What are the most popular Sri Lanka travel places to see?
Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations offer a remarkable diversity of experiences, from ancient ruins to pristine beaches, from misty mountains to wildlife-rich national parks. Travelers can find many hundreds of Sri Lanka travel places to see. Each place has its own unique charm and attractions, contributing to Sri Lanka’s reputation as a compact yet diverse travel destination.
Whether you’re climbing the steps of Sigiriya, watching elephants in Udawalawe, sipping tea in Nuwara Eliya, or relaxing on the beaches of Mirissa, Sri Lanka promises unforgettable experiences. The country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality make it a destination that appeals to all types of travelers.
As you plan your journey through these popular destinations, remember to travel responsibly, respecting local cultures and the environment. With its wealth of attractions packed into a relatively small area, Sri Lanka truly offers a world of experiences in one beautiful island.
What are the most popular Sri Lanka travel places to see?
1. Colombo
2. Sigiriya
3. Kandy
4. Nuwara Eliya
5. Ella
6. Yala National Park
7. Galle
8. Mirissa
9. Anuradhapura
10. Polonnaruwa
11. Dambulla
12. Trincomalee
13. Jaffna
14. Arugam Bay
15. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
1. Colombo
Colombo is one of the most popular Sri Lanka travel places to see. As the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is often the starting point for many travelers. Without a shadow of a doubt, the city of Colombo is among the most desirable locations in all of Sri Lanka. Your voyage will be utterly unfair if you do not make a stop in Colombo, which is the capital of Sri Lanka. Do not skip this stop. Within this metropolis, there are a great number of locations that you can go to, and each one will undoubtedly capture your attention. It is highly recommended that you go on a tour of Colombo in order to get the most out of this fascinating city.
All things considered, the city is so incredibly lovely that it is difficult to put into words how lovely it is. Make a list of places you want to visit in Colombo and then reserve a taxi or tuk-tuk so that you can tour the entire city. One can, without a shadow of a doubt, see the entirety of the city in a single visit. Among the many tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, this bustling capital city is without a doubt one of the most well-known destinations. Colombo is the landing point for most travelers, and Colombo is the starting point of most tour packages in Sri Lanka.
Key Attractions:
- Gangaramaya Temple: A beautiful Buddhist temple showcasing various architectural styles.
- Galle Face Green: A sprawling urban park along the coast, perfect for evening strolls and street food.
- National Museum: Houses a vast collection of Sri Lankan artifacts and historical items.
- Pettah Market: A bustling open-air bazaar offering everything from fresh produce to electronics.
- Independence Memorial Hall: A national monument commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence.
Why Visit: Colombo offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern development, and Sri Lankan culture. It’s an excellent place to acclimatize and get a taste of urban Sri Lankan life.
Best Time to Visit: December to March for drier weather.
2. Sigiriya
Known as “Lion Rock,” Sigiriya is perhaps Sri Lanka’s most recognizable landmark.
Discover the astonishing Sigiriy paintings, water gardens, and mediaeval ruins that are located within the spectacular Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Without a doubt, this is without a doubt one of the most amazing natural habitats residing in Sri Lanka. Make sure you don’t miss out on the breathtaking panorama of the jungle and undulating hills that opens out below you. Who is now prepared to depart? The World Heritage List includes Sigiriya as one of the locations that are included on the list. For an infinite number of reasons, this location will captivate and captivate you. To begin, it is really appealing due to the mesmerizing greenery that surrounds it. This is the primary reason for its attractiveness.
It is stated that your journey to Sri Lanka will not be complete if you do not visit this location. This is due to a number of factors, one of which is the beautiful variety of vegetation that can be found there. This monument is primarily a fortified structure with vegetation surrounding it. Rock has been reduced to the level of the stronghold. In light of this, if you ascend, you will be able to examine your surroundings from every direction. If you were to be able to witness it, it would be an incredible sight. In spite of the fact that getting here is not especially challenging, it will still be worthwhile even if you experience a few little obstacles along the way.
Key Attractions:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A 5th-century fortress atop a massive rock column.
- Ancient Frescoes: Well-preserved paintings on the rock face.
- Water Gardens: symmetrical gardens at the base of the rock.
- Sigiriya Museum: offers context and history of the site.
Why Visit: Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan engineering and artistry. The view from the top is breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit: April to June for clearer skies, but it can be visited year-round.
3. Kandy
The last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a picturesque city in the central highlands.
Setting and Landscape: Nestled among misty hills at an elevation of about 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level, Kandy offers a refreshing contrast to the tropical heat of Sri Lanka’s coastal regions. The city is built around a picturesque man-made lake, with lush green hills rising on all sides, creating a bowl-like effect. The surrounding landscape is a tapestry of tea plantations, dense forests, and well-manicured gardens.
Historical Significance: Kandy holds a special place in Sri Lankan history as the last capital of the ancient kings’ era. It famously resisted European colonial powers for centuries, maintaining its independence long after the coastal regions had fallen. This resistance has imbued Kandy with a sense of pride and a distinct cultural identity that persists to this day.
Cultural Heart: At the core of Kandy’s cultural significance is the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics – a tooth of the Buddha. This golden-roofed temple not only attracts pilgrims from across the Buddhist world but also serves as the focal point for the spectacular Esala Perahera, an annual procession featuring elaborately decorated elephants, traditional dancers, and drummers.
City Layout: The last king of Kandy built Kandy Lake, an artificial lake, in 1807. The lake serves as a natural focal point, with many of the city’s key attractions and hotels positioned around its shores. The streets radiate outward from the lake, climbing the surrounding hills, where you’ll find residential areas and viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the city.
Architecture: Kandy’s architecture is a blend of traditional Sinhalese, colonial, and modern styles. The Temple of the Tooth exemplifies traditional Sri Lankan architecture with its red-tiled roofs and intricately carved wooden pillars. Colonial-era buildings, such as the Queen’s Hotel, showcase British influences, while modern developments add a contemporary touch to the cityscape.
Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by lush greenery. The Royal Botanical Gardens in nearby Peradeniya are a testament to this natural abundance, showcasing a vast array of tropical plants, including a famous orchid collection. The Udawattakele Forest Reserve, a tropical forest right in the heart of the city, offers a quick escape into nature.
Cultural Experiences: Kandy is alive with cultural performances, particularly traditional Kandyan dance and drumming. These performances, characterized by acrobatic moves and colorful costumes, offer visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich performing arts heritage. The city is also known for its craftsmen, skilled in arts such as woodcarving, silverwork, and traditional mask making.
Atmosphere: Despite being Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, Kandy maintains a somewhat laid-back atmosphere. The mornings often start misty, with the hills shrouded in fog that gradually lifts to reveal the bustling city below. The streets are a hive of activity, with a mix of locals, pilgrims, and tourists creating a vibrant yet not overwhelming ambiance.
Culinary Scene: Kandy offers a taste of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with a regional twist. Local specialties include Kandyan fusion rice, a variety of spicy curries, and an array of sweet treats. The city also boasts numerous tea shops where visitors can sample Ceylon’s finest brews.
Gateway to the Hills: Kandy serves as a gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country. It’s the starting point for the famously scenic train journey to Ella, winding through tea plantations and misty mountains. This positioning makes Kandy a crucial stop for those looking to explore the cooler climes and natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s interior.
Modern Development: While preserving its historical charm, Kandy is also a modern city with universities, shopping centers, and contemporary amenities. This blend of old and new creates a unique urban landscape where ancient temples coexist with modern cafes and shops.
In essence, Kandy is a city that captures the heart of Sri Lankan culture and history while being embraced by the natural beauty of the hill country. Its unique blend of spiritual significance, colonial heritage, and natural splendor makes it a microcosm of Sri Lanka itself, offering visitors a multi-faceted experience that lingers long after they’ve left its mist-covered hills.
Key Attractions:
- Temple of the Tooth Relic: Houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
- Royal Botanical Gardens: Sprawling gardens with diverse plant species.
- Kandy Lake: A man-made lake in the heart of the city.
- Ceylon Tea Museum: Showcases the history of Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry.
Why Visit: Kandy offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s also the starting point for scenic train journeys into the hill country.
Best Time to Visit: January to April for drier weather, but July/August to witness the famous Esala Perahera festival.
4. Nuwara Eliya
Often called “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is a charming town in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. One of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful tourist destinations is Nuwara Eliya, a 19th-century hill station that has managed to hold onto its colonial beauty with its mock-Tudor houses, golf course, and gentlemen’s clubs. This is one of the most picturesque places in Sri Lanka to take a picturesque hill country train trip.
The majority of Sri Lanka vacation packages, including the 7-day, 10-day, and 14-day tours, feature this hill country resort. As the train transports you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding tea plantations, waterfalls, and dramatic mountains. To end the ride would be too lovely! Trekking is a great way to take in Kandy’s natural splendor. During COVID-19, this is among the safest locations to visit Sri Lanka. During your two days in Rishikesh, Nuwara Eliya should be high on your list of things to see.
Key Attractions:
- Tea Plantations: Vast estates where you can learn about tea production.
- Gregory Lake: A man-made lake offering boating and other recreational activities.
- Victoria Park: A well-maintained park with a variety of flora.
- Horton Plains National Park: Known for the dramatic World’s End escarpment.
Why Visit: Nuwara Eliya offers a cool respite from the tropical heat, stunning landscapes, and insights into Sri Lanka’s tea industry.
Best Time to Visit: March to May for the best weather, but it can be chilly year-round.
5. Ella
A small, laid-back town in the hill country, Ella has become increasingly popular with travelers.
Key Attractions:
- A well-known railway bridge with a lot of vegetation is the Nine Arch Bridge.
- Little Adam’s Peak: offers panoramic views after a relatively easy hike.
- Ravana Falls: A scenic waterfall with a legendary connection to the Ramayana epic.
- Ella Rock: A challenging hike rewarded with spectacular views.
Why Visit: Ella offers beautiful scenery, great hiking opportunities, and a relaxed atmosphere popular with both backpackers and luxury travelers.
Best Time to Visit: February to April for the driest weather, but it’s pleasant year-round.
- Yala National Park
The most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, Yala is famous for its wildlife.
Key Attractions:
- Diverse Wildlife: Home to elephants, crocodiles, and one of the highest leopard densities in the world.
- Varied Landscapes: From scrub jungle to rocky outcrops and coastal lagoons.
- Bird Watching: Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the park.
Why Visit: Yala offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for those hoping to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.
Best Time to Visit: February to July, when water levels are low and animals gather around water holes.
7. Galle
Galle is a city in southern Sri Lanka that is well-known for its impressive Dutch fort, which is considered the best-preserved in Asia. Many couples believe that Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination for their honeymoon. Galle is well-known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and opportunities for sea sports and relaxation. Start your day with a peaceful morning on the white sands, enjoying the company of your loved one.
Located south of Galle, Ruhmassala and jungle beach offer breathtaking beaches surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a leisurely stroll in nature. By the way, make sure to visit an Ayurveda spa center and experience the incredible rejuvenating effects of the Ayurveda healing system. If you’re looking for a peaceful evening away from the hustle and bustle, Galle in Sri Lanka is a top choice for honeymooners. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with your partner as the sun goes down. This place in Sri Lanka is absolutely adorable and perfect for a romantic honeymoon.
Key Attractions:
- Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved colonial architecture.
- Dutch Reformed Church: A historic church dating back to the Dutch colonial era.
- National Maritime Museum: Showcases the maritime history of Galle.
- Galle Lighthouse: An iconic landmark within the fort.
Why Visit: Galle offers a unique blend of colonial charm, boutique shopping, and coastal beauty.
Best Time to Visit: December to April for the best weather.
- Mirissa
A small beach town on the south coast, Mirissa is known for its beautiful beaches and whale watching.
Key Attractions:
- Mirissa Beach: A crescent-shaped beach perfect for relaxation and surfing.
- Whale Watching: One of the best places in the world to spot blue whales.
- Secret Beach: A secluded beach away from the main tourist area.
- Coconut Tree Hill: An Instagram-famous spot with panoramic ocean views.
Why Visit: Mirissa offers a perfect balance of beach relaxation and marine adventures.
Best Time to Visit: November to April for whale watching and best beach weather.
9. Anuradhapura
One of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a sacred city for Buddhists.
Key Attractions:
- Sri Maha Bodhi: The oldest documented tree in the world, said to be a sapling from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Ruwanwelisaya: A massive white stupa, one of the world’s oldest monuments.
- Jetavanaramaya: Once one of the tallest structures in the ancient world.
- Abhayagiri Monastery: Ruins of an ancient monastic complex.
Why Visit: Anuradhapura offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan civilization and Buddhist heritage.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for drier weather.
10. Polonnaruwa
The second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa, is a testament to the country’s rich history. Polonnaruwa, which is the second city on the list, is well-known for its temples and is considered to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Many of the cultural trip packages that are offered in Sri Lanka include Polonnaruwa. If you were to spend a full day viewing the Polonnaruwa ruins, you might find yourself daydreaming about what life was like in the old city. As a result of the fact that these ruins have been so well preserved and are packed to the brim with ancient artifacts, it is difficult not to be fascinated by them. There are hundreds of historic buildings that may be discovered at this location. Some of these buildings include statues, stupas, and temples.
It is common knowledge that the land of temples, which also contains a plethora of monuments and cultural things that tell the story of its history and culture, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa is a well-known tourist destination that provides visitors with the opportunity to directly experience the culture of Sri Lanka.
As a consequence of this, you absolutely must go on a visit to Polonaruwa if you are interested in the different cultures, traditions, and civilizations of other people and if you have a spiritual attitude. In this location, you will be provided with the most precise information regarding the history and culture of Sri Lanka.
When one considers the things that will provide a glimpse into the history of Sri Lanka, one could wonder what exactly those objects are. The fact that the monuments and historic structures that were originally situated in this area are still standing is the answer to this question.
Key Attractions:
- Royal Palace Complex: Ruins of the ancient royal palace.
- Gal Vihara: Famous rock temple with large Buddha statues carved into granite.
- Rankoth Vehera: The largest stupa in Polonnaruwa.
- Parakrama Samudra: A vast man-made reservoir.
Why Visit: Polonnaruwa offers well-preserved ruins and insights into medieval Sri Lankan architecture and engineering.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for drier weather.
11. Dambulla
Known for its cave temple complex, Dambulla is an important part of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.
Key Attractions:
- Dambulla Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site with five caves containing statues and paintings related to Buddha and his life.
- Golden Temple: A modern Buddhist temple with a large golden Buddha statue.
- Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs: An ancient burial site dating back to the Iron Age.
Why Visit: Dambulla offers a unique blend of ancient art, architecture, and spiritual significance.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but December to April for drier weather.
12. Trincomalee
A port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is known for its natural harbor and beaches.
Key Attractions:
- Nilaveli Beach: A long, wide beach perfect for relaxation.
- Pigeon Island National Park: offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Koneswaram Temple: An ancient Hindu temple perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
- The Dutch and British later used Fort Frederick, a fort that Portuguese colonizers had built.
Why Visit: Trincomalee offers beautiful beaches, rich marine life, and a blend of colonial and Hindu heritage.
Best Time to Visit: April to October for the best beach weather.
13. Jaffna
The northernmost city of Sri Lanka, Jaffna offers a distinctly different culture and landscape.
Key Attractions:
- Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil: One of the most significant Hindu temples in Sri Lanka.
- Jaffna Fort: A Portuguese-built fort that the Dutch later expanded.
- Jaffna Public Library: A symbol of the city’s intellectual heritage.
- Casuarina Beach: A beautiful, often deserted beach.
Why Visit: Jaffna offers insights into Tamil culture and the opportunity to explore a less-visited part of Sri Lanka.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for drier weather.
14. Arugam Bay
A moon-shaped curl of soft sand on the southeast coast, Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka’s surfing capital.
Key Attractions:
- Surfing: World-class surf breaks suitable for various skill levels.
- Kumana National Park: offers excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- Elephant Rock: A large rock formation offering panoramic views.
- Whisky Point: A popular surf spot and beautiful beach.
Why Visit: Arugam Bay offers excellent surfing, a laid-back vibe, and proximity to less-visited natural attractions.
Best Time to Visit: April to October for the best surf conditions.
15. Udawalawe National Park
Known for its large elephant population, Udawalawe is one of Sri Lanka’s finest national parks.
Key Attractions:
- Elephant Sightings: High chances of seeing elephants in their natural habitat.
- Diverse Bird Life: Over 200 bird species recorded in the park.
- Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home: A rehabilitation center for orphaned elephant calves.
Why Visit: Udawalawe offers almost guaranteed elephant sightings and a less crowded safari experience compared to Yala.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but December to March for the best weather.
Planning Your Trip
When planning your Sri Lanka trip to these popular destinations in Sri Lanka, consider the following tips:
- Climate: Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, but weather patterns vary across the island. The country experiences two monsoon seasons affecting different regions at different times.
- Transportation: Hiring a car with a driver is a convenient way to explore multiple destinations. For certain routes, like Kandy to Ella, consider taking the scenic train journey.
- Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak season (December to March). Options range from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Remove shoes and hats when entering temples.
- Wildlife Safaris: Book in advance, especially for popular parks like Yala. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Beach Safety: Be cautious when swimming, as some areas have strong currents. Respect any warning signs.
- Food and Water: Enjoy the local cuisine but be cautious with street food. Drink bottled water.
- Sustainable Tourism: Support local communities by buying local products and using local guides. Respect wildlife and natural environments.
15. Pinnawala
When it comes to cuteness, is there anything more adorable than watching young elephants take a dip in a river? Because of a number of different factors, the Pinnawalla Elephant Orphanage is widely regarded as one of the most well-liked tourist spots in Sri Lanka. In the event that you discover that you are unwilling to leave this paradise, it will not be difficult to believe.
There are a number of different modes of public transportation that can be utilized to go the thirteen kilometers from Kegalle town to this location. This well-known vacation spot offers guests an experience that is completely unique and unforgettable. The sight of the baby elephants frolicking around and getting into trouble is an experience that could only be described as once in a lifetime. The only other perspective from which any of this can be seen is this one.
You are going to fall in love with this location for a variety of insignificant reasons, and this is one of them. When you are in Sri Lanka, you should make it a point to visit this location at some point because it is one of the most interesting things to see there.
A significant number of trip itineraries in Sri Lanka include a visit to the Pinnawala elephant orphanage. In Kandy, it is considered to be one of the best-known tourist attractions.
The address is B199, Rambukkana 71100, Sri Lanka.
The largest collection of elephants kept in captivity is one of the most notable examples.
Between the hours of nine in the morning and one in the afternoon, elephants go about their everyday activities. Between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM, the park is open for business.
The Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is easily accessible, as Kandy is located only 37 kilometers away from the facility. It is possible for you to board a train to Kandy and get off at the Kegalle hamlet, which is the next hamlet because that is where the orphanage is located. If you want to travel to the park from here, you can either take a car or a tuk-tuk.
16. Yala National Park
If you want to be amazed by the wildlife, Yala National Park is the place to go. It has one of the highest leopard populations in the world, so you should definitely go there. A sanctuary for big cats, this national park encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, including lagoons, forests, grasslands, and coastline. There are a number of places in Sri Lanka that you absolutely must visit, and one of them is the stunning natural surroundings. These surroundings wonderfully combine natural beauty with cultural heritage. There is no doubt that a journey to any of these breathtaking locations would be an experience that you will never forget. Once again, this location is frequently ranked among the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Approximately 200 kilometers separate it from the town of Bentota.
In addition to being one of the most well-known wildlife sanctuaries in that particular region of Sri Lanka, this particular sanctuary is also among the most well-known in the entire country. It is recommended that you rent a car in order to travel into the forest areas of the sanctuary. With this journey, you will have a lot of fun and exciting experiences to look forward to. There are many spots throughout the vehicle adventure into the jungle where you will have the opportunity to witness leopards and elephants. The very act of reading this text is enough to make one envision how thrilling a ride like that may even be. It is for this reason that tourists who come to Sri Lanka should not miss the opportunity to visit Yala National Park.
It is located in Yala, Sri Lanka, and is famous for the fact that it is home to a diverse collection of animals.
The months of February through June are the greatest time to visit since during this time of year, there is a greater likelihood of seeing animals because it is the dry season.
Directions to get there: It takes around one hour to get from Haputale to Yala National Park for any distance. Numerous cities, including Colombo, Ella, Kandy, and others, have direct trains that travel to Haputale.
Kumana National Park and the Ruhunu Maha Katagrama are both very popular destinations for tourists.
