Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation in South Asia, in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history and culture, and stunning beaches. The country has a diverse population and is home to various wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and monkeys.
The capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, but its largest city is Colombo. The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil, and the currency is the Sri Lankan rupee.
Here are the Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
1. Sigiriya
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in central Sri Lanka. It was built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa and is considered one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The fortress is on top of a 200-meter-high rock and includes impressive features such as water gardens, frescoes, and a lion’s paw entrance. Sigiriya is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka.
2. Kandy
Kandy is a city located in central Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the ancient kings’ era and is famous for its rich history, cultural significance, and scenic beauty.
The city is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and is considered one of the most sacred places of worship for Buddhists worldwide. Kandy is also known for its botanical gardens, which are home to a wide variety of plant species, including orchids and palm trees. The city is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
3. Yala National Park
Yala National Park is a nature reserve located in the southeast region of Sri Lanka. It is the second-largest national park in the country and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and many species of birds. The park features diverse ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and lagoons. Yala National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and offers various activities, including safari tours and camping.
4. Galle
Galle is a coastal city located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s main attraction is the Galle Fort, a historic fortress built by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort features a maze of streets, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Galle is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Unawatuna, one of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka. The city is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
5. Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya is a city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is known for its scenic beauty, lush green hills, and tea plantations. The city is situated at an elevation of 1,868 meters above sea level. It has a cooler climate than most other parts of Sri Lanka, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the heat.
Nuwara Eliya is also known for its colonial-era architecture and is sometimes referred to as “Little England.” The city is home to a variety of tourist attractions, including Lake Gregory, Victoria Park, and Horton Plains National Park.
6. Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is an ancient city located in the north-central region of Sri Lanka. It was the second capital of the country and served as the seat of power for several ancient kingdoms. The city features impressive archaeological sites, including ancient palaces, temples, and monasteries, many of which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Gal Vihara, a rock temple with four giant Buddha statues, and the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu. Polonnaruwa is a popular destination for history and culture enthusiasts, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich past.
7. Adam’s Peak
Adam’s Peak, also known as Sri Pada, is a mountain located in central Sri Lanka. It is a sacred site for multiple religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. The mountain features a distinctive conical shape and stands 2,243 meters high.
At the summit, there is a footprint-shaped impression, which is considered sacred by many religions and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. The climb to the summit is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The best time to climb Adam’s Peak is from December to May when the weather is favorable.
8. Ella
Ella is a small town located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including stunning waterfalls, lush tea plantations, and scenic hikes. The town is at an elevation of 1,041 meters above sea level and offers visitors a cooler climate than most other parts of Sri Lanka.
One of the most popular attractions in Ella is the Ella Rock hike, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Other popular attractions in Ella include the Nine Arch Bridge, which is a picturesque railway bridge, and Ravana Falls, a beautiful waterfall. Ella is a popular destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
9. Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is an ancient city located in the north-central region of Sri Lanka. It was the first capital of the country and served as the seat of power for several ancient kingdoms. The city features impressive archaeological sites, including ancient temples, monasteries, and palaces, many of which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, and the Isurumuniya Temple. Anuradhapura is a popular destination for history and culture enthusiasts, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich past.
10. Mirissa
Mirissa is a coastal town located in the southern region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere. The city is situated along the Indian Ocean and offers visitors the opportunity to engage in various water sports and activities, including surfing, snorkeling, and whale watching.
One of the most popular attractions in Mirissa is the Mirissa Whale Watching Tour, which takes visitors on a boat ride to spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat. The town is also known for its lively nightlife, featuring beachside bars and restaurants. Mirissa is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relaxing beach getaway.
11. Bentota
Bentota is a coastal town located in the southwest region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. The city is situated along the Indian Ocean and offers visitors the opportunity to engage in various water activities, including surfing, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
One of the most popular attractions in Bentota is the Bentota River, where visitors can take a boat ride to explore the mangrove forests and spot various species of birds and animals. The town is also known for its Ayurvedic spas, which offer a range of wellness treatments and massages. Bentota is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relaxing beach vacation with plenty of activities and amenities.
12. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an orphanage located in Pinnawala, Sri Lanka, which is home to over 80 orphaned and abandoned elephants. The orphanage was established in 1975 with the goal of providing care and protection for these elephants.
Visitors to the orphanage can watch the elephants as they are fed, bathed, and taken for walks, providing an up-close experience with these gentle giants. The orphanage also operates a breeding program to ensure the survival of the Sri Lankan elephant population. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a popular tourist attraction and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with these majestic creatures.
13. Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife reserve located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1972 and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.
The park covers an area of over 300 square kilometers and features diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands. Visitors to the park can take a safari tour to observe the wildlife and explore the natural beauty of the park. Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants in their natural habitat, and it offers visitors a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience.
14. Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in central Sri Lanka. It is a complex of five cave temples that date back to the 1st century BC and feature hundreds of ancient statues and murals depicting the life of the Buddha.
The temple complex is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Buddhist art in Sri Lanka and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Visitors must climb a steep staircase to reach the temple complex, but the effort is well worth it, as the stunning views from the top and the intricate art and architecture of the cave temples are truly awe-inspiring. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Sri Lanka.
15. Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a coastal town located in the southwestern region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. The city offers visitors the opportunity to engage in various water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.
The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary, located just offshore, is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers, as it is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks. The town is also known for its lively nightlife, featuring beachside bars and restaurants. Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for travelers looking for a beach vacation with plenty of water activities and nightlife.
16. Colombo
Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and the country’s commercial capital. Located on the west coast of the island, Colombo is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a vibrant culture. The city offers visitors a range of attractions, including historical landmarks, cultural sites, shopping centers, and entertainment venues.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Colombo include the National Museum of Colombo, the Gangaramaya Temple, the Independence Memorial Hall, and the Galle Face Green promenade. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, which reflects a blend of influences from Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and British cultures. Colombo is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the vibrant energy of a bustling Asian city with a rich history and culture.
17. Jaffna
Jaffna is a city located in the northernmost region of Sri Lanka. It is the cultural capital of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and has a rich history and culture. The city was heavily affected by the Sri Lankan Civil War, but has since undergone significant reconstruction and is once again becoming a popular destination for visitors.
Jaffna offers visitors a range of attractions, including historic landmarks, cultural sites, and beautiful beaches. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Jaffna include the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, the Jaffna Fort, and the Jaffna Public Library. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features a blend of Indian and Sri Lankan flavors. Jaffna is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience the unique culture and history of Sri Lanka’s northern region.
18. Trincomalee
Trincomalee is a coastal city located in the eastern region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The town offers visitors a range of attractions, including the Koneswaram Temple, the Trincomalee Harbor, and Fort Frederick.
The beaches of Trincomalee are among the best in Sri Lanka, with clear blue waters and pristine sand. Visitors can also take a boat trip to nearby Pigeon Island, which is home to a marine sanctuary and a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Trincomalee is also known for its delicious seafood and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. The city is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s eastern region.
19. Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park is a protected area located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is a unique ecosystem characterized by montane grasslands, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several endemic species, including the Sri Lankan sambar deer, purple-faced langur, and the Sri Lankan leopard.
The most famous attraction in the park is the World’s End, a sheer cliff that drops 880 meters into the valley below, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails through the park, which lead to other scenic spots like Baker’s Falls and Kirigalpotta Peak, the second-highest peak in Sri Lanka. Horton Plains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who want to experience the unique beauty and wildlife of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
20. Negombo
Negombo is a coastal city located in the western region of Sri Lanka, just a short drive from the international airport in Colombo. It is known for its long stretch of golden beaches, lagoon, and Dutch-era architecture. The city offers visitors a range of attractions, including the Negombo Fish Market, the Negombo Lagoon, and the St. Mary’s Church.
Visitors can also enjoy water sports like surfing and kiteboarding, as well as boat rides on the lagoon. Negombo is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, and visitors can sample fresh seafood at the many restaurants and cafes in the city. The city is a popular destination for travelers looking for a relaxing beach vacation, and its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient stopover destination for those en route to other parts of the country.