5 Most Beautiful Spots in Sri Lanka – The Most Essential Experiences the Island has to Offer

This is easily one of the most popular attractions the country has to offer and has only recently opened up to the public after the conclusion of the three-decade long civil war the nation underwent. The park's name translates into 'land of lakes', and it's definitely a very appropriate name considering that there are several sand-rimmed bodies of water situated throughout the area. This is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard, but the park also boasts a bounty of other creatures as well, especially elephants. The best times to visit this park would be from February until October.

It would be a shame to visit the island and not experience one of her most ancient cities, and one of the oldest consistently inhabited places in the world. According to archaeological data, there have been human civilisations present in Anuradhapura since 10 B.C, although little is known about the people that thrived there before 5 B.C. The ancient city of Anuradhapura was established sometime between 500 BC and 250 BC, by Pandukabhaya, and the ruins of this age-old metropolis can still be seen. This city thrived because it was surrounded by fertile land that was in turn surrounded by thick forest, making it difficult for invaders to discover the city.

It's hard to find a place in the world that is of immense religious significance to many spiritual philosophies, but Adam's Peak is that incredibly rare example. This massive mountain has an indentation at its summit that resembles a massive footprint, and three major religions, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam each have their own beliefs associated with this footprint. The Buddhists believe it belongs to Lord Buddha, the Hindus are convinced the footprint is the work of Lord Shiva, while the Muslims believe it was caused when Adam, the first man, laid foot on Earth. Climbing to the top of Adam's Peak is an adventure of a lifetime and will definitely be an experience you won't forget.

Easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, Galle is a sleepy town that lies south of Colombo where you can immerse yourself in a fascinating landscape that wears its colonial roots on its sleeve. This delightfully vintage city is full of captivating Dutch architecture, narrow cobblestone streets and a stretch of beautiful coastline. You can explore the iconic Dutch Fort which is one of the last of its kind in all of South Asia. The drive to Galle is quite tranquil, and you can easily find a transport option from places that offer car rental in Sri Lanka with examples including Casons Rent a Car.

There's nothing like concluding your Sri Lankan adventure at a beautiful stretch of beach, and Bentota is one of the most pristine coastal landscapes to be found on the western side of the island. There are so many attractions as well, from luxury resorts to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery where you can interact with several of the rarest kinds of sea turtles in the world.