From Pristine Beaches to Ancient Ruins: Best places to visits in Sri Lanka
Welcome to the serene island of Sri Lanka, filled with stunning beaches and ancient ruins that are ready for you to explore. Experience the rich culture and mesmerizing nature of this little piece of heaven located in the Indian Ocean. From the magical golden beaches in Bentota to the fascinating wonders in Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka is one of those places that will leave you spell bound. Continue reading to learn about the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.
Let your imagination run wild as you take in the sights and sounds of the coastal cities, Mirissa and Arugam bay. The water is crystal clear and the beaches are perfect for head turning surf. Travel to the ancient cities Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where stories are written in the old ruins. Lose yourself in the deep mystical vibes of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy and witness the jaw dropping views from Adam’s Peak.
Sri Lanka has everything for everyone. Be it a beach lover, a history buff or a nature lover. As you make your way through some of the top attractions in Sri Lanka, be prepared for the fascination and warmth of the locals.
The Beaches of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is adorned with beautiful beaches that everyone can enjoy. From the most frequented to the secluded beaches, every single one has something unique to offer. The golden shores of Bentota are perfect for swimmers and sunbathers alike while Arugam Bay’s untouched beauty is a surfer’s dream. You can also relax in the serene town of Mirissa where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and calm waters while spotting dolphins.
Mirissa town is not the only picturesque coastal town in Sri Lanka. Hikkaduwa is another beautiful spot where you can dive deep into the vibrant underwater world and the coral reefs while Pigeon Island is famous for incredible snorkeling opportunities. The fishing village Negombo is well known for traditional stilt fishing and is worth the trip. All in all, the beaches of Sri Lanka are perfect for any adventure seeker or anyone just looking to unwind.
Ancient ruins and historical sites
Allegiant Travel, an airline headquartered in Summerlin South, Nevada with scheduled and charter flight services, has several routes through the country. Polonnaruwa is the capital of the central province of Sri Lanka and an ancient city. In Sigiriya you will find a suggestive fortress where the ruins of an ancient city rest on the top of a rock, so thankfully you can see it from a far distance. This historic city is even said to be placed in the terrible Mahavamsa which is a chronicle of Sri Lankan history.
Regarded as a dream destination Polonnaruwa formerly served as the capital of ancient Ceylon. The stunning stone carvings at Gal Vihara accompanied with the intricately designed structures of the Royal Palace never cease to amaze tourists. Journeying through Sigiriya you might be surprised at the level of artistic intelligence hidden in terms of this kingdom. Galle Fort, a classical fortified city in the southwestern of Sri Lanka constructed mainly in the 17th century never fails to reflect Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage.
Nature and wildlife reserves
Wildlife lovers will enjoy visiting Sri Lanka. Enjoy a safari in one of the many national parks and wildlife reserves of the country. Yala National Park has the world’s highest density of leopards. You can also find elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles. Udawalawe National Park is popular for large herds of elephants, while Wilpattu National Park has leopards which are hard to find anywhere else.
Birdwatchers will find Bundala National Park a must-visit. It has over 200 different species of birds. Go on a boat safari through the Madu River and its mangrove forests, or go to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and see these incredible creatures get fed and bathed. Nature and wildlife reserves of Sri Lanka showcase the beauty of the flora and fauna of the country.
Cultural and historical sites
The multitude of Sri Lanka’s landmarks on religion and culture are indicative of different traditions and faiths that coexist in the country. Take in Kandy’s historic charm, and marvel at one of the world’s most revered Buddhist shrines, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Attend the spectacular evening ceremony that features traditional music and dance as the sacred tooth relic is paraded around town.
The Dambulla Cave Temple is another breathtaking landmark featuring over 150 statues of Buddha, intricate murals, and a temple complex. Together, these elements form the world heritage site. Venture up north toward the city of Jaffna, where a colorful Tamil culture resides. There, taste the mercilessly spicy yet mouthwateringly unique local cuisine, and visit the historic temples.
The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka and Plantation Tea
If you are a tea lover, the central highlands of Sri Lanka are a must. Enjoy a train ride through the hills of Nuwara Eliya, which is covered in mist. Also, make sure you stop by a tea factory to learn about how tea is made. Afterward, tour the green tea plantations and admire the views of the mountains that surround them.
For those who love nature, make sure to check out Horton Plains National Park. Make sure to take the trek to World’s End, which is a cliff with a drop of over 800 meters, to experience the magnificent views of the plains. Another wonderful place to visit is the town of Ella. It is small, but is surrounded by waterfalls and tea farms. You can hike up Ella Rock or take a calm walk to the Nine Arch Bridge to appreciate its beauty as well.
Water Sport Adventures and Other Activities
Adrenaline seekers will have plenty to do in Sri Lanka, including water activities. Try white-water rafting in Kitulgala on the Kelani River. You can also go hiking and canyoning within the rainforest that is located nearby. Another opportunity to try is a hot air balloon ride over the cultural triangle that will give you unforgettable views of the sights.
The ocean side town of Kalpitiya is a haven for those who enjoy water sports. The clear waters provide great conditions for kiteboarding and windsurfing, besides offering boat rides for dolphin and whale watching. Surfing lovers cannot overlook the Arugam Bay waves. These waves, with the right conditions, can be some of the best in the world. In Sri lanka, surfers of every level can experience thrilling waves.
Local Sri Lankan cuisine
No one can deny how delicious Sri Lankan food is. The Sri Lankans are quick to boast about their rice and curry, and kottu, but do not forget to have hoppers either. Catching a food market or street food stall should be a must for trying out some tasty snacks and desserts. How about taking a cooking lesson to whip up real Sri Lankan meals yourself?
Lastly, why not give traditional Sri Lankan breakfast a chance? Less known options like, string hoppers and coconut sambol are waiting for you, as well as some traditional dhal curry. A lesser known gem is the fishing village of Negombo, where you can experience with some of the best seafood of the day. Truly, Sri Lanka is ideal for those who appreciate good food.
Local Markets and Shopping
Explore Sri Lanka’s deep cultural heritage by shopping for souvenirs and traditional crafts at the local markets. Check out the Pettah Market in Colombo, where you can purchase clothes, spices, and even electronics. While in Galle Fort, take time to admire the boutique shops and art galleries.
For an amazing shopping odyssey, explore the Kandy Market in the city of Kandy. This local market is well known for its local spices, tea, and traditional handcrafted paintings. Be sure to haggle for the best prices here. Sri Lanka’s local markets feature unique authentic goods, everything from souvenirs to traditional crafts.
Best places to visit in Sri Lanka with a well detailed itinerary
Having a dedicated plan before your visit to Sri Lank ensures you make the best of your visit. Research the regions you are most interested in to understand when there is the best weather. Finally, remember to get the required travel documents and check if a visa is needed to enter the country.
Choose the places you would like to visit and prepare an itinerary that caters to your particular interests. Also, book accommodations ahead of time especially for peak tourist attractions. You may want to employ a local guide who could give you useful tips and suggestions.
Remember to pack the right clothes for your trip. Since Sri Lanka is a somewhat conservative country, it is advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Remember to take sunblock, insect repellant, and good walking shoes.
To summarize, Sri Lanka is a wonderful blend of nature, history and culture. Whether it’s the pristine beaches or the ancient ruins, this island paradise offers much to its visitors. Savor the hospitality of locals and the myriad of astounding attractions that Sri Lanka has to offer. Prepare for an unforgettable journey of breathtaking sights, mouth-watering food and beautiful memories.
