Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a remarkable island country located in the Indian Ocean. It is also called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” and holds a special place in every visitor’s eye due to its lush green stunning landscapes, rich cultural and historical heritage, diverse range of wildlife and delicious local delicacies.

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 You can find a wide array of attractions, from ancient ruins and temples to tea plantations and beaches, all of which provide you with an enriching experience. This destination is suitable for all kinds of travellers, whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature or beach lover, a history enthusiast or just want to have a serene retreat away from busy lives. If this has convinced you, then keep reading to find out about the top 10 must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka to have the time of your life!

Sigiriya is an ancient city that is located in the Matale district in the Central Province of the country. It is one of the most popular attractions in the country and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wherein you get to witness the spectacular architecture and also find wonderful frescoes, a mirror wall and peaceful gardens, all of which were built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century. An additional selling point to this destination, is that if you love adventure and nature, then the climb to the summit offers splendid views of the surrounding trees and plains.

The next stop to add to your Sri Lanka tour package must be to the scenic cultural and spiritual hub of Sri Lanka, Kandy, which is located in the central region. The Temple of Tooth Relic, which holds a sacred tooth of Lord Buddha, is a must visit. If you are looking for beautiful scenery to escape amidst the busy crowds, then you can visit the Kandy Lake and Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. However, if you want to enjoy the cultural festivities and feel like a local, then attend the annual Esala Perahera festival, which features the elephants, fire performers and dance shows.

Among the top must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka is Ella, as it calls out to all the nature and adventure lovers who are looking to have a fabulous experience. Make sure to visit the Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural colonial-era railway marvel built amongst the lush greenery, making it a true spectacle to witness. Hikers can take a trek up to Adam’s Peak while also getting to admire the tranquil views of the valleys. Additionally, you can also visit the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, the Diyaluma Falls and find yourself getting lost in the serene energy that it offers.

If you are someone who loves to enjoy the historical charm and heritage of a country, then you must visit Galle, as it has a number of historically significant landmarks and is decked with Dutch colonial buildings, ancient mosques, churches and even mansions. One such attraction is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was built in the 16th century and houses cobblestone streets, charming cafes, boutique shops and colonial-era buildings for visitors to explore. You can also catch breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean by visiting the Galle Lighthouse or even visit the National Museum of Galle that caters to the history buffs.

The Yala National Park is a paradise land for all animal lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It houses the largest population of leopards in the world, which brings this destination to the top 10 must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka. In addition to this, you can also find elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and a wide variety of bird species in their ecosystem by going on a safari tour through the park.

Nuwara Eliya is a beautiful hill station that will make its visitors feel like they have stepped into the colonial era. It has a cool climate, charming British-style bungalows and manicured gardens, making it the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The Horton Plains National Park provides a great hike to World’s End, where you get to enjoy gorgeous cliffside views. In addition to this, you can also see Gregory Lake, which is a perfect spot for boating and picnics.

Mirissa offers the perfect coastal getaway with its golden beaches and crystal clear waters. You get to enjoy the calm and laid-back energy of this destination and enjoy marine activities like whale watching or even get that much-needed adrenaline rush by going surfing and snorkeling. After enjoying an amazing time engaging in waterside activities, unwind by the beachside cafes and bars and rejoice at the wholesome beach day.

Polonnaruwa is one of the top attractions in Sri Lanka for all the history buffs, as it is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also has the most well-preserved ruins from the ancient civilisation. If you want to experience the best of this region, make sure to visit the Gal Vihara, which is a group of magnificent Buddha statues carved into rock, the majestic Royal Palace, and the Vatadage which is a used relic house for Buddha.

A trip to Sri Lanka must include a visit to Colombo because this active city achieves perfection by uniting colonial heritage with contemporary developments. The Gangaramaya Temple offers visitors a unique architectural experience because it merges elements from Sri Lankan and Thai architecture alongside Indian and Chinese traditions. You can find every spice and textile at Pettah Market for your shopping enjoyment while the Colombo National Museum presents a historic experience.

Located on the north eastern coast of the country, it is one of the top 10 must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is known for its gorgeous beaches, lively nightlife and rich cultural heritage. You can partake in waterside activities such as snorkelling and diving while admiring the colourful coral reefs at Nilaveli Beach and Pigeon Island National Park. For some cultural exploration, visit Koneswaram Temple, which is an ancient Hindu temple located on top of a cliff that offers breathtaking views of the ocean. To get the most out of your trip to Sri Lanka, consider using Pickyourtrail to book a carefully planned itinerary for a smooth journey.