10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka – Paradise in the Indian Ocean

Hikkaduwa is one of the most picturesque beaches in Sri Lanka. These beaches are perfect to lounge under a tree and read a book but they are also known for surfing, snorkelling and diving. Different beaches of the island are popular for different activities in Sri Lanka. Holiday packages offered by different hotels or tour guides are able to give you an idea of what you could be doing to get the best of your visit.

After a civil war that divided the country for almost 3 decades the capital city, Colombo has gone through some vast changes that have been the bridging gap between the international world and Sri Lanka. If you are not sure of places to visit in order to make the best of your time in Colombo it is advisable to contact a travel partner, such as Travel Design by CDC so that you get to experience the best.

Only an hour away from Colombo on the Southern Express Highway towards the South of the island, Galle is one of the most historically valuable cities in the island. Galle Fort which was first built by the Portuguese in the 1500s is one of the most picturesque places in the city where you can spend hours, walking around the Galle Fort visiting boutiques and restaurants.

This is a must visit for any animal and nature lovers. The Yala National Park is located in the South-east area of the island and is a protected area containing lagoons, grassland and a thick forest. There are more than a hundred different species that have been seen in this area and leopards, elephants and crocodiles are the most commonly sighted.

Sigiriya is known as the 8th world wonder by some, for the wonders that involve the making of this marvellous creation during King Kashyapa's reign. This natural rock was formed into a city and a fortress that had ponds, gardens, carvings and has some very famous paintings dating back to the era.

One of the most religiously and historically important places in the Island, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is a must visit the location in Kandy. The paintings, murals and the statues along with the history of the building which used to be a palace, are bound to keep you interested to know more about the city and the building.

The picturesquely glistening blue ocean spread far and wide is undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions to Trincomalee. The cultural and historical places spread around the city, such as the Hindu Kovil and the mosques make up for a perfect educational day of sightseeing.

Containing some of nature's finest creations including some beautiful waterfalls, greenery and hills Ella makes for a perfect location to visit for the nature lovers. Ella located in the Badulla district is accessible through one of the most beautiful train rides Sri Lanka has to offer.

Known for the religious and historic importance Dambulla city is known to be built in just 167 days. The city is enriched with both cultural and historical sites that call for a day out for sightseeing, includes the Golden Temple which is an extravagant location.

This is the ideal city to come and relax before you leave Sri Lanka as it is close to the airport and has beautiful beaches which will let you relax and enjoy some alone time before you head off to your next destination.