1. SIGIRIYA
Sigiriya is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka’s central province The Cultural Triangle. It can even be said that this is the most famous landmark of the country and the calling card of the island.
Also called Lion Rock or Lion Mountain, site is consisting of the ruins of an ancient stronghold that was built in the late 5th century CE on a remarkable monolithic rock pillar. The Sinhalese king Kashyapa I (reigned 477–495) built a palace in the shape of a monumental lion on the several acres of ground at the summit, intending it to be a safeguard against his enemies. However, the king was defeated in 495, and the palace fell into ruin. The site soon became a pilgrimage destination, however, and it is now a popular tourist spot. Visitors begin the final ascent to the top through the open paws of the lion, one of the few remaining portions of the palace that are still intact. Also notable are 21 rock paintings of apsaras (celestial singers and dancers). Sigiriya was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982.
2. KANDY
Kandy is the last Royal Kingdom of Sri Lanka with picturesque landscape surrounded by beautiful mountains located in the central part of the island positioned 1,600 feet above the MSL- Mean Sea Level. Kandy Sri Lanka is well known with the Sacred Tooth relic Temple which is most venerated Buddhist Temple and The Royal Botanic Gardens with more that 4,000 labeled species of flora and also Kandy is a “Planned City” during British colonial period of Ceylon. Considering these facts UNESCO declared Kandy as a UNESCO World Heritage. Today Kandy is the second most famous city of Sri Lanka with a total area of 1,940 SQ KM and major tourist attraction. Culturally, Kandy plays a vital role with the mix cultures of Sinhala & Tamil communities. Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic was built within the royal palace complex which houses the only surviving relic of Buddha.
During the month of August Kandy becomes highly crowded due to the Kandy Esala Perehera which is hosted as an annual tradition of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. It usually attracts a large number of local and foreign tourists who value tradition, customs and Buddhist heritage. This egregious night parade stalks more than 50 elephants along with colorful kandyan dancers and drummers.
3. ANURADHAPURA
Anuradhapura is one of the best tourist attractions in Sri Lanka where there is history and ancient culture to discover. The origin of Anuradhapura dates to 377 BC when it was a prominent place for economic and political activities.
Anuradhapura in the present time is a paradise for the history buff who are keener to explore the ruins, the archeological sites, and old temples. The city is religiously known for its beautiful temples and stupa for a very long time. While Anuradhapura was once neglected after the invasion in 9888 AD, it was soon marked as World Heritage Site to preserve its value. The Dagobas, Maha Bodhi tree, Brazen Palace, and Archeological Museum are some of the top places you can add to your attraction list. The array of religious and historical sites makes it the most significant attraction in Sir Lanka.
4. DAMBULLA
Dambulla situated in the Matale District of central Province of Sri Lanka It is 148 kilometers north-east of Colombo and 72 kilometers north of Kandy. Due to its location at a major junction, it’s the centre of vegetable distribution in the island. The vegitable market is huge here and worth a visit. Major attractions of the area include the largest and best preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka, and the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, famous for being built in just 167 days. The area also boasts the largest rose quartz mountain range in South Asia, and the Iron wood forest, or Na Uyana Aranya.
Dambulla cave temple is the largest and best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160 m over the surrounding plains. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding. Major attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain statues and paintings. This paintings and statues are related to Lord Buddha and his life from the dream of Maya to the distribution of ashes. There are a total of 153 Buddha statues, 3 statues of Sri Lankan kings and 4 statues of god and goddess. The latter 4 include two statues of Hindu gods, Vishnu and Ganesh. The murals cover an area of 2,100 m. Depictions in the walls of the caves include Buddha’s temptation by demon Mara and Buddha’s first sermon.
5. POLONNARUWA
Polonnaruwa, town, north-central Sri Lanka (Ceylon), near the Mahaweli River. It is an ancient capital that was long deserted but has been revived in modern times. Polonnaruwa (Polonnaruva) became the residence of Sri Lanka’s kings in 368 CE and succeeded Anuradhapura as the capital in the 8th century when the latter was captured by Tamils.
The modern town arose in the 20th century after the restoration nearby of an ancient irrigation reservoir to serve the needs of the surrounding agricultural region, in which rice and tobacco are grown. There is also a rail station. The town contains numerous temples and other Buddhist structures, most of them dating from the 12th century. The most-imposing remaining structure is a building 170 feet (52 metres) long with walls about 80 feet (24 metres) high and 12 feet (3.5 metres) thick. Many other great ruins have been carefully excavated and preserved. The ancient city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982.
6. ELLA
One of the finest Sri Lanka tourist places that every traveler would love to visit is Ella. Set in the middle of the countryside, this is a destination in Sri Lanka that boasts of its vegetable plots, tea plantations, and some breathtaking views of the forest and mountain. Over the years, Ella has emerged as one of the top choices for adventure seekers. It’s because of places like these that Sri Lanka today features amongst the best honeymoon destinations in Asia.
One can head over and see the majestic views through Ella Gap or indulge in a number of adventure activities like hiking, train rides through the mountains, and so much more. The best part about the whole experience is that travellers can easily reach Ella as the hill station is directly connected via train to the Colombo Fort Train Station.
7. NUWARA ELIYA
Nuwara Eliya is Sri Lanka’s hill station famed for its tea production. With a multitude of gorgeous attractions ranging from waterfalls and tea plantations to gardens and lakes, Nuwara Eliya is the epitome of scenic beauty. Add to that the colonial-style buildings dotting the area, a golf course and the cold climate— and you’ll feel like you have entered a world unlike Sri Lanka’s iconic landscape; no wonder it is also called Little England!
8. Adams Peak
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous places in Sri Lanka, Adams Peaks is a place that offers a breathtaking sunrise view from the top at dawn. Interestingly, Adams Peak is a biodiversity hotspot and is highly popular amongst travelers for a number of reasons. The hill station is nestled right in the middle of Sri Lanka and offers travelers a chance to catch a glimpse of the famous Sri Pada.One of the most famous places in Sri Lanka, Ari Pada is considered to be the footprints of Buddha and can be found in the form of a rock formation at the top of the mountain.
Likewise, Adams Peal isn’t just famous for its spiritual importance but also for the kind of beauty it offers to travelers. One can expect to find lush green areas here while views are majestic in every way.
9. GALLE
Nestled just 120 KM away from Colombo, the old town of Galle is another paradise that travelers should explore today. This is a place that will give you a European vibe as you go on to witness some European works here. Travelers coming here often plan their visit around the old town on a bike. In fact, bikes are concerned to be the best option to wander around the streets of Galle.
Interestingly, the fortifications around this old town have a vast history around them. It is believed that the construction of these fortifications was started by the Portuguese but later finished by the Dutch people. Today, it is a cultural world heritage site and one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka that attract thousands of visitors every year.
10. HIKKADUWA
Hikkaduwa, being one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka, is blessed with serene beaches adorning the aquamarine waters of the ocean. The soft sand and the lush beauty of the beaches not just adds more to its landscape but make it a hub for travelers on a rejuvenating holiday.
Calling you for some adventure and fun, Hikkaduwa is a perfect gateway for families, where they can embrace beauty and luxury. There are beach resorts and activities that include leisure and adventure. If you are on a week-long holiday, Hikkaduwa will be just the right pick to explore the beaches, enjoy the seafood, add some thrill with water adventure and relax amidst the most pristine landscapes. It is the laid-back beauty of Hikkaduwa that makes it so different from other beach destinations in Sir Lanka.
11. MIRISSA
Another of those tourist destinations in Sri Lanka popular for its whale-watching and serene beaches, it’s because of places like Mirissa why Sri Lanka features amongst the best honeymoon destinations in the world. It is a village where one can find a perfect escape from city life, soak in the sun on a hammock or relax at the beach. Travelers often love coming here due to the kind of peace this place offers.
Besides, as far as the locals here are concerned, Mirissa is home to a number of fishermen who live and do fishing. This not only gives travelers a chance to experience the life of a fisherman but also provides a chance to see some amazing fishes here like Tuna, and more.
12. UNAWATUNA
Unawatuna is a small coastal town (or rather even a village) on the south coast Sri Lanka, and a popular tourist destination for beach holidays. Unawatuna is located just a few kilometers from the larger city of Galle, the capital of the district of the same name, and is its suburb or district. The main feature and advantage of the resort is that you can relax here almost all year round. The main beach of the resort is conveniently located in the Bay, and is protected from waves by a coral reef, so even in strong winds the sea here remains much calmer than on other beaches. It is for this reason that Unawatuna is the most convenient place for families with children, including the youngest.
From entertainment, you can do water sports and entertainment, snorkeling, diving, take walks along the nearby jungle Massif towards Jungle Beach, or go to the neighboring Southern Beaches of Mrissa, Veligama, etc.but for surfers this place is completely unsuitable, the waves are too weak.
The tourist infrastructure in Unawatuna is quite well developed, there is everything for recreation and entertainment. On the main street of the district (Wella Dewala Rd) there are many travel agencies, shops, restaurants and cafes, there is a currency exchange, motorcycle and bicycle rental, day centres and dive shops, snorkelling equipment rental, motorcycle rental.
13. TRINCOMALEE
Trincomalee or as it is popularly known- the temple city is a great escape to avoid the hassle of crowded attractions in Sir Lanka. This is a scenic and pristine location that has a charm of nature. The gleaming beaches, the vibrant streets, the temples, and the history of Trincomalee make it just the right place where you can find peace.
The colonial architecture and the marine wonders are the major attraction in Trincomalee. Travelers here come to sought solace in its breathtaking beauty and mystical aura. The harbors, the waterfronts, the national parks, and the beaches, every corner of Trincomalee has some kind of magic that lures travellers from every corner of the world.
14. NEGOMBO
The golden sand, the cool breeze, and the soothing beach vibes of Negombo have made it a must-visit attraction in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of seashores and the coastal towns that are located close to the scenic city of Negombo. As you begin your journey to pamper yourself with the rejuvenating taste, the delighting food, and some exciting activities, Negombo beholds the charm to grant every desire.
The colonial-era fort and Dutch canal are some of the attractions that are still depicting the past. The city was once famous for its cinnamon plantations, and this was the reason why the Britishers, Dutch and Portuguese wanted to control the region. You can take a tour of old quarters and learn more about history and heritage.