Sri Lanks Popular Tourist Destinations

Sri Lanka offers a rich diversity of sights & sensations. The major destinations in Sri Lanka offer you varied experiences; ranging from the glorious past to the soothing nature and from buzzing city life to serene beaches. A fragrant potpourri of chaotic & soothing, all within hours of each other, await you in this miniature island nation.

Colombo
Colombo, the modern capital, is the gateway to Sri Lanka. This vibrant city is an unparalleled combination of the bygone days and the vivacious present. Swanky high rise buildings rub shoulders with elegant red tiled-colonial constructions; glitzy shopping malls stand tall along with lively street markets; and the spiritual Buddhist temples offer respite from the hustle-bustle of the city life. Historical & religious hallmarks, haggling traders in colorful markets, honking tuk tuks & mouthwatering “Kothu” sum up the essence of Colombo.

Major attractions in Colombo

• Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
• Viharamahadevi Park
• Clock Tower cum Lighthouse
• Galle Face Green
• Pettah
• Colombo National Museum
• National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka
• Beira lake
• Colombo Dutch Museum
• Kelniya Raja Maha Vihara

Kandy
Kandy, the second largest town in the country is located in the central province and was the last capital of the Sinhala kingdom. This heartland of Sri Lanka, with its fresh mornings, forested hills, sacred temples and colorful houses, makes a picturesque tourist destination. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines across the globe.

Major attractions in Kandy

• Dalanda Maligawa orTemple of the Tooth Relic
• Peradeniya Botanic Gardens
• Kandy Lake
• Kandy Esela Perahera
• The International Buddhist Museum
• Degaldoruwa Rock Temple
• Lankatilake Temple
• Gadaladeniya Temples
• Udawattekelle Sanctuary
• Ceylon Tea Museum
• Naththaranpotha Craft Village

Galle
The fortified city of Galle, located on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, is a combination of heritage buildings and expansive beaches. Invaded by the Portuguese, colonized by the Dutch and later ruled by the British; the city reflects an eclectic blend of cultures and civilizations. An important port in the past and now a vibrant piece of history, Galle has been declared a Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Major Attractions in Galle

• Flag Rock
• Whale Watching on Mirissa Beach
• Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Sinharaja Forest Reserve
• Galle Fort
• Jungle Beach
• Lighthouse
• Laggon Canoeing at Unuwatuna
• National Maritime Museum
• All Saints Church
• Kalutara and Seenigama temple
• Marine Archaeological Museum

Jaffna
Located in the Northern Province, Jaffna, with its lush green forests merging with the blue of the sea and the vivid shades of flora, is emerging as a leading tourist destination in Sri Lanka. A formerly war torn town, the unwavering spirit of Jaffna is on the path of rejuvenation. A medley of cultures; Sinhalese, colonial & a splatter of Tamil population, Jaffna has its unique fragrances & flavors.

Major Attractions in Jaffna

• Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
• Jaffna Fort
• Public Library
• Nainativu Island
• Nagadipa Purana Raj Maha Vihara
• Nagapooshani Amman Kovil
• Kadurugoda Temple
• DambakolaPatuna Viharaya
• Casuarina Beach

Dambulla
One of the most popular destinations in Sri Lanka, Dambulla is a spectacular example of Sinhalese art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnet for travelers across the world. �King Valagam Bahu took refuge here in the 1st century BC and later turned this cave complex into a rock temple as a gratitude to the monks of Dumbulla. Built on a black rocky mountain, the complex has five different rooms adorned with artistic statues of Lord Buddha. Exquisite frescos depicting Buddha’s previous births and scenes from Buddhist mythology embellish its walls & ceilings. Easily accessible, from both Colombo & Kandy, Dumbulla draws hordes of tourists in all seasons. �

Attractions in Dambulla

• Cave Temples
• Royal Rock Temple
• Dambulla Produce Market
• Dambulla Museum
• Golden Temple of Dambulla

Sigiriya
The ancient city of Sigiriya, also known as the Eighth wonder of the world, is an ode to the Sinhalese art & architecture. According to the inscriptions carved in network of caves at the base of the rock fortress, the existence of Sigiriya as a religious retreat dates back to the 3rd century BC. However the majestic rock fortress was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD. This iconic structure has been declared a UNESCO Heritage Site. Brace yourself to climb its carved staircases and witness its glorious ruins, ethereal frescos and splendid gardens.

Major Attractions of Sigiriya

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress & City
• Kudagala Forest Reserve & Monastery
• Minneriya National Park

Hatton
Known as the tea capital of Sri Lanka, Hatton is a busy town in the picturesque Nuwara Eliya district. The hill town, founded by the British to serve the tea & coffee plantations, takes its name from a tiny village in Scotland. This charming town is marked by gently rolling hills, cascading waterfalls and exotic vegetation. Gateway to the Adam’s Peak or Sri Pada and the famous Sinharaja Reserve, parts of the town have been declared as Religious Zone by the government of Sri Lanka.

Major Attractions of Hatton

• Adam’s Peak ( Sri Pada)
• Devon Falls
• St. Clair’s Falls
• Singha Malai Tunnel

Ella
This sleepy village in the Badulla district of Uva Province of Sri Lanka, with its rich biodiversity is home to countless variety of flora & fauna. The Ella Gap allows miles of clear view across the plains of Sri Lanka. The tiny hamlet, with its pleasant climate, misty morning, wisps of floating clouds and acres of tea plantations, is a perfect place to unwind in the lap of nature.

Attractions in Ella

• Little Adam’s Peak
• Ravana Falls
• Ella Gap
• Tea Plantations