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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

Sri Lanka is truly spellbinding and will suit any traveler’s interests with its top tourist attractions. The small island nation is chock-full of adventure activities like surfing and trekking.

There are several highly religious sites for the religious devotee, and unbelievable historical tourist attractions for history buffs in Sri Lanka . However, no one can dispute Sri Lanka’s incredible natural beauty. Whether it be en-route to a perfect surf break, visiting a historical site or on a pilgrimage, lush greenery and exotic animals are never far away.

15. Nine Arch Bridge [SEE MAP]

One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights is the Nine Arch Bridge in the small mountain town of Ella. This viewpoint offers spectacular panoramas of the surrounding area, which is made up of verdant greenery and tea fields.

Visitors can watch trains roll over the bridge as they make their way along the Demodara Loop. Constructed in the early days of the railway expansion in Sri Lanka, the bridge is particularly impressive because it is made of cement, stone and brick, without the use of any steel.

14. Mihintale [SEE MAP]

Mihintale is a mountain near the town of Anuradhapura. Its summit has much spiritual significance to the Buddhist community. It’s believed that on this mountain top a Buddhist monk named Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa and together this meeting introduced Buddhism to the country.

Monk Mahinda impressed the King with the peacefulness of the Buddhist doctrine and his contented, serene nature. The King subsequently renounced war, and went on to spread peace throughout the nation. There are several impressive religious and historical structures on and around Mihintale Mountain. Hundreds of pilgrims visit the site each year.

13. Unawatuna [SEE MAP]

This white sand beach in the small seaside town of Unawatuna is a great place to relax. There are a number of snorkeling and diving operators in town who take advantage of the abundance of coral reefs just off the beach.

Colorful fish and plentiful turtles are the norm in these waters. There are a number of great dining options along the beach, which welcome visitors to use their sun loungers and relax the day away with a drink in hand.

12. Gal Viharaya [SEE MAP]

Visitors can find Gal Viharaya in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Gal Viharaya is a famous Buddhist site and is celebrated for its many caves and large sculptures of Buddha which are carved into the rock faces. They are extremely well preserved, even though they were crafted in the 12th century.

To the side of one of the statues, a code of conduct is inscribed. The code, when followed, was meant to purify the Buddhist monks and bring them together under one order. It was created by a very famous king: King Parakramabahu the first. Today, Gal Viharaya is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular sites of pilgrimage.

11. Kataragama Festival [SEE MAP]

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, the Kataragama Festival takes place every year in July or August and is dedicated to one of the Hindu gods. It takes place over a two-week period and people from all over the world come to join in.

The festival is jam-packed with parades of elephants and colorfully dressed performers. There are countless traditional dances that take place; with musicians, acrobats, and fire-breathers feeding into the festival’s contagious energy.

10. Udawalawe National Park [SEE MAP]

There are few places in the world where elephant sightings are so frequent. However, elephants are not the only animals to see within Udawalawe National Park; peacocks, jackals, water buffalo, crocodiles, monkeys and deer also roam the area.

Safaris are most popular in the early morning hours when animals are at their most active. The biodiversity of the park can be attributed to its varied landscape; it is flanked by mountain ranges to the north with wetlands and rivers hugging the grasslands and forests at the base of the mountains.

9. Ravana Falls [SEE MAP]

The beautiful Ravana Falls are used for bathing in the hot summer months. In the rainy season, the water flow is exceptionally strong and is an impressive sight. The falls are part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary, and the nearby cave complex is rich in local legend.

Conveniently located on the main road on the way to Ella town, the caves are a common stop off point for visitors during their journey. Many cheeky monkeys live in the surrounding trees and they are often seen on the roadside dining on fruit. However, don’t let them get too close, as sometimes they can get over-friendly with visitors.

8. Dambulla Cave Temple [SEE MAP]

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a sacred Buddhist site. There is no entry fee to get into the temple on full-moon days; however, these days are especially busy because of the religious significance of this lunar phase. Devotees from all over the world make pilgrimage to this place.

There are over 80 caves documented in the area, but the most famous five are outfitted with impressive statues and paintings. Some of the caves date back to 1000 BC, when prehistoric Sri Lankans would have lived within them, so it is unsurprising that they would have created temples inside at that time. If you do plan to visit, please be aware that visitors must cover their shoulders and legs and remove shoes before entering the temple.

7. Mirissa [SEE MAP]

Mirissa is the ultimate Sri Lankan beach getaway. The beautiful long beach is flanked by tall overhanging palm trees and lined with modern restaurants and hotels. The restaurants have western style food at Sri Lankan prices. Just off the beach is Parrot Rock. It has a small staircase leading to the top that offers great views of the ocean and coastline.

Day trips from Mirissa include whale watching, snorkeling and surfing. Weligama, just a few kilometers from Mirissa, is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka to learn surfing. Come happy hour and into the evening, many the restaurants turn their venues into beach clubs and pump out drinks and tunes.

6. Arugam Bay [SEE MAP]

Arugam Bay is revered by surfers. This small town on the east coast of Sri Lanka embodies the quintessential laid-back surf lifestyle. The Main Point surf break is within walking distance from the town center, but is only recommended for advanced or intermediate surfers.

Otherwise, Whiskey Point or Peanut Farm are two great surf beaches for beginner and intermediate surfers; a short tuk-tuk ride will take you there. Often elephants and peacocks can be spotted beside the road, just outside of town. The main strip in Arugam Bay town is lined with restaurants and hotels where you can dine on anything from traditional Sri Lankan curry to full English breakfasts.

5. Temple of the Tooth [SEE MAP]

The Temple of the Tooth is a highly sacred place. The temple contains one of Buddha’s teeth. Legend has it that the tooth was taken from the Buddha on his deathbed, then smuggled to Sri Lanka from India. It was smuggled in the hair of a princess, after her father’s kingdom had been besieged.

It immediately became an object of great importance and has been celebrated and paraded throughout history. However, many attempts have also been made to steal or destroy the tooth. Twice daily, pujas are held to celebrate the relic and offer visitors and devotees the chance to get a glimpse of the tooth within its casing.

4. Adam's Peak [SEE MAP]

At the summit of Adam’s Peak is a footprint cast in stone. It has spiritual significance to a number of different religions, however, there is currently a Buddhist monastery at the summit. To the Buddhists, the footprint is that of Buddha’s; to Christians, the footprint is Adam’s; and to Hindus, the footprint is attributed to Shiva.

The site is a popular place of pilgrimage, especially on full moon nights. The trek to the top of the mountain to see the footprint is via a steep staircase containing over 5000 steps. The trail is lined with many tea stalls and food shops which act as places of rest. Most people begin their hike at 2:30 am to reach the summit in time for sunrise.

3. Galle Fort [SEE MAP]

It is easy to get lost in the cobblestoned alleyways and streets within Galle Fort. Today the area is full of modern restaurants, hotels, clothing, and souvenir shops. Meanwhile, snake charmers and buskers line the seawall.

However, the fort was not always such a cosmopolitan spot. A basic fort was constructed by the Portuguese when they made their first landing to the island in 1505. When the Dutch eventually seized control of Galle , they made a number of improvements; including the enormous sea wall that still lines the fort. Galle Fort is an excellent example of what the synthesis between European and Asian architecture looks like.

2. Yala National Park [SEE MAP]

Yala National Park is made up of spellbinding vistas and a true abundance of Sri Lankan wildlife. It has the highest density of leopards in the world, so chances of seeing them are very high.

Although leopards are the main attraction here, they are followed closely by elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles. The park is divided into five blocks; some of which were zoned to hunters until Yala became a national park in 1938. Ensure you make time to visit the very informative visitor center at the entrance of the park for insightful displays about the area.

1. Sigiriya Rock Fort [SEE MAP]

Sigiriya Rock Fort is utterly impressive. The rock walls rise up 200 meters from the ground, only to give way to a flat plateau at their summit. There are steep stairwells to reach the top and many frescos to marvel at on the way up. At the top, you can find the remains of an ancient civilization, including relics of a palace and monastery.

It would have taken true engineering ingenuity to build a structure at this height so many centuries ago. Around the rock fort are many important caves and gardens; impressively, they are some of the first landscaped gardens in the world.

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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. 

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15 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated May 3, 2023

Writer Freddy Sherman visited Sri Lanka and spent time exploring Colombo, the Hambantota area, and Udawalawe National Park.

Sri Lanka is an amazing travel destination offering a wide range of places to visit and things to do. This island, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of India, presents visitors with an incredible array of environments and tourist attractions to enjoy and experience.

This relatively compact island boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites where that history is preserved. The best places travelers can trace the island's fascinating history, from ancient times through the colonial period to the present, are in cities like Colombo and Kandy .

Incredible outdoor landscapes and safari experiences can be found in the country's large elephant- and leopard-filled national parks, like Yala, Minneriya, and Udawalawe. Sri Lanka is also a beach-lover's paradise , ringed by some of the world's most beautiful beaches, and home to a number of luxury beach resorts.

The Hambantota area is the best place to visit for a resort vacation experience. This is also one of the best places to visit for families, as many of the resorts are all-inclusive and there is a lot to see and do without having to leave the property.

When planning a Sri Lankan adventure, keep in mind that the country experiences its rainy season from May through August, making December through April usually the best time to visit. The shoulder season, September, October, and November, is a good time to visit as well.

Plan your travel itinerary with our list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

3. Udawalawe National Park

5. hikkaduwa beach, 6. galle face green, 7. yala national park, 8. anuradhapura, 9. pollonnaruwa, 10. tangalle, 11. bundala national park, 13. adam's peak, 14. sigiriya, 15. minneriya national park, map of places to visit in sri lanka.

The capital city combines modern urban amenities with the country's colorful indigenous and colonial history. As a key stop on the world spice trade routes, Sri Lanka has long held strategic importance for European trading powers.

The country has been a colony of Portugal, the Netherlands, and most recently the British, and all these cultures blend with the Indigenous culture to form a wonderful hybrid. You can taste these influences in the food, see them in the architecture and the arts, and you can really feel them in Colombo.

Too many visitors simply use Columbo for its international airport (CMB) and immediately head out to the resort areas on the coast. The city is well worth a visit of at least a few days, even if you plan to head to a beach resort.

The city is also filled with museums and other things to do that can help connect you with Sri Lankan culture. Colombo sits on the coast, and there's a large green space and beach area right in the heart of the city separating an area called Fort from the Indian Ocean. It's the city's public playground and a fun place to visit, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

The city's new mega-tower, the Colombo Lotus Tower , is a great place to visit. The tallest free-standing tower in Southeast Asia, it provides amazing views of the city. Aside from indoor and outdoor observation areas, there's a fancy restaurant at the top and a popular food court in the mall at the tower base.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka

Kandy is where you go to learn about and experience Sri Lankan history. Located in central Sri Lanka, the city is the former capital city of the Sri Lankan royal dynasty, the country's main capital before the colonial period.

The high point of what's called the "Kandian Era" was between the 15 th and 18 th centuries, when the area remained independent while most of the coastal regions were colonized by European powers.

Be sure to visit the city's National Museum of Kandy , as it illustrates the story of the region and its people via exhibits and artifacts. Nearby, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a very holy Buddhist shrine, part of the royal palace complex. If you visit in August, there is a huge festival celebrating the temple and relics.

Kandy Lake is at the heart of the city and offers a peaceful refuge from the heat. There are hiking paths that circle the lake, dotted with temples and shrines. Venture out to the nearby suburb of Peradeniya and its amazing Royal Botanical Gardens.

Kandy is surrounded by mountains, which are home to many tea plantations. Some can be visited and offer tours and tea tastings. It's also surrounded by rainforests. The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a forest park located within the city limits. The forest reserve has miles of hiking trails, as well as an excellent nature center with educational information.

This large wildlife park is in the southern part of the country, about an hour's drive from the resort area of Hambantota. The terrain and environment vary, as the park is on the border of the country's wet and dry zones.

Visitors to the park can see elephants, as there's a large population of them, along with crocodiles, water buffalo, and more. In fact, it's one of the best places in the world to see elephants in the wild outside of Africa .

There are leopards there, too, but they can be very hard to track or spot. There are also monkeys and a large assortment of deer and small mammals. It's also an excellent place for bird-watching.

There are some small accommodations and guesthouses across from and even inside Udawalawe. You can also visit as a day trip, the best times to visit are very early in the morning or very late in the afternoon.

The city of Galle is about a two-hour drive from Colombo via one of the country's first modern superhighways. This ancient trading port reflects its colonial history and is focused around a large, 17 th -century seafront fort.

Galle Fort is an entire preserved walled town, now filled with boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants (along with real residents). The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is a great place to explore on foot – the entire Fort area is car-free. It's hard to get lost, as you're surrounded on three sides by the sea. It's one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for families, as the area is compact and filled with tourist-centric businesses.

Aside from and outside the fort, the city is surrounded by some amazing beaches . Like others in the country, the wide sand beach leads into clear, turquoise water. There's even a beach right beneath the iconic Galle lighthouse.

Only 90 minutes from Colombo, this beach is all about water sports, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. All the gear is easily available for rent from one of the beachfront stands. It's one of the country's most popular surfing areas , with the best waves between November and March.

The beach is large, so it never feels too crowded. There are a lot of beachfront stands selling all kinds of delicious local street food and a good number of small hotels and guesthouses if you want to stay overnight. It's also becoming home to more beach resorts, catering to foreign visitors with appropriate levels of luxury and amenities.

It's also known for its coral. The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary is a preserved marine area and part of Hikkaduwa National Park , located just off the shoreline. It was created to protect the area's coral reefs and educate visitors about coral. It can be explored on a guided boat tour or even by snorkeling.

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Sri Lanka's version of LA's Venice Beach and NYC's Central Park isn't the place to get away from it all, but it is the place to relax, people watch, and have some fun with other Sri Lankans, whether it's day or night.

Aside from the beach, there's a large grass area where people picnic and play games. For the best energy, visit on a Friday or Saturday night. Come hungry, as every night there is a market with incredible street food to enjoy.

You can enjoy the beach and water or maybe fly a kite in the ever-present wind. You can play some football (soccer) or cricket as there are always pick-up games going on. The beach is fronted by vendors and restaurants, and the area beyond it is filled with hotels ranging in price from budget to luxury.

Be sure to visit the historic Galle Face Hotel, a beachfront colonial remnant that first opened in 1864. Galle Face Green is in the heart of downtown Colombo, just in front of Fort. You have the skyline behind you and the sea in front of you. It's the area between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean.

Located on the island's southeast coast, this national park is known for leopard safaris . Leopards are very rare, but the park has a large population and it's possible to spot them even on a day trip. The park is also home to a large population of Asian elephants, which are endemic to Sri Lanka.

Aside from the fauna, the park is home to some incredible, varied environments and ecosystems. You can visit the marine and beach environment of the coastal areas, follow leopards across vast grasslands, or explore tropical rainforests.

There are also some important Buddhist temples and shrines within Yala, which is not far from the resort area of Hambantota.

A visit to Anuradhapura, one of the country's ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rewards visitors with a glimpse into the past. The area is unique, as there's a thriving, modern town adjacent to an ancient one — you're not just visiting ruins. The current population makes it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth (starting in the 4th century BCE).

The ruins are awesome, with many crumbling temples, statues, pools, and other structures. There are modern structures, too, and the temple remains an active place of worship. The core of the complex is a very old tree. The Sri Maha Bodhi is believed to be the world's oldest living tree planted by a human.

Anuradhapura is a fun place to visit, as there are a lot of small guesthouses and cheap places to eat, along with bike rental, tour guides, and other businesses catering to tourists.

This is an important ancient city ruin site, another one of the country's World Heritage Sites . Pollonnaruwa was Sri Lanka's second capital city, after Anuradhapura, thriving about a thousand years ago.

The garden-city is completely preserved, although most of the structures are in ruins. There are gardens, palaces, and temples, and while it's rather compact, it's best explored by bicycle. A bonus, the ruins are inhabited by a large troop of macaque monkeys, also residents of the area since ancient times. Duran Duran fans will recognize the site, as their Save a Prayer video was filmed here in the 1980s.

There's a small, modern town a few miles from the ruins, with guesthouses, bike rentals, cafés, and other tourist services. The town is close to Minneriya National Park, a great place to elephant-watch.

As an island, Sri Lanka is surrounded by beaches, and there really is something for everyone. For a diverse range of beach experiences, head to the Tangalle area. It's in the center of the southern coast of the island and is a popular resort destination.

You''ll find a wide range of beaches, from tropical coves to wide, windswept, seemingly endless stretches of open sand. You can also find beaches with services, vendors, and beachfront stands, as well as remote beaches where you're almost certain to find yourself alone.

At Rekawa Beach , just east of the town, there's a big sea turtle nesting area and conservation center.

This national park and wetland sanctuary, with its dunes, lagoons, and large freshwater bodies of water, is one of the world's best places to visit for bird-watching . There are many species of birds here; some are endemic to Sri Lanka. Many of the birds migrate here seasonally from as far away as Siberia.

Aside from the birds there are many crocodiles, which like to eat the birds, as well as a large population of elephants. The beaches are a popular place for four of Sri Lanka's five species of sea turtles to lay their eggs.

The Bundala park area is along the southern Sri Lankan coastline between Kirinda and Hambantota.

Sometimes it's as much about the journey as it is about the destination. An example of this is Ella, a small, hill-country town set among Sri Lanka's lush tea plantations. It's filled with small guesthouses, amazing food, and very friendly people. It's a fun getaway from the city or a way to enjoy a few days of leisurely hiking in the countryside.

A big reason people visit Ella is to ride the train from Kandy. Slowly, it winds its way up and down hills, through small towns, across green tea fields, until finally arriving in the small mountain town after about six hours. The ride is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world . You can also start the journey in Colombo, which adds three hours to the trip.

Another one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka that's also all about the journey is Adam's Peak. This mountain is topped by a sacred rock formation, and pilgrims traditionally climb to the summit at night in time to watch the sunrise.

The popular hike (which is great for families and children, too) generally takes about three hours, and there are rest stops and food vendors along the path. After the hike, you'll be rewarded by seeing a rock with a footprint-shaped indentation where some believe Adam made his first step. Others believe it's the footprint of Buddha, and some believe it was made by the deity Shiva.

The Adam's Peak hike begins in the village of Nallathanniya in central Sri Lanka. The best times to make the climb are between December and May when the weather is somewhat mild.

Like Machu Picchu or Masada, Sigiriya impresses visitors just with the absurdity of its construction. It's a huge rock formation that's been carved and transformed into a palace. The ruins are near the town of Dambulla in the central part of the country.

Built about 1,500 years ago, the palace complex sits atop a 660-foot (220-meter) rock with sheer walls. Those walls have ancient painted frescoes and carvings transforming the whole structure into a work of art. In the middle of one rock wall, there's a giant gateway carved in the shape of a lion.

Aside from the palace above, the area below is an intricate city complex with gardens and residential and commercial areas. It's a very important surviving example of early city planning from this era.

If you're looking to see elephants in their natural environment, Minneriya National Park near the town of Polonnaruwa , is the best place to go. The lush, protected landscape means the park is a dry-season (May through September) feeding area for the elephants who live in the region's forests. The park is in Sri Lanka's Dry Zone, which sees far less rainfall than the other parts of the island.

Minneriya is a much better option to see elephants than some of the country's elephant orphanages and sanctuaries, which can be tourist traps that mistreat the animals. Various operators offer full- and half-day jeep safaris where you can explore the vast space. You could also visit the park on a day trip from Colombo; it's about three hours away by car.

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

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

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

In This Post

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

The 20 BEST Places To Visit in Sri Lanka

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

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

Pidurangala Rock

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

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

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

Knuckles Mountain Range

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

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

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

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

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

Anuradhapura

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

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

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

Polonnaruwa

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

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

Udawalawe National Park, Yala National Park & Kaudualla National Park

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

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

Dambulla Cave Temple

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adam’s Peak

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

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

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

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

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

Nuwara Eliya

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

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

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

Thank you for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld Travel Blog.

Friday 23rd of April 2021

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

Wednesday 12th of December 2018

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

Hugh Sitton / Stocksy United

Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.

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Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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

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Jaffna Fort

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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…

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Church Street Social

A classy retreat from Galle's steamy streets, this refined air-conditioned hotel restaurant is the perfect setting for a great meal, with the formality of…

Polonnaruwa Ruins

For three centuries Polonnaruwa was a royal capital of both the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms. Today's archaeological park is a delight to explore, with…

Kalpitiya Beach

North of Colombo

Kalpitiya Beach at the northern end of the peninsula consists of a long spit of sand most easily reached by boat across the Kalpitiya lagoon. It's a…

Pettah Floating Market

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Hotel De Pilawoos

Just known as Pilawoos, this open-fronted purveyor of short eats is renowned for what may be the best kotthu (rotti sliced up with cheese and other…

Elephant Transit Home

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Pidurangula

This prominent rock about 1km north of the Sigiriya site, offers amazing views of Sigiriya from its wide summit. It's a 20-minute hike up to the top, past…

Koggala Lake

Next to the road, Koggala Lake is alive with birdlife and dotted with islands, one of which features a Buddhist temple that attracts many visitors on poya…

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…

Hotel Renuka & Renuka City Hotel

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Lankatilaka

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Kaudulla National Park

The Ancient Cities

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Wilpattu National Park

At 1317 sq km, Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest national park. Hidden in the dense, dry woodland, you'll (hopefully) find an array of wildlife that…

Minneriya National Park

This national park is one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers. Dominated by the ancient…

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• 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

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2. Nuwara Eliya – Covered With Lush-Greenery

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

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

3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See The Giant Beasts

Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for wikipedia

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Badulla

4. Polonnaruwa – The Ancient Ruins

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

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

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

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

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

5. Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 19 Reasons To Love Sri Lanka

6. Mirissa – Go Whale Watching

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

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

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

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

7. Yala National Park – Amidst The Wildlife

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Hikkaduwa In April

8. Colombo – Visit The Bustling City

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

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

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

9. Jaffna – Explore The Historical Architecture

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 12 Temples In Sri Lanka

10. Ulpotha – Land Of Ayurveda

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

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

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

11. Trincomalee – The Temple City

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Beach Resorts In Sri Lanka

12. Kandalama – The Surreal Village

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

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

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

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

13. Tissamaharama – Picture Worthy Place

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

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

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

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

14. Anuradhapura – See The Bodhi Tree

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

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

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

15. Horton Plains National Park – Of Lakes And Greenery

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Horton Plains National Park

16. Sinharaja Forest Reserve – Tropical Beauty

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

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

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

17. Udawalawe National Park – With Wild Animals

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 4 Amazing Places To Visit In Udawalawa

18. Tawalantenne – Ideal Road Trip Location

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

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

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

19. Arugam Bay – Pristine Beaches

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 6 Day Trips From Kandy

20. Commonwealth War Cemetery – For The Warriors

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

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

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

21. Unawatuna Beach – Beautiful Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In March

22. Sigiriya Museum – Visit The Historical Place

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

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

23. Perandeniya Botanical Gardens – See The Flowers Blooming

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

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

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

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

24. Dondra Lighthouse – Instagram Worthy

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

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

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

25. Dambulla Cave Temple – Witness The Murals

Image Credit: Lankapic for wikipedia

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

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

Suggested Read: Ramayana Tour In Sri Lanka

26. Old Dutch Fort At Galle – Picturesque Beauty

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

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

27. Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Historical Beauty

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 25 Best Places To Visit In Kandy

28. Beira Lake – The Surreal Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Street Food In Colombo

30. Bentota Beach – Beautiful Sunrise And Blue Waters

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

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

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

31. National Museum Of Colombo – Know The History 

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

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

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

32. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue – Gigantic Architecture 

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

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

33. Nine Arch Bridge – Ride Amidst The Greenery

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

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

Suggested Read: 22 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya

34. Gal Viharaya – Know The Ancient History

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

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

35. Ravana Falls – Explore The Surreal Beauty

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

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

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In June

36. Spice Garden – Add Some Spice To Your Vacay

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

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

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

37. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – For Serenity

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit Near Colombo Airport

38. Ruwanwelisaya – A Sacred Buddhist Site

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Travel Tips

40. International Buddhist Museum – Experience The Spirituality

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Read: International Flights To Resume In Sri Lanka

42. Dehiwala Zoo – Experience The Wilderness

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

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

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

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

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

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

Further Read: Sri Lanka A Must Visit Holiday Destination

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka

How many days are enough to visit Sri Lanka?

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

What is there to do in Sri Lanka in May?

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

Where is the best area to stay in Sri Lanka?

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

What is Sri Lanka known for?

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

What should I buy in Sri Lanka?

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

Is Sri Lanka expensive?

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

Is there Uber in Sri Lanka?

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

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

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

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

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

Which are the best hotels in Colombo?

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

Which are the most famous restaurants in Colombo?

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

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Places to Visit Travel Guide

33 most popular tourist places in sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is home to a variety of tourist attractions, from ancient ruins to stunning beaches. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply relaxation, you are sure to find something to enjoy in Sri Lanka.

Here is a list of some of the 33 most popular Sri Lanka tourist places, along with brief descriptions of attractions, how to reach these places, the best time to visit them, and where to stay.

Quick Links To Explore

1. Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site

Adam’s Peak is one of the most popular Sri Lanka tourist places. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning views, its religious significance, and its challenging climb.

The peak is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is 2,243 meters (7,359 feet) tall. It is believed by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims to be the place where Adam first set foot on Earth. The summit of the peak is marked by a large footprint, which is said to be the footprint of Buddha.

The climb to the summit of Adam’s Peak is a challenging one, but it is also a rewarding one. The views from the top are simply breathtaking. You can see for miles in every direction, and on a clear day, you can even see the Indian Ocean.

Best time to visit Adam’s Peak

The best time to climb Adam’s Peak is during the months of January and May. The weather is cooler during these months, and there are fewer crowds.

How to reach Adam’s Peak

To reach the base of Adam’s Peak, You can take a train from Colombo to Hatton, then a bus or auto to Dalhousie.

Where to stay

There are a few different places to stay near Adam’s Peak. The closest town is Dalhousie, which has a number of hotels and guesthouses. There are also a few campsites in the area.

Tourist attractions near Adam’s Peak

In addition to the summit, there are a few other tourist attractions near Adam’s Peak. The Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is a beautiful area of rainforest and mountains. Laxapana Falls is a 60-meter (200-foot) waterfall that is located near the base of the mountain.

Whether you are interested in its religious significance, its challenging climb, or its stunning views, Adam’s Peak, one of the most popular Sri Lanka tourist places, is a must-visit destination for any visitor to Sri Lanka.

2. Ella – A Picturesque Hill Town in Sri Lanka

Looking for the best Sri Lanka tourist places to visit? Ella is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, its laid-back atmosphere, and its many hiking trails.

It is situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters (3,415 feet) above sea level. Some of the most popular hiking trails in Ella include the Nine Arch Bridge Hike, the Little Adam’s Peak Hike, and the Ravana Ella Falls Hike.

In addition to hiking, there are many other things to do in Ella. You can visit the Ravana Cave, go white water rafting, or take a train ride on the Ella-Kandy Railway.

Ella is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka. The town has a number of hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants to choose from.

Best time to visit Ella

The best time to visit Ella is during the months of March to September, when the weather is dry and sunny.

How to reach Ella

Ella is located about 200 kilometers (120 miles) east of Colombo. You can reach Ella by train, bus, or car.

Where to stay in Ella

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Ella to choose from. Some popular options include the Ella Rock Hotel, the Nine Arch Bridge Hotel, and the Chill Out Inn.

Tourist attractions in Ella

Nine Arch Bridge

Relates reading : Nine Arches Bridge in Ella

Little Adam’s Peak

Related reading : Little Adam’s Peak Mountain Trekking

Ravana Ella Falls

Related reading: Ravana Falls

Ravana Cave

Ella-Kandy Railway

Realated reading: Kandy to Ella Train Journey

3. Dambulla Cave Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Matale District of Sri Lanka. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, and is home to over 1,500 statues of Buddha, as well as paintings depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.

The caves were originally created by natural forces, but were later converted into a temple complex by King Valagamba in the 1st century BC. The temple complex is spread over five caves, which are interconnected by a series of walkways.

The caves are decorated with beautiful murals and statues, dating from the 1st to 18th centuries. The most famous statue in the cave complex is the 14-meter-tall (46 ft) reclining Buddha, which is located in the largest cave.

Dambulla Cave Temple is a one of the popular tourist destination, and is one of the most visited religious sites in Sri Lanka tourist places list. The temple is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entrance fee is 1,500 Sri Lankan rupees (about $5 USD).

Best time to visit Dambulla Cave Temple

The best time to visit Dambulla Cave Temple is during the months of March to September, when the weather is dry and sunny.

How to reach Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple is located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) north of Kandy. You can reach the temple by bus, train, or car.

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Dambulla to choose from. Some popular options include Dambulla Golden Temple Hotel, Dambulla Village Inn, and Dambulla Rest House.

Tourist attractions in Dambulla

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Knuckles Mountain Range
• Minneriya National Park

Related reading: Dambulla Cave Temple Sri Lanka

4. Arugam Bay – A Surfer’s Paradise in Sri Lanka

The list of the best Sri Lanka tourist places is incomplete without the mention of Arugam Bay. It is a small town on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, its laid-back atmosphere, and its world-class surfing. It is one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places.

The bay is located in a sheltered area, which makes it a great place to surf, even during the monsoon season. The waves are known for being consistent and powerful, making Arugam Bay a popular destination for both experienced and beginner surfers.

In addition to surfing, there are many other things to do in Arugam Bay. You can go for a hike in the surrounding hills, visit the local temples, or relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Arugam Bay is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a sought-after destination among Sri Lanka tourist places. The town has a number of hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants to choose from.

Best time to visit Arugam Bay

The best time to visit Arugam Bay is during the months of May to September , when the weather is dry and sunny.

How to reach Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is located about 320 kilometers (200 miles) east of Colombo. You can reach Arugam Bay by bus, train, or car.

Where to stay Arugam Bay

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Arugam Bay to choose from. Some popular options include the Arugam Bay Beach Inn, the Happy Turtle Inn, and the Arugam Bay Surf Resort.

Tourist attractions in Arugam Bay

• Arugam Bay Beach
• Peanut Farm Beach
• Elephant Point
• Kumana National Park

Related reading: Arugam Bay Travel Guide: A Paradise for Beach Lovers

5. Galle – A UNESCO World Heritage City in Sri Lanka

Galle is a city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved 16th-century Dutch fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places.

The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and was later expanded by the Dutch. The fort is surrounded by a moat and is home to a number of churches, mosques, and temples.

Inside the fort, you can find narrow streets, old colonial buildings, and a number of shops and restaurants. There are also a number of forts and museums to visit, including the National Museum of Galle and the Maritime Museum.

Galle is a great place to relax and explore, making it a sought-after destination among Sri Lanka tourist places. The city has a number of beaches, including the Galle Lighthouse Beach and the Dutch Bay Beach. You can also go for a walk along the Galle Fort ramparts or take a boat trip to see the surrounding islands.

Best time to visit Galle

The best time to visit Galle is during the months of March to September, when the weather is dry and sunny.

How to reach Galle

Galle is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Colombo. You can reach Galle by train, bus, or car.

Where to stay in Galle

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Galle to choose from. Some popular options include the Amangalla Hotel, the Galle Fort Hotel, and the The Lighthouse Hotel.

Tourist attractions in Galle

National Museum of Galle

Maritime Museum

Galle Lighthouse Beach

Dutch Bay Beach

6. Nuwara Eliya – A Hill Station in Sri Lanka

The next destination is one of the most beautiful Sri Lanka tourist places and is known as Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is a hill station in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its cool temperatures, its scenic beauty, and its tea plantations.

Nuwara Eliya was founded by the British in the 19th century as a summer retreat. The town is surrounded by mountains, and is at an altitude of 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level.

Nuwara Eliya is one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places and is known for its many attractions, including:

The Blue Mountain Railway

This scenic train journey takes you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Gregory Lake

This beautiful lake is located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, and is a popular spot for boating and fishing.

The Hakgala Botanical Gardens

These gardens are home to a wide variety of tropical plants, and are a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.

The Lovers’ Leap

This viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and is a popular spot for couples.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is during the months of December to March, when the weather is cool and dry.

How to reach Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is located about 190 kilometers (118 miles) northeast of Colombo. You can reach Nuwara Eliya by train, bus, or car.

Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Nuwara Eliya to choose from. Some popular options include the Hill Club, the Queensberry Hotel, and the Grand Hotel.

Related reading: The 12 Best Hotels in Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Our Sri Lanka tour packages offer the perfect way to explore this beautiful island. We have a variety of packages to choose from, so you can find one that fits your interests and budget. We can also create a custom itinerary for you.

7. Anuradhapura – A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka

Another one of the most popular Sri Lanka tourist places is Anuradhapura. It was the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,000 years, from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD.

Anuradhapura is one of the most important archaeological sites in Sri Lanka, and is home to a number of well-preserved ruins, including:

Jaya Sri Mahabodhi Temple

This is the oldest Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, and is said to have been built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC.

The Ruwanwelisaya

This is the largest stupa in Sri Lanka, and was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC.

Read more: Tour to Ruwanweliseya Stupa

The Jetavana Monastery

This was once the largest monastery in the world, and is now home to a number of ruins, including a large pond and a number of caves.

Read more: Jetavanaramaya Stupa: The Wonder of Ancient Sri Lanka

The Thuparama

This is the oldest stupa in Anuradhapura, and was built by King Asoka in the 3rd century BC.

Anuradhapura is a popular tourist destination, and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka. The city is also home to a number of temples, monasteries, and museums.

Best time to visit Anuradhapura

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is during the months of January to March, when the weather is cool and dry.

How to reach Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is located about 212 kilometers (132 miles) north of Colombo. You can reach Anuradhapura by train, bus, or car.

Where to stay in ANuradhapura

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Anuradhapura to choose from. Some popular options include the Anuradhapura Hotel, the Jetwing Hotel, and the Tamarind Tree Hotel.

8. Tissamaharama: A Photographer’s Paradise

Tissamaharama is a town in the Hambantota District of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. It is located on the east coast of the island, about 88 kilometers (55 miles) from Ella. The town has a population of about 100,000 people.

It is one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places on our list, known for its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and numerous historical sites. The town is also home to several temples, mosques, and churches.

For Photography Enthusiasts

Tissamaharama is a great place for photography enthusiasts. The town has stunning scenery, including the Tissa Wewa Lake, a large artificial lake that is home to a variety of birds.

There are also a number of stupas in the area, including the Yatala Vehera Stupa, which is one of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

Best Time to Visit Tissamaharama

The best time to visit Tissamaharama is during the winter (December-February), when the weather is warm and sunny. The monsoon season runs from May to September, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time.

How to reach Tissamaharama

Tissamaharama is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. There are buses from Ella, Matara, and Galle to Tissa. The town is also served by a train station and an airport.

Where to stay in Tissamaharama

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Tissamaharama to choose from. Some popular options include the Tissamaharama Resort, the Hotel Tamarind Tree, and the Yatala Lakeside Resort.

Tourist Attractions in Tissamaharama

In addition to the Tissa Wewa Lake and the Yatala Vehera Stupa, other popular tourist attractions in Tissamaharama include:

• The Yala National Park, a wildlife sanctuary home to a variety of animals, including elephants, water buffalo, and crocodiles.
• The Kataragama Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Kataragama.
• The Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihar, a Buddhist temple complex that is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka.

9. Yala National Park: A Safari Destination with a Variety of Wildlife and Birds

Yala National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, in the Hambantota District. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, water buffalo, crocodiles, and over 200 species of birds.

Yala National Park is a one of the best tourist places in Sri Lanka , and is open to visitors year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

There are a number of things to do in Yala National Park, including:

Game drives

Game drives are the most popular way to see the wildlife in Yala National Park. You can go on a game drive by jeep, van, or even on foot.

Bird watching

Yala National Park is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a great place for bird watching.

There are a number of hiking trails in Yala National Park, ranging from easy to challenging.

You can also camp in Yala National Park, if you want to experience the park overnight.

Yala National Park is a great place to see the wildlife of Sri Lanka. If you are a nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, you should definitely visit Yala National Park.

Here are some tips for visiting Yala National Park:

• Book your game drive in advance: Game drives are very popular in Yala National Park, so it is important to book yours in advance. You can book your game drive through a tour operator or directly with the park.
• Dress appropriately: Make sure to dress appropriately for a game drive, which means wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat. You may also want to bring insect repellent.
• Bring water and snacks: It is important to bring water and snacks with you on your game drive, as there are no restaurants or shops inside the park.
• Be respectful of the wildlife: Remember that you are visiting the animals’ home, so be respectful of them and their space. Do not get too close to the animals, and do not feed them.

10. Horton Plains National Park – A Natural Wonder of Sri Lanka

Horton Plains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The park is known for its stunning scenery, including the World’s End, a sheer cliff that drops over 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) to the plains below.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, water buffalo, and over 200 species of birds. Horton Plains is one of the best Sri Lanka tourist places.

A Hike to Remember

The most popular activity in Horton Plains National Park is hiking. The most popular hike is to the World’s End, which is a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) round-trip hike that takes about 4 hours to complete. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and the views from the top of the World’s End are simply stunning.

Other Attractions

In addition to the World’s End, there are a number of other attractions in Horton Plains National Park, including:

• Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall that plunges over 200 meters (660 feet)
• The Knuckles Mountain Range, a stunning mountain range that is home to a variety of wildlife
• The Far Inn Hunting Lodge, a former hunting lodge that now serves as a cafe and visitor center
• The Horton Plains Visitor Centre, which has exhibits on the park’s history and ecology

Best Time to Visit Horton Plains

The best time to visit Horton Plains National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, the park is open year-round.

How to Reach Horton Plains

Horton Plains National Park is easily accessible by road from Nuwara Eliya. There are also buses and jeeps that can take you to the park.

Where to Stay near Horton Plains

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and campsites in Nuwara Eliya that offer easy access to Horton Plains National Park.

Tourist Attractions in Horton Plains

In addition to the World’s End, other popular tourist attractions in the area include:

• Hakgala Botanical Gardens, a beautiful garden with a wide variety of plants
• Bambarakanda Falls, the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka
• Ohiya, a charming town with a colonial past

Related reading: Horton Plains National Park

11. Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the south-west of Sri Lanka. It is one of the last remaining areas of lowland rainforest in Sri Lanka, and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

The forest is a popular Sri Lankan tourist destination for eco-tourism, and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

The Rainforest

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a lowland rainforest, which means that it is located at a low altitude and receives a lot of rainfall. The forest is home to a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, and ferns. Some of the most common trees in the forest include the jak tree, the teak tree, and the ebony tree.

The forest is also home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, monkeys, and birds. Some of the most common birds in the forest include the blue magpie, the Sri Lanka junglefowl, and the purple-faced langur.

Eco-Tourism

There are a number of different ways to experience the forest, including hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the forest. There are a number of different trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. Bird watching is another popular activity in the forest.

There are over 400 species of birds in the forest, making it a great place to see a variety of birds. Wildlife viewing is also possible in the forest. Elephants, leopards and monkeys are all commonly seen in the forest.

Best Time to Visit Sinharaja

The best time to visit Sinharaja Forest Reserve is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, the forest is open year-round.

How to Reach SInharaja

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is located in the south-west of Sri Lanka. The nearest town is Ratnapura, which is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the reserve. There are buses and jeeps that can take you to the reserve from Ratnapura.

Where to Stay in Sinharaja

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and campsites in Ratnapura and the surrounding area that offer easy access to Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

12. Unawatuna Beach: A Tropical Paradise

Unawatuna Beach is a beautiful beach located in the south-west of Sri Lanka. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its white sand, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

The beach, one of the Sri Lanka tourist places, is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also a number of activities available, such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling.

Unawatuna Beach is a long, sandy beach with clear, blue waters. The beach is lined with palm trees and casuarina trees, which provide shade and a relaxing atmosphere.

The water is calm and shallow, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. There are also a number of surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all levels.

Related reading: Unawatuna Beach, Galle, Sri Lanka

The Surrounding Area

Unawatuna Beach is located in a beautiful area. The surrounding area is dotted with fishing villages, temples, and coconut groves. There are also a number of hills and cliffs that offer stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area.

Things to Do in Unawatuna

In addition to swimming and snorkeling, there are a number of other things to do in Unawatuna Beach. These include:

• Surfing: There are a number of surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all levels.
• Stand-up paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore the beach and the surrounding area.
• Boat tours: There are a number of boat tours that offer the opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
• Visit the local villages: There are a number of fishing villages in the area that are worth visiting.
• Hike to the top of the cliffs: The cliffs that surround Unawatuna Beach offer stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area.

Best Time to Visit Unawatuna

The best time to visit Unawatuna Beach is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. However, the beach is open year-round.

How to Reach Unawatuna

Unawatuna Beach is located in the south-west of Sri Lanka. The nearest town is Galle, which is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the beach. There are buses and trains that can take you to Galle from Colombo. From Galle, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Unawatuna Beach.

Related reading: Galle Dutch Fort Tour

Where to Stay Unawatuna

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Unawatuna Beach to choose from. Some popular options include the Unawatuna Bay Hotel, the Jetwing Sea Breeze, and the Amaya Beach.

Pro tip: 12 Budget Hotels in Unawatuna, Galle

13. Temple of the Tooth: A Sacred Buddhist Shrine

The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is a Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world, as it houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.

The temple was built in the 15th century by King Parakramabahu VI. The tooth relic is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka from India in the 4th century by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha, the children of King Ashoka.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world. The relic is only displayed to the public on special occasions, such as on Vesak Day, the Buddha’s birthday.

The temple is a beautiful example of Sri Lankan architecture. It is a complex of buildings, including the main shrine, a library, and a museum. The main shrine is a large, gold-plated dagoba (stupa) that houses the tooth relic.

The temple, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka tourist places, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism or Sri Lankan culture.

Best Time to Visit Temple of the Tooth

The best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, the temple is open year-round.

How to Reach Temple of the Tooth

The Temple of the Tooth is located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The nearest airport is the Bandaranaike International Airport, which is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Kandy. There are buses and trains that can take you to Kandy from Colombo. From Kandy, you can walk to the temple or take a tuk-tuk.

Where to Stay

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Kandy to choose from. Some popular options include the Kandy Lake Hotel, the Jetwing Lakeside, and the Amangalla.

More information : Temple of Tooth Kandy

14. Gal Viharaya: A Rock Temple of Stunning Sculpture

Gal Viharaya is a rock temple located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Sri Lanka , and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temple was built in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I. It is made up of four large statues of Buddha, carved out of a single granite rock. The statues are seated in the bhumisparsha mudra, which is a gesture of touching the earth.

The Largest Statue

The largest statue is 18 meters (60 feet) tall, and is the largest standing Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. It is known as the Mahachaitya. The statue is carved in a very realistic style, and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Sri Lankan sculpture.

The Other Statues

The other three statues are 12 meters (40 feet), 10 meters (33 feet), and 8 meters (26 feet) tall. They are known as the Gal Viharaya Buddhas. The statues are carved in a variety of poses, including seated, reclining, and standing.

The Setting

The temple is located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by lush vegetation. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, and it is a great place to relax and meditate.

How to Visit Gal Viharaya

Gal Viharaya is open to the public, and there is no admission fee. The temple is located in Polonnaruwa, which is about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Polonnaruwa from Colombo. From Polonnaruwa, you can walk to the temple or take a tuk-tuk.

Read more >> Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa

15. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: A Home for the Needy

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a 25-acre (10-hectare) wildlife sanctuary located in Kegalle District, Sri Lanka. It is home to over 60 elephants, including orphaned baby elephants, injured elephants, and those who have been rescued from the wild.

The orphanage was founded in 1975 by the Sri Lankan Department of Wildlife Conservation. The goal of the orphanage is to provide a safe and loving home for elephants who cannot survive in the wild.

The elephants at Pinnawala are cared for by a dedicated team of mahouts (elephant keepers). The mahouts feed the elephants, bathe them, and train them. They also provide the elephants with medical care.

The elephants at Pinnawala, one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places, are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can watch the elephants being fed and bathed, and they can also take a ride on an elephant. The proceeds from tourism help to support the orphanage.

How to Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm daily. The entrance fee is 1,500 Sri Lankan rupees (about $5 USD) for adults and 750 Sri Lankan rupees (about $2.5 USD) for children.

The orphanage is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Pinnawala from Colombo. From Pinnawala, you can walk to the orphanage or take a tuk-tuk.

Read more about: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

16. Mirissa Whale Watching: A Chance to See the Giants of the Ocean

Mirissa is a small town on the south coast of Sri Lanka, which is one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places, famous for whale watching.

The best time to go whale watching in Mirissa , one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places, is during the months of December to April when the waters are calm and the whales are more active.

The most common whales seen in Mirissa are the blue whale, the sperm whale, and the humpback whale. Blue whales are the largest animals on Earth, and they can grow up to 100 feet long.

Sperm whales are the largest predators on Earth, and they can grow up to 60 feet long. Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic displays, and they can breach the water up to 40 feet high.

Whale watching tours in Mirissa typically depart in the morning and last for about 3 hours. The boats travel out to sea where the whales are most likely to be found.

Once a whale is spotted, the boat will slowly approach it so that you can get a good view.

Whale watching is a great way to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. It is also a great way to learn about whales and their importance to the ocean ecosystem.

Here are some tips for whale watching in Mirissa:

• Go during the months of December to April when the waters are calm and the whales are more active.
• Choose a reputable tour operator that has a good safety record.
• Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens so you can get a better view of the whales.
• Be respectful of the whales and do not get too close to them.

17. Trincomalee: A Historical and Religious City

Trincomalee is a city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, which is one of the most beautiful Sri Lanka tourist places. It is a major port city and a popular tourist destination, boasting a long and rich history. Trincomalee was once an important port for the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka and also served as a significant center during the Portuguese and Dutch colonial rule.

Trincomalee is home to a number of important religious sites, including the Koneswaram Temple, one of the five Iswarams (temples dedicated to Shiva) in Sri Lanka. The Koneswaram Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Trincomalee is also a popular destination for whale watching and other water sports. The city is located on a beautiful bay, and the surrounding waters are home to a variety of marine life.

Comprehensive Guide to the Best Water Sports in Sri Lanka

Things to Do in Trincomalee

• Visit the Koneswaram Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka.
• Go whale watching: Trincomalee is a great place to go whale watching. The best time to go is during the months of December to April.
• Visit the Dutch Fort: This 17th-century fort is a popular tourist destination. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area.
• Relax on the beach: Trincomalee has a number of beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and swimming.
• Visit the National Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Sri Lanka’s history.

How to Get to Trincomalee

Trincomalee is located about 250 kilometers (155 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Trincomalee from Colombo. There is also an airport in Trincomalee, but it only serves a limited number of flights.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Trincomalee to choose from. Some popular options include the Trincomalee Bay Hotel, the Hotel Lighthouse, and the Amaya Lake.

Related reading: Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee

18. Colombo: The Commercial Capital of Sri Lanka

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and is the country’s commercial capital. It is located on the west coast of the island, and is a major port city.

Colombo has a long and rich history. It was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kotte, and was later ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.

Today, Colombo is a modern city with a mix of old and new. The city is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Galle Face Green , the Old Fort, and the National Museum.

Colombo is also a major shopping destination. The city has a number of malls, boutiques, and markets. Colombo is also a one of the most popular Sri Lankan tourist places, and is home to a number of hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Things to Do in Colombo

• Visit the Galle Face Green: This waterfront park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Explore the Old Fort: This 16th-century fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Go shopping: Colombo has a number of malls, boutiques, and markets.
• Visit the Vihara Maha Devi Temple: This Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in Colombo.
• Take a walk through Pettah: This bustling market is a great place to experience the local culture.
• Relax on the beach: Colombo has a number of beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

Read more : Exploring the 16 Best Tourist Places in Colombo

How to Reach Colombo

Colombo is the main international gateway to Sri Lanka. There are a number of airlines that fly to Colombo, including SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.

Where to Stay in Colombo

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Colombo to choose from. Some popular options include the Shangri-La Hotel, the Cinnamon Grand, and the Taj Samudra.

19. Udawalawe National Park: A Home to Elephants

Udawalawe National Park is a national park in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Central Province, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Colombo. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, water buffalo, deer, monkeys, and crocodiles.

Udawalawe National Park was established in 1972. The park is named after the Udawalawe Reservoir, which is located in the park. The reservoir is a major source of water for the park and for the surrounding area.

The park is a on of the popular Sri Lankan tourist places, and is especially popular for elephant watching. Elephants are the most common animal in the park, and there are over 500 elephants that live in the park.

Things to Do in Udawalawe National Park

• Elephant watching: This is the most popular activity in Udawalawe National Park. Elephants are the most common animal in the park, and there are over 500 elephants that live in the park.
• Bird watching: Udawalawe National Park is home to over 200 species of birds. Some of the most common birds in the park include storks, eagles, and pelicans.
• Boating: You can take a boat ride on the Udawalawe Reservoir. This is a great way to see the wildlife in the park, including elephants, crocodiles, and birds.
• Hiking: There are a number of hiking trails in Udawalawe National Park. These trails offer stunning views of the park and the surrounding area.

How to Get to Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Udawalawe National Park from Colombo.

Where to Stay in Udawalawe National Park

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Udawalawe National Park to choose from. Some popular options include the Udawalawe Safari Lodge, the Udawalawe Elephant Camp, and the Udawalawe Lake Hotel.

Read more: Udawalawe National Park

20. Peradeniya Botanical Garden: A Tropical Haven

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a botanical garden in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Kandy district, about 6 kilometers (4 miles) from the city of Kandy.

The garden is one of the most popular tourist places in Sri Lanka, and is known for its beautiful gardens, its large collection of plants, and its historical significance.

Peradeniya Botanical Garden was founded in 1821 by the British colonial government. The garden was originally used as a research station for the study of tropical plants. However, it was soon opened to the public and became a popular tourist destination.

The garden is home to a large collection of plants from all over the world. There are over 10,000 different species of plants in the garden, including orchids, cacti, ferns, and trees. The garden also has a number of historical buildings, including the Queen’s Cottage, which was built in 1867 for Queen Victoria’s visit to Sri Lanka.

Things to Do in Peradeniya Botanical Garden

• Explore the gardens: The gardens are a beautiful place to walk around and explore. There are a number of different paths to choose from, and you can easily spend a few hours wandering around the gardens.
• Visit the orchid house: The orchid house is home to a large collection of orchids. There are over 1,000 different species of orchids in the house, and it is a great place to see these beautiful flowers.
• Visit the cacti and succulent garden: The cacti and succulent garden is home to a large collection of cacti and succulents. There are over 1,000 different species of cacti and succulents in the garden, and it is a great place to see these unique plants.
• Visit the Palm Grove: The Palm Grove is home to a large collection of palm trees. There are over 100 different species of palm trees in the grove, and it is a great place to see these majestic trees.

How to Reach Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is located about 6 kilometers (4 miles) from the city of Kandy. There are buses and trains that can take you to Peradeniya Botanical Garden from Kandy.

Where to Stay in Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Suggested reading: Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden

21. Bentota Beach: A Serene Coastal Escape

Bentota Beach is a beach located in Sri Lanka. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful white sand, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

The beach is located in the south-west of Sri Lanka, about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Colombo. It is a long, sandy beach with clear, blue waters. The beach is backed by palm trees and casuarina trees, which provide shade and a relaxing atmosphere.

Bentota Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. There are a number of hotels, resorts, and restaurants located along the beach, making it a great place to stay.

Things to Do in Bentota Beach

• Swimming: The clear waters of Bentota Beach are perfect for swimming. The beach is also a great place to go for a swim early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is not as hot.
• Sunbathing: The white sand of Bentota Beach is perfect for sunbathing. You can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or you can rent a beach chair and umbrella.
• Water sports: There are a number of water sports that you can enjoy in Bentota Beach, including surfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing. There are also a number of boat tours that you can take, which will allow you to explore the surrounding area.
• Visit the Bentota River: The Bentota River is located near Bentota Beach. You can take a boat ride on the river, or you can go for a walk along the riverbank. The river is a great place to see wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and birds.
• Visit the Bentota Lighthouse: The Bentota Lighthouse is located at the southern end of Bentota Beach. It is a short walk from the beach, and it offers stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area.

How to Reach Bentota

Bentota Beach is located about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Bentota Beach from Colombo. There are also a number of taxis and tuk-tuks that can take you to the beach.

Where to Stay in Bentota

There are a number of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses located in Bentota Beach. Some popular options include the Cinnamon Bentota Beach, the Jetwing Sea Breeze, and the The Amangalla.

22. Jaffna: A Cultural and Historical Gem

Jaffna is a city in northern Sri Lanka. It is the capital of the Northern Province and is the largest city in the north of the country. Jaffna is a major cultural and historical center, and is home to a number of important temples, mosques, and churches.

The city was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century and was later ruled by the Dutch and the British. Jaffna has a rich history and culture, and is a popular tourist destination.

Things to Do in Jaffna

Visit the Jaffna Fort

The Jaffna Fort is a 16th-century fort that is one of the most important historical sites in Sri Lanka. The fort is located in the heart of Jaffna and is a popular tourist destination.

Explore the Jaffna temples

Jaffna is home to a number of important temples, including the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, the Thiruketheeswaram Temple, and the Vallipuram Sivan Temple. These temples are all worth visiting and offer a glimpse into the rich Hindu culture of Jaffna.

Visit the Jaffna mosques

Jaffna is also home to a number of important mosques, including the Grand Mosque of Jaffna and the Keerimalai Mosque. These mosques are all worth visiting and offer a glimpse into the rich Muslim culture of Jaffna.

Visit the Jaffna churches

Jaffna is also home to a number of important churches, including the St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady of Madhu. These churches are all worth visiting and offer a glimpse into the rich Christian culture of Jaffna.

Learn about Jaffna’s history

There are a number of museums in Jaffna that offer insights into the city’s rich history. These museums include the Jaffna Museum, the Jaffna Public Library, and the Jaffna Kachcheri.

Enjoy the local food

Jaffna is home to a number of delicious restaurants that serve traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local favorites, such as string hoppers, kottu roti, and lamprais.

How to Reach Jaffna

Jaffna is located about 400 kilometers (250 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Jaffna from Colombo. There are also a number of flights that operate from Colombo to Jaffna.

Where to Stay in Jaffna

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located in Jaffna. Some popular options include the Jaffna Fort Hotel, the Lighthouse Hotel, and the Jetwing Jaffna.

23. Hiriketiya Beach: A Hidden Gem in Sri Lanka

Hiriketiya Beach is a beach located in Sri Lanka. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful white sand, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

The beach is located in the south-west of Sri Lanka, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Colombo. It is a long, sandy beach with clear, blue waters. The beach is backed by palm trees and casuarina trees, which provide shade and a relaxing atmosphere.

Hiriketiya Beach is a popular destination for surfing, as it is known for its consistent waves. The beach is also a great place to go for a swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Things to Do in Hiriketiya Beach

Surfing : Hiriketiya Beach is a popular destination for surfing, as it is known for its consistent waves. There are a number of surf schools and camps located in Hiriketiya Beach, which offer lessons for all levels of surfers.

Swimming: The clear waters of Hiriketiya Beach are perfect for swimming. The beach is also a great place to go for a swim early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is not as hot.

Sunbathing: The white sand of Hiriketiya Beach is perfect for sunbathing. You can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or you can rent a beach chair and umbrella.

Visit the Hiriketiya Lighthouse: The Hiriketiya Lighthouse is located at the southern end of Hiriketiya Beach. It is a short walk from the beach, and it offers stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area.

Go on a boat tour: There are a number of boat tours that you can take from Hiriketiya Beach. These tours will allow you to explore the surrounding area, including the mangroves, the lagoon, and the nearby islands.

How to Reach Hiriketiya Beach

Hiriketiya Beach is located about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Hiriketiya Beach from Colombo. There are also a number of taxis and tuk-tuks that can take you to the beach.

Where to Stay in Hiriketiya

There are a number of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses located in Hiriketiya Beach. Some popular options include the Hiriketiya Beach Resort, the Hiriketiya Bay Hotel, and the Hiriketiya Surf Inn.

24. Sigiriya Lion Rock: A Majestic Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Lion Rock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sri Lanka. It is a massive rock that rises 200 meters (660 feet) above the surrounding plains. The rock is topped by the ruins of a palace and a fortress that were built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD.

The rock is named after the lion’s head that was carved into the side of the rock. The lion’s head was destroyed by an earthquake in the 14th century, but the ruins of the palace and the fortress remain.

Sigiriya Lion Rock is a one of the popular tourist places in Sri Lanka. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the rock and explore the ruins of the palace and the fortress. The views from the top of the rock are spectacular.

Things to Do in Sigiriya

Climb the Lion’s Rock: This is the most popular activity in Sigiriya. The climb is challenging, but the views from the top are worth it.

Explore the ruins of the palace and the fortress: The ruins of the palace and the fortress are fascinating. You can wander around the ruins and imagine what life was like in the 5th century AD.

Visit the Mirror Wall: The Mirror Wall is a polished slab of rock that was used by the king to admire himself. The wall is still in good condition and is a popular spot for taking photos.

Visit the gardens: The gardens at Sigiriya are beautiful. There are fountains, ponds, and walkways that wind through the gardens.

How to Get to Sigiriya Lion Rock

Sigiriya Lion Rock is located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Sigiriya Lion Rock from Colombo. There are also a number of taxis and tuk-tuks that can take you to the rock.

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located in Sigiriya. Some popular options include the Sigiriya Hotel, the Kandalama Hotel, and the Heritance Kandalama.

Suggested reading: Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress

25. Pigeon Island National Park: A Marine Park in Sri Lanka

Pigeon Island National Park is a marine park located in Sri Lanka. It is a small island off the coast of Nilaveli, in the Eastern Province. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and turtles.

The island is named after the large number of pigeons that live there. The pigeons are a popular tourist attraction, and you can often see them flying around the island.

Pigeon Island National Park is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters and the abundance of marine life make it a great place to explore the underwater world.

Things to Do in Pigeon Island National Park

Snorkeling and diving : The clear waters and the abundance of marine life make Pigeon Island National Park a great place to snorkel and dive.

Visit the pigeon colony: The island is home to a large colony of pigeons. You can often see them flying around the island or perched on the trees.

Go for a walk on the beach: The beach at Pigeon Island National Park is beautiful. You can go for a walk on the beach, swim in the sea, or sunbathe.

Visit the lighthouse: There is a lighthouse on the island. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the surrounding area.

How to Reach Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island National Park is located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Nilaveli. There are boats that can take you to the island from Nilaveli.

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located in Nilaveli. Some popular options include the Jetwing Sea Breeze, the Nilaveli Beach Hotel, and the Pigeon Island Beach Resort.

26. Nine Arch Bridge: A Beautiful Railway Bridge in Sri Lanka

Nine Arch Bridge is a railway bridge located in Sri Lanka. It is a beautiful viaduct that spans the Kelani River. The bridge was built in 1921 and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka.

The bridge is made of concrete and is 91 meters (300 feet) long. It has nine arches that are supported by pillars. The bridge is located in the Knuckles Mountain Range and is a popular tourist destination.

The bridge is a popular spot for photographers. The bridge is especially beautiful when it is lit up at night.

Things to Do near Nine Arch Bridge

Visit the Demodara Railway Station: The Demodara Railway Station is located near the Nine Arch Bridge. The station is a beautiful old station that is worth visiting.

Go for a walk on the bridge: You can walk on the bridge and enjoy the views of the Kelani River.

Take a train ride: You can take a train ride across the bridge. This is a great way to see the bridge and the surrounding area.

Visit the Knuckles Mountain Range: The Knuckles Mountain Range is a beautiful mountain range that is located near the Nine Arch Bridge. You can go for hikes in the mountains or visit the waterfalls.

How to Get to Nine Arch Bridge

Nine Arch Bridge is located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to Nine Arch Bridge from Colombo. There are also a number of taxis and tuk-tuks that can take you to the bridge.

Where to Stay near Nine Arch Bridge

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near Nine Arch Bridge. Some popular options include the Ella Flower Garden Hotel, the Nine Arch Bridge Hotel, and the Ella Rock Hotel.

27. Spice Garden: A Tropical Paradise of Flavor

A spice garden is a garden where spices are grown. Spices are the dried fruits, seeds, bark, or roots of plants that are used to flavor food.

Sri Lanka is known for its spices, and there are many spice gardens located in the country. These gardens are a great place to learn about spices and how they are grown.

Things to Do in a Spice Garden

Learn about spices: You can learn about the different types of spices, how they are grown, and how they are used.

See how spices are processed: You can see how spices are harvested, dried, and processed.

Taste spices: You can taste different spices and learn about their flavors.

Buy spices: You can buy spices to take home with you.

How to Get to a Spice Garden

There are many spice gardens located in Sri Lanka. Some of the most popular spice gardens include the Spice Garden in Matale, the New Ranweli Spice Garden in Kandy, and the Spice Garden in Galle.

Where to Stay near a Spice Garden

There are many hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near spice gardens. Some popular options include the Matale Hotel, the Kandy Lake Hotel, and the Galle Fort Hotel.

Related reading: Herbs and Spices of Sri Lanka

28. Turtle Hatchery: A Place to Help Protect Sea Turtles

A turtle hatchery is a place where sea turtle eggs are protected and hatched. Sea turtles are an important part of the marine ecosystem, but they are also threatened by many factors, including habitat loss, pollution, and poaching. Turtle hatcheries play an important role in helping to protect sea turtles by providing a safe place for their eggs to hatch and hatchlings to grow.

There are many turtle hatcheries located in Sri Lanka. These hatcheries help to protect a variety of sea turtle species, including the green sea turtle, the hawksbill turtle, and the olive ridley turtle.

Things to Do at a Turtle Hatchery

Learn about sea turtles: You can learn about the different species of sea turtles, their life cycles, and the threats they face.

See sea turtle eggs: You can see sea turtle eggs in their nests and learn about the hatching process.

Help release hatchlings: You can help to release hatchlings into the ocean. This is a great way to give back to the environment and help to protect sea turtles.

How to Get to a Turtle Hatchery

There are many turtle hatcheries located in Sri Lanka. Some of the most popular hatcheries include the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery, and the Pinnawela Turtle Hatchery.

Where to Stay near a Turtle Hatchery

There are many hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near turtle hatcheries. Some popular options include the Kosgoda Beach Hotel, the Hikkaduwa Beach Hotel, and the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.

29. St. Anthony’s Church: A Shrine of Miracles

St. Anthony’s Church is a Catholic church located in Kochchikade, Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world.

The church was built in 1889 by the Portuguese. It is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, who is known for his miracles. The church is said to be a place of miracles, and many people come to pray for Saint Anthony’s intercession.

The church is a beautiful building, with a large dome and a bell tower. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful stained glass windows and paintings.

Things to Do at St. Anthony’s Church

Pray for Saint Anthony’s intercession

Many people come to St. Anthony’s Church to pray for Saint Anthony’s intercession. There is a statue of Saint Anthony in the church, and people often touch the statue or leave offerings.

Visit the shrine

There is a shrine dedicated to Saint Anthony in the church. The shrine is a place where people can pray and leave offerings.

Attend a mass

There are masses held at St. Anthony’s Church every day. These masses are a great way to experience the Catholic faith and to pray for Saint Anthony’s intercession.

Take a tour of the church

There are tours of St. Anthony’s Church available. These tours are a great way to learn about the history of the church and to see the beautiful architecture. How to Get to St. Anthony’s Church

St. Anthony’s Church is located in Kochchikade, Colombo. It is a short walk from the Fort Station. There are also buses and tuk-tuks that can take you to the church.

Where to Stay near St. Anthony’s Church

There are many hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near St. Anthony’s Church. Some popular options include the Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, the Jetwing Hotel Colombo, and the St. Regis Colombo.

30. Wilpattu National Park: The Land of the Leopards

Wilpattu National Park, located in Sri Lanka, is one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places. It is the largest national park in the country and is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Wilpattu National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and water buffalo.

The park is named after the “willus” or tanks that are found in the park. The willus are natural lakes that are filled with rainwater. The park is also home to a variety of vegetation, including grasslands, forests, and swamps.

Things to Do in Wilpattu National Park

Spotting leopards

Wilpattu National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot leopards. The park has a high density of leopards and you have a good chance of seeing them on a safari.

The best way to see the wildlife in Wilpattu National Park is to go on a safari. There are a number of safari companies that operate in the park and they will take you to the best spots to see the animals.

Birdwatching

Wilpattu National Park is also a great place for birdwatching. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including eagles, hawks, owls, and kingfishers.

There are a number of hiking trails in Wilpattu National Park. These trails offer stunning views of the park and the surrounding area.

How to Get to Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is located in the north-west of Sri Lanka. It is about 300 kilometers from Colombo. There are buses and trains that can take you to the park. There are also a number of taxis and tuk-tuks that can take you to the park.

Where to Stay near Wilpattu National Park

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near Wilpattu National Park. Some popular options include the Wilpattu Eco Camp, the Wilpattu Safari Camp, and the Wilpattu Village Resort.

31. Pidurangala Rock Hike: A Breathtaking View of Sigiriya

Pidurangala Rock is a rock located near Sigiriya Rock in Sri Lanka. It is a one of the popular Sri Lanka tourist places, as it offers stunning views of Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding area.

The rock is about 1,500 feet (457 meters) high and can be reached by a 500-step staircase. The climb is challenging, but the views from the top are worth it.

At the top of the rock, there are ruins of a Buddhist monastery that was built in the 5th century AD. There are also caves that were used by monks as meditation chambers.

Things to Do in Pidurangala

Climb the rock: The most popular activity in Pidurangala Rock is to climb the rock. The climb is challenging, but the views from the top are worth it.

Visit the ruins of the Buddhist monastery: At the top of the rock, there are ruins of a Buddhist monastery that was built in the 5th century AD. These ruins are a great place to learn about the history of the rock and the Buddhist religion.

Visit the caves: There are also caves at the top of the rock that were used by monks as meditation chambers. These caves are a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Watch the sunrise or sunset: The views from the top of Pidurangala Rock are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. This is a great time to visit the rock if you want to see the stunning views and capture some amazing photos.

How to Get to Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala Rock is located about 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from Sigiriya Rock. There are buses and tuk-tuks that can take you to Pidurangala Rock from Sigiriya.

Where to Stay near Pidurangala Rock

There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near Pidurangala Rock. Some popular options include the Sigiriya Hotel, the Kandalama Hotel, and the Heritance Kandalama.

32. Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya: A Majestic Waterfall in Sri Lanka

Bambarakanda Falls is a waterfall located near Ohiya in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, with a height of 240 meters (790 feet).

Bambarakanda Falls is formed by the Bambarakanda River. The Bambarakanda River flows down from the mountains of the Central Highlands and becomes a waterfall at Bambarakanda Falls, before flowing into the Bay of Matara.

Bambarakanda Falls is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. However, it is especially beautiful during the monsoon season, from July to September, when the water levels are highest and the falls are at their most majestic.

To reach Bambarakanda Falls, you can drive from Ohiya for about 30 minutes. There is a car park near the falls, as well as restaurants and souvenir shops.

Bambarakanda Falls is a must-see for any visitor to Sri Lanka. The sheer scale of the falls is awe-inspiring, and the beauty of the surrounding scenery is simply stunning.

Here are some tips for visiting Bambarakanda Falls:

• The best time to visit is during the monsoon season, from July to September. However, this is also the wettest time of year, so be prepared for rain.
• The falls are located at a high altitude, so be sure to dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes.
• The falls can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

33. Polonnaruwa Sacred City: Unveiling Sri Lanka’s Glorious Past

Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura. It was founded in the 11th century by King Vijayabahu I, and it remained the capital of Sri Lanka until the 13th century.

Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka . The ruins of the ancient city are spread out over a large area, and they include palaces, temples, and monasteries.

Some of the most popular attractions in Polonnaruwa include:

The Lion’s Gate

The Lion’s Gate is the entrance to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It is a beautiful archway that is decorated with sculptures of lions.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace was the home of the kings of Polonnaruwa. It is a large complex of ruins that includes palaces, temples, and gardens.

The Lankatilaka Temple

The Lankatilaka Temple is a Buddhist temple that was built in the 12th century. It is one of the most important temples in Sri Lanka, and it is known for its beautiful architecture.

The Gal Vihara

The Gal Vihara is a complex of three rock temples that were carved out of a single rock. It is one of the most impressive monuments in Polonnaruwa, and it is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

Polonnaruwa is a fascinating place to visit, and it is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka. The ruins of the ancient city are a testament to the power and wealth of the Sinhalese kings, and they are a reminder of the rich history of Sri Lanka.

Here are some tips for visiting Polonnaruwa:

• The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is during the dry season, from December to April.
• The ruins of Polonnaruwa are spread out over a large area, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• There are many different things to see in Polonnaruwa, so be sure to plan your time accordingly.
• There are a number of hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Polonnaruwa, so you will be able to find accommodation to suit your budget.

Related reading: Polonnaruwa Ancient City

33 Most Popular Sri Lanka Tourist Places

These places offer a wide variety of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking in the mountains to relaxing on the beach. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Sri Lanka or a returning traveler, these places are sure to amaze and inspire you.

What is the visa requirement for visiting Sri Lanka?

Citizens of most countries need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. You can apply for a visa online or at the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your home country.

What is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka?

The best time of year to visit Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which is from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.

Suggested reading: Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka – A Comprehensive Guide

What are some other activities that can be enjoyed in Sri Lanka besides the popular tourist places?

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. In addition to the popular tourist places, some other popular activities in Sri Lanka include:

* Hiking and biking * Snorkeling and diving * Cultural experiences * Beaches * Shopping * Food and wine

What Languages Are Spoken In Sri Lanka?

The official language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, but English is widely spoken.

What is the Currency in Sri Lanka?

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee.

Is Sri Lanka Safe to Travel Now ?

Sri Lanka is a safe country to travel.

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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

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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

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The Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka

Here are some of the best tourist places in Sri Lanka that you shouldn’t miss.

Hello fellow adventurers! A hearty welcome to a captivating journey through the jewel of the Indian Ocean – Sri Lanka. This alluring island nation is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for every traveller. From the mighty peaks of the central highlands to the sun-kissed beaches along the coastline, Sri Lanka has a plethora of experiences, all of which are worth exploring.

The island country of Sri Lanka, officially called the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is located in the Indian Ocean southwest of the Bay of Bengal and southeast of the Arabian Sea. Famously described by Marco Polo as one of the finest islands in the world, Sri Lanka is a land of staggering contrast and spectacular beauty. Furthermore, this charming island gives you an opportunity to experience and see a wide variety of places to visit. A history that dates back thousands of years allows you to experience ancient ruins, while the 1,340 km coastline will give you some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Don’t forget to explore the jungles for their wildlife diversity, tea plantations, picturesque cities, local temples and much more from our list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

In this blog, we will be your guide to discovering the most spectacular places in Sri Lanka. We’ll acquaint you with the ancient wonders of UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Sigiriya’s rock fortress and the sacred city of Anuradhapura. What’s more? We will also introduce you to the lush greenery of the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and go on an unforgettable safari adventure in Yala National Park. No matter what you are passionate about: history, nature or adventure, Sri Lanka has amazing experiences to offer you. Brace yourself to embark on a visual and cultural odyssey, as we take you through the places to visit in Sri Lanka that should be on your travel bucket list.

Also Read: The top 5 places I saw on my visit to Sri Lanka

Table of Contents

Explore Nature With The Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka:

Although it’s small in size, Sri Lanka is an amazing travel destination offering a wide range of places to visit. Journey through its history, nature, and beauty to understand how it has allured travellers for centuries. Hope our list of best places to visit in Sri Lanka transforms your travel experience into a life-changing one.

1. Fourth Highest Mountain In Sri Lanka: Adam’s Peak

One of Sri Lanka’s most striking natural landmarks, Adam’s Peak is a 2,243-metre-high mountain in the central region of Sri Lanka. Poking up from the southwestern edge of the hill country, the soaring summit of Adam’s Peak, also called Sri Pada, is an important pilgrimage site for the last 2,000 years. This beautiful peak stands head and shoulders above the surrounding hills, giving a wonderful impression of sheer altitude. Furthermore, Adam’s Peak has accumulated a mass of legends centred around the footprint-shaped indentation at its summit called the Sri Pada or Sacred Footprint. Also, the Buddhists believe it is Buddha’s footprint while different faiths subsequently modified this to suit their own contrasting theologies. This tall and pointed mountain is topped by a sacred rock formation, and pilgrims traditionally climb to the summit at night in time to watch the sunrise.

2. Sri Lanka’s Ocean City: Colombo

The capital city, Colombo is located on the west coast of the island and is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich history, eclectic culture and buzzing culinary scene. Called The Garden City of the East in the 19th century, Colombo today is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. Additionally, this sprawling city offers a heady blend of legacies of the colonial past, a tropical environment, and a modern cityscape. Wander through the city and explore its mixed cultures, and many temples such as the spectacular Gangaramaya Temple, and sample some delicious food while soaking up the atmosphere. 

3. Little England Of Sri Lanka: Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a hill town that is located in the Central Province. It’s also known as Little England of Sri Lanka. The name Nuwara Eliya means ‘city on the plain (table land)’ or ‘city of light’. It has an elevation of 1,900 metres (6,100 feet) and a temperate climate. This genteel highland city is considered to be the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is surrounded by mountains. it has earned the name Little England due to its old British colonial buildings like Queen’s Cottage and General’s House. The area also boasts many natural wonders such as waterfalls, hills, tea plantations, and the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka, Pidurutalagala. Once you are there, don’t forget to try a cup of tea!

4. Former Capital City Of The Sri Lankan Royal Dynasty: Kandy

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy is the second largest city. This large city is set on a plateau surrounded by central highland mountains. Moreover, these mountains are home to tea plantations and biodiverse rainforests. Kandy is the last ancient kingdom capital and even today remains the country’s most significant cultural and religious center. It is hidden away between beautiful precipitous green hills. Kandy is home to one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the world. The Temple of the Tooth which was built in the 4th century. It holds a very sacred relic, the Buddha’s tooth. Get a taste of Sinhalese culture, especially if you can visit during the Kandy Esala Perahera festival (the Festival of the Tooth) which is celebrated between July and August. The festival features a vibrant religious procession with beautifully adorned elephants, drummers, fire eaters, energetic dancers and stilt walkers.

5. Eighth Wonder Of The World: Sigiriya

Sigiriya is an ancient city built on a steep slope, topped by a plateau 200 metres high. Due to its location, Sirigya is one of the most popular places to visit in Sri Lanka. The site is located in central Sri Lanka. It contains ruins of a fifth-century fortified city with a royal palace, monastery and some exquisite frescoes. The 200-metre-high granite rock plateau is formed from the magma of an extinct volcano. It is undoubtedly the star attraction and perhaps Sri Lanka’s most dramatic sight. The rock plateau was carved and transformed into a palace that was built about 1,500 years ago.

Furthermore, this Lion’s Fortress or Lion’s Rock is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It can be accessed by way of passageways cut into the rock face between a monumental pair of lion paws. Climb up to the ancient ruins and you can see wonderful, dramatic views of the rolling hills in the jungle below.

6. One Of The Main Beach Destinations In Southern Sri Lanka: Mirissa

Mirissa is a small beach village where all your tropical paradise dreams will come true. It’s located in the Matara District of the Southern Province. This beach destination in Sri Lanka will offer you beautiful hideaway beaches, surf waves, whale and dolphin watching, great bars, restaurants and a thriving nightlife scene. Enjoy a fresh coconut on golden sand beaches while you are rocking away in a hammock and admiring the swaying coconut palms. As tourism here didn’t take off until the mid-1990s. The area still doesn’t have luxury resorts to mar the landscape, so it’s just you, the beach, and quiet during the day. Mirissa is the largest fishing port on the south coast and one of the best tourist places in Sri Lanka!  

Also Read: Most Famous Pla ces In Sri Lanka

7. Sri Lanka’s Capital From The 11 th – 13 th Century: Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is an important ancient city ruin site. It’s the main town of Polonnaruwa district in the north-central Province of Sri Lanka. It was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura. Then, in 1982 was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is known for some of the best archaeological treasures such as tombs and temples, statues and stupas—in a compact core of the country. Also, don’t forget to visit the massive (50 buildings) Royal Palace. It has well-preserved audience hall, the stunningly decorated Sacred Quadrangle (at the heart of the ancient city), the impressive walls of the Lankatilaka, and the unique Gal Vihara. Furthermore, Polonnaruwa used to be a busy commercial and religious hub. Therefore today boasts hundreds of ancient structures which are fine examples of ancient Sinhalese art and architecture. 

8. Sri Lanka’s Most Well-Known Wildlife Park: Yala National Park

Step into nature and explore one of the best places in Asia for seeing wildlife. Located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is a wildlife lovers’ paradise. Also, it is popular as Ruhuna National Park and is the most visited national park in Sri Lanka. Covering an area of 979 square kilometres (378 square miles), the Park is the second largest national park in the country. It extends over two provinces of Hambantota district of the southern province and Monaragala district in Uva province. Furthermore, the park is very rich in wildlife and is home to some incredible, varied environments and ecosystems.

Yala National Park has the highest concentration of leopards in the world—so don’t miss their leopard safaris. Additionally, the park is an important sanctuary for Sri Lankan elephants, many aquatic birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and critters. Explore the 1268 square kilometres of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, and surround yourself with an incredible variety of species. 

9. Largest City Of Southern Province: Galle

The vibrant historic city of Galle has its presence on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. This coastal city is one of the major cities of the country. Also, it is just 130 kilometres south of Colombo and is full of charming Dutch-era villas and delightful seaside views. Galle is a well-preserved colonial port city that today serves as the provincial capital and largest city of Southern Province. Galle is all about a large, 17 th -century Dutch fort, which is a World Heritage site. Also, it’s the largest remaining sea fort in Asia built by European occupiers. The city is one of the best tourist places in Sri Lanka to explore on foot. Furthermore, here, one gets to see the wide sand beach, turquoise waters, natural harbour, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and Galle International Stadium, which is considered one of the most picturesque cricket grounds.

Which Places In Sri Lanka Have You Been To?

Long story short, Sri Lanka is a pile of diverse and enchanting destinations that offer absolutely amazing experiences. From the lush tea plantations to historical grandeur, the pristine beaches to ancient wonders, this island nation has something amazing for every type of traveller.

The rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and the serene ambiance of Buddhist temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy add charisma to the travel experience. Sri Lanka’s incredible blend of nature, history, and spirituality makes it an exceptional destination.

When you plan your trip, remember to consider some key factors. For instance, the best time to visit, which is during the dry seasons from December to April and June to September. Accommodations are varied, ranging from luxurious resorts to eco-friendly lodges, ensuring that every traveler can find a comfortable place to stay.

While the journey may be fuelled by a thirst for adventure, it is also a chance to relish the hospitality of the warm and welcoming Sri Lankan people. Whether you’re sipping Ceylon tea on a misty morning, strolling along picturesque coastal towns, or discovering ancient wonders, Sri Lanka will not fall to take your heart away with its charm.

So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and history that Sri Lanka holds within. Explore the teardrop-shaped island, uncover its hidden gems, and create memories that will always be close to your heart. This destination is more than just a place to visit. It’s a journey to cherish, a stroke of experiences waiting to colour the canvas of your travel story.

Also Read: Essential Sri Lanka Travel Tips To Know Before You Go

Sri Lanka has people’s hearts for its natural beauty. Some of the most stunning places in Sri Lanka are Ella with its lush greenery and Ella Rock, Mirissa Beach, popular for its serene coastline, and Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress with exquisite views.

Sri Lanka is popular worldwide for its tea production, especially the world-renowned Ceylon tea. The country is also popular for its stunning beaches, beautiful cultural festivals, and diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.

A 10 to 14-day trip is perfect to explore the major attractions in Sri Lanka easily. This time duration will allow you to visit popular destinations, enjoy the culture, and experience the diversity of the island with absolute comfort.

Sri Lanka is home to several significant Buddhist sites. The most popular ones include the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, Dambulla Cave Temple, and the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which features ancient Buddhist stupas and ruins.

Some best places in Sri Lanka include Colombo for its vibrant city life, Kandy for its cultural heritage, the scenic train ride to Ella, and the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna. The historical ruins of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya are also worth exploring. 

To experience an exciting night out in Sri Lanka, head to Colombo. The vibrant city offers a variety of nightlife options. From stylish bars like Sky Lounge to lively nightclubs such as Clique. Mount Lavinia Beach also hosts thrilling beach parties in the evenings.

Sri Lanka has a range of accommodations. You can stay in luxurious resorts in Bentota, boutique hotels in Galle, or eco-friendly lodges in Yala National Park. Colombo, Kandy, and Ella also have various lodging options that suit different budgets.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the dry season. It is from December to April, and also from June to September on the east coast. This time ensures pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, abbreviated as LKR. Don’t forget to exchange your currency for Rupees when you arrive or use ATMs to withdraw cash.

Yes, Galle is definitely worth a visit. This coastal city is known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, charming streets, and historic Galle Fort. It has an amazing blend of history and culture, making it a must-see destination in Sri Lanka.

Galle is famous for its UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, which is a 17th-century Dutch colonial fortification. The town inside the fort is full of with picturesque streets, boutique shops, and vibrant restaurants. It’s a cultural paradise on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s most famous spot is definitely Sigiriya, often called the “Lion Rock.” This ancient rock fortress is famous for its historical and architectural significance, offering breath taking views from its summit.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of the most visited places in Sri Lanka. It is home to a sacred tooth relic of Buddha and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Furthermore, it draws tourists for its cultural and architectural appeal.

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Must Visit Places in Sri Lanka

World's End Nuwara Eliya

Yala National Park

Galle Face Green

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

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

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

St Anthony's Church

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

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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

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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

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Unawatuna Beach

Sea Turtle Hatchery

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

Jungle Beach

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

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Koggala Beach

Places to Visit in Ella

Mahamevnawa monastery.

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

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

Location: Bandarawela, Ella

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

Price: There is no entry fee

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Ravana's Cave

Places to Visit in Mirissa

Mirissa beach.

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Polhena Beach

The Doctors House

Places to Visit in Bentota

Bentota lake.

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Moragalla Beach

Kande Vihara

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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.

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Sat, 04 May 2024 Today's Paper

Sri Lanka now has highest visa costs in Asia: Tourism stakeholders

3 May 2024 11:22 am - 59     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a letter to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, they urged him to intervene and restore a competitive and user-friendly visa process through a government-operated website, similar to the previous ETA system, to enable a tourist to obtain the necessary 30 days, single entry visa with ease.

They said the tourism industry, a key pillar of Sri Lanka's economic recovery, is aiming for 2.3 to 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2024 and that these visa changes threaten this goal. 

"The abrupt fee increase and complicated process are likely to deter tourists, potentially reducing arrivals to below 2 million. We cannot therefore help but wonder your excellency, whilst yourself together with the tourism authorities and industry led by the Minister, are working tirelessly to rebuild, that some elements, from within your government, are trying to disrupt the progress," the statement added.

"We, the industry want to bring to your attention recent changes in the tourist visa process for visiting Sri Lanka. On April 16, 2024, the Controller General of Immigration issued a notice suspending the Government ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) website. Consequently, visas will now be processed exclusively through a private company-operated website at https://www.srilankaevisa.lk/ starting April 17, 2024.

"We have raised our concerns with the  Minister, who has assured us that a single-entry tourist visa will be made available for USD 50 inclusive of all charges by May 01, 2024. However, the application process remains complex and unfriendly, with additional fees likely to apply.

There has been a significant increase in the cost of tourist visas, with the new private website not offering the previously available single-entry tourist visa with a 30-day validity. Instead, only a more expensive six-month multiple-entry visa is currently available at a total cost of USD 100.77 due to additional service and convenience fees.

A recent study indicates that Sri Lanka now has the highest visa costs in Asia, creating a significant barrier for tourists compared to competing destinations like Thailand, Vietnam and many others that offer free visas or charge much lower fees. Moreover, as we go into the period of family travel in July & August, the current fees would require a family of four to pay USD 400 just to enter the country.

We have attached herewith a report with information on visa costs and how this change of process and cost increase will affect the industry in Sri Lanka. We have also attached an email sent out from the new visa website to a tourist, asking him to re-schedule his holiday as they are unable to issue the visa in time, due to a glitch in the system," it further said.

  Comments - 59

Ams Friday, 03 May 2024 11:38 AM

If they handover to operations to "private Indian company" only, they can get COMMISSION.

Reply 0       0 0       0 -->

joshua Friday, 03 May 2024 11:45 AM

yeah because we have to fund the rogues

Pullma Dingalinga Friday, 03 May 2024 11:46 AM

Seriously, how much longer can we put up with this incompetence ?

dinesh Friday, 03 May 2024 11:47 AM

this is a government with a right had that does not know what the left hand is doing...so much for economic recovery...

Dinruta Friday, 03 May 2024 12:02 PM

Penny wise Pound Foolish. Idiots.

Dez Friday, 03 May 2024 12:07 PM

My next holliday destination is Vietnam, Sri Lanka hotels over priced and paying for a visa is just ridiculous.

STORMY DANIELS Friday, 03 May 2024 02:55 PM

i will never go to sri-lanka again (beautiful country smiling happy people) corrupt politicians MINIMUM HOTEL RATES SUCKS

Reply : 0       0 -->

Johannes Knerr Friday, 03 May 2024 12:12 PM

Exactly in order to have tourist come and visit and be able to showcase the hospitality of the Sri Lankan people and provide good and honest service the visa fee should be massively lowered as it is not at all competitive with other destinations in Asia and countries like Maldives , Mauritius etc. Think long term and provide good tourist services, hotels and environment . But it is very Sri Lankan that they do not think long term but just on how to generate the maximum income

Roy Berman Friday, 03 May 2024 12:19 PM

Now everyone awakening up after only one brave individual young man showing what happens behind the screen. They have talked but No one have done any research before implementing. Just passing yes men and keeping quiet.

lazy, irresponsible, imbicile "patriots" Friday, 03 May 2024 01:33 PM

Exactly. I wonder what the immigration staff were thinking when their jobs were transferred to an outside company. Must have been thanking the Gods that they don't have to do any work. Such lazy, irresponsible, stupid "patriots". This country will never improve.

Alex Davis Friday, 03 May 2024 12:29 PM

Does not matter if visa fee is reduced. The damage is done. Sri Lanka has been shown to be a greedy grasping nation that looks upon tourists as cash cows to be milked of every penny. We certainly won't be back even if the visa is made free.

No point SLns whining Friday, 03 May 2024 01:48 PM

Only very recently there was a public outcry over poor treatment of vlogers by couple of eateries one down south and the other in Colombo. One for charging RS.800 for a cup of tea and vada and the others for supposedly inflating the price of a plate of biryani and for being very rude. To my knowledge no serious action was taken against them. How can the government take action? They themselves were on the verge of increasing fees. One thing is undisputable. Every SLn who calls the politicians crooks should realise that they themselves are from the same pot of rice. Given an opportunity they would do the same. Soon if the current lot of politicians are kicked out the next lot will be no different. What is in the only will come in the ladle. No point SLns whining.

Regular visitor to srilanka Friday, 03 May 2024 02:48 PM

True.. Will not visit this country again. Had to pay 100 dollars for a visit..this time.

ravin Friday, 03 May 2024 12:33 PM

well done cabinet of idiots. This country need you people for the rest of our lives if we are expecting progress for this country. Keep it up

30 Days Complimentary Visa Will Definitely Be Good Friday, 03 May 2024 12:33 PM

Most tourists will need around 20 to 30 days to have short visits to places of interest. These tourist can’t stay long due work and family commitments back home. By giving them complimentary 30 days hassle free on line booking visa’s, will give the impression that the SL government wants them to enjoy the country as their guest. Most aware times are tough and will definitely support whatever ways they can for the local communities. When we have guest to our homes, do we charge them?

Gus Friday, 03 May 2024 12:36 PM

Trying to make a buck out of every opportunity jeopardizing tourism while big businessmen and politicians evade paying Income Taxes and massive Bank Loans. Shame! Looters!!

Ravi Friday, 03 May 2024 12:45 PM

Who is Sri Lanka President ? Mr Narendrasing Modi

Bandara Friday, 03 May 2024 12:51 PM

This is might not be the issue of VFS Global since its a globally recognised company. This might be a issue of some corrupted politicians and government servants.

Sunil Friday, 03 May 2024 04:56 PM

What global recognised. You are stupid. Is it a listed in New York or London Stock exchange. Think before you write nonsense. This company must be involved in all pranks to develop new business opportunities.Except for Tata, I don't respect any Indian businessman or business

M Fernando Friday, 03 May 2024 10:37 PM

Can a decrepit, bankrupt country like Sri Lanka, on financial life-support in the IMF ICU, afford to outsource visa processing to VFS ? There is a case for Australia, US, UK to do it but they have the money and cant be bothered with the aggravation of visa processing. This is a vanity-project by some idiot (likely a Minister) - Meanwhile we have shot ourselves in the foot once again. We are just a nation of looters and fleecers. What more can you expect from the descendants of a bunch of thugs deported from India who are now hailed as the "progenitor of the Sinhala race" !

Anne Feszczur Friday, 03 May 2024 12:58 PM

Right, That's it. I've changed my mind we (6 of us) are off to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Pathmaranjan Perera Friday, 03 May 2024 12:59 PM

30 days free visa on arrival will be the best for tourism industry.

ANNECUNT Friday, 03 May 2024 01:07 PM

END OF SRI-LANKAN TOURISM --- DID NOT TAKE LONG. i am not comming again

STORMY DANIELS Friday, 03 May 2024 01:11 PM

if the 220 ministers take a commission then nothing left. i understand sri-lanka got corrupt politicians, MOST BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY, POLITE ,HELPFUL, SMILING PEOPLE ,EXCEPT THE RAJAPAKSE FAMILY

cineha Friday, 03 May 2024 01:15 PM

In this country every sin is committed under the pretext of "Cabinet Approval".......sic

jan Verbiest Friday, 03 May 2024 01:20 PM

go back to the old system and charge 30 $ as before the covid and give online the possibility to go for a 6 months visa as you did just after the Covid.

Kd Friday, 03 May 2024 01:27 PM

Most countries in Asia provide a free 30 day visa to most visitors. WTF were our people thinking

Wickremasinghe Friday, 03 May 2024 01:44 PM

Wonder of Asia. God bless mother Lanka.

Danny Friday, 03 May 2024 01:57 PM

Even after the aragalaya and the exit of Gota, and the bankruptcy of the nation, the greedy politicians didn’t change. They brought an Indian company to share the $25, replacing a well doing system of the immigration department.

DJ Friday, 03 May 2024 02:19 PM

Yep, now watch how tourism will start to slow. For too much for the visa. Thailand is free for 30 days.

jude Friday, 03 May 2024 02:25 PM

Its not the cost. What Sri Lanka has to offer worth $100 to any western foreigner. Why should you let a foreign company get paid $20 per visa. This should go to the government. If 2,000,000 tourists comes to Sri Lanka per year as predicted, that's $40 million dollars that goes to this company. Why cant the government get that $40 million do something for the people?

roshan Friday, 03 May 2024 02:29 PM

Did government go through a proper tender procedure before awarding a contract to this company? was outside proposals called from other companies? What was the selection criteria in the tender that lead to a contract award for this company that other local companies could not meet?

More Job opportunities to our youngsters Friday, 03 May 2024 05:16 PM

What Tender Procedure? Why foreign company? This job was done by Immigration Department. If the work load has increased, then increase their manpower or pay extra incentive allowance for every Visa processed. May be the Indian company is connected to Keheliya! No? OK. If you so so!

adam Friday, 03 May 2024 02:51 PM

Been here 8 times and have seen the greed of the country and its people climb to unprecedented level currently. Doubtful I'll be returning even though I thought of retiring here with my wife.

Tryouts Friday, 03 May 2024 02:52 PM

We have suffered due to our short sighted politicians. Time to kick the scum out.

Regular visitor Friday, 03 May 2024 02:55 PM

Last visit to srilanka. I have been visiting twice a year. I'm disgusted by the visa fee.. 100% visa fee increase... are these people are stupid.. or do you u feel tourists are desperate to visit this country... no more

Kick the ranil rajapaksa scum out Friday, 03 May 2024 03:15 PM

Soon India will decide who can and who cannot have children in Sri Lanka.

Ranga Friday, 03 May 2024 03:17 PM

I love how Sri Lanka manage to keep digging it's own grave For public voting you play stupid games and win stupid prices

Shera Friday, 03 May 2024 03:22 PM

It's counter productive to increasing tourism. Who comes up with these policies? And what guidelines did they use to increase fees like this without backing it with any research? Just pure greed.

Danny Friday, 03 May 2024 03:39 PM

Tourist are coming here because of the high visa fee of the Indians. When the Indian government realised that they got rid of this company and gone for online visa at a lower rate. Now the Indian company that lost mega business, tricked our greedy politicians to agree to increase and to share commission on $25 extra charges. This is completely opposite to what India did. Our bid neighbour didn’t want us to progress economically and our greedy politicians are doing the bad for the nation’s bankrupted economy. Why our Immigration officials didn’t protest?

JD Friday, 03 May 2024 03:54 PM

Telling foreigners not to come. Thanks, we have better destinations

Gune Friday, 03 May 2024 04:04 PM

Who the hell decided on this crap policy?. This shows why SL can never ever be a developed country. A bankrupt country still has not learned anything. Gone back to old days, bribes, corruption and so on. Why do we have this jumping Harin as a minister? Who gets the commissions? Where is accountability? Is sleeping Siripala anywhere? This country is a lunatic asylum. Why do tourists ever come to this crap place paying US$500 per family of 4? You've got to be really mad. Look at Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. They will be laughing.

Dutugemunu Priyath Friday, 03 May 2024 04:04 PM

Next President Ranjith Singh !!

Lionel Friday, 03 May 2024 04:11 PM

Wonder why immigration officers don't strike this time. They normally strike for every time, but why ate they silent? Part of the commissions?

hora myna Friday, 03 May 2024 04:21 PM

When the sate become banana republic, this type of thuggery things are very obvious. These uneducated politicians who are ruling this country have no clear vision for the future of country. These thugs must be eliminated without any further delay.

Thirai Friday, 03 May 2024 04:35 PM

The same corrupt guys were recycled by the big crook. Now see what the aviation minister had done. This is the same guy that demanded bribe from a Japanese company?

Beliro Yan Friday, 03 May 2024 05:33 PM

Why would a tourist come when 1) Visa costs are exorbitant - competitors are much cheaper. And there are all manner of websites luring you to pay silly money for a visa. Why have so many agents? and not control the price. 2) Everything is overpriced for a tourist. Why? 3) Hotel rates are ridiculously expensive and who today wants to eat trifle using yesterdays left over fruit? No imagination. 3)You cannot even get a decent cup of proper brewed tea anywhere! Ceylon Tea indeed! 3)

D S de Silva Friday, 03 May 2024 05:41 PM

This is what happens when you send people who should be working in paddy fields to parliament. Any person with an ounce brain will understand the repercussions of this, but for the ones in parliament who makes all these decisions, it's irrelevant. Because they came to parliament only with one objective in mind, milk the system at the expenses of the citizens and make money and retire with benefits. This system has to change, if Sri Lanka is to move even one inch towards prosperity. Whilst the thugs and rogues are looting the country, wickramasinghe is day dream how to stay in power.

DW Friday, 03 May 2024 05:45 PM

Governments in other countries have various avenues to get money because they are rapidly developing. Sri Lanka has none, so they rely on easy money from tourists. The government doesn't have to do any hard work.

Buddhist Friday, 03 May 2024 05:57 PM

Government Strategy: Charge high visa fees, kill tourism, give car permits to MPs, and give bribes to MPs who wish to cross over to Ranil. Name it the Development Fund!

Ahmad Friday, 03 May 2024 06:29 PM

I'm an outbound tour operator from Bangladesh. I decided not to send tourists to Sri Lanka. Instead I'll now send tourists to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Maldives etc. This visa cost increase feels like theft.

Tissa Fernando Friday, 03 May 2024 06:32 PM

Government Evisa site was working perfectly. The traitors are selling all available avenues to Indian companies.

Jayantha Friday, 03 May 2024 07:45 PM

Tiran has once again betrayed the nation. He once gave money to ltte terrorists. Now betrayed the nations major income stream and destroyed the good name of Sri Lanka. He should be sacked and send behind bars. Where is the opposition npp and sjb. Are they sleeping still. Start protests until he is behind bars. This is a major betrayal of nation and also deceiving the cabinet sothat he can get a cut under the table.

Citizen k Friday, 03 May 2024 08:08 PM

We always know how to spoil a party.This is Sri Lankan trend.When will we get right people at the right time in the right place?

Harin is a ponnaya Friday, 03 May 2024 08:10 PM

Ponna Harin

Rathnavali Friday, 03 May 2024 08:30 PM

Enough of harm has been done to the country by screaming and shouting and sharing this hundred times online. This President has reversed the decision taken by the Minister. The President has to work with incompetent Ministers since the so called "good guys" refused to support him. So calm down people and let the tourists enjoy the beauty of our country without causing them to stay away.

Jay Friday, 03 May 2024 09:31 PM

For Srilankan Politicians Commission First...Development of Tourism Industry of the country, who cares!

Navi Friday, 03 May 2024 10:46 PM

GOSL have once again shot herself in the foot at a time Tourists are flowing into Sri Lanka. Why a service fee of USD 25.00 ?????? Why did not GOSL appoint representatives from People's

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