Destinations
Heritage
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.