10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for First-time Visitors - Thrills and spills of teardrop of Asia

Dreaming to spend an amazing beach vacation? Spend some lovely days at Tangalle beach and realize your fantasies. The longs long stretches of sandy shores and blue turquoise waters will take your breath away. This will be an ideal spot to spend hours of quietude and peace since it's located away from the hustles and bustles of the city. If you are staying at one of the many hotels like Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, you can spend an amazing beach holiday while discovering some of the iconic pilgrimage sites, fishing ports, and top Tangalle restaurants in the area.

It's just a short tuk-tuk ride away from Weligama to Mirissa, one of the quietest beach hideaways along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The laid-back atmosphere of the beach will draw your heart to spend more time at this beach. You'll come across many restaurants and cafes selling fresh and delicious seafood. The western end of the bay is perfect for surfers to try out riding on the huge waves.

If you come to Weligama and don't go surfing, then you've done a huge mistake. The waves are perfect for beginners. It is a popular surfing hangout with many beach bars and hotels featuring some of the best things to do in Matara. There are plenty of interesting chronicles about 'Mahavalukagama' meaning big sandy city. This wonderful port city has historical records of many ships that used to be anchored from time immemorial.

This temple has gained much popularity among locals and tourists for its gargantuan seated Buddha waiting to greet all pilgrims who set foot on this religious complex. There are three main areas in the temple. One area belonging to the 18th Century with ancient architectural values, the area with the 160 feet tall giant Buddha statue and finally the Tunnel of Hell which evokes curiosity of all travellers who visit this place.

Climbing Sigiriya Rock is one of the top reasons why many tourists travel to Sri Lanka. While the Lion Rock speaks volumes of rich culture and dramatic features like Mirror Wall and Lion's Paw, Pidurangala rock has a natural feel. Located adjacent to the Sigiriya Rock the summit of Pidurangala is famous for its dramatic sunrise. It's the perfect spot to enjoy 360-degree views of Sigiriya as well as the surrounding valleys.

What better way to start the day than going on a hiking trip with your friends? Just because it is called 'Little' Adam's Peak it does not imply that this place is less amazing. It will take about an hour to reach the summit and if you wish to take some time off the hike, consider hiring a tuk-tuk up to starting point of the trail at Ravana Zipline.

Spending time near a cascading waterfall is always a treat. Ravana Falls is huge and impressive and obviously, it can be easily reached from Ella. Apart from having a leisurely swim, adventure seekers have the opportunity to climb nearby rocks offering awe-inspiring views of Ella's treasured surroundings.

Despite its appealing biological endemism, Sri Lanka is one of the world's top five biodiversity hotspots. Sri Lanka is home to one of the three types of Asian elephants. Due to its largest concentration of elephants, leisure travellers from all around the world spare time to go on an elephant-watching safari to Yala. Your safari tour will be incomplete if you fail to spot a Sri Lankan leopard.

Horton plains, its adjoining Peak Wilderness and surrounding forests speak volumes of Sri Lanka's most important catchment area. The plains serve as natural habitats for diverse endemic wild animals of both wet and montage zones. Its flora has a high level of endemism. You will not regret making a visit here!

One of the most talked-about things to do in Sri Lanka! As the sun rises, the viewpoint at Lipton's Seat looks amazing with its stunning views. Do not forget to capture a photo with Thomas Lipton (statue) who was known as the pioneer of tea. It is just an hour's drive from Ella.