During the history of this small island off the southeast coast of India, several cultures have influenced it. It is because of this that Sri Lanka has many different architecture styles, cultures, religious traditions, and landscapes, and a lot of the reasons for this interesting yet distinctive draw to some of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit.
British colonial buildings can be experienced, then step through the jungles to see elephants and leopards – where else will that be done in the world?
The 10 best places to visit in Sri Lanka are here without further ado.
1.) Kandy
Kandy is one of the major towns in Sri Lanka as well as the capital, Colombo. This vibrant town is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka as it was once the seat of the Kings of Sri Lanka, situated in the center of the island.
Kandy has several excellent locations, such as Tooth Temple, Kandy Clock Tower, and Sarachchandra Theatre, owing to its lengthy history and significance.
In the wonderful Sri Lankan Weather (long short story – very hot here, time spent on the lake is much appreciated) Lake Kandy also offers a lot of boating opportunities!
2.) Colombo
Colombo is situated on the west coast of the island and is the capital of Sri Lanka and has an eclectic blend of modern architecture and historical buildings.
Besides being one of Sri Lanka’s best places to visit, this will probably be one of the first places you visit as most contacts and trips begin right here.
The World Trade Center towers and the Bank of Ceylon Tower will amaze you if you love high-rise facilities.
Alternatively, a visit to the Murugan Temple Hindu and the Jami Ul-Afar Mosque is a must if you prefer traditional buildings!
3.) Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a major city, the capital of Sri Lanka’s northern province, full of historical sites and old ruins.
One of the main reasons why it is one of the best spots in Sri Lanka is its interesting history – as once was Sri Lanka’s capital!
The ruins of the monastery of Abhayagiria and Kuttam Pokuna – both of them with beautiful structures from thousands of years ago – are visited in many areas.
Face the architecture, the sculpture and the style of the statues and temples are a must for guided tours of this beautiful archeological site.
4.) Galle
Galle is a city situated on Sri Lanka’s southern tip and is known for its fortification into the Indian Ocean.
Galle itself has a number of wonderful attractions, but it is definitely the main venue. From the Fort Clock Tower to the Flagrock Bastion on the most southern tip of the walls of the fortification.
The fort is spectacular, and if you want to learn more about this historic building, a trip to Galle National Museum is important.
5.) Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is not as such a city but is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant and best-preserved archeological sites.
Polonnaruwa’s ancient city is a UNESCO World Patrimony and another must-see during your Sri Lankan journey. Again, this is another old town of Sri Lanka, making it one of the most beautiful sights to visit.
Within the site, there are countless shrines and ruins, which, considering their huge age, are in fantastic condition.
6.) Negombo
Take a tour to Negombo if you’re tired of vision and want to relax.
It is a beautiful stretch of beach on the western side of Sri Lanka. Both Browns Beach and Negombo Beach themselves are perfect places to just sit, sit and rejuvenate in the sun.
There are also good hotels in Negombo and transport links to other parts of Sri Lanka can be found on the Kuttuwa Train.
7.) Hikkaduwa
Mainly a resort at the sea, Hikkaduwa is a paradise for surfers and is renowned for its stunning swells, golden beaches, and great weather.
In Hikkaduwa National Park, which is also a coral refuge and also the residence of turtles, you can dive and snorkel in the sea, if you love marine ecology.
8.) Arugam Bay
Apart from some of the other famous beach resorts in Sri Lanka, Arugam is another great surfing spot.
Arugam is a sublime destination and a must-visit, situated on the country’s southeast coast if you enjoy surfing and beach life. Waves are fine, soft beaches golden and attractive, with picturesque scenery.
9.) Yala National Park
Just a short drive from Arugam Bay, Yala, and its national park, if you are interested in the untamed and raw wildlife, are among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Yala itself is a small village with some simple camping facilities and the office for the national park.
This beautiful place offers tours and most visitors come to see the fascinating wildlife of elephants and leopards. The Park is spacious and the wildlife is amazing – Yala really is a dream for nature lovers!
10.) Nuwara Eliya
This peaceful and lovely city of Sri Lanka has situated a short distance to the south of Kandy, in central Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its beautiful scenery, colonial architecture, and typical plants of tea production.
This city is also frequently used as a base for those who want to explore and experience the magnificent Horton Plains National Park and its epic tropical landscapes.
