Top Destinations
Find yourself far away
Often referred to as "Little England," Nuwara Eliya is a charming hill town known for its cool climate, colonial-era architecture, and lush tea plantations. Surrounded by rolling green hills, waterfalls, and gardens, it offers attractions such as Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Horton Plains National Park, home to the breathtaking World's End viewpoint. The region is famous for its tea production, with numerous estates offering guided tours and tastings.
As Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital, Colombo is a vibrant city that blends modern skyscrapers with colonial heritage and cultural diversity. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Gangaramaya Temple, the Old Dutch Hospital, and the iconic Galle Face Green promenade. The city offers a lively shopping and dining scene, with upscale malls, street markets, and a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Colombo’s mix of history, culture, and modern attractions makes it an essential stop for travelers.
Located in northern Sri Lanka, Jaffna is a cultural hub known for its unique Tamil heritage, vibrant Hindu temples, and delicious seafood cuisine. The city is home to historic landmarks such as the Jaffna Fort, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, and the Keerimalai Hot Springs. Visitors can also explore the nearby islands, such as Delft Island and Nainativu, which offer pristine beaches and ancient religious sites. Jaffna’s distinct culture, rich history, and welcoming locals make it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking a different side of Sri Lanka.
A picturesque hill town surrounded by lush tea plantations and misty mountains, Ella is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The town’s most famous attractions include Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, and Ella Rock, offering breathtaking hiking experiences. The scenic train ride to Ella, passing through tunnels, waterfalls, and rolling tea estates, is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Ella’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with stunning landscapes and cozy cafes, makes it a must-visit destination.
One of Sri Lanka’s most revered pilgrimage sites, Adam’s Peak is a 2,243-meter mountain famous for the sacred footprint at its summit, believed to be of religious significance to Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. Pilgrims and hikers climb the 5,500 steps to witness the breathtaking sunrise, which casts a mystical triangular shadow over the surrounding hills. The climb, typically done at night, is both a spiritual and adventurous experience, offering stunning views and an unforgettable journey.
A hidden gem in the Matale district, Riverston is a lesser-known yet breathtakingly beautiful destination known for its misty mountains, lush forests, and cool climate. The Riverston viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Knuckles Mountain Range and surrounding valleys. Popular activities in the area include hiking, visiting the Pitawala Pathana grasslands, and exploring the stunning Sera Ella waterfall. Riverston is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude, nature, and adventure away from the crowds.
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain range, the Knuckles Mountains are a haven for trekkers and nature lovers. Named for their resemblance to a clenched fist, the range is home to diverse flora and fauna, including many endemic species. The region offers multiple trekking trails, leading through dense forests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Popular sites include Mini World’s End, Meemure village, and the Duwili Ella waterfall.
Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beach destinations, known for its vibrant coral reefs, golden sandy beaches, and lively nightlife. The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary offers a fantastic snorkeling and diving experience, allowing visitors to explore colorful marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles. The town also has a thriving surf culture, with consistent waves ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. Hikkaduwa’s beachside restaurants, bars, and relaxed atmosphere make it a must-visit coastal getaway.
A tropical paradise on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Mirissa is famous for its stunning crescent-shaped beach, vibrant nightlife, and world-class whale watching. From November to April, visitors can embark on boat tours to see majestic blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins. The town also offers scenic viewpoints like Coconut Tree Hill and Parrot Rock. Mirissa’s relaxed vibe, surf-friendly waves, and fresh seafood restaurants make it a perfect beach escape.
Bentota is a luxury beach destination known for its calm waters, high-end resorts, and water sports activities. The Bentota Lagoon is perfect for jet skiing, windsurfing, and boat safaris through mangrove forests. The area is also home to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, where visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation. With its combination of relaxation and adventure, Bentota is an ideal getaway for families and honeymooners.
Hiriketiya, often called Hiri Beach, is a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay on Sri Lanka’s south coast, near Dikwella. It has gained popularity as a hidden gem for surfers, offering consistent waves perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. The bay is lined with trendy cafés, boutique hotels, and a relaxed, bohemian vibe that attracts digital nomads and beach lovers alike. Beyond surfing, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, yoga retreats, and the laid-back coastal lifestyle. With its lush palm trees, golden sands, and turquoise waters, Hiriketiya is an idyllic escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
A world-renowned surfing destination, Arugam Bay on Sri Lanka’s east coast attracts surfers from around the globe with its perfect right-hand point breaks. The area also offers stunning beaches, beachfront cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere. Beyond surfing, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Kumana National Park, Elephant Rock, and the scenic Pottuvil Lagoon. Arugam Bay is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
Kalpitiya is Sri Lanka’s top destination for dolphin and whale watching, with large pods of spinner dolphins frequently seen off the coast. It is also a paradise for kite surfers, thanks to its strong winds and vast open waters. The region consists of pristine beaches, secluded islands, and rich marine biodiversity, including the vibrant coral reefs of Bar Reef. Kalpitiya offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Located close to Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is a charming coastal town known for its long sandy beaches, colonial history, and fishing industry. Visitors can explore the Dutch-built canal system, St. Mary’s Church, and the bustling fish market. Negombo’s beachside hotels and lively nightlife make it a great starting or ending point for a Sri Lanka trip.
A hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Polhena Beach is famous for its calm, shallow waters and frequent sea turtle sightings. Protected by a coral reef, the beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing visitors to swim alongside marine life. It is a peaceful spot ideal for families and those looking for a relaxing beach experience away from the crowds.
Unawatuna is a picturesque crescent-shaped beach known for its golden sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with coral reefs and shipwrecks nearby. The famous Jungle Beach and Japanese Peace Pagoda are also close by, offering stunning coastal views. Unawatuna’s beachside cafes, bars, and lively atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers.
Located on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast, Nilaveli Beach is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a peaceful paradise perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and diving. A short boat ride from Nilaveli takes visitors to Pigeon Island National Park, a marine sanctuary with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including reef sharks and sea turtles. Nilaveli is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and scenic beach escape.
Yala is Sri Lanka’s most famous and second-largest national park, renowned for its high density of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive big cats. The park’s diverse landscape of dry forests, grasslands, and coastal lagoons is home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an array of bird species. Yala also features historical and cultural sites, including ancient Buddhist ruins hidden within the jungle. Safari tours offer thrilling wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Udawalawe is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe wild elephants in their natural habitat, with herds often gathering near the Udawalawe Reservoir. The park’s open grasslands and scattered forests also provide a haven for water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including the majestic crested serpent eagle. Udawalawe is a popular safari destination for those seeking an authentic wildlife experience with guaranteed elephant sightings
A UNESCO-listed tropical rainforest and Sri Lanka’s last remaining stretch of primary rainforest, Sinharaja is a treasure trove of biodiversity. This dense and misty jungle is home to countless endemic species, including rare birds like the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Green-billed Coucal, and Red-faced Malkoha. Mammals such as the purple-faced langur and giant squirrels roam the lush canopy, while hidden waterfalls and winding trails create an enchanting atmosphere.
Minneriya is famous for "The Gathering," an annual spectacle where hundreds of wild elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank during the dry season (July–October). This park, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, offers a stunning blend of wetlands, grasslands, and tropical forests. Aside from elephants, Minneriya is home to deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of migratory birds
Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, known for its unique "villus" (natural lakes) that attract an abundance of wildlife. This vast and less crowded wilderness is home to a thriving population of leopards, sloth bears, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Unlike other national parks, Wilpattu’s dense forests and wide-open plains create an unpredictable yet exciting safari experience.
Established in 1975, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage serves as a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants, providing them with a safe haven. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close, watching their daily routines, including feeding sessions and their famous river baths in the nearby Maha Oya. The orphanage plays a vital role in elephant conservation, ensuring the well-being of these gentle giants while educating visitors about their importance to Sri Lanka’s wildlife heritage.
A paradise for adventure seekers, Kitulgala is Sri Lanka’s top destination for white-water rafting and outdoor activities. Nestled amidst lush rainforests and the scenic Kelani River, this small town offers thrilling experiences such as rafting, canyoning, waterfall abseiling, and jungle trekking. Kitulgala is also famous for being the filming location of the classic movie The Bridge on the River Kwai.
One of Sri Lanka’s most sacred and iconic pilgrimage sites, Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) is a 2,243-meter-tall mountain revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims alike. At its summit lies a footprint-shaped rock formation, believed by Buddhists to be the footprint of Lord Buddha, while others associate it with different religious figures
Located in the stunning Ella region, Flying Ravana Adventure Park is home to Sri Lanka’s first and longest mega zipline. This exhilarating attraction lets thrill-seekers soar over lush tea estates and misty hills at high speeds, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Ella Gap. In addition to the zipline, the park offers other adrenaline-pumping activities such as ATV rides, archery, abseiling, and a challenging rope course.
One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress rising 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. Built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning frescoes, the famous Mirror Wall, and the grand Lion’s Paws leading to the summit. At the top, visitors can explore the ruins of the royal palace while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views. Sigiriya’s engineering marvels, including advanced irrigation systems and the surrounding water gardens, make it one of the greatest wonders of ancient Sri Lanka.
As Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO-listed city that dates back over 2,500 years. It is home to some of the most sacred Buddhist sites, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree grown from a sapling of the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The city boasts massive dagobas (stupas) such as Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiri, and Jetavanaramaya, alongside monastic complexes and ancient reservoirs (tanks) like Tissa Wewa.
Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this UNESCO-listed site is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple complex. The temple consists of five caves adorned with over 150 beautifully preserved Buddha statues and intricate murals covering the walls and ceilings. Dating back to the 1st century BC, the cave monastery served as a refuge for King Valagamba during his exile. The temple’s hilltop location offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-visit cultural and spiritual site.
The cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a vibrant city set amidst misty hills and lush tea plantations. It is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha and attracts pilgrims from around the world. Kandy is also known for its annual Esala Perahera, a grand festival featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants. Visitors can explore the scenic Kandy Lake, Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, and the bustling local markets while soaking in the city’s rich heritage and charm.
Galle is a historic coastal city in southern Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. The city's centerpiece is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. Inside the fort, visitors can explore charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Galle is also famous for its beautiful beaches, including Unawatuna and Jungle Beach, making it a perfect destination for history lovers and beachgoers alike.
Kataragama is a sacred pilgrimage town in southern Sri Lanka, revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. It is home to the Kataragama Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Skanda (Murugan), attracting thousands of devotees, especially during the annual Esala Festival. The town is also known for the Kirivehera Stupa, an important Buddhist site believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha. Nestled near the edge of Yala National Park, Kataragama offers both spiritual and natural experiences, making it a unique destination for pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital, Polonnaruwa is known for its well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and statues from the 11th–13th centuries. Highlights include the Gal Vihara, a stunning rock temple with colossal Buddha statues, the grand Parakrama Samudra reservoir, and the impressive Royal Palace complex. Polonnaruwa’s archaeological treasures provide a glimpse into the advanced civilization of the ancient kingdom.