Top 10 destinations in Sri Lanka

As a travel destination, Sri Lanka offers many attractions and interesting places. As a Sri Lankan and someone living outside of Sri Lanka, below are the Top 10 must visit places in Sri Lanka.

Famous Traveller

Number 10 – Beaches

Arguabally, if you visit Sri Lanka for holiday, you need to spend time day or two in Golden sandy beaches of Sri Lanka.

Number 9 – Galle

Galle is city in west cost of Sri Lanka. Main attraction is the Dutch Fort built in 1588 by the Protuguese. By the 14th century, Galle harbour was the most important harbour in Sri Lanka and retained its importance until 1873 when an artificial harbour was built in Colombo.

Number 8 – Yala

Sri Lanka have several National Parks. Yala is one of the largest National Park in down south. Here are few reasons to visit Yala :

1. Breathtaking Wildlife: Yala is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife. 

2. Sri Lankan Leopard: Yala National Park has one of the highest concentrations of leopards in the world. 

3. Rich Biodiversity: The park encompasses different ecosystems, including dense jungles, scrublands, and coastal areas.

4. Bird Watching: Yala is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded.

5. Beautiful Landscapes: In addition to its wildlife, Yala offers stunning landscapes, including lagoons, beaches, and rocky outcrops.

6. Cultural Significance: Yala National Park is situated in close proximity to ancient archaeological sites, such as Sithulpahuwa, which adds a cultural dimension to your visit.

7. Sustainable Tourism: Yala National Park has made efforts to promote sustainable tourism practices.

8. Adventure and Safari Tours: Yala offers exciting safari experiences, allowing visitors to explore the park in open-top jeeps.

Number 7 – Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Known as “Little England,” it has a cool climate, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes. 

We can give plenty of reasons to visit Nuwara Eliya, But here are some handful.

1. Scenic Beauty: Nuwara Eliya is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and lush landscapes.

2. Tea Plantations: The town is at the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. You can visit tea estates, such as Pedro Tea Estate or Mackwoods Labookellie Tea Centre, to learn about the tea-making process, enjoy panoramic views of the plantations, and even sample freshly brewed Ceylon tea.

3. Victoria Park: This well-maintained public park in the center of Nuwara Eliya is a great place for a leisurely stroll.

4. Hakgala Botanical Gardens: Located a short distance from Nuwara Eliya, these gardens are known for their diverse collection of flora, including roses, orchids, and ferns. The gardens are set against the backdrop of Hakgala Rock, creating a picturesque setting.

5. Cool Climate: Nuwara Eliya’s elevation (around 1,868 meters or 6,128 feet) gives it a cooler climate compared to the rest of Sri Lanka. This makes it a welcome escape from the heat of other lowland areas and provides a refreshing change.

Number 6 – Kandy

Kandy is a vibrant city located in the central part of Sri Lanka, surrounded by hills and set around a picturesque lake. It is the capital of the Central Province and is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and scenic beauty. 

The Royal Palace of Kandy, also known as the Royal Palace of the Kandyan Kingdom, was the last royal residence of the Sri Lankan monarchy. Today, it functions as the National Museum of Kandy, displaying artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region

The city is centered around the scenic Kandy Lake, locally known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk. The lake was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe and adds to the city’s charm with its tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its shores or take a boat ride.

Kandy’s blend of cultural significance, natural beauty, and historical attractions makes it a compelling destination for travelers exploring Sri Lanka. The city’s cultural events, lush surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere contribute to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Number 5 – Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular and diverse wildlife sanctuaries, located in the North Central Province of the country. 

One of the park’s main attractions is the annual “Gathering” of elephants that takes place during the dry season, usually between June and October. During this time, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank, the park’s central reservoir, to graze on the lush grass that emerges as the water level recedes. This spectacle is one of the largest gatherings of wild Asian elephants in the world

Minneriya National Park is easily accessible from popular tourist destinations like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka.

Before planning a visit, it’s advisable to check the best times for wildlife sightings and any updates on park regulations. Minneriya National Park provides a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty and biodiversity of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.

Number 4 – Anuradapura

Anuradhapura is an ancient city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka and holds immense historical and cultural significance. It was the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and served as a center of political, economic, and cultural activities for several centuries. Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. 

Visiting Anuradhapura offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the remnants of an ancient civilization. The city’s well-preserved archaeological sites and cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Buddhist history and architecture.

Number 3 – Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is another ancient city in Sri Lanka that served as the second capital of the country after Anuradhapura. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved archaeological ruins that provide insights into the country’s history and cultural heritage. 

Polonnaruwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century AD. It was a thriving city during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, who is credited with many of the city’s impressive constructions.

The city is home to a multitude of ancient ruins, including monumental architecture, royal palaces, temples, and dagobas (stupas). Some of the notable structures include the Quadrangle, Vatadage, Rankoth Vehera, Gal Vihara, and the Royal Palace complex.

Polonnaruwa, like Anuradhapura, offers a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient history and cultural achievements. Its well-preserved ruins, religious monuments, and hydraulic engineering marvels make it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in exploring the country’s rich heritage.

Number 2 – Dambulla

Dambulla, located in the central part of Sri Lanka, is known for its historic cave temple complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a complex of five caves that house numerous statues and paintings related to Buddhism. The cave complex dates back to the 1st century BCE and has been continuously renovated and expanded over the centuries. The caves are adorned with intricate murals, Buddha statues, and other religious artwork.

The cave paintings in Dambulla Cave Temple depict various scenes from the life of Lord Buddha, as well as other religious and historical narratives. The vibrant colors and artistic details of the paintings contribute to the spiritual and cultural significance of the site.

Dambulla is often included in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, along with Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, making it a significant stop for travelers exploring the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Dambulla Cave Temple, with its religious and artistic treasures, remains a major attraction drawing visitors from around the world.

Number 1 – Sigiriya 

Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. It is situated in the central part of the country, near the town of Dambulla.

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress that rises 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. It was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD as a royal citadel. The site includes remnants of the fortress, including walls, moats, and gardens.

he rock walls of Sigiriya feature a gallery of ancient frescoes known as the Sigiriya Damsels. These vibrant paintings depict celestial maidens and are considered masterpieces of ancient Sri Lankan art.

As visitors ascend the rock, they pass by the Mirror Wall, a highly polished surface that was once believed to reflect the king’s image. Over the centuries, visitors have etched graffiti and poems on the wall, providing insights into the site’s long history.

Sigiriya is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and ancient civilizations. The site’s combination of natural beauty, architectural marvels, and cultural significance makes it a captivating and memorable experience for visitors to Sri Lanka.