Joanna James
Sri Lanka is packed with amazing attractions at every corner of the island. Here are a few of the best places to visit for your next trip.
Built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century CE this huge monolith was a rock fortress for the patricidal king. He usurped the throne and moved the capital to Sigiriya from Anuradhapura. Remnants of the palace can be seen from the top of its summit. The palace grounds are filled with ponds and caves well.
Located in the hill capital of Kandy, which was incidentally the last independent kingdom before the British handed over the country. The temple houses the sacred tooth relics of Lord Buddha is an ornately gold decorated shrine. The art and sculpture are amazing here too.
Originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century it was later renovated and further fortified by the Dutch. Within the fort, you will find many Dutch buildings, a lighthouse, fancy shops and restaurants, museums, hotels and the beach!
The first kingdom of Sri Lanka. The Ruwanweliseya dagoba and Jetavanaramaya are considered the largest in the stupas in the world. The sacred city is surrounded by remnants of an ancient civilization. Just hop on a bike and explore!
The second kingdom of Sri Lanka is an amazing place with many ruins, such as the king's palace and ancient stupas. Explore the ancient city by bike.
This famous beach town is ideal for water sports lovers. Surfing and whale watching is very popular. It also has some great photo-worthy stops, such as coconut hill and parrot hill.
Another famous beach town just a few kilometres away from Galle. Famous for its active beachside nightlife and gorgeous views. While there check out the peace pagoda and the jungle beach.
Also known as Adam's Peak is probably the most sacred mountain in Sri Lanka. Buddhists believe the footprint of Lord Buddha is placed at the summit. The sunrise at the summit is amazing.
Situated in the hill country, this is the highest altitude national park in Sri Lanka. The scenery is amazing and the climactic World's End is a 90 m drop. On a clear day, even the coastline can be spotted.
An ancient Buddhist monastery with a rich folklore history. It is now a protected forest reserve. You will find many ruins amidst thick dense jungles.
The city is located on the northernmost tip and has a completely different vibe from the rest of the island. Attractions include the Jaffna Fort, Nallur Kandasmay Kovil. Elephant Pass, beautiful beaches and tasty food.
Located in the city of Dambulla, this World Heritage Site is built upon a rock and has many caves featuring beautiful monuments and frescoes of the Buddha and his disciples. The city has some amazing luxury resorts In Sri Lanka as well. Groups like Heritance Hotels is known to have famous hotels here.
In recent times has become a backpacker haunt and a bohemian vibe has overtaken the town. It is famous for its beautiful hiking trails such as Ella rock, mini-Adams Peak, nine arch bridge and many waterfalls.
Situated on the east coast this beautiful fishing village is a famous surfing spot and hosts many events during the high season.
See the Sri Lankan elephant, the elusive leopard, sloth bear, peacocks, buffaloes, spotted dear in the most famous national park on the island.
This pretty uphill station used to be known as Little England. A vacation spot during colonial times the tradition continues among the locals. The city is surrounded by tea plantations, a lake, a golf course, parks, riding tracks and quaint architecture.
A port city situated on the northeast coast of the island. The city is full of attractions such as Fort Federick, Konneswaram Temple, Gokanna Temple, Pigeon Island, and many exquisite beaches.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the last remaining virgin rain forest in Sri Lanka. 50 % of endemic mammals and 90 % of birds live here.
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