7 best tourist attractions in Sri Lanka – Asia's hidden treasure chest

Also known as the Dutch Fort, the Galle Fort is a UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site that was built by the Dutch during their reign of the country more than 400 years ago. The fortress still retains most of its glory thanks to extensive repair and in modern day is one of the country's top tourist attractions that offer a wide variety of restaurants, bars, lodging options and museums.

Ella is a biodiversity hotspot located in the Uva district of Sri Lanka it is home to a large assortment of flora and fauna. The area is colder than most of the island because its located at a higher elevation and is a great place for nature walks and trekking. The Ella gap is a great place to get a view of Sri Lanka's southern plains and enjoy the sunrise.

While There are many beaches to choose from when you visit Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa beach is one of the island's most popular beaches because it has lots to see and things to do. The Hikkaduwa beach is known for its magnificent waves that are ideal for Surfing. The clear blue sea in Hikkaduwa is ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling. The city also has a vibrant nightlife that goes on until the break of dawn which attracts both locals and foreigners.

Even though Sri Lanka is a very small geographically, it has a huge variety of animal and bird species. The Yala national park is Sri Lanka's most popular destination that offers its visitors to witness a wide variety of animals, birds and plant species. Leopards, Sri Lankan elephants, Peacocks and wild boars are some of the types of animals that you should be on the lookout during your visit here. If you're a bird watcher then you're in for a treat as the park is home to more than 400 species of birds, 6 of which are endemic to Sri Lanka.

If you're looking for cultural_ things to do in Sri Lanka, then Kandy is the right place to be. The city is full of cultural and historical landmarks that tell the story of how it was Sri Lanka's last Kingdom before being invaded by the British. The best time to visit Kandy is during the month of August when the Asela Maha Perahara (The festival of lights) happens and the whole city comes to life during the night with religious processions consisting of traditional dancers, fire dancers and majestic elephants. While the trip to Kandy by train or vehicle will take around 3 hours from Colombo you can cut the time in half by flying via local airlines provider the likes of _Cinnamon Air.

Located in the Central province of Sir Lanka, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress that is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one of Sri Lanka's most revered historical monuments. Visitors who climb to the top of Sigiriya will be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

Sri Lanka's financial capital Colombo is brimming with shopping malls, clothing stores, bars, restaurants and is a great place to purchase souvenirs and local handicraft. If you'd like to make the most of the day and see only it's most important and interesting places of interests, hiring a local tour guide would be recommended as you could easily spend the day shopping and relaxing in Colombo without feeling the time go by.