Formerly known as Ceylon, this country has a very rich history, a vibrant culture and so many beautiful destinations. If you love natures and beaches Sri Lanka will not disappoint.
Marco Polo once described Sri Lanka as one of the finest island nations in the world and it is easy to see why. Expect jungles, temples, tea plantations, beaches, and so much more.
Below we have put together a list of essential must-visit places you need to visit in Sri Lanka that will take your breath away.
1. Galle
Galle is a city located in south western Sri Lanka which will remind you of the colonial era due to all the architectural remains of the Dutch nation.
There are lots of small towns that’s away from the hustle and bustle of city life where you will get a taste of seaside life in Sri Lanka.
This region is filled with attractions you should visit including the Galle Fort, St Mary’s Cathedral, and Galle International stadium just to name a few.
2. Sigiriya
Sigiriya is located in the Matale district of Sri Lanka. It is also known as “Lion’s Rock” due to the rock fortress which is located here.
Sigirya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are lots of frescoes, gardens and ponds that will blow your mind. The scenery is spectacular which is why this is one of the most popular places to visit for international visitors.
3. Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is another World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive places you can visit in Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa used to be the capital of Sri Lanka and was also a very important destination for trade and markets.
Polonnaruwa is home to many temples, ancient tombs, statues, and well-preserved archaeological sites which will blow you away. When visiting this area you will really get a feel for the ancient history of the country and also get to see beautufl Sinhalese art.
4. Bentota
Bentota is one of the most peaceful and stunning places you can visit in Sri Lanka.
Located on the coast there are lots of adventure activities available to international tourists including helicopter rides and water sports.
Tourism is developing this area into one of the main tourist hotspot in the country however, the beauty of the place is still untouched.
You can kick back and relax on the stunning beach in Bentota as well as seeking out more cultured local sights like the Galapatha Raja Maha Vihara Buddhist temple.
5. Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is magnificent in terms of its natural beauty. It is a plateau that is surrounded by hills and it offers you one of the most beautiful destinations in Asia.
Nuwara Eliya is known as “Little England” as you can find old buildings like the Queen’s Cottage and the General’s House which were built during the colonial period.
Another great thing about Nuawara Eliya is that it is considered to be the most important tea plantation areas of Sri Lanka. Be sure to try some exotic varieties of tea and buy some presents for people back home when you’re there.
6. Adam’s Peak
Adam's Peak is a 2,243 m tall mountain located in central Sri Lanka. Adam's Peak is famous for it's tall pointy mountain it’s named after and also for the Sri Pada, a scared rock formation located near the summit.
You will get to see one of the best sunrise of your life if you choose to climb this stunning you would have ever seen if you climb on top of this mountain.
7. Elephant Freedom Project
Keen to spend a gap year in Sri Lanka or just do something meaningful? There are lots of volunteering programs in Sri Lanka and you can be more than just a tourist by visiitng or helping at the incredible Elephant Freedom Project.
The Elephant Freedom Project is a small family run initiative and a shelter for captive elephants located in Kegalle, between Kandy and Colombo. This project aims to give captive elephants a good and safe home, which is made possible thanks to tourist visits and donations.
You can visit for 1/2 day in the morning or afternoon, a full day or even volunteer for 1, 2 or 3 weeks. Bookings need to be made in advance.
Contact the Elephant Freedom Project today to arrange your visit.
Plan a Trip to Sri Lanka
Booking a trip to Sri Lanka will be one of the best decisions you will make in your life.
Hopefully these featured destinations have managed to ignite your wanderlust and make you want to explore this stunning island.
To see as many as places as possible search Sri Lanka tours.
If you have ever been to Sri Lanka and would like to recommend somewhere we have missed off our list contact us today.
