Historic Places

A heritage that dates back over 2500 years has left Sri Lanka with historically and culturally important landmarks and buildings. Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the first kingdom of the country and the most celebrated historical city that features a large repository of ancient ruins. A centre for Buddhism and ancient culture, it contains one of the largest structures of the ancient world, the Ruwanweliseya Stupa and the city is famed for having the oldest authenticated tree, the Sri Maha Bodhi. The fig tree originates from a cutting of the sacred original tree in India where Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. It was planted ceremoniously on the island as early as the 3rd century B.C. The venerated structures, carvings, statues and rock temples are a testimony to the excellent craftsmanship and architecture of the ancient Sri Lanka. The city of Anuradhapura also boasts evidence of an early irrigation system that has awe-inspired the whole world. The tanks are an engineering masterpiece, which still operate and irrigate paddy cultivation. Polonnaruwa, the second kingdom of Sri Lanka is an equally significant heritage site that showcases ancient ruins, structures and legacy. Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy are together named the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. They are the most important historic places to visit in Sri Lanka.




Sigiriya

One of the must-see world famous Sri Lanka tourist attractions, the rock fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a specimen of stunning engineering and construction. Standing 200 metres above the forested plain, the flattened summit is an ideal place for amazing picturesque views. Skilfully constructed moats, ramparts and water gardens are spread out at the bottom, creating elegance and testimony of a once flourished royal palace. Remnants of giant stone lion paws remind the visitors why it is called the Lion Rock. Sigiriya frescoes are some of the most treasured and valuable art work seen in the country. The Rock displays some of the earliest known graffiti, done by the ancient tourists. Sigiriya is a result of a power battle between two brothers, one seeking vengeance and the other protection against retribution. It is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka


Kandy Dalada Maligawa

The mountainous landscape of the central hills provides a mild climate for the globally renowned Sri Lankan tea, exclusive golfing and a diverse culture. Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second largest city and is known for its fresh air, cool climate and the most scared temple grounds of Buddhism. The Kandy city and the countryside provide glorious views, making it perfect for a laidback holiday. Ayurveda treatments and spas in Kandy are known to heal you physically while giving you the best natural healing atmosphere. The valleys, hills, rivers, lakes and cascading waterfalls make this historical kingdom a place of absolute charm. The annual Kandyan perahera is a one of the major Sri Lanka tourist attractions. The Victoria Golf and Country Club offers first class golfing experience as part of three prominent golf courses in the country. Sri Lanka’s longest river Mahaweli loops around the hills of Kandy, forming an abundance of scenic beauty. The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya has a collection of fascinating plant and tree varieties. Hill Country can be identified as one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.


Hill Country Srilanka

Nuwara Eliya of the hill country is another favourite destination on the island and a top of the list places to visit in Sri Lanka. Considered by many as the tea capital of the country the lush green tea estates endlessly scatter around the region. The highest plateau on the island, Horton Plains in Nuwara Eliya is a National Park of mystic beauty. Where the southern Horton Plains abruptly ends is known as the World’s End and is a sight worth thousand words. Horton Plains is perfect for trekkers who are looking for soft and hard trails. The exquisite waterfalls of Nuwara Eliya from Laksapana Falls to Backers Falls create a wonderful atmosphere for any nature lover. The Nuwara Eliya golf course spreading over 90 acres is an 18 hole golf course giving golfers a delightful golfing experience. The Hakkgala Gardens presenting plants and flowers from all over the world is another horticultural masterpiece.

Best Beaches

Perhaps the region that truly defines Sri Lanka as an island in the great expanse of the Indian Ocean is down south. Galle, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Beruwela, Unawatuna and Tangalle make coveted Sri Lanka tourist attractions. Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Weligama and Mirissa are fantastic surfing locations while Hikkaduwa reefs provide a snorkelling adventure like never before. The Dondra Point of down south is a main port for whale watching in Sri Lanka with great chances of spotting sperm whales and blue whales. Mirissa Beach too is a popular beach for Surfing and Whale watching. The seaside town of Galle is a fine example of a fortified city. The Dutch Galle Fort is a World Heritage Site and is known to be the best preserved sea fort in South Asia. The National Maritime Museum is also located within the Fort. Hidden in the south-west and southern Sri Lanka are some of the best beaches, holiday resorts and maritime places to visit in Sri Lanka. Find out more about Sri Lanka Beaches.

National Parks

The Yala National Park, the second largest national park in the country is also the most visited national park on the island, providing some of the best wildlife safaris. The elephants of Yala are a main attraction while its leopard density is one of the highest in the world. Six national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries lie in the vicinity of Yala. Its diverse ecosystems range from wet monsoon to freshwater and marine wetlands. Yala too is a birdwatchers paradise. National Parks are some of the most exciting Sri Lanka tourist attractions. Colombo too is known to be one of the Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka with some major tourist attractions in the country.