5 Amazing Places to Visit in Sri Lanka – Nothing like you've seen before

Adams Peak or Sri Pada as it's more commonly referred to as is a pilgrimage site common to Buddhists, Christians and even Hindu's. Buddhist believes that the sacred footprint located at the top of the mountain belonged to Buddha as he entered paradise while Christians believe it was left by Adam when he was cast of heaven, while some say it was left by St. Thomas on his visits to India. The poya in December marks the start of the pilgrimage season which ends in May, during the Vesak season. During this period tourists and foreigners alike climb to the summit of the mountain to witness the large footprint and enjoy the view.

Surrounded by tourist landmarks such as the Kosgoda turtle hatchery and Galapatha Raja Maha Vihara Buddhist temple is Bentota; a tourist hotspot perfects enjoying one of the best beaches southern Sri Lanka has to offer and engage in activities like water sports and helicopter ride. Tourists have a wide variety of chic resorts, boutique hotels, villas and some fine ayurveda retreat Sri Lanka has to offer to choose from.

Located roughly 92 km past Bentota and in close proximity to the Soul Resorts in Matara is Mirissa another tourist hotspot located on the southern coastal stretch of Sri Lana which is known for its whale and dolphin watching and reputed nightlife. Mirissa's pale powdery sand and clear water make it the ideal location to soak up the sun and relax. Mirissa is also a good place to learn surfing as there isn't a big crowd. October to March is when the weather conditions are ideal for surfing and when there you'll see an influx of amateur and professional surfers. In addition, you can also plan a day trip to Unawatuna and the Galle Fort. Unawatuna is known for its beach which is perfect for snorkelling and its vibrant nightlife which is famous amongst the local and foreign visitors. The Galle Fort was built during the 18th century to act as headquarters of the Dutch and since has been renovated to host a bustling city filled with handicrafts shops and restaurants serving a variety of food to cater to its vast tourist population.

Kandy is a world heritage site located on a highland in the middle of the central highland mountains which is rich in Sinhalese culture. The Temple of the Tooth Relic built during the 4th century is home to one of the sacred relics, Buddha's tooth. The Kandy Lake which dominates the town is excellent for an evening stroll and observe the scenery Kandy has to offer. Summer is the best time to visit Kandy as the Esala Perahera festival happens during this time.

Pinnawala is located in the northeast between Sri Lanka's commercial capital Colombo and Kandy and is home to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. The orphanage was established by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) to protect and tend to the orphaned wild elephants that wander the nearby forests. The orphanage acts as a captive breeding ground and nursery for wild Asian Elephants. As of 2011 Pinnawala was home to 10,965 elephants from 3 generations.