Top 10 places in Sri Lanka
Top 10 places in Sri Lanka: a tiny paradise brimming with natural beauty. From fresh gardens to golden beaches and romantic mountain landscapes, this island is nothing short of magnificent. Offering a number of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
If you want to take a trip to some of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. Then you might just find it hard to leave. In the following article, we’ll cover ten of the most famous and most beautiful sights in Sri Lanka.
1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
First of the Top 10 places in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya, also known as the “lion’s rock,”. A rock fortress, palace, & an ancient kingdom all in one. It is a massive rocky mountain sitting majestically in the center of the countryside.
If you are traveling to Sri Lanka, this world heritage site is a must-visit location. Not only is it of significant archaeological importance, but it is quite tourist-friendly. Visitors will love climbing to the top of the fortress to take in the spectacular views. Most visitors claim they’ve never seen anything quite like Sigiriya’s lion claws, paintings, mirror wall, ancient pools, and gardens.
Sigiriya is located in the Mathale district near the town of Dambulla. There are plenty of facilities in and around the site to provide a comfortable and reliable experience.
2. Adam’s Peak
Adam’s Peak is an important pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka, and located on the fourth highest mountain in the country. During the pilgrimage season, which begins in December and runts until May. Thousands of people attempt the five-hour climb up the stairs to the top.
The area provides stellar views of the surrounding region, which is rich in biodiversity thanks to the four rivers that surround it. For those who love adventure, this hike provides opportunity to see one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world. As well as witness the devotion of the native Sri Lankans.
Access to Adam’s peak is possible thanks to six different trails: Hatton-Nallathanniya, Rathnapura-Palabaddala, Kuruwita- Erathna, Murraywatte, Mookuwatte, Malimboda. The most popular routes are the Hatton & Rathnapura due to the picturesque views they offer along the way.
3. Ella
One of the best ways to enjoy the abundant natural beauty of Sri Lanka is to take a trip to the region of Ella. Filled with greenery and kissed by cool, crisp weather, this is easily one of the happiest places in the country. Filled with greenery, flowers, tea estates, waterfalls (including Rawana falls, Diyaluma Falls etc). With the area around famous Ella Rock is truly breathtaking.
If you visit, be sure not to miss the famous nine arched bridge. If you’d choose, enjoy a journey from Kandy to Ella by train so you can truly see it all. Other adventures in Ella include taking a short hike up Little Adam’s Peak, or overnight camping trip in the region.
4. Arugambay Beach
Arugambay beach known as one of the best surfing destinations in the world, and lies some 320km east of Colombo. Located in the “dry zone” of Sri Lanka’s southeast coast, this wide, golden sand beach is an attraction all year round.
At Arugambay, you can enjoy a morning out sunbathing in the sea breeze or an evening waiting for the sun to set, or simply relax with a dish of fresh fish or prawns. As far as places to enjoy with friends and family at any time of the years, this is one of the best holiday spots in Sri Lanka.
5. Sinharaja Rain Forest
Sinharaja Rain Forest is a forest reserve & a biodiversity hotspot in southern Sri Lanka. It is considered the heart of the Sri Lankan ecosystem because it is home to many different endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, & mammals.
For those who love wildlife photography and exploring via foot, it is one of the most unique and beautiful places to visit in all of Sri Lanka. From the northern/western part of the country, you can reach the forests via Deniyaya.
6. Temple of the Tooth
The Temple of the Tooth is the crown of Sri Lanka, and located in the central highlands of the country. It is a paradise for the religious, arts & craft lovers, and history buffs from all over the world. The Temple also features stunning Kandian architecture and rich history.
Since ancient times, Sri Lankans have believed that the blessing of the sacred relics of ‘Lord Buddha’. And a single pilgrimage can bring great relaxation to the mind. In July, the festival of “Esala Perahera” is held at the Temple. During this period, the sacred Tooth Relic is brought out on a decorated elephant for all to worship.
Both Esala Perahera and the Temple of the Tooth site are integral parts of Sri Lankan tradition. Therefore must be seen by everyone at least a one-time within a lifetime.
7. Dunhinda Falls
Dunhinda Falls is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in of Sri Lanka, with a grand height of 63 km. Because it resembles the shape of a bride’s veil, the waterfall is also known as “Bridal Falls.” Tourists who visit Sri Lanka should not miss the opportunity to see this unique natural wonder. While experiencing the smoky, ivory mist created by the water.
The waterfall is located close to Badulla, on the Mahiyangana road. Altough the trip there is quite enchanting thanks to the wildlife and natural beauty of the area. However the site is usually quite busy, it remains incredibly popular with local and foreign tourists.
8. Yala National Park
Yala National Park offers visitors the best opportunity to witness the wildlife of Sri Lanka. It is located in the southeast region of the country, extending over both Southern Province and Uva Province. The park is famous for its jeep safaris, which can provide a range of experiences depending on the season.
In May-August, for example, there is a good chance of seeing elephants. As well as 31 other species of mammals many of them on global watch lists. If you want the opportunity to view and photograph wild animals from close quarters, Yala National Park is for you.
9. Anuradhapura
Anuradapura is the modern major city, as well as an ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Its ruins represent the glory of the preceding Sinhala civilization, and it remains a beautiful site that invokes a strong sense of calm and devotion.
There are many sacred places within the city that everyone should attempt to visit, including Ruwanweli Seya, Sri Maha Bodhiya, Abhayagiriya, Thuparamaya, Mirisawetiya, Samadhi Statue, and Kuttam Pokuna.
When traveling in Anuradhapura, you’ll witness the marvels of ancient engineering, stupas and reservoirs, magnificent rock carvings, Buddhist temples, glorious arts and crafts, and evidence of the agricultural prosperity in the past. All in all, this city is a must-visit location for tourists interested in the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
10. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnawala elephant orphanage is located in the village Pinnawala in the Kegalle district. Where it provides a much-needed lifeline to orphaned baby elephants and lost adults. Currently, it is home to over 100 elephants.
For tourists, Pinnawala is one of the best places to observe the behavior of these magnificent animals at different stages of their lives. One of the most popular activities here is watching the bottle feeding of the playful young elephants. Which is both touching and entertaining to witness.
These are few places in the world that are still as magical and wild as Sri Lana. For a holiday that you’re sure to remember forever. Plan your trip to Sri Lanka today and see some of Top 10 places in Sri Lanka.
