best tourist places sri lanka

Must-see attractions in Sri Lanka

Polonnaruwa

Part of Parakramabahu I’s northern monastery, Gal Vihara is a group of beautiful Buddha images that probably marks the high point of Sinhalese rock…

Uda Walawe National Park

With herds of elephants, wild buffalos, sambars and spotted deer, and giant squirrels, this Sri Lankan national park is one of the nation's finest. In…

Kumana National Park

This 357-sq-km park, once known as Yala East, is much less frequently visited than its busy neighbour, Yala National Park. Consequently, it's a far less…

Jaffna Fort

Long the gatehouse of the city, the vast Jaffna fort, overlooking the Jaffna lagoon, has been fought over for centuries. Today you can wander its walls,…

Dutch Hospital

This terracotta-tiled, Dutch-era structure dates back to the early 1600s. Beautifully restored, it's now home to trendy shops, cafes and restaurants. In…

National Museum

Offering a captivating walk through Sri Lankan history, this delightful Colombo museum sprawls across a gleaming white, neo-Baroque building constructed…

Arugam Bay Beach

This long crescent of sand, partially shaded by coconut palms, is as good a reason as any to visit Arugam Bay. In season, its appeal to surfers is obvious…

Mirissa Beach

A vision of tropical bliss, Mirissa Beach boasts powdery pale sand, while its azure water is framed by an arc of coconut palms. The west side is the…

Galle Face Green

This long open space traditionally faced a narrow beach and the sea. It was originally cleared by the Dutch to give the cannons of Fort a clear line of…

Kalkudah Beach

Kalkudah Beach is the kind of fantasy that makes you want to chuck away your return air ticket and lounge forever under the palms. Good roads run inland…

Nilaveli Beach

Nilaveli's 4km stretch of sand is considered one of Sri Lanka’s best beaches and with its paradise-island remoteness, swaying palms and golden tinge to…

Uppuveli Beach

This honey-coloured crescent of sand makes a lovely spot to enjoy life under a coconut tree. Swimming is possible although there are often red flags…

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Anuradhapura

Dating back to the 1st century BC, this colossal dagoba was the ceremonial focus of the 5000-strong Abhayagiri Monastery. Originally over 100m high, it…

A short stroll north of the Royal Palace ruins, the area known as the Quadrangle is literally that – a compact group of ruins in a raised-up area bounded…

World’s End

The Hill Country

The Horton Plains plateau comes to a sudden end at World’s End, a stunning escarpment that plunges 880m. The walk here is 4km, but the trail then loops…

Buduruwagala

The beautiful, 1000-year-old, rock-cut Buddha figures of Buduruwagala are the region's biggest attraction. The gigantic standing Buddha (at 15m, it is the…

Mulkirigala Rock Temples

Tangalla & Around

Dangling off a rocky crag 16km northwest of Tangalla and nestled away among a green forest of coconut trees are the peaceful rock temples of Mulkirigala…

Kandasamy Kovil

Trincomalee

This revered temple at the summit of a rocky outcrop is one of Sri Lanka’s pancha ishwaram, five historical Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva and…

Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba

This magnificent white dagoba is guarded by a wall with a frieze of 344 elephants standing shoulder to shoulder. Apart from a few beside the western…

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a fantastic maze of waterways, lagoons and dunes that glitter like gold in the dying evening sun. This wonderland provides a home…

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress

The Ancient Cities

The steep ornamental staircase of this dramatic rock fortress is perhaps its finest feature, and once led to the Temple of the Tooth. One of the lions…

Sri Maha Bodhi

The sacred bodhi tree is central to Anuradhapura in both a spiritual and physical sense. It was grown from a cutting brought from Bodhgaya in India and is…

Cave Temples

The beautiful Royal Rock Temple complex sits about 160m above the road in the southern part of Dambulla. Five separate caves contain about 150 absolutely…

Peradeniya Botanic Gardens

These stunning gardens were once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty. Today, even commoners are allowed in to enjoy the most impressive and largest …

Adisham Monastery

This beautiful Benedictine monastery once belonged to tea planter Sir Thomas Lester Villiers. To recreate his English lifestyle, he developed some English…

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic – a tooth of the Buddha. During puja…

Elephant Transit Home

This complex is a halfway house for orphaned elephants. After rehabilitation, the elephants…

Tissa Dagoba

Tissamaharama

This large much-restored dagoba looming between Tissa town centre and the wewa is believed to have been originally built around 200 BC by Kavantissa, a…

Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains is a beautiful, stark world with excellent hikes in the shadows of Sri Lanka’s second- and third-highest mountains, Kirigalpotta (2395m) and…

Handunugoda Tea Estate

This exquisite tea plantation in the hills above Koggala offers (free) highly informative tours of the estate. You'll sample and learn how they produce…

Lankatilake Temple

This impressive 14th-century temple, mounted on a rocky bluff, is the most imposing in the region. It's divided into two halves – one half Buddhist and…

Ambasthale Dagoba

The main ceremonial stairway, lined with frangipani trees, leads to the Ambasthale Dagoba, built over the spot where Mahinda converted Devanampiya Tissa…

The spectacular terraced summit of the rock covers 1.6 hectares. This is thought to be the site chosen by King Kasyapa for his fortified capital after he…

Flag Rock, at the southernmost end of the Fort, was once a Portuguese bastion. Today it is easily the most popular place to catch a sunset. During…

This fort was built by the Dutch to compensate for deficiencies in the neighbouring rampart, but it’s so small it could only have protected a handful of…

This once-mighty fort is now home to administrative offices, and though large sections of the structure are crumbling, it's still an evocative sight. It…

Dambatenne Tea Factory

This popular tea factory was built in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton, one of the most famous figures in tea history. The tour through the works is an education…

Lankatilaka

One of the most evocative structures in Polonnaruwa, the Lankatilaka temple was built by Parakramabahu I and later restored by Vijayabahu IV. This massive…

Viharamahadevi Park

Colombo’s biggest park was originally called Victoria Park, but was renamed in the 1950s after the mother of King Dutugemunu. It’s notable for its superb…

Dutch Reformed Church

Originally built in 1640, the present building dates from 1752. Its floor is paved with gravestones from Dutch cemeteries, while other impressive features…

More destinations you need to see

Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Things to Do in Colombo

Things to Do in Galle

Where to Safari

Best Beaches

Adventurous Things to Do

Top Dishes to Try

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Bandaranaike International Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Sri Lanka

The Top 10 Destinations in Sri Lanka

Jamie Hergenrader is the Commerce Director of the Travel Group at Dotdash Meredith where she leads the content strategy of product reviews and recommendations for the company's travel brands. She joined the company in 2018 and has nearly a decade of experience writing and editing for travel and lifestyle publications.

Sri Lanka’s rich culture and history, gorgeous landscape and scenery, and plentiful wildlife-spotting opportunities are the main reasons the country tops many travelers’ bucket lists. And due to its relatively small size, many of the best attractions and destinations are within only a couple of hours of each other. In one day, if you’re on a tight schedule, you could spend the morning at one of the country’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, go on a safari in the afternoon, and then in the evening, relax and enjoy a cup of tea from one of the hill country plantations. Or, with more time, allow the opportunity for spontaneous exploration—road tripping throughout the country offers scenic views almost everywhere, and you might pull over for an elephant sighting or two along the way!

 Jamie Hergenrader

Kandy, a major city in Sri Lanka’s hill country, is one of the most popular tourist destinations and one corner of the country’s Cultural Triangle. It’s surrounded by mountains of rainforest and tea plantations and is home to a beautiful lake within the city. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred temple that houses Buddha’s tooth; wander the city’s colorful streets, and admire the architecture while sampling food from the many street vendors; walk around the lake for scenic views of the lake itself and also the colorful buildings that dot the hillsides around it; and make the quick drive outside of the city to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens to visit its orchid house and its spice garden, the latter of which will take you on an olfactory tour of the country’s native spices. 

This massive rock formation is not only a breathtaking sight to take in as you approach, jutting up from the flat lands that surround it but also a place of cultural and historical significance. The UNESCO World Heritage site was a fort and palace that dates back to the fifth century. A network of winding staircases and paths will lead you to the top of the rock if you’re game to do the 1,217-step climb. Along the way, you’ll get panoramic views of the valley around you, you’ll pass ancient paintings by monks on the rock walls, and learn about the kingdom that once called this rock home. If you plan on making the entire climb (which we highly recommend), arrive at the park at opening time—you’ll avoid the afternoon heat and beat most of the crowds.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, one of the three corners of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and the current capital city of the North Central Province, was the first ancient capital in Sri Lanka, thriving for more than 1,300 years until it was abandoned in 993. Tourists visit this UNESCO World Heritage site to explore the well-preserved ruins and significant Buddhist history. Several dagobas, distinctive dome-shaped memorials, remain in the city, one of which is said to house Buddha’s collarbone. Another important site is the Bodhi tree found in the Mahamewna Gardens —it’s the oldest known human-planted tree in the world, and it grew from the southern branch of a sacred fig tree in India, the tree under which Gautama Buddha was said to have gained enlightenment.

Polonnaruwa

Jamie Hergenrader 

The third corner of the Cultural Triangle , Polonnaruwa became the second capital after Anuradhapura was abandoned. Like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is a draw for visitors interested in touring the city’s history and ruins, including those of the royal palace and other royal spaces, the quadrangle (a raised, walled-off area of monuments and Buddha statues), and dagobas. You’ll undoubtedly spot many monkeys (toque macaques) in the area, and that population of native, endangered monkeys was featured in Disney’s nature documentary, “Monkey Kingdom.” 

Yala National Park

Yala National Park, located along the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, is the most visited national park in the country, primarily because of the chance to spot the leopards in the area—it is home to one of the largest concentrations of leopards in the world. (The land became a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and then a national park in 1938.) Although it comprises five blocks, only two of them are open to the public for safari to preserve and protect the majority of the land. Between February and July is the best time to visit; during these months, the lower water levels bring more animals out in the open searching for water. However, the park can get crowded in these peak months, and higher traffic through the park can lessen your chances of spotting one of the elusive leopards. Even so, you’ll still have the opportunity to see elephants, crocodiles, and water buffaloes.

Minneriya National Park

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Sri Lanka has plenty of safari opportunities, but Minneriya National Park is known for having the world's largest gatherings of Asian elephants. Previously an elephant sanctuary, the land was converted to a national park in 1997, and Asian elephants still freely roam the grounds in large herds. While you'll likely get a glimpse of several whenever you visit, the dry season from June to September is the best time to visit. This is when the elephants (sometimes as many as 300) will congregate around the reservoir. It might be most famous for these elephant sightings, but the park is also home to more than 170 species of birds, leopards, monkeys, and other wildlife.

Many tourists skip Colombo to set off for the country’s beautiful nature destinations, but the capital city deserves some of your time . Colombo comprises several distinct neighborhoods that showcase the old and new—from ancient temples and colonial architecture to modern skyscrapers and city parks. It’s easy (and recommended) to wander and simply take in the sights as you go. One impressive architectural sight you won’t be able to miss is the Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid (also known as the Red Mosque), a red and white mosque in Colombo’s Pettah neighborhood. Admiring it from the outside is intriguing enough, but if you want to go inside, ensure you’ve dressed appropriately; women need to cover their hair, arms, and legs. 

This fortified old city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka is another of the country’s impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the best things to do is walk along the fort’s ramparts that give you a view out to the water and inward toward the fort and city. You can also take a self-guided tour of the fort to learn about its history and architecture. Although the fort is the main attraction for visitors to the area, Galle is a prime destination for shopping as well; wander the pedestrian-friendly streets to check out the many art galleries, upscale markets, and boutique stores selling clothes, jewelry, souvenirs, and home goods.

Nuwara Eliya

Tea is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest exports, so a trip to the rolling hills of tea country is well worth your time. Nuwara Eliya boasts hundreds of acres of tea plantations and several tea production facilities you can visit to learn about the entire tea-making process, from planting to picking and steeping at home. Once you’ve had your fill of tea, be sure to explore the other gorgeous surroundings of Nuwara Eliya, such as the manicured and well-maintained Victoria Park, Lake Gregory for a day on the water, or a lakeside picnic, or the beautiful, 350-foot tall Ramboda Falls.

As one of the main beach destinations in the country, Mirissa attracts those looking for a laid-back, leisurely vacation of days lounging on the sand and nights out on the town. Among the gorgeous beaches in Mirissa, Mirissa Beach and Secret Beach are two of the best for their beauty and seclusion, but neither one gets too crowded. If you’d rather be out on the water, Mirissa is a surfer’s paradise, especially from October to April, and it’s also a popular destination for whale watching tours to spot blue whales. After a day in the sun, hit some of the casual but lively restaurants and bars, some of which are right along the beach, making them a perfect setting for a sunset cocktail. 

Best Spas in Sri Lanka

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

The Top 7 Adventurous Things to Do in Sri Lanka

17 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Rajasthan

The Top 11 Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Your Trip to Sri Lanka: The Complete Guide

Where to Safari in Sri Lanka

The Top 11 Things to Do in Galle, Sri Lanka

Where Is Sri Lanka?

Top Mexico Destinations

Weather in Sri Lanka: Climate, Seasons, and Average Temperatures

10 Top Tourist Places in Madhya Pradesh

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

19 Top Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

16 Cheapest Islands in the World to Visit

Guide to Popular Tourist Sites in India by Region

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Sri Lanka » Places to Visit

16 BEST PLACES to Visit in Sri Lanka: The Beautiful Wonders (2024)

Places to visit in Sri Lanka… now that’s a big topic! It’s not a big island, but it is a full one. There are a lot of magical wonders in Sri Lanka to visit.

Let’s get the obvious out of the way first. The beaches are the main draw for most backpackers and the top of nearly everyone’s itinerary for Sri Lanka. That’s fair; the beaches are super pretty.

I’ll be covering some of the beach towns but only the really famous ones. Sorry, but not even Sri Lanka’s best beaches really do it for me. I’m from the east coast of Australia; I’ve had my fill of pearly sands.

That’s okay! I’m about to let you in on the big secret of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit: they’re not the beaches. There are some truly beautiful hidden places in Sri Lanka both on – and especially off – its typical backpacking route.

So, it’s time we took a little journey around the island of paradise – ‘ The Pearl of the Indian Ocean ’. The 16 best places to visit in Sri Lanka (featuring only two beach towns). It’s time we suited up, hoisted our packs, filled our bellies with rice and curry, and hit the road. Yamu!

Looking for a dope spot? This is my favourite place to stay in Sri Lanka AND the best area in Sri Lanka, Ella.

The best places to visit in sri lanka: 16 adventures in the land of coconuts, kottu, and rice and curry, faq on the best places to visit in sri lanka, summing up the best places to visit in sri lanka.

Ella has some of the most peaceful mountains I’ve ever stayed amongst. Clouds with a mind of their own, an ever-changing view, and the chill vibes of mountain-folk.

• Ella rock is one pretty-ass hike and a good level for most.
• Diyaluma Falls is full-power Sri Lanka waterfall goodness.
• You’ll find my favourite hostel in Sri Lanka here.

The best places to travel to in Sri Lanka covering a massive breadth of what ‘The Resplendent Isle’ has to offer. (Some) beaches, mountains, Sri Lanka’s party scene, ancient kingdoms, and villages hidden in jungle mists: a proverbial paradise with a South Asian twist!

I covered the scope of the island so you don’t have to! Wait, no, that’s wrong… So you can too! Yeah, that’s better.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Tomorrowland Hostel – Wait, what the shit, dude?

Yeah, I’ve made no secret of my affection for this place. I plugged the hell outta them in my ‘Backpacking Sri Lanka Travel Guide’ and pretty much anywhere else I could.

So, you can look at this as one of two ways: either they’re secretly paying me off with hashish under the table, or I really just love this place that much. I’m of the opinion that travellers need a home more than anyone.

• Why it’s awesome: Take your pick: the view is jaw-droppingly stunning, they serve up the best feeds I’ve found in Sri Lanka, and the tunes are always tight! Tomorrowland ( no affiliation with the trashy festival) is not a party hostel but it attracts good people. There’s a reason why in 3 months of travelling Sri Lanka, I spent 6-7 weeks collectively there. The boys behind the scenes are simply some of the best.
• What to do there: Slow down, man. Watch the clouds and the sky, read a book, spin some poi, meditate on your inevitable and untimely demise: it’s all good! Tomorrowland is outta Ella but is still a stones throw away from some real highlights of Sri Lanka and, at the end of the day, when you just feel like resting somewhere that feels like home, you’ve got one to go back to. And spend some time with Beauty. She is the queen of the palace after all.

An Unfortunate Disclaimer and Update

I have sad news. My absolute favourite place to stay in Sri Lanka (and one of the most wonderful, homey, hippy-dirtbag sticky places I’ve ever found in my travels),  Tomorrowland Hostel , has changed management following some really disgusting and shady behaviour by the new management.

Unfortunately, the beautiful human that made that place a home has moved on and the person running the show now does not embody the spirit of Tomorrowland in the slightest. That’s as much as I’m saying.

If you still choose to stay at Tomorrowland while travelling Sri Lanka, you’ll probably still have an awesome time. Beauty is still the best dog I’ve ever met, the kittens are the bestest, and the hostel still attracts good travellers. But it isn’t what it once was and it’s no longer one of my sticky places – that breaks my heart.

I’m leaving it recommended in all the Sri Lanka content I wrote as a testament to its memory and as an honest reflection of the journey I had in Sri Lanka; truly, it was special. So thank you to Menno for the space he created, thank you to the boys there that made it a home, and thank you to everyone I met in my time there. Tomorrowland Hostel did a lot of good for a lot of people.

Peace, blessings, and hippy shit be upon you. Keep on psy-ing in the free world. | Photo:  @themanwiththetinyguitar

#2 – The Kandy to Ella Train – I suppose this is more of a ‘thing to do’ in Sri Lanka…

• The South Asian public transport yummies!
• Majestic sweeping vistas.
• Mega-cheap.

To be honest, I’m assuming you’ve already heard of the Kandy to Ella train purely for how famous it is. It’s definitely a must-do for anyone visiting Sri Lanka and it’s definitely-definitely something to be experienced for anyone who is unused to the public transport in this little pocket of the globe.

• Why it’s awesome: There are no damn rules! You feel like walking on the train tracks… Why not? Want to hang out the door? That’s definitely ok-ok! The snack-men keep on coming which means you’re basically sampling Sri Lanka’s scrumptious street food while travelling in serious style. The views of Sri Lanka’s hill country are simply legendary and, chances are, you’ll make some friends along the way.
• What to do there: I mean, let’s be honest, most people have obtaining the perfect snapshot for their ‘gram on the mind when they board. But, really, it’s one of the wonders of Sri Lanka. Feel the breeze and the fresh mountain air on your face as you watch the swell of tea plantations drift by.

Why, you’re right! I did write a Kandy to Ella train travel guide, so I’d definitely suggest having a read if you’re wondering how to catch Sri Lanka’s finest train ride. Option two is to book through Bookaway ; they’ll nab you a reserved seat. They’re a great choice for booking public transport in Sri Lanka however, ultimately, I’m always gonna tell you to ride local.

It’s where the best adventures are.

#3 – Arugam Bay – The place to visit in Sri Lanka for backpacker beach vibes.

• Nothin’ but swell.
• Incredible food!
• Joints aplenty.

This is numero uno of the beach towns we’re talking about, and it’s also number one on most people’s east coast Sri Lanka itinerary. The traveller vibe is very… Southeast Asia . I’ll say that and leave it at that; I’ve run my mouth off enough about the backpacker culture in Sri Lanka.

• Why it’s awesome: If the vibe you’re seeking is messy parties (house and techno, friends), cute butts, and an endless supply of fruit-print shirts and substances, then Arugam Bay is one of the top places to go in Sri Lanka. Yeah, look, I’m not gonna pretend it’s my vibe, but I am happy to report that the food is goddamn incredible! Cheap prices for being in the bubble and heaps of local joints (heh). Mama’s Restaurant still stands as one of my favourite places to eat in Sri Lanka.
• What to do there: Surfing, joints, parties, and then sleeping off the surfing, joints, and parties in hammocks. That about sums it up. The beaches aren’t as pretty as on Sri Lanka’s south coast but there are so many different breaks around that it’s rare to have a day without finding some good waves.

And, hey, listen! I wrote you a surfing in Sri Lanka guide (yes you, just you – because your butt is still my favourite butt). That’s where I’ve done most of my breaking down of Sri Lanka’s beaches with a special focus on Arugam because… well, mainly because of the food. Not gonna lie; it was mainly the munchies that kept me there.

#4 – Sigiriya – One of my top 5 places to visit in Sri Lanka.

• One giant kickass rock.
• Yay, slacklines!
• Mosquitoes –  fair warning.

Sigiriya is a super-popular destination in Sri Lanka and with good cause – there’s a giant rock that domineers the skyline over the town and it’s bloody magnificent! This is one of the top attractions on Sri Lanka’s tourist trail but it’s also crazy popular with the locals given it’s status as an extremely sacred site. It reminds me of a lot of the tourist spots in India in that regard: a lovely mix of local and traveller vibes.

• Why it’s awesome: I mean, again, did I mention the rock? Lion’s Rock with the ancient rock fortress, Sigiriya, standing guard at the top. It really is an architectural marvel and even if the historical shizz-bizz isn’t your thang-dang, it’s still gonna leave you saying “That’s one sexy-ass rock” . If the historical shizzle-nizzle is your thing, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla are an easy day trip from Sigirya. They’re two more cultural travel places to visit in Sri Lanka.
• What to do there: There’s two options for experiencing Lion’s Rock: Number one is climbing Lion’s Rock itself but it’s pricey – 4500 rups ($25ish). The upshot is that you’ll see the fortress but the downside is that it’s busy and the climb is less of a ‘hike in Sri Lanka’ and more of a ‘long flight of stairs’ in Sri Lanka. Option number two is to climb the nearby Pidurangala Rock for 500 rups. That way, you’ll actually be able to see Lion’s Rock: sunrise is nice, sunset is very nice, and the walk, though short, actually feels like a walk. Whatever you choose, when all is said and done, you can go to Rastarant in town for a fresh juice and to walk the slackline!

#5 – Rent a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka – The best way to travel in Sri Lanka.

• Total freedom.
• You’re driving a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka.
• You’re driving a goddamn tuk tuk in Sri Lanka!

Again, this is more of a ‘thing to do’ in Sri Lanka but… well… you’re driving a goddamn tuk tuk in Sri Lanka! If you can’t see the relevance here, then I pity the foo’! I hooked up with a couple (not like that, you weirdo) who had rented one and, my God, it was a spectacular journey.

• Why it’s awesome: Dude, think of the adventure! Is there a cool rock on the horizon? Drive to the rock! Is someone hitchhiking? Pick that sucker up ( “500 rupees – local price, machan” ). Between your rental fees and the fuel costs it’s definitely gonna run you more than Sri Lanka’s public transport. If you’re travelling Sri Lanka on a budget, this may not be the best choice for you. For everyone else… you’re driving a goddamn tuk tuk in Sri Lanka!
• What to do there: Anything you damn well please: you’ve got a three-wheeled warhorse at your disposal! Use your new companion to travel to any of these places to visit in Sri Lanka or go find your own when you’re out between the bubbles.

Here’s the link for the tuk tuk rental company that my companions (love you, guys) used. They’re legends and run the whole operation real tight. Scope the site out and, if it’s your cup of Sri Lankan milk tea , use the code brokebackpacker at the check out for a sexy-tight discount!

#6 – Mannar Island – Definitely an uncommon place to visit in Sri Lanka.

• Off the tourist trail.
• A place of ancient legend.
• Just kinda interesting.

Well, now you have a sweet ride, so why not go somewhere off Sri Lanka’s backpacking route? No one bloody-well goes to Mannar Island – seriously! In 3 months of being in Sri Lanka, I didn’t meet a single backpacker who’d been there and very, very few who knew of it.

Did I go there? Nope! I dicked it up. I didn’t have enough time; life of a working traveller , I suppose.

That’s why I reckon you should go there… if the old legends of Sri Lanka tingle your dingles.

• Why it’s awesome: Mannar Island is the home of Adam’s Bridge (or Rama Setu ) and also one of the oldest legends – and possibly most important – in Sri Lanka. The legend comes from the major Sanskrit epic of ancient India, Ramayana , and tells the tale of Rama (a chill dude who kicks ass and chews bubblegum) who builds a bridge of rocks to Sri Lanka with the aid of an army of monkey-men. Man, look, the Sanskrit legends are sick. They’re basically the OG Dragon Ball Z!
• What to do there: You can hit the beach or check out the local vibe (it’s cool heading out this far) but you’re mainly going to see Adam’s Bridge. It’s the remaining natural structure of what was once potentially a land-bridge to India. Scientists can’t seem to agree on what formed it but, generally, they do concur that it wasn’t due to the unionisation of an army of monkey-men.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Ella (Area) – One of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.

• Those mountains, man.
• Waterfalls up the wazoo!
• Mountain-folk.

Yeah, so I already told you about my favourite place to stay in Ella but I didn’t actually tell you about Ella. It’s so gorgeous, man. Sri Lankan mountains have good vibes and so do the mountain-folk.

The town of Ella itself is a bit crap – an over-capacity little tourist bubble – but everything around it is so, so yum. That’s why I say to stay outside of Ella. I already mentioned Tomorrowland but there are plenty of other great hostels in Ella . There are some other fancier accommodations too if you’re one of those cute travelling couples that like to bang it out in hotels before heading out for the day.

• Why it’s awesome: It’s all about that natural splendour. Shades of green rise and fall between the hills all the while the magical (and truly unique) clouds play amongst the plantations. There’s good smoke around too! What to do there: There are some hikes though nothing truly murderous (for the proper hiking places in Sri Lanka, see the next section). There are some fine examples of the delicious waterfalls in Sri Lanka including it’s second-highest (which is also free unlike the highest). Honestly, I’d take a mountain over a beach any day and this place to visit in Sri Lanka (and live) gives me nothing but contentment. If you’re the same, you’ll find your people.

Once again, check out the Kandy to Ella travel guide to see me go more in-depth.

#8 – The Knuckles Mountain Range – One of the true wonders of Sri Lanka.

• The best place for hiking in Sri Lanka.
• More scrumptious mountains.
• Now we’re adventuring!

Oh boy, oh yum. The Knuckles Range is easily one of the best places to travel to in Sri Lanka.

You’ll find remote villages, misty peaks wrangled by jungles, waterfalls (duh), and some of the still hidden places in Sri Lanka. The thing about the mountains in Sri Lanka is that they’re not the kind I want to climb (ok, maybe a bit). They’re the kind I want to sit beneath and gaze at.

That’s special.

• Why it’s awesome: Dude, the mountains! Go see some seriously pretty skies, eat with the locals, and escape the electric world for a bit. What to do there: Without a doubt, hiking is easily the main draw there and you’ll be meeting more local tourists than foreign ones. Otherwise, it’s a place to go in Sri Lanka for those sweet tingly-dingly adventure vibes.

There are hikes in the Knuckles Mountain Range you can do sans-guide and many I wouldn’t recommend doing without one. Scope out your own guide or go see Sura at Hipsters Hideout Lounge in Kandy (a good base for the Knuckles). He’s a mate and sorts out tour packages – easy!

#9 – Meemure Village – Now we’re talking hidden places to visit in Sri Lanka!

• Sri Lanka’s most remote village.
• Overseen by Sri Lanka’s most piercing peak!
• Journey time.

Nestled deep in a valley of the Knuckles Range lies Meemure village. It’s a peaceful place. It is still, without a doubt, a village (not like those bloody Japan “villages” ).

If you’re truly seeking to burst the bubble, it’s the best place to visit in Sri Lanka. Meemure is still mighty popular with local tourists (avoid the weekends), but you’re far out of the smoothie bowl territory here.

• Why it’s awesome: A tranquil village (outside of morning and evening prayer sessions) nestled deep in the mists of the jungle. There’s not much else to say really; either this is shaggin’ your wagon or it’s not.
• What to do there: If you’re there with some communication capabilities – either through a guide or because you actually learned Sinhala (you absolute legend) – then you’ll have the opportunity to learn some truly interesting stuff about old Sri Lankan life and world-view. Otherwise, you’re looking at hiking to see some truly beautiful places in Sri Lanka to pleasure your eyeballs: softly and lovingly.

Unlike Mannar Island, this is an adventure I did make the time for. I even wrote an eyeball-pleasuring guide for getting to Meemure vilage and exploring the Knuckles Mountain Range.

#10 – Mirissa and the South Beaches – Sri Lanka’s best beaches but perhaps not the best places to visit.

Yep, that about sums it up.

Pathological sarcastic tendencies used to protect my hidden vulnerability issues aside… they’re extremely pretty beaches! Cleaner and nicer than the ones on Sri Lanka’s east coast.

I get mixed reports from travellers on the south coast and, based on my own experience, it’s highly dependent on where you go. I didn’t like it: it was too touristy. The touts and tuk-tuk drivers were just more relentless and stoney Russian-holidayer eyes wig me out wayyy harder than the trademark South Asia stare.

Mirissa is your main hub for backpacker life. The further east you go, the quieter and more local the beaches become, and the further west you head, the more Russian they become.

It’s also worth noting that you’re visiting one of Sri Lanka’s top holiday destinations. It’s not predominantly backpackers like the east coast; expect families, children, and higher prices.

• Why it’s awesome: The dope thing about the south coast of Sri Lanka is that there are sections that get good surf nearly all-year-round (yep, the south coast is in the surfing guide too). If the goal is surfing in Sri Lanka, it’s definitely the place to head any time of year. Even during the monsoon, provided you don’t care about the rain. Which, if you’re chasing proper swell, you proabably don’t. You eat monsoons for breakfast.
• What to do there: Beach shit, man. Surfing, chilling, surfing, talking about how you should do some yoga, more chilling, and then some more surfing! You’ll also find more of Sri Lanka’s party scene down that way.

Pssst! Did you know that Sri Lanka is home to the best retreats in the world? Check out our  Best Yoga Retreats in Sri Lanka  and Best Meditation Retreats in Sri Lanka guides for more info! ?

#11 – Galle and the Fort – A cool place to stay in Sri Lanka for a night.

• Really different architecture.
• A really different vibe.
• Definitely pretty.

Yeah, just a night. That’s all I was feeling. For the record, I stayed in Galle Fort – the old town.

Originally a Portuguese and then Dutch fortification, being in the old town feels very much like being in a Sri Lankan variant of a European village. It’s a good place to go if you’re missing cafe culture and the rice and curry ain’t doing it for you anymore. (What’s wrong with you!) However, I felt ready to move on pretty quick: the prices are high and the feeling of both the tourists and the locals is very wealthy. (Not that that’s a bad thing. It’s just not my scene.)

• Why it’s awesome: It is mega-pretty. Like, it’s just a cool place to visit and stroll around on a trip to Sri Lanka. I’d suggest waking up early and going for a wander in the dawning sun before the tuk-tuk mafia have begun their day’s hustle.
• What to do there: Other than stroll around, not a whole heap. Check out the lighthouse and the old-school Volkswagens, get a fancy-pants meal if that’s your jam, and move on when you’re ready. If you’re missing the feeling of being in Sri Lanka, take a few steps outside the fort and you’ll find the chaos of the city again.

#12 – Sri Maha Bodhi – Another cultural highlight in Sri Lanka.

• An ancient tree.
• More ancient tales.
• Like, a crazy important sacred site.

So, how does the oldest living human-planted tree in the world sound? Who planted it? One of the motherfucking tree-hugging ancient kings of Sri Lanka himself! Sri Maha Bodhi was planted from a cutting of the tree that Buddha gained enlightenment under.

The final level-up. Dude… that’s sick.

• Why it’s awesome: Did you miss the part about the ancient god-tree where sages smash the final boss of our suffering and impermanence? You’re in the heart of Anuradhapura now surrounded by some of Sri Lanka’s oldest temples so this is definitely a place to visit in Sri Lanka for those who are all about that cultural shizz-bizz.
• What to do there: Meditate…? Yeah, you can’t actually go right up to the tree (what I would give to hug that sucker) but you can go close! Or, if you prefer your meditation sessions without being stared at by throngs of Sinhalese devotees, you can go find a quieter spot. You’re in the heart of the temple complex so you’ll be able to find a lot of the old-world points of interest in Sri Lanka. Maha Viharaya , Jetavana , and Abhayagiri are the three big ones to hit up.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – Jaffna – An uncommon place to visit in Sri Lanka off most backpacking itineraries.

• You’re in the war-strangled north.
• And predominantly Tamil territory.
• Apparently, the ganja is better…

There’s no way I can sum up Sri Lanka’s history here but it’s definitely worth learning about. That shit is super important.

Suffice to say, though Sri Lanka is predominantly home to Buddhist Sinhalese people with the other sub-group being the Tamils (who are mostly Hindu and Muslim). There are a helluva lot less Tamil people since the war, but Jaffna is home to one of the largest Tamil populations still on the island. It’s also a stark reminder of Sri Lanka’s darkness: it hasn’t always been tech-house and elephant tattoos.

• Why it’s awesome: The vibe is much closer to South Indian than Sri Lankan. South Indian spices in your rice and curry, red-ochre temples reminiscent of Hampi, and a bit less smiley (but the head wobbles just keep on coming). As you’ve gathered, it’s more cultural and historical points of interest in Sri Lanka, but the beautiful beaches stretch up this far too.
• What to do there: There are islands worth visiting in Jaffna just off the peninsula; Nainvatu Island has Nagadeepa Purana Vihara – another of Sri Lanka’s beautiful temples. For other good day trips from Jaffna, you can check out Kankesanthurai Beach and Keerimalai Pond – and old-style natural swimming pool – for some swimming with local vibes.

#14 – Yala National Park – For where to see leopards in Sri Lanka… maybe.

• The most famous national park in Sri Lanka.
• Beasties and safaris aplenty.
• One of the pricier choices of parks.

Ahhh, here’s the deal. This isn’t a ‘go out and explore’ variant of a national park. It’s a ‘pay a lot to enter the park and then pay more for a safari’ thing, and honestly, I just can’t get behind safaris.

I know this falls in a more ambiguous area than riding the elephants (don’t) and throngs of tourists posing with the turtles (please don’t) but my gut just doesn’t feel it. Maybe elsewhere in the world it’s different, but I don’t trust the safaris in Sri Lanka . I’ve observed enough of the culture and tourism in Sri Lanka regarding animals that I don’t back it. Gotta trust your gut.

But, putting aside cognitive dissonance, free will in a deterministic universe, and “maybe we’re all just stuck in a cave anyway” yum-jum, I still got a job to do.

• Why it’s awesome: The park is a beautiful place to visit in Sri Lanka, indeed, and different to many I’ve seen. Grassy plains and scrubby lowland lagoons roamed by elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, and monkeys. Yep, it’s a place to see leopards in Sri Lanka, but they’re still crazy rare.
• What to do there: There are places to stay in Yala and some boutique hotels too. You can go on a safari, but exploring is a no-go. There are tonnes of safaris and traffic is busy… see what I mean?

Right, below I’m leaving a link to book a safari in Sri Lanka. I considered not dropping it from an ethical standpoint but I also believe people get to choose their own actions in an inconsequential universe. Ooph , there’s that cognitive dissonance again.

Plus, if you wanna go, you’re gonna go. You do you, man – still my ultimate creed.

However, keep in mind that the ethics of the wildlife tourism industry  is a quagmire littered with abuse and cruelty. Just think about it.

An Ethically-Sound Alternative to a Sri Lankan Safari: Millennium Elephant Foundation

That’s right – you can get up-close-and-personal with some of the most majestic beasts in Sri Lanka and not even feel a drop of moral anxiety about it!  Millennium Elephant Foundation is  ethical elephant tourism.

These guys don’t even let you ride the elephants. They used to let you ride them bareback, but now they’ve exchanged that program for their much more whimsical and respectable  Elephant Walk Experience . It’s kinda like a first date: you get to hang out, go for a romantic stroll with your partner elephant, and even help them bathe at the end if you’re lucky. ?

Was the first date divine? Then it’s time to commit because the  Elephant Foundation accepts volunteers too!  Not only will you get to hang out, care for, and bathe with the lovelies, but you’ll help out around the property too with farming, veterinary work, and teaching!

Honestly, there’s zero reason not to drop the cash you were going to spend on booking a safari on this instead. It’s  1000 times more  of an authentic experience,  1000 times less  morally reprehensible, and  100,000 times better  than sitting in a jeep staring slackjawed at wild animals that really just wish you’d piss off…

#15 – Kandy – A place to visit in Sri Lanka with a disclaimer.

• Cheap food!
• I think it’s pretty.

Here’s the disclaimer: most backpackers I’ve talked to were pretty disinterested in this destination in Sri Lanka. It’s kind of a place you have to travel to in Sri Lanka because for the famous train ride (yep, Kandy is in the guide too), and most reports range from “na…” to “meh…” .

But I like Kandy so fuck ya!

• Why it’s awesome: I just like it! There’s lots of cheap local food around – it’s a bubble-less city. I like the hills that surround the town and the way houses and temples jut above the treeline. ( Staying up in Kandy’s hills is super nice). Honestly, it’s kind of a weird comparison, but it kinda feels like an Asian Wellington… architecturally speaking.
• What to do there: Well, there’s definitely things to do in Kandy but nothing so spectacular that it feels worth a mention. Ooh, I know. Go get a burger (or wrap) from Licenced to Grill. They aren’t the best burgers I had in Sri Lanka, but they were the cheapest!

Ultimately, I still think it’s a much nicer alternative to staying Colombo . Did you notice how it’s not on this list?

#16 – Adam’s Peak – Arguably Sri Lanka’s holiest place to visit.

• Sri Lanka’s most sacred peak.
• A destination in Sri Lanka for tourists and pilgrims alike.
• Home to the  sri pada  (sacred footprint) formation.

I like ending lists on sexy mountains and this one is a real stunner! This is a day hike in Sri Lanka to properly test your mettle if only because you’ll be scaling 5,500 steps. And the view at the top? Oh sweet darling mountains, you do me wonders.

Adam’s Peak’s climbing season starts on the full moon in December and runs through until May. That said, climbing it outside of season is golden; the shoulder before December is the sweet spot. During peak season, the climb represents gridlock in Colombo.

• Why it’s awesome: Once you’re at the top, you’ll understand; it’s a truly unique place to visit in Sri Lanka. The clouds in Sri Lanka’s hill country really possess a breath of their own and, at the summit of Adams peak, you’re above them.
• What to do there: …Climb it? Outside pilgrim’s season you won’t be able to enter the temple and see the foot print but who cares… Take your shoes off and make your own!

Outside peak season, the lanterns won’t be lit so you’ll need a headlamp for climbing the peak for sunrise or sunset (which is definitely the time to climb). Luckily, there are shops along the way that sell them! (But you really should be travelling with one in your gear setup regardless.) That’s it: the 16 best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Go climb a glorious mountain and watch the sky!

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Get insured before hitting up all the places to visit in Sri Lanka!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I met a dude that messed up his leg sticking it out the door of the train. I met a dude that messed his face up doing I-don’t-remember-what (something dumb). There was even this chick that choked on her kottu!

That last one was a hideous lie. Kottu is the best and would never harm a soul. All in all,  Sri Lanka is pretty damn safe  but, all the same,  you really should consider getting insured!

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Sri Lanka

What should I not miss in Sri Lanka?

No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without visiting Sigiriya and climbling to the fortress at the top. It is one of the most historical and important places to visit in Sri Lanka.

What is the most beautiful place to visit in Sri Lanka?

Yala National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka and where you can maybe spot a leopard on a safari. If you don’t, it’s still a stunning place to see elephants and other wild animals.

Is Sri Lanka a safe place to visit?

Yes, Sri Lanka is generally safe place to visit, but you should be cautious when visiting the North as it is historically a politically unstable area.

Is Sri Lanka a good place to visit for a honeymoon?

Yes, absolutely! There are many nice hotels and the people there are so welcoming and will go out of their way to make sure you have a great time. Also, there’s a ton of unique and exciting things to do. It will be a memorable experience for a honeymoon.

Oath! That’s it: all my best places to visit in Sri Lanka. Carefully collected over the course of 3 months! Let me tell you, a couple months ago this list would have looked lot different… except Tomorrowland. That was always number one: it’s the only hippie place I’ve found in Sri Lanka.

Dude, I love Sri Lanka! It took a while for the real click to come but now it has and I can say: it’s a graceful little island. Grace done South Asia style, of course.

I dig the food, I dig the people, I don’t dig the price of smoke, but I do dig the smoke. Give me a spicy kottu and ultra-sweet, ultra-milky tea any day and I’ll give you a doofy-ass grin.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably considering travelling to all the places in Sri Lanka to visit… or at least some of them. Maybe you’re crafting your ultimate itinerary for Sri Lanka. It doesn’t matter; whatever you’re doing – do it! Sri Lanka is dope!

What can I say? It wallops my scallops.

Ziggy Samuels

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best places in Sri Lanka according to an expert

By James Jayasundera

Listen and subscribe to The Escape Routes podcast iTunes , Spotify or download on Android to hear features director Fiona Kerr on Sri Lanka, the Indian Ocean island that is continually shifting.

The founder of tailor-made tour specialists Ampersand Travel shares his wealth of experience and gives us his guide to Sri Lanka . He tells us the dishes to order in Colombo, leads us to the most classic of hotels in Galle and lets us know where to find the best surf spot in the country.

Your favourite classic hotel?

‘ Amangalla – formerly the New Oriental Hotel – in Galle, Sri Lanka . For me, authenticity is when local life is carrying on in its usual way around you, and this Dutch-colonial hotel in the historic UNESCO-protected old town is a peaceful sanctuary right amid the buzz of the Sri Lankan community. Step outside and see all the schoolchildren in their immaculate white uniforms, with perfectly plaited or combed hair, being dropped off or collected by bike or tuk-tuk, then retreat inside to the hotel’s tropical walled gardens and huge inviting pool.’

A great little find away from the crowds?

‘When I am in Sri Lanka and need to escape the crowds, I head to Bentota to stay at Rock Villa . My family have been coming here since before I was born and my first memories of bathing in the sea were here. I remember when it was a private house and belonged to friends of mine. It has now been changed into the most beautiful boutique hotel. The food is some of the best I have had, especially the breakfasts. The gardens are huge, leading straight down to the beach which is invariably deserted. There are train rails running through the bottom of the garden and you need to step over them to get to the sea. For me this adds hugely to the experience. The trains do not come by very often and when they do it’s a real event. The railway is also a blessing in disguise as developers were not able to take over that stretch of coastline, which is why it still looks much the same as it did more than 40 years ago when I was a child.’

Your loveliest travel experience?

‘My first love was Sri Lanka, and four decades later it still is. I jokingly refer to it as a fruity beauty. It is spectacular and incredibly fertile and bountiful. It offers such a vast diversity of landscapes and experiences, plus its people are incredibly hospitable and fun-loving. Sri Lankan food is now also receiving the recognition it deserves. One place that is really lovely is Ulpotha , which is a yoga eco-retreat where you stay in open mud huts. Despite its simplicity, every detail has been carefully considered and it has truly captured the essence of luxury – it’s one of my favourite places on earth. A second would be Thotalagala, a stunning tea planter’s bungalow that has some of the best views in Sri Lanka. Adjoining the estate is Dambatenne, possibly the most famous estate in all of Sri Lanka. Dambatenne is one of the only estates in the world that Sir Thomas Lipton planted himself. The term “Ceylon tea” was coined and Lipton Tea was founded here, which sold its first pound of leaves from the grounds of the factory that still stands today.'

Your holiday look?

‘In Sri Lanka it’s a silk sarong. The weather on the coast there is so warm that clothes are superfluous – the only reason one needs them is to protect one’s modesty. After a day on the beach there is nothing more comfortable to wear. My favourite one is made of black and olive-green silk, which I bought at Barefoot in Colombo.’

The items always in your holiday wardrobe?

‘I have a bright-orange cashmere beanie, which I roll down over my eyes when I want to sleep on a plane. I used to have blue ones, but I would always lose them as most planes have blue seats and carpets and I would fail to spot it when disembarking. My other must-haves include a large multipurpose wool shawl from India that I use as a blanket, pillow, turban, shawl or to wrap precious or fragile finds. Also swimming trunks – I always have a pair in my bag as there is nothing more irritating than ending up on a beautiful beach or by a stunning pool and not being able to swim as you don’t have your bathers.’

Your wash-bag essentials?

‘I push myself very hard when I travel so I always carry sachets of rehydration salts with electrolytes – if it’s really hot and you’re sweating buckets and beginning to feel a little rough, all you need to do is take one and it will put a spring in your step in a matter of minutes. The second would be Eight Hour Cream by Elizabeth Arden – it is an absolute miracle product and it amuses me that people might think it’s a bit girlie. Little do they know that it is a firm favourite with some of the world’s most hardcore and respected expedition leaders, especially for trips to the South Pole and up Everest. The third thing would be sleeping pills – I have some really good ones. I take a lot of long-haul flights and all I need to do is pop half just after take-off and I wake up eight hours later. “Beam me up Scotty!” It’s almost like being teleported – it makes long flights painless and allows me always to hit the ground running.’

If you could have one feast right now?

‘I’d go to The Gallery Café in Colombo , the restaurant in the former studio of the hugely influential architect Geoffrey Bawa. It’s been around for more than two decades and has always been fun, creative and buzzy. I’d start with a chilli-tamarind Margarita (fearsomely moreish), then continue with gazpacho (the best I’ve ever had), followed by either a black-pork curry and rice with all the trimmings or a pan-fried seer with coconut risotto and curried apple sauce. Pudding would be Chocolate Nemesis – a lightly baked mousse with pecans and whipped cream. The owner Shanth Fernando (Sri Lanka’s Terence Conran) is there most days, and that’s probably why it’s consistently recognised as the best restaurant in Sri Lanka’s capital.’

Your favourite place in the whole world?

‘This might be surprising as my favourite country is Sri Lanka, but my top destination is Franschhoek in South Africa , in the heart of the Winelands close to Cape Town . It has the best sunsets I’ve ever seen and fynbos-covered mountain sides that you can wander around and get completely lost in. It reminds me of all the things I cherished most while growing up. The koppies (small rocky hills) take me back to the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia ; the vegetation and distant views recall the Sigiriya in north-central Sri Lanka; and when it’s stormy and the clouds rest on top of the mountains I think of the Scottish Highlands which I would escape to for the weekends while at university.’

The best shop?

‘Paradise Road is a wonderful homeware store in Colombo created by my friend Shanth Fernando. The shop is a feast for the eyes, located in a beautiful old mansion overlooking the town hall. There is a joyous sense of whimsy, and most objects bring a smile to your face, be they doorstops, table mats, tablecloths or vases. I drink a lot of tea and have been on the lookout for the perfect mug for the past 25 years. I finally found mine here – it is a fine white-china mug, a little larger than average and beautifully rounded so that it feels most pleasant and comforting when you hold it with two hands. I use these mugs every day and they are always a pleasure to drink from.’

A song that reminds you of holidays?

‘“Last Night a DJ Saved My Life” by Indeep – two summers ago, quite by accident, I was playing this on a loop at Hideaway in Arugam Bay, a laidback and perfectly run little gem with the most delicious food in one of Sri Lanka’s best-known surfing spots. I was so relaxed and content I just let it keep on playing, getting more and more into it each time I heard it. I suddenly realised that I could not be happier. It is always bittersweet when this moment of realisation happens, as one recognises that it is fleeting and the acknowledgement of it somehow brings it to an end, but on the flipside I can still remember it perfectly. It may have only lasted a few moments but it made the whole holiday worthwhile.’

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Alex Postman

A place you fell in love?

‘Shortly after my partner and I first met he joined me on a very intense research trip to Sri Lanka. I had nine days in which I needed to inspect about 60 hotels. On the rare occasion that I have done such trips with a friend or partner, they normally choose to sit in the lobby while I inspect the property, but he accompanied me on every visit, examining and exploring things in as much detail as me, or more. We would then chat about the pros and cons of each hotel for hours. When we reached Kahanda Kanda, a hotel that is a stone’s throw from Galle , we were really looking forward to a walk through the tea plantation that afternoon. When the time came, it started to rain. He thought we would have to cancel or postpone, but instead, I put on my swimming trunks and suggested he do the same. It never crossed his mind that this was an option as the rain in the tropics is warm, unlike in Europe . It was incredibly romantic and it was the moment that we realised that we were in love.’

An organisation that’s making the world a better place?

‘I love sharks and get incredibly distressed when I read about the needless and cruel massacre for their fins. Globally, fewer than 100 humans get attacked by sharks a year, and of those cases only four or five are fatal. It is estimated that humans kill more than a hundred million sharks a year. As they’re an apex predator, this has messed up ecosystems. I really admire Andy and Marit Miners, who founded Misool eco resort in Raja Ampat, Indonesia . In 2005, and with the help of local communities, Misool started building a sea reserve that now protects 300,000 acres of the world's richest reefs. ​​In October 2010, the team successfully petitioned the regional government to protect sharks and rays across the entire one million acres of Raja Ampat. Rampant shark-finning for shark-fin soup and unchecked destructive fishing had been destroying some of the most important and biodiverse reefs on earth. Comparing data from 2007 and 2013, on average the biomass increased by 250 per cent over just those six years – in some key sites, recovery surpassed 600 per cent. Their work is truly inspirational.’

Like this? Now read:

This Sri Lankan beach town is the latest nomad hotspot

24 secret places where you can get away from the crowds

30 of the world's smartest classic hotels

10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the country that has it all: jungle-covered mountains, picture-perfect beaches, delicious food, warm people, and rolling tea plantations. Plus, it’s home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife in Asia ! Cross the country by train, taking in the diversity of the landscapes, and fall in love with one of our favorite countries. Enjoy discovering the 10 best places to visit in Sri Lanka with this complete travel guide.

1. Visit the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella

Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic places to visit in the whole of Sri Lanka . This mammoth bridge is located just outside the pretty town of Ella , deep among the luscious jungle, green tea plantations, and bamboo forest.

Hotels in Ella 😴

At a massive 25 meters high and 91 meters long, the bridge is an example of incredible architecture and engineering; it has stood without steel support for over 100 years!

Nothing quite beats walking through the jungle and seeing the beautiful stone arches of the bridge appear through the mist. Hang around, and you might be lucky enough to see the famous train crossing the tracks on its way to Ella.

Read: Nine-Arch Bridge in Ella

2. Hike to the Top of Diyaluma Falls

Experience nature’s very own playground at Diyaluma waterfall ! It’s the 2nd highest waterfall in the country and one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka .

This incredible slice of nature is located around 40 km from Ella , so it’s a great day trip on your vacation. Ask your tuk-tuk driver to take you to the bottom of the trail. From here, you can follow the path for around 2 hours from the waterfall’s base to the top.

Read: Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka

Once you reach the summit, you’ll see the three natural infinity pools perched on the edge of the cliff. Swim in the pools, chill on the rocks, and enjoy the extraordinary views as you gaze 220 meters below. You’ll feel as if you’re on top of the world!

Here are all your hotel options in Ella.

Tip: Please note that there are no safety barriers at the falls, so be careful when swimming close to the cliff edge.

3. Southern Beaches: Swings & Palm Trees

Imagine swinging in the shade of palm trees with a coconut in hand and the sea breeze in your hair; the Sri Lankan southern beaches have become well-known for just this!

Several beaches have Instagram-famous swings, popular among travelers who want to live the beach vacation dream. 

Travel photography tips to improve your Instagram!

Dalawella Beach Swing

One that is particularly famous is the swing at Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna. It sits high up in the curve of a bending palm tree right in front of Dream Cabana, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka! Seeing the swing at sunset is spectacular as you swing through the sky, watching the colors of the sun change.

Here are all your hotel options in Unawatuna.

These days, it’s likely you’ll have to pay a small fee to use the swing (this is for maintenance and upkeep). Make sure to also stop for a chat with the locals in the nearby huts and bars, enjoying the vibes of this beautiful spot.

Read: Things to do in Unawatuna

Dikwella Beach Swing

If you’re not planning on heading to Dalawella Beach, you’ll find a second palm tree swing located in Dikwella , which is also on the south coast of Sri Lanka . Unlike Dalawella, this is a seated swing, so it’s a bit easier to sit on. There are also fewer tourists, so you’ll get more time to enjoy the experience.

Here are all your hotel options in Dikwella.

This beautiful palm tree sticks out from its roots almost horizontally, which provides a fantastic backdrop for your sunset photos. You can find it outside the Dikwella Beach Hotel.

4. Places to Visit in Sri Lanka: One of the National Parks

Sri Lanka is lucky to have a great selection of wildlife and marine life. You can spot elephants, sloth bears, blue whales, dolphins, and even the elusive leopard! These animals roam freely in the wild, many living within the 26 national parks spread all over the country. In fact, it’s one of the best places for a safari in the world (outside of Africa )!

Each national park has its own unique characteristics. For example, some are known for their vast herds of elephants, and others for their diversity of monkey species. Whatever you choose, there is no better experience than jumping in a jeep and riding through the long grasses and bushland of Sri Lanka. It’s an incredible opportunity to see these majestic animals in the wild and one that you’ll remember forever.

Read:  Best National Parks, Sri Lanka

5. The Red Mosque, Colombo

The Red Mosque in Colombo is one of the most spectacular buildings you’ll find on your trip! The stunning candy-like red and white striped mosque is named ‘Jami Ul-Alfar’ and is located in the bustling Pettah district (one of the oldest parts of Colombo). The building from the outside is phenomenal, with its tall minarets towering across the city and its facade covered in red and white patterns moving in every possible direction. 

The inside is equally as beautiful, and tourists can enter and look around. However, be aware that this is a religious place of worship, and you will need to cover your hair, arms, and legs as a sign of respect.

Here are all your hotel options in Colombo.

6. Tea Plantations at Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka , famous for its rolling green hills and breathtaking tea plantations. This area has a rich history and is known as one of the most important tea producers globally; it’s also where Lipton Tea began! The British brought tea here during colonial times when they discovered the cool climate and high altitude of Nuwara Eliya provided the perfect growing conditions. Tea production continues to live on in Sri Lanka, and the country is still one of the largest exporters of the plant today.

Read: Explore the Lush Green Tea Plantations of Nuwara Eliya 

The area is home to many factories, plantations, and tea rooms. Rent a tuk-tuk for the day and ask your driver to take you on a tour, stopping off at the many beautiful viewpoints, and drinking tea at the factories. You can also arrange for a tour of the factories to learn more about tea production and its history. 

Tip: This area is also home to the incredible Ramboda waterfall, which is well worth stopping off at on your trip.

7. Galle Fort – A Must-visit in Sri Lanka

Galle Fort is an ancient town on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, bursting with culture, history, and architectural gems. The fort’s story began in the 1500s when the Portuguese arrived (although the town was an important trading center for hundreds of years before that). However, in the 18th century, the Dutch captured Galle Fort and rebuilt it as their headquarters.

Read: Things to do in Galle Fort

These buildings are of such cultural significance that UNESCO has named Galle Fort a world heritage site, promoting the continued preservation of the area. The turbulent history of invasions and colonization definitely explains the uniquely European feel in this tropical paradise!

Hotels in Galle 😴

Nowadays, visitors can enjoy visiting the ancient fort and wandering through the charming streets, full of beautiful Dutch -style buildings transformed into trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Tip: Make sure to head down to Galle fort wall at sunset for fantastic views.

8. Sigiriya Lion Rock

Sigiriya Lion Rock is known as one of the most remarkable natural phenomena globally and is one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka ! The enormous (200m) square-shaped rock emerges from the ground in the middle of a flat, dense landscape. The sheer size of the stone is totally jaw-dropping, almost looking as if it has appeared by magic.

Did you know? Lion Rock is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage sights in Sri Lanka .

Most interesting is that this rock was designed as a fortress by King Kashyapa as far back as 477 AD! He believed this was the most strategic place because of its panoramic views of the land below. The gardens he designed on top of the rock are still there today, as well as murals and rock paintings. It will take you around 2-3 hours to explore the entire area around and on top of Sigiriya Lion Rock.

Hotels in Sigiriya 😴

It’s recommended to climb Lion Rock as early as possible so that you can avoid the heat and see the epic sunrise from this elevated position.

Read: Climb the World-Famous Sigiriya Lion Rock

9. Pidurangula Rock

Pidurangula Rock is Lion Rock’s little sibling. It may be smaller, but the views are just as good as Sigiriya Lion Rock. Plus, it comes with the advantage of fewer tourists and crowds! You also have the unique vantage point of looking directly onto Lion rock itself, which gives you more time to admire the impressive formation. This hike is undoubtedly for adventurers; leave before sunrise with your torch and climb up steep boulders before reaching the top.

Hiking up Pidurangula Rock is a magical experience that you must add to your places to visit in Sri Lanka ! It also has a cheaper entrance fee than Lion Rock.

Pidurangula Rock, Sigiriya

10. Kandy Botanical Gardens

Kandy Botanical Gardens are the perfect place to escape the city’s heat and enjoy the tropical goodness of nature! The gardens are enormous and are home to hundreds of species of plants, trees, and flowers. It’s particularly famous for its massive collection of orchids, showcased in many varieties and colors.

Hostels in Kandy 😴

Spend an afternoon here, walking among the plants, taking photos, and relaxing on the grass. There’s also the option to sit down for a refreshing drink at one of the garden’s cafes. 

Read: Kandy, Sri Lanka

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Sri Lanka via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Wild Coast Tented Lodge: Glamping in Yala National Park

Sigiriya lion rock: climb the world-famous landmark, yapahuwa rock fortress: sri lanka’s best hidden attraction.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Sri Lanka is nice place for visiting. Thanks for sharing such nice blog.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Cities to Visit in Sri Lanka

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

In recent years, the tourism industry in Sri Lanka has really taken off, and it’s easy to see why. No longer blighted by civil war, the island nation’s glorious beaches, the plethora of incredible archaeological sites, and delicious cuisine have been attracting more and more visitors.

The cities in Sri Lanka are home to friendly and welcoming people, while their ancient temples, colonial-era forts, and intricate architectural wonders are just some of the sights you can expect to see. Bordered by beautiful beaches, forest-clad hills, and expansive national parks, nature is never very far away. Sri Lanka’s cities offer the best of both worlds, while the country’s rich cultural heritage shines through wherever you go.

15. Batticaloa

With much of the city surrounded by lagoons and the Indian Ocean, Batticaloa is a scenic place; the city has a laidback vibe despite being a commercial hub.

The center of town is home to some lovely colonial architecture, which is showcased in its beautiful churches and administrative buildings, while Batticaloa Fort is fascinating to visit.

As well as historic sites, the city has some lovely beaches on offer. Taking a boat trip to hear the ‘singing fish’ is a unique experience particular to Batticaloa.

The cultural, spiritual and political homeland of Sri Lanka’s Tamils, much of Jaffna was affected by the decades-long civil war that plagued the country, although it still exhibits a considerable amount of charm.

With a friendly and welcoming population, you’ll immediately feel at home in the city. There is much to see and do in its wonderful temples, churches and colonial-era buildings.

Because it hosts many local festivals and ceremonies, it is the perfect place to get to know the Tamil’s rich culture. There are lots of beautiful islands and lagoons nearby, as well as a national park if you want to explore the northern tip’s incredible natural bounties.

13. Unawatuna

A stunning place to visit, Unawatuna’s laidback vibe and fantastic beaches make it an increasingly popular destination.

With towering palm trees lining its golden sands and the Indian Ocean’s crystal clear water, it certainly paints a pretty picture; there are some excellent beachside bars and restaurants where you can watch the sun go down.

Its proximity to Galle means that it’s straightforward to get to. With some excellent scuba diving and snorkeling to be had, as well as lots of excursions available, Unawatuna is a must if you’re in the area.

12. Trincomalee

Located on a peninsula, Trincomalee’s spectacular natural harbor and glorious bays have long made it sought after. Whereas once colonial powers flocked to its shores, nowadays, tourists have replaced them.

While most people prefer to head to the nearby beaches, Trincomalee is more than just a pretty place; beautiful temples and the colonial-era Fort Fredrick represent just some of its 2500 years of history.

Its delightful waterfronts offer incredible views, and its lively port provides an exciting mix of people and cultures.

11. Tissamaharama

Known by locals as Tissa, this former capital of Sri Lanka’s ancient kings is a peaceful and pretty city that is often used as a gateway to the nearby national parks.

Scenically located on the shores of the artificial Lake Tissa Wewa – which was impressively constructed in the third century BC – Tissa’s highlight is the white stupa of Yatala Vehera – itself built around 2300 years ago.

While the city is a pleasant place to spend some time, its main attractions are the Yala and Bundala National parks, which are full of wildlife and lovely scenery. The famous pilgrimage site of Kataragama is also not far away.

10. Dambulla

Located in the interior of Sri Lanka, Dambulla is famous for its incredible cave temple complex which is full of beautiful statues of Buddha, as well as fantastic wall paintings.

While the complex certainly is impressive and worth a visit, it is in stark contrast to Dambulla, a chaotic, traffic-filled place.

In addition to the cave temples, the nearby Ibbankatuwa burial site is the only other sight on offer; it has some interesting tombs for you to explore.

9. Tangalle

With its beautiful beaches, sweeping bays, and laidback way of life, it comes as no surprise that Tangalle is one of the most popular places to visit along the southern coast.

The small town has many nice beachside bars and restaurants, while its expansive and plentiful beaches are the main reason that people visit. Due to its closed reef, there are some great spots at which to go scuba diving.

Just a short journey away, you can find the impressive cave temple of Mulkirigala, which has some beautiful wall paintings. Many people use Tangalle as a gateway to the secluded villages that lie along the coast.

8. Anuradhapura

First settled around 900 BC, Anuradhapura is home to some of the most impressive ruins in the country. As such, there are a wealth of amazing archaeological sites for you to explore.

In addition to the fabulous array of palaces, temples and ancient buildings, the city itself is a laidback place, with a couple of local markets to check out. The Archaeology Museum is well worth a visit to see its interesting collection of local artifacts.

The former capital of the Sinhalese is also home to one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites in the form of the Bodhi Tree Temple. It is still in use, and some colorful festivals take place here during the year.

Located in a beautiful setting with forest-covered hills, sweeping valleys, and picturesque tea plantations, Ella is a lovely place to spend time and is one of the most popular Hill Country villages.

Due to its recent surge in popularity, most of Ella’s hotels, bars and restaurants are now aimed at tourists. It can be quite hard to find the authentic side to the town, although it is certainly there if you look hard enough.

In any case, the surrounding countryside and stunning scenery are what most people come for; make sure to hike to some of the nearby waterfalls and temples, as well as to the top of Ella Rock for incredible views of Hill Country.

6. Nuwara Eliya

With its landscaped gardens, colonial-era buildings, and temperate climate, it is no surprise that Nuwara Eliya has earned itself the moniker of ‘Little England.’ Immaculate golf courses and a charming post office only add to the picture.

Lying in Sri Lanka’s scenic Hill Country, the city is surrounded by tea plantations and forest-blanketed hills. It was once a favorite retreat amongst British colonialists.

Due to the unique feel and look to the place, Nuwara Eliya is an interesting site to visit; the surrounding countryside is home to some fabulous mountains and waterfalls.

5. Hikkaduwa

Located just to the north-west of Galle, Hikkaduwa’s glorious beaches make it a popular tourist destination, and there are loads of excellent scuba diving and surfing spots to boot.

While Hikkaduwa has become a little touristy in recent years, it has still managed to retain much of its charm. Watching the sun go down over the ocean will never get old.

The town has a peaceful, laidback vibe about it. A visit to the national marine park with all of its brightly-colored corals is a must.

Although it does not have much in the way of sights, Negombo is a pleasant beach town that is the perfect place to head if you want to just chill out on golden sands.

In the past, Negombo was fought over by the British, Dutch and Portuguese, who wanted to control its cinnamon plantations. The old quarter is still home to a colonial-era fort and Dutch canal.

Lying just to the north of Colombo, the city has lots of restaurants, bars and accommodation options. Its tropical climate is ideal for lounging on the beach.

Once known as ‘the garden city of the East’ due to its pleasant and verdant appearance, the nation’s largest city still retains many of its leafy boulevards and landscaped gardens, despite its urban sprawl and rapid growth.

The commercial center of Sri Lanka seamlessly mixes modern malls and skyscrapers with beautiful colonial buildings. A range of architectural styles can be found in the city, with the Murugan Hindu temple being one of the best.

While Colombo can be a chaotic place, it has everything you could want in a city. You’ll undoubtedly come across fantastic restaurants, fascinating museums and a plethora of great stores. There is also lots of great nightlife to be had.

With beautiful mosques and churches lying next to elegant colonial-era mansions, interesting museums, and a crumbling fort, Galle is full of history and is one of the country’s most impressive cities.

Located on the south-west coast, Galle is lovely to wander around. Amidst all the historic sites and cultural landmarks, you’ll find lots of atmospheric cafes, trendy boutiques, and little art galleries.

The highlight is the 17th-century Dutch fort that lies on a peninsula jutting out into the ocean. Particularly spectacular at sunset, the fort is a living monument; its interior houses lots of souvenir stands and little bars.

Considered by many to be the cultural capital of the country, Kandy is a picturesque place to visit. Brightly-colored houses dot the forest-covered hills, and at the center of town, majestic buildings can be found bordering a glimmering lake.

As the former capital of Sri Lanka’s ancient kings, there is loads of history to devour, as well as lots of fantastic colonial-era architecture. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world – exhibits some beautiful Kandyan architecture that dates to the 16th century.

In addition to spectacular palaces and temples, Kandy also hosts the annual Esala Perahera festival, which showcases the rich Kanyan culture in all its splendor.

A fascinating place with lots to offer, Kandy’s beautiful scenery, interesting history, and rich heritage makes it one of Sri Lanka’s most enticing cities to visit.

Map of cities in Sri Lanka

Share this post:

9 Most Beautiful Provinces in Sri Lanka

10 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

15 Top Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka: Best Places & Hotels

10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

10 Best Sri Lanka Beach Resorts

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Sri Lanka

12 Best Things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sri Lanka

12 Best Things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

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

23 Mar 2023

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

Sri Lanka Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Sri Lanka Tour Package 4D/3N Hills & Beaches @ Rs 16,500

Plan your trip today!

Sri Lanka Family Holiday 5D/4N Package @ Rs 22,999

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Scenic Sri Lanka Honeymoon 6D/5N Package @ Rs 25,670

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Best Selling Sri Lanka Family 6D/5N Package @ Rs 30,934

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Adventurous Sri Lanka Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 34,500

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

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!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

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.

People Also Read

Beautiful Places In India Beautiful Places In Indonesia Beautiful Places In Venice

Recent Posts

Ravana’s Cave In Sri Lanka: A Place Of Historical And Mythological Significance

Marvellous UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Sri Lanka

5 Fabulous Hotels in Unawatuna to Plan Your Stay

6 Places To Visit In Sri Lanka In 2 Days For A Quick Getaway

6 Best Picnic Places In Sri Lanka To Spend Quality Time With Your Loved Ones

7 Best Spas In Sri Lanka For A Rejuvenating Getaway

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Sri Lanka »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 55 Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Tourist Places

Quick navigation.

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

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

• Nuwara Eliya

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

Udawattekele Sanctuary

Independence Memorial Hall

Dambulla Cave Temple

Best of Vietnam

Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, Kandy Lake (Bogambara We) is a serene artificial reservoir that enhances the city's natural beauty. Constructed in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil escape. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along its scenic promenade, soak in panoramic views of the city, and appreciate the cultural significance of this iconic water feature in the heart of the hill capital.

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

Best of Malaysia

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.

Best of Bali

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

Best of Hong Kong

Dhowa Rock Temple

Ravana's Cave

Places to Visit in Mirissa

Mirissa beach.

Best of Cambodia

Polhena Beach

The Doctors House

Places to Visit in Bentota

Bentota lake.

Best of Kuala Lumpur

Moragalla Beach

Kande Vihara

Best of Hanoi

People Also Ask About Sri Lanka

What are the best places to visit in sri lanka, what are the famous places to visit in sri lanka at night, which are the best places to stay in sri lanka, is sri lanka safe, what is the best time to visit sri lanka, what are the best sri lanka tour packages that we can book with thrillophilia.

• Sri Lanka Packages from Bangalore
• Sri Lanka Packages from Delhi
• Sri Lanka Packages from Chennai
• Sri Lanka Packages from Mumbai
• Sri Lanka Packages from Hyderabad
• Sri Lanka Packages from Ahmedabad

Trending in Sri Lanka

Adventure in sri lanka.

Sightseeing in Sri Lanka

Water Sports in Sri Lanka

Cycling in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Top Attractions

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, a revered pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka, stands as an iconic natural landmark and is often featured in Sri Lanka packages. Rising majestically in the central highlands, this sacred mountain is renowned for the "Sri Pada" or "Sacred Footprint," a revered indentation at its summit. Pilgrims and hikers alike ascend during the night to witness the breathtaking sunrise, creating a mystical experience. The journey offers not just religious significance but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Inclusion of Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka packages ensures a unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable adventure for travelers.

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.

More Sri Lanka Attractions

Sri lanka travel guides.

Sri Lanka Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Sri Lanka

More things to do in sri lanka, more on sri lanka tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Places To Visit in Sri Lanka

Here are the top 66 tourist places and attractions in sri lanka.

1 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 31 Tourist attractions

Tucked into Badulla District, Ella is a charming laidback town drawing travelers to Sri Lanka's highlands with tea plantations, mountain jungles, and a cool climate. At an elevation of 1,041 meters, this wildlife-rich town has ancient caves, centuries-old secluded temples, and the famous Ella Gap - ...

Best Time: December - March

2 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 33 Tourist attractions

Tucked into the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a major city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blessed with imposing Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient churches and mosques, blond beaches, mansions and museums, quirky boutiques, and a convivial seaside promenade, Galle attracts locals, foreign t...

Best Time: February

3. Sigiriya

3 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 14 Tourist attractions

Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Lion Rock," is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is located between Dambulla and Habarane and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Rising dramatically ...

Best Time: February to April

4 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 68 Tourist attractions

Discovered initially by traders two millennia ago, Colombo is Sri Lanka's largest economic corridor and tourist destination. As the island nation's capital city, Colombo is a cosmopolitan gateway to the wonders of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial heritage, splendid tropical landscapes and dele...

Best Time: December to March

Sri Lanka Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Best of Sri Lanka in 5 Nights: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Included

7 nights sri lanka family holiday package with wildlife safari, sri lanka budget tour package: climb sigiriya rock fortress, sri lanka ramayana trail tour package, quick sri lanka 4 nights tour package, soulmate special sri lanka honeymoon package, 5. hikkaduwa.

5 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 15 Tourist attractions

Hikkaduwa finds itself nuzzled in the Galle district of South Western Sri Lanka, 2 hours away from Colombo. The beaches of Hikkaduwa have been visited since the 1970s for their vibrant nightlife and cuisine. The beaches are a surfer's delight and have a large coral reef, the Hikkaduwa Cora...

Best Time: November - April

6 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 47 Tourist attractions

Settled on a plateau encircled by lush mountains, Kandy is a large city in central Sri Lanka with biodiverse rainforests and tea plantations. Around 4 hours by road from Colombo, the city is famed for the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Buddhist pla...

Best Time: December to April

7. Dambulla

7 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 11 Tourist attractions

Dambulla, situated in central Sri Lanka, is a historic town renowned for its ancient cave temples and rich cultural heritage. It is approximately 148 kilometers northeast of Colombo and is easily accessible by road or rail. The centerpiece of Dambulla is the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as ...

Best Time: January to May

8 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 15 Tourist attractions

Mirissa, nestled along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a picturesque and laid-back beach town that attracts travelers seeking sun, sand, and serenity. What was a faint old beach town has now risen to be one of the most popular surfing and whale-watching destinations in Sri Lanka. The beach ...

9. Yala National Park

9 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Sprawled over 979 square kilometres, Yala National Park in southeast Sri Lanka is the nation’s largest and most-visited wildlife conservation zone. As Lanka’s oldest wildlife sanctuary, Yala shelters a vast area of unspoilt jungles, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, home to the highe...

Best Time: February to June

10. Bentota

10 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 25 Tourist attractions

Bentota is a rural, beach and resort town located in the southern part of Sri Lanka, around 62 kms from the capital city, Colombo. Bentota is famously known for the Bentota Beach, which is loved by tourists and locals alike. The town known for its pristine waters and lush green landscapes, with...

Best Time: November to April

Best tourist destinations in Sri Lanka

Beaches in Sri Lanka

National Parks in Sri Lanka

Waterfalls in Sri Lanka

Historical Places in Sri Lanka

Beautiful Places in Sri Lanka

Religious Places in Sri Lanka

11. Trincomalee

11 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 20 Tourist attractions

The quaint city of Trincomalee also famously known as ‘Gokarna’ is an essential fragment of the country, contributing towards the betterment and development of the district and in a nutshell, Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is a port city famous for its white sand beaches and most beautiful harbours. The loc...

Best Time: May to June

12 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 13 Tourist attractions

Jaffna is probably Sri Lanka's most historical city located at the northern tip on the country and the city from time to time had been passed under the rule of various kingdoms, governments and the armies. Unlike the country’s southern parts which are more influenced and in a way controlled by the B...

Best Time: January to September

13. Anuradhapura

13 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 20 Tourist attractions

Anuradhapura, an ancient city nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's North Central Province, stands as a living testament to the island's rich cultural and historical legacy. Revered as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka for ove...

Best Time: April and September

14. Horton Plains National Park

14 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 6 Tourist attractions

Horton Plains National Park, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and iconic attractions. Spanning over 31 square kilometers, the park is characterized by rolling grasslands, misty forests, and ...

Best Time: January to March

15. Weligama

15 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 10 Tourist attractions

Weligama, located along Sri Lanka's southern coast, is a charming coastal town renowned for its picturesque beaches, vibrant surfing scene, and rich cultural heritage. The name "Weligama" translates to "sandy village," which perfectly reflects the town's idyllic setting along a stretch of golden san...

16. Adam's Peak

16 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

As one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the Indian subcontinent, Adam’s Peak is a 7,359 feet tall mountain in Sri Lanka, frequently visited by people of almost all major religions. It is widely known for Sri Pada, a foot-shaped indentation at the summit of the pyramid-like mountain. Also calle...

Best Time: December to May

17. Udawalawe National Park

17 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Udawalawe National Park is a stunning sanctuary renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes, located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. Covering an area of over 30,000 hectares, Udawalawe is best known for its large population of Asian elephants. The park provides a natural habitat ...

18. Nuwara Eliya

18 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 30 Tourist attractions

Nuwara Eliya is Sri Lanka's hill station famed for its tea production. With a multitude of gorgeous attractions ranging from waterfalls and tea plantations to gardens and lakes, Nuwara Eliya is the epitome of scenic beauty. Add to that the colonial-style buildings dotting the area, a golf course and...

Best Time: February - April

19. Tangalle

19 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 15 Tourist attractions

Tangalle or also known as Tangalla, is one of the less explored places in the beautiful country of Sri Lanka. At a distance of around 250 km south of the gorgeous capital city Colombo, lies the unexplored beach havens of Tangalle. The beautiful beaches of the town are glimmering with the crysta...

Best Time: April to July

20. Unawatuna

20 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 15 Tourist attractions

When in Sri Lanka be sure to pay a visit to Unawatuna which is in the southern part of Sri Lanka, 6 km from Galle. Known for its beautiful beaches, hip cafes, trendy restaurants and plenty of sightseeing make Unawatuna an attraction for tourists as well as the locals who are looking for a weekend ge...

Best Time: October to April

Best Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka

Sigirya Rock

Temple of the Tooth

Yala National Park

Whale Watching in Mirissa

Dambulla Cave Temple

Diving in Hikkaduwa

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Nine Arches Bridge

Horton Plains Worlds End

Tea Gardens of Nuwara Eliya

Ruwanweliseya Stupa

Climb The Sacred Adams Peak

21. Bundala National Park

21 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Bundala National Park is situated off the Sri Lankan coast, around 12 km away from the port town of Hambantota. Harbouring 197 colourful species of birds each year, the park is an internationally eminent, UNESCO-listed wintering ground for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka. Bundala is undoubtedly t...

Best Time: October to March

22. Arugam Bay

22 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 10 Tourist attractions

The Sri Lankan coastal town of Arugam Bay lies on the Indian Ocean, 320 kilometres from the capital city Colombo. With several surfing spots scattered across the area, for both beginners as well as skilled surfers, Arugam Bay is often called a surfer’s paradise. The famous surfing points here are Ma...

Best Time: April to September

23. Polonnaruwa

23 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 16 Tourist attractions

Polonnaruwa, a marvel of a place, is in Northern Sri Lanka. The city once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa under the Chola Empire in the 10th century. This makes it the second most historic kingdom in Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura. The entire town has two sections - the d...

Best Time: November to March

24. Batticaloa

24 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Batticaloa also is known as 'Batti' for short, is a small town located on the East coast of Sri Lanka which has a very mellow and calm vibe to it. The calming city is surrounded by beautiful lagoons and palm trees. This town is in the east of Sri Lanka is also easy to reach due to its connectivity t...

25. Negombo

25 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 15 Tourist attractions

Negombo is a quiet town on the west coast of Sri Lanka located 10 km from Bandaranaike International Airport. Deriving its name from the Negombo lagoon, the modest village is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters. Popular for being a beach resort town, it is also one of th...

26 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 3 Tourist attractions

In the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, lies the beach city of Matara. Located 160 km from Colombo, Matara has a stronghold in the teardrop island – in terms of scenic shores, Buddhist temples, a frolicking local life and authentic food.

27. Minneriya National Park

27 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

The Minneriya National Park is in the Northern province of Sri Lanka, four hours away from Colombo, and 30 minutes away from Sigiriya. The national park is famous for its herds of elephants migrating for food, water and shelter, and forming a 'gathering' that can be witnessed by the visitors. The dr...

28. Midigama

28 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Midigama is known to be the perfect Sri Lankan surfing turf. It is located at a distance of 140 kms from Colombo in the south coast region. Midigama is a small beach, so small in fact that you can cover both ends in just 10 minutes! The beach is a stretch of land. While one side consists of small sh...

Best Time: October to January

29. Ahangama

29 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Ahangama is a very calm and peaceful beach town with majestic palm trees all around. There is no sound apart from the waves hitting the shore and swaying of the trees making it ideal for a relaxing vacation.

Best Time: January to April & October to December

30. Nilaveli

30 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 2 Tourist attractions

Nilaveli seaside town is 16 km from Trincomalee District in Eastern Sri Lanka. The town boasts of beautiful waters that are ideal for water sports, snorkelling and scuba diving. The Nilaveli beach road doubles as a boulevard lined up with palm trees called the Nilaveli Beach Road. The seas here are ...

Best Time: November to May

31. Kaudulla National Park

31 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

It has been in existence for many years now, but it was given the recognition of a national park only in April 2002. The park spreads over 6656 hectares, and it is connected to the Somawathie Chaitiya Park and the Minneriya Wildlife Park. A reserve turned national park, Kaudulla sees herds of elepha...

Best Time: July to December

32. Haputale

32 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 5 Tourist attractions

Haputale is a small town in Sri Lanka that is quaint and nestled away from the main cities and towns. Apart from escaping the city’s hustle, Haputale is where one can surround themselves with rolling hills covered in tea plantations, and indulge themselves in the tranquil and the sere...

Best Time: May to July

33. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

33 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is one of the very few virgin rainforests in the world, which is why it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage! The unique relation of flora and fauna in this forest makes it one of the hotspots in the world. The forest is only 13 km in the stretch and around 7 to 8 km from nor...

Best Time: January to March; August to September

34. Kataragama

34 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 4 Tourist attractions

Kataragama is in the Monaragala District of the Uva province. It is about 228 kms away from Colombo. Kataragama is well known for its temples dedicated to various lords and often receives a right amount of tourists and pilgrims visiting to witness the grandiose of the beautiful architecture carved w...

35. Ratnapura

35 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 8 Tourist attractions

Famous for its gemstone industry, Ratnapura is a populous city in southwestern Sri Lanka. It is also known for serving as the start point of a trail that leads to the sacred Adam's Peak. A flourishing centre for gem trade for local and foreign traders alike, Ratnapura is home to numerous gem mines a...

36. Koggala

36 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Koggala is a coastal town in the southern region of Sri Lanka. A relatively offbeat destination which is famous for its namesake Koggala Beach and Koggala Lake. Surfing is a favourite activity amongst visitors to Koggala Beach. The lake, a freshwater lagoon, is dotted with small but scenic islands. ...

37. Kitulgala

37 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Nestled among forested hills, Kitulgala is a small Sri Lankan town in the western region of the country. Best known for being the most popular location in Sri Lanka for white water rafting, a visit to Kitulgala is a terrific combination of nature and thrill. It is also one of the wettest places in S...

38. Kumana National Park

38 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Apart from that the 18,149 hectare of national park also encompasses of a 200-hectare natural lake swamp, visited by various species of migratory birds. The national park does not only secure the species of birds but also breeds and roosts them. Some of the regular birds that can easily be spotted a...

Best Time: February to July

39. Uppuveli

39 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Located in the suburbs of Sambalativu, Uppuveli captures the earthy beachside of Sri Lanka, and in this belt lies the Uppuveli beach, 6 km northwest of the city of Trincomalee. Uppuveli in Sri Lanka is iconic due to its golden sands that shimmer in the sunlight. The warm sun enthrones the blue ...

40. Tissamaharama

40 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 13 Tourist attractions

Tissamaharama is a town in the southern province of Sri Lanka, located 270 km from Colombo. The city is an interface for tourist expeditions as it is the starting point for visits to Yala National Park and Kataragama.The town holds artefacts from the past and has historical icons which include three...

41. Kirinda

41 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 5 Tourist attractions

The Kirinda village is yet another developing tourist spot within Sri Lanka. A small coastal town, Kirinda is in the southern province of Sri Lanka. The southern region is first level administrative division in the country, inhabited by around 2.5 million people; it is the 3rd largest province in th...

42. Kalpitiya

42 out of 67 Places to visit in Sri Lanka 14 Tourist attractions

 Kalpitiya is a town surrounded by natural spaces and beaches. Kalpitiya covers a total area of 16.73 km²; the city has 14 islands with the main ones being Battalangunduwa, Palliyawatta, Uchchamunai, Periya Arichchalai, and Kakativu etc. Kalpitiya is one of the upcoming tourist destinations wit...

Best Time: April to October

Browse Package Collections

Sri lanka package collections.

Sri Lanka Honeymoon Packages

Sri Lanka Family Tour Packages

India Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Top Destinations for Packages

Nuwara Eliya

Anuradhapura

Nearby Countries for Packages

Top listed packages.

Ramayana Tour of Sri Lanka for 6 Nights

FAQs on Sri Lanka

What is the currency of sri lanka, what is the history of sri lanka, what is unique about culture of sri lanka, how is sri lanka divided into regions, top hotel collections.

Beach Resorts

Nearby Countries

Related Posts

Art & Culture

Languages in Sri Lanka - The Official and Other Languages

Food & Drink

Food in Sri Lanka - Exploring the Flavors of Sri Lankan Cuisine

Religion in Sri Lanka: Buddhism, Hinduism and Other Major Religions

Travel Tips

6 Airports in Sri Lanka: Getting Around Sri Lanka By Flight

Car rentals in Sri Lanka: Tips, Cost, Operators

Beaches & Islands

Wildlife & Nature

Elephants in Sri Lanka: Ethical Places To Visit To Meet Elephants

Cities in Sri Lanka

History of Sri Lanka: A Quick Tour of Sri Lanka's Vibrant History

Tourist Places in Sri Lanka To Explore The Emerald Country

Beautiful Places in Sri Lanka For A Stunning Holiday

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• All Best Rated Destinations

10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

1. Nuwara Eliya

At a distance of 53 km from Ella, 72 km from Kandy, 182 km from Sigiriya, 150 km from Dambulla, 168 km from Colombo, 188 km from Polonnaruwa, 227 km from Anuradhapura, 230 km from Mirissa, 267 km from Galle, 274 km from Trincomalee, and 412 km from Jaffna, Nuwara Eliya is a beautiful hill town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya district and among the must-include places in Sri Lanka Packages . Often called the mini London, Nuwara Eliya is known for its picturesque landscape and temperate climate. The literal meaning of Nuwara Eliya is the 'city on the plain (table land)' or 'city of lights'. It is a perfect place to relax and escape the oppressive heat and humidity that surrounds the rest of the country as this is the highest town in Sri Lanka situated at an altitude of 1868 m. Overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is considered to be the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka. Though Nuwara Eliya had been inhabited during the early period of the kingdom of Kandy, the existence of the spectacular 'Eliya' valley wasn't known to the Colonial British until the accidental discovery by the colonial civil servant John Davy in the year 1819. Governor Edward Barnes converted Nuwara Eliya into a commercial and a coffee planting center during the 1830s. In the year 1847, the great colonial explorer Samuel Baker ...

At a distance of 72 km from Nuwara Eliya, 92 km from Sigiriya, 110 km from Dambulla, 116 km from Colombo, 129 km from Ella, 137 km from Polonnaruwa, 140 km from Anuradhapura, 183 km from Trincomalee, 223 km from Galle, 245 km from Mirissa, and 321 km from Jaffna, Kandy is a scenic city located in central Sri Lanka. It is the capital of the Central Province of Sri Lanka and among the must-include places in Sri Lanka Tour Packages . Set on a high plateau in the midst of the thick tropical forests and the tea plantations is the city of Kandy, the second-largest city in Sri Lanka. More popularly known as the hill capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy is known for its spirituality and laid-back charm due to which the colonial town is frequented by tourists as well as Buddhists, especially of the Theravada School. The well-planned town of Kandy added value to its legacy and never changed its roots for the sake of development. It was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in the year 1988. The city and the region have been known by many different names and versions of those names. Some scholars suggest that the original name of Kandy was Katubulu Nuwara. However, the more popular historical name is Senkadagala or Senkadagalapura, officially Senkadagala Siriwardhana Maha Nuwara, generally shortened to 'Maha Nuwara'. The name Kandy is derived from an Anglicized version of the Sinhala Kanda Uda Rata, meaning the land on the mountain ...

3. Sigiriya

At a distance of 16 km from Dambulla, 62 km from Polonnaruwa, 75 km from Anuradhapura, 90 km from Kandy, 100 km from Trincomalee, 176 km from Colombo and 181 km from Nuwara Eliya, Sigiriya is an ancient city in the northern Matale district of Central Province in Sri Lanka. It is probably the most visited tourist destination of Sri Lanka as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages. Sigiriya sits right in the middle of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle made up of Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. Also known as the Lion's Rock or Lion Mountain, Sigiriya is a popular stop for tourists who are interested in archeological ruins as it is home to the ruins of the world recognized ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress situated on top of a massive 200-meter high rock surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. The rock itself is a lava plug left over from an ancient long extinct volcano. Excavations at Sigiriya indicate that the area was occupied during the prehistoric times. There is clear evidence that the many rock shelters and caves in the vicinity were occupied by Buddhist monks and ascetics from as early as the 3rd century BCE. In 477 CE, King Kashyapa of Anuradhapura moved the capital from the traditional capital of Anuradhapura to the more secure Sigiriya. During Kashyapa's reign (477 to 495 CE), Sigiriya was developed into a complex city and fortress. After his death, the site fell into decline and was again used as a Buddhist monastery ...

At a distance of 55 km from Galle, 89 km from Mirissa, 104 km from Colombo, 180 km from Kandy, 195 km from Ella, 209 km from Nuwara Eliya, 231 km from Sigiriya and 262 km from Anuradhapura, Bentota is a coastal town in Galle district of Southern Province in Sri Lanka. Known for its sandy shores, it is one of the popular beaches to visit in the island country as part of Sri Lanka Tour . Located on the southern bank of the Bentota River, Bentota is a quaint town surrounded by sandy shores, pristine waters and lush green landscapes with the dominance of tall palm trees. Interestingly, the name 'Bentota' is derived from Ben, a demon who once ruled the Tota or river bank. It is considered to be the prime beach resort of Sri Lanka as the National Holiday Resort Complex is associated with the Bentota Beach. The place is known for its sun-kissed beaches, lagoon, dive sites that offer the best views of coral reefs, century-old Buddhist temples, gardens and long stretches of coconut trees. Its glorious sun-kissed beaches make the town a perfect destination for families to spend quality time on the beach. Bentota Beach, Brief Garden, Moragalla Beach, Cinnamon Island, Kande Vihare Temple, Galapata Vihara, and Madu Ganga River Safari are the top places to visit in Bentota. Bentota is home to the majestic marine turtles. The community-run hatcheries in the area are doing their bit to help propagate marine life. Bentota ...

At a distance of 39 km from Negambo, 116 km from Kandy, 126 km from Galle, 150 km from Mirissa, 161 km from Dambulla, 167 km from Nuwara Eliya, 202 km from Anuradhapura, 205 km from Ella, 230 km from Polonnaruwa and 395 km from Jaffna, Colombo is the commercial capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka by population. Located in the western province of the Island, it is one of the must-include places in Sri Lanka Tour Packages . With rich colonial heritage and very scenic and popular attractions, Colombo is arguably the most popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, the legislative capital of the country, is within the urban area of the city, hence Colombo is often called the capital of Sri Lanka as well. It is also the administrative capital of the Western Province and the capital of Colombo district. The name 'Colombo', is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhala name Kolon Thota, meaning 'port on the river Kelani'. Another belief is that the name is derived from the Sinhala name Kola-amba-thota which means 'Harbour with leafy/green mango trees'. Sri Lanka has a long history and so does Colombo. As far back as the 5th century AD, Colombo served as a seaport for trade between Asia and the West. During the 8th century, Arab traders settled near the port. The Portuguese arrived in 1505 CE and later by the mid-17th century the Dutch had taken over Colombo and used as the capital ...

6. Anuradhapura

At a distance of 66 km from Dambulla, 75 km from Sigiriya, 106 km from Trincomalee, 107 km from Polonnaruwa, 139 km from Kandy, 194 km from Jaffna and 202 km from Colombo, Anuradhapura is an ancient city in Sri Lanka. It is the capital city of North Central Province and also the capital of Anuradhapura district. It is the most popular heritage place in Sri Lanka and among the must include destinations in Sri Lanka Tour Packages . Located on the banks of Malvathu River, Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city was the center of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. Famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization, Anuradhapura is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. The city is also home to one of the largest and most sacred Bodhi trees in Sri Lanka, believed to be a descendant of the original Bodhi tree where Buddha got enlightenment. Anuradhapura was first established by Anuradha, a follower of Prince Vijaya, the founder of the Sinhala race. Later in 377 BC, King Pandukabhaya made it his capital and developed it into a prosperous city. It was the royal capital for 119 successive Singhalese Kings and lasted for about 1500 years. Anuradhapura came into prominence after Buddhism was introduced to the island in the 3rd Century BC during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. Anuradhapura ...

At a distance of 42 km from Matara, 55 km from Bentota, 126 km from Colombo, 190 km from Yala, 222 km from Kandy, 251 km from Nuwara Eliya, 304 km from Anuradhapura, and 365 km from Trincomalee, Galle is an ancient port city located on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in the region as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages and among the must include places to visit in honeymoon trip . Synonymous with the country's fascinating history and rich culture, no Sri Lanka Tour is complete without visiting Galle as this historic city is blessed with imposing Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient mosques, and churches, grand mansions, and museums. Galle was known as Gimhathitha in ancient times and is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhalese term meaning 'port near the river Gin'. Another theory is that the word Galle is derived from the Dutch word 'Gallus', which means rooster, as the Dutch have used the rooster as a symbol of Galle. As per the historical records, Galle was an important trading center for the Arabs, Chinese and Malays, long before the Europeans occupied it. The colonial period began with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century, who was on the way to the Maldives. They remained here and built a fort called Santa Cruz. Later, the Dutch invaded Galle and began the reconstruction of ...

At a distance of 22 km from Badulla, 53 km from Nuwara Eliya, 129 km from Kandy, 166 km from Polonnaruwa, 171 km from Dambulla, 182 km from Sigiriya, 221 km from Galle, 224 km from Colombo, 235 km from Anuradhapura, 272 km from Trincomalee, and 415 km from Jaffna, Ella is a quaint little hill town located in the Badulla district of the Uva Province in Sri Lanka. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful places to visit on the island as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages . Situated at an altitude of 3,415 feet, Ella is surrounded by hills covered with cloud forests and tea plantations. The area has a rich bio-diversity, dense with numerous varieties of flora and fauna. The town also offers stunning mountain hikes and lovely waterfalls. With picture-perfect environs, a pleasant climate, and super-friendly people, it is an ideal destination for people trying to break the routine of the warm and humid climate of coastal Sri Lanka. The town is most famous for its iconic nine arches railway bridge which is a fine example of colonial-era construction in Sri Lanka. The hill town of Ella is connected to the Hindu epic, Ramayana, a historic tale that covers over India and Sri Lanka. The locals believed that the town of Ella is the place where goddess Sita was held captive in a cave near Ravana Falls. The story goes that King Ravana kidnapped Princess Sita from India and hid her in the caves behind the waterfall. It is also ...

9. Yala National Park

At a distance of 21 km from Tissamaharama, 111 km from Ella, 164 km from Nuwara Eliya, 172 km from Galle, 225 km from Bentota, 247 km from Kandy, 283 km from Sigiriya, 304 km from Colombo, 336 km from Anuradhapura, and 373 km from Trincomalee, Yala is a national park located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka. It is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka and among the must include places in Sri Lanka Tour Packages . Extends over the Hambantota district of southern province and Monaragala district in Uva province, Yala is the second largest national park as well as the most visited national park in Sri Lanka due to its high density of leopards. Ironically, the park was initially used as a hunting ground for the elite under British rule. Situated in Sri Lanka's south-east hugging the panoramic Indian Ocean, Yala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was designated a national park in 1938. Yala combines a strict nature reserve with a national park. Divided into 5 blocks, the park has a protected area of nearly 130,000 hectares of land consisting of light forests, scrubs, grasslands, tanks, and lagoons. Though Yala spreads over a vast area, only two of its designated blocks are open to the visitors while the remaining area is a strictly designated Natural Reserve. The rocky outcrops scattered over the park provide vantage points to enjoy the sprawling areas with Sri Lanka's dry zone landscape. ...

10. Trincomalee

At a distance of 100 km from Sigiriya, 106 km from Anuradhapura, 108 km from Dambulla, 133 km from Polonnaruwa, 182 km from Kandy, 236 km from Jaffna and 269 km from Colombo, Trincomalee is a charming coastal town on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. It is the administrative headquarters of the Trincomalee district and among the must include destinations in Sri Lanka trip . Sitting prettily on a remarkable natural harbour, the charming town of Trincomalee with oodles of history and interesting sites is a great escape from the touristy south. The port town is built on a peninsula of the same name, which divides its inner and outer harbours. The town got its historic Tamil name Thirukonamalai from Koneswaram Temple situated on the Swami Rock. Trincomalee is an anglicized form of the old Tamil word 'Thiru-kona-malai', meaning 'Lord of the Sacred Hill'. Trincomalee has been one of the main centers of Sri Lankan Tamil language speaking culture on the island for over two millennia. Trincomalee known as Gokanna, Gokarna or Siri Gonamala, has a recorded history of more than 2500 years, beginning with the civilian settlement associated with the Koneswaram temple in the pre-modern era. One of the oldest cities in Asia, it has served as a major maritime seaport in the international trading history of the island with South East Asia. In the ancient world, it was successively the capital of eastern kingdoms of the Vanni ...

Please wait... the destinations are being loaded

Most Asked Questions on Sri Lanka

It usually takes minimum 5-6 days to visit top destinations in Sri Lanka. It is very easy to cover all the top places in Sri Lanka in a single trip. One can start from Colombo and visit Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, Bentota and near by places.

Sri Lanka can be vistited at any time throughout the year, however, winter from October to March is the best season to visit Sri Lanka. It is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. Hill stations like Kandy & Nuwara Eliya attract large crowds in summer season.

Budget of Sri Lanka trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Sri Lanka tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 25000 per person for a 5D/4N trip and from INR 30000 per person for 6D/5N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Sri Lanka like Colombo, Kandy, Bentota, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Anuradhapura, Galle, Yala National Park, Trincomalee, etc.

Sri Lanka is one of the safest states in India and people are very liberal in nature. It is very safe for domestic & foreign tourists as well as single women to visit the Country.

Top 5 Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Most popular tours, most popular tourist places in sri-lanka.

Similar Getaways

Popular Bangalore Getaways

• Top Places to Visit near Bangalore
• Best Hill Stations around Bangalore
• Best Waterfalls near Bangalore
• Adventure / Trekking near Bangalore
• Popular Beaches around Bangalore
• Top Heritage Sites near Bangalore
• Wildlife Sanctuaries near Bangalore
• Pilgrimage Sites around Bangalore

Popular Sri-Lanka Getaways

• Best Places to Visit in Sri-Lanka
• Top Hill Stations in Sri-Lanka
• Best Waterfalls in Sri-Lanka
• Best Beaches in Sri-Lanka
• Advanture / Trekking Sites in Sri-Lanka
• Best Pilgrimage Sites in Sri-Lanka
• Historical / Heritage Sites in Sri-Lanka
• Wildlife Parks in Sri-Lanka

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

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 .

More From Forbes

5 boutique luxury hotels you can’t miss in sri lanka.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Sri Lanka may conjure ideas of tropical coastlines flanked with palm-trees but this island is more than just a paradise for beaches. With 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sacred cities and tea plantations, there’s a lot to experience in Sri Lanka’s interior during your trip. The “Cultural Triangle” — which includes Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Kandy — showcases the glory of Sri Lanka’s ancient empires, while its hill towns speak to its modern history as a British colony and are ideal for hiking, relaxing and immersing yourself in the country’s lush landscapes.

Here are the best luxury hotels to stay in to explore the many marvels of Sri Lanka’s vast interior. And if you’re looking for beachside accommodations, check out the best boutique hotels along Sri Lanka’s southern coast .

Uga Ulagalla

Effusively elegant and refined, Uga Ulagalla is the flagship property of Uga Escapes, a locally owned, sustainable luxury hospitality brand that boasts six hotels throughout the country. Opened in 2010, this sumptuous estate captures the country’s Dutch colonial flair: the hotel has 25 villas with pools dotted throughout the vast property with tasteful furnishings like chaise lounges, four-poster beds and stand-alone bathtubs. You can pick between views of the green paddy field, jungle fauna or tranquil lakes.

An expansive estate that sits on 58 acres, Sri Lanka's lush vegetation is on your doorstep, whether you opt to go kayaking or horseback riding in lakes with flowering lily pads or cycling through to nearby villages. The property can also arrange guided tours of cultural attractions including the Sacred City of Anuradphaura, with its many Buddhist temples and stupas, and Mihintale, an important pilgrimage site set upon three peaks. If you’re after the local fauna, book a scenic game drive that takes you off-the-beaten-path to Nachchaduwa Lake, a popular spot that attracts a myriad of birds, buffalos and elephants.

Uga Ulagalla’s 150-year-old mansion is the focal point of the property where you can enjoy your breakfast al fresco on the upper deck of Liyawela restaurant or sunbathe at the main swimming pool. In the evening, don’t miss the property’s signature “Kamatha” dining experience which serves an endless array of traditional Sri Lankan curries in a typical village home surrounded by paddy fields. A veritable epicurean feast, the spread features seasonal vegetables from the property's organic farm — like luffa gourd and starfruit — along with lake fish and free-range meats sourced from local farmers. A multi sensory experience for the palate.

Trump Media Stock (DJT) At Risk Of A New Short Selling Plunge

Your best look yet at the new iphone 16, ryan garcia what s ostarine and how could a boxer use it to cheat.

Water Garden Sigiriya

Just a short drive from Sigiriya, a 5 th -century AD royal palace located on top of a towering rock that dominates the skyline, Water Garden Sigiriya is an ideal base to visit Sri Lanka’s leading attraction. Set upon dozens of shimmering ponds and streams, the resort’s landscaping pays homage to the landscape designs atop Sigiriya’s citadel where Prince Kashyapa implemented advanced water irrigation techniques 2,000 years ago.

Water Garden Sigiriya is home to abundant wildlife, including 200 peacocks that roam freely around 30 spacious villas set upon the manicured property. Deluxe Villas are partially submerged on a natural lake, while Superior Deluxe Villas offer exclusive views of Sigiriya and boast spacious sundecks with private pools. At the center of the property, Twin Level Bar overlooks Water Garden Sigiriya's scenic outdoor swimming pool which is particularly enticing at sunset. Each evening, the Main Restaurant provides a curated tasting menu for guests alongside an à la carte menu with an extensive range of local and international dishes.

From Sigiriya, culture enthusiasts can easily reach the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa in 1-hour and the incredible painted Cave Temples of Dambulla in 30-minutes, two other must-see sites in Sri Lanka's cultural triangle. Nature lovers can enjoy outdoor activities which include archery, nature walks and a jeep safari of nearby Minneriya National Park, which boasts the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.

98 Acres Resort & Spa

What began as a thriving tea business has expanded into 98 Acres Resort & Spa : a fully-fledged hospitality and lifestyle brand. Owned by the same family that founded Halpé Tea, one of the largest tea factories in Sri Lanka, 98 Acres has 36 woodsy chalets suspended in the hillside. Designed with natural materials for an upscale, rustic feel, accommodations feature hard-wood floors, rubble stone bathrooms and furniture made with upcycled railway sleepers. The Royal Deluxe room features a roll-out bed where you can enjoy breakfast in bed while admiring views of Little Adam's Peak, while the Grand Executive Suites feature private plunge pools.

Set along the hiking route to Little Adam’s Peak, visible in the distance from your private balcony, 98 Acres offers a luxurious nature immersion in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. The colorful town of Ella, lined with bohemian cafes and small boutiques, is just a short tuk tuk ride away, and it’s a leisurely walk to the famous Nine Arches Bridge from here. Restaurant 98, spread out within a large hut at the top of the resort, serves a buffet breakfast and daily-changing set menu for lunch and dinner each day. Offering international and local dishes, the cuisine is a stand-out and will make it difficult to leave the property.

In addition to the 98 Acres fabulous spa and resort activities, which include bird watching and private cooking classes, guests can enjoy a more social atmosphere at the Ravana Pool Club or go zip-lining on the Flying Ravana Adventure through the hills. And don’t miss exploring the Halpé Tea plantation on a factory tour, which offers a unique insight into Sri Lanka’s longstanding tea heritage.

Camellia Hills

A stylish bungalow overlooking the picturesque Castlereagh Reservoir, Camellia Hills is an intimate retreat from the world surrounded by undulating tea plantations. Part of the Teardrop Hotels collection, it is one of the group’s seven boutique properties around Sri Lanka which promise exceptional service and amenities in unique locations throughout the island.

With only five bedrooms, the property operates more like a home than a hotel, and the staff’s warm and relaxed demeanor will make you feel like you’re visiting your chic friend’s countryside estate. At Camellia Hills, everything is highly personalized, and no request is too small. You can enjoy farm-to-table fresh meals at any time of the day, borrow books from the bungalow’s vast collection and enjoy leisurely strolls in the naturally manicured estate that surrounds you.

The home’s inviting open-air plan, with vaulted living room and outdoor patio, will surely coax you away from the comforts of your bedroom. Spend afternoons luxuriating by the infinity pool, sipping cocktails on the terrace or relaxing with a pot of tea by the fireplace. Despite its small size, Camellia Hills has designed an enticing menu with an array of creative dishes, from seafood pumpkin gnocchi and hoisin glazed pork skewers to wok-fried rice noodles with tamarind tofu. Dishes are made expressly for guests, guaranteeing fresh, seasonal flavors at every meal.

An ideal escape for couples or families eager to spend a few days unwinding between sightseeing, you can enjoy a number of curated activities in the area. Explore Castelreagh’s bright turquoise hues up close with an excursion on a fisherman’s canoe or enjoy picnics in scenic locations including nearby waterfalls and secret viewpoints in the tea plantation. Or experience a once-in-a-lifetime hike up to Adam’s Peak, a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus and Christians.

A petite boutique hotel in the fishing village of Negombo, Uga Riva is the newest member of Uga Escapes just opened last November 2024. Set within a 180-year-old manor house — the former residence of the prominent Colombo Chetty family — this 6th-generation family home has welcomed many notable figures throughout the decades. In 1927, Mahatma Gandhi visited the property during his visit to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) and planted a tree in the garden.

This 5-acre coconut plantation is the perfect place to kick-off, or end your trip, through Sri Lanka thanks to its proximity to the airport. Colombo International Airport is just 30-minute drive away, making Negombo a more strategic base compared to Colombo. But when you step inside, you’ll realize this is much more than a traditional “airport” hotel.

With only seven bedrooms and exclusive access for guests, this tranquil resort offers privacy and seclusion from the world. The central swimming pool is a peaceful place to unwind after enjoying a meal at Uga Riva’s restaurant, which serves Sri Lankan and international specialties with a spin. Beneath the verandas, period furnishings are juxtaposed with contemporary illustrations and watercolors by Sri Lankan artists.

No matter what time you arrive, the staff will be on hand to welcome you with a warm smile and a refreshing drink. For an airport that receives visitors at all hours of the day and night, this kind of service is priceless. Uga Riva is a great place to rest, recharge and continue your onwards journey.

See More : The Best Hotels Along Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions