Tourist Places in Sri Lanka, A Tropical Paradise

Welcome to Sri Lanka “The Jewel of Indian Ocean”, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, it is an incredibly stunning island nation. Travelers from across the globe are allured by its multifaceted scenery, extensive heritage and lively culture. Frequently portrayed as a tropical paradise, it’s home to pristine beaches, teeming rainforests and historical temples. Tourist places in Sri Lanka offers a special mixture of thrill, relaxation and exploration.

Come along with us as we show you around The Jewel of the Indian Ocean. To start your trip you should first visit Colombo, where city life coexists harmoniously with colonial charm, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. From there, venture into the cultural heart of the island in Kandy, where resides the cherished Temple of the Tooth Relic set amidst lush hills and peaceful lakes. Discover the magnificence of Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress that stands as a testament to the island’s royal heritage or explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, known for its well-preserved ruins and religious landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful haven or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Sri Lanka promises an enchanting adventure. Discover the magic of this island gem and create unforgettable memories in a destination where every moment is a celebration of life.

Memorable journey to Sri Lanka

1. How to reach and travel around Sri Lanka

By Air

The prominent global entry to Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo.Other than that Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota, also receives international flights. Several international airlines operate flights to Sri Lanka including SriLankan Airlines, Emirates and more. Major hubs such as London, Dubai, Doha and Singapore frequently offer flights to Colombo.

By Sea

Although not as common as air travel, there are some cruise lines which include Sri Lanka as a stop on their South Asian tours. Cruise ships may dock in Colombo or other coastal cities.

By Land

The possible land route to Sri Lanka is from Tamil Nadu, India. You can travel to the southern Indian city of Rameswaram and take a ferry to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. Though the ferry service between Rameswaram and Talaimannar was previously available but has been infrequent lately. Make sure to check current availability.

Visa Requirements

Ensure you have the appropriate visa for Sri Lanka. Most of the tourists need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which can be obtained online before your journey.

Local Transportation in Sri Lanka

There different means for traveling around the country which are

Domestic Flights

The best travel option between major cities and tourist places in Sri Lanka is through domestic flights. SriLankan Airlines and Cinnamon Air offer flights connecting Colombo with other cities.

Trains

The journey by trains in Sri Lanka offers a lot of scenic views of the country’s landscape, such as the journey from Colombo to Kandy or other cities. They are pretty cheap and comfortable as well.

Buses and Taxis

For traveling from city to city buses can be considered as the best option and the country has a large network system between cities. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and PickMe are the best options for traveling within the cities.

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2. Best Season to visit

The ideal time to plan a tour to Sri Lanka depends on what you want to enjoy, as the climate varies in different regions. Generally, the most favorable times for different regions are

For the West and South Coasts

To visit Colombo and Galle, the best time is from December to March. During these months, you’ll find pleasant weather with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring.

For the Cultural Triangle

To visit the cultural triangle cities like Sigiriya, Kandy and Anuradhapura. The period from April to September is the best. This is when the weather is relatively dry and favorable for sightseeing.

For the Hill Country

The weather is mostly good from January to March. The climate is cool and comfortable, which is perfect for venturing into the tea plantations and enjoying the charming views of Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

For the North and East Coasts

The weather is generally dry and sunny from May to September making it the ideal time to visit these regions. It offers scenic and picturesque views during this season.

3. Best Tourist Places in Sri Lanka

Colombo

Colombo is Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital and an entry to the magical island. Explore the bustling streets of Pettah, venture into the country’s history by visiting the National Museum and enjoy a relaxing wander along Galle Face Green. Don’t forget to go to the iconic Gangaramaya Temple and the inspiring Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city. The city’s fusion of modernity and tradition provides a unique cultural experience.

Kandy

Kandy, amidst the lush hills of central Sri Lanka, is known for its Temple of the Tooth Relic. A UNESCO World Heritage site home to a sacred relic of Buddha. The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya and the composed Kandy Lake are peaceful getaways with picturesque views. Kandy also hosts the famous Esala Perahera festival, a vibrant celebration of traditional dance, music and ancient rituals.

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, famously known as the Lion Rock, another UNESCO World Heritage site is an historical rock fortress. Climb the marvelous rock citadel, which features breathtaking panoramic views and well-preserved murals. The surrounding gardens and moats enhance the site’s historical charm. Sigiriya is also home to the famous Sigiriya Frescoes, representing celestial maidens and unique architectural elements.

Galle

Galle is a historic coastal city famous for its well-maintained Galle Fort, a colonial-era fortification with charming streets, boutiques, and cafes. Wander through the fort’s cobblestone streets, visit the Galle Lighthouse, and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere. The fort’s blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British architectural styles offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past.

Ella

Ella is a picturesque town in the central uplands known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Visit the scenic Nine Arches Bridge, hike to Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak, and marvel at the beautiful Ravana Falls. The area is also famed for its lush tea plantations, where you can enjoy tours and tastings of the world-renowned Ceylon tea.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” is renowned for its cool climate and lush tea estates. Explore the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, enjoy a round of golf at the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, and take a scenic train ride through the picturesque hill country. The town’s colonial architecture and manicured gardens create a charming ambiance.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is dotted with impressive stupas, temples and ancient ruins including the towering Ruwanwelisaya Stupa and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, which is deemed to be a seedling from the real Bodhi Tree under whom Buddha gained enlightenment. The extensive archaeological site offers a fascinating exploration of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is a historical city and UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-protected ruins. Explore the grand Gal Vihara, with its rock-cut Buddha statues and the majestic Royal Palace complex. The ancient city’s ruins provide insight into the architectural and artistic achievements of Sri Lanka’s medieval period.

Mirissa

Mirissa is a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches and whale-watching opportunities. Relax on the golden sands, enjoy the vibrant beach bars, and embark on a whale-watching tour to see blue whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make Mirissa a perfect destination for beach lovers.

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a diverse range of animal species like leopards, elephants and exotic bird species. The park provides thrilling safari experiences through its varied ecosystems. Yala’s diverse habitats, from dry shrubland to lush rainforests, provide a haven for wildlife and make your safari adventures unforgettable.

Jaffna

Jaffna, located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, offers a unique cultural experience with its Tamil heritage. Explore the historic Jaffna Fort, visit the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple and enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant markets. Jaffna’s distinct cultural and historical elements provide a different perspective of Sri Lankan life.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is known for its stunning beaches, such as Nilaveli and Uppuveli, and its historical sites like the Koneswaram Temple. The nearby Pigeon Island National Park offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Trincomalee’s beautiful coastline and rich history make it an appealing destination for relaxation and exploration.

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4. Activities to do in Tourist Places in Sri Lanka

Type of Experience	Activity	Best Locations
Adventure	Surfing	Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa and Mirissa
	Hiking and Trekking	Ella Rock, Adam’s Peak and Knuckles Mountain Range
	White Water Rafting	Kitulgala
	Zip Lining	Kandalama and Ella
	Paragliding	Koggala and Mirissa
Wildlife and Nature	Wildlife Safaris	Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park and Minneriya National Park
	Whale Watching	Mirissa and Trincomalee
	Botanical Garden	Peradeniya and Hakgala Botanical Gardens
Culture and History	Explore Ancient Cities/Ruins	Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya
	Visit Temples	Temple of Tooth in Kandy, Dambulla Cave Temple and Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee
	Traditional Dance Performances	Kandy and Colombo
Relaxation and Wellness	Ayurvedic Treatments and Spa	Colombo, Kandy and beach resorts
	Beach Relaxation	Unawatuna, Mirissa and Bentota
	Tea Plantation Tours	Nuwara Eliya and Ella
Culinary Experiences	Food Tours	Colombo, Galle and Kandy
	Cooking Classes	Colombo and Galle
Unique Experiences	Wander through the historic Galle Fort	Galle
	Discover the unique Tamil culture and historical sites	Jaffna
	Climb Little Adam’s Peak	Ella
	Visit a Gem Mine	Ratnapura

5. Accommodation Options for Tourist Places in Sri Lanka

Hotel Types	Hotels – Location	Price Ranges
Luxury Hotels and Resorts	Amangalla (Galle)	$500 – $800
	Cinnamon Grand Colombo (Colombo)	$150 – $250
	Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort (Tangalle)	$300 – $500
Boutique Hotels	Uga Ulagalla (Anuradhapura)	$250 – $400
	The Fort Printers (Galle)	$150 – $250
	The Wallawwa (Dikkala)	$200 – $300
Mid-Range Hotels	Cinnamon Citadel (Kandy)	$80 – $150
	Heritance Negombo (Negombo)	$100 – $180
	The Kingsbury (Colombo)	$120 – $200
Budget Accommodation	Backpackers Hostel (Colombo)	$10 – $70
	lla Hostel (Ella)	$15 – $60
	The Little Sunshine (Mirissa)	$20 – $40
Guesthouses and Homestays	Ella Guest House (Ella)	$25 – $50
	Sithuvili Gange (Kandy)	$20 – $40
	Anuradhapura Rest House (Anuradhapura)	$30 – $60
Eco-Lodges and Retreats	Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge (Kandy)	$200 – $350
	Cinnamon Nature Trails (Various locations)	$150 – $300
	The Other Side (Haputale)	$100 – $200
Beach Resorts	Sun Siyam Iru Fushi (Noonu Atoll)	$400 – $800
	Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort and Spa (Hambantota)	$250 – $400
	Club Palm Bay (Marawila)	$80 – $150
Unique Stays	Treehouse Hotels (Various locations)	$150 – $300
	Safari Lodges (Near National Parks)	$150 – $250
Airbnb and Vacation Rentals	Various locations from private rooms to entire homes	$30 – $300+

6. Fun Facts

The Oldest Tree 

Sri Lanka is home to the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest living historical tree in the world. It is a spiritual fig tree in Anuradhapura planted in 288 BC.

Home to the World’s Largest Elephant Gathering 

Minneriya National Park is renowned for the “Great Elephant Gathering.” During the dry season, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank.

A UNESCO World Heritage Treasure

Sri Lanka boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient cities like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa as well as the rich cultural heritage of Kandy.

The Sinhalese Language

It is one of the 2 national languages of Sri Lanka along with Tamil. Its history spans over 2500 years making it one of the oldest languages.

World’s First Female Prime Minister

Sirimavo Bandaranaike, was the first female prime minister of Sri Lanka, in 1960. Because of this Sri Lanka became the first country to ever have a female as its Prime Minister.

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People may ask

1. Where is Sri Lanka located?

Sri Lanka is situated in the Indian Ocean and is an island country, in South Asia. To be more precise it is located to the south of the Indian coastal border.

2. When is the ideal time to visit Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit Sri Lanka varies for different regions due to different climates of the country. You can read more about it in the above article but it is advised to not visit especially during monsoon season.

3. What are the recommended Tourist Places in Sri Lanka?

There are a lot of tourist places in Sri Lanka such as Columbo, Kandy, Sirigiya, Galle, Ella and many more.

4. Is it safe to visit Sri Lanka?

It was usually a safe place to travel but due to current political disputes, there is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks. So it is advised not to visit currently and if you do always carry travel and identification documents.

5. What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?

The country’s two official languages are Tamil in most areas and Sinhalese. English is also spoken in tourist places.

Bottom lines

From the article above, you would have realized why Sri Lanka is called “The Jewel of Indian Ocean”. It provides an incomparable blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical importance. Here you can enjoy colorful streets, delicious food and most importantly the warm hospitality of the locals. Along with all this the island flaunts flawless beaches, verdant rice fields and spiritual temples that provide a captivating setting for every tourist. This country promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime making you crave for visiting again.