10 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a land of colonial tea plantations, incredible train routes, welcoming people, ancient temples, white sand beaches and incredible wildlife. Today, when the violent civil war ended and the country was rebuilt after one of the most devastating tsunamis, the tourism industry is growing rapidly!
Each year, more and more visitors choose Sri Lanka as a holiday destination, as this tropical island offers unforgettable experience for everyone! From the best cities to the best beaches, here is a list of 10 best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Get inspired and plan your trip to Sri lanka this year!
1. Ella
Ella is definitely my favorite destination in Sri Lanka. This lovely little town surrounded by lush green countryside attracts many visitors every year. From most epic hikes, railways, waterfalls, spectacular bridges to famous tea plantations. This is a place to stay longer, to explore more, because Ella is like no other city in Sri Lanka. It is also the best place in Sri Lanka, where you can completely disconnect and refresh your brain. I recommend to book your hotel up in the hill instead of staying on the main road in the city. Nothing can beats the incredible view of the lush hills and tea plantations in the morning.
2. Adam’s Peak
Adam’s Peak is Sri Lanka’s most sacred mountain and one of the most famous hiking destinations in the country. It has been a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists, Hindus, Catholics and Muslims for more than a thousand years. Isn’t that amazing? Everyone, all together climb its 5200 steps to reach the top of the Holy Adam’s Peak. Have you ever heard about such a place, where so many religions come together to experience something truly spiritual?
3. Arugam Bay
Calling all surfers!
Arugam Bay, also known as a surfers paradise, is an ideal destination for adventurous surfers and beach lovers. It offers a few great surf spots for those who enjoy long rides! I ended up staying here for 7 days, living on the beach, practicing my surfing skills and enjoying the summer vibes. The main street is filled with cool cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy good Sri Lankan food.
4. Yala National Park
First safari in my life!
Yala National Park is the second largest National Park in Sri Lanka, located on the Southeast coast. It is a home to the most magnificent wildlife in Sri Lanka! The Yala National Park is considered as the most visited National Park, as it claims the highest leopard density in the World. Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky that day!
However, I have seen Asian elephants, crocodiles, sambar deers, sloth bears, wild buffalos, jackals, chameleons and different species of birds!
5. Sigiriya
Sigiriya is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka! It is a place to be! Sigiriya’s most recognizable landmarks are the magnificent terraced summit, the Sigiriya Lion Rock (on the picture), the Pidurangula Rock, royal gardens and 1600 year old Frescoes.
6. Mirissa
Oh Mirissa!
I spent here over a week, exploring surroundings, chilling in my hammock and enjoying fresh coconuts all days long. Yeah, this is a place to relax!
Mirissa is famous for it’s whale and dolphin watching tours, white sand beaches, stunning sunset spots, vibrant nightlife and great food. It was hard to leave! I couldn’t get enough of that color scheme – pure white sand, cloudless blue sky, green palm trees and lazur water.
READ MORE: 10 Awesome Things to Do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka
7. Nuwara Eliya
When thinking about the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka, I couldn’t miss Nuwara Eliya!
Known as the Little England of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya attracts lost of visitors for it’s endless hills covered by tea plantations, tea factories, stunning waterfalls and architecture. I came here to learn more about my favorite Ceylon tea, one of Sri Lanka’s primary exports. Remember that Nuwara Eliya lies on the popular route between Kandy and Ella, in the mountains, so take with you warm clothes, as nights get very cold.
READ MORE: The Best Ceylon Tea Plantations in Sri Lanka
8. Galle Fort
This charming and well preserved Dutch colonial town was built by the Portuguese is the 16th century. Today, Galle blends perfectly cultures, architecture, religious and cuisines. It is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site for presenting the magnificent European architecture and South Asian traditions. I came here just for a day trip, but I felt it wasn’t enough. It is one of the most beautiful cities, I visited in Sri Lanka.
9. Hikkaduwa
I arrived to Hikkaduwa in the late August, in the middle of the low season. This time of the year, the high season can be found only on Sri Lanka’s east coast. However, I was very happy with the laid-back atmosphere and empty streets. The weather was perfect and accommodation very affordable.
10. Dalawella beach
All right! To be honest with you, there is only one reason, why I came to Dalawella beach!
Calling myself an adventure catcher, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to ride the famous palm tree rope swing! At the beginning, it was a place only known by locals, who built the swing for themselves. Today, this spot is a must-see attraction for tourists willing to try something fun and adventurous in Sri Lanka. What a joy!
I hope you enjoyed my list of 10 best places to visit in Sri Lanka. If you have your favorites, please leave a comment below!
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