance of 65 km from the city of Colombo a beautiful beach named Bentota. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka and a must-visit spot on your trip there.

Unwind and relax on the golden sand of the Bentota beach and enjoy the beautiful sea views. One can also enjoy a boat cruise on the Bentota River and those who are looking for some adventure can enjoy some exciting water activities at the Bentota beach. Don’t forget to explore the best places to visit in Bentota while wandering here!

Location: Bentota 80500,  Sri Lanka Famous for: Golden sand beaches and sea views Best time to visit: October to April Tourist attractions: Turtle hatching centre, Game park

31. National Museum Of Colombo – Know The History 

Do you like sneaking in the past of the place you are exploring on your vacation? To know the present, one must surely dig into the past, so why don’t you explore this illuminating National Museum of Colombo which was established in the year 1877 and offers an enormous collection of significant artefacts that fore-says the story of this lush green country and makes one of the famous places in Sri Lanka! It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Colombo on a Sri Lankan holiday.

Location: Center of the Colombo city Famous for: Significant artifacts Best time to visit: Throughout the year Tourist attractions:  Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park

Suggested Read: 5 Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka In October

32. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue – Gigantic Architecture 

If you have added Kandy to the itinerary on your next vacation to Sri Lanka then you must surely head to this magnificent statue of Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha, located on the top of Devil’s hill (Bahirava Kanda). The place is known for offering stunning views of the entire Kandy town and is called as paradise by nature lovers making it one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in November . You can also plan a visit to this place during night when the statue is lit up by lamps.

Location: Peradeniya, Kandy Famous for: Magnificent statue Best time to visit: Early morning or after sunset Nearby Tourist Attractions: Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake

33. Nine Arch Bridge – Ride Amidst The Greenery

This is one of the iconic and famous places in Sri Lanka which is known for being surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views. Located at the small mountain town of Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge was built in the early days of the railway expansion in Sri Lanka. The unique thing about the bridge is that it is made of sheer cement, stone and brick, without the use of any steel. The most beautiful view that the visitors can admire is the train rolling over the bridge while they make their move towards the Demodara Loop.

Location: Sri Lanka Famous for: Lush greenery  and panoramic views Best time to visit: January to March Tourist Attractions: Ravana’s Cave, Ravana Falls

Suggested Read: 22 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya

34. Gal Viharaya – Know The Ancient History

Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Gal Viharaya is a famous Buddhist site. This place is adorned by a vast number of caves and gigantic sculptures of Buddha. Carved and crafted in the 12th century, these statues are preserved extremely safely. Just beside the statues, the code of conduct is also inscribed which was to be followed to purify the Buddhist Monks. Due to its unique beauty, this is considered one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.

Location: Nissankamallapura, Sri Lanka Famous for: Gigantic sculptures of Buddha Best time to visit: July, August, and January Tourist Attractions: Sigiriya, Prakrama Samudra

35. Ravana Falls – Explore The Surreal Beauty

The Ravana Falls are famous for its surreal location which becomes the hot spot during the summer months. This fall is a part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and also the nearby cave complex is known for its rich local legend. Situated at the main road which falls on the way to Ella Town, the caves come as a common halt point for visitors. It is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.

Location: Sri Lanka Famous for: Surreal location Best time to visit: January to March Tourist Attractions: Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana’s Cave

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In June

36. Spice Garden – Add Some Spice To Your Vacay

Famous for its rare collection of herbs and spices, the spice garden has always been a major attraction in Sri Lanka to explore the rarest herbs and witness their process of being sown. You can also find some of the common herbs that are often used by people like turmeric, peppercorns, cloves, nutmeg, cocoa and cinnamon.

You can gain an insight into the actual process of these herbs and their importance or benefits along with enjoying the natural beauty of this garden making it one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. If you’re looking for couple things to do in Sri Lanka, then you can have a look at the Sri Lanka honeymoon guide and plan a romantic getaway in this tropical paradise.

Location: No 99, Kawudupelella 21000, Sri Lanka Famous for: Rare collection of herbs and spices Best Time To Visit: March to July Tourist attractions: Rawana Falls

37. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – For Serenity

Also known as Kelaniya Temple, this is a Buddhist temple which is famous for being one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka and one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. The temple is known for its magnificent art, the intriguing sculptors and the glorious history attached to it. Kelaniya Temple was built on the bank of Kelaniya River and offers serene surroundings.

Location: Peliyagoda, Sri Lanka Famous for: Magnificent art Best Time To Visit: October – January How To Reach : Kelaniya Temple is located at the city of Kelaniya, 12km east of the city of Colombo. Kelaniya Temple can be reached by A1 main motor road running from Colombo to Kandy and railway. Tourist attractions: St. Anthony’s Church

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit Near Colombo Airport

38. Ruwanwelisaya – A Sacred Buddhist Site

Ruwanwelisaya is a famous stupa that is sacred to the Buddhist across the globe, and it was built by the King Dutugemunu. It is one of the world’s tallest monuments, one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka and reflects a certain irresistible charm. The intriguing architecture is a sight to behold. An interesting fact about this stupa is that it took almost 33 years to build this.

Location: Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Famous for: Intriguing architecture Best Time To Visit: December to March Tourist attractions: Sri Maha Boodhi Temple, Ranmasu Uyana

39. St. Anthony’s Church – Explore The Masterpiece

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

One of the most Sri Lanka famous places is St. Anthony’s Church which is a great place for devotees who come from all across the globe. There are various masses which are conducted all through the weekdays as well as on weekends.

Location: Kochchikade, St. Anthony’s Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka Famous For: Statue of St. Anthony, which was brought from Goa Best Time To Visit: Anytime of the year How To Reach: You can reach by bus or car from the airport. Where To Stay: St. Anthony’s hotel, Hotel John Mary Tourists Attractions: Special masses and benediction services in Tamil, English, and Sinhala every Tuesday.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Travel Tips

40. International Buddhist Museum – Experience The Spirituality

If you are a religious enthusiast and looking out for some of the Sri Lanka places to visit, then you must surely visit the International Buddhist Museum. Check out post COVID travel guide to Sri Lanka for a refreshing vacation.

Location: Close to Temple of Tooth, Kandy Famous For: Complete knowledge about Buddhism Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year How To Reach: By cab or local bus Where To Stay: OZO Kandy, King of Kandy Hotel, Ceylon City Hotel Tourists Attractions: photographs, models and gigantic statues

41. Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province – Explore The Greenery

For all adventure lovers, Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake is the best place to visit in Sri Lanka, where you will witness lush greenery, a tropical climate and you can also do camping. You can experience sunrise and sunset which is a completely breathtaking view.

Location: Uva Province, Sri Lanka Famous For: Fish viewing and bird watching Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year How To Reach: You can hire a cab or local bus Where To Stay: GMT Sorabora Village Hotel Tourists Attractions: Beautiful sluice gate

Suggested Read: International Flights To Resume In Sri Lanka

42. Dehiwala Zoo – Experience The Wilderness

Dehiwala Zoo provides shelter to endangered species like wild animals and birds and you will also spot elephants, chimpanzees and sea lions. This is one of the amazing places in Sri Lanka. Explore the best places to visit in Colombo.

Location: Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala. Famous For: breeding, animal exchange programs Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year How To Reach: Through local bus Where To Stay: Concord Grand Hotel, Royal Mount Hotel, Villa 2 Residence Tourists Attractions: The place is one of the members of WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums)

43. Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya – A Treat For The Eyes

Image Credit: Author Name for Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

One of the most tranquil places to explore in Sri Lanka is Bambarakanda Falls. The waterfall is at a height of 263 meters and is regarded as the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Location: Kalupahana – Ohiya Rd, Sri Lanka Famous For: Uduweriya Haputale Mountain and Kuda Oya, a tributary of Walawe River Best Time To Visit: It is recommended that you must visit the waterfalls early in the morning as the waterfall gets busy from 11 AM. How To Reach: you can drive up to 6 kms to reach the fall. Where To Stay: Melheim Resort and Spa, Nilowin Holiday Resort, Olympus Plaza Hotel Tourists Attractions: evergreen forest in the Kalupahana Area.

Further Read: Sri Lanka A Must Visit Holiday Destination

A complete package of natural beauty and heritage, these most beautiful places in Sri Lanka will capture your heart. A visit to all these gorgeous spots will make a trip an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Sri Lanka for the holidays of 2024 right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka

How many days are enough to visit Sri Lanka?

You can visit Sri Lanka for 4 to 5 days as there are many places that you can explore there.

What is there to do in Sri Lanka in May?

You can go surfing, visit Yala National Park and more places in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s sandy beaches, timeless ruins, tea gardens, and prominent peaks have attracted travelers from around the world for centuries. Watch our Sri Lanka travel video to get an up-close look at the undeniably alluring attractions in this region.

Where is the best area to stay in Sri Lanka?

There are a number of places to visit in Sri Lanka that have some of the best staying options, from hotels and resorts to homestays and hostels. Some of them are: Colombo, Arugam Bay, Galle and Matara, Kandy, Dambulla Area, and Anuradhapura.

What is Sri Lanka known for?

The country of Sri Lanka is known for various factors, including the religious aspects. The rich Buddhist culture is quite prominent here. Apart from Buddhism, there are other religions too that are well known in Sri Lanka. The country is also renowned for its historical richness, attracting tourists from different countries of the world.

What should I buy in Sri Lanka?

When you are exploring the different markets in the country of Sri Lanka, you must keep some of the stuff in mind for a great shopping experience! Some of the best souvenirs that you can find in Sri Lankan markets are: tea, spices, moonstone carvings, handwoven accessories jewellery and gems, Buddha statuettes, elephant figurines, Ayurvedic cosmetics, etc.

Is Sri Lanka expensive?

Like most countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on a backpacker budget, or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites. With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.

Is there Uber in Sri Lanka?

A few days back, Uber announced that its Intercity service would now be available for all cities in Sri Lanka. So you can now take an Uber to Ella, Riverston, or the Great Western. However, Uber isn’t the first ride-hailing app to offer trips out of Colombo.

Which are some of the famous romantic places to visit in Sri Lanka?

Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya and Mirissa Beach are some of the popular romantic places to visit in Sri Lanka.

What are the tourist places in Sri Lanka near the airport?

Pettah Bazaar, Gangaramaya Temple, and Mount Lavinia are the famous tourist places in Sri Lanka located near the airport.

Which are the best hotels in Colombo?

Some of the best hotels where you can enjoy amazing services in Colombo are Mandirina, Taj Samudra, Hotel Galadari, and Shangri-La.

Which are the most famous restaurants in Colombo?

The London Grill and Graze Kitchen are the most popular restaurants in Colombo that serve delectable meals.

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Tanishk Juneja

Experience the world through captivating stories of adventure and travel. As a senior content writer, I bring my passion for exploration to life, crafting tales that take you on a journey. With my words, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery and the joy of experiencing new cultures. Let me turn your imagination into a reality with stories that inspire you to explore and embrace the world.

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32 must-visit places in Sri Lanka for the trip of a lifetime

Ancient temples, magnificent wildlife, and rugged beaches await…

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Sri Lanka enthralls with a myriad of sights and activities that appeal to all kinds of travellers; wild and rugged beaches, picture-perfect tea plantations, impressive surf spots, and stunning scenery where high-end boutique lodgings jostle with local-owned homestays eager to showcase the country’s addictive cuisine in all its glory. 

It’s a true jewel in the Indian Ocean, a place where wild leopards roam free, and the endless verdant jungle is dotted with little-visited ancient temples and fascinating archaeological sites. 

And despite its turbulent history - including a decades-long civil war, devastating tsunami, and the economic uncertainty of past years - Sri Lanka is a land of smiles, generosity, and warmth. Its smallish size ensures it’s fairly simple to get around by public transport and it feels pretty safe for solo travellers.

This fascinating country is sure to get under your skin and will create memories that truly last a lifetime.

The most incredible must-visit places in Sri Lanka

A true marvel that takes your breath away, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya, an ancient fortress built atop a colossal 180-meter-high granite rock is one of Sri Lanka’s most loved attractions, and for good reason. Best visited out of season when the heat of the country lessens and crowds dissipate, it’s easy to buy a ticket (£28) at the main gate before heading up to the top of the miraculous citadel that dates back to the 5th century. The remains of the fortress's ancient palace can’t fail to impress since the whole structure was built by hand, while a few of the 500 incredible frescos remain on the rock's western face.

Lonely Planet Sri Lanka (Travel Guide) Paperback, £14.99 | Amazon

Plan the trip of a lifetime with the help of Lonely Planet's informative guidebook.

Dondra Head

A bright white lighthouse marks Dondra Head, Sri Lanka’s southernmost point. Here, aside from the lighthouse, there are a couple of shallow bays where it’s possible to take a dip in the refreshing ocean but be wary of rip tides that can sweep in at any moment. As with Sri Lanka’s northernmost point, there’s a postbox at Dondra Head from where you can post letters and cards with the Dondra Head stamp.  

Upon landing in Colombo, rather than head straight to the beaches or nearby hill country, it’s worth getting to know the city since there’s a range of impressive restaurants, cafes, shops, and museums (like the Colombo National Museum) to get acquainted with. Spend time strolling the wide city boulevards dotted with dramatic ancient trees because life on the street is where you’ll get a real sense of city life. 

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Kandy and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Taking prime position next to the city’s idyllic lake, this glorious temple should be a firm fixture on your Sri Lankan itinerary.  An important pilgrimage spot since it houses the relic of the tooth of the Lord Buddha, all Sri Lankan Buddhists will aim to visit the temple at least once in their lifetimes. Afterwards, take a stroll around Kandy’s serene lake at sunset. 

The royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa

This ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site city wows with magical temples and impressive Buddha statues that date back to the 12th century. It’s a serene and sublime place that deserves at least a day of your time to appreciate it in all its beauty and it’s possible to hire bicycles at the entrance gate. If you are limited on time, be sure to witness Uththararamaya where four impressive buddhas, each in a differing pose, have been carved directly into the granite rock face - it’s an incredible sight. 

Yala National Park

Lovers of wildlife and nature won’t want to miss a couple of days in Yala National Park, the place to see wild leopards, elephants, grey tufted langurs, wild boar, and a plethora of beautiful birds. Wild Coast Lodge is the ultimate luxurious stay but there are a range of more affordable options nearby. 

Pidurangala Rock

Once you’ve climbed the ancient and impressive rock fortress of Sigiriya, it’s worth taking a hike to the top of Pidurangala Rock for sweeping panoramic views back across to Sigiriya. The Pidurangala Rock hike takes a couple of hours and affords viewers the chance to see Sigiriya in context amongst the lush countryside that surrounds it and showcasing the impressive citadel in all its glory. Sunset and sunrise are particularly good times to be at the summit. 

Melheim Resort and Spa , not far from Haputale rail station, is the ideal base for hiking Sri Lanka’s hill country and learning about the utterly fascinating tea picking and manufacturing process. Since the town sits at 1431 meters above sea level it has a cooler climate than the rest of the country making it the ideal place to retreat when the heat gets too much. 

Kompagngna Veediya, Colombo

Around the pastel-coloured facades of the crumbling buildings in Kompagngna Veediya (previously known as Slave Island), you’ll find an abundance of vast and colourful street art murals, many designed and created by the creative movement known as the Fearless Collective. Check out the latest large-scale artwork, dedicated to Sri Lankan female journalists on the side of the abandoned Rio Cinema. 

The Colombo to Haputale train journey

From Colombo or Kandy, hop on one of the trains that trundles through Nanu Oya, Hatton, Ella, or Haputale for one of the most scenic rides of a lifetime. From postcard-perfect tea plantations to mist-shrouded pine forests past stunning waterfalls and daily village life, the scenes that unfold outside of the open train windows are the stuff of dreams - don’t forget your camera. 

Out of bounds for decades due to the country’s devastating civil war, Jaffna feels almost untouched by tourism. The city itself overflows with residents of all ages riding gorgeous vintage bicycles, towering Hindu temple spires, and an array of eateries serving up morish South Indian food. 

Galle Fort, Galle

Around two hours south of Colombo, this historical, once-riotous town and its eclectic mix of structures that span Portuguese, Dutch, and British occupation is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and shouldn’t be missed. A place where history can be felt on every street, it’s worth taking a guided city tour with Archaeologist Tharanga Liyana Arachchi to learn more about the port city’s action-packed and fascinating history. 

Kandyan Cultural Centre, Kandy

Firewalking, intense rhythmic drumming, and hypnotic performances all feature in the daily traditional Kandyan dance and drumming show at the city’s cultural centre. Tickets can be bought at the door just before the show begins at 5pm daily.

What was once a tiny unassuming road junction is now a thriving tourist town (not always a good thing) but it’s all due to the town’s close proximity to the famed nine arch railway bridge and the rise of Instagram. While many head to the bridge to get their shot for the ‘gram it’s worth exploring the hiking routes that span out from Ella; hikers will be mesmerised by sprawling tea plantations and jaw-dropping scenery.

Ropewalk Bar, Galle Fort

Taking up a prime position in the centre of Galle Fort, Ropewalk is the world’s only speciality arrack bar serving up expertly blended cocktails in gorgeous surroundings. Having just launched a brand new menu of arrack sours it’s the place to come for a hip and fun night within the rampart walls. 

Meditation House, Madiha

Only a handful of people know about this ancient temple sitting on the clifftop that looks out over Madiha Beach. Presided over by head monk Vineetha, it’s possible to stay on the temple grounds in simple yet serene accommodation where you can meditate to the sound of the waves. 

Tea Trails, Hatton

Made up of five historic tea planter bungalows, some with lake views, and all situated in and around ancient tea plantations, Tea Trails is a real must-visit when in Sri Lanka. Bedrooms are sumptuously decorated with four-poster beds, claw-foot stand-alone bathtubs, and private gardens. Don’t miss the complimentary tea factory tour which is fascinating beyond words.

Negombo Fish Market

Close to Sri Lanka’s international airport, it’s worth spending a night in Negombo to witness some of the country’s most hardworking residents get to back-breaking work laying salted fish out to dry in the blazing sun. The spectacle of vast coconut-fibre mats lying across hot sand covered in drying fish is pretty impressive. Pausing only for rainy days and religious holidays – like the monthly full moon Poya day – Negombo’s fishmongers, traders, and workers make up the backbone of the country in many ways.

Point Pedro

An old burgundy and cream PO letterbox marks Sri Lanka’s northernmost tip and provides the ideal photo opportunity. Don’t miss the small hole-in-the-wall shop across the road that sells postcards emblazoned with a Point Pedro stamp, then take a stroll along the endless stretch of sand studded with colourful fishing boats.

Matara Fort

While Galle Fort is famed across the globe, the Dutch Fort of Matara is less explored but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a detour. Away from the crowds, this atmospheric spot on the coast has bucket loads of potential to become Sri Lanka’s next big tourist destination (you heard it here first), until then it’s worth a stroll and a lunch stop at nearby The Dutchman’s Street .   

Amangalla, Galle Fort

From the open-air terrace with its stunning floor tiles overlooking Church Street, to the palm-tree-backed swimming pool every part of this five-star hotel impresses. Service is second to none and the food is exceptional, even if you don’t stay it’s worth booking a table for dinner or breakfast. 

Manalkadu Dutch Church, Jaffna

On the road to Manalkadu village, around 12km from Point Pedro, sits the ruins of the Manalkadu Dutch Church, half buried in dunes. The roofless 18th-century structure has been enveloped by sand that’s been continuously blowing over it for hundreds of years, resulting in a particularly surreal and almost dreamlike scene.

Cape Weligama

This gorgeous hotel with two swimming pools sits atop a cliff with views out towards the ocean, making it the ideal place to spend a few days unwinding after traversing the country. Cape Weligama's restaurant features an exciting menu that includes an unmissable Sri Lankan highlight - flash-fried sea crab served with black pepper and curry leaves.

The last few years have seen Hiriketiya’s popularity increase dramatically but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Boasting a pleasant horseshoe-shaped bay that draws surfers during high season the town has all of the amenities required for a paradisiacal break; cute cafes, fun bars, well-designed lodgings, and restaurants serving up incredible dishes.

Knuckles Mountain Range

Located in central Sri Lanka to the northeast of Kandy is this dense massif with its numerous peaks and valleys that resemble the knuckles of a clenched fist. Hikers will adore the numerous trails that run through dense countryside past numerous impressive waterfalls, but a guide is necessary since the range spans an incredible 81 square miles - you really don’t want to get lost here. 

De Saram House, Colombo

De Saram House in the upscale district of Kurunduwatta is made up of just four bedrooms surrounding a large courtyard, with each boasting sublimely high ceilings, traditional Sri Lankan woven wall hangings, and curation of acclaimed Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s personal artworks. Ideal for design lovers this homely place serves a great breakfast too. 

Nallur Kandaswamy Devasthanam Hindu Temple, Jaffna

Dedicated to Lord Muruga (god of the Tamil people and son of Lord Shiva) the iconic temple of Nallur is one of the most impressive structures in Jaffna. Its ornately carved golden gopuram is the main focal point, yet inside, the temple is equally impressive, with shrines to Ganesh and other gods.

Mangroves, wild and rugged swathes of beach, and a handful of upmarket hotels make Tangalle the ideal place for a blissful few days of rest. Then once you’re ready to explore once more, the nearby Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, with over 150 species of birds is well worth a visit.

Udawalawe National Park

Due to its large reservoir, Udawalawe National Park draws numerous elephants making spotting these magnificent creatures easier than some of the other Sri Lankan parks. Made up of forest, marshland, and plenty of open grassland it’s also possible to spot leopards, water buffalo, monkeys, and plenty of tropical birds. 

Dambulla Cave Temple

As one of the best-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an ancient sacred pilgrimage site, a trip to Dambulla Cave Temple should be a firm fixture on everyone’s Sri Lankan odyssey. This impressive site features religious art and murals, important shrines, and plenty of Buddha statues. 

Around 40 minutes south of Galle, this beach town is the place to come for surf lessons, cute cafes, and good restaurants. It’s also possible to spot the famed stilt fishermen of Sri Lanka in Weligama’s bays who are carefully perched on the crossbars of stilts in the shallow waters just offshore. 

Popular from May to August when surf lovers descend on this East Coast idyll, Arugam Bay is little more than a sleepy village the rest of the year. With everything to keep digital nomads and backpackers occupied it’s well worth a few day's stay on any Sri Lankan itinerary. 

Lydia is a travel writer and solo travel expert, based mostly in London. Her work has been published in print and online for the likes of Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, BBC Travel, Harper's Bazaar, ELLE, Marie Claire, Oh magazine, Town&Country, and woman&home.

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Home » Asia » The 20 BEST Places to Visit in Sri Lanka (+ what to see & do there!)

The 20 BEST Places to Visit in Sri Lanka (+ what to see & do there!)

If you are wondering what to do in Sri Lanka, what to see in Sri Lanka or simply what are the top Sri Lanka tourist places, then this is the post for you! From temples to beaches, national parks to epic hikes, wildlife to relaxation, we have listed 20 of the Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka (plus what to see and so there!) to help you plan the trip of a lifetime to this amazing country!

In This Post

• 1.1 Sigiriya
• 1.2 Pidurangala Rock
• 1.5 Knuckles Mountain Range
• 1.6 Ritigalla
• 1.7 Arugam Bay
• 1.8 Anuradhapura
• 1.9 Unawatuna
• 1.10 Polonnaruwa
• 1.11 Yapahuwa
• 1.12 Udawalawe National Park, Yala National Park & Kaudualla National Park
• 1.13 Dambulla Cave Temple
• 1.14 Colombo
• 1.15 Weligama
• 1.16 Mirissa
• 1.17 Adam’s Peak
• 1.18 Hikkaduwa
• 1.19 Nuwara Eliya
• 1.20 Negombo

The 20 BEST Places To Visit in Sri Lanka

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 3, 2018 at 6:20am PDT

Set in the heart of the North Central Province Sigiriya Rock stands at nearly 200m high and with just over 1200 steps to the top, it is one of the most impressive and significant archeological sites in the country and one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Pidurangala Rock

It was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage register for its unique exposition of “an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries;” and the hope of the town is that it is named as one of the seven modern wonders of the world in the not too distant future.

Wandering it’s ramparts (fort walls), dining in Galle’s many restaurants and watching sunset under its famous lighthouse is definitely one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka!

The City of Kandy is easily one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka and should definitely not be missed.

Knuckles Mountain Range

With multiple trails of varying lengths it is a great way to get back to nature, although be warned: you will be required to wear leech socks, and your guide will carry a spray containing a mixture of salt and water, should one of the little bleeders (which is actually what they do, and is not said as a profanity) latch onto your warm body.

The ‘trick’ is to keep moving and so constantly transfer your body weight and heat, although they are determined little suckers and I can’t guarantee you’ll be able to avoid them altogether. Also note, they are typically only small, and do not pose a threat to your life – they’re just a bit icky (if you ask me anyway).

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Oct 26, 2018 at 6:09am PDT

Once the site of a Buddhist monastery, the trek up through the lush jungle is punctuated with several resting places among the ancient ruins of bathing pools, chambers for worship and places of meditation – because despite its jungle surrounds, the peak of Ritigala is actually the highest point between Sri Lanka and India and is higher than nearby Sirigiya and Anuradhapura. (Although you don’t get anywhere near the peak when exploring the monastery ruins.)

For the non-surfers among you there are also an array of wildlife spotting opportunities in the area around the Lahugala elephant corridor where sunset is a great time to see elephants, wild boar, deer and crocodiles!

Anuradhapura

It’s a sprawling complex built around a cutting from the ‘tree of enlightenment’, the Buddha’s fig tree (Bhodi Tree), brought there in the 3rd century B.C (making it the oldest living tree in the world). Anuradhapura was also the ancient city that ruled Sri Lanka for over 1300 years before being abandoned following the invasion in 993.

Today is is reopened to the public, and is the site of pilgrimage for Buddhists throughout the world and is recommended that you hire the services of a guide on your day trip /day tour to get the most from this huge archeological and cultural site.

And just around the corner from the main beach is the ‘loved by locals and tourists alike’ Jungle Beach. From the road where you’ll be dropped off you can take a short walk to the top to reach the Japanese Peace Pagoda, or take a walk down (and back up) to Jungle Beach.

Polonnaruwa

A combination of art, medieval architecture and great irrigation facilities which make for a very green environment, it is much more of a museum than a living city when compared to Anuradhapura, but is one of the main attractions in Sri Lanka. It is also smaller in size than Anuradhapura, but routes around still cover 6-10km and as such it is recommended that visitors cycle around the facility.

The view over the surrounding plains from this height is stunning, but for those looking for a higher vantage point, a rocky pathway to the left takes you another 40+ meters to the top of the rock. The steps are quite steep, with limited hand holds the closer you get to the summit and Sri Lanka’s stereotypical humidity means you will be hot and sweaty at the top.

Udawalawe National Park, Yala National Park & Kaudualla National Park

If you’re looking to see a particular animal, Udawalawe National Park is known for its huge elephant population and in Yala National Park you also have the opportunity to see leopards – although there is no guarantee!

Going on Safari in any of the national parks is one of best things to do in Sri Lanka.

Dambulla Cave Temple

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 22, 2018 at 9:54pm PST

It’s a very peaceful place, visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering, and if you can time your visit with sunset you may be treated to a sky like the one I saw (just be sure to have some battery left on your phone to provide torch light if you find yourself walking back to the car after dark!)

It’s never been a favorite with travelers, but there is a huge shopping district at Pettah along with the National Museum and a beautiful contrast between city and green space at Galle Face Green in case you have some spare time there and want to explore a little bit.

There are also a huge number of hotels being built along the shoreline and with so much competition you can find great deals for hotels with epic rooftop pools and bars to watch the city from above!

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 15, 2017 at 5:09am PST

PSA: Mirissa is one of the premier beach resorts in Sri Lanka and also the place where a lot of Blue Whale Watching boats depart from each day, although we urge you to check that any operator offering tours does so in an ethical manner.

Adam’s Peak

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 22, 2017 at 6:22am PST

Most will stay in the tiny town of Delhousie at the bottom of the trail and will rise in the early hours to start the 4-5 hour climb to see sunrise.  If you are in this region, it is also a good chance to take a tour of the nearby Hatton Tea Plantations and Tea Factory and see where your cup of tea probably starts it’s life!

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 28, 2018 at 1:44am PST

Nearby, Hikkaduwa National Park is a coral sanctuary and home to marine turtles, exotic fish and turtle hatchery’s, and if you happen to stay at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon you’ll not only find yourself right on the beach front, but also have a high possibility of seeing huge wild green sea turtles, who have used the beach at the front of the hotel for nesting for centuries.

They casually play in the surf and get quite close to the hotel each morning and they don’t mind you being close to them, but please make sure you don’t touch them.

Nuwara Eliya

That’s a warp folks! I hope you are no longer wondering what are the best places to see in Sri Lanka or where to go in Sri Lanka – but have already started to plan your Sri Lanka trip by picking out your favorite Sri Lanka destinations from our list of the 20 BEST Places to Visit in Sri Lanka! (Phew, that was a sentence and a half!) BUT, if you have a hidden gem perfect for some Sri Lanka sightseeing that I haven’t included on the list, please let me know!

And if you liked this post, please flip, tweet, pin or share – I would very much appreciate it!

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Hi There! Thanks for reading our travel guide to all the amazing Sri Lanka attractions and Sri Lanka points of interest including the 20 BEST Places to Visit in Sri Lanka! I just wanted to let you know that this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

Thank you for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld Travel Blog.

Friday 23rd of April 2021

Thank You for your help. It’s really helped me a lot in finding the best beaches in Sri Lanka.

Wednesday 12th of December 2018

We spent about 10 days in Sri Lanka a few years ago and loved our time there. The beaches are incredible and the food was amazing! We definitely need to get back though - there are so many places listed here that we just didn't get the time to visit.

Explore Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Top 17 Places to See in Sri Lanka – Discover the Hidden Treasure

Sri Lanka has a variety of towns and villages to explore. From bustling cities with vibrant nightlife to quiet villages with picturesque landscapes, every town and village in Sri Lanka has its own charm and atmosphere.

Here are the top 17 must-see places to visit on your trip through Sri Lanka:

Nestled in the hills of the central highlands is Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich history and religious significance, being the site of the sacred Temple of the Tooth, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

Highlights :

• Temple of the Tooth – an impressive temple that houses the sacred tooth of Buddha.
• Kandy Lake – an artificial lake in the heart of the city
• Peradeniya Botanical Garden – a paradise for plant lovers
• traditional Kandy dances – a fascinating display of art and culture.

2. Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, known as the “City of Light” and “Little England,” is a charming mountain village known for its cooler temperatures, beautiful gardens and endless tea plantations. The breathtaking scenery and colonial architecture add a special charm to the town.

Highlights:

• Horton Plains National Park – a breathtaking plateau with unique flora and fauna
• Lake Gregory – a picturesque lake ideal for boat trips
• Tea factory tours – an opportunity to experience the process of tea production first hand.

3. Anuradhapura

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura is a window into Sri Lanka’s rich history. With the ruins of ancient royal palaces and impressive stupas, this city is a paradise for history buffs.

• Sacred Bodhi tree – the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world.
• Ruins of ancient royal palaces and dagobas (stupas) – evidence of the city’s glorious past.

As the economic center and capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo offers a vibrant mix of old and new. Between skyscrapers and bustling streets, there are still traces of colonial heritage to be found in the city’s architecture and culture.

• Galle Face Green – a seaside promenade perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
• National Museum – home to an impressive collection of artifacts
• Beira Lake – a tranquil spot in the middle of the city
• Pettah Market – a lively market offering everything from spices to textiles.

Galle, a city that offers a fascinating blend of European architecture and South Asian tradition, is a historical gem. The famous Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see for any visitor.

• Galle Fort – an excellently preserved colonial fort with charming alleys
• Dutch Reformed Church – a historic building with fascinating architecture
• National Maritime Museum – offers a glimpse into the maritime history of Sri Lanka.

Ella is a small, quiet mountain village surrounded by the beautiful green hills of the highlands. With its hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints, Ella is a paradise for nature lovers.

• Ella Gap – a breathtaking viewpoint offering panoramic views of the valleys, tea plantations and mountainsNine Arches Bridge – an impressive colonial railroad bridge.
• Little Adam’s Peak – an easy hike that leads to spectacular views.

7. Trincomalee

Trincomalee, a town on the east coast of Sri Lanka, is known for its pristine beaches and fascinating dive sites. With its rich coral reefs and diverse marine life, Trincomalee is a perfect destination for water lovers.

• Koneswaram Temple – a Hindu temple with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean
• Pigeon Island National Park – a paradise for snorkelers and divers
• Whale Watching – a chance to see humpback and blue whales in their natural environment.

Jaffna, the northernmost city in Sri Lanka, offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich Tamil culture and history. The city is known for its unique culinary offerings and fascinating historical sites.

• Jaffna Fort – a historical fort with an impressive view.
• Nallur Kandaswamy Temple – an important Hindu temple known for its magnificent ceremonies
• Local cuisine – try the unique dishes like Jaffna Crab Curry.

9. Dambulla

Dambulla, known for its golden cave temple complex, is a must for any cultural traveler. The town also provides a good base for visiting the nearby Sigiriya Rock.

• Dambulla Cave Temple – an impressive temple complex with Buddhist murals and statues;
• Sigiriya Rock – a massive rock formation with the ruins of an ancient fortress at the top.
• Elephant Safari – the opportunity to observe elephants in their natural environment.

10. Polonnaruwa

One of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, Polonnaruwa offers an impressive collection of well-preserved ruins and historical sites. Part of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle,” the city reflects the country’s glorious past.

• Gal Vihara – an impressive rock temple with four giant Buddha statues.
• King Parakramabahu Statue – a tribute to the king who led the city to its heyday
• Parakrama Samudraya – a huge artificial lake showing the amazing irrigation techniques of ancient Sri Lanka.

11. Negombo

Negombo, a charming coastal town near Bandaranaike International Airport, is famous for its long sandy beaches and historic Dutch fort. With numerous water sports and a vibrant fishing community, Negombo is an ideal place to immerse yourself in local life.

• Dutch Fort – a historical monument from the colonial era
• Negombo beach – a popular place for relaxation and water sports
• Fish market – a lively scene of daily life.

Yala National Park, although not a traditional urban center, is an absolute must for nature lovers. Known for its high density of leopards, the park also offers a variety of other wildlife and stunning scenery.

• Leopard sightings – one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild
• Bird watching – home to over 200 species of birds.
• Safari tours – guided tours of the park to experience the diverse wildlife.

13. Bentota

Bentota, a popular beach destination on Sri Lanka’s west coast, offers a wealth of water sports. It is also known for the Brief Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden, and its turtle conservation projects.

• Water sports – a variety of activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing and diving.
• Brief Garden – a landscaped garden designed by an artist.
• Turtle Conservation Projects – insights into efforts to conserve endangered sea turtles.

14. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, is a paradise for surfers. It is not only a hotspot for international surfers, but also offers a breathtaking natural landscape and the possibility to observe wildlife in the nearby Kumana National Park.

• Surfing – one of the best surfing destinations in Asia
• Kumana National Park – home to elephants, leopards and a variety of bird species.
• Yoga and meditation – numerous retreats for spiritual relaxation.

15. Mirissa

Mirissa, a small town in the south of Sri Lanka, is known for its stunning beaches and as one of the best places in the world for blue whale watching. With its picturesque sunsets and laid-back lifestyle, Mirissa is the ideal place to relax.

• Whale watching – a chance to see the majestic blue whales in their natural environment.
• Mirissa Beach – a picturesque place to relax and surf; Coconut Tree Hill – a famous lookout point with magnificent views of the ocean.

16. Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa , another popular beach destination, is known for its coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving. The town is also home to a turtle hatchery that works to protect these fascinating creatures.

• Snorkeling and diving – explore the colorful coral reefs.
• Turtle hatchery – learn about the protection of sea turtles
• Beach parties – Hikkaduwa is known for its vibrant nightlife.

17. Unawatuna

Unawatuna, with its beautiful crescent-shaped beach and stunning coral reef, is a true paradise for sunbathers and snorkelers. The town also offers a number of yoga retreats and is known for its relaxed atmosphere.

• Unawatuna beach – ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
• Snorkeling – explore the rich marine life of the coral reef.
• Yoga retreats – perfect for a refreshing and relaxing getaway.

Sri Lanka is truly a treasure for any traveler, with its rich variety of experiences ranging from historical sites and cultural discoveries to breathtaking natural landscapes and adventure activities . The 17 cities and towns featured offer a comprehensive overview of what this fascinating country has to offer. Plan your trip now and be enchanted by the unique beauty and charm of Sri Lanka.

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The 18 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka was described by Marco Polo as one of the finest islands in the world. Its history dates back thousands of years and – despite being relatively small – it has oodles of nature and beauty to admire. Itching to explore? For the country’s most beautiful sights, this is where to go in Sri Lanka.

Adam’s peak, for a mountain pilgrimage.

Natural Feature

Galle, for colonial architecture

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Visit the well-preserved colonial city of Galle , on the southwest coast, for a relaxing city break full of charming Dutch-era villas and seaside views. Plan to see the Dutch-built Galle Fort – the largest remaining European-built sea fort in Asia and a World Heritage Site . Other highlights include the natural harbour, St Mary’s Cathedral, and Galle International Stadium, one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world.

Sigiriya, for a huge rock fortress

Natural Feature, Forest

Yala National Park, for spotting wildlife

Park, Natural Feature

Polonnaruwa, for temple ruins

Ruins, Architectural Landmark

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Bentota, for laid-back vibes

Kandy, for Seeing Buddha's Tooth

Architectural Landmark

This large city is known as the Sacred City of Kandy for its significance to Buddhists. Many travel to the Temple of the Tooth, within the fourth-century royal palace complex, as it’s said to hold Buddha’s tooth – although you can’t actually see it. Elsewhere, Kandy is surrounded by the central highland mountains and is the placeto sample Sinhalese culture – especially if you visit during the Esala Perahera festival in summer.

Nuwara Eliya, for Tea Plantations and Mountains

Forest, Natural Feature

Arugam Bay, for Great Surfing

Dambulla, for Seeing a Cave Temple

Buddhist Temple, Ruins, Architectural Landmark

Udawalawe National Park, for Seeing Elephants

It’s as though you’ve stepped into a wildlife documentary at Udawalawe National Park. The expansive sanctuary, on the borders of Uva and Sabaragamuwa provinces, is well and truly where to go in Sri Lanka for animal-lovers . Between October and April, you’re guaranteed to see elephants while in your 4×4 (since there are around 700 in the area). They share the park with leopards, crocodiles, water buffalos, otters and several species of eagle. The landscape varies as you go, with grasslands and scrublands complemented by rockier, more mountainous areas.

Mirissa, for Beachside Relaxation

Fancy hanging out in a hammock under the sun? Make your way to the beachside village of Mirissa on the south coast, best known for its sandy bays. The namesake beach is particularly popular, from which you can head out on a dolphin- and whale-watching boat trip between May and November. Coconut Tree Hill is also a must-visit destination to watch the sunrise.

Colombo, for a Bustling City Break

Quick start your Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights in the capital . This west-coast metropolis has a skyline that comes alive at night, with the 350m (1,148ft) tall Lotus Tower perhaps the most impressive sight. Here, you can soak up sky-high views of Beira Lake from the observation deck, while tucking into a feast at the revolving restaurant. For natural beauty , head to Crow Island Beach Park and Viharamahadevi Park during the humid summer months.

Ella, for the Iconic Nine Arch Bridge

The mountainous town of Ella is best known for having the stone Nine Arch Bridge, between Ella and Demodara station, built by the British at the turn of the 20th century. You can take the journey from Kandy to Badulla or marvel at it with a trek through the surrounding jungle and tea plantations. This is where to go in Sri Lanka if you can never have too many hiking and photo opportunities – don’t miss waterfalls such as Bomburu Ella, which is the widest in Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura, for Ancient Historical Sites

Ruins, Buddhist Temple, Architectural Landmark

Trincomalee, for Beaches and Diving

The port city of Trincomalee , on the northeast coast, is usually reached by train or bus from the capital – taking around seven hours. Once you’ve made it, put your feet up and enjoy sweeping beaches such as Uppuveli and Coral Cove, before spotting blue whales from Swami Rock Cliff. If you’re a keen diver, visit the Trincomalee Underwater Museum, off Sandy Bay Beach, to see sculptures and cannons.

Jaffna, for Temples, Forts and Markets

If you’re in the northern tip of Sri Lanka, spend a few days enjoying the sights and sounds of Jaffna , which is off the main tourist track. Cultural highlights include visiting the arches of the gilded Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu temple, which is one of the most significant Hindu temples in the country, and the Instagrammable Jaffna Fort, built in the 17th century by the Portuguese. More photogenic moments will be found at Jaffna Market, where you’ll find traditional sweet treats, colourful fruits and vegetables, and exotic souvenirs .

Tangalle, for the Best Beaches in the Country

Don’t forget to pack your beach gear if you’re heading to Tangalle. This coastal city, around three hours south of Colombo, has some of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka , including the palm-fringed Tangalle Beach and Rekawa Beach, the latter being a top spot to watch turtles lay their eggs. If surfing is your thing, hit Hiriketiya Beach, which has year-round great waves for all abilities, including a more advanced reef break. Just fancy sunbathing and splashing around? Calmer waters are found at Goyambokka Beach.

Sadie Whitelocks contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Must Visit Places in Sri Lanka

World's End Nuwara Eliya

Yala National Park

Galle Face Green

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sinharaja Forest Reserve (kingdom of the lion), is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. It is home to a vast number of endemic species of birds and mammals of Sri Lanka. About 95 per cent of Sri Lankan endemic birds and more than 50 per cent of endemic mammals are known to have their habitats in this Forest Reserve. 

Year round, the forest is covered by plenty of rain clouds. It is one of the famous places to visit in Galle. You can experience the leisurely pace of wildlife and the splendour of dense and copious evergreen rainforests.  Location: Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Southern Province Timings: Opens daily from 6:30 AM to 6 PM Price: Approximate price ranges from INR 260 to INR460 (664 LKR to 1160 LKR) You Can Checkout Great Discounts On:  Overnight Desert Safari Dubai

St Anthony's Church

• Nuwara Eliya

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Bentota Beach

St. Clairs Falls, Tawalantenne

International Buddhist Museum

Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province

Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanwelisaya, located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is a sacred Buddhist stupa. Dating back to 140 BCE, it stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship and religious significance. The large hemispherical dome, adorned with intricate carvings and surrounded by a serene courtyard, attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. Ruwanwelisaya stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage, drawing visitors to its spiritual ambiance.

Polonnaruwa Sacred City

Visit Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage

Anuradhapura

The Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications

Horton Plains National Park

Dehiwala Zoo

Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya

Nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Falls, the island nation's tallest waterfall at 263 meters, stands as a captivating highlight on Sri Lanka tour itineraries. Accessible through Haldummulla, the journey unveils scenic landscapes and tea plantations. Visitors relish the refreshing mist and serene atmosphere, making it a tranquil stop. Serving as a base for treks to nearby mountains, Bambarakanda offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes and seeking a picturesque escape into the country's pristine wilderness. The falls add a majestic touch to Sri Lanka tours , inviting travelers to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

Places to Visit in Colombo

Stroll dutch reformed church.

Attidiya Bird Sanctuary

Udawalawe National Park

Tea and Herb Tour in Colombo

Gangaramaya Temple

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka Cricket Museum

Panadura Beach

Viharamahadevi Park

Places to Visit in Kandy

Kandy view point.

National Museum of Kandy

Arthur's Seat

Royal Palace of Kandy

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Independence Memorial Hall

Dambulla Cave Temple

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Kandy Lake, created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a picturesque and serene spot in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Adjacent to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, the lake offers a tranquil retreat with scenic walking paths, lush surroundings, and historical charm. Go for a tour on the Kandy lake with your friends and family for an incredible experience! 

Top Experiences To Do in Kandy Lake

Places to Visit in Galle

Galle fort lighthouse.

The Galle Fort Lighthouse, situated within the historic Galle Fort in Sri Lanka, is a picturesque maritime landmark with a storied past. Originally constructed by the British in 1848, the lighthouse stands proudly atop the fort's ramparts, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the charming coastal surroundings. Renovated in recent years, it continues to guide ships and stands as a symbol of Galle's maritime heritage, attracting visitors with its scenic allure.

Top Experiences To Do in Galle Fort Lighthouse

Galle Dutch Fort

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Unawatuna Beach

Sea Turtle Hatchery

A sea turtle hatchery is a vital conservation initiative aimed at protecting endangered sea turtles. These facilities provide a safe environment for turtle eggs to hatch, ensuring the survival of vulnerable hatchlings. Dedicated to preserving marine biodiversity, hatcheries often engage in educational efforts to raise awareness about sea turtles' threats and promote responsible conservation practices. Visitors can witness the marvel of newly hatched turtles and learn about ongoing conservation efforts.

Jungle Beach

Jungle Beach in Sri Lanka is a pristine coastal haven, tucked away near Trincomalee. Accessible through lush jungle trails, this secluded paradise boasts golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a serene ambiance. Surrounded by dense vegetation, it offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Jungle Beach is renowned for its untouched beauty, providing an idyllic setting where visitors can relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Sri Lanka's coastline.

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Koggala Beach

Places to Visit in Ella

Mahamevnawa monastery.

The Mahamevnawa Monastery is one of the most important and revered Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka founded by Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero and is amongst the top places to visit in Ella. This monastery serves as an educational institution for young people and adults who want to be ordained as monks. 

Sri Lankan artists have adorned the Monastery with striking carvings, murals, and painting. Here, you can not only talk freely to the monks but also take personalised meditation lectures from them. Listening to the reverberating Buddhist hymns amidst the peaceful environs is a tranquil experience. 

Location: Bandarawela, Ella

Timings: 8:00 am- 9:00 pm every day of the week

Price: There is no entry fee

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Mirissa beach.

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Places to Visit in Bentota

Bentota lake.

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The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, nestled in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a revered spiritual destination often featured in Sri Lanka tour packages. Home to the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting intricate Kandyan architecture and serene surroundings. Pilgrims and visitors are captivated by the rich cultural heritage and the daily rituals that honor the relic. The Esala Perahera, an elaborate annual procession, further enhances the temple's significance. Including a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka tour packages ensures a profound cultural and spiritual experience amidst the historical and religious grandeur of Kandy.

Adam's peak is a tall mountain of religious significance located in central Sri Lanka. This mountain is of religious significance for both the Hindus and the Buddhists. While the Buddhists believe that it has the footprint of Buddha, the Hindus believe that it is the footprint of Hanuman. The mountain is more than 2000 metres tall and is in a conical shape. It is alternatively known as Mount Lanka, Ratnagiri and Malayagiri. In fact, this mountain is also the origin point of three rivers- Kelani, Walawe and the Kalu Ganga. The mountain comes with six hiking trails that come with the best views from the top. Even prominent travellers like Fa Hien and Marco Polo have written about this hill during their travels. Apart from being a cultural landmark, Adams Peak also has geographical significance and continues to attract tourists from around the world. 

Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks in Sri Lanka beckon wildlife enthusiasts with their breathtaking landscapes. Often featured in Sri Lanka packages, these parks are famed for their annual gathering of elephants, known as "The Gathering." The vast reservoirs and lush surroundings provide a haven for diverse wildlife, including leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. The unique spectacle of hundreds of elephants converging is a captivating experience, making Minneriya and Kaudulla essential stops for those seeking an immersive encounter with nature's wonders. Including these national parks in Sri Lanka packages ensures a thrilling exploration of the island's rich biodiversity and natural beauty.Best For: Getting close to large herds of elephants. Best time to visit is during May to September to watch large number of elephants. Location: 182-197 KM away from Colombo. Price: Safari Price is LKR 6,500 for each National Park. Additional Price: Tickets per adult is LKR 1,500 and per child is LKR 750. Duration: safari duration is 4 hours. Timing: Evening Safari 2.30am to 6.30pm and morning safari is 5:00am to 8:00am.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Colombo

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman visited Sri Lanka and spent time seeing the sights of Columbo.

Sri Lanka's capital city of Colombo seamlessly combines the incredible culture and history of the island with modern tourist attractions and amenities. The city's unique colonial history (Portuguese, Dutch, and British) adds additional layers to the mix. As the country's capital city, it's also filled with museums and places to visit that illustrate Sri Lanka's rich history.

Too many visitors merely land in Colombo and head directly to one of the country's resort areas. Spend a day or two in the capital, and you'll be rewarded with a deeper understanding of the island's culture.

The main central business district area is known as Fort, and that's where you'll find a lot of the best places to visit in Colombo like government buildings, museums, luxury shopping, and large hotels. The area is named for the original Portuguese fort, which guarded the harbor area. Directly in front of Fort is the Galle Face Green, a large oceanfront park.

Plan your sightseeing in Sri Lanka's capital with our list of the best places to visit in Colombo.

1. Lotus Tower

2. national museum of colombo, 3. sri lanka planetarium, 4. viharamahadevi park, 5. national zoological gardens of sri lanka, 6. nelum pokuna mahinda rajapaksa theatre, 7. mount lavinia beach, 8. national museum of natural history, 9. gangaramaya temple, 10. excel world entertainment park, 11. galle face green, 12. colombo dutch museum, 13. pettah floating market, 14. red mosque, 15. kanatte general cemetery, 16. bere lake, 17. national railway museum, where to stay in colombo for sightseeing, map of places to visit in colombo.

One of the coolest (and highest) places to visit in Colombo is also one of the city's newest things to do. The Colombo Lotus Tower is South Asia's tallest freestanding structure (368 meters/1,168 feet), and a trip to the top rewards visitors with unobstructed views across Colombo and the surrounding cityscape and sea.

The tower, which houses a lot of telecommunications equipment, has an e-sports arena and a 5G VR Innovation Center, a shopping mall (at the base), a revolving fine dining restaurant, and indoor and outdoor observation areas. The tower is also a sight to see from the outside — it's covered in LED lighting and presents seasonal-themed lighting displays each night.

The Lotus Tower, also called the Nelum Kuluna, is designed to replicate a lotus bulb and flower, simultaneously representing the historic culture of the country and its focus on the future.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

The National Museum of Colombo , also called the Sri Lanka National Museum, is the official museum of Sri Lanka and takes you on a journey over the thousands of years of Sri Lankan culture.

It's one of those museums that has multiple types of media, from artwork to artifacts, as well as clothing, jewelry, coins, arms, and craftwork. The displays show both the cultural and natural heritage of the country, presented chronologically, starting with pre-history and leading to the present day.

The Sri Lanka National Museum was started in 1877 during the colonial period by the governor of the island, which was then a British territory called Ceylon.

Give yourself a few hours to fully explore the collections. The museum is housed in its original, grand purpose-built Victorian colonial building in central Colombo near Viharamahadevi Park.

Sri Lanka's first (and only) planetarium can be a fascinating way to escape the hot sun. The Sri Lanka Planetarium is located at the University of Colombo . There's a public entrance across from Independence Square. The large auditorium has 570 seats with a domed ceiling, and the night sky and its constellations are projected onto it.

Aside from the exhibits and programming, the structure itself is architecturally striking and a must-do for Instagram. The lotus flower design shares elements with iconic modernist cathedrals in Liverpool, England, and Brazil.

The Sri Lanka Planetarium is open from 8am to 4pm every day except Mondays. 90-minute public shows are presented on Saturdays at 10am and 2pm, and tickets are less than $1. In addition to the planetarium, there's an outdoor Science Activity Park where kids can play and learn about space exploration and travel.

This giant green space is Colombo's Central Park (and one of its only large open-space areas) and provides areas to relax and enjoy (or escape from) the sunshine. Now named for one of the country's ancient queens, the park was formerly called Victoria Park. Viharamahadevi Park sits between the National Museum of Colombo and City Hall.

The are many fountains in the park, as well as a small zoo . Kids will enjoy the playground. You can visit the Cenotaph War Memorial (a monument dedicated to Sri Lankan soldiers killed in both world wars), as well as the Columbo Public Library , both of which are located in the park. The park is also home to a large, 15-foot-tall Buddha statue , the largest cast brass Buddha statue in the country.

There is a very nice walking path around the perimeter of the park — a lap is about a half-mile (1 kilometer). There are snack stands along the route to get some food and lots of benches and areas to sit and relax. Another fun thing to do is to rent a bicycle and ride on the many designated bike paths.

Formally known as the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens , the city's large Colombo Zoo is located in the Dehiwala area. More than just animals in cages, the zoo focuses on education, as well as animal conservation and welfare. One of the oldest zoos in Asia , it's home to almost 3,000 different animals of all shapes and sizes. The zoo has daily demonstrations with keepers of various animals.

The Columbo Zoo is open seven days a week, from 8:30am to 6pm. In addition to the urban zoo in Dehiwala, in the city of Pinnawala, about two hours outside of Colombo, there is a larger wildlife park, the Pinnawala Zoo and the Pinnawala Elephant Sanctuary , both operated by the country's Department of Zoological Gardens.

This large, modern performing arts complex hosts a wide range of music, dance, and cultural performances. It was recently renamed for the country's former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa. Like many other things in Sri Lanka, the design is intentionally reminiscent of a lotus flower, and the name, "Nelum Pokuna" means lotus pond in the local Sinhala language.

Programming at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre includes symphony performances and opera (Chinese, Sri Lankan, and Western). They also do modern pop concerts . Performances are given in the main auditorium or in the open-air amphitheater. The theater is in central Colombo, across from Viharamahadevi Park.

The theater's schedule can be viewed online, and tickets can be purchased online as well. It's a cool place to visit in Colombo because regardless of what you go to see, you'll find yourself surrounded by locals.

Sri Lanka's main beach resort town , Mount Lavinia is a suburb of Colombo. There are many hotels here, and it can be a good alternative to staying in the city. It's an easy 30-minute drive from downtown Colombo (or a 15-minute train ride) and a fun way to spend an afternoon or a few days.

The main stretch of beach is known as the Golden Mile, and it's filled with tourist-focused businesses, as well as an active nightlife scene. Mount Lavinia has also become popular as an LGBTQ+-friendly area, hosting an annual Pride-themed Rainbow Kite Festival in June.

Use caution when swimming as the beach is not a protected bay, so the water can be very rough during certain times of the year. There are some very nice restaurants along the beachfront promenade, and the beach itself is filled with vendors selling everything from food to bathing suits. If you stay at the beach past 6pm, you'll be rewarded with an incredible sunset view.

There is much history to explore here as well. Be sure to stop in the Mount Lavinia Hotel , built in the early 19th century as the governor's mansion, now a classic, colonial grande dame luxury hotel.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Sri Lanka

Located right near the Colombo National Museum, across from Viharamahadevi Park in central Colombo, the National Museum of Natural History showcases the country's incredible flora and fauna.

Plants, insects, fish, amphibians, and animals are displayed, exclusively those that are endemic to the country. Many rare animals shown are threatened with extinction. Aside from plants, there are many displays of rocks and minerals, also those that are native to the island.

In addition to the animals and plants, there are skeletons and fossils of ancient and extinct creatures including dinosaurs. The museum is one of the best places to visit in Columbo for families and kids.

This Buddhist temple complex was constructed in the late 19 th century. The temple is a place of worship but also looks to educate people about Buddhism. It's also like a museum, as it showcases a lot of physical items, from jewelry to coins and even a vintage Rolls-Royce.

You can also view the temple's most sacred religious relic, a lock of the Buddha's hair, as well as a sacred tree around which the temple was built. Visit during the February full moon (called "Poya") to see the Gangaramaya Temple's annual colorful religious ceremony, which includes a procession led by the temple's elephant.

The temple complex is in central Colombo not far from Bere Lake.

If you have kids and you're visiting Colombo, this compact amusement center needs to be on your itinerary. The Excel World Entertainment Park is a fun local experience with a shopping mall, a few rides, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a food court . There's also a movie theater (showing Western and Bollywood films). The bowling alley is especially popular, as it's the only one in Colombo.

Things to do at the park include laser tag, a carousel, bumper cars, and a bounce house. If you visit during December, the mall is known for bringing in snow to create an indoor winter wonderland called Snow World. It's the only place in Sri Lanka to celebrate a White Christmas, complete with Santa Claus.

Excel World is right next to Beira Lake.

This large, oceanfront park area is where many Sri Lankans go to play on the beach. The park is between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean, right in the heart of Colombo next to the Fort area.

It's the largest open space in the city and has 500 meters of beach, along with a beachfront promenade filled with vendors . Colombo's hot sunshine means this is also a popular area for night fun — Saturday and Sunday nights are the best times to visit.

You can wade in the water, picnic on the beach, or fly a kite in the ever-present wind. It's a fun place for families, and it's also good for running.

Colombo's colonial history (it's been a British, Dutch, and Portuguese colony at different times) contributes so much to its current culture. You can learn all about the Dutch influence and history of the island at the Colombo Dutch Museum . The collection includes artifacts, artwork, and furniture, as well as arms and militaria. There is information in English.

The museum building was built in the late 17 th century as the official residence of the Dutch governor. The collection highlights the almost 200-year history of Dutch control of the island's coastal areas, from 1640 to 1796. The island, then known as Ceylon, served as a key stop in Holland's world trade, as it sat on one of the important east-west shipping routes of the country's Dutch East India Company.

Starting around the year 2000, this formerly industrial area of Colombo was redeveloped into a thriving floating market with almost 100 vendors. Pettah is in central Colombo, about a five-minute drive from Fort.

The floating market is along a canal, lined with sidewalks and wooden boardwalks. They both line and cross the canal, making it a fun area for shopping, strolling, and people-watching. There is great street food here as well. It's also a fruit and vegetable market. You can buy clothes, crafts, jewelry, and even electronics like phones.

Pettah Floating Market is open from 8am to 8pm; sunset is a great time to visit and for photos (about 5pm).

While you're in the Pettah area, visit the city's incredible Red Mosque, known formally as the Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid. It was built in the early part of the 20 th century and makes quite a statement with its red and white stone minarets, topped with onion- and pomegranate-shaped domes. They tower over the area, and the domes give the building an almost Russian feel to it, architecturally. The style is called "Indo-Saracenic."

The mosque is near the port, and its contrasting red and white colors made it a visual landmark for arriving ships. It's especially interesting, as the red and white bricks are arranged in different patterns. Some swirl, some spiral, and other areas have alternating colors with a near optical illusional effect.

Visitors, both men and women, are welcome to visit the mosque.

Cemeteries can be interesting places to visit, as they permanently document the local culture. Kanatte is the city's main cemetery and was opened in the mid-19 th century. It has a fascinating mix of memorials, representing all religions and beliefs. Each has its own section, and each has their own style of physical memorials.

The cemetery is also a popular place to visit for science fiction fans, as it's the final resting place of iconic sci-fi writer Arthur C. Clarke ( 2001: A Space Odyssey ). Clarke was born in Sri Lanka when it was a British colony and later retired here.

The cemetery is in the Borella area, just south and east of central Colombo.

Another one of Colombo's most popular places to picnic, relax, and go boating or running is Bere Lake. This man-made lake (not to be confused with its larger neighbor, Beira Lake) is surrounded by a lot of green space, yet it's right in the middle of the city.

The area is also filled with jogging paths, and it's a great place for running and biking. There are swan boats you can rent and paddle your way around the lake. There are some snack shops and a floating, fine-dining restaurant. The restaurant is on a boat and floats around during a dinner cruise.

Bere Lake has its own island (connected by a suspension footbridge). The island is a popular spot for couples to take romantic walks. Elsewhere in the lake, there's a small Buddhist temple (Gangarama Seema Malaka) set into the water on several piers. The lake is a great location to take photos, especially at night. You have a beautiful, outdoor environment with the skyline of Colombo as the backdrop.

Train buffs and trainspotters will want to visit this open-air museum in Central Colombo, near the city's main Maradana Railway Station. While there is the larger National Railway Museum in Kadugannawa, near Kandy, this original one in Colombo has a respectable collection of carriages, rolling stock, and locomotives, including many steam engines.

The museum is open every day from 9am to 4pm, closing on holidays.

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxe Cinnamon Grand Colombo is a destination resort with 14 restaurants, two gorgeous swimming pools, a spa, two fitness centers, and tennis courts. It is also located next to one of Colombo's best high-end shopping malls: Crescat Boulevard. The rooms and suites are generous in size and elegantly decorated. There is a pillow menu and 24-hour room service, and if you're traveling with the kids, interconnected rooms are available.
• Taj Samudra Colombo faces the Indian Ocean in the heart of downtown Colombo. The rooms and suites come in a number of configurations, and many have ocean views. Interconnected rooms are available if you're traveling with kids. The property is actually very family-friendly, with kids staying free and children's menus in the restaurants. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. There is often live entertainment in one of the restaurants at night.
• Another top 5-star choice in the heart of Colombo is The Kingsbury Hotel . Facing the sea, it has classic rooms and suites with a sea-green and white color scheme and glass window walls. There are interconnected room options for families. Amenities include a number of restaurants serving food from across the globe. There is also pool, fitness center, and a spa on-site.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• ME Colombo is a great mid-range choice. The design hotel in the middle of downtown features just 22 rooms all with elegant decor and fabulous views from giant windows. Amenities include an infinity swimming pool, a hot tub, restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic skyline views.
• Another good-value choice is Marino Beach Colombo . The hotel has nearly 300 rooms and suites that are spacious and comfortable, and many have Indian Ocean views. One of the top amenities is the rooftop infinity pool that runs almost the entire length of the building with fantastic views. It also has a large hot tub. Other amenities feature a free breakfast, a restaurant, and a workout room.
• Cinnamon Red Colombo is a centrally located hotel that is good value for money. It offers a mix of trendy rooms and suites with contemporary and colorful decor. Some have ocean views. All come with blackout curtains and are soundproofed. The infinity swimming pool here has fabulous city and ocean views. There is also a restaurant and workout room on-site.

Budget Hotels:

• City Beds The Regent offers soundproof rooms that are spacious and tidy and even have a little bit of style to them. The budget hotel is located near the Old Dutch Hospital Complex. There is a shared kitchen if you want to cook for yourself. Other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, parking, and airport transport.
• Another good budget choice is the Sapphire Hotel . It has colorful rooms including family rooms. Amenities include a swimming pool, a restaurant serving a complimentary breakfast, and free parking.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Visiting Sri Lanka: There is more to see here than just Colombo. If you are in the process of planning your trip to Sri Lanka and wondering where to go and what to do, see our guide to the Top Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka . For sun and sand, be sure to have a read through our list of the Best Beaches in Sri Lanka .

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

If you are a regular reader here, you might already know that I come from a middle-class family in Sri Lanka. And like most middle-income families in Sri Lanka, we weren't familiar with a lot of travelling growing up. So, do not be surprised when I tell you that I asked this very question (Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?) from my manager when I freshly joined a travel agency as a Tour Coordinator in 2014.

After travelling all over Sri Lanka over the last 8 years, I can tell you with absolute certainty that Sri Lanka is well worth visiting. However, do not take my word for it.

The well-renowned travel guidebook publisher, Lonely Planet, named Sri Lanka the best destination to travel to in 2019. This year CNN Travel listed Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, as one of the must-visit destinations in the world.

If you are still not convinced Sri Lanka is worth visiting, keep reading. In today's Travellers Isle article, I will explain why Sri Lanka is an excellent choice for your next holiday.

Why is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Three main things make Sri Lanka well worth visiting. Namely, its diverse travel experiences, year-round great weather and the affordability. Let us explore these factors one by one:

1. A Wide Range of Travel Experiences

You can expect to see so much diversity in landscapes, architecture, and culture within Sri Lanka's total land area of 65,610 square kilometres (roughly 1/4th the size of the United Kingdom).

This diverse nature of the country makes it a great holiday destination, especially for families travelling with little ones. You will have no problem finding activities that match the taste of everyone in your family when travelling this picturesque island nation.

Here are some of the popular travel experiences for which Sri Lanka is famous:

Note - You may check the travel times between popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka here .

Wildlife safaris

One of the main reasons for visiting Sri Lanka is its abundant wildlife and natural resources, unparalleled in other countries in the region.

Head off the beaten path on a wildlife safari at any one of the major national parks in the country for a unique and captivating holiday experience on the island. You can take in an authentic wildlife safari as you head into the thick of the jungle in a 4x4 vehicle.

Some of the key attractions in the Sri Lankan wildlife safaris are the elephants, leopards, and sloth bears, all subspecies native to the land.

While the Sri Lankan Elephant can be easily seen in the most significant national parks, the leopards and the sloth bear are elusive creatures that are more difficult to spot. Your best chance to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures is in the Yala National Park in the south of Sri Lanka.

And that's not all. Among the 100+ species of mammals that roam the wilderness, wild boar, spotted deer, macaques, and the sambar deer are some of the other familiar sights to behold on your Sri Lankan safari.

The diverse landscapes in the country, from wetland to dry arid regions and inland lagoons shrouded in mangroves, offer a range of habitats for over 300 species of birds, reptiles and amphibians that call the island their home.

Hiking and trekking

Another great reason to visit Sri Lanka is its beautiful hiking trails.

The tea country in the central highlands offer fantastic destinations for the nature-loving, hiking enthusiast. Within a 4-hour car journey from the Colombo airport, you can reach the town of Hatton, which is at the heart of the tea capital in Sri Lanka.

Adam's Peak mountain, which can be reached via Hatton, offers one of the most recognized hiking trails with multiple routes you can take to reach the top. Towering over 2200m in height, you require 4 to 8 hours to complete the hike, depending on your fitness levels and the chosen hiking trail.

For less intensive high-altitude hiking expeditions,  head towards the town of Ella tucked away in the Badulla region.

For a bucket-list-worthy travel experience, consider the train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, as it offers some of the most scenic views your eyes can behold. Make note, the train ride from Nanu Oya will take you approximately  4 hours to reach Ella, whereas the trip can be made within 2 hours by road.

In Ella, you can embark on a number of nature walks and hikes.

If you're travelling with family and have little ones on tow, I highly recommend Little Adams Peak. It will take less than two hours to reach the summit on its relatively moderate trail.

Brace yourself for breath-taking views of the mountainous landscape and lavish tea plantations spread out for miles beneath you. Aim to be at the top during sunset to capture some of the most stunning images on your camera reel.

Another convenient trail to explore with your family is the 9 Arch Bridge in Ella. A 30-minute walk from the Ella town will take you to the majestic construction dating back to the British Colonial period. Built purely of cement, rock and bricks, this fascinating 'Bridge in the Sky' stands at about 100ft in height and 300ft in length and is a must to capture in your travel photo reel.

Water sports & ocean expeditions

If you're a water sports enthusiast, get ready to buckle down for some adventure as you go white water rafting along the Kelani river. The turbulent waters of the Kelani river during the months of May to December are perfect for thrill-seeking travellers with an affinity for water sports.

Here's a fun fact: Kithulgala was the destination for filming the epic 1950s film Bridge on the River Kwai!

Surfing and scuba diving are other favourite water sports for tourists in Sri Lanka. If you're a beginner or intermediate surfer, head over to the calmer waters of the Weligama Bay for some practise lessons and get your feet wet!

Rideable waves in Weligama are most prominent from December to April. This region is also great for experiencing an ocean safari where you can take your family on an unforgettable dolphin and whale watching expedition.

Pro surfers touring the county's south coast can experience the full force of great waves and offshore winds in the Hikkaduwa and Hiriketiya areas during the period December to April. Yet, Arugam Bay on the island's east coast is arguably the most popular among intermediate and advanced surfers as it offers some of the best surf spots in South Asia. You can find the entire surf community headed this way during the period May to October to enjoy the epic waves of Arugam Bay.

While you're on the east coast, make use of the fantastic dive spots where you can swim with reef sharks and giant turtles. Visit Pigeon Island off the coast of Trincomalee, where you can explore the mysterious waters of the deep seas and take in the abundant marine life amidst its breath-taking coral reefs.

Historical sites

Home to some of the most significant historical treasures in the South Asian region, you must explore at least a couple of the major historical sites while you're in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya is a world-renowned landmark destination that dates back to 5th century, where you can explore the ruins of the ancient 'Palace in the Sky' as you ascend to the top of the rock through the lion's staircase.

Anuradhapura and Pollonnaruwa in the North Central Province offer the ruins of entire ancient kingdoms and religious monuments, some of which still stand strong. These display the intricate rock carvings and architectural wonders of this forgotten era.

For a little piece of history from the country's colonial-era, you should head down to Galle Fort. The old trading port town offers a unique blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence through its elegant architecture. You may wander through the quaint little cobblestone streets, explore the Galle Maritime Museum, and visit the Dutch Reformed Church amidst a variety of trendy little cafes and boutiques that provide a charming atmosphere to this beachside town.

Mouth-watering cuisine

A trip to Sri Lanka cannot be complete without indulging in its authentic cuisine. A divine range of herbs, spices, and coconuts found in abundance within the island play a pivotal role in the taste profile of the Sri Lankan gastronomical experience.

The popular Sri Lankan main meal of rice and curry incorporates boiled rice with an assortment of vegetable and fish curries made with rich coconut milk and fragrant spices. You can also expect to be served a range of pickled fruits and vegetables and chutneys together with shredded greens mixed with coconut, crushed red onions, and a dash of lime and salt with almost every traditional rice meal.

Other local favourites to try are Hoppers with Katta Sambol, and Pittu served with more coconut-based curries. You are bound to appreciate not only the range of choices and delectable flavours that are on offer with every Sri Lankan meal but also the painstaking effort and time that goes into the careful preparation of each delightful dish you're being served.

2. Sri Lanka is a Year-Round Travel Destination

While December to March is the best time to travel Sri Lanka for tourists hoping to escape the harsh winters of the west, the country offers great weather all year round. If you are a sunseeker looking to travel and cannot make it during the peak season, fear not, as there are always places with sunny weather in this picturesque island nation, and at a great price.

If you are visiting Sri Lanka during the period November to April, you may choose the cultural triangle, hill country, and the coastal regions of the south and the west for your trip. If your plan is to visit the country during the period May to October, visiting the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka will allow you to have the best weather conditions during your holiday.

3. Sri Lanka is Affordable

With a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from and a range of activities to engage in all across the island, you can curate an action-packed, memorable holiday experience in Sri Lanka that is suitable to your budget.

Sri Lanka is a relatively inexpensive holiday destination, especially compared to destinations like Maldives. To give you some context: you can spend 10-days in Sri Lanka with 5-star accommodation for the cost of a 5-day holiday in  Maldives.

Add to that fact that there is so much more you can do and see in Sri Lanka, all concentrated within its minute landmass, and you know you have a holiday destination worth visiting!

In answer to your question "Is Sri Lanka worth visiting", it is most definitely so!

Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful countries in the South Asia. Not only is it reasonably affordable to travel to Sri Lanka, but the multitude of experiences you can hope for within just 14-day holiday makes it well worth a visit. Sri Lanka is also a true year-round travel destination.

Whether you're travelling with family or are looking for an exciting holiday getaway with your partner, you can't go wrong by choosing Sri Lanka as your next travel destination.

Hope this bit of information can help you plan out your next island holiday!

Happy travels!

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Pls can recommend visiting places in Sri Lanka for family group. Around 1week

Hi Chezhian,

Following are two itineraries that can be recommended for a 7-day Sri Lanka family holiday. If you would like to see a detailed itinerary for this, please drop us a message specifying your requirements. We would love to help your family.

Airport – Negombo (1 night) – Dambulla (2 nights) – Kandy (1 night) – Bentota (2 nights) – Airport

Airport – Negombo (1 night) – Kandy (2 night) – Bentota (3 nights) – Airport

Is Sri Lanka a suitable holiday for a 76 and 78 couple. I have been told there is a lot of walking involved. we are relativity fit

There are many sites in Sri Lanka that do not involve a lot of walking. For example, Kandy Temple of the Tooth, Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Peradeniya Botanical Garden (You can take an electric buggy car to take you around), Udawalawe National Park jeep safari, Elephant Transit Home, and more. Sri Lanka is also famous for its beautiful beaches that are excellent for relaxation. I am sure you will enjoy the country very much if you give it a try. It is a perfectly good choice for someone in their seventies.

Is Srilanka good for travelling with a 1 year old baby?

Of course, it is a great country to travel with a 1-year-old baby. Please refer to our article, Sri Lanka with a baby, for more information.

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OT Travel Itinerary: 5-Day Offbeat Sri Lanka Guide

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers a captivating mix of ancient customs, lush scenery, and a wide range of cultural wonders. Known for its exceptional warmth, the country invites visitors to wander through terraced hills covered with tea plantations, explore ancient temples steeped in history, and savour its aromatic cuisine's diverse and captivating flavours. Sri Lanka offers many unique experiences for all kinds of travellers, from families to those seeking solo adventure. From Colombo to Ella, and Bentota in the south coast, here is a comprehensive five-day itinerary guide.

DAY 1 - COLOMBO

Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, is a city that beautifully blends the old with the new, offering visitors a mix of historical charm and modern excitement.

Start your day at the National Museum of Colombo, where you can explore an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient relics from Sri Lanka’s past, stone carvings, and historical manuscripts. Housed in a colonial-era building, the museum offers insights into the island's diverse heritage. After that, head to the nearby Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most iconic temples in the city.

Immerse yourself in Colombo's vibrant history by exploring the bustling Colombo Fort, the city's financial and commercial centre. Uncover its colonial past with a guided walking tour with must-see landmarks such as the Old Colombo Dutch Hospital, the Central Bank, and the iconic Clock Tower.

As the day ends, unwind at the picturesque Mount Lavinia Beach. Indulge in swimming, sunbathing, or partake in thrilling water sports. Take the time to wander through the local area, where charming shops and cosy cafes await. And make sure to take advantage of the lively beachside dining scene that Mount Lavinia offers in the evening.

DAY 2 - KANDY

Kandy, often referred to as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is located 144 km from Colombo. This city boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century when it served as the last capital of the ancient kings' era. Kandy played a vital role in preserving the sacred tooth relic of Buddha, solidifying its status as a significant religious centre. The city's vibrant culture and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka's rich heritage.

Start your day at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, where you'll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of a Buddhist sanctuary housing the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a magnificent golden roof that exemplifies the intricate and breathtaking Kandyan architectural style. It serves as not only a place of worship but also a place of profound spiritual significance and tranquility.

Take in the beauty of Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, located at the city's heart. This man-made lake, constructed in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a stunning sight near the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Surrounded by hills and pathways, the lake features an artificial island, providing a picturesque and tranquil escape. Kandy Lake is a paradise for birdwatchers as it attracts a variety of bird species.

Situated just 5.5 km west of the vibrant city of Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are a true marvel nestled alongside the serene Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka. Encompassing a 147-acre expanse, the botanical gardens showcase over 4,000 plant species, including rare orchids, fragrant spices, potent medicinal plants, and graceful palm trees. Visitors can leisurely wander through the garden's winding paths or opt for an enchanting ride aboard a golf buggy, immersing themselves in the captivating allure of this natural wonderland.

DAY 3 - ELLA

Ella in Sri Lanka's highlands attracts travelers with its mountain forests, tea plantations, cool climate, wildlife, caves, waterfalls, temples, and the Ella Gap's lofty views.

Take the train from Kandy to Ella. Embark on an unforgettable journey from Kandy to Ella, experiencing one of the most captivating travel adventures in the country. The train will guide you through breathtaking landscapes, including lush tea plantations, dense jungles, and majestic mountains. As the journey unfolds, the train ascends into the verdant hilltop tea plantations and cascading waterfalls, creating a truly magical experience. The friendly locals on board add to the welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal opportunity for couples to cosy up by a window seat and witness the unfolding of picturesque vistas. Additionally, the train crosses numerous remarkable bridges that showcase incredible engineering feats, with the Nine Arches Bridge near Ella standing out, boasting impressive architecture.

Afternoon-Evening

Embark on an exhilarating hike to Ella Rock, approximately 10 kilometres from the town of Ella. The challenging ascent takes you through enchanting forest trails, offering ample shade. Depending on your physical fitness and prior hiking experience, the journey typically spans 2-4 hours. The trail features steep and rocky sections, posing a considerable challenge for novice hikers. It's advisable to carry an abundant water supply, a sun hat, and sturdy hiking footwear to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

DAY 4 - NUWARA ELIYA

Tucked away amidst verdant and lush tea-covered hills and beneath the imposing Pidurutalagala Mountain, Nuwara Eliya is fondly referred to as Sri Lanka's "Little England" due to its striking resemblance to a quaint English country village and its captivating Victorian-era architecture. This charming town, once occupied by the Kandyan Kingdom, was established as a retreat by Sir Edward Barnes in the mid-19th century. The region's distinctly British flavour offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty.

Morning-Afternoon

Experience the unparalleled beauty of Nuwara Eliya's celebrated tea plantations, famous for producing some of the world's most exquisite and refined teas, often hailed as "the Champagne of Ceylon". Take in the awe-inspiring vistas of immaculately maintained tea bushes, mist-draped hills, and enchanting colonial-era bungalows. At Nuwara Eliya Tea Plantation, immerse yourself in the meticulous art of tea cultivation, plucking, and processing, and discover the essence of pure indulgence.

One of the noteworthy attractions in Nuwara Eliya is the man-made Lake Gregory, which was meticulously established by Sir William Gregory, the governor, in 1873. The city's centre is home to one of the oldest operational post offices in Sri Lanka, adding to the town's historical charm.

Day 5 - BENTOTA

Bentota, situated on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, is consistently ranked among the world's most stunning beaches. Its expansive golden shoreline leads to a sandbar between the Indian Ocean and a vast lagoon. Boasting an array of water sports, safe swimming conditions, and vigilant lifeguards, Bentota is an ideal destination if you want to spend your last day with a dose of water sports. Delight in a captivating river cruise through mangroves and watch for crocodiles. Notably, Bentota is dedicated to preserving sea turtles, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the remarkable conservation efforts at one of the hatcheries.

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11 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for First-time Visitors

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Defined by many as one of the finest islands in the world, Sri Lanka has seduced travelers for centuries. It has so much variety to offer and is definitely a place you must visit once in a lifetime. In this charming island, you will have the opportunity to experience and see so many different things. From beautiful beaches to ancient ruins, from picturesque cities to local temples, not to mention the amazing diversity of its wildlife. The good news is that  Sri Lanka entered in travelers radar only lately. It means that now is the perfect time to get on a plane and go there! Here is a list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for first-time visitors that will transform your travel into a life-changing experience.

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1 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Check out the recommended hotels in Sigiriya

?  Sigiriya and the Lion Rock

2 – Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth

Check out the recommended hotels in Kandy

Directions to Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth

3 – Adam’s Peak

According to the Buddhist tradition, it is a footprint of Lord Buddha. For Christians instead, it is Adam’s first step after being exiled from the Garden of Eden. Hindus believe, on the other hand, that is Lord Shiva’s footprint.

Check out the recommended hotels near Adam’s Peak

?  Adam’s Peak

4 – Yala National Park

Yala National Park

Check out the recommended hotels in Yala National Park

5 – Arugam Bay

Check out the recommended hotels in Arugam Bay

6 – Galle and his Dutch Fort

The city hosts another Unesco World Heritage , Galle Dutch Fort, a walled enclave surrounded on three sides by the ocean. Built by the Portuguese and finished by the Dutch in the 17th century, this fort really deserves his reputation!

Check out the recommended hotels in Galle

7 – Mirissa

Check out the recommended hotels in Mirissa

8 – Nuwara Eliya and Tea Plantations

Nuwara Eliya

Check out the recommended hotels in Nuwara Eliya

9 – Polonnaruwa

?  Polonnaruwa

Check out the recommended hotels in Polonnaruwa

10 – Dambulla Golden Cave Temple

This beautiful Royal Rock Temple complex sits about 160m above the road in the southern part of Dambulla. From the caves there are superb views over the surrounding countryside; Sigiriya is clearly visible some 20km distant.

?  Dambulla

Check out the recommended hotels in Dambulla

11 – Colombo

Rich history, eclectic culture and buzzy culinary scene, the Sri Lankan capital deserve to be more than just a side note to the rest of the country. Discover all the activities and tours of Colombo . Visit the National Museum, grab a tuk-tuk, go to the spectacular Gangaramaya Temple and to the Beira Lake. These are just a few things you can do to visit this beautiful and controversial city where you never get bored!

• Recommended Hotels in Colombo

We hope this list of places to visit in Sri Lanka has inspired you. Did we miss something? Please do not hesitate to leave a comment if you know more wonderful places to visit! Enjoy your Trip!

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Top 5 Must-Visit Destinations in Sri Lanka

Najla Nur Fauziyah

Petir Garda Bhwana

29 August 2024 11:41 WIB

TEMPO.CO , Jakarta -  Sri Lanka will implement visa-free travel for citizens of 35 countries starting October 1, 2024. The visa-free policy is intended to boost tourism in the island nation. 

Some of the countries that can enjoy visa-free travel to Sri Lanka for up to six months include India, the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Poland, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Thailand, Indonesia, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, France, Canada, the Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and New Zealand.

Sri Lanka is a well-rounded destination for every type of traveler, from history buffs, spiritual seekers, to nature lovers. This beautiful island nation is rich in cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and vibrant wildlife.

Taking sources from Travel and Leisure Asia and Times of India , here are five must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka:

1. Sigiriya

Sigiriya, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient rock fortress rising almost 200 meters above the surrounding plains and offers stunning views of the lush landscape below. The fortress is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes, the ‘Mirror Wall’, and the remains of an ancient palace at the summit. The climb to the summit is steep, but the views are well worth the effort. 

Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history and tradition. At its heart is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the world’s revered Buddhist sites. The temple houses a tooth relic of Buddha, which attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Kandy is also renowned for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and lush tea plantations surrounding the city. 

3. Yala National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala National Park is a must-visit. Located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, Yala is the country’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its dense leopard population. The landscape varies from coastal lagoons to dense jungles, offering a unique environment for wildlife viewing. A safari through Yala provides a fascinating opportunity to see Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity up close.

4. Galle Fort

Galle Fort is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, the 16th-century fortress is a blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions. Today, Galle Fort is a vibrant neighbourhood filled with boutique hotels, cafes, art galleries and shops. Travelers can wander through its narrow streets and get a glimpse of the island’s history, with beautifully preserved buildings and stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Ella is a town known for its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to bask in the natural splendors of Sri Lanka. Located in the central highlands, the area is famous for its Nine Bridge Arch, tea plantations, and stunning views of Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak. To reach Ella, travelers can take a train from Kandy for one of the most scenic trips in the world. The route winds through lush green hills, waterfalls, and terraced farms.

TRAVEL AND LEISURE ASIA | TIMES OF INDIA

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Sri Lanka to offer visa-free entry to citizens of 35 countries, including India, from Oct 1

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SRI LANKA / Created : Aug 23, 2024, 01:12 IST

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This six-month initiative, approved by the Sri Lankan government, is aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening international ties. The move is expected to make travel to Sri Lanka more accessible and attractive, especially for I … Read more

This six-month initiative, approved by the Sri Lankan government, is aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening international ties. The move is expected to make travel to Sri Lanka more accessible and attractive, especially for Indian tourists, who have historically been the largest group of international visitors to the island. Read less

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This six-month initiative, approved by the Sri Lankan government, is aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening international ties. The move is expected to make travel to Sri Lanka more accessible an...