Full of romantic landscapes, stirring mountains, lush green tea gardens and golden beaches, the island nation of Sri Lanka is nothing short of magnificent. The country has no shortage of beautiful awe-inspiring spots, natural, historic and cultural, each more picture-perfect than the next. From soulful Buddhist monasteries and temples to exotic and impeccable spots rarely explored, Sri Lanka offers everything that makes your escape a memorable one! Whether travelling with your significant other or planning a vacation with your family, Sri Lanka won’t disappoint you! Take a trip to these most beautiful places in Sri Lanka and you will find it difficult to leave back home. Read on to know the most beautiful experiences of Sri Lanka including astounding places and popular attractions.
43 Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka In 2024
While you’re planning your next vacation to this serene country, scroll down to know where all you can head for an amazing trip with your friends and family. The following are the best travelling places in Sri Lanka that you can include in your itinerary.
- Ella – Witness The Countryside Charm
- Nuwara Eliya – Covered With Lush-Greenery
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See The Giant Beasts
- Polonnaruwa – The Ancient Ruins
- Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Mirissa – Go Whale Watching
- Yala National Park – Amidst The Wildlife
- Colombo – Visit The Bustling City
- Jaffna – Explore The Historical Architectures
- Ulpotha – Land Of Ayurveda
- Trincomalee – The Temple City
- Kandalama – The Surreal Village
- Tissamaharama – Picture Worthy Place
- Anuradhapura – See The Bodhi Tree
- Horton Plains National Park – Of Lakes And Greenery
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve – Tropical Beauty
- Udawalawe National Park – With Wild Animals
- Tawalantenne – Ideal Road Trip Location
- Arugam Bay – Pristine Beaches
- Commonwealth War Cemetery – For The Warriors
- Unawatuna Beach – Beautiful Beaches
- Sigiriya Museum – Visit The Historical Place
- Perandeniya Botanical Gardens – See The Flowers Blooming
- Dondra Lighthouse – Instagram Worthy
- Dambulla Cave Temple – Witness The Murals
- Old Dutch Fort At Galle – Picturesque Beauty
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Historical Beauty
- Beira Lake – The Surreal Lake
- Temple Of The Tooth Relic – One Of A Kind Temple
- Bentota Beach – Beautiful Sunrise And Blue Waters
- National Museum Of Colombo – Know The History
- Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue – Gigantic Architecture
- Nine Arch Bridge – Ride Amidst The Greenery
- Gal Viharaya – Know The Ancient History
- Ravana Falls – Explore The Surreal Beauty
- Spice Garden – Add Some Spice To Your Vacation
- Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – For Serenity
- Ruwanwelisaya – A Sacred Buddhist Site
- St. Anthony’s Church – Explore The Masterpiece
- International Buddhist Museum – Experience The Spirituality
- Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province – Explore The Greenery
- Dehiwala Zoo – Experience The Wilderness
- Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya – A Treat For The Eyes
1. Ella – Witness The Countryside Charm
Looking for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in December? Get enamored by the stunning views through Ella Gap overlooking a spectacular gap in the southern mountain wall. Situated in the middle of beautiful countryside, with small vegetable plots, tea plantations on the hill slopes and forests on the tops this hill station is nothing less than breathtaking. Ella undoubtedly, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Location: Town in Sri Lanka
Famous for: Hikes, mountain views, train rides
Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to visit Ella as the chances of rainfall are low and you can also enjoy hiking
How to reach: Ella is 235 km from Colombo. You can take a direct train to Ella from Colombo Fort Train Station
Where to stay: Blue Ribbon Homestay, Ella Tree houses and Cabanas
Tourist attractions: Ravana’s Cave, Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Falls
Must Read: 15 Things To Do In Ella
Sri Lanka Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Nuwara Eliya – Covered With Lush-Greenery
One of the most beautiful Sri Lanka tourist places, this 19th-century hill station Nuwara Eliya retains its colonial ambiance with its golf course, gentlemen’s clubs and mock Tudor buildings. It is one of the most beautiful locations in Sri Lanka for a scenic rail ride. Experience the stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations, waterfalls and dramatic mountains the train takes you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. You wouldn’t want the ride to end! You can enjoy trekking in Kandy and explore the beauty of nature. It is one of the safest places to visiting Sri Lanka during Covid. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Rishikesh in 2 days, Nuwara Eliya should be on your itinerary.
Location: Nuwara Eliya District, Central Sri Lanka
Famous for: Stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations
Best time to visit: February to May is the best time to visit Nuwara Eliya as the chances of rainfall are low and so is the temperature.
How to reach: There are frequent buses from Colombo and Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. However, the bus journey between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya takes a lot of time.
Where to stay: King Fern Cottage, Paradise Cottage, Haven Backpackers
Tourist attractions: Lake Gregory, Victoria Park, Pedro Tea Factory
3. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – See The Giant Beasts
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for wikipedia
Can you imagine anything as heartwarming as staring at baby elephants as they enjoy a river soak? The Pinnawalla Elephant Orphanage has many reasons to be called one of the best things to see in Sri Lanka! It won’t be hard to believe if you don’t want to leave this paradise.
This place is 13 km away from the town of Kegalle and one can come by any public transport. This is a very popular tourist destination and gives visitors a very different kind of experience. Watching the baby elephants doing mischief and moving here and there is a lifetime experience. One cannot get to see all this anywhere else.
When you will come to this place, you will get many small reasons that you will definitely love this place. Therefore, whenever you come to Sri Lanka sightseeing do visit this place as it’s one of the best places to see in Sri Lanka.
Location: B199, Rambukkana 71100, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Having the largest herd of captive elephants
Timings: 9 AM -1 PM is when elephants proceed with their daily activities. The park remains open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
How to reach: Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is just 37 km from Kandy. You could take a train towards Kandy and get down at Kegalle, the nearest village to the orphanage. You can take an auto or tuk-tuk from here to the park.
Where to stay: Hotel Lagone
Tourist attractions: Pinnawala Zoo
Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Badulla
4. Polonnaruwa – The Ancient Ruins
The next place in the list is again a city that is popular for the temples, and this has to be one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. You could easily spend your day imagining the ancient city life at the ruins of Polonnaruwa. Well-preserved and full of archaeological treasures with hundreds of ancient structures like tombs and temples, statues and stupas it is difficult to not be amazed by the ruins here.
This is known to everyone that Sri Lanka is a country of temples and also it has many monuments and heritages that depict its history and culture, it is one of the best Sri Lanka tourist places. Polonnaruwa is one such place that is very popular among tourists and one will get to experience the real life of Sri Lanka here.
So, if you are a spiritual person and also you have an interest in knowing the history, culture, and traditions of different countries, then you must visit this place. This place will give you the exact glimpses of Sri Lanka’s history and culture.
One would wonder what are the things here, which will give the sneak peek of Sri Lankan history. The answer to this question is that there are the remains of the old buildings and monuments that were once standing here.
Location: Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Its green environment and attractive tourist hotels
Best time to visit: July, August, and January are the best months to visit Polonnaruwa. Avoid May-June as these are the hottest months in Polonnaruwaa.
How to reach: There are no direct trains to Polonnaruwa but what you can do is take a train from Colombo to Habarana and then cover the onward journey by bus or taxi.
Where to stay: EKHO Lake House, Wildescape Polonnaruwa, Binara Home Stays
Tourist attractions: Sigiriya, Gal Vihara, Prakrama Samudra
5. Adams Peak – The UNESCO World Heritage Site
The next destination is one of the most mesmerizing Sri Lanka tourist places and is known as Adam’s Peak. Adam’s Peak is amongst the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. Climb the slopes at night to watch a breathtaking sunrise at dawn that would be hard to forget.
A biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is difficult to match the spectacular views from Adams Peaks in the whole of Sri Lanka, making it one of the best Sri Lanka tourist places. The name itself of this place is unique and so is the destination. This place is situated in middle Sri Lanka and that one thing for which it is known is called Sri Pada. Sri Pada is basically considered as the footprints of Buddha.
This is in the form of a rock creation at the mountain above. Apart from this spiritual and religious importance, this place is known for the beauty that the vivid greenery provides it. Along with that, if you go to the top of the peak, then you will witness some really amazing views of the surroundings. So, the little difficulties that you will have to bear are worth the kind of experience that the place gives you.
Location: Central Sri Lanka
Famous for: Its rock formation
Best time to visit: Weathe-wise, January and May are the best months. However, avoid full moon days and Sri Lankan holidays if you don’t want to wait in long queues.
How to reach: Though you will have to climb the steps, you can take a train from Colombo to reach the base of the peak. Take a direct train to Hatton from Colombo, Kandy, and other cities. Then take a bus or an auto to Dalhousie which is the closest town to Adama’s Peak
Where to stay: Slightly chilled hotel, Grand Adams Peak Hotel
Tourist attractions: Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Laxapana Falls
Suggested Read: 19 Reasons To Love Sri Lanka
6. Mirissa – Go Whale Watching
Spend your days, soaking in the sun on a hammock and whale-watching at the little village of Mirissa, one of the most appealing beach hideaways and places to see in Sri Lanka. The real world will be forgotten as soon as you enter this beachy paradise. Mirissa has to be on your list of beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka for an amazing holiday.
Not everyone is fond of the rush and crowd of the city. Many of us want to spend our holidays in peace and in some quiet places. So, if you too are one such person and you are in Sri Lanka, then you should visit this beautiful village called Mirissa.
This is the village where most of the citizens living are fishermen; therefore you will get a very close view of the life of the local people. You can even go fishing with the fishermen and have a look at the whales and other big fish. Some of the very popular and tastier fishes are found here, like tuna. When you are in this village, do not forget to eat the very tasty local cuisine.
Location: South coast of Sri Lanka
Famous for: Tuna, mullet, snapper and butterfish
Best time to visit: Mirissa is a windy place. So, avoid May-July. The best months would be December, October, and August in that order.
How to reach: Weligama is the nearest train station to Mirissa (7 km). You could take a direct train from Colombo or Bentota to Weligama, and then a tuk-tuk or bus ahead.
Where to stay: Mirissa Hills, Glamour Hotel, Paradise Beach Club
Tourist attractions: Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, Parrot Rock Bridge
7. Yala National Park – Amidst The Wildlife
Get dazzled by the leopards at Yala National Park, home to one of the highest densities of leopards in the world. Full of grassy plains, forest, lagoons, and coastline, this National Park is no less than a big cat paradise. A complete package of natural beauty and heritage, Sri Lankan beautiful places will capture your heart and make it one of the must-visit places in Sri Lanka. A visit to all these gorgeous spots will make a trip an unforgettable experience. This place again comes in the list of the most visited places in Sri Lanka. It is somewhat 200 km away from the town of Bentota.
This is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries not just in that particular area, but among all the sanctuaries of Sri Lanka. One should hire a jeep to have a ride across the jungles of the Sanctuary. This ride of yours will be full of fun and adventure. One can even spot many elephants and leopards while the jeep rides in the jungle. By just reading this article one can imagine how adventurous it would be to have such a ride. Therefore, Yala National Park is one such place that one cannot miss at any cost if they are in Sri Lanka.
Location: Yala, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Being home to large number of animals
Best time to visit: February to June is a dry season when the chances of spotting wildlife are high.
How to reach: The drive to Yala National Park from Haputale is only one hour. There are direct trains from Colombo, Ella, Kandy, etc to Haputale.
Where to stay: Kulu Safaris, Elephant Lake Yala, Ceylon Wild Safaris
Tourist attractions: Kumana National Park, Ruhunu Maha Katagrama
Suggested Read: Hikkaduwa In April
8. Colombo – Visit The Bustling City
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Next place on the list is the city of Colombo which is certainly amongst the best travel places in Sri Lanka. This will be completely unfair and your trip will not be complete if you do not visit the city of Colombo, which is the capital of Sri Lanka. There are several places in this city that you can visit and that will attract you definitely.
The city is beautiful overall and the beauty of it cannot be described in words. To visit the whole city one can book a cab or tuk-tuk and can make a list of places that can be visited. It is sure that one will be able to visit the whole city in one day. This lively capital city is surely among the best places to see in Sri Lanka.
Location: Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Its national museum and temples
Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to visit Colombo as it is the dry season. The chances of rainfall are low.
How to reach: Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and has a well-established network of rail, road, and air transport.
Where to stay: Mandarina Colombo, C1 Colombo Fort
Tourist attractions: Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Park, Viharadevi Park
9. Jaffna – Explore The Historical Architecture
Looking for religious tourist places in Sri Lanka? This place is also called the city of temples in Sri Lanka, as it has some of the most beautiful temples of Sri Lanka and one of the best Sri Lanka attractions for spiritual retreats. The most visited temple of all in this place are the temple of Nallur Kovil. This temple has the most visitors always and this is the most crowded of all temples. Other temples nearby too are visited by the people who come to visit this one. Apart from these temples, the other centre of attraction of this place is the Jaffna Fort. This fort is not just a beautiful monument to see but is also a symbol of the history of Sri Lanka.
So, the city of Jaffna is not just for the spiritual kind of people, but those who are a little bit interested in history and culture can also visit this place. With these main spots, another point of attraction in Jaffna is the Nagadeepa Vihara Purana temple. This temple too is known for its glory and beauty and is a must-visit. One can easily reach this temple through waterways, thus you can hire a boat and they can come to this place. The area surrounding provides you with the most peaceful environment and one can go for meditation and all.
Location: Northern Province of Sri Lanka
Famous for: Its historical architectures
Best time to visit: January-September and December are the best months to visit Jaffna as the rainfall is mediocre and temperatures is warm.
How to reach: There are no direct trains or buses to Jaffna. However, Kandy is the nearest city to Jaffna. So, if you are in Kandy, you could take a small detour by car or taxi.
Where to stay: Jaffna Guest House, Jaffna Heritage Hotel
Tourist attractions: Fort Jaffna, Nallur Kandaswamy
Suggested Read: 12 Temples In Sri Lanka
10. Ulpotha – Land Of Ayurveda
One thing more for which Sri Lanka is popular is the studies in Ayurveda and Yoga. The village of Ulpotha has some really good centers, where you can practice yoga and that too in the midst of nature. This place looks like next to heaven and spending time here is very pleasurable.
There are many yoga as well as Ayurveda retreat centres. So, even if you are least interested in these things, you should come here to gain more interest. This is believed to be one of the most serene tourist places in Sri Lanka!
Location: Ulpotha, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Ayurveda Retreat Centres
Best time to visit: It is only open 7 months a year
How to reach: If you book a stay with Ulpotha, then you don’t have ti worry about the accommodation. You will be picked up by the staff at the airport
Where to stay: Ayurveda Paradise Maho, Hotel Yapahuwa Paradise
Tourist attractions: Sigiriya Rocks, Yapahuwa Rock Fort
11. Trincomalee – The Temple City
Do you want to explore a few uncommon places to visit in Sri Lanka? People who love water sports and want to live underwater life, he or she can visit this place. This beach is one of the ideal beaches of Sri Lanka. This has everything that a beach should ideally provide to its visitors. The best part about this beach is that it has some really amazing scuba diving instructors. Therefore, one can go and have a real underwater experience there in the nicest of the ways. Apart from this, there are a few temples around, so you can go and see them too.
If you are wondering why you are not much interested in spirituality and all, then why should go to visit a temple? The reason why it is suggestive to visit temples in Sri Lanka is that they are not merely the home for God, but also a beautiful creation of man. The architecture of the temples is marvelous. So, when in Sri Lanka you should not skip visiting any of the temples, especially the one that comes in your way.
Location: Northeast coast of Sri Lanka
Famous for: Historical monuments and temples
Best time to visit: February to April is the best time to indulge in water activities.
How to reach: Sigirya is the nearest aiport to Trincomalee. A taxi ride from the airport will cost you about INR 700-900.
Where to stay: Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa, JKAB Beach Resort
Tourist attractions: Koneswaram Temple, Fort Fedrick
Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Beach Resorts In Sri Lanka
12. Kandalama – The Surreal Village
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Again, we are talking about a beautiful yet calm and pious destination of Sri Lanka. This is again a village and the name of this village is Kandalama. This is a guarantee that the experience that you will get here cannot be achieved anywhere else in the world. This is a place, where you can go for a ride to the skies. Yes, you read it right! There is a hot balloon service here, which will take you up above the skies. This is undoubtedly among the best places in Sri Lanka.
This is merely a village, but the arrangement, it has is not less than a city. If you want to spend your night there in the village, you can book a room for yourself in any of the hotels nearby.
There are many 5-star hotels here and one need not worry about the luxury and comfort that is provided by it. Along with the luxuries, the surroundings that this place has is very soothing and thus it could be counted as must visit place.
Location: Central Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Lake views and natural setting
Best time to visit: May-June, October-November is the time when the region receives excess rainfall. Except for these months, you can travel any time of the year.
How to reach: Dambulla is the closest town to Kandalama. You can take a bus to Dambulla from Colombo or Kandy.
Where to stay: Eco Hotel, Heritage Kandalama
Tourist attractions: Kandalama Reservoir, Spice Garden
13. Tissamaharama – Picture Worthy Place
This place is considered one of the places to go in Sri Lanka for those who are keenly interested in photography and stuff. Photography enthusiasts are really passionate about their work and what not they do for getting that perfect shot as this is one of the best Sri lanka tourist spots. If you too belong to the same category, then you should come to the town of Tissamaharama. This place has most scenic surroundings and you can get that perfect shot of flying birds here at this place.
Also, if we talk about the beauty of this place, then there is an artificial, but magnificently beautiful lake here. The name of this lake is Tissa Wewa Lake. Also, this place has some important and amazingly beautiful stupas like Yatala Vehera Stupa and many more. One must know that the people in Sri Lanka are the followers of Buddhism; therefore these stupas are very common in various places.
Location: Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Ancient stupas and the irrigation reservoirs
Best time to visit: Winter (December-February) is the best time to visit this place as the weather is warm.
How to reach: It is only 88 km from Ella. There are buses from Ella, Matara, galle to Tissa.
Where to stay: Tissamaharama resort, Hotel Tamarind Tree
Tourist attractions: Tissa Lake, Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihar
Suggested Read: 4 Things To Do In Kolonnawa, Sri Lanka
14. Anuradhapura – See The Bodhi Tree
Another of the most beautiful travel destinations in Sri Lanka is Anuradhapura. It is one of the ancient capitals in Sri Lanka and is famously known for its Bodhi Tree and is a must-see beautiful place in Sri Lanka. It is the same tree under which Lord Buddha achieved his enlightenment. Hence, the tree is also called the Tree of Enlightenment. The tree was not always there. Sanghamitra brought the cutting of the tree to the town.
Apart from Bodhi Tree, Anuradhapura has a number of evocative temples and religious sites. If you are in Sri Lanka in search of spirituality, then you should definitely come to this place. The brick stupas of dagobas are another thing you cannot afford to miss.
Location: Capital city of North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Bodhi tree, beautifully carved stone structures
Best time to visit: September and April
How to reach: It takes 4 hours from both Kandy and Colombo to reach Anuradhapura. You will find frequent buses from Kandy and Colombo to Anuradhapura
Where to stay: Olivia Homestay, Bevary Holiday Home
Tourist attractions: Singiriya, Mihintale
15. Horton Plains National Park – Of Lakes And Greenery
The list of the top 10 places to visit in Sri Lanka is incomplete without the mention of Horton Plains National Park. Those who enjoy being in nature and love hiking should definitely make a trip down to the Horton Plains. The terminal point of the hike is the world’s end from where you will get to enjoy the ethereal views. You will also find misty waterfalls, enchanting lakes, and a variety of flora-fauna in the park
You will need at least a day in the park. The hike to the world’s end is 4 km long and it takes about 4 hours to complete the whole circuit. Do not miss the Far Inn Hunting Lodge that act as a cafe and a visitor centre.
Location: Central Province, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Gorgeous waterfall, pool
Best time to visit: January to March is the best time to enjoy the scenery in the park.
How to reach: You will find direct train services from Ella, Nanu Oya, ad Haputale
Where to stay: Hill Safari Eco Lodge, The Plains Green
Tourist attractions: Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Bambarakanda Falls
Suggested Read: Horton Plains National Park
16. Sinharaja Forest Reserve – Tropical Beauty
The list of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka is incomplete without mentioning Sinharaja Forest Reserve. If there is one thing in abundance in Sri Lanka, it is flora-fauna. The home of lions, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers making it one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka. The reason why you should visit this place is that you will find a variety of endemic birds and mammals.
SInharaja is also the last viable area of tropical rainforests in Sri Lanka and hence an important biodiversity hotspot. No wonder it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also bordered by the rivers on both sides.
Location: Sinharaja Rainforest, Deniyaya 81500, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Rare flora and fauna
Best time to visit: January to March. The rest of the months experience heavy rainfall. You could also try in August till October but the precipitation is high.
How to reach: There are three entrances to the park; Kudawa, Pitadeniya, and Morning side entrance. Vehicles are not allowed inside.
Where to stay: The Rainforest EcoLodge Sinharaja, 360 Rainforest
Tourist attractions: Maduwanwela Walawwa, Kudawa Research Center
17. Udawalawe National Park – With Wild Animals
If you want to get a sight of elephants in Sri Lanka, then put Udawalawe National Park on your list because it is hard not to notice an elephant here. Located on the border of the boundary of Sabaragamuwa and Uva, the national park was formed to provide a home to the wild animals that were displaced during the construction of Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River.
The enchanting scenery and lush greenery of the area will make your jaw drop. Spot a variety of birds and wild animals like leopards and other mammals. There is even a transit home that houses baby elephants who have lost their parents.
Location: Udawalawa, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Spotting a variety of birds and wild animals
Best time to visit: October and January are the best months to spot Asian elephant herd. September is the mating time.
How to reach: Dickwella Airport is the nearest airport. It takes about an hour to reach the national park from the airport. You can get direct flights from Colombo.
Where to stay: Elephant Trail, Hotel Udawalawe
Tourist attractions: Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, Udawalawe Reservoir
Suggested Read: 4 Amazing Places To Visit In Udawalawa
18. Tawalantenne – Ideal Road Trip Location
A village in the central province of Sri Lanka, Tawalantenne is best known for St. Clair Falls. The mighty fall is one of the widest in Sri Lanka, and hence, known as Little Niagra of Sri Lanka. The breathtaking beauty of the waterfall will make your heart burst with joy when you lay your eyes on it.
The enchanting beauty of the waterfall surrounded by lush greenery lures locals and tourists to take a road trip down to Tawalantenne is this is why you should too. If you are spending a good amount of days in Nuwara Eliya, then you should put this on your itinerary.
Location: Tawalantenne, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Scenic waterfall
Best time to visit: Avoid going during monsoons.
How to reach: You will have to walk down to the waterfall. However, to reach Tawalantenne, you can hire a car to reach the spot. Ask the staff at your hotel or accommodation to arrange a drive for you.
Where to stay: Ramboda Villa, Tea Bush Ramboda
Tourist attractions: Ramboda Falls, Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple
19. Arugam Bay – Pristine Beaches
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Apart from all other beautiful natural features, Sri Lanka is best known for its beaches. There are many popular beaches in this country and it is said that they come in one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia.
The beaches here are not just for the sake of enjoyment along the side of the sea, but one can even enjoy going in the water. One can get such an amazing experience after visiting Arugam Bay. It is said that this beach is the most enjoyable of all and one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. One can easily dress up in their swimwear and can go into the water if they want.
Apart from this, the beach offers a lot of water activities too, to its visitors. These activities include diving, speed boating, and many others. What makes this beach beautiful of all the beaches in Sri Lanka is the blue water that it has and the coconut trees that are there on the beach.
Location: Sri Lanka’s southeast coast
Famous for: Beaches
Best time to visit: May-September is the best time to visit Arugam Bay when the monsoon has retreated.
How to reach: Ella is the nearest train station with a good frequency of trains from the rest of the country. You can aslo get buses from Colombo to Potuvill (4 km from the bay).
Where to stay: Arugam Bay Roccos, Beach View
Tourist attractions: The Surf City, Mahudu Maha Viharya
Suggested Read: 6 Day Trips From Kandy
20. Commonwealth War Cemetery – For The Warriors
This place is not regarded as one of the typical tourist places in Sri Lanka but still it is visited by people. There is nothing fancy about this place, yet you should come here to pay your homage to the soldiers who quit their lives for the sake of their country. It is not necessary that the man who has sacrificed his life should belong to your country only.
Be it any country and be it any person, if someone is doing a noble job, then this is our duty to appreciate them. So, when visiting Sri Lanka and especially to Kandy, do come and visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery. Here, you will find that there are people who are paying their tributes to the martyrs.
Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Pay homage to soldiers
Best time to visit: December to April
Tourist attractions: Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake
21. Unawatuna Beach – Beautiful Beaches
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for wikipedia
As mentioned earlier, Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches, not just among its neighbouring countries, but in the whole of Asia. Not just beautiful, the Srilankan beaches offer awesome nightlife and many water activities to the people that come.
One such awesome beach is the Unawatuna Beach which is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka to visit. This beach is very popular but is a bit different from the other beaches of Sri Lanka. While every other beach is known for the happening life that it gives to its tourists, this beach is known for the kind of calmness that it provides to the visitors there.
If you want to spend a good light afternoon, then you can simply come to this best beach in Sri Lanka to relax. The water and the sand here provide a very good environment overall, thus making it again a must-visit place.
This place is the least crowded, but you will get everything that you require. One should not understand that since this is a quiet place, they cannot have fun here. If you want to have fun, then you can dive in the water or even go to the nearby restaurants and cafes and can chill.
Location: Unawatuna Beach, Sri Lanka
Famous for: A good place to relax
Best time to visit: October to April
Tourist attractions: Japanese Peace Pagoda, Rumassala South Beach
Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In March
22. Sigiriya Museum – Visit The Historical Place
In this article, there is a mention of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Here we are discussing about the Sigiriya Museum. This museum will become the favorite of the person who is even least interested in history. The museum has such things preserved that clearly depict the tradition and history of Sri Lanka and Sigiriya. Apart from this, the museum is beautiful also, which gives you one more reason for paying a visit.
Location: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Beautiful museum
Best time to visit: January to April when the climate is moderate
Tourist attractions: Minneriya National Park
23. Perandeniya Botanical Gardens – See The Flowers Blooming
If we are talking about the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka, then why leave Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in Kandy out of the list? The sprawling 147-acre garden has 4,000 species of plants and 10,000 varieties of trees on display which is also one of the most wonderful places in Sri Lanka.
The lush greenery of the garden is invigorating making it a perfect spot for having a picnic with your family. There is even a cafeteria in the park where you can enjoy local and Western cuisine.
Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous for: The lush greenery and a picnic spot
Best time to visit: Usually in the evening from 4 pm to 6 pm
Tourist attractions: Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake
Suggested Read: 19 Photos that will make you wish you were in Sri Lanka Right Now
24. Dondra Lighthouse – Instagram Worthy
Dondra Lighthouse was made in the era when Sri Lanka was a colony. This could be understood by the way of its construction. This building is very tall and you will get a very good view of the nearby surrounding areas when you stand on the top of it. This looks beautiful because of the rows of palm trees that are there across the building and also because it seems as if the top of this building is meeting the sky.
One can come to visit this place along with his whole family. This is the place where families come and hang out together. You can click as many photographs as you want and can enjoy the scenic sunset that can be easily seen from the top of this lighthouse. The place is situated almost 165 km away from Colombo and therefore one can come here easily by any transportation from Colombo.
Location:Port Access Road, Dondra, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Good views of surrounding areas
Best time to visit: Early in the morning or evening to enjoy the sunset
Tourist attractions: Polhena Beach
25. Dambulla Cave Temple – Witness The Murals
Image Credit: Lankapic for wikipedia
It is hard to not be stunned by the beautiful murals and statues in this beautifully preserved cave with over 150 statues of Buddha. The Dambulla cave temple is one of the finest temples in Sri Lanka which is known for its unique architecture. Experience the peace and silence in this stunning cave temple that bears testimony to the extraordinary cultural artifacts in ancient Sri Lanka.
Location: Kandy – Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla, Sri Lank
Famous for: Beautiful murals and statues
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowd
Tourist attractions: Habarana Lake, Hurulu Eco Park
Suggested Read: Ramayana Tour In Sri Lanka
26. Old Dutch Fort At Galle – Picturesque Beauty
In the most beautiful city in Sri Lanka, experience a peaceful afternoon, staring at the endless sea from the charming Galle Old Dutch Fort, the best-preserved sea fort in South Asia. Nothing is going to make you want to turn back! This place is for those who are deeply interested in history. It is said that the establishment of this fort dates back to the 16th century. The maintenance is not perfect, but one can see history peeping through the fort. There is a sea nearby and you can get that perfect view from the top of the fort. One can even walk on the shore too.
Location: Church St, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Scenic view from the top of the fort
Best time to visit: December to March
Tourist attractions: Galle Dutch Fort, Galle Lighthouse
27. Sigiriya Rock Fortress – The Historical Beauty
Perhaps one of the most beautiful natural places in Sri Lanka, get lost amongst the ancient remains, remarkable frescoes and water gardens at the astonishing Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Don’t miss the magnificent view from the top, with jungle and rolling hills in every direction. Who would want to leave? Sigiriya is a place that is one of the world heritage sites. This place has uncountable reasons that will make you fall in love with this place. The first thing is its beauty, which is par excellence because of the mesmerizing vegetation it has all around.
Due to many other reasons including the beautiful greenery, it is said that if you do not pay a visit to this place, then your Sri Lanka trip will remain incomplete. The monument here is a fortress that is built in the middle of the greenery. The fortress is fully made up of rocks. So, if you will climb and go up, you will get a 360-degree view of the surrounding areas. This would be a brilliantly amazing view to watch. However, the way to reach this place is not that difficult, but even if you face a little problem then it is worth it.
Location: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Its water gardens, beautiful views
Best time to visit: January to April
Tourist attractions: Minneriya National Park
Suggested Read: 25 Best Places To Visit In Kandy
28. Beira Lake – The Surreal Lake
Sri Lanka is undoubtedly a beautiful city, but commercialization has made its place in the country. This, results in overcrowded places and markets, but if you want to spend a really peaceful time in Sri Lanka, then Beira Lake is the place for you. After that long and tiring shopping and travel if you want to sit calmly and relax your mind, then come to Beira Lake and have a boat ride there. You will feel as if all your tiredness and tension have gone.
The lake is very beautiful as it has green water and also because of the lots of Ducks that remain in the water and appear in front of the visitors during the boat ride. One can even go with a paddle boat as they too are available for rent. This lake offers an overall peaceful experience to the visitors.
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Peaceful visit and boat ride
Best time to visit: Early morning is the preferable time to enjoy fresh atmosphere
Tourist attractions: Seema Malakaya, Gangaramaya Temple
29. Temple Of The Tooth Relic – One Of A Kind Temple
One of the most interesting places in Sri Lanka, the next place in this is the one that is very unique and beautiful in every way. We are here talking about the Temple of Tooth Relic. This temple is very popular and most of the tourists coming to Sri Lanka come here definitely because of its uniqueness. Like many other popular places of Sri Lanka, this too comes in the world heritage sites and is marked so by UNESCO. The temple is spiritual and historical.
So, people who come here are interested in both subjects. It is said that the tooth relic that the temple has is of Buddha. Also, there is this saying that one who will hold that tooth relic will be the governor of the kingdom. This temple is located in the city of Kandy.
Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Spiritual and historical significance
Best time to visit: During the evening from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Tourist attractions: Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake
Suggested Read: Street Food In Colombo
30. Bentota Beach – Beautiful Sunrise And Blue Waters
If you’re looking for the most relaxing places in Sri Lanka, this beach lies at a distance of 65 km from the city of Colombo a beautiful beach named Bentota. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka and a must-visit spot on your trip there.
Unwind and relax on the golden sand of the Bentota beach and enjoy the beautiful sea views. One can also enjoy a boat cruise on the Bentota River and those who are looking for some adventure can enjoy some exciting water activities at the Bentota beach. Don’t forget to explore the best places to visit in Bentota while wandering here!
Location:Bentota 80500, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Golden sand beaches and sea views
Best time to visit: October to April
Tourist attractions: Turtle hatching centre, Game park
31. National Museum Of Colombo – Know The History
Do you like sneaking in the past of the place you are exploring on your vacation? To know the present, one must surely dig into the past, so why don’t you explore this illuminating National Museum of Colombo which was established in the year 1877 and offers an enormous collection of significant artefacts that fore-says the story of this lush green country and makes one of the famous places in Sri Lanka! It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Colombo on a Sri Lankan holiday.
Location: Center of the Colombo city
Famous for: Significant artifacts
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Tourist attractions: Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park
Suggested Read: 5 Best Places To Visit In Sri Lanka In October
32. Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue – Gigantic Architecture
If you have added Kandy to the itinerary on your next vacation to Sri Lanka then you must surely head to this magnificent statue of Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha, located on the top of Devil’s hill (Bahirava Kanda). The place is known for offering stunning views of the entire Kandy town and is called as paradise by nature lovers making it one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in November. You can also plan a visit to this place during night when the statue is lit up by lamps.
Location: Peradeniya, Kandy
Famous for: Magnificent statue
Best time to visit: Early morning or after sunset
Nearby Tourist Attractions: Temple Of Sacred Tooth Relics, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake
33. Nine Arch Bridge – Ride Amidst The Greenery
This is one of the iconic and famous places in Sri Lanka which is known for being surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views. Located at the small mountain town of Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge was built in the early days of the railway expansion in Sri Lanka. The unique thing about the bridge is that it is made of sheer cement, stone and brick, without the use of any steel. The most beautiful view that the visitors can admire is the train rolling over the bridge while they make their move towards the Demodara Loop.
Location: Sri Lanka
Famous for: Lush greenery and panoramic views
Best time to visit: January to March
Tourist Attractions: Ravana’s Cave, Ravana Falls
Suggested Read: 22 Places To Visit In Nuwara Eliya
34. Gal Viharaya – Know The Ancient History
Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Gal Viharaya is a famous Buddhist site. This place is adorned by a vast number of caves and gigantic sculptures of Buddha. Carved and crafted in the 12th century, these statues are preserved extremely safely. Just beside the statues, the code of conduct is also inscribed which was to be followed to purify the Buddhist Monks. Due to its unique beauty, this is considered one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.
Location: Nissankamallapura, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Gigantic sculptures of Buddha
Best time to visit: July, August, and January
Tourist Attractions: Sigiriya, Prakrama Samudra
35. Ravana Falls – Explore The Surreal Beauty
The Ravana Falls are famous for its surreal location which becomes the hot spot during the summer months. This fall is a part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary and also the nearby cave complex is known for its rich local legend. Situated at the main road which falls on the way to Ella Town, the caves come as a common halt point for visitors. It is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka.
Location: Sri Lanka
Famous for: Surreal location
Best time to visit: January to March
Tourist Attractions: Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana’s Cave
Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In June
36. Spice Garden – Add Some Spice To Your Vacay
Famous for its rare collection of herbs and spices, the spice garden has always been a major attraction in Sri Lanka to explore the rarest herbs and witness their process of being sown. You can also find some of the common herbs that are often used by people like turmeric, peppercorns, cloves, nutmeg, cocoa and cinnamon.
You can gain an insight into the actual process of these herbs and their importance or benefits along with enjoying the natural beauty of this garden making it one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. If you’re looking for couple things to do in Sri Lanka, then you can have a look at the Sri Lanka honeymoon guide and plan a romantic getaway in this tropical paradise.
Location: No 99, Kawudupelella 21000, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Rare collection of herbs and spices
Best Time To Visit: March to July
Tourist attractions: Rawana Falls
37. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara – For Serenity
Also known as Kelaniya Temple, this is a Buddhist temple which is famous for being one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka and one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. The temple is known for its magnificent art, the intriguing sculptors and the glorious history attached to it. Kelaniya Temple was built on the bank of Kelaniya River and offers serene surroundings.
Location: Peliyagoda, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Magnificent art
Best Time To Visit: October – January
How To Reach: Kelaniya Temple is located at the city of Kelaniya, 12km east of the city of Colombo. Kelaniya Temple can be reached by A1 main motor road running from Colombo to Kandy and railway.
Tourist attractions: St. Anthony’s Church
Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit Near Colombo Airport
38. Ruwanwelisaya – A Sacred Buddhist Site
Ruwanwelisaya is a famous stupa that is sacred to the Buddhist across the globe, and it was built by the King Dutugemunu. It is one of the world’s tallest monuments, one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka and reflects a certain irresistible charm. The intriguing architecture is a sight to behold. An interesting fact about this stupa is that it took almost 33 years to build this.
Location: Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Famous for: Intriguing architecture
Best Time To Visit: December to March
Tourist attractions: Sri Maha Boodhi Temple, Ranmasu Uyana
39. St. Anthony’s Church – Explore The Masterpiece
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
One of the most Sri Lanka famous places is St. Anthony’s Church which is a great place for devotees who come from all across the globe. There are various masses which are conducted all through the weekdays as well as on weekends.
Location: Kochchikade, St. Anthony’s Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Statue of St. Anthony, which was brought from Goa
Best Time To Visit: Anytime of the year
How To Reach: You can reach by bus or car from the airport.
Where To Stay: St. Anthony’s hotel, Hotel John Mary
Tourists Attractions: Special masses and benediction services in Tamil, English, and Sinhala every Tuesday.
Suggested Read: Sri Lanka Travel Tips
40. International Buddhist Museum – Experience The Spirituality
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
If you are a religious enthusiast and looking out for some of the Sri Lanka places to visit, then you must surely visit the International Buddhist Museum. Check out post COVID travel guide to Sri Lanka for a refreshing vacation.
Location: Close to Temple of Tooth, Kandy
Famous For: Complete knowledge about Buddhism
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach: By cab or local bus
Where To Stay: OZO Kandy, King of Kandy Hotel, Ceylon City Hotel
Tourists Attractions: photographs, models and gigantic statues
41. Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake, Uva Province – Explore The Greenery
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
For all adventure lovers, Mahiyanganaya Sorabora Lake is the best place to visit in Sri Lanka, where you will witness lush greenery, a tropical climate and you can also do camping. You can experience sunrise and sunset which is a completely breathtaking view.
Location: Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Fish viewing and bird watching
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach: You can hire a cab or local bus
Where To Stay: GMT Sorabora Village Hotel
Tourists Attractions: Beautiful sluice gate
Suggested Read: International Flights To Resume In Sri Lanka
42. Dehiwala Zoo – Experience The Wilderness
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Dehiwala Zoo provides shelter to endangered species like wild animals and birds and you will also spot elephants, chimpanzees and sea lions. This is one of the amazing places in Sri Lanka. Explore the best places to visit in Colombo.
Location: Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala.
Famous For: breeding, animal exchange programs
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach: Through local bus
Where To Stay: Concord Grand Hotel, Royal Mount Hotel, Villa 2 Residence
Tourists Attractions: The place is one of the members of WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
43. Bambarakanda Falls, Ohiya – A Treat For The Eyes
Image Credit: Author Name for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
One of the most tranquil places to explore in Sri Lanka is Bambarakanda Falls. The waterfall is at a height of 263 meters and is regarded as the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.
Location: Kalupahana – Ohiya Rd, Sri Lanka
Famous For: Uduweriya Haputale Mountain and Kuda Oya, a tributary of Walawe River
Best Time To Visit: It is recommended that you must visit the waterfalls early in the morning as the waterfall gets busy from 11 AM.
How To Reach: you can drive up to 6 kms to reach the fall.
Where To Stay: Melheim Resort and Spa, Nilowin Holiday Resort, Olympus Plaza Hotel
Tourists Attractions: evergreen forest in the Kalupahana Area.
Further Read: Sri Lanka A Must Visit Holiday Destination
A complete package of natural beauty and heritage, these most beautiful places in Sri Lanka will capture your heart. A visit to all these gorgeous spots will make a trip an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Sri Lanka for the holidays of 2024 right away!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Most Beautiful Places In Sri Lanka
How many days are enough to visit Sri Lanka?
You can visit Sri Lanka for 4 to 5 days as there are many places that you can explore there.
What is there to do in Sri Lanka in May?
You can go surfing, visit Yala National Park and more places in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s sandy beaches, timeless ruins, tea gardens, and prominent peaks have attracted travelers from around the world for centuries. Watch our Sri Lanka travel video to get an up-close look at the undeniably alluring attractions in this region.
Where is the best area to stay in Sri Lanka?
There are a number of places to visit in Sri Lanka that have some of the best staying options, from hotels and resorts to homestays and hostels. Some of them are: Colombo, Arugam Bay, Galle and Matara, Kandy, Dambulla Area, and Anuradhapura.
What is Sri Lanka known for?
The country of Sri Lanka is known for various factors, including the religious aspects. The rich Buddhist culture is quite prominent here. Apart from Buddhism, there are other religions too that are well known in Sri Lanka. The country is also renowned for its historical richness, attracting tourists from different countries of the world.
What should I buy in Sri Lanka?
When you are exploring the different markets in the country of Sri Lanka, you must keep some of the stuff in mind for a great shopping experience! Some of the best souvenirs that you can find in Sri Lankan markets are: tea, spices, moonstone carvings, handwoven accessories jewellery and gems, Buddha statuettes, elephant figurines, Ayurvedic cosmetics, etc.
Is Sri Lanka expensive?
Like most countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on a backpacker budget, or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites. With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.
Is there Uber in Sri Lanka?
A few days back, Uber announced that its Intercity service would now be available for all cities in Sri Lanka. So you can now take an Uber to Ella, Riverston, or the Great Western. However, Uber isn’t the first ride-hailing app to offer trips out of Colombo.
Which are some of the famous romantic places to visit in Sri Lanka?
Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya and Mirissa Beach are some of the popular romantic places to visit in Sri Lanka.
What are the tourist places in Sri Lanka near the airport?
Pettah Bazaar, Gangaramaya Temple, and Mount Lavinia are the famous tourist places in Sri Lanka located near the airport.
Which are the best hotels in Colombo?
Some of the best hotels where you can enjoy amazing services in Colombo are Mandirina, Taj Samudra, Hotel Galadari, and Shangri-La.
Which are the most famous restaurants in Colombo?
The London Grill and Graze Kitchen are the most popular restaurants in Colombo that serve delectable meals.
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