7 Best Places To Visit in Sri Lanka

Let us explore the 7 best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka, then be prepared to witness the beauty in its natural form. It is an island nation brimming with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history. From lush tea plantations to pristine beaches and ancient temples, it offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Consider this article as your guide to plan your itinerary for Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya

Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering nearly 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this natural rock formation was transformed into a fortified palace by King Kasyapa in the 5th century.

You can climb a winding staircase past impressive frescoes and reach the summit, which reveals the remnants of the king’s palace, gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views. Sigiriya is also known for its intricate water gardens and unique mirror wall, which still retains graffiti from ancient visitors.

You can visit the Sigiriya museum at the base of the rock. This can be done while climbing down from the rock. The best time to climb the rock is early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is located in the central highlands. It is a beautiful hill town famous for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and tea plantations. It is often called “Little England.” You can still witness Nuwara Eliya’s British influence from its golf courses, gardens, and charming cottages.

The area is ideal if you enjoy scenic landscapes, and a trip to a tea plantation is a must for tea enthusiasts to witness the traditional tea-making process. Though you can visit Nuwara Eliya all year round, April is the best month as flowers bloom the most.

You can visit the tea plantations, go to Victoria Park, and also take a boat ride on Gregory Lake.

Kandy

Kandy is a historic city surrounded by lush hills. It is considered Sri Lanka’s cultural heart. Home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist site, Kandy is a city that celebrates traditions and religious practices.

The Kandy Esala Perahera, an annual festival featuring elaborate costumes, elephant parades, and dancers, is a must-see event that draws thousands of visitors each year. If you want to visit Kandy to experience this cultural festival, then plan your trip around July or August.

You can also book an evening show for the Kandyan cultural dance show that showcases all the folk dance forms of this nation. You can visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and Kandy Lake.

Ella

Ella is a small town surrounded by emerald-green hills. It has become a popular destination for travelers looking for a blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and hiking trails, Ella is a paradise for nature lovers.

The train ride from Kandy to Ella is one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys, offering views of rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages. So, to reach Ella from Kandy, make sure to book a train.

The best time to visit Ella is between January and April, as the skies are clear and the weather is very pleasant. Hiking to Ella Rock and visiting the Nine Arches Bridge are famous activities here.

If you are looking for a hotel in Ella check Majentra Ella.

Galle

Galle is located on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and beautiful beaches. The Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch.

It is a highlight with cobbled streets, quaint cafes, and unique boutiques. Walking around the fort’s ramparts, especially at sunset, provides stunning ocean views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. November to April is the best time to visit the beach and also explore the fort. This is because the climate is a bit cooler.

Visiting Unawatuna Beach and the National Maritime Museum are few other things that you can try. The National Maritime Museum is closed on Sunday and Monday. On other days, the visiting hours are between 9 am and 5 pm.

Colombo

Colombo is the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. It is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers blend with colonial buildings and temples. Known for its vibrant street markets, upscale shopping malls, and lively culinary scene, Colombo is an exciting city to explore.

You must visit the Gangaramaya Temple and Viharamahadevi Park, or spend an evening at Galle Face Green, a popular oceanside promenade. To enjoy more of Colombo, you can visit here between November and March. The dry and cool weather makes the perfect time to enjoy each and every corner of Sri Lanka.

Pettah Market is the most famous here. If you want to shop, you will find here everything from textiles to jewellery, handicrafts and even spices.

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is located in the southeast part of Sri Lanka. It is the country’s most famous wildlife reserve, known for its high density of leopards. You can go on a safari to spot a variety of animals, including elephants, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.

The diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and lagoons provides an ideal environment for wildlife, making Yala a must-visit destination for nature lovers. February to June is an ideal time to explore Yala as the water levels are lower, making animal sightings more frequent.

You can opt for a Jeep safari inside the park. Sithulpawwa Rock Temple is a nearby site in case you wish to explore.

Conclusion

These are the 7 best places to visit in Sri Lanka. From history and culture to serene beaches, these 7 places cover almost every aspect of your Sri Lankan journey. If you want to travel in such a way that you get to see most of Sri Lanka, then you must visit these places. Make sure to pre-plan your journey so you can visit nearby places altogether.

Visit Sri Lanka Tour Guides to get more information.