SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka was famously described by Marco Polo as one of the finest islands in the world. It has a history that dates back thousands of years and, although it’s small, there is so much history, nature and beauty to see in this country. Explore its beaches, jungles, tea plantations, temples, and much more from our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka.

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

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.

Golden beaches, wildlife-rich jungles, rolling tea plantations, and mist-shrouded mountains make Sri Lanka one of the best Asian countries to visit. Tourists marvel at the beauty and physical diversity of this island.

The view from the top of Sri Lanka’s fourth highest peak, Adam’s peak, is known to be stunning. You can hike this world heritage site within 5-6 hours, depending on your degree of fitness. read our top list of tourist destinations & Best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

The Dambulla Cave Temple :

The most popular among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka is the Dambulla cave temple. It tops the Sri Lanka tourist destinations. The largest temple complex in Sri Lanka, its statues and paintings date back to the 12th Century AD.

The temple complex has five rooms of different sizes; all rooms have Buddha in a different position looking calm and peaceful. The temple is built on a black rocky mountain which serves as a nice contrast with the white walls of the temple. Don’t miss the view from the top.

Adam’s Peak :

Adam’s Peak is a tall, cone-shaped mountain in a diverse biological site in central Sri Lanka. The 2,243m (7,359ft) ascent is a common pilgrimage route in the Buddhist religion, as it’s said there is an impression of Buddha’s own footprint near the summit.

It takes between two and four hours to climb; aim to arrive at the top of the mountain around dawn for an unforgettable sunrise.

Ella :

Looking for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka? 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.

Nuwara Eliya :

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.

Arugam Bay :

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.

Old Dutch Fort At Galle :

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 within South Asia.

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.

Mirissa :

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.

Sigiriya :

A visit to this place will show you an 1600 years old Sigiriya Fortress which was built by King Kasyapa. This massive compound is protected by two moats and three ramparts. It is once known to be the private residence of King Kasyapa and also one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka. If you are interested in ancient places, this is one of the best tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya, Pidurangala :

Pidurangala is a massive rock formation located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka. It has an interesting history closely related to that of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climbing to the top of Pidurangala Rock is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya. If you are fit and adventurous it is a climb worth making. It will take you about two hours.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress :

Perhaps one of the most 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.

Kandy :

Sri Lanka’s greatest gem, Kandy is one of the most popular places to visit that is wrapped by awe-inspiring vistas, tea plantations and spice gardens. The place is decorated with lush greenery and is blessed with a temperate climate making it a righteous abode to have a romantic holiday. Kandy is known for Temple of Tooth and Esala Perahera, these two attractions are widely visited.

Royal Palace of Kandy :

The Royal palace of the Kandyan Kingdom is the last reminiscence of the reigning King of Kandayan, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. The palace dates back to the 14th century, yet witnessing the glory and glamour of the kingdom is stupendous. The Palace has seen scars from many wars and tremors of foreign invaders like the Portuguese.

Anuradhapura :

Anuradhapura is one of the world heritage site and the place gained importance only after the coming of the Bodhi tree which is known as the tree of enlightenment. The cutting of this tree was brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta and is also one of the famous places to see in Sri Lanka.

Temple of the Tooth :

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.

Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake :

Lush greenery, tropical climate and wilderness camping is the key essence of visiting Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake. This is a manmade lake believed to be constructed by King Dutugemunu’s betel supplier named Bulata. Counted as one of the most incredible places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Ravana Falls :

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.

Visit Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage :

Peradeniya Gardens is a spacious 147 acre of natural extravaganza consisting of more than 4000 species of plants, and 10,000 varied kinds of trees, incidentally serves as the largest garden in Sri Lanka and is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya :

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

Haputale :

Sri Lankan town, Haputale is often regarded as a base while visiting the Horton Plains. However, its dramatic location seated on the southern edge of the hill country offers a beautiful sight to lay eyes on.

Haputale gives an excellent view of the southern plains, the inland and the coast. The travellers can also enjoy quiet nature walks amid the surrounding hills. The town is filled with vibrant shops, and cosy cafés that are perfect to sit and chat admiring the town.

Mihintale:

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.

Polonnaruwa :

Polonnaruwa is an ancient and culturally opulent city, and it displays the early civilisation of Sri Lanka. In the center of the city, there lies an astonishing ruin, the royal palace complex, it is a religious building that displays the finest remains of Polonnaruwa.

This place is a large area that stores a melange of ancient structures such as tombs, temples, statues and stupas. Thus, Polonnaruwa is considered as one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Yala National Park :

Spotting a leopard prowling in the Park of  Yala is quite an ordinary spectacle. Witness the untamed world of nature in the Yala National Park and quench your eagerness to explore and learn more about wildlife. Yala National Park is located in the South-East part of Sri Lanka.

Tea and Herb Tour in Colombo:

Sri Lanka is known for its exclusive varieties of tea. The capital city of Colombo is covered with a green carpet of tea plantations that demands a separate tour in itself. The aroma of tea and herbs in these estates lend an incredible magic to this place.

Panadura Beach:

Famous for providing a spacious shoreline for kite flying and a kid’s play area, Panadura beach is an ideal place to have a fun gathering and spending quality time with your loved ones. It is even appropriate for jogging, running, exercising, and more along with scrumptious seafood available nearby.

Unawatuna:

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.

Arthur’s Seat:

Located just southwest of Kandy Lake, Arthur’s Seat is one of those places in Sri Lanka that is popular amongst photographers to capture natural beauty. The place has an interesting history about how Arthur used to view the city by standing on a stone seat under a tree located in his bungalow.

Mount Lavinia:

Mount Lavinia is one of the most romantic tourist places in Sri Lanka. It is popular among the tourists for its vibrant nightlife and Golden Mile Beach. On your visit to this place, make sure to stay at the deluxe Mount Lavinia Hotel for an amazing experience.

Koggala Beach:

Koggla beach is one such place where you will find a combination of warmth of the golden sand beneath your feet along with sea breeze caressing you. Located 140km from Colombo, this idyllic place is for all the beach lovers to spend some time and enjoy life as they have always wanted to. Leave your care and worries behind and just be a part of some breath-taking moments.

Trincomalee:

Trincomalee, among many similar Sri Lanka tourist spots, is blessed with a beautiful beach. If you are up for an underwater diving tour, then SLDT (Sri Lanka Diving Tours) will give you the best experience. Besides water sports, there are also many temples and beaches in Trincomalee.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve:

Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, 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.

Polhena Beach:

The perfect spot to indulge in swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, Polhena Beach provides tourists with a perfectly thrilling beachside. The beach is also famous as a great romantic getaway spot due to its iconic romantic feel and look.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve :

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.

Bentota :

Bentota, a tourist town on the southern coast of Lanka that entertains visitors with a melange of activities. Surfing, sailing and snorkelling are ever exciting sports but here also lies beaches where you can spend an evening watching the sunset.

A visit to the sea turtle hatchery and conservation center will give you immense pleasure, so will a visit to the 17th century fortress and old Buddhist temples.

Hikkaduwa:

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 best surfing areas, with the best waves between November and March.

Ruwanwelisaya:

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 charm that is irresistible.

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara:

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.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve :

Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, 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.

Polhena Beach :

The perfect spot to indulge in swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, Polhena Beach provides tourists with a perfectly thrilling beachside. The beach is also famous as a great romantic getaway spot due to its iconic romantic feel and look.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve :

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.

Bentota :

Bentota, a tourist town on the southern coast of Lanka that entertains visitors with a melange of activities. Surfing, sailing and snorkelling are ever exciting sports but here also lies beaches where you can spend an evening watching the sunset. A visit to the sea turtle hatchery and conservation center will give you immense pleasure, so will a visit to the 17th century fortress and old Buddhist temples.

Hikkaduwa:

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 best surfing areas, with the best waves between November and March.

Ruwanwelisaya:

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 charm that is irresistible.

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara:

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.