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Updated by Catelin Forbes on May 17, 2016
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Top Sightseeing Places in Sri Lanka – Land of a Thousand Attractions

Tropical Sri Lanka is blessed with so many diverse environs and lures you wonder how the small island encompasses it all. Explore rainforests, discover exotic wildlife, browse vintage relics and more.

1

The Cultural Triangle

The Cultural Triangle encompasses the cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy. The area is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites that chronicle over 2,500 years of history. The sacred city of Anuradhapura home to the country's first kingdom is so full of Buddhist relics it is the foremost pilgrimage destination in the country. Dambulla is home to the rock caves, where ancient artefacts are housed within the glowing confines of the beautiful caves inlaid with murals and statues of ancient gods and kings. Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka's premier tourist attractions home to the famous lions Rock Fortress; a treasured UNESCO Heritage Site the ancient citadel is a marvel to explore. Head over to Kandy and witness the hill capitals splendour. As you can see Sri Lanka holidays are chock full of the most awesome experiences; in order to savour all the country has to offer you need to book your holiday with a reputed tour operator offering knowledgeable guides and a comprehensive service.

2

Nuwara Eliya

Located at the highest altitude Nuwara Eliya is lovingly referred to as Little England. The chilly climate and hilly background certainly do justice to the nickname. Nuwara Eliya was created by the British colonists who have left behind many colonial type houses that dot the misty streets of beautiful Nuwara Eliya. Also known as the garden city Nuwara Eliya is dotted gardens that are riots of colour; especially during the high season of April. Guides such as Walkers Tours Sri Lanka will be your best bet for touring all the colonial sites of Nuwara Eliya, the famous Hakkgala Botanical Gardens and of course the magnificent Horton Plains. Horton Plains are the country's treasured bio reserves where cloud forest, unique flora and fauna as well as attractions such as Worlds End and the Bakers Falls are world famous attractions. A comprehensive tour will take you across the district including beautiful Ella and revered Sita Eliya – a place steeped in ancient legend.

3

Yala National Park

Located along south eastern coast of Sri Lanka Yala National Park is the largest protected nature reserve in the country. It is also home to Asia's largest collection of leopards. A jeep safari into the folds of the park is a very rewarding experience. There you will be treated to sights of Asian elephants, a huge range of amphibian species, bird species, reptiles and other exotic wild life. The unique savannah like environs of Yala is a treat and you will discover a range of unique flora dotting the landscape.

4

Old Dutch Fort of Galle

Galle is a popular southern coastal city. It is home to one of the country's largest attractions - the beautiful Old Dutch Fort. Built over the Galle harbour the fort is a remnant of Sri Lanka's colonial era. Enjoy the well preserved interiors boasting cobblestone streets, ancient Dutch villas, vintage churches and ramparts looking out to the magnificent Indian Ocean.

5

Adams Peak

Adams Peak is a mountain standing at an elevation of 2,243 metres above sea level; it is revered by many religions. The Buddhist believe a huge foot print there to be that of Lord Buddha while Muslims, Hindus and Christians too have their own interpretation of the imprint. Located in the district of Hatton Adams Peak is a predominantly Buddhist pilgrimage site - High season being between the months of January and April. The climb is tedious along granite and cement steps and is always attempted at dusk with the reward being a spectacular sunrise at the summit.